Lifestyles 55 2025 October Digital by PegasusPublicationsInc

October 2025

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204-947-1807 The debate over Military spending continues

Polymershapes Winnipeg expands by 6,000 SF in CentrePort Canada Carly Edmundson, CEO of CentrePort Canada

olymershapes Winnipeg is the latest business to locate in CentrePort Canada, expanding their operations from 14,000 to 20,000 square feet. On May 20, 2025, Polymershapes officially opened at 55 Durum Drive in West Creek Industrial Park, a modern industrial development in CentrePort Canada, located in the RM of Rosser. This is the third time the Winnipeg location has moved since it opened in 1988, and the first time General Manger Michael Nyczai has moved with company since he started there 24 years ago. Nyczai manages a team of 13 people at Polymershapes Winnipeg, one of 11 locations across Canada. Polymershapes is the premier distributor of plastic sheet, rod, tube, film and associated products. It has been in business since 1946 and today there are 80 locations across North America. “Over the last six years, the business has really morphed into value-add,” said Nyczai. The company has grown from cutting basic plastic

Polymershapes Winnipeg is now located in West Creek Industrial Park in CentrePort Canada. sheets into the right shape and size, to better serving their customers with new equipment that can create finished parts for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in various industries. u 8 ‘Polymershapes Winnipeg'

Teaching our kids to think Jerry Storie

ost of us will have some memory of a teacher’s outsized influence on their own development or on their perception of what is important in our lives and in the world. I, too, had a remarkable English teacher who made me a reader. But the teacher who had the greatest impact on my approach to teaching and what I value about learning and education, generally, came from my grade 8 teacher and our Baldur School principal, Sam Yarmchuk. One June day in 1964, he walked into our classroom and told us to put our science texts and noteu 7 ‘Teaching kids to think'

When an angel passes by

A tasty treat for Thanksgiving!

Inspiring children to think is an important part of their education.

Andrew Balfour: A Manitoban you should know

Fisher River born Andrew Balfour was the founder of the incredible Camerata Nova.

Trudy Schroeder

hese days Andrew Balfour is a soughtafter music clinician, conductor, and composer, but he remembers the people who noticed his musical gifts and helped him to become the extraordinary composer and musician he is today. His first indications that he had a special musical talent came when he was a young singer with the boys’ choir at All Saints Anglican Church in Winnipeg. He was inspired by the music right from the start, and over time he was selected for solos with the choir and won recognition for his performances at the Winnipeg Music Festival. Not only did Andrew make life-long friends in the All Saints Choir, he had the chance to travel and perform in some of the great cathedrals in Europe. For Andrew, music was a place where he felt appreciated and recognized. His talents lead him to learning the trumpet and the trombone and studies in music at the Brandon University and later at the University of Manitoba. u 13 ‘Andrew Balfour'

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October 2025

ISSUES IN THE NEWS

PUBLISHER Pegasus Publications Inc. EDITOR Dorothy Dobbie dorothy@pegasuspublications.net ART DIRECTOR Karl Thomsen karl@pegasuspublications.net GENERAL MANAGER Shauna Dobbie shauna@pegasuspublications.net CONTRIBUTORS Jeff Bereza, Lucille Bruce, Brent Buchanan, Romel Dhalla, Dorothy Dobbie, Shauna Dobbie, Zofia Dove, Conrad Eder, Carly Edmondson, Stefano Grande, Jim Ingebrigtsen, Evelyn Jacks, Kevin Klein, Ian Leatt, Arshdeep Mangera, Paul Moist, Fred Morris, Daniel Raiskin, Seneka Samarasinghe, Trudy Schroeder, Jerry Storie, Marnie Strath, Wayne Weedon. Canadian Publications mail product Sales agreement #40027604 PRINT ADVERTISING Gord Gage • 204-940-2701 gord.gage@pegasuspublications.net SUBSCRIPTIONS If you would like to receive Lifestyles 55, we offer both monthly newspaper and online formats. To place your order, call 204-940-2700. Subscriptions are $36.00 per year, plus tax. American Express, MasterCard, Visa and cheques are accepted. To view a back issue online visit lifestyles55.net Published monthly by: Pegasus Publications Inc. PO Box 47040, RPO Marion Winnipeg, MB R2H 3G9 204-940-2700 Lifestyles55.net

DISTRIBUTION Available at more that 20 rural towns and cities as well as more than 100 locations in Winnipeg. If you would like bulk copies of this publication, contact Gord Gage at (204) 940-2701 or gord. gage@pegasuspublications.net. Also available digitally at whatsupwinnpeg/ lifestyles and on Facebook: Lifestyles55 EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Call Dorothy Dobbie at (204) 940-2716 or email dorothy@pegasuspublications.net for more information and guidelines. Any opinions expressed in columns by our contributors are their own opinions entirely and are not necessarily shared by Pegasus Publications Inc. All information presented by the contributors is the responsibility of the writers. Lifestyles 55 is published monthly. Reproduction in part or in whole is prohibited without seeking permission in writing from the publisher. Copyright Pegasus Publications Inc.

What is the disconnect between the Premier’s wishes and the actual implementation? W

e had an election. Wab Kinew won. He is premier, not just because of his smile and easy podium manner but because he had economic dreams for the province which he shared with us. He does understand that, as he puts it, “the economic horse pulls the social cart”. Yet, his intent and implementation seem to be miles apart. This is not new. I saw the same thing in the previous government and even discovered instances where the ministers and even the premier were outright lied to about key files. Often, they heard, “Yes, minister”, only to discover later that not a single thing had happened as it was understood it would. Where is the disconnect? Why is this happening? We have many smart and dedicated public servants who want to make things happen, who live here and pay taxes and see the deplorable state of our financial situation. Why can’t they change things? Why, when the government and the Premier says, Go, does it take so long to press Start? One reason, I am told, is the system of seniority that plagues the public service. You advance according to years Wab Kinew. Photo courtesy of Embassy and Consulates in of service unless something happens to deliberately inter- Canada. rupt that flow. And when it is interrupted, the consequences are often devastating to the person who has been elevated the mayor. This has been confirmed to me by ministers, both early. One individual that I know personally was elevated to former and sitting, who are frustrated with the system as it a former Premier’s office only to find an atstands but don’t know what to do about it. mosphere of hostility and resistance. This inThese go-betweens place a barrier between dividual eventually ended up demoted with a the public service and the elected representauseless title and sent into isolation where there tives. The system also puts a huge amount of was little influence that could be exerted. power into the hands of a (usually) young This person is no longer with the public sergroup of men and women with no life experivice as is the case with so many other eager, ence and often very bad judgement. Created talented, and energetic individuals who see to preserve power in the hands of the leader, themselves dead-ended and who leave, takthe ultimate effect has been the opposite in ing their talents and energy elsewhere. That many cases. We have all heard about the Gerleaves the lethargic, the personally biased (and ald Butts, the Katie Telfords and the Jenni ByI don’t mean in terms of left or right), the rns who now symbolize this system federally. timid and the mediocre who cannot bear the We know less about the individuals behind threat of real competition. The quality of the the power at the provincial level, but they are public service is degraded. The policy makers just as involved, according to the once chief of lose power because mediocrity is risk-averse staff to a former NDP premier. Dorothy Dobbie and doing nothing, to their minds, is safer Ministers should hire their own staff and than doing anything. ministers should be accountable to follow up It happens in large corporations, too, but there are conse- with the public service to ensure that decisions are followed quences in business because the failures are more quantifi- through in a timely and efficient manner. able. If the inefficiencies are not detected in time, the final Ministers should deal directly with their deputies and consequence is failure of the business. should be able to dismiss those who don’t deliver. Leaders The next layer of resistance is more insidious. This is the should require accountability directly from their ministers. cadre of political staff that surrounds members and ministers The premier must be given ALL the information, not just of all levels of government. At the federal level the numbers what someone deems it appropriate for him to know. Back have ballooned over the past decade, growing by one third up material should be available along with briefing notes so in five years between 2019 and 2024. Ministerial staff rose that there is an easy source for a leader or a minister to examfrom 609 to 815 in that period. Don’t blame the ministers. ine for more detailed information. The hiring is done by the PMO. This centralization of power Timelines should accompany reports. is one of the serious issues facing our democracy and it is Those given the role of overseeing the province’s mandate not limited to the federal government. Provinces have been must have all the information and the authority to demand quick to follow suit. Here in Manitoba, it has become rou- action and results. Anything else undermines the minister. It tine for the leader’s office to hire the political staff who re- undermines the public service, and it undermines democracy. port to the hiring agent in the leader’s office and nominally, I realize this analysis is very superficial, but we have to therefore, to the Premier, not to their minister. But does all start somewhere. In the case of Manitoba, the Premier must the information get to the premier? demand that the Clerk of the Executive Council (who is the In speaking to several current and former staffers from var- head of the civil service) and his ministers be accountable ious political parties, I discovered the same story. They only for their lack of delivery on his instructions. If the economic tell their minister “What he/she needs to know”. That also horse truly drives the social cart, let’s get it out of the barn includes the leader/premier, prime minister and, presumably, and into the fields of action!

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October 2025

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Re-arming Canada: We have to live up How can we do this? to our commitments on defence I n the modern world and in the might have to take on manly jobs in old, it has always been critical for the effort. And kids would have to bea country to be able to defend its come a little less dependent in a big borders, especially if that country has hurry. After all this is what occurred some pretty luscious advantages that in the past and I see no reason why it others may be eyeing. Canada is one of wouldn’t occur again. those countries. I am not suggesting that this is about Over the years, our military has ac- to happen, but we must be prepared quitted itself well, the bravery of our for any event. Rememsoldiers, sailors and airmen, showing ber Pearl Harbour? The what a formidable force they were. Americans didn’t expect Our armaments industry built well and to be attacked by Japan, strong. We manufactured airplanes, either. built ships and submarines and transWhat will it take to get port vehicles and had a vibrant muni- our defence machine back tions and gun industry. In short, our in action? Well, let’s hope production strength of those years and it is not war, and it should the subsequent prosperity it engen- not be war, but we candered is what we have been living on not take the risk of being for the past 80 years, as we gradually unprepared. So, let’s look watched this industry degrade and dis- at this as a priority, even appear. while knowing that we In 1962, we had have to deal with crime, 126,474 armed forces with the cost of living, in a country of 18 milwith too fast an influx lion. Today, we have just of immigrants and a under 55,000 with a reresulting shortage of serve of about 22,000 in housing. a population of 41 milOne thing we can lion. You do the maths. count on is that if we This is clearly insupportare building domestiable. Worse, our equipcally, employment will ment is aging, some of rise. Schools will be it bought second hand, forced to prepare more and some of it inoperyoung people for pracable. tical jobs where we are So, it is time to reproductively engaged in tool, resupply, recruit making tangible things, Dorothy Dobbie and upgrade. And we not just pushing ideas need to do as much of it around a keyboard. as we can do right here And I think they are in Canada. Sadly, we are in a financial ready. Many emerging adults are lookmess that will take realistic thinking to ing for satisfying real labour, being overcome. We cannot have our cake outdoors, producing real things, being and eat it too. While there are dozens able to say with pride, “I built that”. of pressing issues facing the country, it Right now, there is far too much is hard to grapple with the vital need to focus on how people feel, what their replenish and refresh our defenses, but mental state is. I am not saying that the sad truth is, that if we don’t nothing those things are not important, but I else may matter. also know that dwelling on self is deCarney is right in urging action on pressing and demoralizing. Getting this front and correct is saying the actively engaged in doing something procurement needs to be as local and for a higher cause or for someone else domestically produced as possible. is wonderful medicine for the kind of Whether it is realistic to think we will malaise we see in the community tohit the five-percent-of-GDP mark day. promised by him in the short term is Canadians are filled with ingenuity. debatable, but I am fully behind the ef- Our history imbues us with a sense of fort to start moving in that direction. innovation that comes from living in Think of it this way. If war was de- an undeveloped land where every day clared on us tomorrow, what would can be a challenge and you have to we do? We would drop everything to think for yourself to survive. This still come to our defence. We would reduce exists in our North and in many rural our expectations of state, knowing that communities where eking out a living only through sacrifice can we guard leaves us too busy to feel sorry for ourthe state, which, as much as we like to selves. complain about it, is much better than But there is one barrier! Artificial many. Companies would show what regulations need to be dismantled so gearing up really means – not taking that the kind of vigour required can months or years to study the issue, but be applied. We have to remove the to spring into action doing the things cap on petroleum production because we instinctively know need to be done. manufacturing takes large amounts of As they did before, our First Nations energy. We have to enlist meaningful partners would be right there with us, support from Indigenous communities pulling out all the stops in order to pro- and that means training and providing tect our boundaries. jobs so that they can also reap the benWe might face rationing. The envi- efits of a renewed industrial sector. ronment and climate change worries Will all this happen? Hard to tell would be set aside. We might have to because Carney always leaves far too deal differently with health issues to much unsaid to be sure of where he is spare doctors for service. Our women going.

