Who is Wally Daudrich?
Dorothy Dobbie
Wally Daudrich is a new name you are no doubt hearing about. No matter what your political affiliation, it matters who becomes the next leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba as this person will be in line to become premier one day.
I have known Wally and Dawn Daudrich and their five kids for more than a decade and have come to love and respect this wonderful family who epitomize the pioneer spirit that made Manitoba great.
Wally was born in the west end, south of Portage on Dominion Street. He went to school at Gordon Bell, graduating from Daniel McIntyre and then moving to Churchill, following his ancestral family tradition of fascination with life in the north. To make a living in Churchill, Wally took whatever jobs he could get, among other things, as a tour guide, his introduction to tourism. Being a natural entrepreneur, in his spare time, he built a little log takeout chip shop. This core building is still part of his iconic lodge in the town of Churchill. And he and Dawn did it through sheer creative imagination, grit and determination.
There had been a forest fire in the nearby boreal forest. The logs were just lying there, bark conveniently burned off. Somewhere in his past, Wally had learned how to
Celebrating 15 years of CentrePort Canada adding billions to Manitoba’s GDP
Carly Edmundson
Since its creation in 2009, CentrePort Canada has shown that bold ideas can create new and exciting realities. It’s been the catalyst for the transformation of empty fields into sold-out industrial parks, connected to world class infrastructure. It is proof that a strategic approach to ‘if you build it, they will come’ can create decades of opportunity for
our province and our country, and that if we work together as a community, we can create something impactful.
The milestones of CentrePort Canada
• 2008: The Government of Manitoba passed the CentrePort Canada Act, with unanimous support, designating the boundaries of the inland port and creating CentrePort Canada Inc., the corporation.
• 2013: CentrePort Canada Way officially opened. This ex-
PORTAGE
PRAIRIE
Imagine hearing your 89-year-old mother say, “I think I just want to go to sleep and not wake up.” That heart shattering scenario was a reality after one family went up against healthcare red tape.
Last week, I met with a senior in Portage la Prairie who has been in the hospital waiting for an MRI at Boundary Trails in Winkler. On the first day she was to go to Boundary Trails by ambulance, she was awakened and dressed at 5:30 a.m. and left in a wheelchair to wait. At noon they came and told her she would not be going that day as there was no ambulance or stretcher service to take her.
This happened twice more until the family finally lost patience and asked if there was an alternative to get her down to Boundary Trails. They were told they could take her themselves. This woman, who is suffering from congestive heart failure, on oxygen, and weighs 88 pounds, was expected to be transported over an hour down a two-lane highway in the winter by
Jeff Bereza
Celebrating
years of CentrePort Canada: Carly Edmundson.
hospital in Portage la Prairie.
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Ron Arnst, Jerry Bereza, Lori Blande, Dr. Romie Dhaliwal, Romel Dhalla, Dorothy Dobbie, Shauna Dobbie, Carly Edmundson, Stefano Grande, Jim Ingebrigtsen, Kevin Klein, Ian Leatt, Myron Love, Fred Morris, Doyle Piwniuk, Seneka Samarasinghe, Trudy Schroeder, Wayne Weedon.
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Ending homelessness will take more than money
Recently the province announced a program to end homelessness in Manitoba. The funding is part of the federal initiative, Reaching Home, Canada’s Homelessness Strategy, announced last September. This followed a well-publicized trip to Houston by the Mayor to study their solutions. I am glad to see these efforts, and I applaud the province and the city for taking this on. However, knowing how to do things, not just money, is what it takes to reach solutions. St. Boniface Street Links is showing us how.
I have been thinking and worrying about homelessness for about 10 years now, ever since Stefano Grande was the CEO of the Downtown Biz and used to hold those overnight sleep outs so executives could get a feeling of what homelessness is like. I took part a few times, but one event particularly stands out in my mind. That was when a group of us had a chance to visit the Main Street Project. It was still in the old pickle factory on Martha Street. It was late evening on a cool fall day. About a dozen of us trooped gaily down Main Street to the shelter from our campout at the corner of Portage and Main. We were unprepared to see the room full of people sleeping, or trying to sleep, on mattresses, butted up back-toback across the factory floor, with barely a foot of space between them and no place to put personal belongings – many used their bags as pillows.
I won’t go into the details, but I was emotionally shaken by the inhumanity of it all and even sadder to learn that these were the lucky ones. When things got really cold the requests were so many that some had to be turned away. “But there is hope,” said the then executive director who everyone seemed to respect. She had a long-term plan for better space and more permanent housing.
Fast forward to today. That positive individual is no longer there, and things do not appear much improved, despite new space in the old Mitchell Fabrics building replacing the former factory. (Both buildings are now under renovation.)
Thanks to government funding, the budget has grown to almost $13 million annually, but not for housing. Almost $10 million of that goes to support the staff members to deliver services.
Contrast this with the small, privately run agency across the river. St. Boniface Street Links has a tiny $2 million budget, very little of it from government. About the time I started thinking about the dilemma a decade ago, Marion Willis started St. Boniface Street Links after befriending Faron Hall, a homeless man who despite his addiction, on two separate occasions pulled people from the river to save them from drowning. Ironically, Faron himself died of drowning unable to resolve his addiction.
In 2016, Marion opened Morberg House, a 12-bed home where folks can live through their recovery and gain the strength to improve their lives. Most move on to permanent housing or to their communities. Marion is totally focused on her mission. She has assembled a team of students and formerly addicted folks who join her workforce as part of their recovery, and instead of a top-heavy system that slows down service delivery, her team just digs in, spending much of its time going to the camps and getting to know the people in them. Then when housing is found and it is time to move, they are talking with friends.
The camp dwellers are not forced to move, but Marion says that very few refuse and of those who accept the offer of housing, 80% remain in their new homes, grateful to be off the street. “Getting people out of survival mode takes lots of hand holding,” says Marion, but the secret is in working together, creating a sense of teamwork, of family, letting folks know that someone cares enough to help them tidy up the new room. “It is about giving a hand up, not a handout,” says Marion. As you help people emerge from hopelessness, you must help them develop a sense of responsibility. Adding that extra little bit of human caring goes a long way.
The government says it has housed 1,200 people at a cost of $37 million. Marion and her team have housed 1,500 over the past few years with very little funding but a solid team of philanthropists, supporters, volunteers and community partners, including students from the Winnipeg campus of the University of Brandon.
In 2021, the city finally formally recognized their efforts, making Street Links the agency of record for homelessness on the east side of the Red River. “The greatest milestone of all is actually to receive funding from the City of Winnipeg to deliver a fully funded outreach effort to all neighbourhoods east of the Red,” Marion said at the time.
“We have housed more people than all the other programs in the city combined,” she notes quietly.
Despite the lack of sustaining funding, Street Links continues to grow its services. Last year it began offering drug-free transitional housing at 259 Fountain St. for people leaving the organization's temporary beds on St. Mary’s Road.
To the city and the province, congratulations again for doing more to end homelessness. They get as “A” for effort, but if something works, it works. The province and the city would be well advised to bring Marion and Street Links into their planning circle. If they did that, think what they could accomplish with all the money they have?
Dorothy Dobbie
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The case for Jordan Peterson’s right to free expression
Several years ago, I came across an interview between this fellow Jordan Peterson and a British journalist. She was attacking his ideas, and he answered her in measured, rational terms. I shared the clip with my son-in-low whose intelligence I respect and instead of an interested response I got an earful about what a terrible person Jordan Peterson is. I started taking an interest. Did I miss something? Was I wrong? I listened to more interviews and found nothing to change my mind.
Today, I went back to the Internet determined to discover why this man, a psychologist and a bit of a philosopher, is so reviled. Indeed, I asked that very question. Crickets, except for the opinions posted on Reddit which I can’t even bother to read. Yet, without answering that question there are plenty of opinions about what a right wing, radical scoundrel he is.
After some heavy digging I found isolated quotes supposedly proving the theory that he is a right-wing madman. Here is a favourite: “The idea that women were oppressed throughout history is an appalling theory.”
decriminalization of drugs.”
It goes on to say that, “In junior high school, Peterson became friends with Rachel Notley and her family. Notley became leader of the Alberta New Democratic Party and the 17th premier of Alberta. Peterson was a member of the New Democratic Party (NDP) from ages 13 to 18.”
While he may have overstated the issue, history highlights the achievements of many female leaders: Cleopatra, Queen Boadicea, various British and other European queens and many female leaders in modern times. About 65 percent of UN member countries have been led by women and at the end of 2024, there were some 29 countries with a woman at the helm. There have been many matriarchies, in Asia and the middle East, Africa, Costa Rica, China . . . Women dominate in their own way, necessarily, since their primary function in maintaining the human race is procreation and as caregivers.
It appears that the main reason Jordan Peterson is so controversial is that he is not afraid to take on some of the outrageous declarations of the “enlightened” population of today.
As a result of this, the Complaints and Reports Committee of the College of Psychologists of Ontario investigated statements he made online which were alleged to be "transphobic, sexist, racist". Again, these judgements are made in the context of the “politically correct” climate of the day and as such were not measured against truth but only opinion. Nevertheless, he was forced to attend a social media training program or risk losing his license to practice.
Ironically, Wikipedia states that, “Peterson has characterized himself politically as a classical liberal and as a traditionalist. He has stated that he is commonly mistaken as rightwing, stating that he supports universal healthcare, redistribution of wealth towards the poor, and the
The controversial Jordan Peterson
Jordan Peterson is a figure almost tailor-made for polarization. To some, he is a hero of free speech and personal responsibility; to others, he represents a troubling regression to outdated ideas cloaked in intellectualism. The truth likely lies somewhere in between. While his fame stems from his charisma and provocative ideas, his rhetoric can often be divisive, misleading, and harmful.
Dobbie vs Dobbie
Some of the claims against him have themselves been more outrageous than anything he has personally said. In October 2024, Justin Trudeau said, under oath, that Peterson was funded by a Russian state-owned media outlet. In response, Peterson said he was considering legal action. “I don’t think it’s reasonable for the prime minister of the country to basically label me a traitor and I don’t find it amusing,” said Peterson. He said it was especially galling to be accused of taking Russian money, because he has been sounding the alarm about foreign interference in the North American political discourse.
Jordan Peterson has written several books espousing his philosophies. One of these, 12 Rules of Life, argues for the merits of a more conservative view of the world. The one following this, Beyond Order, presents the merits of a more liberal view.
Here are the chapter titles from his 12 Rules book. Does look too far right or left? You tell me.
1. “Do not carelessly denigrate social institutions or creative achievement.”
2. “Imagine who you could be and then aim single-mindedly at that.”
3. “Do not hide unwanted things in the fog.”
4. “Notice that opportunity lurks where responsibility has been abdicated.”
5. “Do not do what you hate.”
6. “Abandon ideology.”
7. “Work as hard as you possibly can on at least one thing and see what happens.”
8. “Try to make one room in your home as beautiful as possible.”
9. “If old memories still upset you, write them down carefully and completely.”
10. “Plan and work diligently to maintain the romance in your relationship.”
11. “Do not allow yourself to become resentful, deceitful, or arrogant.”
12. “ Be grateful in spite of your suffering.”
Why do they hate him? Maybe because he tells the subjective truth as he sees it and as the current “enlightened” prefer to ignore.
Peterson’s rise to prominence in 2016 centred on his opposition to Canada’s Bill C-16, which catapulted him into the public consciousness. He claimed the bill’s protection of gender identity and expression would compel speech and infringe on free speech rights. Legal experts widely disagreed. Bill C-16 prohibits discrimination by employers, landlords, and service providers based on gender identity or expression and protects against hate propaganda and hate crimes targeting transgender individuals. It does not compel speech.
“traditional values” and social hierarchies, which he argues are rooted in biological truths. He draws on evolutionary psychology and mythology – methods more suited to academia than public debate – to justify his arguments about gender roles and social structures. However, his tendency to cherry-pick data and oversimplify complex issues undermines his intellectual credibility. His critiques of feminism, “postmodern neo-Marxism,” and the perceived emasculation of men have drawn criticism for promoting reactionary ideas. While these topics may deserve serious debate, Peterson’s approach often overshadows their merit with divisive rhetoric.
While Peterson’s initial concerns about free speech may have stemmed from a genuine philosophical debate, his framing of the issue misrepresented the bill’s intent and inflamed cultural anxieties. Misgendering someone, even intentionally, is worlds apart from hate speech, yet his rhetoric stoked fears about "political correctness" in ways that undermined the dignity of marginalized groups, particularly transgender people.
His behaviour on social media has been even more controversial. A particularly infamous tweet referred to actor Elliot Page, misgendering him and describing his physician as “criminal” for performing gender-affirming surgery. While the statement was inflammatory, it doesn’t meet the legal definition of hate speech, as it wasn’t directed at an identifiable group with the intent to incite hatred. However, it was tasteless and untruthful, especially as Peterson knew the claim about the physician was baseless. When Twitter asked him to delete the tweet, he refused, leading to the suspension of his account. The resulting uproar became a tempest in a teapot, fueled by both Peterson and his critics. Sometimes, ignoring inflammatory remarks is the best course of action to avoid amplifying them.
Peterson frequently advocates for
As an academic, Peterson’s work has been respectable but not groundbreaking. His first book, Maps of Meaning: The Architecture of Belief, explored how people construct meaning through mythology and narrative. While it garnered some respect in academic circles, it was never intended for widespread influence. His pivot from scholarly work to public intellectualism has drawn criticism for diluting complex ideas to cater to a broader audience, often sacrificing nuance and accuracy.
Peterson’s personal struggles – his battle with benzodiazepine dependency and his controversial medical treatment in Russia, combined with his extreme dietary habits (he ate only beef for a year!) – have complicated his public image. While these challenges humanize him, they also expose an inability to follow his own principles of order and personal responsibility.
His most recent book, We Who Wrestle with God, reflects a deeper focus on themes of struggle and redemption, likely informed by his personal battles. It suggests a more human and empathetic side to Peterson, but whether this will extend to his critics or marginalized groups remains to be seen. His belief in finding meaning through suffering remains central to his philosophy, even as his polarizing nature endures.
In the end, Jordan Peterson’s impact is undeniable. To his detractors, he is not a champion of free thought, he’s a purveyor of regressive ideas that reinforce harmful hierarchies. His rhetoric often alienates the very people he claims to want to help, and his intellectual credibility continues to be questioned by experts in the fields he discusses.
As for me? He’s someone I often disagree with. He makes for a compelling foil on panels discussing political trends, but I doubt we’d ever be friends. He’s just too cantankerous.
Dorothy Dobbie
Shauna Dobbie
Gillingham’s City Hall under fire - secrecy, overspending, and broken promises
City Hall’s culture of secrecy has once again been exposed, this time with the resignation of Councillor Sherri Rollins from Mayor Gillingham’s Executive Policy Committee (EPC). Rollins claimed the mayor’s office is withholding information, a complaint that echoes what many councillors have already voiced. Councillor Brian Mayes has been a frequent critic of this administration’s lack of transparency, often forced to resort to Freedom of Information requests to obtain basic reports. Rollins’ resignation is another glaring example of the dysfunction and secrecy plaguing Gillingham’s administration.
