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One of the art pieces done by contributors — people who are currently incarcerated or recently out — in the spring edition of The Inside Scoop, published by the John Howard Society of Manitoba.

The scoop on The Inside Scoop

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

The Inside Scoop is a seasonal magazine which aims to provide a safe, artistic outlet for incarcerated people in Manitoba, or those who have recently been incarcerated

The magazine’s spring edition was published last week by the John Howard Society of Manitoba. It features a collection of visual art, writing, and poetry, and is available online and in print form — upon request — through the organization.

The Inside Scoop published its first issue in 1993, and has been steadily active and growing since — save for a pandemic-related hiatus. Editor Annica Dickens took on the role in 2021 — it’s a duty that comes with her primary position as a literacy instructor.

In the past three years, Dickens has already noticed the bridging effect it has on contributors and readers, both within and outside the justice system.

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Walker to run for vacant LRSD school trustee position

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

Walker to run for vacant LRSD school trustee position

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

Ian Walker is throwing his hat into the ring to become a Louis Riel School Division trustee.

The 43-year-old Norwood Flats resident intends to run in the June 6 byelection in LRSD’s Ward 1 to fill the vacant seat left by former trustee Francine Champagne, who resigned last November after a controversial time in the role.

Walker, an educator for the last 19 years, is a Grade 1 and 2 teacher at Hampstead School in East Kildonan. Married to Sarah, the pair has two children that attend French immersion schools in the division. Walker himself is bilingual.

“Being a teacher and a parent, I have a real commitment to making sure we have a strong education system and strong leadership at the school board level,” Walker said recently, noting he’s been working at Hampstead School for the last 13 years.

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2:01 AM CDT

Photo by Simon Fuller
Ian Walker, pictured here in Armstrong Park on April 16, is running to become a Louis Riel School Division trustee in Ward 1.

Models for the masses

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

Models for the masses

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

Attention modellers young and old — ValourCon is swooping back in to the Royal Canadian Legion, St. James Branch No. 4 (1755 Portage Ave.) on April 26 and 27.

The modelling contest and convention is hosted by International Plastic Modellers Society (IPMS) Winnipeg, also known as the Valour Road Chapter of IPMS Canada, which meets regularly on the second floor of the Legion. On the evening of April 26 and all day April 27 the space will display with more than 140 museum-grade scale models.

The convention began as a small contest amongst the artists, and has since grown into a showcase of modelled art from around the province. Prior to a hiatus brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, ValourCon saw people from nearby provinces travelling long distances to view the work on display.

“The last time that we (did) this, we got up to 200 people dropping in and visiting, not necessarily being active participants, but just being there to see what it was all about,” said Bill Zuk, a member of the group since 1970.

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2:01 AM CDT

Supplied photo
ValourCon visitors pictured during a past iteration. On April 26 and 27, the St. James Legion Branch No. 4 (1755 Portage Ave.) will be lined with over 140 museum-grade models from artists around the province.

It’s backyard birding season

Debbie Ristimaki 2 minute read Preview

It’s backyard birding season

Debbie Ristimaki 2 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

Can you smell it? There is definitely something in the air. The sights, sounds and even the smells have changed and in my book that is called spring, unless of course Mother Nature is playing an extended cruel April’s Fool’s joke on us. Let’s hope that is not the case.

One of the most exciting aspects of spring is the return of the birds. Whether they just stop in for a brief visit or they opt for an extended stay, there are plenty to observe, listen to and explore.

Many would say that the return of the Canada geese is one of the earliest signs of spring and I would generally agree but there are plenty of other species as well including:

• The dark-eyed juncos, with their distinctive songs that sound like a thread of fast-paced chipping sounds. They stop in here for a week or two before continuing their journey to their summer territory.

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Photo by Debbie Ristimaki
The two-toned whistle of the male black-capped chickadee is unique. Some even say it sounds something like “hey, sweetie”.

