This week Portage saw speedskaters, hockey stars and students on patrol. A welcome distinction was also made, naming the city one of the friendliest prairie communities in the world! Keep reading and click the links to see more of this week's biggest news stories.
Students lead 'Paws on Patrol' at North Memorial School
Grade 6 students at North Memorial School are part of the Paws On Patrol program, a student-led initiative that helps younger peers resolve conflicts respectfully during recess and lunch. The program, originally called Conflict Managers, empowers older students to act as role models and guides in conflict resolution, fostering skills like respect and problem-solving. Recently, the program celebrated its first "graduation," and its impact is growing as students learn to manage disputes and promote empathy on the playground.
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A start in skating, a future in speed
Joel Simpson, originally from Portage, discovered speedskating after losing interest in hockey and trained in Winnipeg before moving to Calgary. His dedication paid off when he won gold in the 5,000-metre race at the Canada Cup Finals in Quebec City, boosting his confidence for Olympic trials. Now, he’s focused on qualifying for the Olympics and hopes to inspire more people to try the sport through his involvement in a local speedskating club.
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Grant breathes new life into museum's future
The Fort la Reine Museum in Manitoba has received a $65,000 grant from the City of Portage la Prairie, providing crucial financial support for staffing and operations as inflation increases costs. Executive Director Emma Ens-MacIver hopes to use this funding to expand outreach, secure additional long-term financing, and address volunteer shortages, ensuring the museum remains a vital community hub. Additionally, the museum is a finalist in the 2025 Next Great Save competition, aiming to win further funding for historic preservation.
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Local minor hockey prospect taking talents across the ocean
Portage's own Jack Klippenstein has earned another opportunity to compete in an elite hockey tournament in Italy after an impressive showing in Calgary. As the only Manitoban selected for the Western Canada team, he looks forward to the intense competition and unique experiences, including visits to prestigious motorsport museums. His dedication to training and past successes position him well for the high-level tournament, where many future NHL stars have played.
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Early morning blaze in MacGregor
A fire broke out early this morning in MacGregor, engulfing a detached garage, but swift action by fire crews prevented the flames from spreading to nearby homes. Fire Chief Chris Leckie confirmed that no injuries occurred and praised the efforts of responders, though the cause of the fire remains under investigation. Despite the garage being lost, the containment of the fire ensured minimal damage to surrounding structures.
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Portage gas prices lag behind what other cities see
Gasoline prices in Portage la Prairie have dropped to $1.36 per litre following a temporary pause on the consumer carbon tax, though prices as low as $1.16 in other cities have raised questions. Dan McTeague of Canadians for Affordable Energy explains that wholesale costs and hidden carbon taxes still impact fuel prices, and warns that the carbon tax may return in a different form after the next federal election. He highlights the potential economic benefits of sustained lower fuel prices but cautions against unsustainable pricing tactics.
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A Terriers journey and gratitude
Hockey player Parker Scherr has spent three years in Portage la Prairie, where the community's unwavering support shaped his experience with the Portage Terriers. While he reflects on the friendships and mentorships he’s built, he’s unsure if hockey will remain in his future, as he also has aspirations for a career in law enforcement. No matter his path, he and his family express deep gratitude to the town, the team, and his billet family for making Portage feel like home.
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City named among Canada’s friendliest prairie communities
Portage la Prairie has been recognized by World Atlas as one of the nine most welcoming prairie communities, a distinction celebrated by local leaders for its positive impact on tourism and economic growth. Mayor Sharilyn Knox, MLA Jeff Bereza, and Economic Development Executive Director Eve O’Leary emphasize the city's friendly reputation, local landmarks, and strong community spirit as key reasons for the accolade. Residents are encouraged to continue fostering a welcoming atmosphere to sustain the city’s appeal to visitors and future investments.