Gillingham’s administration is floundering. It began its term by removing a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) that Gillingham himself voted to hire. A key financial officer also decided to leave her position under this administration’s watch. Not to mention, we still have no new police chief despite the mayor knowing of the former chief’s retirement date for over a year. Meanwhile, Gillingham has introduced the highest property tax increase in decades while claiming the city faces serious financial woes. He has even drained the legislated “Rainy Day Fund.” Yet, it makes big press announcements about the millions of dollars that continue to flow to his friends in the arts community. Where is the accountability?
acquiring the land in question, including through potential appropriation. Why is the mayor holding closed-door meetings on matters of public interest? Where was the area councillor? More importantly, where were the members of the committee that would be required to make the decision, or at least the political spin would suggest the committee would need to approve any type of deal. This kind of backroom dealing only fuels mistrust.
Kevin Klein
The recent budget revealed yet another failure of this administration to exercise spending control. It was a spend-happy budget built on the backs of taxpayers, with no effort to prioritize or manage costs responsibly. Gillingham’s administration even spent taxpayer dollars on a ridiculous poll designed as political spin to justify his broken campaign promises and the record property tax increase. Instead of addressing Winnipeg’s financial challenges with meaningful solutions, they chose to rely on empty rhetoric and wasteful spending that you and I will pay for through higher taxes, our homes assessed value, and out-of-control fees.
ability, and councillors outside the mayor’s inner circle are left in the dark. Gillingham’s claim, following Rollins’ resignation, that he looks forward to working with her as he does with all council members rings hollow and is a typical political response made for only the media. Many councillors have openly criticized his administration. Mayes has publicly opposed the push for four-plexes throughout the city, asking for more details – details the mayor has yet to provide. Mayes had to resort to filing a Freedom of Information request to do the job he was elected to do. This is unacceptable.
The Winnipeg Sun itself has faced the same stonewalling. Our requests for information from the mayor’s office have been ignored. Emails have gone unanswered, and questions have been disregarded. This is not how democracy is supposed to work.
Now, let’s consider the ongoing Parker Lands debacle. Gillingham touted record housing permits issued under his watch, yet these numbers included developments like Parker Lands that haven’t even materialized. Housing starts remain abysmally low under his watch, and the city’s permit revenue has dropped significantly, in the millions, compared to previous years. This administration’s narrative does not align with reality.
The secrecy surrounding city business extends to the contentious Lemay Forest issue. At a recent Property and Planning meeting, it was revealed that the city’s Planning Director met privately with Gillingham to discuss
TURTLE MOUNTAIN
The lack of transparency extends beyond the mayor’s office. The Winnipeg Police Board, chaired by Councillor Markus Chambers, recently stated publicly that they sought outside legal opinions regarding the hiring of a new police chief. Councillors have repeatedly asked for information about the search process, only to be ignored. To find out through media reports that the board is seeking legal advice raises serious questions. Why does the board need a lawyer to confirm it followed the proper hiring process? Shouldn’t these considerations have been addressed before the search began? Is there a looming lawsuit? Did the board make an offer without the council’s approval, only to realize—after the Winnipeg Sun exclusive story suggesting scrutiny of the candidate—that they might have made a mistake?
Secrecy is at the root of all these issues. It creates an environment where decisions are made without account-
Kudos to Pilot Mound, the little community that could
Irecently had the pleasure of joining the competitors in Pilot Mound at the RME Women of the Rings (formerly the Scotties Tournament of Hearts). It was, as always, a great experience. This year sparked the first time that the competition was held in a community as small as Pilot Mound, but anyone who has ever been there will be able to tell you that Pilot Mound punched far about their weight class. The community of Pilot Mound and Crystal City provided over 140 local volunteers for the five-day event in rural Manitoba.
skilled bricklayer. Gradually, the building took shape and grew into an arena from the shell that was erected for Hydro.
Doyle Piwniuk News from Turtle Mountain
The organizing committee knocked it out of the park with a small army of volunteers who ensured that everything was running smoothly. Again, this is nothing of a surprise when you consider the history of the arena where this competition was held.
At the time the Millennium Recreation Complex was opened in 2010, it was valued at around $11 million, but the community paid only $3.5 million – not raised through some form of grants or lucky sales, but through grit and determination and a town coming together to do the job themselves.
The arena itself was purchased in auction from Manitoba Hydro as it started its life as a temporary structure for workers at the Limestone Dam and generating station. It was dismantled and transported south from Gillam by volunteers who then worked over a decade alongside a
The majority of the funding also came directly from the community. Over 80% of the associated costs were fundraised. That is the Manitoba spirit in action – a community coming together to say that “united we can accomplish anything”. It was an absolute joy to join the competitors from around Manitoba in Pilot Mound, because everyone should get to see what can be accomplished when a community refuses to take no and refuses to accept that something cannot be done.
The community of Pilot Mound has also established the Pilot Mound Hockey Academy which brings in many young hockey players across Canada and the US to attend their local high school and play high level hockey. This also creates additional jobs in the area, including teachers, administration jobs, and local service industry positions in the community. PMHA is your world class academic and hockey training facility created to maximize each student’s athletic and academic potential. The academy prepares four competitive hockey teams (including one female team) in a smalltown setting. Well trained players become successful by embracing the physical and mental preparation necessary in all aspects of life.
Doyle Piwniuk is the MLA for Turtle Mountain.
What does this say about the councillors who continue to support Gillingham—Evan Duncan, Janice Lukes, Jeff Browaty, and Vivian Santos? Their unwavering loyalty enables this culture of secrecy. Why won’t they stand up for the rights of all elected officials to access information? Is it the allure of extra pay, prestige, or political recognition? Lukes, Browaty, and Chambers endorsed Gillingham during his campaign, praising his ability to work with council members. Duncan’s campaign echoed similar sentiments, even hiring Gillingham’s former assistant. These councillors must be held accountable for perpetuating this secrecy.
Secrecy destroys democracy. It allows corruption to fester and erodes public trust. Meetings behind closed doors breed corruption, as decisions are made without scrutiny and without accountability. When elected officials are kept in the dark, they cannot represent their constituents effectively. The people of Winnipeg deserve transparency and honesty, not a government that operates in the shadows.
The next time you vote, remember this: secrecy is the enemy of democracy. Demand candidates who vow to end backroom politics and offer full transparency. Insist that they pledge to resign if they fail to deliver on this promise. Anything less is a betrayal of the public’s trust.
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What will it take to get the NDP Government to agree to install an MRI at the new Portage Hospital?
Continued from page 1
untrained family members.
Sadly, I hear from many seniors who are falling through the same cracks because of our NDP-run healthcare system. They are simply not being heard.
Our community is trying to help by adding diagnostic services closer to home. The Portage District General Hospital Foundation has generously pledged $5 million dollars to put towards an MRI in the new Portage Regional Healthcare facility that is under construction and expected to open in 2026.
Inexplicably, this government has refused the offer. The Health Minister and the Premier were invited to a town hall in Portage la Prairie, which was held conveniently on a day they were already in the city (touring the under-construction facility).
The Minister later admitted to not attending because they knew they weren't going to like what the residents had to share. The Premier and his Minister knew community members had stories to share of having to leave the province for tests (at their own expense), of fear for their children getting needed tests, of feeling vulnerable and unheard. And instead
of leading, of listening and letting the residents of Portage and surrounding community feel listened to, they both fled back to Winnipeg. They ignored hundreds of community members who showed up to meet with them, just like they’ve disregarded the almost 5,000 people that have rallied around a petition asking for an MRI here.
Currently in Manitoba we have in excess of 20,000 people waiting for an MRI. Rather than looking at ways to provide more scans and get people diagnosed and into treatment (not to mention off the waiting list), they prefer to point fingers and refuse to even discuss the issue.
We need to get people properly diagnosed in a timely manner so that they are spending less time in hospitals waiting for scans, taking a bed away from another person who is sitting in a crowded ER for hours because there is nowhere to put them. Here in Portage la Prairie we have the desire, the ability and the financial means to play a role in reducing this inevitable chain reaction by helping to dramatically drop the number of people waiting on MRI scans in this region. Naturally, this would also free up appointments for people throughout the
province. But rather than working together to try to make it happen, this government is more focused on blaming the last government.
You can tell a lot about a government by how it treats its elders. Letting them languish in hospital beds waiting to access healthcare hours away rather than providing what they need close to home is not only disrespectful, it is downright cold-hearted. And it certainly isn’t leadership.
Jeff Bereza is the MLA for Portage. He has been championing this cause since the election. Charleswood, Headingley and St. James would all benefit, too. Let the government know what you think.
Private health care: two tier disaster or system saving innovation?
There is no quicker way to derail a proposed change in health care than to claim the result will be two-tiered service delivery. It is not only the predominant but also the most persistent health care related curse. But it is, in today’s world, a toothless threat made to perpetuate a myth.
With healthcare providers overrun by patients and wait times approaching mind-numbing levels, Canadians with financial means have been seeking care outside the public system - often outside the country. De facto, two-tier healthcare.
Timely access is the main motivator for those prepared to travel for care, and little wonder. The average delay is now at 90 days. By comparison, the average wait for a new patient with a non-urgent need is just 21 days in the United States. If you’re in need of attention from a medical specialist the wait is a painful 30 weeks here while in the US the wait for a specialist is 26 days. Who, in their right mind, would not trade a 30-week wait for a comparatively quick 26 days?
an average ranging from $5,622 per year for health care for a single person to $17,713 for a family of four. That expenditure does not come out of anyone’s pocket because it comes directly off pay cheques in the form of taxes. No, health care in Canada is not free.
Ron Arnst
The United States delivers health care through medical entrepreneurs who are paid by patients, often through their insurance policies. The actual cost paid by individuals depends on the type of insurance they have. The annual insurance premium for a family in the United States has been estimated at $25,572 but if the family has an employer sponsored plan the employer usually pays a significant portion of the premium. Health insurance for a single person in the US is estimated at $14,570 with the type of insurance involved moving the cost down or up.
The heaviest costs for health care in the US come for uninsured patients including foreigners seeking one-time emergency care.
demic, has been pummeled by the exploding drug addiction crisis. It is no accident that interest in incorporating elements of private health care in the existing public system has been growing. Overworked health care professionals are very interested in alternatives that provide them with a better work-life balance and, in some circumstances, better pay. Health care unions, sensing the potential for significant out-migration of members, have been the loudest opponents of any and all private incursions.
There is no reason that health care must be an either-or choice in Canada. Several countries have a dual public-private system. Australia’s approach is often referenced as a good working example. The Australian government funds a universally available public system and hospitals while the private system handles elective surgery and other services. Not only can a public-private system be accomplished, it is working in several nations.
Canadians have been told their health care is free while health care south of the 49th is very expensive. To drive the point home, several examples have floated around the public ether. Very effective storytelling. Brace yourself for a few pertinent facts.
According to the Fraser Institute, Canadians pay
That’s the essence of the one payer/private health care debate. You can have better access if you are willing to pay more or you can pay less for health care available to everyone but longer delays in treatment. There is no clear winner. What you prefer depends on your personal situation.
Canada’s health care system, crippled by the pan-
Lifestyles 55 Digital Radio
Turn on, tune in and join the thousands of other like-minded music lovers who are praising the memory-making music produced by a dedicated group of a dozen or so former broadcasters and new folks who are on Lifestyles 55 Digital Radio. They are creating the kind of radio you want to hear.
But its not the old traditional radio we all grew up with, Lifestyles Digital Radio is soon to be completely commercial free with something for everyone. All the memorable crooners and hits including doo wop from the 1950s to mid 1960s. We will never forget what has been called the greatest decade of music ever … the 60s. The rock, the ballads, the soloists, the
girl groups, heart breakers and hit makers and a touch of jazz.
We have it all, including some of the more recent and edgy music. We are here, day and night. Just for you.
If you enjoy reading Lifestyles 55, you will love the expanded Issues in the news on Lifestyles 55 Digital Radio. I have some exciting guests to check in on.
Mushrooms
Trudi Osmond talks about the wonderful medicinal benefits of Mushroom -- no, not the "magic" ones, lol, but all the others that contribute to human health and wellness. Many will be fascinated to hear how mushrooms can improve memory. If you are intrigued, you can take in the Mush-
One of the biggest benefits of introducing a private option to our public system is the immediate positive impact on waiting lists. Every person who opts for private care is one less in the line-up for public care. But there are more upsides. Opening up private health care options will undoubtedly attract investment in facilities. It should also create opportunities in the insurance industry that will benefit the economy.
I am a strong believer in innovation in health care. It is long overdue and badly needed. Surely innovative ways to offer private health care must be at the top of the list in Manitoba.
room seminar by Dr. Alan Attridge, microbiologist, that is happening on Feb. 15. (See notice on page 10). Brian Glow
You will also be fascinated by the interview with magician Brian Glow. Brian has been carrying the Manitoba magic message all over the world as he has done over 10,000 thousand shows in 45 countries. Since COVID, Brian has also been working with kids in the high Arctic to teach them how to deal with bullying in an effort to prevent suicide.
Stay tuned. Lots of great stuff is coming up, including our old friend Kevin Twomey (who is also helping the Myshroom folks)! www.lifestyles55radio.ca
Jeff Bereza
Dog breath – don’t let periodontal disease ruin your relationship or your dog’s good health
Despite the darkness and biting cold, February is a very active time in veterinary medicine. February is Pet Dental Health month, and one of the most important months of the year. Why? Because this month gives us the opportunity to make our companions’ dental health more of a priority.
Often, an animal’s dental health isn’t a serious topic of conversation until it is too late – perhaps the animal has become a poor anesthetic candidate because of underlying disease, or they have more pressing immediate health issues, or perhaps, even, the disease becomes so advanced that performing a procedure is simply out of reach financially.
Whatever the reason, our pets suffer. Anyone who has ever had dental pain knows how debilitating it is, how distracting it is to everyday life. But our companions continue on their merry way, eating through the pain because that’s just what they do. Would we pay more attention if our animals stopped eating, or if they showed more discomfort? Probably, but survival instinct is a real thing.
Dental health is near and dear to our hearts in veterinary medicine because it is one of the most common diseases we see, yet one of the least common we treat. Studies show that most animals, that
is over 80%, will display some evidence of periodontal disease by the age of three. That’s right. THREE. They are still young adults and their mouth is already a concern. Small dog breeds are particularly affected. Dog breath? No, that’s periodontal disease. It has become something of an epidemic.
So how can we address this neglected disease? Prevention is key. Getting proactive while our animals are young is important. Of course, the number one thing we can do is brush our animal’s teeth. We know. It sucks and they don’t like it. But it remains the best thing we can do. That being said, there are other tools out there that can help –from dental foods to dental chews, water additives and gingival treatments. To help tease out which of these have evidence demonstrating their efficacy, it is recommended to look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal on any oral health product. This council reviews clinical data to ensure that any product with the Seal meets standards for effective plaque and tartar control. It may come as a surprise to many, but veterinary dentists advise against the use of bones and antlers for oral care. They are hard, and powerful chewers can damage or even break their teeth. If there is one thing that is even more painful than periodontal disease, it’s a broken tooth. Left untreated, these
Understanding dry eye
Dry eye is a multifactorial condition that can affect any age group, but it becomes increasingly common as we get older. It is estimated that up to 30% of Canadians suffer from dry eye.