Learn to sew at Lilax Studio

Carolyne Christie 2 minute read Preview

Learn to sew at Lilax Studio

Carolyne Christie 2 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

If making your own clothes or learning how to correctly hem a pair of pants are skills you want to either gain or brush up on, a new studio has opened up that offers sewing classes for all levels.

“People have a new awareness about the importance of doing things for themselves — be it cooking, baking, home renos or sewing,” said Beth Syrnyk, sole proprietor of Lilax Studios. “For quite some time people have asked me where they can learn sewing, so I decided share my over 30 years of industry experience and open a place where people can meet, learn and sew.”

Lilax Studio is located at 759 Pembina Hwy., at the corner of Stafford Street and Pembina Highway, and offers sewing classes and workshops for all levels of sewists.

“There is a fully equipped sewing studio, including sewing machines, a cutting table, iron and ironing board and all the tools a sewist needs to create,” Syrnyk said.

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2:01 AM CDT

Supplied photo
Beth Syrnyk runs Lilax Studio, a new business that aims to show people how to sew and make their own clothing.

Malnutrition not as uncommon as you think

Lisa Lagasse 3 minute read Preview

Malnutrition not as uncommon as you think

Lisa Lagasse 3 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

According to the Canadian Malnutrition Task Force, malnutrition is a pathological state caused by the inadequate intake of energy, protein and/or nutrients that affects body composition, functional ability and overall health.

Many Canadians believe malnourishment only occurs in Third World countries but close to 46 per cent of patients in Canadian hospitals are at risk of malnutrition and the numbers are even higher in long-term care. In 2021, close to 16 per cent of the Canadian population lived with food insecurity or inadequate supplies of food — and this number has likely risen given the dramatic increases in food costs.

The causes of malnutrition are multi-factorial and are not just related to the price of food. In hospitals and personal care homes, patients are often admitted with poor nutritional status and significant weight loss. In large part, this is because of diseases or conditions such as COPD, advanced dementia, cardiac issues, cancer, neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease, depression, mental illness, swallowing disorders and even poor dentition.

Social isolation is another contributing factor. Seniors and those with disabilities who live alone may not always be motivated to eat regular meals. Some may not be able to prepare meals or have the financial means or social support to help with this task. For some, grocery shopping can be difficult, if mobility is an issue.

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Dreamstime
Social isolation can be a factor in malnutrition, so eating meals with other people can be helpful.

Enjoying the finer things

Laurie Gydé 2 minute read Preview

Enjoying the finer things

Laurie Gydé 2 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

While the tradition of ‘high tea’ dates to Victorian-era England, the idea has expanded beyond British borders and has become increasingly popular around the world. Pinkies pointing to the right while holding a classic bone China teacup, sipping a pekoe and enjoying a sweet treat are the basis of this novelty mid-afternoon delight.

Were you aware high tea also has a French connection in Winnipeg?

Dawn Pilcher, manager of the Norwood Hotel, explained the concept of the hotel’s Sunday afternoon high tea, held weekly at 3:30 p.m. in Pauline Bistro, the hotel’s Parisian-style restaurant.

“Pauline Boutal was the St. Boniface graphic artist who created the Eaton’s catalogue designs which are showcased on the walls of the bistro,” Pilcher said, explaining the origin of the restaurant’s name and its 1920s European flair.

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Supplied photo
The sweet and savoury treats and traditions of high tea can be found at a number of spots in St. Vital and St. Boniface.

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A quick trip around the horn

John Hindle 3 minute read Preview

A quick trip around the horn

John Hindle 3 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

Despite it taking its own sweet time and sharing the odd sprinkle of snow, spring has arrived. The signs are now everywhere.

The Jets are hopefully about to go on a long playoff run and I look forward to seeing the Goldeyes’ new scoreboard in action. Opening day at Blue Cross Park is May 21 (although the team will begin its season on the road on May 9) and ,in the Goldeyes honour, I used a baseball metaphor in the title of this story.

Of course, there are a lot of other activities about to explode into action, including the city’s other sports teams, and festival season is just around the corner.