or years now, Canada has fallen If Canada matched Germany, we short of the promises we have would need around 103,000 troops. made to our allies. In 2014, Matching Britain or France would NATO set a benchmark that members mean 125,000 to 155,000 personshould spend two percent nel. At Polish or American levels, we of gross domestic prod- would need more than 250,000 in uniuct (GDP) on defence. form, three times our current number. Canada has remained However you cut it, our present force closer to 1.3 percent. is too small for our population and our Now, NATO has raised commitments. the bar much higher: five Recruitment must expand dramatipercent of GDP by 2035, cally. That means competitive pay, afwith 3.5 percent to go fordable housing, reliable health care to core military capabili- and stronger family support. Training ties and 1.5 percent for colleges and facilities must be mod“resilience”, which is the ernised and scaled up to handle higher infrastructure, supply intake. chains and cyber defences Canada’s breadth of backgrounds is that support armed forces. This is a also one of our strengths, yet women, whole different order racialised Canadians of magnitude. It means and Indigenous peoples we need to buy and remain under-enlisted. build ships, planes, subBuilding inclusive outmaimes and satellites, reach campaigns and and invest in the ports, ensuring a culture of bases, runways, northrespect and belonging ern logistics and other within the forces will be things that make those essential. tools effective. Our Reserves are unCanada’s GDP is just derused. By offering over $3 trillion. Meetflexible service arrangeing the NATO goal ments, better benefits would mean annual and recognition of civildefence spending of ian skills, Canada could roughly $150 billion make part-time service Shauna Dobbie by 2035, compared more attractive to stuwith about $39 billion dents, professionals and today. The scale of spending is daunt- tradespeople. Defence spending must ing, but on a moral and practical ba- put personnel first, or the rest will be sis, we’ve got to find a way. wasted. Canada relies on NATO not only for Canada’s military equipment comes global stability but also for our own next. It is well below what is required sovereignty. The Arctic is opening as for a country of our size and commitice recedes. Russia’s war in Ukraine ments. The Navy has 12 frigates and shows no sign of ending. Cyberattacks 4 aging submarines. Apparently, we are constant. We cannot continue to need on the order of 15 to 25 modern lean on allies while underfunding our frigates and six to 12 new submarines own forces. Credibility matters. I’d to cover three coasts and meet NATO like our country to be taken seriously expectations. The Air Force is transiin negotiations, diplomacy and peace- tioning to 88 new F-35 fighters, but keeping, and we must carry our share that is still fewer than many believe are of the load. required. On land, the Army operates For two decades, governments only about 80 tanks and a few hundred have promised to fund new priori- armoured vehicles, while a credible ties by “finding efficiencies.” The re- force would need significantly more: sults have been modest at best. Most roughly 180 to 250 main battle tanks of the easy savings were found long and about 1,000 to 1,500 armoured ago, and much of what was branded vehicles. efficiency was really just hiring freezes Moving toward five percent of GDP or deferrals. The truth is, efficiencies means leaving all of our many banare tapped out. We have to make some daid fixes behind. We need to expand serious choices about taxes, borrow- fleets of military platforms, not simply ing or spending to find the money maintain them, with next-generation needed. drones, Arctic-capable patrol ships, Modern ships, jets, submarines and long-range air defence and modern losatellites are useless without skilled gistics. Without a larger, more modern people to operate them. The Canadi- equipment base, Canada cannot realisan Armed Forces have about 63,000 tically defend our territory or contribRegular Force members and 22,000 ute meaningfully to the operations of in the Reserves, which is roughly our allies. 85,000 total, well below the governBuying offshore increases costs and ment’s authorised target of 71,500 forfeits domestic benefits. Canada aland 30,000. That leaves a shortfall of ready designs and refits Arctic-capable more than 16,000. Without people, vessels and builds complex warships equipment is just metal. under the 2010 policy called the NaHow far off are we compared to our tional Shipbuilding Strategy. We also allies? The numbers are stark. Cana- contribute major systems and strucda’s ratio is about 0.21 percent of our tures to international aerospace propopulation in uniform. Germany, with grams, though we no longer design 84 million people, maintains about complete combat aircraft. Our chal213,000 troops, or 0.25 percent. The lenge is scale. We need greater capacity United Kingdom is closer to 0.31 per- and a clear strategy to keep intellectual cent, France to 0.38 percent, and Po- property here, rather than sending our land, which has invested heavily since brightest engineers and researchers Russia invaded Ukraine, sits at about abroad, or just selling our intellectual 0.61 percent. Even the United States, property without understanding what u 5 ‘Military commitments' at 0.63 percent, is in that range.

Dobbie vs Dobbie

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October 2025

A woman is killed every 4.2 days — my mom was one of them

t was a quiet Sunday night, September 22, de- Canada, a woman in Canada is killed by an intimate cades ago. My younger teenage brother had just partner every 4.2 days. In 2024 alone, 187 women left for his part-time job. None of us knew that and girls were violently killed nationwide. In Onnight would change our lives forever. It was the tario, 62 were killed between late 2023 and late 2024. Ottawa saw three femicides in night our mom, Joanne, was brutally that span. Spousal homicide accounts murdered by her husband, Bob. for 15% of all homicides, and women That moment is seared into my are nine times more likely to be murmemory. It was not only the loss of my dered by an intimate partner than by a mother, but also a cruel reminder of the stranger. reality of domestic violence in Canada. The risk spikes during separation — I was one of the children left behind. up to six times higher for separated That moment is seared into my spouses — and 60% of intimate partmemory. It was not only the loss of my ner homicides involve a known history mother, but also a cruel reminder of the of family violence (Canadian Femicide reality of domestic violence in Canada. Observatory for Justice and AccountI was one of the children left behind. ability). Children are deeply affected As a young man, my world shattered. too: in 2023, 64% of spousal violence I carried the weight of losing my mom Kevin Klein cases with kids involved them witnessin silence, believing that if I buried the ing or hearing the abuse, leaving scars pain deep enough, I could survive it. that last for generations. But silence didn’t protect me — it left And this is not just about women. Men are vicscars that I still carry today. The truth is, I’ve struggled with mental health ever since. Keeping it inside tims too, though less often acknowledged. Children, seniors, Indigenous women, LGBTQ+ Canadians only made the pain worse. What I’ve learned is that silence never heals. It — domestic violence affects people from every walk isolates, it festers, and it convinces victims and sur- of life. It doesn’t discriminate by income, race, or vivors they’re alone when they’re not. I now know address. Governments at every level know the scale. As of how important it is to speak out, both about our own struggles and when we see the signs in others. 2024–2025, 95 Ontario municipalities and Nova Too often, neighbours, friends, and even family no- Scotia have declared intimate partner violence an tice but stay quiet. Speaking up — asking the ques- “epidemic.” Ottawa Police adopted the term “femicide” in their reporting and added two new IPV risk tion, making the call — can save a life. My mom was an incredible woman. She raised navigators, documenting 6,636 incidents and laythree boys on her own, worked full-time, and later ing 3,355 charges in 2024 (Ottawa Police Service). chased her dream of becoming a nurse at 40. She Shelters across Canada continue to be stretched thin was resilient, loving, and fiercely devoted. But we — on a single day in 2023, 7,581 women and childidn’t have an easy life. We were a dysfunctional dren were housed, 45% of them children and 29% family that struggled financially every single day. My Indigenous (Women and Gender Equality Canada). But even when charges are laid and convictions mom carried that weight, trying to give us stability even when there was very little to hold onto. Some- follow, the consequences for abusers are often minihow, she still made us feel like the luckiest kids in mal. Only about 20 to 30% of domestic violence convictions in Canada result in jail time, with prothe world. Behind her brave smile, though, was a woman bation being the most common sentence. When incarceration is imposed, it is usually short-term. In suffering in silence, terrified to ask for help. Years later, at her killer’s parole hearing, we learned Ontario, the median sentence is just 40 to 50 days. details we hadn’t known — her repeated cries for More recent studies show average terms of three to help, her nights in shelters, the terror she lived with six months for mid-level offences, and two to four every day. Like so many, she was sleeping with one years for aggravated cases. First-time offenders are often diverted into programs that leave them witheye open, just trying to survive. Her story is not unique. According to Statistics out a criminal record if they show remorse and com-

“That moment is seared into my memory — not only losing my mother, but facing the cruel reality of domestic violence in Canada.” Photo by Kevin Klein /Winnipeg Sun. plete treatment. Only repeat offenders tend to face sentences of one to three years or more. For families like mine, these outcomes deliver a painful message: the justice system does not treat these crimes with the seriousness they deserve. Domestic violence is not a private issue. It is a public health crisis. The Department of Justice Canada once estimated the cost of spousal violence at $7.4 billion a year in lost productivity, policing, health care, and more. Yet even with those staggering costs, shelters and services remain underfunded. I share my story not for sympathy, but to honour my mother. To speak for those too afraid to speak. To tell others living in silence that they are not alone, and what happened to them is not their fault. For me, the scars remain. I live with the mental health consequences of losing my mom the way I did. But I’ve come to see telling her story as a blessing. It allows me to remember her strength, her love, and to carry her voice forward. Domestic violence thrives in silence. Let’s break it. Speak up. Support survivors. Fund shelters. Hold the system accountable. And most importantly, remind those living in fear that they are not alone. Kevin Klein is the publisher of the Winnipeg Sun.

PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE

Reflections: the supercharged rewards of service

his October marks the halfway in my mind every day. What I saw was point of my being hope and honour: hope to an elected MLA make this province better here in Manitoba. than it was before they I remember the day at got there; honour to be 23 Kennedy going before one of the very few people the selection committee to be elected and have the to be interviewed for the ability to make a differprivilege of running for ence in this great province the PC Party of Manitoba. of ours. Looking at the pictures I have been reflecting on the wall, I saw so many back on that day in front familiar faces including of the selection commitpast premiers Gary Filmtee – a 60-year-old Manion, Sterling Lyon, Brian toban who had just retired Jeff Bereza Pallister to name just a from a very rewarding agfew. With each one of riculture career. And as I them I saw a similar look left, I knew it was time for in their eyes, and I carry those pictures me to not only unretire, but to help car-

ry on the legacy of the many that have come before me in the constituency of Portage la Prairie. After receiving the honour of being elected as the MLA for Portage la Prairie, I saw right away things that the current NDP government had forgotten about. I knew we needed to do everything we could to make sure those forgotten things would happen. One of the first was the need for an MRI in the new Portage la Prairie Regional Hospital. The hospital was started by the previous PC government led by Premier Pallister. Four years after he left, the wait time for an MRI has grown higher and higher – there are 28,000 people waiting for a proper diagnosis. My PC colleagues and close to 10,000

Manitobans have signed a petition for the MRI in Portage. We will never stop working until this becomes a reality. Obby Khan is now our new leader. He has that same look in his eye as those in the pictures at 23 Kennedy. He has re-invigorated this team to do the absolute best we can for Manitoba. What I am trying to say is that I have found the absolutely best, and most rewarding career path that I have ever been on. I can’t wait to see what the next years bring. What I am saying is that age is merely a number, and whatever you do, do it with passion, do it for the right reasons, and do it because you can! Jeff Bereza is the MLA for Portage La Prairie.

