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When Sajda Siemens’ daughter entered 9th grade, she realized there was limited support outside of the classroom to help students succeed.

“I really struggled to help my daughter with some of the more complex subjects that she was working on,” Siemens said. “I knew firsthand that there weren’t any services in the area to support parents like me and I also knew from many of my friends that their children were really struggling, especially in the last few years.”

It's a name that has been known for decades in Portage and the surrounding area. A name people have trusted for more than 40 years. It's Laramee Enterprises and Rentals and they have now added another name that people have come to trust. Stihl.

Jordan Laramee says that Portage and area have been great to them.

Not long ago I read a book called Walking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and Redemption by Vaneetha Randall Reisner. Vaneetha suffered much from a debilitating disease, loss of babies including an infant son, and her husband was unfaithful to her and left her. Incredibly she writes, “I no longer contrast joy with sorrow because I found they can coexist. It is purposelessness not sorrow that squelches joy. When we begin to understand God‘s purpose– begin to glimpse him working for good – we can experience true joy even inside our story.”

It says a lot when award-winning athletics is one of numerous activities in which a high school student is involved. The on-court talent is a given, but it also speaks to energy, dedication and a heart for people in the community. 

Peyton Kehler, the Providence University College High School Student-Athlete of the Month for May 2023, has a lot going on. Her Grade 11 exams will shortly round out a period she admits has been “chaotic.” But you get the feeling she wouldn’t have it any other way. 

“For years, it’s been my mother’s dream to be able to do this.” 

Nick Lanteigne, Sales Manager at GNM Fine Jewellers, is referring to his mother Amanda Lanteigne, President and Chief Operating Officer of the boutique.  

With their store’s recent move out of Clearspring Centre and into the very centre of Steinbach, he reveals some of the feedback they’re getting from shoppers.  

“A lot of people say our store looks and feels so much bigger now. And that's exactly what we've always wanted to do. It’s a move that’s been years in the making.” 

Summer in the City kicks off this Friday afternoon, and to be perfectly honest, many people may have trouble focusing on work.  

Audrey Harder is the Board Chair of Summer in the City, and she has a helpful suggestion:  

“Just call it quits early on Friday and head to the patio with your staff and have a party there!” 

Located in front of the SCU Main Stage, the Summer in the City Patio Party is a fully licensed, family-friendly afternoon destination with free admission.  

"You can expect understanding, confidentiality, and honesty."

Jennifer Chopp is the owner of Spot On Aesthetic Laser in Portage la Prairie, where she’s passionate about caring for the people within her community. 

"Most of our client concerns are ones I’ve personally faced, so I love showing them how far my treatments have come along, and be living proof that these treatments are highly effective."

Lindsay Penner is bright, joyful, with an infectious laugh. Yet at the same time her presence is soothing, relaxing. It all makes so much sense when you consider her shop, Muscle Matters and Body Care. 

“We’re in the Shoppers Plaza Mall next to Solomon’s Furniture,” explains Penner. “I wanted to keep our atmosphere quiet, private, and serene, so we just have a little door between Bake World and Jacob's Locksmithing.” 

Summer in the City will be here before we know it, and Sports in the City is back and better than ever! Organizers are getting ready for the return of Hockey in the City, and are preparing to welcome something new to the festival – adult co-ed beach volleyball!  

Jamie Roy is hosting Hockey in the City again this year. He says it’s a popular sport that gets kids active and having fun. 

The best way to start summer in the Southeast is back this weekend with the Niverville Fair!

In the days, weeks, and even months leading up to the big weekend, excitement is building in the community. As kickoff fast approaches, General Manager Dustin Krahn is feeling good.

“We've done this a few times so we know how it goes, we’re busy behind the scenes getting things rolling, and everything’s on track and falling into place. Once the gates open, we start feeding off the crowd, they all come in excited.”