I have been personally involved with some events noted here:

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Supplied photo
(From left) Heather Smith (Mackie), Jerry Ilchyna, and Jaye Feener (English), pictured at a recent lunch in honour of Ilchyna.

East edition news in brief — week of April 24, 2024

FP Community Review staff 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

Transcona Memorial United requires unwanted bicycles

Following last year’s successful drive to provide bicycles to Ukrainian refugees, Transcona Memorial United Church is at it again.

Donated bikes will be tuned up and donated to Ukrainian refugees in the community who can make use of them.

Anyone with an extra bicycle in running order or which can be easily repaired can contact Bonnie Scott at 204-222-6986 to arrange to drop the bike off or have it picked up.

Finding leaders of tomorrow at Sturgeon Heights

Nellie Kennedy 2 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

The ability to lead is a remarkable trait that benefits the community one serves. When I think about leadership, I picture the talented young people of Assiniboia. The students of Sturgeon Heights Collegiate are no exception; they are leading the pack in community initiatives with compassion and empathy.

Last December, I was honoured to participate in Sturgeon Height’s annual Pros vs. Joes competition, taking part in their very intense rock, paper, scissors tournament. Students earned their places in Pros vs. Joes through a fundraising contest, The Amazing Race. Those who raised enough money in that competition faced off with professional athletes and community leaders in various games for one week. The school’s student body was encouraged to watch the events unfold, and those who did paid a $2 admission fee to watch the various games in the school gymnasium. With their tremendous dedication, the Sturgeon Heights students raised over $50,000 in food and money for families in need during the Christmas season.

I recently learned of another initiative spearheaded by Sturgeon Heights students. The Huskies football team began its own annual tradition after a student manager lost a close friend to cancer. For the past three years, Sturgeon Heights’ annual homecoming game has been dedicated to supporting Cancer Care Manitoba. On game day, all proceeds from 50/50 ticket sales, admission fees and canteens are donated to the Cancer Care Foundation. In total, the Huskies team has raised nearly $10,000 for Cancer Care Manitoba, with some of the donations being made by members of the team.

This month, I invited students from Sturgeon Heights to be acknowledged at the Legislature for their tenacity and strength.

Budget 2024 is paving the way forward

Diljeet Brar 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

Manitoba’s Budget 2024 is paving the way forward in more ways than one. Among our many investments in education, health care and affordability, we put our plan to pave Mollard Road at the top of our infrastructure priorities for the year. The announcement is cause for celebration. For years, many of my neighbours across Burrows have called for this project to make travel to the Sikh Society of Manitoba smoother and safer.

I am deeply proud of our NDP government for understanding the importance of investing in our northwest community.

Our commitment to Mollard Road was only one of the many great announcements delivered by Finance Minister Adrian Sala in our government’s first provincial budget. In it, our team put our campaign promises into action, especially our commitments to rebuild health care and to make life more affordable for you and the Manitobans who need it most.

April has continued to bring good news for our province, from the budget to our rich cultural celebrations.

Budget instills fairness for every generation

Terry Duguid 3 minute read Preview

Budget instills fairness for every generation

Terry Duguid 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

Today, for too many younger Canadians, the promise of Canada — that you can build a good middle-class life and do at least as well as your parents, or better — is becoming harder and harder to achieve.

While there are many reasons for this, including a struggling economy and inflation coming out of the global pandemic, our government is continuing to address important affordability issues again in this year’s budget; that includes renters, first-time homebuyers, seniors, and parents.

Renters deserve protection from steep rent hikes, renovictions, or bad landlords. With our new Canadian renters’ bill of rights and our new tenant protection fund, they won’t have to face these challenges alone.

To address increasing rents, we also need to increase housing supply rapidly. Budget 2024 has an additional $15 billion in loan funding to help build over 30,000 new rental units in Manitoba.