We have to live up to our commitments on defence Continued from page 4

we’re giving up. We’ll need agreements with allies (who don’t back out of deals) to buy from us or build with us. Anchoring as much work as possible in Canadian shipyards, factories and research labs is one way to do this. This means building ships in Halifax, Lévis (in Quebec) and Vancouver, where our current shipbuilding facilities are. It means investing in northern ports and runways, setting up ammunition and drone production lines here, and leverOctober 2025

aging Canadian expertise in aerospace, robotics and Arctic operations. Every dollar we spend at home strengthens both our military and our economy. This new figure of five percent of GDP is a massive reach. It means about $150 billion annually by 2035. With the overall federal budget at around $449 billion, the money cannot come from efficiencies alone. We have to consider raising the GST, which is the quickest way to come up with the mon-

ey. Every percentage point the GST is raised brings in around $10 billion. The government could issue a new defence bond, which could bring in around $5 billion a year; it’s borrowing, but the money stays in Canada. But… if we don’t improve defense, how much more will it cost us when we need it, when we are attacked? There is one more thing, and it fills me with dread. Once we have built up our military, we will want to use it. Power

without restraint is a liability. Military strength should deter aggression, protect our sovereignty and support our allies. It should only be used when absolutely necessary. I can say that until I’m blue in the face and I know there are people out there who will never hear it. Canada must invest with the understanding that military power is a shield, not a sword. It is the foundation that allows every other part of our society to flourish. lifestyles55.net

Winnipeg Kinsmen Club still going strong after 100 years of service to the community

here was a time, before big government, cell in Montreal. phones, lap top computers, video games and In Winnipeg, he recruited ten other men to join him even television with its hundreds of channels, in forming the Winnipeg Kinsmen chapter. They met at when people wanting to make connections with like- the St. Charles Hotel to discuss forming a club locally. minded individuals flocked to join one of the great va- The Kinsmen Club of Winnipeg was officially chartered riety of church groups and social service on January 29, 1924, with Alf Rosevear appointed as its inaugural clubs dedicated to serving the commupresident. The first general nity, club such as the Masons, the Royal membership meeting folCanadian Legion, Kiwanis or Kinsmen. In recent years, for many of these orlowed on February 20, 1924. ganizations, It has been a challenge to atAs the third Kinsmen Club tract new, younger members. Nonetheestablished in Canada and less, the organizations are still with us. the first in Western Canada, Arguably, one of the most successful of the Winnipeg club quickly these clubs has been the Winnipeg Kinsbecame known as “the Mothmen Club which, last year, celebrated its er Club of the West.” Today, 100th anniversary. with the Montreal club no In celebration of its 100th anniversary, longer in operation, it stands reports the club’s operations manager as the second-oldest active Sarah Gibb, the Winnipeg Kinsmen iniKinsmen Club in the counMyron Love tiated a number of events that honored try, surpassed only by the their rich history and looked ahead to founding Hamilton Club. the future. The celebratory year began on February 20, (According to Gibb, there are currently 27 active 2024, with a special proclamation ceremony by the City Kinsmen, Kinette and Kin clubs in Manitoba, including of Winnipeg declaring “Kinsmen Recognition Day,” at a second one in Winnipeg.) the club’s headquarters at 161 Taapweewin Bay (previAn early highlight for the new Winnipeg club was ously known as Grandin Street). The celebrations cul- playing host to the first national Kin Canada convenminated at the RBC Convention Centre on September tion in 1926, marking the city as a foundational hub in 21, 2024, in a Centennial Gala which Gibb describes as the service club’s national development. “an elegant evening of reflection, gratitude, and comAccording to information provided by Gibb, the munity pride”. Winnipeg Kinsmen are committed to “coming together According to club records, Winnipeg Kinsmen was to build a better Manitoba, raising funds through enfounded on December 17, 1923, shortly after a gentle- gaging events fundraisers, in particular, its Jackpot Binman by the name Herman Mawhinney moved to the go, Kin Kar Raffle, and the 50/50 Raffle, and providcity from Montreal. Mawhinney was originally from ing support to numerous nonprofits across Manitoba. Hamilton where he was a co-founder of Canada’s first The club contributes millions of dollars annually to a Kinsmen Club. He co-founded a second Kinsmen Club wide range of causes, from equipment for individuals

to local and national charities, partnering with dozens of organizations to address pressing social, health, and community needs. Among the more high profile projects supported by the Winnipeg Club are the Kinsmen Discovery Centre at the Assiniboine Zoo, Winnipeg Harvest, Operation Go Home, Easter Seals Manitoba, Red River Exhibition, Agape Table (which received a million dollars) and the Manitoba Wildfires Relief Fund ($100,000.) In 2024, she reports, in celebration of its centennial, the organization donated $2,743,000 to various causes. She adds that during the Covid Pandemic 2021–2022 year the club donated over $5.2 million to charities throughout Manitoba, underscoring their enduring commitment to community support. The club maintains strong ongoing relationships with organizations like Special Olympics Manitoba, Habitat for Humanity, and Agape Table, among others. The club also plays a major role nationally, being one of the largest supporters of Cystic Fibrosis Canada. In 2023, Gibb notes, the Winnipeg Kinsmen club was honored with a Manitoba Philanthropy Award for outstanding philanthropic work, highlighting their regular collaboration with organizations like Agape Table and recalling historic contributions like “Milk for Britain” during WWII. Whether funding new playgrounds, supporting food banks, or contributing to addiction recovery programs, the Winnipeg Kinsmen remain a driving force for good in the province, Gibb Says. After 100 years, their commitment to service is as strong as ever — proving that while times may change, the heart of community spirit endures.

The Louise Bridge

was saddened by the April 29, 2025, passing of Elmwood-East Kildonan Winnipeg City Councillor Jason Schreyer. Jason was in the public eye for most of his life. Jason's father, Ed Schreyer, was sworn in as Manitoba's youngest Premier two days before Jason's second birthday. In 2014, Jason was first elected to Winnipeg's City Council. He was reelected in 2018 and 2022 and became a champion of food security. Also, Jason spoke about the need to deal with runaway construction inflation. Major construction projects have become pipe dreams. The death of Jason has necessitated a by-election on October 25, 2025. This story will deal with one of these Elmwood East Kildonan pipe dreams projects. Fred Morris Louise bridge and Royal family From the desk connections On August 1, 1881, Canada's Governor of a gadfly General, the Marques of Lorne, opened the Louise Bridge. Historical accounts remember problems associated with the free alcohol given away at the bridge's opening ceremony. The Louise Bridge was named after Queen Victoria's A map of Winnipeg in 1881 features the Louise Bridge. daughter Princess Louise, the Marques of Lorne's wife. Both Jason Schreyer and Princess Louise lived in Ottawa's Rideau Hall. Princess Louise lived there in the wearing New Louise Bridge Tee shirts (Community early 1880s when the Marquess of Lorne was Canada's Review East, July 9, 2025). Governor General. A century later, Jason lived at RideAs the Louise Bridge barely hangs on, the St. Viau Hall when his father Ed was Governor General. tal Bridge, which opened on December 12, 1965, has In 1910, the base of the 1881 bridge was used to been rebuilt. Abinojii Mikanah east of Waverley Street construct the current bridge. has been completely resurfaced. However, there seems In recent years, it has become obvious that the Lou- to be no money to replace the inner-city Louise and ise Bridge is on its last legs. A November 28, 2008, Arlington Street bridges. Both Louise and Arlington Winnipeg Free Press story speculated that construction Street bridges are well into their second century. of new four lane bridge would begin in 2015. Prior One of the biggest challenges for the candidates in to the 2015 Federal Election, Bartley Kives, then a the Elmwood East Kildonan by-election is figuring out Free Press reporter, wrote a story titled Political Road how to present their ideas about ensuring that ElmGames. In the article, Kives pointed out that the three wood East Kildonan get its fair share of the infrastruclevels of Government moved the Waverley Underpass ture pie. ahead of the Louise Bridge on the City's list of prioriThe Maloway factor ties. The story speculates that the Federal Government Jim Maloway has represented the area for the past was attempting to hold onto the Winnipeg South Cen- 39 years (36 years as the MLA, and three years as the tre seat. On 2015 Election Day, Conservative Incum- MP). Jim has fought hard for a new bridge. I have two bents lost both Winnipeg South Center and Elmwood recent Community News Stories written by Jim about Transcona the home of the Louise Bridge. The Waver- the need for a new Louise Bridge in my files. Durley Underpass opened in 2019. ing the 2023 provincial election campaign, hundreds The late Jason Schreyer was a strong advocate for a of Maloway election signs included a promise for the new Louise Bridge. Jason, his son Jared, and MLA Jim bridge. Other NDP Candidates did not seem to menMalloway are shown in an October 2021 photograph tion the Louise Bridge on their signs. However, Jim 6

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is a current member of the NDP Government Caucus. The obvious question is does the current NDP Government have money set aside to construct a new Louise Bridge? If not, why not??? The most immediate concern is whether the Louise Bridge is still safe. The bridge closed on May 23, 2025, for four days of annual maintenance. A series of city media releases pointed out additional concerns and extended the closure to mid-September. On August 20, the city announced that the Louise Bridge would open three weeks ahead of schedule on August 22 , 2025. What is the whole story? The Bridge seems to be totally rusted. The concrete surface is uneven. After every future closure, the Louise Bridge should be inspected by both city and provincial engineers before reopening. The province will be financially involved in the construction of the new bridge. Therefore, the province should be involved in ensuring the bridge is still safe. The time has come for City Council to realize that all city bridges in every part of Winnipeg have to be eventually replaced. Fred Morris is a Grandfather, Sports Fan and Political Activist. October 2025

Teaching our kids to think Continued from page 1

books away. He said he had a special face as adults isn’t about curriculum, it assignment for us. We were to work in starts with curiosity. We need to undersmall groups, which was somewhat un- stand the “why”! usual in the early 1960s, and gave us There is no substitute for curiosity, something to ponder. He asked us what for asking the question why. Why, if it we would do if the sun didn’t come up comes from personal curiosity, leads us to tomorrow? How would we survive? answers. It is empowering and construcWhat we would be pritive. It leads us to the real oritize, and how would purpose of education. As we respond to our friends Thomas Huxley once reand neighbors? How marked, "The most valuwould we decide who able result of all educashould do what and who tion is the ability to make to do it with? And then, yourself do the thing you he let us work within our have to do, when it ought small groups for most of to be done, whether you the morning. like it or not." It was the most exhilaThat’s advice that works rating and unusual exon the individual level as perience of my primary well as on the social and education. It struck me as political level. Let’s create Jerry Storie the most useful thing that schools where curiosity we had ever done, as stuis the watch word. Let’s dents. He was asking us create schools where stuto think like an adult. He was asking us dents engage in learning that motivates to solve a problem that was complex and them. And let’s hold them accountable urgent. I can remember the enthusiasm for that learning. It doesn’t necessarin the room as classmates tested ideas, ily require grades, percentages or any of checked with peers and enjoyed, not only those traditional assessment tools, but the novelty of the question, but the fact it does require that students can explain that he was asking us to use our own thoroughly what they have learned. If thinking, our collective thinking, to solve you want to know whether someone una problem. It didn’t come from some pre- derstands what they are talking about, ordained list on the blackboard or from a give them the responsibility of teaching textbook. He was asking us to think, on others. This is the principle of assessment our own. Not because we would be as- supported by student-led conferencing. signed a grade as result of our efforts, but It’s very difficult to explain something to just for the fun of thinking out loud. someone if you don’t understand it fully. Much of the recent debate about the I taught grade 6, and it was the most merits of grading, and the importance of rewarding job, personally, I ever had. I a well-defined curricula fails to address used to tell people that grade 6 students, the real purpose of education. Of course, who are beginning to think like adults in we need to teach our children to be able some ways, because they can think abto read and write and do basic math, all stractly, were old enough to talk to and of which can be achieved in elementary still gullible enough to listen to you. It school. But the real purpose of educa- was a remarkably enjoyable age to teach. tion is to give us the tools to learn for Part of it was because young people at ourselves. To create adults capable of dis- that age have become curious about the cerning what needs to be done and how world around them, about themselves it can be done. Solving the problems we and others. My experience teaching grade