Am I at risk for dry eye?
While anyone can develop dry eye, you may be more likely to experience it if you:
• Are aged 50 or older
• Are female
• Wear contact lenses
• Don’t get enough vitamin A (found in carrots, broccoli, and liver) or omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, walnuts, and vegetable oils)
• Have certain autoimmune conditions, such as lupus or Sjögren’s syndrome
• Take medications like antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, or antidepressants
• Have medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, thyroid issues, or blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids)
• Stringy mucus near the eyes
Your tear film: the key to comfortable eyes
Your tear film plays an essential role in keeping your eyes hydrated and comfortable. It is made up of:
• Mucus: Adheres the tear film to the surface of the eye.
Dr. Romie Dhaliwal All About Eyes
• Are exposed to environmental factors like smoke, wind, or dry climates
• Spend long hours staring at a computer screen without blinking regularly
• Have undergone refractive surgeries like LASIK
What are the symptoms of dry eye?
People with dry eyes may experience a range of symptoms, including:
• Irritated, gritty, or scratchy sensations
• Stinging or burning feelings
• Redness
• Watery eyes (a response to irritation)
• Light sensitivity
• Blurred vision
cause chronic pain and can lead to large tooth root abscesses. Many of our pets eat hard kibble every single day. It isn’t hard to imagine the pain they would feel at every meal.
Finally, if pain isn’t enough of a motivator to address our friends’ oral health, consider this: periodontal disease can lead to systemic diseases as well, from heart to liver to kidney diseases. It can also cause chronic activation of the immune system and lymph node enlargement.
Which brings us back to Dental Health Month. It is one of the only pet celebrations that last a month, and this is because of both its neglected nature and the need for awareness. Clinics will run full-month promotions to help get pets the help they need, and sometimes even apply these promotions past the end of the month, just to allow them to that your pet’s veterinary team is doing something to raise awareness. Reach out! They are here to help.
So, pet owners, during this month of February, we encourage you to look in your pet’s mouth, lift those lips and be critical. Get proactive with various tools. Take advantage of promotions run by your veterinary team. And most of all, don’t wait until it’s too late. We owe it to them.
Until next time fellow paw print loving friends… Silver Heights Veterinary Hospital is proud to serve the Winnipeg region, and is located on Ness Avenue in St. James. Contact them at 204-504-5600 or visit their website at silverheightsvethospital.ca
mation and even minimizing fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes—a bonus benefit!
• Water: Hydrates the eyes and washes away dirt and dust.
• Oil: Prevents the tear film from evaporating.
When any part of this system is disrupted, dry eye can develop.
Meibomian gland dysfunction a common cause of dry eye
Dry eye can be categorized into two types:
1. Evaporative Dry Eye: Caused by a lack of quality oil in the tear film.
2. Aqueous Tear Deficiency: Caused by a lack of water in the tear film.
Evaporative dry eye is the most common form and is often linked to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands, located along the edges of your eyelids, produce the oil needed to prevent tear evaporation. When these glands become blocked, your tear film loses essential oils, leading to dryness and discomfort.
Advanced Dry Eye Treatments at Academy Optical
At Academy Optical, we’re proud to offer FDAapproved treatments for dry eye, including Radiofrequency (RF) and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapies.
Radiofrequency (RF) Therapy. RF therapy uses gentle heat to clear blocked meibomian glands, improve oil production, and restore a healthy tear film. It also stimulates collagen production, reducing inflam-
Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. Originally used for skin conditions like rosacea, IPL therapy is highly effective for treating meibomian gland dysfunction and managing chronic dry eye. By reducing inflammation and improving gland function, IPL provides long-term relief from dry eye symptoms.
At Academy Optical, we combine IPL/RF therapy with meibomian gland expression, a technique that helps release oils from your glands to restore tear film quality. This dual approach is designed to maximize results and help you feel your best.
Prevention tips for dry eye
While treatment is essential, you can take steps to reduce symptoms of dry eye, including:
• Blinking regularly when using screens or reading for extended periods.
• Increasing humidity in your home or workplace.
• Wearing wraparound sunglasses outdoors to protect against wind and sun.
• Staying hydrated by drinking 8–10 glasses of water daily.
• Taking nutritional supplements with omega-3 fatty acids, if recommended by your doctor.
• Avoiding air blowing directly onto your face, such as from car heaters or fans.
• Steering clear of overly dry environments like airplanes and high-altitude locations.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Left untreated, dry eye can lead to complications such as frequent infections or even corneal damage. During a comprehensive eye exam, we’ll evaluate your tear film’s health, review your medical history, and consider environmental factors to create a personalized treatment plan.
Dr. Romie Dhaliwal, B. SC., O.D. is the owner and optometrist at Academy Optical.
Celebrating 15 years of CentrePort Canada adding billions to Manitoba’s GDP
pressway is now used by over 5 million vehicles annually.
• 2015: A shared trenching project delivered natural gas and telecommunications infrastructure to CentrePort Canada lands.
• 2016: The Special Planning Authority began operation, streamlining development in the RM of Rosser, also known as CentrePort North.
• 2018: The development boom in CentrePort North began with the installation of water and wastewater servicing.
• 2022: The Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg provided funding to bring water and wastewater to the city of Winnipeg lands, also known as CentrePort South.
• 2023: The CentrePort Canada Rail Park broke ground, fulfilling the trimodal vision (truck, plane and train) in the heart of CentrePort Canada.
• 2024: The City of Winnipeg initiated the installation of water and wastewater infrastructure in CentrePort South and formed the CentrePort South Development Support Team to expedite development approvals.
A Thriving Inland Port
Today, CentrePort Canada is one of North America’s largest trimodal inland ports and Foreign Trade Zones, offering 20,000 acres of high-quality, affordable industrial land. Hundreds of new companies have located at CentrePort Canada, thousands of new jobs have been created, and Manitoba is reminding the world why it’s well positioned to be a global leader in trade and transportation. CentrePort Canada’s central location at the intersection of multiple trade gateways is enabling thousands of companies to move goods regionally, nationally, and internationally every day. Companies are reaching over 100 million consumers within a 24hour drive and leveraging trimodal transportation infrastructure, including three Class I railways and a 24/7 international airport.
CentrePort Canada has generated value not just for businesses, but for every citizen of Manitoba. Through economic growth, job opportunities, and new tax dollars to pay for the services that our communities need, CentrePort Canada will create opportunities for Manitobans for decades to come.
Over 3 million square feet of new industrial space has been built or is being built as you read this. Almost $800 million of construction permits have been issued to build new industrial developments and operations at CentrePort Canada. And there are no signs of slowing down.
More to Come Development in CentrePort North continues, building on the progress made over the past five years. Fastfrate Group, the first company to announce their move to the Rail Park, opened the doors on a $55 million new location at the end of 2024. Keystone Industrial Park, in development by
Exemplar Developments, will transform 184 acres of empty land into a modern industrial development. This project, launched in 2024, pre-sold several lots before it broke ground. And there is more to come.
With water and wastewater servicing going into the ground, CentrePort South will see significant growth, including new industrial developments, an expansion on the west side of the Winnipeg Richardson International Airport campus, and a residential development that will be home to 8,000 to 12,000 residents.
At full build-out, the construction impacts of CentrePort Canada will provide a boost to Manitoba’s GDP just shy of $8 billion and about 100,000 person-years of employment.
Manitoba’s Destiny Realized
Fifteen years ago, the visionaries who created CentrePort Canada could have set aside a very modest amount of land to create an inland port.
Other Canadian ports are smaller in size, such as the Global Transportation Hub in Regina and the Port of Vancouver, which are 1,800 and 1,600 acres, respectively. CentrePort’s founders chose 20,000 acres – an area larger than Manhattan. They believed that a bold vision would invite big investment and big ideas and make a big impact.
Fifteen years later, with over $1 billion of private industry dollars generated by CentrePort’s development, it’s clear that going big and bold is paying off.
But CentrePort Canada isn’t just important for Manitoba: it provides strong, trimodal supply chain opportunities to global markets. It connects Canada with the world, and thanks to the efforts of our partners and our community, the trimodal inland port is ready to play an integral role in building our country’s future.
Carly Edmundson is the President & CEO of CentrePort Canada.
Fastfrate Group was the first company to open in the CentrePort Canada Rail Park. Photo provided by Fastfrate Group.
Bison Truck CPC Way: CentrePort Canada Way is used by over 5 million vehicles annually.
Carly Edmundson CentrePort
u Who is Wally Daudrich?
build with logs. He and a friend drove their truck as close to the site of the fire as possible, then unloaded a snowmobile to take them to the downed trees. They would pick up a half dozen logs at a time, hitch them to the snowmobile, drag them back to the truck, load, and repeat until the truck was full.
The result was a picturesque log cabin that soon became a tourist draw for people who were in town to see the polar bears. The visitors also started asking for a dine-in option. Wally added to the original space (now the check-in lobby), building not only a lovely dining room but all the furniture with his bare hands. This is the kind of man he is. Nothing daunts him. He is not afraid of hard work and he knows how to get things done.
Gradually, a beautiful lodge grow through the family’s efforts. Along with that, Wally began a polar bear tour operation, using old school busses at first, until he eventually was able to afford to have the first Arctic Crawler built – much of it by Ironman Enterprises in Winkler, Manitoba.
In Churchill, the prime polar bear grounds exist on something called the Wildlife Management Area which requires that tour operators have a license. It took Lazy Bear Expeditions until just a couple of years ago to be granted a license and even then, they have access only to a small portion but that does not phase Wally and Dawn. They just work harder.
Wally also recognized the romance and wonder attached to the beluga whales which birth their babies at the mouth of the Churchill River. He started taking folks out in the Bay in a rubber dinghy, eventually graduating to a full-size boat, the Sam Hearne. This is so popular that during Covid, he had a second and larger boat built, complete with underwater viewing stations. It is the Mantonabee, for the chief who was a friend and partner to Sam Hearn.
This is just the beginning when it comes to how Wally
and Dawn have expanded their operation, still centered around that original chip shop. They employ may people in the town of Churchill and spend a large amount of money with local and Manitoba businesses, including their contracts with local airlines. Wally has travelled all around the world promoting Manitoba and his business. He says he has had visitors from 150 countries, and he has entertained everyone from billionaires to prime ministers to royalty at the Lazy Bear.
In the off season, the Daudriches now reside in Morden although they have spent some winters in Florida. The kids are nearly grown up. Addie, the eldest, is 28 and lives in Newfoundland now, while some of the others still go to school and work in the business in the summer. As the kids grow up and the business matures, Wally is being freed up to do something that he has had in his heart for a long time and that is contributing more to the province he loves. That is why he is running for the leadership of the PC Party of Manitoba.
His platform is simple but critical to our future prosperity and wellbeing. He calls it his 3B plan.
The first B stands for Bus, a very large bus which has room all sorts of people and ideas. Wally equates democracy with freedom. You cannot have a democratic society without it, so while he may not agree with you, he defends your right to your own faith, opinion and political ideas. He respects and understands the Indigenous community with whom he has lived and done business. He also understands that criminals don’t belong on the bus and that we have to reestablish law and order.
The second B stands for Business. Without a healthy business climate, our province cannot prosper, and we cannot afford to maintain the shared services that sustain our social network of healthcare, or support for folks with disabilities and others who need hand up when hard times hit. We must grow our economy, says Wally, encouraging northern development to help the FN there regain their economic independence which
will contribute the prosperity of central and southern Manitoba.
We need to re-envision our history as a province that is critical to Canada as a transportation hub: east west, south and north. Even though he is from Churchill, Wally endorses a second port on Hudson Bay at the mouth of the Nelson River, the location of European entry into Central Canada and where we maintained a trading relationship for hundreds of years. Indeed, it was Wally who produced the idea to finish building the railroad from Amery to Port Nelson to overcome the difficulties caused by the floating permafrost bed of the line to Churchill. This is NeeStaNan which will be owned by First Nations, Fox Lake and York Factory, original partners with the Europeans.
Wally believes we need to reexamine business-blocking regulations, be open and welcoming to new ideas, and encourage our youth to stay and invest in the province.
The final B stands for Backbone. Change always meets resistance and Wally recognizes that after 32 of the last 50 years under the rule of the NDP, so many anti-business and anti-progress policies and attitudes are embedded that changing things will be a challenge. It will take courage and determination to make a lasting difference and to return us to our former prominence in Confederation. But he has the backbone, and he is up to the challenge of building on what Brian Pallister and Heather Stefanson began.
I know many of my readers are not conservatives and I respect that, but if you are, please consider renewing your membership in the Party before Feb. 28 and voting for Wally Daudrich. His opponent is a very nice man and a good football player, but he does not have the 3B’s!
Here is where to sign up: Wally4leader.com
Dorothy Dobbie, C.M. is the former MP for Winnipeg South, the owner of this paper and the chair of the Wally Daudrich campaign.
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The Lazy Bear Lodge.
Wally speaks to a full house in North Kildonan. He is liked by all who hear him talk about the future of Manitoba.
You can still help kids and get a tax receipt until Feb. 28 this year
February is #HeartMonth, and we at the Children’s Hospital Foundation are so deeply grateful for supporters who follow their hearts to help kids. Over the last four years donors have helped transform the lives of kids who need cardiac care – kids like Max.
When Max was born, he had eight holes in his heart as well as narrow airways. As a baby he suffered from cardiac arrest and a massive gastrointestinal bleed, pneumonia, bronchiolitis, blood clots, a paralyzed vocal cord among other challenges. He even needed open heart surgery. Before his first birthday, Max had more than 20 surgeries and spent a significant amount of time in hospital connected to remote monitored equipment.
You can imagine, remote monitored equipment allows health care teams to keep a close eye on kids’ vital signs while they’re in hospital without being right beside them. Children’s Hospital’s amazing staff can check in on any patient from any of the centralized monitoring locations. Previously HSC Children’s only had four beds with these capabilities, so kids were often moved based on changing needs. This caused unnecessary stress for our dear kids, their parents and those taking care for them.
I’m so pleased to share that thanks to $6.5 million of generous donor support we will be able to outfit all 100 inpatient beds at Children’s with this game-changing technology. By the fall of this year, Wi-Fi, smart badge technology and minor room
improvements will be completed. This fantastic investment will help give better care to kids and is so meaningful for the health care heroes who look after them.
All of us at Children’s are extremely grateful for the support you’ve given. I am asking for one more favour. As you know, delays in postal service at the end of 2024 reduced year-end donations to Children’s Hospital Foundation. Donations like these are specifically needed to help fund new surgical equipment and the ground-breaking child health research done right here.
The federal government announced that they are extending the 2024 tax receipt deadline to February 28, 2025. We encourage you to donate now at goodbear.ca to support high priority needs at Children’s Hospital.
One more thing – when you sign up for email receipts, you will receive your tax receipt faster and reduce costs to the Foundation. If you wish to switch to e-receipts, please contact info@goodbear.ca with your request.
