This week Portage la Prairie saw early morning blazes, a hockey all-star, and a return of winter weather to the region. Read below and find out all about this week's biggest news stories!
Central Plains’ Hailey Terrick named Forward of the Year
Hailey Terrick, a 14-year-old forward for the Central Plains Capitals U15 AAA team, has been named Manitoba U15 AAA Division’s Forward of the Year after an impressive season, scoring 74 points and leading in assists. Terrick’s strong performance is attributed to her speed, skill, and hockey IQ, and she hopes to continue her hockey career with aspirations of playing university hockey. Despite her success, she values teamwork and is excited about the future, including her upcoming playoff games.
Early morning blaze at 10th St. NW and 6th Ave.
A fire broke out early on Saturday, March 22, at a home on the corner of 10th St NW and 6th Avenue, with the Portage Fire Department responding at 6:58 a.m. The house was a total loss, but there were no injuries, and the home was unoccupied at the time. The Office of the Fire Commissioner is investigating, though no further details are available yet.
War-Displaced Ukrainians launch new ventures in Portage
Portage la Prairie has become a welcoming community for Ukrainian immigrants, especially as the ongoing war has brought even more to the area, with many newcomers, like Iryna Braun, finding support and opportunities to contribute. Braun highlights examples of Ukrainians who have started businesses, such as Inna Krupko, a former clothing designer who now offers custom dress designs, and Yulia Klymets, who is rebuilding her beauty salon services. The community’s support is also seen in cultural traditions, like the Ukrainian church's pierogi sales, which help sustain local connections and the economic growth of the area.
Step aside, Rubbermaid—there’s a new bin in town
Portage la Prairie is introducing a new waste management system led by MWM Environmental, which will provide residents with universal bins for curbside waste collection. The city plans extensive communication, including QR codes and a local office for inquiries, to ensure a smooth rollout starting August 1. While feedback has been mostly positive, officials are working to address residents' questions and concerns ahead of the transition.
Safety on gravel roads during Spring
As spring approaches, Garth Asham, Deputy Reeve of the Rural Municipality of Portage la Prairie, warns residents about the changing conditions of gravel roads due to melting snow and upcoming snowfall. While the roads have been in good condition, Asham advises drivers to adjust their speed and be cautious, as the weather may affect road stability. He also highlights ongoing provincial work on Highway 227 and the importance of staying informed about road conditions, especially for school buses and essential travel.
Shear excitement: PCI hairstyling program receives $26K grant
The Portage Collegiate Institute Hairstyling Program is expanding with a $26,612.43 grant to add five new hairstyling stations, providing more space for students to gain hands-on experience. The program has seen rapid growth, especially since introducing a Grade 9 program two years ago, and the expansion will allow it to accommodate more students and meet certification requirements. The new stations will offer an improved learning environment, enabling students to get the practical hours they need for licensing while preparing them for future careers in hairstyling.
MFNPS investigating a serious assault
A 37-year-old man from Long Plain First Nation has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including assault, forcible confinement, and weapons-related crimes, following an investigation into a disturbing case where an adult woman and a young girl were held and assaulted over several days. During the investigation, police seized methamphetamine, cash, and imitation firearms from the residence. The man remains in custody, facing numerous charges related to the incident.
Flash return to winter
The weather in the Central Plains rapidly changed on Thursday afternoon, with heavy snow falling after a brief period of spring-like weather, leading to a snowfall warning that was later lifted and adjusted. By Friday morning, a new warning was issued, with 2 to 4 cm expected in Portage la Prairie and heavier snow to the north, creating challenging travel conditions. The snow is expected to taper off through the morning, but roads and surfaces may remain hazardous.