October 2025

6 taught me two things. One, after the basics are mastered the idea that we can have an elementary curriculum that will perfectly prepare anyone for anything is naïve. And two, once a student is curious about something, your job is to encourage that curiosity and stay out of the way. Curiosity is the most important human attribute. Curiosity is what has solved most of the worlds endemic problems. Curiosity has led to understanding our world in ways that make the written curricula of the past few generations seem woefully inadequate. We could start with Galileo, who challenged the curriculum of his day by insisting that the sun did not in fact circle the earth. No curriculum has been written that can account perfectly for what comes next. While I was Minister of Education, I dissolved the Curriculum Assessment Branch in the Department of Education. At one time, the department spent time and money trying to ensure that “the Curriculum” was being taught, rather than determining what skills students had acquired and how we could improve their reading and other capacities as learners. Of course, in a world where knowledge is ever-expanding, defining a curriculum

beyond certain basics is creating barriers to learning new and perhaps more relevant things. Does it really matter if the grade 5 curriculum says to study Japan, but a teacher decides to have students study Nigeria? The act of applying one’s mind to a problem is the important attribute we need to teach our young children – not necessarily facts about any one thing. We should be teaching them to be researchers, to be investigative journalists, teaching them to view critically things that are going on around them. And while curriculum is more important in high school, particularly for science and math course, it is less important overall than engaging students in ways that make them think for themselves. That is why initiatives like the Seven Oaks School Division’s Big Idea (MET) School or Louis Riel School Division’s un-grading initiative that focus on student interests and gives responsibility to students for their own learning should be embraced. Ultimately, we need to know that our students can read, write and think – because that is what will be beneficial for all of us in the long run. Jerry Storie thinks and sometimes writes from Winnipeg.

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Polymershapes Winnipeg expands by 6,000 SF in CentrePort Canada Continued from page 1

“Our plastics are literally everywhere you look,” said mershapes Winnipeg close to their customers and Nyczai. “That tray you sit your drink on in the air- competition while expanding their footprint and cacraft, every bus you ride, every grocery pacity. store you walk through, every mall.” “When I first started, we had a handWhen Polymershapes Winnipeg me-down saw from the Edmonton fareached the end of their lease on St. cility, and a hand-me-down forklift and James Street in Winnipeg, Nyczai be30-year-old office furniture from the gan looking for a new space they could Vancouver facility.” grow the business in. With 6,000 square feet of additional The commercial real estate market space and enough power to support new had limited options in the St. James investments, Nyczai was able to hire anneighbourhood. The buildings were other staff member, purchase two pieces older, they didn’t meet new sprinkler of equipment, and outfit the shop with system requirements, and there wasn’t new furniture. enough space, lighting or power. The new building is energy efficient “I couldn’t plug in another toaster at with higher ceilings and better functionCarly Edmundson the old facility,” said Nyczai. ality, including a ramp, a graded parking CentrePort Nyczai began looking in CentrePort lot, a power overhead door, and hydrauCanada Canada, where the new infrastructure lic dock lifts. and buildings would accommodate the “Productivity is up,” said Nyczai. business’s requirements and provide room to grow. “People are more organized, we’ve got better space, He chose West Creek Industrial Park because the unit a brighter working space, the employees are engaged size and building layout fit the needs of the company. and excited about a new building and loving the workThe move to West Creek Industrial Park kept Poly- space. People are happy.”

Three companies now call West Creek Industrial Park home; Polymershapes Winnipeg joined tenants Medline Canada and Arctic Beverages as the first three companies to open new operations in the park this year. The 294,150-square-foot industrial park is a newly developed, premier industrial park located in the RM of Rosser, just west of Winnipeg. Developed by Hopewell Development Corp. and brought to market by Colliers International, the park offers modern, large-format industrial facilities with direct access to CentrePort Canada’s established transportation and logistics network. CentrePort Canada is excited to see companies like Medline, Arctic Beverages and Polymershapes succeed and grow. These companies are thinking about the future when they make a location decision, and having room for future growth is one of the many selling features of the tri-modal inland port. To learn more about Polymershapes Winnipeg, visit polymershapes-winnipeg.com. To learn more about CentrePort Canada, visit centreportcanada.ca. Carly Edmundson is the President & CEO of CentrePort Canada Inc.

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age of maturity

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Many miss out: caregivers and their loved ones

ecent studies show that Canadians are spend- $1,000 a month. This can include costs incurred for ing a lot of time and paying out-of-pocket prescriptions, medical devices needed by the patient, to receive medical assistance their loved ones transportation, the cost of hiring others to help, and require and, in the process, are missing out on sig- professional services costs.1 nificant tax savings. It’s a trend likely to What are commonly missed medicontinue as Canada’s demographic ages cal expenses? This includes medical rapidly. travel of more than 40 km (one way) Who are the patients who need for a medical service or treatment which care? One of the best ways to answer is not available closer to home. When that question is to look to the people travel is at least 80 km (one way), in addition to the travel costs, claims for acwho are claiming the lucrative Disability Tax Credit. This is a lucrative, noncommodation, meals and parking may refundable federal tax credit, transferbe made. Further, if a medical practirable between family members, in the tioner certifies the patient cannot travel Many people miss out on tax benefits they are eligible for. amount of $10,138. There is an addialone, the costs of travelling with an attional supplement for minor children tendant may also be claimed. significant change in health in the family. Look for a with qualifying disabilities, of $5,914, This can include, by the way, travel for professional with specialized credentials. This relationwhich may be reduced depending on treatment incurred outside of Canada if ship can pay off for years to come. the claim for child care or attendant care the medical services required are either Evelyn Jacks Notes: expenses elsewhere on the return. In real not available in Canada or wait times 1. https://enrichedthinking.scotiawealthmanagement. dollar terms, this credit is worth about in Canada are too long. Many people com/2025/04/01/the-costs-of-caregiving/ $2,500 in tax savings for adults and a maximum of just also are unaware that the costs of travel insurance or Evelyn Jacks is Founder and President of Knowledge Buover $4,000 for disabled children, once provincial tax private medical insurance premiums may be claimed. reau, a national training institute for tax and financial savings are factored into the mix. Be sure to be informed. It can really pay to con- professionals. Her podcast, Real Tax News You Can Use, is The disability must be prolonged, severe, and sult with a qualified tax specialist whenever there is a now streaming Season 1. “markedly restrict” daily living activities. According to the Disability Advisory Committee, which releases an annual report to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) about the effectiveness of tax measures targeted for Canadians with disabilities, claims for the disability tax credit increase substantially as people age. Of the close to 1.5 million claims made, just under 57% are made by those age 55 and up. Unsurprisingly, 25% of all claims made are by those age 75 and older. What are the afflictions the aged are restricted by? The vast majority of these claim are for conditions related to mobility and mental functions. But other claims are for vision, hearing, life-sustaining therapies requiring ongoing time requirements of 14 hours a week or more (example for diabetes, kidney failure, etc.), difficulties with feeding, eliminating, dressing and speaking. Sadly, only 64% of those who qualify for and have successfully completed the substantial requirements to get an approved Disability Tax Credit Form T2201 in place, actually make the claim on their tax returns. This is such an important form because it is the “gateChoosing funeral and cemetery plans can way” to many other tax – related provisions. The list is be overwhelming to a grieving spouse. quite long and includes qualifying for: • For children: the Canada Disability Benefit and Plan the details now. Together. child care expense enhancements • For workers: the Canada Workers Benefit and Order your FREE Estate Planning disability supports deduction, Kit by calling or visiting the locations • For homeowners: the Home Accessibility Tax Credit (up to $20,000 in costs), claims for medical listed below. expenses for home accessibility renovations and devices, the RRSP Home Buyer’s Plan for required moves Chapel Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery when a disability arises, the Home Buyer’s Amount 4000 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB (up to $10,000 in costs), the Refundable medical expense supplement, the Multigenerational home reno204-819-4297 vation tax credit (up to $50,000 in costs) , the RegGlen Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery istered disability savings plan and disability-related employment benefits. 455 Lagimodiere Blvd., Winnipeg, MB Clearly, older people and their caregivers, many of 204-900-8547 whom have significant time stressors, need to access prompt tax filing assistance in an increasingly digital Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery world. Unfortunately, recently, this effort has been confounded by ever-longer wait times for help at the 4477 Main St., West St. Paul, MB CRA. 204-817-8621 Who are the caregivers? Both men and women help, but women still form the larger group of careDesjardins Funeral Home givers. It is estimated that 5.7 Billion hours of unpaid care are provided in Canada every year with close to 357 Des Meurons St., 50% of caregivers needing time off from work to do Winnipeg, MB so. This leads to a number of losses: career advancements, salary, pensions and health benefits, to name a 204-813-6063 few. *Research conducted by Willful and Arbor Memorial Inc. in a 2020 survey. Importantly Stats Canada has reported that 25% of caregivers are over the age of 65. This is a significant contribution to society by our elder demographic. Our tax system does not recognize this financial sacrifice well. The income-tested Canada Caregiver Amount of just over $8600 in 2025, a non-refundable tax credit, does not do these efforts justice. There is an opportunity in the upcoming November 4 Federal Budget to fix this. What are the costs of caregiving? Did you know for example, that the average caregiver in Canada, the majority of which are women, will have close to Arbor Memorial Inc. $6,000 in out-of-pocket costs each year, for expenses paid to help their loved ones? Some studies have found that 22% of these caregivers spend as much as

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Mayor Scott Gillingham honours Petland Canada with an award

etland Canada recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking 50 years of matching the right pet with the right owner and supporting pet communities across Western Canada. With 36 locations, Petland has become a trusted Canadian institution of pet care, education, and responsible pet ownership. On September 15th, Mayor Scott Gillingham visited the Pembina Petland location to present the owners of Petland Canada, Robert and Barbara Brissette, with the City of Winnipeg Organizational Community Service Award. This award is given to organizations that have operated within the city and are marking a meaningful anniversary of service. “We’re incredibly proud of our history and excited for the future as we continue to build meaningful connections between people and pets”, said Barbara Brissette. Over the past 50 years, Petland Canada has distinguished itself by focusing on education, community involvement, and animal welfare. From adoption ini-

tiatives to in-store experiences designed to promote responsible pet ownership, Petland has remained committed to enriching the lives of both pets and their owners. Barbara Brissette commented, saying, “Reaching 50 years is a milestone that reflects the dedication of our

team members, the loyalty of our guests, and the joy pets bring to families every day.” Petland opened its first store in Osborne Village in June 1975, then under the banner “The Village Pet Set.” Their second store opened in Eaton Place in 1979, and since then, Petland has grown steadily over the past five decades, remaining 100% Canadian-owned and operated. It has become a Winnipeg institution for several generations of families. “As the company looks to the future, its vision remains rooted in the same values that shaped its beginnings: education, compassion, and care”, Robert said. Today, Petland comprises 31 Corporate stores and five franchise locations. A family-owned business, Petland continues its mission of matching the right pet with the right guest and meeting the needs of both. As Robert Bissette put it to his guests who already have pets, “We are dedicated to enhancing their knowledge and enjoyment of the human-animal bond”.