Your support of the Foundation also helps kids like Janessa, our 2024 Champion Child who we celebrated at the end of January 2024. What a year it’s been for her! She is from Pukatawagan and is our first Champion from a remote First Nation. Living about 800 km north of Winnipeg made getting the care she needed at HSC Children’s Hospital difficult and required many sacrifices by her and her family. After countless trips to Children’s, they eventually had to move to Winnipeg where at 12 years old, Janessa had a successful kidney transplant. Janessa remains positive back in her home community. All of us are so extremely proud of Janessa and everything she accomplished as the 2024 Champion Child. Read more about at goodbear.ca.
Thank you!
Stefano Grande is the president and CEO of Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba.
“Mushrooms not only are versatile, they also provide a variety of health benefits ranging from brain health to cancer prevention.” – Mayo Clinic
You are invited to attend a seminar on the benefits of medicinal mushrooms by Professor Alan Attridge, Microbiologist.
Learn how MyShroom can boost and balance your immune system, improve memory, blood sugar and liver health.
Airport Hilton Hotel, 1800 Wellington Ave. Saturday, February 15, 2025
Attend session #1 at 9 am OR session #2 at 1 pm
Admission is $20 (cash only)
Call 204-381-1588 to reserve your seat (limited seating)
Stuffed Tomatoes, page 104
Salmon Papilotte, page 132
Stefano Grande Healthy Living
Always popular Laurie Mustard speaks with relish about his long career in the public eye
There are some people who are always “on”. Think of the late Robin Williams or Howie Mandel, people who are always funny. Then there are others: Lucille Ball, for example, who could act “funny” in front of the camera but, off camera, but were not funny in real life.
Laurie Mustard places himself in the former category, a man who was always “on”. For 50 years, our city’s ultimate media personality has been using his wit and sense of humour to entertain fellow Winnipeggers across all media – print, the stage, radio and television – and through numerous appearances for charitable causes to leave our community a better place for many.
The first time I recall encountering Laurie Mustard was watching The Big Guy commercials. I am sure most readers will remember them. The Big Guy, of course, was Jim Gauthier.
player and GM) hired me,” Laurie says. “I worked for the Sun for 20 years from 1991 to 2011.”
At the Sun, he wrote a daily column, “Faces and Places”. One of the features for the column, he recalls, was the “smile of the day”.
It was in the early 1980s. Laurie was hired by Palmer Jarvis Advertising’s Rod Palson to star in a series of 33 commercials over 3.5 years promoting one of Winnipeg’s leading auto dealers. Laurie augmented the spots with his trademark ad-libbing.
Typical of the ads was one featuring Laurie wearing a while suite and Panama hat, speaking with a Spanish accent, talking up The Big Guy. He then gets into a sports car beside an attractive young lady, promptly hits reverse instead of drive, and crashes the car. The last line is a slightly dishevelled Laurie’s reminder that The Big Guy also has a good body shop.
A second sketch has sales rep Laurie slipping into Gauthier’s office while The Big Guy is out and pretending to be the Man. He sits in Gauthier’s chair, smokes of his cigars, takes his phones calls, then, while stretching to an answer a phone, falls over. A dazed and in pain, Laurie adds that The Big Guy does not step out of his office that often.
While he and I have undoubtedly crossed paths from time-to-time over the years, neither of us can quite remember when although our careers both encompassed stints working for the Free Press and the Winnipeg Sun. I have never had occasion to interview Laurie before.
So, it was a delight recently talking to him and listening to his reminisces about his 50-year career in the public eye. And what a career it has been.
Laurie is originally from the southwestern Manitoba community of Killarney. The family moved into Winnipeg - St. James specifically - when he was still in elementary school.
“Even as a kid, I loved performing,” Laurie recalls. “I was always good at doing voices and accents.”
In high school (St. James Collegiate) he gravitated to school plays. “I fell in love with acting,” he says.
While at the University of Winnipeg, he focused on theatre and appeared in university productions and on several local stages afterward. “I was directed by John Hirsch at MTC in The Dybbuk,” he recalls. “The Toronto-based actor Saul Rubinek invited me to move to Toronto and room with him. I realized early on though that an actor lacks job security. You never know when your next role may be coming along. I wanted a career with more stability. I wanted to be able to afford to raise a family.”
So, in a fine example of chutzpah (the Yiddish word for “nerve” or perhaps “daring”), the young master of voice impersonation put together a demo tape imitating the then popular morning show call-in host Peter warren and took it to CJOB.
“I was quickly hired – initially as a copywriter because there was no opening on the air. “I was soon designated the traffic reporter which allowed me to be on the air twice a day,” he recounts. “I had a lot of fun with that.”
It wasn’t long before Laurie was paired with Red Alix as co-host of the Morning Show. “Wake Up Winnipeg”. “Red and I had 11 great years together.” he says.
It was during his time that I also established a memorable rapport with longtime CJOB traffic reporter Brian Barkley. “We had a great time teasing each other,” Laurie laughs.
His time at CJOB came to an end when a new station manager came in and wanted a more serious approach to the show. “Red warned me about this guy.”
At the same time as he was on air at CJOB, Laurie was also host of “Switchback”, a weekly CBC Sunday morning show for kids and teenagers which, Laurie notes, also attracted an adult audience who appreciated my double entendre.”
After leaving ‘OB, he worked for Palmer Jarvis for six months before moving on to his next gig at the Winnipeg Sun. “Sun publisher Paul Robson (who may be better known to readers for his lengthy career as a Blue Bomber
“I would go into offices and stores and get people to smile,” he recounts, “But I wanted a real smile from the heart. That was the challenge. I would ask people to remember the first time they had sex. That did it.”
After leaving the Sun, he moved to the Free Press where, for several years, he wrote a weekly column, Mustard on Everything, in the Homes Section for several years.
For the past couple of years, the father of three and grandfather of 11, has been dealing with health issues but, he reports, he is finally beginning to recover.
Looking back, Laurie has many fond memories. There was the time, for example, that he proposed to Sophia Loren (she declined the offer as she was already married). He also mentions once chatting with Dionne Warwick for half an hour (“It felt like we were close friends,” he recalls), and hanging out with the likes of Milton Beryl and Gordon Lightfoot.
Then there were all those years in which he was involved in Shmockey Night, that annual charity broomball game at the arena pitting members of the Bombers versus members of the media.
“We would have celebrity guests such as Don Harron and Catherine McKinnon and George Savalas,” Laurie recounts. “Then there was the year that we (the media team) brought in a ringer – Mad Dog Vachon. The Bombers countered with John Ferguson. Ferguson quickly pulled a groin muscle.
“We had Vachon and Paul Robson pretending to get into an argument at the start,” Laurie continues. “I had Jim Ingebrigtsen go in to diffuse the argument. I assured Jim that there would be no problem. However (former Bomber offensive tackle) big Chris Walby picked Jim up and slammed him to the floor. Then Vachon was going to pretend to kick Jim in the head. However, he slipped and really did accidentally kick Jim in the head. The poor guy was in a lot of pain.”
When all is said and done though, Laurie Mustard is most proud of the all the charities he has helped promote over the years. “I was emceeing up to 200 events a year, many of them charities” he reports. “I have always been willing to help out. And now that I am feeling better, I hope to be able to soon be making public appearances again and continue helping different charities.”
Choosing funeral and cemetery plans can be overwhelming to a grieving spouse. Plan the details now. Together. Order your FREE Estate Planning Kit by calling or visiting the locations listed below.
Chapel Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery 4000 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB 204-982-8100
Glen Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery 455 Lagimodiere Blvd., Winnipeg, MB 204-982-7557
Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery 4477 Main St., West St. Paul, MB 204-982-8300
Desjardins Funeral Home 357 Des Meurons St., Winnipeg, MB 204-233-4949
*Research conducted by Willful and Arbor Memorial Inc. in a 2020 survey.
Myron Love
Why not spice up this Valentines Day with a Coconut Chicken Curry
Are you a fan of East Indian cuisine? If so, how about treating your loved one to a perfectly blended spicy meal on lovers’ day! Throw away the take-away menu, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the feast created in your own sultry dish.
Ian Leatt Foodies
In a dimly lit kitchen, the air thickens with anticipation, a pot simmers gently on the stove, its contents a luscious blend of spices and coconut cream. The first notes of garlic and ginger sizzle seductively, releasing an aromatic invitation that dances through the air, teasing the senses. Each ingredient – turmeric, cumin, and a whisper of chili – intertwines, creating a fragrant melody that beckons you closer.
As you add tender chicken thighs, they nestle into the creamy mixture, their surface glistening with the rich sauce that envelops them like a lover’s embrace. The vibrant yellow hue of the curry radiates warmth, promising a flavor that is both bold and comforting. You stir slowly, savoring the way the chicken absorbs the fragrant depths of the coconut, a silky smoothness that glides over your palate.
In this intimate moment, you can almost taste the sweetness of the coconut mingling with the spice – a delightful contrast that ignites a passionate fire. The curry bubbles softly, each pop a promise of the indulgence to come. You sprinkle in fresh cilantro, the vivid green flecks contrasting beautifully against the golden sauce, like a secret hint of freshness amidst the decadence.
As you serve it, the steam rises, wrapping around you like a warm caress. A bowl of this coconut chicken curry becomes an invitation – a tempting, flavourful experience that invites you to dive in, savor each bite, and let the rich, creamy sauce envelop your senses completely. With each mouthful, you are transported to a paradise of flavour, where heat and sweetness dance
together, leaving you craving more, as if it were a forbidden pleasure meant to be enjoyed slowly, savoring every moment.
Set the mood, lights, candles and perhaps some Bollywood music. Present your dish and feel the spice ignite inside you both.
Here is what you will need:
For the curry
6 boneless chicken thighs
2 teaspoons salt
Freshly cracked black pepper
¼ cup cooking oil
1 large onion chopped
5 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon minced ginger
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon red chilli flakes
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon water
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 can evaporated coconut milk
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For the rice
2 cups long grain basmati rice
¼ teaspoon cumin seed
¼ teaspoon turmeric
3 tablespoons ghee
½ cup chickpeas
½ cup frozen vegetable mixture, (carrots, peas, beans and corn)
The all important how to:
For the curry
Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Place a large skillet over a high heat and add the oil; partially cook the chicken in batches until golden browned on all sides. Transfer the chicken thighs to a plate and set aside.
Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium then add onion, garlic, and ginger to the. Cook and stir until onion turns soft and translucent. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, cayenne, and one tablespoon of water into the onion mixture; stir constantly until the spices have blended with the onion garlic mixture. Add yogurt and cilantro and keep stirring. Once blended add the coconut milk and stir to combine.
Once the curry mixture is complete add the chicken thigh to the skillet along with any juices on the plate. Bring to a boil, turning the chicken to coat with the sauce. Sprinkle some garam masala and cilantro over the chicken as it cooks.
Cover the skillet and simmer until chicken breasts are no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. Drizzle with lemon juice to serve.
For the rice
Place the rice in a medium sized pot and rinse using hot water. Do this six times - we need to remove the starch. Once rinsed pour enough water over the rice plus one inch. Put the pot on the stove and bring to a boil, once boiling keep the lid on the pot and leave to cook, 10 minutes. As the rice cooks the water reduces, keep your eye on it so it doesn’t go dry.
Once the rice is cooked strain and place onto a clean baking tray. Pre-heat the over to 350˚F. Using a spoon level the rice on the baking sheet and stir in the ghee and frozen vegetables. Place in the oven for 10 minutes stirring once.
To serve place the rice on the plate, the chicken thigh on top and pour over the curry. Enjoy, Happy Valentines Day.
Ian Leatt is a trained chef from across the pond.
Cherishing our elm trees forever through Urban Lumber
Ever wonder what happens to all those dead elms cut down by the city due to Dutch elm disease? They were previously chopped up and the wood chips used to line pathways with the excess probably ending up in the landfill.
Now, all that has changed with the advent of Urban Lumber, the creative enterprise started by two environmentally conscious tree lovers, Carlee Farmer and Mike McGarry.
They met through the University of Winnipeg forestry school during a skills camp at beautiful Clearwater Lake up near The Pas. The rest is happy history. Over the next few years, Mike and Carlee graduated then worked at a variety of forestry jobs, including the forestry company at The Pas, and forestry related jobs for the city of Winnipeg and for the province Manitoba. Five years after meeting, they headed out to Vancouver looking for the romance of the ageless trees in the rain forest. It was heartbreaking to see that the old growth forest is still being cut down.
They returned home to Winnipeg just as the emerald ash borer was making its way through the city. In 2018, Mike started recycling dead ash trees as a pilot project for city forester Martha Barwinsky. He rented a 10,000-square-foot warehouse and purchased an old sawmill and forklift with the help of Futurpreneur, selling the lumber to Windsor Plywood.
When the project was over, Mike wrote a report for the city then went back to Clearwater Lake to work. While there, a fellow who said he was an arborist, came all the way up to Denair Beach near Flin Flon and made an irresistible offer to help Mike expand his budding lumber business.
Mike accepted and came back to town, but several months later, the fellow disappeared. He had been storing some of his equipment on the property of MuddRuckers owner, Doug Cook. It was through this association that Carlee and Mike and Doug became acquainted and then became friends.
Carlee and Mike got married in Doug’s amazing Charleswood yard (travellers down Wilkes will know it
by the pirate ship that surrounds his swimming pool).
The friendship has since become a business partnership and Urban Lumber is now a growing operation on Loudon Avenue off Wilkes.
Urban Lumber started out once again as a wholesale lumber producer, determined not to get lured into the custom furniture business. But as the word spread about their product, folks kept showing up at the shop asking to buy things, looking for custom products. Succumbing to market demand, Urban Lumber now offers a number of very special products that are prized not just for the beauty of the wood but also for its rarity as a building product and for its connection with the trees that form the heartbeat of our city.
As many know, Winnipeg’s American elm forest is a treasure, the largest elm forest in North America. Despite this, American elm wood is in limited supply partly because most mature forests have been decimated by the Dutch elm bark beetle and the fungal disease it spreads. Elm wood can be idiosyncratic to deal with. It has interlocking grains that anyone who has ever tried to split it as firewood will understand. But these same charac-
teristics are what makes elm wood so valuable to hockey players. It bends well under steam to get the hockey stick curve, but its interlocking grains hold it together giving the stick shock resistance. Most hockey sticks are made of American elm.
Above all, elm wood is beautiful, ranging from the pale gold, whitish sapwood to the heartwoods of light brown tinged with red.
Making lumber from dead city elms is not all smooth sailing. “Sixty percent of the trees have metal in them,” points out Mike, who produces a little glass treasure trove of the products they have found locked up in the wood, mostly nails, but one, a small, ancient lock. The metal dulls and ruins many a saw blade, but it is part of the story, and the final result is worth it.
Not that American elm is the easiest wood to work with in other ways. It needs careful and prolonged drying, or it warps, and as it dries, it loses 25% of its volume. Getting a straight edge is a challenge. But the company can provide both straight edge or the trendy live edge pieces for floating shelves, tables, benches, and mantels. Even small products such as charcuterie slabs are available and even smaller are little gift cards of wood for tree lovers.
