Jayme Giesbrecht

Morden's 15th Annual Multicultural Winter Fest is right around the corner, and this year promises to be the best yet. The festival, which takes place on Saturday, February 8th, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, will showcase six vibrant pavilions, each representing a different culture from around the world. This exciting event, which brings together both long-time residents and newcomers to the community, is an opportunity to celebrate diversity, enjoy free food and entertainment, and experience unique traditions.

Get ready for a heartwarming evening of homemade soup and pie in support of South Central Cancer Resource (SCCR). The fundraiser, scheduled for Thursday February 6th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at The Centre on Main in Plum Coulee, will not only raise funds but also increase awareness of the crucial services SCCR provides.

Central Station Community Centre, a hub of community support, is shedding light on poverty in the region through its Social Impact Report. The report, set to be unveiled Thursday February 6, presents a comprehensive picture of poverty—not just as a statistic but as a daily reality for many in the community.

Veteran broadcaster and agricultural journalist Harry Siemens is being recognized for his decades of dedication and service with the King Charles III Coronation Medal. The award, presented through the office of Senator Don Plett, acknowledges Siemens’ contributions to journalism and advocacy, particularly in the agricultural sector.

If you’ve spent any time in the Pembina Valley, chances are you’ve heard Kathy Blatz before you’ve even met her. Her laugh is unmistakable—full, contagious, and capable of lighting up an entire room. It’s a sound that turns heads, not just because it’s joyful, but because it reminds everyone in earshot how good it feels to let loose and laugh.

The Morden Chamber of Commerce Business Awards banquet took place Thursday, January 30th, and were a celebration of excellence, community spirit, and dedication to local businesses. With 190 attendees representing 45 businesses, the evening highlighted remarkable achievements that contribute to the growth and success of Morden.

A thriving film community is emerging in the Pembina Valley, and at its heart is the Pembina Valley Film Makers Forum. What started as a small group of aspiring filmmakers scouting locations for short films has evolved into a collective of diverse talents—including seasoned professionals, theater actors, and enthusiastic newcomers—all working together to create cinematic art.

Winkler’s former mayor, Neil Schmidt, is among great company, as he has been named one of the recipients of the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal, a recognition of his lifetime of contributions to his community and beyond. This honour reflects his leadership, humility, and continuous efforts to give back to the community that shaped his life.

This award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to Canada, and for Schmidt, the recognition comes as a surprise. "It's very humbling to know that I was awarded," Schmidt says. "I was really surprised."

The South Central Regional Library is ringing in a major milestone—60 years of service to the community. And what better way to celebrate than with a little friendly competition? Shirley Wolfe, a longtime staff member at the Winkler branch shares details about a Crokinole Tournament, set for February 1st.

January 1st is New Year’s Day—or is it? While the Western calendar kicks off the year with fireworks and resolutions, for millions around the world, the real celebration is yet to come. Chinese New Year, rooted in the rhythms of the moon, begins on January 29th this year, marking the start of the year of the Snake. With vibrant traditions, delicious feasts, and a rich tapestry of cultural symbols, it’s a celebration unlike any other.