Deputy Mayor of the City of Winnipeg visited injured Senaka on his walker

few dozen well-wishers visited when they came to know I had a fall in our backyard while I was doing gardening on the evening of Aug. 15, 2025. This is the latter part of the summer season in Canada. When the community came to know of my domestic accident, well-wishers visited us. Among the well-wishers, was Janice Lukes. In 2014, she was elected to the Waverley West ward, and I served as President of the Sri Lankan Association of Manitoba from 2015 to 2017. During my tenure as President of SLAM, I had close contact with Janice. Currently,

she is the Deputy Mayor of the City of Winnipeg. Furthermore, she holds the responsibilities of Chair of Infrastructure Renewal and Public Works and CoChair of the Winnipeg Capital Region. Janice has become a family friend, and she is close to my wife, Chandani, and all other family members. When Janice learned of my fall, she sent an email dated Sept. 2nd as follows: “Goodness Senaka! Maybe this is someone’s way of telling you to slow down and relax!! You are always so busy!!” In the above email, Janice noted that

Priorities for Seniors Advocate

Lucille Bruce, Co-Chair, Manitoba Seniors Equity Action Coalition; Marnie Strath, Chair, Canadian Association of Retired Persons, Manitoba Chapter Paul Moist, President, Manitoba Federation of Union Retirees

n November 1, 2025, the NDP government will fulfill its election campaign promise with the

lifestyles55.net

scheduled opening of the Seniors Advocate Office. Seniors’ groups have been calling upon successive provincial governments to establish a Seniors Advocate Office that would be a voice for older adults in our province regarding issues of program and policy reform. The Seniors Advocate Act provides the office with a mandate to not only address individual matters, but to focus on systemic and root cause issues, as well. A number of seniors groups and community organizations are working together to shape the initial agenda of the Seniors Advocate by identifying four

she will have a short visit, tea with Chandani and me on Sept. 15th, 2025 at 2:00 pm. As scheduled, she arrived in time with a well-arranged home-grown bunch of flowers in a vase. She spent nearly two hours discussing Sri Lankan community activities such as Colombo Winnipeg Aviation History, the land issue of Manitoba Buddhist Vihara, happenings of Sri Lankan Seniors Manitoba, and public transport problems of Pembina Trails Collegiate High School. Editor’s note: We wish Senaka well on his recovery.

systemic issues and actions that the office should address. The Manitoba Seniors Advocate should make it a priority to conduct a comparative study of government funding for non-profit and for-profit long-term care facilities, similar to the review done by the British Columbia Seniors Advocate, in order to better understand the impact of the costs and services of for-profit and non-profit long-term care facilities in our province. Secondly, the Manitoba Seniors Advocate should make it a priority to conduct a review of the supply and cost of independent living, assisted living and supportive housing for seniors in our province. Presently, the provincial government identifies that the private sector should be providing assisted living for older adults. Assisted living, (including rent, meals, cleaning and laundry services) provided by the private sector costs between $3,000 to $6,000 per month. The entire income for an individual senior receiving Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) pensions is less than $2,000 per month. Private sector assisted living is clearly beyond the means of low/fixed/moderate income seniors. A continuum of rent-geared-to-income non-profit housing for older adults,

including independent living, assisted living and supportive housing, needs to be established to prevent the premature entry of low/fixed/moderate income seniors into long-term care homes. The proposed Supply and Cost of Independent Living, Assisted Living and Supportive Housing Review should include identifying (1) gaps and barriers in services, especially as related to equity deserving groups; (2) required system policy changes, and (3) required funding, especially the role of the federal and provincial governments. Thirdly, the Manitoba Seniors Advocate should make it a priority to conduct a review of the provincial home care system to strengthen capacity and resources to support older adults to age-in-place. The harmful stories experienced by individuals with the home care system is highlighted by the media on a regular basis. The proposed Aging-In-Place Strengthening Home Care System Review should include identifying (1) gaps and barriers in services, especially as related to equity deserving groups; (2) required systemic policy changes, and (3) required public funding. Finally, the new Manitoba Seniors Advocate should make it a priority to establish an advisory council that is representative of older adults throughout the province, including representatives from equity groups, to provide direction for the development, implementation, ongoing priorities, and review of the impact of Seniors Advocate Office. Seniors’ groups look forward to working with the new Seniors Advocate to better address the aspirations and needs of older adults in Manitoba. Adopting these proposed priorities would be a good start to demonstrate that the Seniors Advocate is authentically working in partnership with the community. Provided by the Manitoba Seniors Equity Action Coalition. October 2025

Seniors and eye health

eniors often face unique chal- properly over time. lenges when it comes to vision Seniors may also experience difficuland eyewear. As individuals age, ties with glare, especially while driving various eye conditions such as pres- at night or in bright sunlight. Antibyopia, cataracts, and macular degen- reflective coatings on lenses can help eration can emerge, makreduce glare, enhancing ing it essential for them clarity and comfort. Adto have the right pair of ditionally, photochroeyeglasses. Here, we will mic lenses that darken discuss common difficulin response to sunlight can provide protection ties seniors encounter against harmful UV rays with glasses and effective while also reducing glare solutions to address these during daytime activities. issues. Another significant One of the primary difconcern for seniors is the ficulties seniors face is risk of losing or damagpresbyopia, a condition that typically starts in the ing their glasses. To mitiArshdeep Manghera gate this, using a glasses early to mid-40s, resulting in difficulty focusing strap or chain can keep All About Eyes on close objects. This the eyewear secure when necessitates the use of not in use. Moreover, reading glasses or bifocals. However, having a backup pair of glasses is adseniors may struggle with finding the visable, ensuring that seniors are not right strength or adjusting to multifo- left without vision correction in case cal lenses. A solution to this issue is to of loss or breakage. have a comprehensive eye examination Furthermore, seniors may face chalto ensure the prescription is accurate. lenges with lens cleanliness, as smudgAdditionally, progressive lenses can es or dirt can impair vision. Using provide a more seamless transition be- microfiber cloths and lens cleaning tween different vision zones, reducing solutions specifically designed for eyethe visual strain associated with switch- wear can help maintain lens clarity. It’s ing between different pairs of glasses. also beneficial to learn about proper Another common issue is the physi- cleaning techniques to prolong the life cal discomfort or inconvenience re- of their glasses. This includes the use lated to wearing glasses. Seniors may of a clean microfibre cloths and assurfind their frames heavy or ill-fitting, ing the glasses are cleaned wet and not causing discomfort over prolonged dry. Most eyewear clinics offer comuse. Lightweight materials, such as plimentary eyeglass cleaning kits with titanium or flexible plastic, can allevi- a purchase of eyewear or you may be ate this problem. Moreover, opting for able to purchase a cleaning kit from frames that offer adjustable nose pads your optician or grocery store. and temple lengths can enhance comOther eye conditions can also cause fort. Regular adjustments by an opti- seniors to experience discomfort when cian can also ensure that the glasses fit wearing glasses such as dry eye syn-

October 2025

drome which can be caused by a many environmental factors or medications or other age related conditions or health concerns. Dry eye is a common condition among seniors that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort and irritation. This condition can result in symptoms such as a gritty sensation, redness, and blurred vision, significantly impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. There are a number of solutions to help alleviate dry eye syndrome. Your optometrist may start you on eye drops or warm compresses. Other long term solutions include more advanced treatment options such as radio frequency or intense pulse light (IPL) treatments. These non invasive options can help improve the quality of tears being produced and restore comfort, providing a long lasting solution for

individuals and making it more comfortable to wear glasses further reducing glare and eye strain. In conclusion, while seniors may encounter various difficulties with eyeglasses, understanding these challenges, what may be causing them and implementing practical solutions can significantly enhance their vision and overall quality of life. Regular eye exams, choosing the right frames and lenses, and adopting proper care techniques and following your optometrist and optician’s advice are essential steps in ensuring that seniors can navigate their world with confidence and clarity. Arshdeep Manghera is a licensed optician who specializes in eyeglasses. He is also a certified contact lens optician and the owner of Academy Optical. With over a decade of experience, Arshdeep is dedicated to helping patients find their perfect eyewear.

lifestyles55.net

Apple and Cranberry Pie A little tart and a little sweet

he beauty of cranberry apple pie lies in its warm, inviting aroma and the delightful contrast of flavours that dance together in each slice. As it bakes, the sweet and tart scent wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace that promises comfort and indulgence. The golden-brown crust, flaky and slightly crisp, cradles a vibrant filling that glistens with rich hues of ruby red and deep amber. Each bite reveals a symphony of textures – the tender, juicy apples mingling with the tartness of fresh cranberries, creating a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and satIan Leatt isfying. The natural sweetness of the apples compleFoodies ments the bright acidity of the cranberries, offering a complex flavor profile that tantalizes the palate. A hint of cinnamon and nutmeg weaves through the filling, adding a sultry warmth that evokes memories of autumn gatherings and family traditions. Picture this: the pie rests on the table, steam rising as you cut into its luscious depths. The filling spills slightly, showcasing the vibrant colors that beckon you closer. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream melts gently atop the warm pie, adding an extra layer of indulgence that enhances the experience. As friends and family gather around, laughter fills the air, each person savoring their slice with delight. The pie becomes a centerpiece of connection, a shared moment that brings warmth and joy to the table. Cranberry apple pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the seasons, a sultry reminder of the beauty found in simple pleasures. It invites you to slow down, to savour each bite, and to relish in the sweetness of togetherness, making it a cherished addition to any gathering.

For the pie 1 egg 4 tablespoons milk 4 teaspoons confectioner’s sugar

What you will need: For the Crust 3 cups all-purpose flour ¼ teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup Crisco shortening 6 tablespoons ice water For the Filling 5 tablespoons unsalted butter 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour ¼ cup water ½ cup granulated sugar ½ cup brown sugar ¼ teaspoon nutmeg ¼ teaspoon allspice 4 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and sliced 2 cups fresh cranberries

Happy Seniors Month! Thank you to the seniors of Fort Whyte for the many ways you continue to enrich our lives.

Obby Khan MLA for Fort Whyte

The all important how to: For the crust In a large bowl, blend the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the shortening and gradually work into the flour mixture until it resembles a breadcrumb consistency. Add the ice water a little at a time. Blend mixture gently, gradually adding remaining ice water until dough forms together. (You may need to add more water 1 tablespoon at a time, until all flour is moistened, and you have a finished dough.) Separate dough in half and form two evenly sized balls. Wrap each in surround wrap and then transfer to the refrigerator. When ready to use dough, remove from the refrigerator and let warm to room temperature before rolling out to required size. For the filling Preheat oven to 350°. Roll out the pastry and line the bottom of the pie dish. In a medium sized saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the flour to form a roux. Now add the water, sugar, nutmeg, and allspice and bring to a boil; reduce the temperature and leave to simmer stirring occasionally on a low heat. Combine the sliced apples and cranberries in a large bowl. Add the brown sugar mixture to apples and toss to coat, then arrange apple cranberry mixture in a mound in pie dish. Roll out the remaining pastry. Using a confectioner’s brush paint the edge of the pie crust and place the rolled-out piece of pastry atop. Crimp the edges of the pastry sealing in all the goodness. Score the top then brush with remaining egg and milk mixture, finally sprinkle with sugar. Place the pie in the oven and bake until apples are soft, and crust is deeply golden, about one hour. I love pie with fresh whipped cream, but some folks prefer with ice cream, it is a matter of choice. Happy Thanksgiving. Ian Leatt is a trained chef from across the pond.