New markets keep seeking out Urban Lumber. Lately, interior designers, who value this wood for beams, mantels and paneling features, have discovered the product. Do-it-yourselfers are also cherishing the wood, and despite original plans, the custom furniture design market is growing rapidly. There is a demand for high-end conference tables for major firms and organizations – Fort Whyte Centre and the University of Manitoba are two of the latest examples.
Just think. If you have an ancient elm about to be cut down on your property, you could cherish it forever by salvaging its beautiful lumber for something useful in your home.
Urban Lumber is a wonderful Winnipeg story of ingenuity and perseverance. You could say, “They aren’t out of the woods yet!” and hopefully they never will be. What the company is doing is a practical environmental initiative that benefits all of us.
Watch Urban Lumber grow as we take pride in another of our local enterprises!
Dorothy Dobbie
“Sixty percent of the trees have metal in them,” says Mike.
WSO offers a musical ride on the mysterious Ojibwe horses
On Saturday, February 22 at 2:00 pm, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO) presents The Spirit Horse Returns, a powerful story of Ojibwe horses, traditional spirit animals to Métis and First Nations peoples. This captivating concert seamlessly blends traditional North American Indigenous teachings, stunning visual art, and a rich orchestral score to tell powerful stories and legends of the Ojibwe horses. The WSO invites audiences of all ages to learn about this mysterious group of small horses who can teach people of all Nations the importance of taking care of each other and the land we share.
The Spirit Horse Returns is a collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous co-creators, including Anishinaabe artist and Ojibwe horse breed expert Rhonda Snow, Anishinaabe storyteller and songwriter Jodi Contin (Wasauksing First Nation), composers Kevin Lau (a first-generation Canadian) and Andrew Balfour (of Cree descent), Elders and Knowledge Keepers Dan Thomas, Alison Cox, Anita Chechock, Stan Cuthand, Doug Cuthand, Norman Jordan, Skuya Fasthorse, Wabishkianaang, and writer and performer Ken MacDonald (an eleventh-generation settler).
The Spirit Horse Returns tells the story of a hornist in the orchestra living on a farm who is gifted an Ojibwe horse. Not knowing anything about this Indigenous-developed breed but intrigued, he and the audience go with the orchestra on a journey of discovery. An Indigenous knowledge keeper takes them through time to meet the first of these mysterious “small horses of the deep woods” who were helpers and spirit guides to First Nations and Métis people. Exploring the diversity of Indigenous cultures, concert-goers visit the magnificent Horse Nations of the prairies and jig at a joyous Métis kitchen party.
The arrival of settlers brings challenges and changes and the small ponies are pushed aside during colonization and used for such purposes as the Gold Rush and Pony Express. But just when it seems they will be lost forever, the last few horses are rescued!
Through the daring efforts of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people working together, the horses are given new life and new hope. The audience is gifted a beautiful new song to carry with them as caretakers of the Spirit Horses. They are also introduced to an inspiring prophecy that shows everyone they have a place in bringing about a better world where people of all Nations care for each other and the land we share.
The Spirit Horse Returns combines
a rich and tuneful orchestral score, delightful songs, traditional teachings, and stunning, colourful visual art. Though targeted at younger audiences, this concert takes music lovers of all ages on an inspiring exploration of truth and reconciliation.
The Spirit Horse Returns was premiered by the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra in 2022 and has been performed at many orchestras throughout Canada, including the National Arts Centre Orchestra.
“The time has come to tell the story of the Spirit Horse, and this is an awesome medium with which to share.” – Elder Dan Thomas
“The journey of the Spirit Horse is a remarkable learning path experience: we can
open our hearts to a majestic story that will bring us pride, wonder and healing. All audiences and learners alike will now have an opportunity to keep that Spirit alive. In this story of the little ponies, there are many lessons we can learn. We thank all of the people who have made this possible. Meegwetch.” – Elder Alison Cox
What audiences are saying: It was beyond superb and bravo to the whole community involved. I definitely happy cried! A complete treasure good for any age.
Quite simply the best children’s show I’ve seen. Actually, it should be seen by audiences. My children where entranced and so was I.
Tickets to The Spirit Horse Returns are available at wso.ca
Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre: celebrating community and craftsmanship with local products
Attending the theatre is more than just an evening of entertainment; it’s an immersive experience that captivates the senses, challenges the mind, and evokes deep emotions. The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre (MTC) fosters connections that extend beyond the performance itself, promoting an inclusive environment where the arts meet community spirit. As February approaches, MTC continues to strengthen its vibrant ties to the community, not only through exceptional productions but also through thoughtfully curated offerings in the theatre lobby.
MTC has developed a unique menu that showcases some of Manitoba’s finest local businesses. The focus is on introducing theatre-goers to exceptional products and services from the province. Whether patrons are enjoying a pre-show snack or an intermission beverage, MTC’s offerings are designed to enhance their theatre experience and support local makers.
This season, MTC has partnered with several renowned local breweries, bringing the taste of Manitoba directly to the audience. In collaboration with Torque Brewing, Nonsuch Brewing Co., Barn Hammer Brewing Co., and Little Brown Jug, the theatre
now offers a curated selection of craft beers. These partnerships not only showcase the province’s growing craft beer scene but also support Manitoba’s independent brewers, helping them reach new audiences.
In addition to beer, MTC has introduced a selection of spirits sourced from its neighbors at Patent 5 Distillery. Known for their artisanal, locally produced spirits, Patent 5 adds a new dimension to the theatre’s drink offerings. The inclusion of these locally made beverages ensures that MTC’s lobby becomes a celebration of local craftsmanship, allowing patrons to unwind and savor the flavours of Manitoba’s best.
But it’s not just about drinks. MTC has also teamed up with Cocoa Beans, a local gluten-free bakery, to offer fresh, mouthwatering baked goods. Cocoa Beans’ creations are sure to satisfy and allow patrons with allergies to enjoy a treat while they’re at the theatre. These sweet treats enhance the overall theatre experience, adding an extra layer of enjoyment.
This season, MTC has taken its commitment to the community even further by partnering with Fête Ice Cream, a local favorite known for its creamy, handcrafted ice cream. Fête’s flavours, made with the fin-
est ingredients, are sure to resonate with audiences looking for a special treat. While Waitress was on the Mainstage, Fête crafted four specialty ice cream flavours inspired by pie recipes in the show. This added touch had theatregoers raving and allowed for further immersion into the musical.
These carefully chosen collaborations reflect MTC’s dedication to supporting local businesses and fostering connections within the community. By featuring locally produced products in the theatre’s lobby, MTC helps strengthen the ties that bind the community together, creating a shared experience that extends beyond the performance. It serves as a reminder that the theatre is not just a venue for storytelling; it is a place for people to come together, share their love of art, and support one another.
For MTC, theatre is both an art form and a way to celebrate the spirit of community. The theatre’s locally inspired menu is one more way to bring people together, whether they’re enjoying a locally brewed beer, a delicious ice cream cone, or a fresh baked good. Through these unique offerings, MTC enhances the theatre experience and gives patrons the opportunity to taste the very best that Manitoba has to offer.
Horn Player Ken MacDonald, Story-teller Jodi Contin and the WSO. Photo by Matt Duboff.
17 Wing and military connections in St. James
Fred’s 70th article about St. James and its people
To celebrate the 100th Anniversary of St. James (starting just west of St. James Street to Sturgeon Road) breaking away from Assiniboia to form their own municipality, I am doing street profiles. This column features 17 Wing.
The RCAF connection to Winnipeg dates back to 1922. On October 1, 1950, 17 Wing was created to administer and control 402 Squadrons. After the 1968 unification of the Canadian Armed Forces, the title 17 Wing was no longer used. On April 1, 1993, Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Winnipeg became home once again to 17 Wing.
The CFB 2,900 people, including 650 civilians, in Winnipeg1 17 Wing currently has buildings on both sides of Whytewold (Whurri) and as far east as Air Force Way. One real treasure is Air Park at the end of Air Force Way. Air Park is an outdoor museum featuring 13 aircraft. With the help Voix Air Newspaper archives, this story will celebrate a few recent memories of 17 Wing and the Canadian Military in St. James.
ed out at the March 1, 2008 Military Tribute Night. At the game, the 60th Anniversary of the Ottawa RCAF Flyers winning the Gold Medal at the 1948 St. Moritz Switzerland Winter Olympic was celebrated. Quad City defeated the Moose 3-2 in a shoot out
In December 2018, the City of Thompson awarded Master Corporal Brent Thompson of 17 Wing a Certificate of Appreciation for his contributions to the military. Thompson carried the Eagle Staff at the 100th Anniversaries Remembrances of the 1917 Battle of Passchendaele in Belgium and the 1918 WW1 Armistice in Vimy France. The Eagle Staff honours the contributions of Indigenous Canadians to the military.
During the 1990s, the 17 Wing Fire Fighters became involved with the Boot Drive. In 2022, the Boot Drive raised $3,330 in support of MS. Master Corporal Jason Loboz organized the fundraiser. Crystal Rondeau was the Honorary Ambassador.
In October 1992, the City of Winnipeg awarded the Freedom of the City Award to CFB in recognition of the Base's contribution to Winnipeg.
Winnipeg sports teams have regularly held military appreciation nights. On March 10, 2007, the Manitoba Moose defeated the Iowa stars 3 to 1. Monica Bradley, Charlie Bouchard, Angus Watt, and Chris Gauthier took part in the ceremonial face-off in front of 1,300 military people who attended the game. Gauthier who was injured in Afghanistan, dropped the puck. The Canadians (at that time 46) who lost their lives in Afghanistan were remembered.
The following season, the Moose visited 17 Wing to take a team photo in front of a C-130 Hercules plane. The picture was made into posters which were hand-
In 2021, Matt Hamilton, Stacey Thiessen, and Colleen Preston of Building 90 organized Valentines for Vets. Valentines for Vets had started in 1989 by Advice Columnist Ann Landers.
On May 26, 2022, Shaugnessy School hosted the 25th Anniversary of the 1997 Flood of the Century. The ceremony commemorated the efforts of the military during the flood. Dennis Tabbernor, the Commanding Officer of the 38 Brigade during the Flood, was the guest speaker.
Ben Van Ruitten was the Honourary Colonel of 17 Wing for 13 years. Ben was born in the Netherlands in 1920. After enduring the World War 2 Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, Ben emigrated to Canada. Ben owned Florist Supply. During his time as Honourary Colonel, Ben visited the Netherlands on the 60th Anniversary of VE Day.
In 2008, Premier Gary Doer created
the position Special Envoy for Military. The envoy attends the military public events and deals with issues specifically affecting the Military. Bonnie Korzeniowski was the first Special Military Envoy. Bonnie had been part of her family's military postings in Germany and Ontario. Three other MLA's with ties to St. James have served as the Special Envoy. Deanne Crothers and Scott Johnston represented St. James Assiniboia ridings. Andrew Swan actually represented Minto, a West End Riding. However, Andrew grew up in Silver Heights just down the road from the Base.
This is the final of the 70 articles of the St. James (as the municipality existed between 1921-66) Street Series. I have mentioned over 2,000 people. I will likely continue to update these stories. I am considering making these stories into a book.
2025 Federal Election an ignored issue
After the 2018-21 Greyhound withdrawal of their bus service from Canada, many gaps were created in our transportation system. Many trips that were made a decade ago with 40 to 50 people in one bus are now being made using 20 to 25 vehicles. There is obviously an environ-
mental connection to this issue.
New and other existing transportation companies have filled some of these transportation gaps. What about the gaps that remain? As Canadians figure out who will be Prime Minster in the latter half of this decade, we should remember that we soon be electing 341 other MP's. As the candidates for these 341 seats canvas their ridings, the candidates will be reminded of these recently created gaps in our transportation system. The new Parliament should use the input of all MPs to figure out how to restore our transportation system at least to the level that we enjoyed a decade ago.
I have reached out to 150 current MP's from all provinces and political parties. Zero replies.
I thought that the lack of interest in the Arlington Street Bridge Issue was unacceptable. In order to work, travel, keep medical appointments, and socialize, Canadians have to be able to get there. I will keep our readers updated on this issue in the next few stories.
Notes:
1. Source: 17 Wing History Government of Canada Web Site.
Fred Morris is a Grandfather, Sports Fan and Political Activist.
Warkov-Safeer a throwback to days of long ago
Step into Warkov-Safeer on Hargrave in the Exchange District and you will feel like you have walked back in time to an earlier era.
The shelves are crammed full of shoe-related accessories – soles, heels, laces, polish, threads, needles, dyes – and other leather-related needs.
“There used to be a shoemaker on every corner,” says Michael Usiskin whose family has operated the wholesaler for more than 50 years. “People used to keep their shoes for years. They might resole them ten times. Now you might have five pair in your closet, different shoes for different occasions and you buy a new pair every year or two.”
Usiskin adds, “There is no place else like us between Toronto and Vancouver. When we moved here in the 1970s, this area was buzzing with garment workers and sewing machines. This was a hub of activity. It’s a lot quieter now.”
Selkirk and Main.
“Our dad was maybe 16 or 17 when he went to work for Warkov-Safeer in 1939,” Michael Usiskin notes. “He would do deliveries on his bike to shoe repair shops.” He never left.
While the Usiskin family has been connected with the company 85 years, Michael Usiskin points out that the company, originally catering to the horse trade, was actually founded in 1930 in Winkler by the eponymous Warkov brothers, Jacob, Mendel and Morris, and their brother-in-law, Barney Safeer. Larry Usiskin, father of Michael and his brother and partner Arnie, went to work for the company in 1939, four years after the partners moved the business to Winnipeg to a location at
Michael Usiskin relates that, during the war years, the company relocated to larger premises at King and Bannatyne to accommodate a growing demand for its expanding product lines.
Larry Usiskin bought the business, with a partner, in 1969. It was not a given that either Michael or Arnie would join the family endeavour. Michael was the first of the brothers to come on board. That was in 1984.
Michael had been working for Videon Public Access TV for the previous seven years. “I was a producer, editor and camera man,” he recalls.
Among the programs he worked on such classics as “Math with Marty” and Natalie and Ronne Pollock’s show.
“Dad began talking about retirement,” Michael recounts. “With budget cuts and lay-offs coming to Videon, it was a good time for me to get out and join dad in business.”
Michael became Warkov-Safeer’s managing partner in 1995 on the senior Usiskin’s retirement. Ar-
nie joined his brother in partnership in 1998.
“I had been working for CBC for 17 years as a technician,” Arnie relates. “A confluence of events presented me with the opportunity to go into the family business.”
Although Arnie bought out Michael’s previous partner, he continued on at CBC for another four years before accepting a buyout.
“I went from show business into shoe business,” he jokes.
Today, Warkov-Safeer has customers from Ontario to the West Coast. “Things have changed considerably over the years for our business,” Michael notes. “Our shoe market is now solely more expensive brands. And we also supply a lot of leather and leather-related products for hobbyists.”
He reports that a lot of their marketing has long been by word of mouth. “We used to go to a fair number of trade shows, but not so much anymore,” he adds. “We now have a number of sales representatives throughout Western Canada and Ontario.”
