PembinaValley

Dozens of people lined up Thursday night to air opposition to and support for Manitoba's plan to add gender expression to the human rights code — a move that would include protections for people to be called by their preferred pronouns.

Derek deVries, pastor at Park City Gospel Church in Winnipeg, said the NDP government's bill would force Christians to go against their beliefs.

"This (proposed) law forbids Christians from following Christ's example. It requires speech he would not permit," deVries told a legislature committee.

It was an evening of elegance and celebration last night as the Altona & District Chamber of Commerce shone a spotlight on a group of local businesses, business owners and organizations making a difference in the community. Four such entities were presented with the Chamber's annual awards at the gala event, held at the Rhineland Pioneer Centre.

Winkler's own Kam Thomas wanted to be a Flyer and when he got his chance, full time, he didn't let it slip as he won the hearts of fans and the trust of coaches throughout a very strong rookie season in the MJHL.

"It was awesome," Thomas says with his trademark energy and enthusiasm. "Great group of guys this year, I had a really, really good time with them. It was just cool to have my first full season with the Winkler Flyers."

The African Children’s Choir is bringing its vibrant message of music and hope to Winkler and Altona this weekend with a special concert at Winkler Mennonite Church on Friday, April 25 and at Altona EMMC on Sunday, April 27.  The performance is free to attend, with an opportunity for audience members to support the organization through a love offering.

Dementia can cause confusion and discomfort for anyone experiencing or witnessing the condition, but a supportive community can help.  

Minds in Motion, which begins on April 30th, is an 8-week program that can not only help promote mind wellness but also foster an environment of acceptance and positivity to build a supportive dementia community. 

A beloved face in Miami’s emergency services community has been recognized in a big way. Larry Mansell, who served as Fire Chief of the Miami Fire and Rescue Department for 49 years, was recently honoured as a Community Hero during a Winnipeg Jets home game.

The surprise came thanks to a heartfelt nomination submitted by his son, celebrating a lifetime of service that left a lasting mark on the small southern Manitoba town.

The Pembina Climate Action Network (PCAN) is inviting families and residents to the 2025 Sustainability Fair and Morden Thrift Store Fashion Show on Saturday, April 26th, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at St. Paul's United Church in Morden.

This free, family-friendly event celebrates with activities, education, and a unique fashion show, all focused on encouraging sustainable living practices in the Pembina Valley.

Manitoba's energy regulator has approved higher natural gas prices.

The Public Utilities Board says rates for a typical residential customer will rise 12.4 per cent, or about $73 a year, starting May 1.

The board says the increase is due to several market factors, including reduced natural gas storage levels in North America following a colder winter.

Higher demand for liquefied natural gas was also cited.

Gas rates are reviewed regularly and the next review is slated for August. 

The Winnipeg Jets suffered a lopsided 7-2 defeat in St. Louis on Thursday night, as the Blues rode early pressure and a playoff hat trick from Pavel Buchnevich to claw back into the series.

The loss trims Winnipeg’s series lead to 2-1 heading into Game 4 on Sunday.

Buchnevich shines, Blues dominate from the start

Heading into the game, the Jets were well aware of the challenge ahead. Mark Scheifele had said earlier in the week that playing in St. Louis’ building would be a difficult test, and he was proven right in emphatic fashion.

Party leaders emphasized familiar themes Thursday as they criss-crossed the country to shore up support in the final stretch of the federal election campaign.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre began Thursday in Halifax — where he pitched a promise of change for Canadians struggling to afford life's essentials — before heading to Saskatoon.

In Coquitlam, B.C., Liberal Leader Mark Carney spoke about bringing Canadians together to build up the country to fight U.S. President Donald Trump's trade war.