Steinbach

Canadians took to parks and civic squares across the country Tuesday to show unity on Canada Day amid American threats, economic uncertainty and Western alienation.

"We've decided not to pull apart and fight, but to come together and to build. Because that's the Canadian way," Prime Minister Mark Carney said to thousands of Canadians gathered in Ottawa.

This year's festivities at Ottawa's LeBreton Flats Park got the royal treatment, with Prince Edward praising Canada's unity and accomplishments.

The Soccer Park in Steinbach hosted Canada Day celebrations starting at 5 pm. Fireworks were originally scheduled for 10:45 pm.  

Families enjoyed cupcakes, music, and games in the park, but smooth plans were interrupted by lightning and clouds covering the sky.  

Bouncy castles were taken down at 9 pm, when the first signs of lightning began.

Hanover Fire Department crews had a busy start to Canada Day, responding to three separate calls on Tuesday.

The first incident was reported at 10:45 a.m. on Road 33E, just north of Road 32N, where a baler had caught fire and flames began to spread to nearby hay swaths.

Fire Chief Paul Wiebe says crews responded quickly and were able to extinguish the equipment and field fire within the hour.

“There were no injuries,” Wiebe confirms.

Canada Day celebrations began in Steinbach at the Mennonite Heritage Village from 9 am – 5 pm and continue tonight at the Soccer Park with fireworks at 10:45 pm.   

The Mennonite Heritage Village started the day at 9 am with waffles and white sauce. The day continued with activities and demonstrations.   

This year, the Canadian Government launched their new Canada Strong Pass – an initiative offering free or discounted access to the country’s top natural and educational attractions. 

The pass makes exploring easier and more affordable, for families, youth, and visitors to explore the beautiful attractions of Canada.  

Funeral For:  Grace Holme nee Mantie 
Funeral Date: July 3, 2025 
Grace Holme nee Mantie, 82, of Grunthal passed away Saturday, June 28th at her residence. She is survived by 1 daughter, 2 sons, and their families. She was predeceased by her husband Wilfred. 
The funeral service for Grace Holme nee Mantie will be held Thursday, July 3rd at 11am at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Steinbach with burial at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery, PTH 12 south. 
Viewing will be at the church prior to the service.  

Funeral For:  Jacob Jake Peters 
Funeral Date: July 4, 2025 
Jacob Jake Peters, 95, of Killarney passed away Saturday, June 28th at Tri-Lake Health Centre. He is survived by 2 daughters, 1 son, and their families. He was predeceased by his wife Margaret. 
The funeral service for Jacob Jake Peters will be held Friday, July 4th at 11am at Lakeview Community Church, Killarney with burial at Killarney Cemetery. 
Viewing will be at Wheatland Chapel, Killarney Thursday, July 3rd from 7:30 to 9pm and at the church prior to the service. 

Parliamentarians likely will get a chance later this year to debate whether to adopt a livestock brand as an official national symbol.

A bill to create the brand was introduced earlier in June by Saskatchewan Conservative MP Steven Bonk.

If the bill passes, the brand will become Canada's 10th national symbol — joining O Canada, the coat of arms and the maple tree.

Here are five things you may not know about the official symbols that say "Canada."

1. The beaver does not stand alone

Samantha Sannella shed happy tears as she stood to sing the national anthem at her citizenship ceremony in early June, nearly three decades after she moved to Canada. 

She had sung "O Canada" countless times before, but this was the first time she’d done so as a Canadian. 

Originally from Houston, Texas, Sannella moved to Toronto 28 years ago for a job. For the longest time, she still considered herself a U.S. citizen, with a part of her thinking she might move back one day.

But that changed last fall.

A nearly sold-out crowd gathered at the Mennonite Heritage Village (MHV) for its 61st annual Gala on Friday evening, where warm memories, inspiring stories, and strong community support filled the room.