“We’re not high tech,” Arnie points out. “We have a niche market. What we sell is a form of recycling – allowing people to look after and fix their shoes. We see a trend developing in this area.”
While Arnie and Michael Usiskin have no plans to retire quite yet, they do acknowledge they are not getting any younger and would welcome someone younger to come into the business and might be willing one day to lead Warkov-Safeer into the future.
Fred's favourite plane in the park.
Myron Love
Fred Morris From the desk of a gadfly
Artificial Intelligence in Manitoba, Canada
Manitoba stands on the cusp of a technological revolution as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to integrate into various aspects of daily life and industry. AI is no longer a distant concept; it is here, and its impact is inevitable. The province and its people must adapt and plan, or risk being left behind in an era where technology drives progress and innovation. The impact of AI will be profound, as it is everywhere, planetwide, spanning all sectors and promising to entirely reshape the economic and social landscape of the capital city, Winnipeg, and the province at large, whether we are ready or not.
However, the successful adoption of AI in Manitoba requires a well-defined policy roadmap that brings together government, Crown agencies, research institutions, business organizations, and labour unions. A province-wide coordinated and cooperative strategy, building on those that were created by Economic Development Winnipeg, and other entities, is essential to ensure that Manitoba fully leverages AI's potential while addressing challenges such as workforce adaptation, infrastructure requirements, and ethical considerations. Labour unions must play an active role in ensuring that workers are protected, training programs are implemented, and job reallocation strategies are developed to ease the transition.
Healthcare is one of the most promising sectors for AI adoption. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of medical data to detect patterns and predict patient outcomes more accurately than traditional methods. This can lead to earlier and more precise diagnoses, particularly in complex cases such as viruses, cancer, and heart disease, three areas in which Manitoba excels in research infrastructure. AI-driven tools can also help personalize treatment plans based on genetic information and historical data, ensuring that patients receive the most effective therapies. Beyond diagnostics, AIpowered patient monitoring systems can track vital signs in real-time, alerting healthcare professionals to potential complications before they escalate. Wearable AI devices can empower patients to take a proactive role in managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, providing continuous feedback and personalized recommendations. These advancements have the potential to enhance patient care, improve long-term outcomes, and reduce the burden on healthcare facilities.
The educational sector in Manitoba stands to benefit significantly from AI-driven personalized learning experiences. Intelligent tutoring systems can adapt to individual students' learning styles, pace, and preferences, enhancing engagement and improving educational outcomes. However, to fully integrate AI into education, collaboration is needed between school boards, government departments, and technology developers to establish clear policies and investment frameworks that support AI adoption.
In the transportation sector, Manitoba’s strategic position as a major logistics hub will greatly benefit from AI-driven efficiencies. CentrePort, a Crown agency in Manitoba, offers a unique opportunity to leverage AI in intermodal transportation—optimizing the coordination of rail, truck, and air freight services to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce costs. AI algorithms can analyze shipment patterns, forecast demand, and streamline warehouse management to improve the overall operational flow and minimize delays. By partnering with CentrePort, policymakers and business leaders can develop AI-driven strategies to bolster Manitoba’s reputation as a key logistics gateway in North America.
Manitoba’s manufacturing sector is poised to benefit from AI through increased automation, predictive maintenance, and improved supply chain management. AI-powered robots can perform repetitive and hazardous tasks, increasing productivity and reducing the risk of workplace injuries. To support the industry, Manitoba’s economic development agencies must expand incentive programs and training initiatives to facilitate the transition to AI-driven manufacturing.
Agriculture, a significant industry in Manitoba, is already working on leading edge AI farming tech via EMILE and can further leverage AI to enhance productivity and sustainability. Manitoba’s services sectors, such as accounting, finance, and hospitality, are already moving to embrace AI, with companies like JasperVOCAL in the early stages of robot-driven client engagement.
AI holds immense importance for the city of Winnipeg and the province of Manitoba, promising to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life for residents. However, these benefits will not materialize without a comprehensive AI-enabling policies that address key areas such as workforce readiness, infrastructure investment, and public awareness. Additionally, ethical considerations, such as transparency, bias prevention, and data security, must be core components of this roadmap to ensure responsible AI implementation.
One of the critical considerations for the widespread adoption of AI is the availability of energy to power data centers and AI infrastructure. Winnipeg and Manitoba are uniquely situated to meet these energy needs, thanks to the province's abundant hydroelectricity. Manitoba also has a rich history in nuclear energy research and production, with past initiatives laying the foundation for potential future development. Developing nuclear energy alongside hydroelectric power can ensure a stable, reliable, and environmentally responsible energy supply to support AI's energy-intensive demands, particularly in data centers that require continuous, high-density computing power. A coordinated effort between Manitoba Hydro, nuclear energy stakeholders, research institutions, and AI developers is essential to ensure a sustain-
Politicians on politicians
Ihave never bothered to count the scores of politicians or those in public office I have met, introduced or otherwise spent time with. Most I have admired and respected. Some have barely left any memorable mark in our history and are long forgotten. And then, there are those who have been little more than bumbling idiots who, for the most part were unable to find good gainful employment anywhere else in the workplace. Or if they did, they bounced from job to job proving they weren’t very good at those either. Still, in the end, they were elected by the people.
will read the following as ‘truth in humour’:
Everything is changing. People are taking their comedians seriously and the politicians as a joke.
I have never written about politicians. There are already more than enough people doing that. Now more than ever, I would argue. However, much has been written about our civic, provincial and federal leaders that is on the lighter side.
I haven’t included the authors’ names after the following quotes as they are often incorrect.
Included among them though are: presidents, prime ministers, Napoleon, Socrates and Plato. I hope most people
Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on or imbeciles who really mean it.
We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office.
We believe that to err is human. To blame it on someone else is politics.
A lot has been said about politics; some of it complimentary, but most of it accurate.
I don't make jokes. I just watch the government and report the facts.
Under every stone lurks a politician.
The problem with political jokes is they get elected.
Politicians and diapers must be changed often, and for the same reason.
Politics is supposed to be the second oldest profession. I have come to realize that it bears a very close resemblance to the first.
One of the penalties for refusing to par-
able energy roadmap, but the work must begin now.
If Manitoba fails to develop and implement a comprehensive AI strategy, the province risks falling into economic stagnation. Without strategic investments in AI, businesses will struggle to keep pace with global competitors who are rapidly adopting automation and datadriven decision-making, leading to job losses, declining productivity, and shrinking investment opportunities. The absence of AI integration will widen the digital divide, leaving Manitoba's workforce underprepared for the demands of an increasingly automated economy, resulting in higher unemployment rates and social inequality. Critical infrastructure, from transportation to healthcare, could become outdated and inefficient, further straining public resources and reducing the quality of life for residents. As other regions capitalize on AI to attract new businesses and talent, Manitoba could face a greater brain drain, with skilled workers and innovators relocating to jurisdictions that offer more forward-thinking opportunities. Inaction will ultimately leave the province far behind, struggling to adapt to the sweeping changes AI brings to the global economic and social landscape.
To achieve the full potential of AI, Manitoba must establish province-wide strategic policies that define clear goals, identify key stakeholders, and outline actionable steps. The province may require a coordinated entity, an AI Czar of sorts, that can be empowered to create such policies and quickly move AI innovation forward while addressing societal concerns such as job displacement and data privacy. This also means investments in AI infrastructure, such as high-speed internet, cloud computing facilities, and AI research hubs, to support the widespread adoption of AI across industries.
When compared with other provinces and regions, Manitoba has a strategic advantage due to its energy production assets and cold weather, which favour large computing centers. However, failure to act swiftly may result in the province losing its competitive edge. The impact of AI in Manitoba is multifaceted, with the potential to transform our way of life. AI is not a distant future—it is here, and it is reshaping the world. Manitoba must act decisively to embrace AI. The opportunity to become a leader in the digital economy is within reach, but only if the province and its leadership rise to the challenge through well-coordinated and forward-thinking AI-specific policies.
Romel Dhalla is Managing Director of Blumont Business Acquisition Partners and President of Dhalla Advisory Corp. He was a portfolio manager and investment advisor with two major Canadian banks for 17 years. Romel provides strategic corporate finance advice to companies and high net worth individuals. Contact him at romel@dacorp.ca. Any views or opinions represented in this article are personal and belong solely to the author and do not represent those of people, institutions or organizations that the owner may or may not be associated with in professional or personal capacity, unless explicitly stated. Any views or opinions are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, or individual.
ticipate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.
He’s a politician who is so afraid of the consequences of air pollution, he’s cancelled six of his speeches.
I won’t say how badly he was beaten but I hope he was covered by landslide insurance.
Isn’t it too bad that all the people who know how to run the country are too busy teaching school, writing editorials, driving taxis or cutting hair.
It is not necessary to fool all the people all the time. A simple majority will do.
You don’t have to fool all the people all the time – just the 30% who vote.
I love to visit Ottawa – if only to be near my money.
He introduced a bill to create 5 million jobs. He proposed to build a bridge across the St. Lawrence River – lengthwise.
Ever wonder what politicians do to celebrate Labour Day?
Don’t be too hard on politicians. Many of them are doing the work of two men –Laurel and Hardy.
I like political jokes … unless they get elected.
It’s at the point now where the government is too big to be left to the politicians.
The government is the only known vessel that leaks from the top.
Public office is the last refuge of the incompetent.
Politics is the only profession for which no experience is thought necessary.
The difference between a politician and a statesman is: a politician thinks about the next election and a statesman thinks of the next generation.
I once said cynically of a politician, he’ll double-cross that bridge when he comes to it.
During a campaign the air is full of speeches and vice versa.
In politics the choice is constantly between two evils.
Once businessmen are appointed to public office they run the government like nobody’s business.
Democracy is being allowed to vote for the candidate you dislike the least. There is never as much lying as there is before and election and after a fishing trip.
When a clown moves into a palace, he doesn’t become a king. The palace becomes a circus.
And certainly, by the time you read this no matter where you go all you have to say is, “He’s an idiot”. And anyone in the world will know who are talking about. Listen to Jim’s podcasts and many others online at Lifestyles 55 Digital Radio.
Jim Ingebrigtsen
Romel Dhalla On The Money
Sri Lankan seniors
Minister Hon. Terry Duguid: recognized the services to the Sri Lankan Community
During my tenure as the President (2015/2016) of the Sri Lankan Association of Manitoba, I was introduced to The Hon. Terry Duguid who is now the Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada. The introduction came through Athula Rajapaksa, Immediate Past President of SLAM, Shrima and Peter Bastians the owner of Taste of Sri Lanka. Terry came to meet him on June 23, 2017.
On Nov. 8-11, 2017, Terry was nominated for a visit to Sri Lanka with the Canada Sri Lanka Parliamentary Friendship Group but Terry was unable to accept the invitation due to pressing demands in Parliament.
In 2017, the Most Ven. Tirikunamale Ananda Thera, the Chief Incumbent of the Siri Vajiraramaya Temple, Bambalapitiya, Sri Lanka visited Winnipeg. Mahanayake Thera greeted as Swagatham. Terry was there and answered in Sanskrit, saying, “Swagatham” which means “welcome” in English.
T”en Mananayake Thera asked Terry how he came to know Sanskrit. Terry said that he was a Sanskrit scholar at the University of Manitoba.
Terry praised my services to the community. He awarded two certificates for me. The first acknowledgement was at the Sri Lankan New Year ceremony held on April 21, 2018 organized by SLAM at the Canad Inn. Gishali, the President, took a Board decision to award Terry’s certificate as Immediate Past President of SLAM at the above occasion.
The second occasion was Dec. 11, 2022, when Terry selected me as a recipient of the Platinum Jubilee Community Leadership award.
Luncheon Meeting: With Akbo’s Parents - Nimal & Lalani
Our friend, Akbo Rupasing, told me that his parents (Nimal and Lalani) are staying with him in Winnipeg. I was attached to Mahaweli River Development Project and Akbo’s father was also attached to Mahaweli affiliated organization named as Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau. A small farmer under this project was allocated two and half acres, irrigated, and a half acre homestead was allotted for rice cultivation. Around 250,000 acres of new land was set aside for 125,000 small farmers. Their efforts annually generated 2.5 terawatt-hours of renewable energy worth nearly Rs. 50 billion. This is among the most visionary climate resilience programs in the world. Although I do not know Nimal personally, his close friends are mutual friends of mine in CECB and other Mahaweli line agencies. Akbo’s wife, Gayamini, prepared a high table lunch for me. Nimal, Lalani and I had a luncheon meeting discussing our common friends in Mahaweli such as: (1) Konara Wanigasekara who volunteered with me in Dharmavijaya Foundation. (2) When Karunasena Hettiarachchi, was the Chairman, Central Environmental Authority, I worked with
him. (3) Nihal Rupasinghe and Mahinda Panapitiya join with us (Chandani & I) for Dhamma discussions. (4) Athula Galkatiya, Chairman, Airport & Aviation Sri Lanka, helped me to obtain a Paper to read it at the proposed seminar on “Colombo-Winnipeg Aviation History”. Chandani did not attend for this lunch invitation due her dry cough. Therefore, I connected with Lalani via my iPhone as both were in same school, Visakha Vidyalaya (Girl’s School), Colombo.
Annual Christmas Events
The Sri Lankan Association of Manitoba completed its 40th annual Christmas Event which was held at Victoria Inn Hotel and Convention Centre on Dec. 21, 2024. It started at 5.30 pm.
Main items of the itinerary were as follows:
(1) Welcome Speech: Nanadika Bandara, President, SLAM
(2) Christmas Carol Songs: Sri Lankan Seniors Manitoba sung four songs (two Sinhala songs, one Tamil and one English songs)
(3) Santa Claus: Mainly with children, elders and seniors too
(4) Raffle Draw: For the benefit of the participants
(5) Sit-down Dinner: Three course meal
(6) Dance Floor: Opened for dancers whereas others mingled with each other Seniors’ Christmas Get-together
The Sri Lankan Seniors Manitoba
conducted its annual Christmas gettogether Jan., 2025 with participation of 30 members at Access Fort Garry on Plaza Drive.
As an annual formality, the Christian members of SLSM organized this event. They started with the Seniors’ theme song of. All participants sang together in high spirits. The organizing committee had included a few games to obtain the participation of all attendees. The game called Blind Man’s Bluff was one of the interesting recreations among our members.
It is commendable to note that the organizers purchased sarees, bed sheets, towels and shawls with branded names. They have carefully selected miscellaneous gifts for seniors from different varieties such as perfumes, soaps, makeups and chocolates. They planned to offer one present for each attendee.
SLSM sang four carols conducted by their mother organization, the Sri Lankan Association of Manitoba, on Dec 21, 2024. Out of the same set of songs only two were sung at this event.
On the well-designed schedule the last event was to serve lunch with veg and non-veg option followed with dessert including sweets and fruits. My wife Chandani did not attend as she was not well. Therefore, they packed and gave me a veg meal for her. Similarly, a lunch pack was shared with such absentees. Tea and coffee arranged just after lunch.
Reconciliation and the death of truth
Was Murray Sinclair reconciled with the knowledge that Truth would be joining him in the grave? The plan is to bury Truth by destroying the recorded testimonies given by residential school survivors.
