PORTAGE ROUNDUP: Christmas lights winner, solid ice and winter trails

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Skating on the Crescent Rinks open despite warm weather delays

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Skating on Crescent Lake is now available to residents and visitors alike. Local community group “Skating on the Crescent” makes sure to flood the south side of the lake across from Stride Place for everyone to use at their leisure. Warming shacks, benches, lights, and goalie nets are there for seasonal use.

Portage-Lisgar MP says Canadians frustrated amid Freeland resignation

Portage-Lisgar MP Branden Leslie is calling out Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Liberal government, describing recent events in Ottawa as “absolute chaos” following the resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland.

In an interview with The Graphic Leader, Leslie said the Liberals have “lost the moral authority to govern,” citing internal conflicts and what he sees as the Prime Minister’s weakening grip on his own caucus.

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“Prime Minister Trudeau has lost the confidence of many members of his cabinet, including his closest allies, and yet he refuses to let go,” said Leslie. “He’s clinging to power and dragging the country down in the process.”

West End overpass among completed projects in Manitoba’s fall construction push

The west end overpass in Portage la Prairie marked the completion of one of several major infrastructure projects wrapped up by the Manitoba government during the fall 2024 construction season.

The overpass, located at the interchange of the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 1A, was part of a $171.9-million investment to repair and rebuild key bridges across the province. Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor says the upgrades represent a significant step forward for Manitoba’s transportation network.

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“These projects are critical for keeping Manitobans moving,” said Naylor. “From improving safety to supporting economic growth, this work ensures our infrastructure can meet the needs of today and tomorrow.”

Portage Junk Yard Dogs’ trails ready for winter adventures

The Portage Junk Yard Dogs’ trail system is groomed and ready for winter enthusiasts from Portage la Prairie and surrounding communities. The 12-kilometre all-season biking and hiking trails along the Assiniboine River are now prepared for fat-tire biking, snowshoeing, and hiking.

In addition to these trails, the club maintains classic cross-country ski trails at the Portage Golf Club. Memberships, which are required to use the trails, fund their construction and maintenance. Individual memberships cost $40 annually, while family passes are available for $65.

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The Junk Yard Dogs also manage the city’s Activity Park at the Old Dump Hill, which features a cycling skills park, wheelchair-accessible nature trail, and a refurbished toboggan hill. Unlike the trails, the Activity Park is open to the public and requires no membership.

Valdy to headline 11th annual Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival

Legendary Canadian folk artist Valdy will headline the 11th annual Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival on August 23 and 24, organizers announced Monday.

The festival, a staple of Portage la Prairie’s arts scene, celebrates musical talent from Manitoba and beyond. This year, Valdy, an Ottawa-born singer-songwriter now based on Salt Spring Island, B.C., will bring his decades-long legacy to the stage.

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Known offstage as Paul Valdemar Horsdal, Valdy is a two-time Juno Award winner and a member of the Order of Canada. His career spans more than 50 years, with hits that landed him in Canada’s Top 40 charts for 12 weeks in the 1970s. He has performed extensively across North America and Europe.

508 10th Street NW declared best lit in Portage

The City of Portage la Prairie has crowned 508 10th Street NW the winner of this year’s Holiday Lights Contest.

Winners Jaimie and Shane Buechler feel their son Nathan is the real winner as he did most of the decorating. The competition showcased festive displays across the city, with photos posted online for public voting. Residents were invited to react with emojis, including “like,” “love,” “care,” or “wow,” to support their favourites.

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