Brittany Boschman

For the first time since 1977, Canada heard a speech from the throne delivered by its Monarch. Read by King Charles III this week, it marked a historic moment in Canadian political tradition.

While the ceremony drew on decades of royal ties and national symbolism, Conservative MP Branden Leslie of Portage–Lisgar says the moment must be matched with action and not just sentiment.

Speaking after the speech, Leslie acknowledged the importance of Canada's constitutional monarchy and the symbolism of unity it brings.

 The long-anticipated Koko Platz Community Rec Centre is nearing completion and excitement is building among both organizers and community members.

"We're starting to see some great progress," said Tanner Waldvogel, one of the directors for the KoKo Platz Community Club.

"They're starting to get some drywall up inside… it's starting to actually look like the hall we envisioned."

With just a few more months to go, the newly renovated space is nearly ready to open its doors to the public.

Jake Fretz, worship pastor at Prairie Alliance Church, is preparing for a transformative year in both his musical and pastoral journey.

Today, he will release his new single, "Feel Your Forgiveness," the first of six planned releases for 2025. The song dives into the powerful themes of grace and redemption, reflecting Fretz’s personal transformation. 

In rural communities, where farming is not just a livelihood but a way of life, mental health often remains a silent struggle. For many farmers, the stress of unpredictable weather, financial pressure, and isolation is compounded by a deeply ingrained culture that values self-reliance and hard work over seeking help. However, one former-farmer-turned-mental-health-advocate is working to break this silence and offer hope to those facing similar battles. 

In rural communities, where farming is not just a livelihood but a way of life, mental health often remains a silent struggle. For many farmers, the stress of unpredictable weather, financial pressure, and isolation is compounded by a deeply ingrained culture that values self-reliance and hard work over seeking help. However, one former-farmer-turned-mental-health-advocate is working to break this silence and offer hope to those facing similar battles.

In a heartfelt ceremony held on Monday October 28 at the Legislative Building, MacGregor Fire Chief Chris Leckie and 134 first responders were recognized for their bravery during a tragic incident in Carberry. The event celebrated the recipients of the Order of the Buffalo Hunt, a prestigious award acknowledging exceptional service and commitment.

Chief Leckie, who was notified by the Premier's office about the recognition, expressed pride in the collaborative efforts of all involved. 

As autumn settles in, stargazers across Canada are enjoying a spectacular celestial event: the Hunter's Moon, which started to rise on October 17. This year's Hunter's Moon is particularly noteworthy as it marks the third and closest Supermoon of 2023, promising an exceptionally bright and large appearance.

Brian Proctor, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, shared insights about the upcoming lunar event. 

Local actress 17-year-old Sophia Smoke, member of Dakota Plains Wahpeton First Nation is excited for her debut in Crave TV show, Don't Even. When talking to her, she shared what the show is about. 

"It's a show based in the '90's. I would call it a 'dramedy'. About two young Indigenous people who have just graduated high school and are just trying to figure out life," she continues. "We've got an insane ensemble cast and I think the giant group of characters really helps to create the feeling and the setting of the story."