Portage

As southeastern Manitobans gear up for the August long weekend, free provincial park entry and full campsites signal a busy few days ahead for nature lovers.

"People should get outside and enjoy our summers. They're short, so it's important to go explore and enjoy the great outdoors while we have the opportunity," says Elisabeth Ostrop, manager of recreation and education services with Manitoba Parks.

A sweet initiative is underway at Homestead Co-op this weekend, combining cupcakes and compassion to help animals in need.

Till August 3, Homestead Co-op is running a special fundraiser in support of the Portage Animal Welfare Society (PAWS). The promotion features a six-pack of vanilla cupcakes for just $5.00, with $1.00 from every sale donated directly to PAWS. Alongside the cupcakes, customers will also find displays of pet food, which can be purchased and donated on-site.

As folks in Portage and across the region gear up for the August long weekend, the forecast is calling for hot summer weather as we roll into the tail end of the season. But before you pack the cooler and hit the lake, there’s one more thing to consider: the smoke.

"It's going to be warm," says Crawford Luke, a meteorologist with Environment Canada. "We're not anticipating any heat warnings per se, but we should see temperatures in the mid to upper 20s."

Portage la Prairie residents are in for a treat this August long weekend, as a vibrant array of activities awaits both locally and within a reasonable drive.

From cultural celebrations and traditional gatherings to opportunities for community giving and educational exploration, there's something for everyone to enjoy from Friday, August 1, through Monday, August 4.

The move is part of the Canola Council of Canada's new strategic framework, 'Canola Forward: A Strategic Framework for 2025-2030.'

The news came in a press release announcing the new framework. Chris Davison, president & CEO, says the framework is focused on priorities identified by the Canadian canola industry and is aligned to help the industry seize emerging opportunities while navigating changing industry and trade dynamics.

What started as a small, heartfelt fundraiser 14 years ago has grown into a tradition spanning two provinces and a test of endurance unlike any other.

Marathon Monday began in 2012, shortly after Minnedosa Golf and Country Club’s general manager and head pro, Patrick Law’s mother, was diagnosed with cancer. Wanting to do something positive, he, along with longtime friend Dylan Thornborough, decided to golf “as much as humanly possible” in one day, collecting pledges to support cancer research along the way.

After years of planning, fundraising, and hard work, the Woodlands Rec Club saw its efforts pay off in a big way this past Saturday, July 26th, as the community’s newly upgraded ball diamonds hosted their first major event: a community slow-pitch tournament that brought the heat in more ways than one.

“It went well, especially considering how hot it was,” says Rec Club President Jeremy Fisher. “We had eight teams out, which is exactly what we were hoping for. Everyone had a great time, and we got a ton of compliments on the new fields.”

As the August long weekend approaches, the Province of Manitoba is warning beachgoers about elevated levels of Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria and harmful algae blooms at several popular beaches and reservoirs across the province.

Lindsey Jordan continues to add to her legacy at the Portage Golf Club, capturing her ninth consecutive Portage Ladies Open championship with a score of 80. Finishing close behind, Helen Rano took second place with an 85, while Brooke Henderson rounded out the top three with a score of 86.

The win brings her career total to 15 titles in the event since 2004.

Jordan says the feeling of winning never gets old, especially with such a competitive field.

THURSDAY, JULY 31ST

CFL
Ottawa 31 Calgary 11

FRIDAY, AUGUST 1ST

CFL
Toronto Argonauts at Winnipeg Blue Bombers - 7:30 PM

Canadian Elite Basketball League
Saskatchewan Rattlers at Winnipeg Sea Bears - 7:30 PM