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October 2025

WSO Music Director muses, “Music can change the world!”

Music Director Daniel Raiskin. Photo: Petr Hrubeš.

Raiskin conducting the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. Photo by Matt Duboff.

Daniel Raiskin

look toward the 2025/26 with a sense of excitement and great responsibility. I am excited about the WSO welcoming back some truly exceptional artists who have become dear friends of the orchestra and our audiences, including Alexei Volodin, Bryan Cheng, Stewart Goodyear, Nodoka Okisawa. We are also welcoming new names that will, without any doubt, bring lots of enthusiasm together with their world-class artistry such as Alexandra Conunova, Kevin Zhu, Rune Bergmann, Robert Moody, and Boris Allakhverdyan. I mentioned responsibility earlier, and indeed—today more than ever, we artists feel called to infuse the daily lives of those around us with a sense of hope and light! Beethoven once noted that “music can change the world,” and 250 years later Bono, the iconic lead

singer of U2, has taken the idea a step further, “music can change the world because it can change people”! I have a feeling that music has to change people and the world we are living in. To do so this season, we rely on the power of music by such universally loved composers as Mozart, Beethoven, Mahler, Grieg, Sibelius, Nielsen, Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff, Shostakovich, Khachaturian, and Bernstein, to name a few. And we highlight the music of Canadian composers and are proud to present works by Samy Moussa, Vincent Ho, and Harry Stafylakis, WSO’s Composer in Residence, whose Third Symphony will see its world premiere here in Winnipeg. I am also tremendously proud to present one of the leading North American composers of today, Christopher Theofanidis, as WNMF’s Distinguished Guest Composer for next year’s festival. One project I would like to highlight separately.

Ilia Rayskin, drummer and son of Music Director Daniel Raiskin, performs The Tyrant’s Crush by Stewart Copeland.

Over the past seven seasons I have often shared the stage with many exceptionally talented young musicians from Winnipeg, some of them children of our own WSO players. In March 2026, I will most proudly share the stage with my son, Ilia. He will be the soloist in the Concerto for Drum-Set and Orchestra The Tyrant’s Crush by Stewart Copeland, the legendary drummer of The Police and himself a prolific composer of symphonic works and opera! Stewart Copeland will also come to Winnipeg to perform during one of our smashing Live at the WSO programs, The Police Deranged, a symphonic tribute to the legendary UK rock band whose songs I grew up with and still listen to with great pleasure. Scan this QR code to learn more about the WSO’s 2025-26 season. Daniel Raiskin is the WSO Music Director.

Andrew Balfour: A Manitoban you should know Continued from page 1

Andrew speaks with affection for his and participation in choirs. The founduniversity voice teacher, Mel Braun, ing of the choir also provided the opand choral conductor, Henry Eng- portunity for the start of his compobrecht, who helped him sitional career. He wrote develop his musical music for the choir, and skills, supported him in as his skills developed, his early ventures, and he was also developing remain friends and menhis knowledge and aptors to this day. They also preciation for his Indigopened the door to the enous Heritage. He was complexities and beauty born in the Fisher River of the musical treasures Cree Nation, but he was that captivated him. He adopted into a non-Inhas always found inspidigenous family when ration in the great choral he was six months old. and musical composers As an adult, he started of earlier times such as to explore his IndigTrudy Schroeder Palestrina, Monteverdi, enous culture and stoRandom and Bach, and this aesries, and he used music Notes thetic is a strong influand compositions to tell ence in the soundscapes the stories and explore that he creates in his compositions to- the heritage that was part of his past. day. This exploration has been extraordiBalfour founded a musical ensem- narily fruitful, and the wonder of the ble, then known as Camerata Nova, stories he tells through his music has in 1996. The group was made up of won him a place in concert programs, friends and fellow music students he recordings, CBC broadcasts, and conhad come to know through his studies cert halls throughout the country. October 2025

Poster for Notinikew. His musical passion for early music and the human voice has given him a palette of sounds that are remarkably effective as a framework for the tales of Indigenous traditions, myths, and reconciliation inspired journeys. His music has been recorded by a number of choirs, and one of his recordings

was nominated for a Juno award. You can discover the beauty and impact of his work this fall in a concert scheduled for October 29th at the new Desautels Concert Hall at the University of Manitoba. The concert is a joint venture between his choir, Dead of Winter, and the International Cello Festival. This concert features a new composition by Andrew as well as a medieval and contemporary works performed by the choir with cellists Inbal Segev, Denise Djokic, and Cameron Crozman. This is a concert you should not miss. Tickets can be purchased on the Dead of Winter website. Later in the fall, a recording of his work Notinikew: Going to War will be released. Something very special has been created in the musical compositions of Andrew Balfour brought to life by the wonderful choir he founded which is now his compositional instrument. Trudy Schroeder provides project planning and management services to the community through Arts and Heritage Solutions. lifestyles55.net

Is it nature or nurture?

or how many generations have people been ar- religion is a form of insanity. Many religious people are guing, is it nature or nurture? Nobody will ever trying to run away from reality for one reason or anwin this argument. The truth is, it is neither na- other. ture nor nurture, it all comes down to personal choices. What is the better hockey team? The answer is none Unless, in some rare cases, because of of them are. All teams are made up of loan impediment, they are unable to think cal and foreign players. No team is a conrationally, humans can make choices for sistent winner, and no team is a true repthemselves. We all can choose to follow resentative of their “home” city. In fact, our instincts, to follow our programhockey teams have no “home” city, they ming, or to choose totally different bemay freely move from one city to another haviours. We can all plan our own futures if their owners so choose. and decide what we need to do so we can Does a hockey fan become a better achieve our personal goals. We can all person if his “home team” wins the Stanmake choices for ourselves. You are your ley Cup? The truth is winning or losown boss. It is as simple as that. ing a Stanley Cup would have no effect Two men were arguing: one stated the whatsoever on any fan’s life. Like childemperor’s clothes were blue and the othish sitcoms and rock concerts, hockey is er stated they were purple. It took a little commonly used as a distraction from a Wayne Weedon boy in the audience to point out the fact person’s real-life problems. These probFood for that the emperor was not wearing any lems do not go away if someone tries to Thought clothes at all; he was completely naked. run away from them by absorbing themBoth men were wrong, but they would selves in some sort of distraction. Eventuargue until they were black and blue in the face to prove ally these problems will come back to slap that person they were right. in the face. Would it not be better to face these probThe Canadian psychiatrist, Doctor Eric Berne, in lems and deal with them before they grow into huge his book, “Games People Play”, stated there is no such unmanageable catastrophes? thing as an alcoholic. However, there is a game of AlWhat would the world look like if all persons took coholic with the players vying for control of the others. responsibility for their own choices and their own acTo play this game, Alcoholic is joined by Persecutor tions, if people quit trying to blame their behaviour on and possibly three other players, Rescuer, Patsy, and others? Maybe people would pause to think before they Agitator. If the players continue being distracted from reacted? How different our world would be if everyone their serious real-life problems, the game will continue. took charge of their own lives and their own futures, to What is the true religion? Is it Catholic? Protestant? begin setting goals and to consistently work towards Moslem? Hinduism? Judaism? Zoroastrian? Until peo- these goals. ple realise that all religions are false and there are no Most people’s desires and their actions contradict gods, no heavens, and no Hell, arguments and wars with each other. What would happen if their actions about religion will continue. The truth is that every re- coincided with their desires? What if they began thinkligion has been invented by some person or some group ing before they reacted? What if they paused and conof people. This is why Doctor Alfred Adler stated that sidered if their actions would take them closer to their

Was Benjamin Franklin on to something? goals and desires? What if they only did things which would lead them to what they want in life? How long would it take for their lives to completely turn around? What if people started following Benjamin Franklin’s advice on how to live which he detailed in his autobiography? How would someone’s life be altered if they seriously read such books as Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense”, or books written by Robert Green Ingersoll, Gerald Massey, Richard Dawkins, and Oliver Wendall Holmes? Would they have a better understanding of running their own lives? What if everyone quit trying to blame others for their failings? What would this new world be like? John Lennon tried to imagine it. Can you? Wayne Weedon is an Indigenous Manitoba writer of novels and short stories. To sample his wonderful work go to Wattpad.com.

The northern Peso: managing Canada’s economic decline Part 2 of 2

mains a stubborn problem. Half a world away, Argentina’s President Javier Milei Last month, Romel wrote, “The cur- inherited an economy in collapse, with rent era is one of managed decline, marked hyperinflation at 211%. His response by economic stagnation, persistent infla- has been "chainsaw" economics: a protion, and a quiet, quartergram of extreme austerity, by-quarter erosion of the avincluding massive spenderage Canadian’s standard ing cuts and a complete of living." stop to the central bank He then reminded us of printing money to finance lessons that should have deficits. The success has been learned from the been undeniable. The past. monthly inflation rate, “The Canadian economy which was over 25% when of the early 1990s was in a he took office, has plumstate of near-collapse. The meted. This shock therapy unemployment rate soared came at the tremendous to a staggering 11.4% in price of a severe recession Romel Dhalla 1993, the highest level since and surging poverty, but it the Great Depression. At the stands as a stark refutation On The heart of this crisis was the of the Western consensus, Money national debt proving that there is a via“The pivotal 1995 federal ble alternative to the slowbudget was a declaration of war on the defi- bleed stagflation that now characterizes cit. Total program spending was slashed by many developed economies. Argentina almost 10% over two years, a reduction of is now poised to lead the world in ecoover $25 billion. nomic growth and prosperity for its citi“In the decades that followed, a new and zens with an IMF projected growth rate seductive economic philosophy took hold. of 5.5% for 2025. This new orthodoxy argues that a governIf the path of debt-fueled growth is a ment can outgrow its debt so long as the dead end, Canada must chart a course economy’s nominal growth rate remains based on its real, tangible, and globally higher than the interest rate on its debt. significant economic strengths. The corThe first pillar, a belief in a productivity nerstone of this strategy should be the boom from technological innovation, is a strategic development of its natural reform of magical thinking for most coun- source sector. Canada’s most profound tries. comparative advantage lies in its vast en“The second pillar is a reliance on mass dowment of natural resources. It is one immigration to expand the labor force and of the very few developed nations that is drive aggregate demand.” a net exporter of energy, possessing the ••• world's third-largest proven oil reserves. His advice continues now in Part 2: This is a geological and economic fact he contrast between this model that has been tragically under-leveraged. and a more disciplined approach A new pipeline to tidewater is not is playing out in real time. Can- merely an infrastructure project; it is ada is currently experiencing persistent an essential tool of national economic stagnation. Real GDP has contracted, strategy. It is a nation-building project the combined federal-provincial net critical for enhancing energy security, didebt-to-GDP ratio is projected to reach versifying export markets away from an 74.8% in 2025, and core inflation re- overwhelming dependence on the Unit-

T 14

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ed States and capturing the full global market value for Canadian resources. Manitoba presents a logical and strategic anchor point, as the province is itself a significant energy producer with existing infrastructure. The economic impact would be profound. A new pipeline would represent one of the largest private-sector capital investments in the country's history, triggering billions in spending without adding a dollar to government debt. This would directly create thousands of high-paying, skilled-trades jobs during construction and support hundreds of permanent, high-wage jobs in operations. The ripple effects would activate a vast domestic supply chain, creating thousands of additional jobs across the country. A new pipeline is also a direct conduit for a massive, long-term stream of government revenue. The oil and gas industry already generates billions in taxes and royalties for governments, revenue that would be significantly enhanced by a new pipeline through property taxes and corporate income taxes that directly fund schools, hospitals, and roads. Failing to build new export infrastructure is an act of economic self-harm. Canada's lack of pipeline capacity forces its producers to sell their heavy crude oil at a significant discount to the North American benchmark. This price differential represents a direct wealth transfer from Canadian producers to American refiners, a loss that amounted to over $20.7 billion in foregone revenues in just five years. Building a tidewater pipeline is therefore a fundamental matter of economic sovereignty. Canada now stands at a critical crossroads. It can continue to follow a failing global orthodoxy, accepting a future of stagnant growth and a steadily eroding standard of living. Or it can choose a different path, one based on fiscal reality and a clear-eyed recognition of its own powerful comparative advantages.