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Supplied photo
Winnipeg South MP Terry Duguid is pictured here near Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

Federal budget misses the mark for Manitobans

Raquel Dancho 3 minute read Preview

Federal budget misses the mark for Manitobans

Raquel Dancho 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is persisting with his record of high taxes and inflationary spending in Budget 2024 while ignoring the needs of Manitobans. Conservatives demanded that Budget 2024 axe the carbon tax on farmers, build homes, not bureaucracy, and fix the budget.

None of these three Conservative demands have been met, and therefore Conservatives will not support this budget. Trudeau’s tax-hikes and half-measures will leave Manitobans struggling with the cost-of-living crisis created by this Liberal government’s irresponsible spending.

In just eight years, Trudeau has racked up more debt than the combined total of every other prime minister in Canadian history. This has fuelled inflation and forced the Bank of Canada to raise interest rates, punishing the finances of families across our province.

The Liberals are failing to address the needs of Manitobans. Since last year, violent crime in Winnipeg has increased. Rent for an average one-bedroom apartment has jumped 26 per cent since 2023. Winnipeg food banks are seeing unprecedented demand with over 50,000 Manitobans visiting a food bank in just one month last year.

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2:00 AM CDT

Federal budget misses the mark for Manitobans

Red River Mutual investing $150,000 in community spaces

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 2 minute read Preview

Red River Mutual investing $150,000 in community spaces

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 2 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

Red River Mutual is inviting folks to spruce things up in their communities.

Applications are now being accepted for the policy-holder-owned insurance company’s Spruce Up Your Story community sponsorship initiative, which is marking its fifth year.

The initiative offers a total of $150,000 to “restore well-worn, but well-loved community spaces across Manitoba and Saskatchewan.” Applicants can apply for up to $25,000 per project, and the program has awarded more than $500,000 to help revive 40 spaces since 2020.

“Each year, for the past four years, we’ve been able to grant $150,000 in total to spruce up and refresh different projects,” said Kailynn Newediuk, Red River Mutual’s marketing and communications manager.

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2:00 AM CDT

Supplied photo
Red River Mutual is investing $150,000 in community spaces through its Spruce Up Your Story initiative, and applications are now being accepted.

Budget improvements coming to St. Vital

Brian Mayes 3 minute read Preview

Budget improvements coming to St. Vital

Brian Mayes 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

I’m sure we’re all happy about the weather being so agreeable this season, as well as the performance of our Winnipeg Jets, who were among the top teams in the NHL heading into the playoffs.

This is also budget season and I’m pleased to report that the City of Winnipeg’s new multi-year budget provides for upgrades in St. Vital.

The 2024 budget, which lays out a fiscal plan for the next four years, was approved by city council in late March. While I was not on the budget working group, I am pleased that many of the projects which I championed are included in the budget:

Recreation centre for Bonavista — This is a top priority for me in the 2022-26 term, and I am pleased to get this breakthrough. The city has allocated $5 million, budgeted for 2025 and 2026, which is about one-third of the total project cost. I hope to work with the local MLA and MP to get this project underway by 2025 or 2026. This new gym, which will be located on a city-owned parcel of land on the north side of Warde Avenue, west of Lagimodiere Boulevard, will serve Bonavista, Sage Creek and Royalwood.

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File photo
In the northern part of St. Vital ward, the state of many gravel lanes remains a source of tension. The City of Winnipeg’s new budget includes funds to address the issue.

Which money type are you?

Christine Ibbotson 4 minute read Preview

Which money type are you?

Christine Ibbotson 4 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

Dear Money Lady Readers,

I often get asked about how to help people deal with money issues, and many Canadians want to know how to change their partner’ habits, especially if they are savers and their partners are spenders.

Our financial decisions are often deeply rooted in what we’ve learned as children, including our past socio-economic status, culture, experiences, and our parent’s attitudes towards money. Let’s face it, life’s expensive – especially nowadays. It’s easy to go into debt without really indulging. We’re all trying to cut back and spend less, but understanding your relationship with money helps you find ways to improve your situations.

Researchers say there are seven distinct money personalities and, of course, some of us may be a combination of a few of these. Let’s look at them:

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2:00 AM CDT

April 24, 2024

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