Sinclair has referred to what happened at residential schools as being horrendous. Are individual stories too horrendous for Canadians to hear? Hiding these testimonies is the erasure of proof of what happened. These stories give specific details of one of the darkest chapters in this country's history, when our government and various religious institutions participated in torture, abuse, and genocide.
viewing government documents, this commission estimated more than 50,000 children died in various residential schools in Canada.
Psychologists explain to us, the main goal in these schools was to prevent children from maturing into independent and responsible adults. The deliberate physical, sexual, and mental abuse was effective in maintaining students as immature beings who are afraid to make their own judgments and fight their own battles. This ensures these victims will perpetually be dependent on the system.
The Truth Commission into Genocide in Canada is stating, Canada’s “hidden history reveals a system whose aim was to destroy most native people by disease, relocation and outright murder, while ‘assimilating’ a minority of collaborators who were trained to serve the genocidal system.” After re-
If the Canadian federal government had not prevented the class action suit by residential school survivors from proceeding, transcripts of survivors’ testimonies, being official court documents, would now be available to anyone who requests them. Along with these stories, the public would also have access to defence statements given by government officials and the various religious institutions. Our government has allowed those who ran these schools to bury their guilt and get off scot-free.
Historians tell us Truth does not easily die. We may not get all the stories from Canadian residential school survivors, but there are enough books and documentaries from not only Canada, but also from many other countries, which expose the abuses of children by various governments and religious institutions. The historical evil done in the name of religion is coming to light and the malevolence of megachurches is being exposed. Evidence given by some of our most highly educated scientists such as Neil deGrasse Tyson and Richard Dawkins, are giving us sufficient proof that all religions are fairy tales and there are no gods.
There are many court documents, official investigations, and Grand Jury reports from
around the world which give details of not only physical, mental, and sexual abuse; but also enforced slavery, torture, and outright murder. Not just Ireland, but information is easily obtained about the abuse of children and the use of slave labour in Canada at Good Shepherd Laundries. Documentaries such as Spotlight and Sinners, as well as books such as William Lobdell’s LOSING MY RELIGION, and books by Naomi Klein, Sam Harris, Bertrand Russel, Joseph Atwill, Gerald Massey, Robert G. Ingersoll, Ria Croll, and Christopher Hitchens are pushing Truth out of the grave despite governments and megachurches trying to keep Truth buried. All over the world, more and more people are throwing off their chains of religious beliefs and superstitions and finally freeing themselves, physically, and mentally.
In his books, Alfred Adler, one of the founding fathers of modern psychology, tells us religion is a form of mental illness. He describes religion as delusion and paranoia. Deep down inside, religious people do not have a true belief in gods, heaven, nor hell; the truth is, these people are so afraid not to believe, they make futile efforts to convince themselves that they do believe. Trying to convince themselves of something that does not make logical sense is driving them crazy.
Over the years, cries for help coming from children in government backed institutions continually fell on stopped-up ears. Government officials, church authorities, and the police repeatedly denounced these victims as liars and troublemakers. These children came to see themselves as power-
less chattels who do not matter to anyone, not even to their parents who never came to save them. No wonder they developed inferiority complexes with feelings of worthlessness. Many have a wish to die, but with the threat of everlasting hell, there are those who are afraid to commit suicide. Falling into a spiral of self-destruction, many will attack innocent individuals whom they see as being weaker than them.
To accentuate how powerless these victims are, charity feeds and clothes them, and philanthropists confirm they cannot do it on their own. These do-gooders provide for them and run their life for them, and these philanthropists are given the title of Saint.
Wayne Douglas Weedon is a Manitoba author who writes a combination of fictional and factual stories, essays, and novels.
Climate change
Hello,
About a month ago, after looking at the Globe, my granddaughter asked me "why Canada does not invade Greenland?" I replied that it is too cold up there to launch such an operation. She was not satisfied with that answer.
Then a few days ago Donald Trump announced that he wants the USA to “acquire” Greeenland. I told my granddaughter that Trump is listening to her or spying on her!
Michael Issigonis
Wayne Weedon Food for Thought
Terry Duguid with Senaka.
Celebrating Christmas.
Senaka Samarasinghe
Life Leases Act – needs improvement, Part 2
There is a significant needs-improvement in The Life Leases Act which creates an education and communication problem for consumers.
One of the essential sections of the Act concerns tenant representation at board meetings. Yes, the landlord’s board of directors is required to invite tenant representatives (chosen by the other tenants) to the board meetings. The Act states that one or two tenant representatives (more if the landlord’s bylaws allow) may attend the meetings; it requires the representatives be given a copy of the Bylaws, and receive notice of the meeting, the agenda and subsequently, a copy of the minutes of the meeting. If part of a meeting deals with personal information pertaining to individual ten-
ants or the landlord’s personnel, the representatives would be excluded only from that part of the meeting.
Lori Blande Life Lease News
The chief failing of tenant representation at board meetings is that tenant representatives do not have a vote. This is not true for all life lease boards, but it is for a large number. The boards that have tenant representatives with full board of director involvement have found the representatives are especially valuable, bringing a new perspective and understanding of the dynamics of their life lease building and contributing positively to board decisions.
Issues are recognized early and any negative effects mitigated or dealt with before they become larger problems. Rapport with the board and the manage-
The Journal
ment company leads to a much smoother relationship and definitely enhances the operation of the life lease as a whole.
The Life Leases Act and Residential Tenancy Act are administered by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) of the Manitoba Government. Unless there is a complaint, by a tenant or their council regarding a landlord’s suspected noncompliance with The Act and/or Regulations, there is no routine communication between RTB and life lease complexes, their landlords or management companies. As a matter of fact, there is no central database listing life lease complexes in the province; no one really knows how many buildings are actually operating under life lease agreements. The MLLOA is trying to compile information but that is another story.
The MLLOA has a mandate to educate and work with its member complexes, holding seminars and training sessions several times a year with speakers on many topics of interest to life lease occu-
pants. The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) is invited on a recurring basis to explain The Act and Regulations and how they impact life lease occupants.
Sadly, there is no provision for or legislation about public education that this writer is aware of. While legislation is essentially designed to protect consumers, it is pretty much up to those same consumers to know their rights and obligations under existing legislation. The downfall to this is that the consumer has to know that the legislation actually exists in the first place.
I hope these articles have given you a peak into The Life Leases Act of Manitoba. There is so much more to The Act that can’t be covered in two short pieces. If you live in a life lease and are looking for more information please contact the Manitoba Life Lease Occupants Association Inc. (MLLOA) at www.mlloa.ca.
Lori Blande is Member at Large, MLLOA and resident of a life lease in Winnipeg.
The following story is part a new feature, a fictional work by our columnist Wayne Weedon, The Journal. Wayne is a brilliant writer whose style consists of simple declarative statements that stick in your mind as he leads you through an intricate web of circumstances to reach the lesson he set out to teach.
Pregnant and deserted by her lover, a young girl moves in with her grandfather. When the baby boy is born, the grandfather agrees to look after him so his granddaughter may go to work. Despite the age difference, the relationship between the boy and his great-grandfather was more like two siblings than that of an adult and child. As this boy grew into a young man, he loved to look back and tell stories about his great-grandfather, whom he always called “Pops”.
Hank, a former Blood Indian from Alberta, gave Pops a journal. Pops gave it to his great-grandson, asking him to read it. It became a lesson in history.
August 1, 1947
The deed is done, she has transformed my house into a boarding school for seven boys and girls, all in their late teens. None had volunteered. Several senior members of the community have convinced these students that furthering their education would be a good opportunity to better their lives. This was only after these seniors came to an understanding what Teacher has been telling us about herd-mentality, which is one of our left-over animal instincts from the days when clinging to the herd gave us protection from predators and enemies. To better our lives, rather than a herd-mentality, we need to adopt an individual-mentality so we can begin planning our own futures according to our own desires and goals. Education is the key for removing the shackles which are keeping people in our community down.
Teacher guarantees, her new students will learn how to think for themselves. They will learn how to plan their own individual lives and to learn how to break away from the chains which bind them to poverty, despair, and feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. These students, according to Teacher, have no idea how to find happiness and contentment in their life because they don’t even know that such things exist. They do not understand that accepting their misery is insane behavior. They must strive for more.
As an example of herd-behaviour, she described a bullfight. The crowd, while sadistically screaming for more vicious torture and gore, work themselves up into an insane frenzy, with many experiencing an uncontrollable sexual urgency. To a civilised, intelligent, and educated alien, this scene would seem bizarre, but to the spectators, they are convinced their conduct is sane because it is the normal behaviour in the grandstands. The crowd does not understand, normal is not necessarily sane.
Teacher questioned the students as they arrived. It became apparent, they are immature, their lives are completely undisciplined, they are unmotivated, and they have no feelings of self-worth. All were acting in a nervous and childish manner, continually laughing, giggling, and making fun of each other.
After an excellent breakfast, served up by Julie Anderson, our new cook, Teacher turned to the students, asking them to wash the dishes and clean up the kitchen. They all looked puzzled while blankly staring at her. However, after Teacher repeated her request, they did as they were told. Housework is to be part of their curriculum.
She handed out a short quiz to test the students’ skills on basic reading, writing and arithmetic. It was just as she had suspected; these young people who were all struggling for answers while doing the quiz, only have a rudimentary education. The students had learned basically nothing in school, and it would be a lot of work and effort to bring them up to an average reading and writing level for their age. Teaching them how to speak proper English is a big challenge, but they also need to learn basic reading, writing, and arithmetic, along with self-discipline, routine, proper hygiene, moral behaviour, and a feeling of self-worth. Feeling good about themselves will be the greatest challenge, but it will give the most valuable rewards.
Teacher optimistically told her new students; they will be brought up to speed and eventually obtain a university entrance level of education. She told them, they are not inferior; they are just as capable and intelligent as anyone.
On the table were various framed prints of landscapes. She asked the students to choose a picture which they liked; one which made them feel calm and content. Most chose pictures of lakes or streams surrounded by flowers and vegetation.
Teacher asked the students to write down the feelings and emotions which their picture invoked and to also write down the name of one person whom they truly loved and trusted. The students appeared to be confused. All of them had a questioning look on their face. After several minutes, she pointed to Esther and asked her to please tell us about one person in her life whom she truly loved and trusted. Esther was mute. After a few minutes, Teacher asked Esther if she had not understood the question. Esther agreed, she did not know what Teacher had meant. Teacher then asked Esther if there was one person whom she loved. Esther looked down at the table and quietly answered in a manner that showed embarrassment; it was her kokum, her grandmother. Teacher then asked Esther why she loved and trusted her grandmother. It took a lot of prodding and prying, but eventually, Esther admitted, she trusted her grandmother because her grandmother always treated her kindly and would always listen to her but never criticize her.
It was painstakingly slow, but after what seemed an eternity, we got through all seven students. Four gave their grandmother as an example, two their sister, and one his brother.
It was a long and agonising day as Teacher carried on with her interrogations. She asked many questions and described various scenarios. She asked the students how they would feel if a friend had committed to come to their house at nine o’clock in the morning so they could do something together, but the friend never showed up. She asked them how they would feel if they found out their friend had changed their mind and instead of seeing them, they went fishing with someone else. After a lengthy discussion, everyone agreed, this friend could not be trusted, and it would be difficult to love someone who treated you like that. She asked the students about the people they gave as examples of a friend they could
love and trust. She asked them why they loved that person and why they trusted them. Finally, the students started to understand that love comes with a price and that unconditional love could very easily die if the person who was receiving the love became untrustworthy. She told them, the need for love is so great in one’s personality that it is common for someone to forgive a person more than once for his or her untrustworthiness, especially if that person apologised and promised to do better the next time. Every student admitted that anticipating when that person would not hold up to their promises would make them very anxious.
Teacher explained, the only person whom you can fully trust is yourself, because the only person you have any control over and the only person you can change is yourself. One may influence someone else, but you cannot control or change anybody but yourself. You must learn how to love and trust yourself. And you must never disappoint yourself.
It was after five o’clock before we sat down to a meal of stewed rabbit, root vegetables, and fresh tea biscuits. Everyone was obviously hungry, proving what she had stated, mental work is the hardest work and uses the most energy. They were obviously famished. The short quiz, followed by an interrogation, had been hard work. After the kitchen was cleaned up, she stated that school was not over, and we went back to class where she asked everyone to flip their picture over. On the backside of each picture was a mirror. She asked everyone to look at themselves in their mirror and to state aloud, “I love and trust you.” Everyone looked at her in shock and confusion. She looked around the table, “Did you not hear me? I asked everyone to look at themselves in the mirror and to simply state as I do, I love and trust you.”
The students blankly stared at her but said nothing. She tried once more, “I am waiting.” Again, nobody did as they were asked. “Okay then, let’s all do it together. Are you ready?” She looked into her mirror and stated, “I love and trust you.” There was much mumbling and fidgeting but it was obvious, the students were not about to do as asked.
Finally, after many minutes of agonising prodding and insistence, Noah, while looking at his mirror, stated in a perfunctory manner, “I love and trust you.” She asked Noah if he truly believed what he was saying. Noah sat with his mouth slightly open, but he would not answer her question. Noticeably, there were tears in his eyes. It took until after ten o’clock before everyone finally affirmed their love and trust for themselves. This agony was not over, Teacher informed them, from now on, they were to do this affirmation several times each day. She told them, what they were learning today is the most important thing they will learn in their lives. She also stated, this simple affirmation would eventually change their lives, forever, telling them, “You will become the person you want to be, and you will get out of life, what you want.”
Wayne Douglas Weedon is a Manitoba author who writes a combination of fictional and factual stories, essays, and novels.
Creative Retirement Manitoba Inc. 204-481-5030, hello@crcentre.ca www.crcentre.ca
WINNIPEG
20 Fort Street Seniors Club
2200-20 Fort Street / FortStSeniors@Shaw.ca
Manitoba Association of Senior Communities
Pembina Active Living (55+)
170 Fleetwood Rd. / 204-946-0839
office@pal55plus.ca / www.pal55plus.ca
Rady Jewish Community Centre
123 Doncaster Street / 204-477-7539
lmarjovsky@radyjcc.com / www.radyjcc.com
GET CONNECTED - JOIN A CENTRE!
Stay Active - Stay Connected
www.manitobaseniorcommunities.ca
ERICKSON
Comfort Drop In Centre 31 Main Street 204-636-2047 / areas@mymts.net
FLIN FLON
Flin Flon Seniors 2 North Avenue / 204-687-7308
A&O Support Services for Older Adults Inc. 200 -207 Donald Street 204-956-6440 / Toll Free: 1-888-333-3121 info@aosupportservices.ca www.aosupportservices.ca
Archwood 55 Plus 565 Guilbault Avenue / 204-416-1067 archwood55@shaw.ca archwood55plus.wildapricot.org/ Bleak House Centre 1637 Main Street / 204-338-4723 bleakhousecentre@gmail.com www.bleakhousecentre.com
Brooklands Active Living Centre 1960 William Avenue W 204-632-8367 / bpscc@mymts.net
Centro Caboto Centre 1055 Wilkes Avenue / 204-487-4597 ext. 1 executivedirector@cabotocentre.com www.cabotocentre.com
Charleswood Active Living Centre A 357 Oakdale Drive / 204-897-5263 info@charleswoodseniorcentre.org www.charleswoodseniorcentre.org
Crescent Fort Rouge 55 Plus 525 Wardlaw Ave. / 204-299-9919 cfruc55Plus@gmail.com www.crescentfortrouge.ca
Dakota Community Centre 1188 Dakota Street / 204-254-1010 ext. 217 seniorresources@dakotacc.com www.dakotacc.com
Dufferin Senior Citizens Inc.