This is not a decision between the past and the future. It is a choice between a future of diminishing expectations and one of renewed prosperity, built not on fashionable theories, but on the enduring foundations of its own real wealth. Romel Dhalla, is President of Dhalla Advisory Corp., provides strategic corporate finance advice to companies and high net worth individuals and was a portfolio manager and investment advisor with two major Canadian banks for 17 years. 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. ••• Editor’s note: Backing up what Romel is saying is this snippet from the Canadian Press reporting on the Parliamentary Budget Officer comments at Finance Committee meeting in Ottawa: Ottawa – “Stupefying,” “shocking” and “unsustainable” — those are some of the words Ottawa’s fiscal watchdog used Thursday (Sept 25) to describe his scathing forecast for federal finances ahead of the long-anticipated fall budget. Interim parliamentary budget officer Jason Jacques published an updated economic and fiscal outlook on Thursday in which he projected the federal deficit would balloon to $68.5 billion this year, up from an estimated $51.7 billion last year. He also expects the federal debt-toGDP ratio, which is previously a major fiscal anchor for Ottawa, will no longer decline in the coming years. Jacques told a parliamentary committee Thursday afternoon it is the first time in 30 years he has seen a projection where that key metric rises over time. October 2025

Speaking of angels . . . You can’t make it up!

ast week I was walking down a Safeway aisle, diately described what she had felt. Somehow neither looking for honey. At first, I noticed a presence one of us was surprised. “How old is your grandson?” at the corner of my eye. He didn’t walk past I asked. “18 months,” she told me. “Eighteen months?” I repeated in disbelief, totally me as most children his age would. He was very small surprised by her answer. He acted and but very aware, more aware than a typitalked as if he were at least a year or two cal child his age. He was obviously with older. a woman. He stopped so that I could not We exchanged a few more words, only miss him, almost directly in front of me, for me to learn that his name was Love. and said “Hi!”. “My name is Dove,” I shared, to which “Hi,” I replied, still not fully paying atthe little boy replied, “I knew that.” tention to him. He repeated, “Hi!” not I couldn’t believe my ears, and a stream moving an inch out of my way. I finally of the same energy mentioned earlier looked at him properly, said “Hi,” again, went through my whole system. and noticed his beautiful brown eyes. The encounter was brief and profound. Smiling, I said ‘Hi,” again, then “How I’m still thinking about it and trying to are you?” recall, did I pray today to meet true, pure Before he could answer, the lady with love? Hmmmm... I might have. him, his grandmother, told me, “He just Zofia Dove To some of you, the encounter I have told me he talks to angels. Children stop talking about things like that when they Dove's Discoveries described might sound like a “Woo, Woo” experience, and yet countless are about four years old,” she added. “He people throughout the world have had is still connected.” “I know this to be true” I told her. Now I squatted experiences beyond the limitations of the five senses. down in front of the small boy. His eyes were look- Many of these experiences take place around accidents, ing straight into mine. He seemed too young to be personal life storms, or at the bedside of dying people. that present and alert, yet present he was. Down at his It is at that time where the logical mind becomes inept level, I said, “You are talking to angels because you just to explain or overpower the states beyond logic. Once came from them, and I talk to angels because I work experienced, these become deeply ingrained in us and with people who are going back to them. I work with so powerful that nothing can overturn them. They change lives! Many health-care professionals share and people who are dying.” I hardly finished my sentence when his grandmother testify to having experiences like this or being a part of felt shivers going through her body, a clear confirma- them while caring for their patients or in their personal tion that I was speaking words of truth. She imme- lives.

If you are doubtful, for starters you might want to check Dr Tara Swart’s online interview in which she describes her experiences around the death of her beloved husband. As a neuroscientist and psychiatrist, she had never believed in those kinds of extrasensory experiences being possible. There have been numerous studies conducted throughout the world which prove the authenticity of these experiences beyond the five senses. People who have had them seldom share them with others out of fear of ridicule. But they are real, as real as the rising sun. We humans are capable of experiencing far more than our logical mind would like us to believe. Birth and death challenge logic. You simply can’t make it up! Zofia Dove is an international keynote speaker, author and producer, host and director of the series “Discovering Beauty Everywhere”.

Death becomes us

here’s one thing we all have in These days Celebrations of Life are the common … death. There’s no growing trend. They are an event to recway around it. For many of us ognize, appreciate and celebrate a perit was brought to our attention from a sons life in a more casual and dare I say very early age. The ever fun way. Less ceremonial. popular (maybe not so Some people aren’t even any more) nursery rhyme doing that. What a shame and lullaby Rock-a-bye to plan a party where all Baby. Remember how it your family and friends ends? When the bough are going to be there but, breaks, the cradle will you can’t make it. fall and down will come “Always go to other peobaby cradle and all. Isn’t ple’s funerals, otherwise that wonderful? But, my they won’t come to yours.” favourite was always the The notion of death is bedtime prayer so many something I have been of us recited night after thinking about recently. I night as we knelt dutisuppose that is somewhat Jim Ingebrigtsen fully beside the bed that common to some of us ended with the words, who can very likely count and if I die before I wake, how many Christmas’s’ I pray the Lord etc. How comforting is we have, or hope to look forward to, that to a little kid? I see it as cruel and on our respective digits. I remember my unusual punishment at such a young grandmother not having any love of the and vulnerable age. yuletide season. Both her two husbands I’m going to, as I have in the past, and a gentleman who never solidified sprinkle a few of my favourite quotes their relationship in matrimony but was about death from people whose names good enough to make her a mother once you might or might not be familiar with. again all died around this festive season. I have left out their names for space sake "My grandmother was a very tough and the fact that so many quotes might woman. She buried three husbands and two of them were just napping." be accurately attributive. Last night (at the time of this writing) “If any of you cry at my funeral I’ll never I received a text from the daughter of speak to you again.” In the days and weeks to come I ex- an old friend of mine who has been livpect I will be attending a funeral or two. ing in the Kelowna area for many years. They seem to be arriving at a faster rate He hadn’t been feeling up to snuff for these days than in the past. It turns out, a number of weeks. He went into the as I am sure you have noticed, funerals hospital to be checked out and ended up are not as common as they used to be. checking out, as it were. He had both

a heart attack and a stroke at the same time. What are the odds of that? I suppose his time here was over. As we all know tomorrow is promised to no one. “Dying is a very dull, dreary affair. And my advice to you is to have nothing to do with it.” And then, first thing this morning I learned that a guy I went to school with passed away. We had just had a beer with a group of other “old” guys a few weeks ago. He had had health issues for some time and of course some will say “It’s was a blessing.” I have often wondered to who? To the person who has passed especially if they were in great pain? I suppose so. Or to the family that had to watch the pain and suffering the person experienced? In the end, I guess

to everyone involved. Still, it’s hard to say goodbye. “I don’t mind dying, the trouble is you feel so bloody stiff the next day.” Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw once quipped, "Life does not cease to be funny when people die any more than it ceases to be serious when people laugh." This quote reminds us that humor and sorrow can coexist. Finally, “I’m not afraid of death; I just don’t want to be there when it happens.” Well, actually you can. I’ll fill you in next month. Wouldn’t it be nice, in a way, if we could all just die laughing? Take a trip down Jim’s free musical memory lane podcasts online at Lifestyles55radio.ca

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October 2025

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Island vibes! Join me at Ice Crystal Gala 2025

very year, I am humbled and lion, proof of the incredible generosity inspired by the generosity of of our community. This year, I know we Manitobans who come together can make an even greater impact for the to support kids who need care at HSC thousands of kids and families who deChildren’s Hospital. The pend on Children’s HospiIce Crystal Gala is one of tal each year. my favourite nights of the When you buy a ticket, year. It’s a chance for famia table, or a sponsorship lies to gather, celebrate, package, you’re not just and make a real difference attending a wonderful for sick and injured kids in evening, you’re helping us our community. #ContinueCaringForKids On Saturday, October and ensuring families have 18, 2025, we’ll be bringaccess to the best possible ing the Island Vibes to the care, close to home. RBC Convention Centre I warmly invite you to Winnipeg for an unforgetjoin us. table evening of fun, laughGet your tickets today Stefano Grande ter, and purpose. From at goodbear.ca/IceCrystalHealthy live entertainment and a Gala. Living delicious dinner to excitAs we come together to ing auctions, kids’ activicelebrate at the Ice Crystal ties, and a lively dance floor, there truly Gala, I want to share another important is something for everyone at this family way you can make a difference. Right gala. now, we are embarking on a bold plan Last year, our Rhinestone Rodeo to modernize the inpatient rooms of Gala raised a record-breaking $1.5 mil- CK5 at HSC Children’s Hospital. This

is where children with cancer and blood disorders receive care. These rooms haven’t been significantly updated since 1986 and for kids spending weeks or months in hospital, outdated spaces can make their healing journey more difficult. Families tell us they need brighter rooms where they can rest, connect, and support their child. Most of all, they need spaces for heeling and hope. Help us transform sterile, clinical rooms into healing spaces that are fam-

ily-centred, safe, and uplifting. Help us improve treatments through childhood cancer research happening right here in Manitoba at Children’s Hospital Research Institute. Your gifts will also support programs like therapeutic play, art therapy, Indigenous healing supports, and technology that connects kids with learning, friends, and fun while they heal. That’s why childhood cancer research is part of this spotlight campaign. Let’s transform the pediatric oncology ward, a place where children fight some of the toughest battles of their young lives. Your donation will ensure that these kids, and those who come after them, receive care in spaces that reflect the same excellence and compassion as the medical teams who walk beside them. This is more than a renovation. This is about dignity, comfort, and hope. Let’s make anything possible. Please consider donating today at goodbear.ca/donate. Stefano Grande is the president and CEO of Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba.

LETTERS

Natural rebel writes to Jim

e Cowboys: I saw Gene Autry ride Champion in the Winnipeg auditorium in the 1950s. (Did you miss it?) Also, you missed the Cisco Kid and his sidekick Pancho and his horse Diablo. What about Hopalong Cassidy (William Boyd) and his horse Topper? Further back, there was Tex Ritter and don’t forget Audie Murphy, the Second World War hero. P.S. I had all the guns, etc. but usually opted to an Indian! Laura

Bureaucratic overreach forcing residents to accept housing plan

ecently, I learned that the City of Winnipeg, in partnership with the Manitoba Government, plans to build housing for refugees, people from encampments, people with mental health challenges, and youth exiting care. https://orlikow.ca/2025/08/city-ofwinnipeg-invites-residents-to-learnabout-new-supportive-housing-site/ It was interesting to learn that the city has consulted with 18 community agencies – many of which work in or serve North End residents to gain feedback about the Supportive Housing plan. But disturbing was that the government didn't bother to consult the residents of River Heights, which is one of the proposed housing sites. The people who live and pay taxes in that community will be impacted by the plan. When I raised that concern to a city employee at the September 4th information session, he responded that the information session was a “consultation”. From my perspective, this poster presentation informing us about what had already been decided was anything but a consultation. Many questions remain unanswered, concerns were dismissed, and better upstream solutions that address the root cause of homeless16

lifestyles55.net

ness were met with silence. The location at 75 Poseidon Bay is a concern for many who live in the neighborhood. It couldn’t be worse as it is near a soccer field, high school, elementary school, and library with children’s playground. Many of the people listed for these housing residences are known for criminal activity, addictions, and profound mental illness. Exposing children to needles and other related safety risks is incomprehensible. Further, what will happen to the much-needed parking space at the Pan Am Clinic and Diamond Athletic? Why don’t they use vacant buildings downtown or take the opportunity to revitalize some of the boarded-up homes and vacant lots in areas that need sprucing up? Why would they disturb and develop an area that doesn’t need it? Why don't they build proper detox, rehab, and mental health treatment facilities instead of not a housing complex next door for the many people with addictions and mental health illness found homeless on the streets? I didn’t meet anyone at the session who was in favor of this supportive housing plan. Some felt the government doesn’t care what the taxpayers have to say. It sounds more like a dictatorship than democracy. Something that pulled on my heart strings was a 97-year-old lady who made the effort to attend the information session. She has lived and paid taxes here for a very long time. When she looked at the list of groups who have been selected to receive supportive housing she said, “I wish someone would build me a home”. One has got to wonder how it is that newcomers can get a Canadian government to build them a new home while our senior population and our veterans can’t. Charlene, A River Heights resident.

