Canada focusing on peace, energy security and new partnerships at G7 meeting: Carney

Canada has unveiled its priorities for the G7 leaders' summit just one week before it gets underway in Alberta as the government defends its decision to invite India to the summit.

Prime Minister Mark Carney's office says Ottawa's top priority for the summit will be strengthening global peace and security, which includes countering foreign interference and transnational crime, as well as improving responses to wildfires.

MLA Lauren Stone advocates for safer gym at Elm Creek

Midland MLA Lauren Stone recently raised concerns in the Manitoba Legislature about the need for a new gymnasium at Elm Creek School, citing overcrowding and safety issues.

She notes, “Physical education classes are overcrowded, and there is insufficient space for whole school assemblies and events.”

The current gym is aging and no longer meets the needs of the growing student population.

Security onsite, but concerns remain as contract deadline passes at Oak Tree Towers

Portage la Prairie MLA Jeff Bereza met with residents at Oak Tree Towers again on Thursday, and he explains the government has yet to provide lasting safety at Oak Tree Towers, despite major spending.

Security was still onsite at the apartment complex this past Thursday, but it's a day-by-day situation without any indication of what day it might end or continue.

"We come today to check to see because the security contract supposedly was over on the fourth of June. What a coincidence, right after the session closes," says Bereza.

Central Plains Sea Lions Swimmers ready for Canada Games debut 

Rob Pehura, head coach of the Central Plain Sea Lions, says his club is celebrating as two of its swimmers have secured spots on Team Manitoba for the upcoming Canada Games. 

"We got two on," he says. "Anika Dyck and Carson Pehura both made the team. It wasn’t even close. They weren’t inched in, they’re solid on that team." 

Pehura notes both athletes are the only rural swimmers outside the perimeter to qualify this year. 

BDO Centre celebrates 15 years of community resilience

The BDO Centre for the Community marks a significant milestone this year, celebrating 15 years since dedicated residents rallied to save the vital recreational hub from closure.

Originally facing shutdown when the Stride Place facility opened, the centre thrives today thanks to ongoing community support, key upgrades, and tireless volunteer efforts. The building itself boasts a much longer history, tracing back over 50 years.

North Norfolk Bull Bash rides high with packed stands and thrilling rides

The energy was electric at the North Norfolk Bull Bash last night as fans from across the region packed the stands to witness an evening of high-octane bull riding, community spirit, and rising stars in the sport.

"It was a packed house, outstanding athletes, two and four-legged," said Ben Kinkead, owner of Crossfire Bull Riding, who helped organize the event. "We had three really outstanding rides. The crowd was into it all night, packed house with a great atmosphere. So, we were very happy."

Portage and Dakota Plains win national award for reconciliation

The City of Portage la Prairie and Dakota Plains Wahpeton Nation are being recognized on the national stage for their work on reconciliation.

The two communities have received the 2025 Collaboration Award from the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA) for their June 2024 reconciliation ceremony and formal apology. The award was presented during CAMA’s national conference in Mont Tremblant, Quebec.

Portage Travel Club expands student horizons

Portage la Prairie students will keep exploring the globe thanks to a new community-led initiative.

Teachers Laura McMaster and JoEllen Sevcenko have co-founded the Portage Travel Club.

This move comes after the Portage School Division recently decided to stop approving international student trips, prompting the veteran educators to ensure these life-changing experiences remain available locally.

Why Travel Matters

McMaster passionately explains the club’s core purpose, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of student travel.