377 Dufferin Avenue / 204-986-2608
Elmwood East Kildonan Active Living Centre 180 Poplar Avenue / 204-669-0750 healthrelations@chalmersrenewal.org chalmersrenewal.org
Fort Garry Seniors Resource Council 200 - 270 Donald Street / 204-792-1913 fortgarry@aosupportservices.ca www.aosupportservices.ca/resources/seniorsresource-finders
Garden City Community Centre Seniors 55+ 725 Kingsbury Avenue / 204-940-6111 facilities@gardencitycc.com www.gardencitycc.com/seniors
Golden Rule Seniors Resource Centre 625 Osborne Street / 204-306-1114 goldenrule@swsrc.ca facebook.com/goldenruleseniors
Good Neighbours Active Living Centre 720 Henderson Hwy / 204-669-1710 admin@gnalc.ca / www.gnalc.ca
Gwen Secter Creative Living Centre 1588 Main Street / 204-339-1701 becky@gwensecter.com / www.gwensecter.com
Headingley Seniors’ Services 5353 Portage Avenue / 204-889-3132 ext. 3 seniors@rmofheadingley.ca www.headingleyseniorsservices.ca
Indigenous Senior Resource Centre Inc. A1- 100 Robinson Avenue / 204-586-4595 executivedirector@isrcwpg.ca www.asrcwpg.ca
Manitoba Korean 55+ Centre 900-150 River Avenue 204-996-7003 / www.ksam.ca
North Centennial Seniors Association of Winnipeg Inc. 86 Sinclair Street / 204-582-0066 ncsc@shaw.ca / www.ncseniors.ca
North Point Douglas Seniors Centre 244 Jarvis Avenue
Rainbow Resource Centre 545 Broadway / 204-474-0212 ext 255 OTR@rainbowresourcecentre.org www.rainbowresourcecentre.org
The Salvation Army Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre 51 Morrow Avenue / 204-946-9153
sheila.keys@salvationarmy.ca
South Winnipeg Seniors Resource Council 117-1 Morley Ave / 204-478-6169 resources@swsrc.ca / www.swsrc.ca
Southdale Seniors 254 Lakewood Boulevard / 204-257-6171 gm@southdale.ca / www.southdale.ca
Sri Lankan Seniors Manitoba 113 Stan Bailie Drive 204-261-9647 / www.srilankanseniorsmb.ca
St. James-Assiniboia 55+ Centre 3-203 Duffield Street 204-987-8850 / info@stjamescentre.com www.stjamescentre.com
Transcona Council for Seniors 845 Regent Ave / 204-222-9879 tcs@mymts.net / www.transconaseniors.ca
Transcona Retired Citizens Org. 328 Whittier Ave. West 204-222-8473 / trco328@shaw.ca
Vital Seniors - 3 St Vital Road 204-253-0555 / stmary@mymts.net www.stmarymagdelenewpg.org
Winnipeg Chinese Senior Association 204-291-7798 / wcsa.wpg@hotmail.com www.winnipegchineseseniors.ca
Y.A.H. Seniors Club
Windsor Community Centre, 99 Springside Dr. 204-233-0648 / yah@windsorcc.ca
BEYOND WINNIPEG
BEAUSEJOUR Beau-Head Senior Centre 645 Park Avenue 204-268-2444 / beauhead@mymts.net
BINSCARTH / RUSSELL
Senior Services of Banner County 204-532-2391 seniorservicesofbannercounty@gmail.com
BOISSEVAIN
Seniors’ Services of the Turtle Mountain Area seniorservicetm@gmail.com / 204-534-6816
BRANDON
Brandon Seniors for Seniors Co-op Inc. 311 Park Avenue E / 204-571-2050 reception@brandons4s.ca www.brandons4s.ca
Health Checks - 204-728-1842 brandonmbhealthchecks.ca healthchecksbrandon@gmail.com
CARMAN
Carman Active Living Centre 47 Ed Belfour Drive / 204-745-2356 www.activelivingcentrecarman.ca
CRANBERRY PORTAGE
Jubilee Recreation of Cranberry Portage Legion Hall 217 2nd Ave. SE / 204-271-3081
CRYSTAL CITY
Crystal City & District Friendship Club Inc. 117 Broadway St. / 431-867-0122 crystalcityfriendship@gmail.com
DAUPHIN
Dauphin Active Living Centre Inc. 55 1st Avenue SE / 204-638-6485 www.dauphinseniors.com
DELORAINE
Deloraine Community Club Inc. 111 South Railway Ave E / 204-747-2846
Seniors’ Outreach Services of BrenWin Inc. 204-747-3283 / sosbrenwin@gmail.com sosbrenwin.com
GILBERT PLAINS
Gilbert Plains and District Community Resource Council Inc. / 204-548 4131 gpdcrc@mymts.net / gpseniors.ca
Gilbert Plains Drop In Centre 22 Main Street North / 204-548-2210
GIMLI
Gimli New Horizons 55+ Centre 17 North Colonization Road 204-642-7909 / gimli55@mts.net www.gimlinewhorizons.com
GLADSTONE
Gladstone Seniors Inc.
32 Morris Ave. North / 204-385-2205
GRAND MARAIS
Grand Marais & District Seniors 36058 PTH 12 / gmdseniors@gmail.com www.gmdseniors.ca
GRANDVIEW
Grandview Seniors Drop In 432 Main Street / 204-546-2272
HAMIOTA
Hamiota 55+ Centre & Restore Community Co-op Inc. 44 Maple Avenue / 204-764-2658
KILLARNEY
Killarney New Horizons Centre 520 Mountain Avenue www.killarneymbseniors.ca
Killarney Service for Seniors 415 Broadway / 204-523-7115 seniorservice@killarney.ca
LA BROQUERIE and STE. ANNE Seine River Services for Seniors Inc./ Services Rivière Seine pour aînés Inc. 93 Principale Street / 204-424-5285 src@seineriverservicesforseniors.ca seineriverservicesforseniors.ca
LUNDAR
Lundar Community Resources 35 Main Street / 204-762-5378 lcrc@mymts.net
MANITOU
Pembina Community Resource Council 315 Main Street 204-242-2241 / pembinacrc@gmail.com
MINNEDOSA
Minnedosa Senior Citizens Assoc. 31 Main Street S 204-867-1956 / mdsasca@gmail.com
MORDEN
Morden Activity Centre 306 N Railway Street / 204-822-3555 mordenactivitycentre@gmail.com www.mordenseniors.ca
NEEPAWA Neepawa Drop In Centre 310 Davidson Street / 204-476-5103 Neepawa-dropin@outlook.com www.neepawa.ca/district-drop-in-center
NOTRE DAME DE LOURDES Club D’age Dor Notre Dame ndslchezsoi@gmail.com / 204-248-7291
PILOT MOUND
Pilot Mound Fellowship Centre 203 Broadway Avenue / 204-825-2873
PLUMAS
Plumas Seniors Citizens Club Inc. 102 White Street / 204-386-2029
PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE
Herman Prior Senior Services Centre 40 Royal Road N. / 204-857-6951 hermanpriorcentre@gmail.com www.hermanprior.com
Portage Service for Seniors 40A Royal Road N. / 204-239-6312 psfsmeals@shaw.ca portageservicefors.wixsite.com/psfs
RIVERTON
Riverton Seniors Activity Centre 12 Main Street / 204-378-5155 rdfc@mymts.net / www.rivertonfc.com
SANDY LAKE
Sandy Lake Drop In Centre 100 Main St. / 204-585-2411
Municipality of Harrison Park - Age Friendly Initiative Committee 204-585-5310
SELKIRK
Gordon Howard Centre 384 Eveline Street / 204-785-2092 executivedirector@gordonhoward.ca www.gordonhoward.ca
SNOW LAKE
Snow Lake Senior Centre 71 Balsam Street 204-358-2151 / snowsrs@mymts.net
SOUTH JUNCTION Piney Regional Senior Services 204-437-2604 / lgdseniors@gmail.com
ST. LAURENT Age Friendly Committee of St. Laurent 204-906-9607
STARBUCK
MacDonald Services to Seniors 204-735-3052 / info@mcdonaldseniors.ca www.macdonaldseniors.ca
STEINBACH
Pat Porter Active Living Centre 10 Chrysler Gate 204-320-4600 / ed@patporteralc.com www.patporteralc.com
STONEWALL
South Interlake 55 Plus 374 1st Street West - Oddfellows Hall 204-467-2582 / si55plus@mymts.net www.si55plus.org
SWAN RIVER Swan River & District Community Resource Council 126 6th Ave N / 204-734-5707 resourcecouncil@srseniorservices.com
Swan River Senior Citizens Centre 702 1st Street North / 204-734-2212
THE PAS The Pas Golden Agers 324 Ross Avenue / 204-623-3663 seniorsthepas@gmail.com
THOMPSON Thompson Seniors Community Resource Council Inc. 4 Nelson Rd. / 204-677-0987 thompsonseniors55@gmail.com thompsonseniors.ca
TREHERNE Treherne Friendship Centre 190 Broadway Street 204-723-2559 / jstate1066@gmail.com
VICTORIA BEACH
East Beaches Social Scene 3 Ateah Road / 204-756-6468 ebssinc1@gmail.com www.ebseniorscene.ca
East Beaches Resource Centre 3 Ateah Road / 204-756-6471 ebresourcec@gmail.com ebresourcec.weebly.com
VIRDEN
Seniors Access to Independent Living 204-851-2761 / sail.cao.2023@gmail.com
WINKLER
Winkler & District MP Senior Centre 102-650 South Railway Avenue 204-325-8964 director@winklerseniorcentre.com www.winklerseniorcentre.com
Taking on the City over snow plowing!
Are you stuck at home, or do you know someone that can’t make it down the street or the sidewalk? We want to hear from you. A coalition of different organizations is launching the 2nd annual S(NO)W Plow Campaign. This Local Campaign seeks Photos and Stories to support better Snow Clearing.
Every winter in Winnipeg people with disabilities and other accessibility barriers face the challenge of navigating our snowy sidewalks and streets. This can make it difficult for many Winnipeggers to get around their community, spend time with family, go to work or other activities. While we know our snowplow operators work very hard this time of year, sometimes things go wrong.
Disability and senior organizations throughout Winnipeg are hoping that your photos and stories can make a difference with our S(NO)W Plow Campaign. Starting today, the coalition is calling on Win-
nipeggers from across all neighbourhoods to share their photos and stories of improperly cleared sidewalks. This can include things like sidewalks that are caved in, streetlights that are blocked by snow, and
Life Lessons from puzzles
The entire table space at our cottage dining table is covered in puzzle pieces, and I am starting to wonder whether this puzzle will be completed. After successfully completing several 3,000-piece puzzles, we decided to tackle a 5,000-piece puzzle. I looked for an art puzzle by an artist whose work I enjoyed, and I eventually found a puzzle at Toad Hall Toys that fit the bill. It is a 5,000-piece puzzle of a painting by Pieter Bruegel the Elder from 1563 entitled “Tower of Babel”. Trying to put together a puzzle with this many beige and light blue pieces will be a huge challenge for our family, and it may not be possible to finish the puzzle before we are entirely frustrated with the whole project. However, in the meantime, I have become fascinated with the artist’s interpretation of the Biblical story of the great grandson of Noah (the builder of the famous ark) who traveled to a great plain in Babylon and decided that he and his fellow travelers should stop and build a tower so high that it reaches the heavens. They start out with great ambition and remarkable cooperation and teamwork and start building a remarkable structure. They all speak the same language and are able to communicate the complex plan for the building and divide the work up to finish the task. The project is going very well, and they become excessively proud of their capabilities and their project. Apparently, they became so filled with hubris and forgot that they had been assigned other duties by God. God was not pleased with this attitude and caused great confusion in the army of builders by suddenly giving the workers many different languages. They were no longer able to understand each other, and the complex project that had started out so well turned into a catastrophe which was never completed.
Trudy Schroeder Random Notes
As I have spent time sorting out the pieces and finding thousands of depictions of tiny people working on various aspects of the construction of the doomed tower, I have had occasion to consider how timely this puzzle is for our world. Humans are capable of such remarkable ingenuity and problem solving. When we work together, we can tackle huge and daunting challenges that one person, no
badly cleared curb cuts. We are a winter city, and no Winnipegger should be stuck at home because of sidewalk snow. Let’s work together to make our city more accessible and inclusive for all, even at the snowiest time of the year. Please share your photos and stories of sidewalk snow obstacles this winter at contact@mlpd.mb.ca. For more information please contact:
Melissa Graham – Manitoba League of Persons with Disabilities melissagraham@mlpd.mb.ca Kirby Cote – Accessible Sport Connection Manitoba mbaaccessiblesport@gmail.com
David Kron – Cerebral Palsy Association of Manitoba davidk@cerebralpalsy.mb.ca Connie Newman – Manitoba Association of Senior Communities
Patrick Stewart – Independent Living Resource Centre Serena Bittner – Transportation Options Network for Seniors Doris Koop – Vision Impaired Resource Network
matter how intelligent, could never resolve working independently. When we are unable to communicate with each other, our capacity for effective problem solving is eradicated.
Humans, like other living beings that can work as societies can accomplish incredible things as a community. Hives of bees and colonies of ants can work together with their community members to build societies and structures that are intricate and resilient. Humans have often demonstrated wonderful capacity to build, invent, heal, educated, and improve life to everyone on earth when there is cooperation, understanding and good will. We seem to be in a very troubled period in which destructive forces of division and acrimony are severely damaging our national and international conversations, our international and national institutions, and the safety of our world.
In her 2004 book entitled Dark Age Ahead, Jane Jacobs recounts the stories of great civilizations that have been centres of learning, technology development, medical advances, and cultural richness.
Through internal flaws in their own society, technological advances by competing nations, or simply chaotic domination by great hordes of marauding savages, the light of civilization can be destroyed, and a previously advanced society can be thrust back into the dark ages. Jane Jacobs warns of the decay of five societal pillars in North America that have severely weakened the structure of our civilization. The specific areas she felt needed renewal and reform were community and family, higher education, science and technology, taxes and government responsiveness to citizen’s needs, and self-regulation by the learned professions. Twenty years after the book’s publication, her concerns seem to be very well founded in the turmoil we see in North America of 2025. We will have to put our best efforts into re-stabilizing our communities and nations to avoid the fatal decline that has damaged many civilizations over human history.
Trudy Schroeder provides project planning and management services to the community through Arts and Heritage Solutions.
The happy puzzle solvers represent how we can work together to solve many world problems.
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