Freedoms in Canada

n the August 2025 Lifestyles 55 newspaper you wrote a couple articles about freedom in Canada being eroded. Freedom is something that is dear to people in democracies, but freedom comes responsibility and there have to be rules governing this freedom.

For example, without rules I can strip to my birthday suit and walk around Assiniboine Park on a Sunday afternoon. As for responsibility, if I choose not to vaccinate due to misinformation from social media or the pulpit, should I have the right to put others, especially children, at risk of being infected? If my choices can put others at risk, then it should be curtailed. You may remember Spock from the original Star Trek, he once stated the rights of the many outweigh the rights of the few and that should be adhered to when exercising our freedom of choice. You mentioned tattoos and abortion and not getting a vaccine are examples of choices some people make. There are numerous reasons why a person needs to have an abortion, yet you imply abortions shouldn't be publicly funded. Using that logic, anyone who becomes hospitalized due to being unvaccinated shouldn't be covered either and perhaps should cover the cost associated with any of their contacts that get hospitalized. An unvaccinated person who becomes infected will spread disease throughout schools, airplanes and other areas of society. You also wrote about the occupation of Ottawa by truckers. The right to demonstrate is a freedom we have and should not be taken from us; however, the trucker convoy moved from a demonstration to an occupation after about three days, especially when they set up bouncy castles, etc. As for the PM addressing the group, I agree with his choice not to. I'm 70 years old and demonstrations have been happening on Parliament Hill as long as I can remember and I can't recall the PM ever making an appearance to talk with them. By speaking with the truckers, he would have legitimized the occupation, leading to future protests degrading into the same situation if the PM doesn't submit to their demands. When the truckers were asked to move, after about three weeks they refused, and I believe the use of exceptional powers was justified. After an inquest the courts deemed the government had overstepped their authority and was held accountable. A definition of what a demonstration is must be agreed upon so as to prevent this from happening again, also the government must create another act that gives the police stronger powers to act without bringing in the "big" guns.

While we are on the freedom of choice, I believe I should have the right to a dignified death. I have seen both my father and mother-in-law die from dementia and there is nothing dignified about it. Sitting in a chair not knowing anyone, drooling and soiling yourself, having to be spoon fed, and being hoisted into and out of bed. Once again, religious organizations are trying to take my freedoms away and force their beliefs on me. Freedoms as a Canadian right, but as stated, freedoms come with responsibility and rules. Freedoms cannot harm others and must follow a society norm and be within the laws of Canada and be dictated by religious beliefs of a few. Arthur Matthews Dear Arthur: You have made some valid points because there are degrees of everything and nothing is black and white. Still, many of the incursions into our freedoms that you cite have been contested in the past and the decisions taken then are being overridden now. The right to refuse medical treatment, including vaccinations, is one of these. Do you really believe that a few people refusing to be vaccinated are going infect the many? We know that at a certain point of acquired immunity the chances of being infected are gradually and greatly diminished. Nothing is for certain – not even vaccination. Think about the illogic of this argument applied to seat belts. We accept this restriction because we are forced to, but the chances of needing that “protection” are very small and the “cost” it would add to medical care even smaller. Spock’s admonition does not apply here. I agree that the truckers overstayed their welcome (although I don’t know that setting up a bouncy castle was an egregious act), but the Prime Minister could and should have listened to their concerns instead of hiding. He didn’t have to act, but he needed to listen. And by the way, the authorities in Ottawa did not handle any of this protest very well. I do not disagree with MAID. It is also a freedom, although asking for it raises the question about whether any particular doctor should be forced to agree to the request. They have the freedom to follow their own consciences, too. Thank you for your letter. We do agree on a number of things, and it is okay to disagree on others. That is the most important freedom of all. Dorothy October 2025

Ottawa’s EV gamble just cost canola farmers billions

Conrad Eder warns that Ottawa’s EV subsidies have backfired, fueling a trade war with China and slamming Western Canada’s canola farmers with billion in losses. One political gamble, countless unintended losers. Conrad Eder

October 2025

panded financial support for canola producers. More subsidies. More distortion. Another Band-Aid for another self-inflicted wound. Ironically, Canada’s farm sector already receives substantial government support. Now it’s receiving even more just to survive Ottawa’s protection of a separate subsidized industry. That’s the trouble with industrial policy: helping one sector often means hurting another. And taxpayers get the privilege of funding both. There’s a better way forward: it doesn’t involve doubling down on mistakes. The solution is to stop the engineering and let the economy

breathe. Lower taxes. Fewer regulations. Neutral infrastructure investment. These create the conditions for businesses to rise or fall on merit. That’s how innovation flourishes: through competition, not cabinetlevel favouritism. It’s not hard to follow the dominoes. EV subsidies triggered Chinese tariffs. Tariffs triggered canola retaliation. Canola retaliation now triggers demands for bailouts. One attempt to pick winners has manufactured a long list of losers. Had Ottawa stuck with free-trade principles, Canadians could’ve had more affordable EVs, taxpayers would’ve saved billions, and canola

farmers would still have access to a vital export market. Instead, we get a chain reaction of policy “fixes,” each one compensating for the damage done by the last— each one digging the hole deeper. When governments try to engineer economic outcomes, citizens foot the bill. The real lesson? Governments are great at creating problems. Markets are better at solving them. If Canada wants a prosperous economic future, it must stop betting the farm on political hunches and let competitive markets do the cultivating. Conrad Eder is a policy analyst at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy.

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estern Canada’s canola farmers are the latest victims of misguided government industrial policy Economic policy is more like gardening than engineering. You can shovel all the money you want into trying to grow coconuts in a Canadian winter, but you’ll achieve far better results—and feed many more people—by planting potatoes in the spring and letting nature run its course. For Canada, that means embracing policies that create fertile ground for all businesses to compete, innovate, and serve consumers. Ottawa, unfortunately, prefers to play God with the weather. What began as economic tinkering has triggered a cascade of interventions now devastating Canada’s canola industry. Rather than letting the market determine Canada’s strengths, federal and provincial politicians decided they knew better, wagering $52.5 billion to lure EV and battery manufacturers to Canada. Massive public subsidies were placed on a handful of firms and technologies. The Parliamentary Budget Officer delivered a sobering assessment of this boondoggle: it could take decades for taxpayers to break even on these subsidies—and only if nothing goes sideways. Well, you know what they say about best-laid plans. After committing billions, Ottawa faced an awkward truth: Chinese manufacturers were eating our lunch, offering EVs at lower prices, thanks in part to their own subsidies. Instead of reversing course, Ottawa hit the panic button and slapped a 100 per cent tariff on Chinese EVs. Let’s be clear: this wasn’t about national security or consumer protection. It was about salvaging one of the largest industrial bets in Canadian history. Yes, some sectors require targeted oversight to protect privacy and safety. EVs aren’t one of them. Their risks can be managed with targeted regulations and technical safeguards. But the tariffs do real damage by blocking affordable EVs and denying Canadians the right to judge for themselves. Predictably, China didn’t take the tariffs lying down. In March, Beijing slapped 100 per cent duties on Canadian canola oil. In August, it hit canola seed with 75.8 per cent tariffs, effectively shutting out Canadian farmers from a $4.9-billion market. Ninety-nine per cent of canola fields are in Western Canada. Canola is Canada’s top crop export, supporting tens of thousands of Prairie jobs and generating over $43 billion annually. Another trade war, another loselose. Canadians pay more for EVs. Chinese consumers pay more for food. And now, predictably, agricultural lobbyists are seeking Ottawa’s help. The government—having started the fire—has responded with $370 million in biofuel incentives and ex-

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Manitoba Association of Senior Communities 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 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 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 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 Senior Centre 117 Euclid Avenue / dzedzora107@gmail.com bkuluk751@gmail.com Old Grace Housing Co-op 100-200 Arlington Street wellness.oghc@gmail.com Pembina Active Living (55+) 933 Summerside Avenue / 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

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GET CONNECTED - JOIN A CENTRE! Stay Active - Stay Connected www.manitobaseniorcommunities.ca

Rainbow Resource Centre 545 Broadway / 204-474-0212 ext 255 OTR@rainbowresourcecentre.org www.rainbowresourcecentre.org

ERICKSON Comfort Drop In Centre 31 Main Street / 204-636-2047 areas@mymts.net

RIVERTON Riverton Seniors Activity Centre 12 Main Street / 204-378-5155 rdfc@mymts.net / www.rivertonfc.com

The Salvation Army Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre 51 Morrow Avenue / 204-946-9153 sheila.keys@salvationarmy.ca

FLIN FLON Flin Flon Seniors 2 North Avenue / 204-687-7308

ROSSBURN Rossburn Community Resource Council 71 Main Street / 204-859-3386 rosscomm@outlook.com

Somali Help Age Association 519 Beverley Street / 204-881-6364 somalihelpage@gmail.com 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

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 204-534-6816 / seniorservicetm@gmail.com 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 ELIE Cartier Senior Citizens Support Committee Inc. 11 Magloire Street, Suite #1 / 204-353-2470 cartierseniors55@outlook.com

GILBERT PLAINS Gilbert Plains and District Community Resource Council Inc. 204-548-4131 / gpdcrc@mymts.net gpseniors.ca

SANDY LAKE Sandy Lake Drop In Centre 100 Main St. / 204-585-2411

Gilbert Plains Drop In Centre 22 Main Street North / 204-548-2210

Municipality of Harrison Park - Age Friendly Initiative Committee 204-585-5310

GIMLI Gimli New Horizons 55+ Centre 17 Loni Beach Road 204-642-7909 / gimli55@mts.net www.gimlinewhorizons.com

SELKIRK Gordon Howard Centre 384 Eveline Street / 204-785-2092 executivedirector@gordonhoward.ca www.gordonhoward.ca

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 204-248-7291 / ndslchezsoi@gmail.com

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

PILOT MOUND Pilot Mound Fellowship Centre 203 Broadway Avenue / 204-825-2873

East Beaches Resource Centre 3 Ateah Road / 204-756-6471 ebresourcec@gmail.com ebresourcec.weebly.com

PLUMAS Plumas Seniors Citizens Club Inc. 102 White Street / 204-386-2029

VIRDEN Seniors Access to Independent Living 204-851-2761 / sail.cao.2023@gmail.com

PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE Herman Prior Senior Services Centre 40 Royal Road N. / 204-857-6951 hermanpriorcentre@gmail.com www.hermanprior.com

WINKLER Winkler & District MP Senior Centre 102-650 South Railway Avenue 204-325-8964 director@winklerseniorcentre.com www.winklerseniorcentre.com

Portage Service for Seniors 40A Royal Road N. / 204-239-6312 psfsmeals@shaw.ca portageservicefors.wixsite.com/psfs

October 2025

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October 2025