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New Vending Machine Offers Free HIV Tests, Naloxone Kits at St. Boniface Hospital 9:45 AM (8 hours ago)

WINNIPEG — A new high-tech health vending machine offering free HIV self-tests, naloxone kits, and other wellness supplies is now available at St. Boniface Hospital.

The initiative, part of the national Our Healthbox program by REACH Nexus, aims to reduce health inequities and expand access to essential care.

The machine is available 24/7 and also offers harm reduction supplies, menstrual and hygiene products, and community health resources. It’s the second Healthbox installed in Winnipeg (in addition to the NorWest Co-op Community Health Clinic) and the 12th in Canada.

“Our Healthbox is a safe, non-judgmental, and anonymous way for people in our community to access the wellness supplies and support they need to stay safe and healthy,” said Katarina Lee Ameduri, director of ethics at Reseau Compassion Network and clinical ethicist at St. Boniface Hospital.

“We love our community and are passionate about harm reduction and ending the HIV epidemic. We hope people across Manitoba will see our St. Boniface Healthbox as a beacon of hope and care.”

Developed by Dr. Sean B. Rourke of St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, the initiative combines smart technology with public health tools to meet the needs of underserved communities.

“It’s about caring for and empowering people to take control of their own health and well-being, in ways that work for them — no matter where they live,” said Rourke.

The program has already distributed more than 48,000 health items nationwide and plans to expand further across Canada.

The new vending machine in Winnipeg was funded by BMO and the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR).

Police Bust B.C.-to-Winnipeg Drug Trafficking Network, Seize $180K in Narcotics 9:36 AM (8 hours ago)

An interprovincial drug trafficking operation running between British Columbia and Manitoba has been dismantled following a months-long investigation by Winnipeg police.

The investigation, which began in December 2024, uncovered a large-scale operation in which illicit drugs were shipped from B.C. to Winnipeg. In early January 2025, authorities intercepted a shipment containing 10 kilograms of methamphetamine and 2 kilograms of cocaine sent from a commercial business in Surrey, B.C. The drugs were turned over to the RCMP Surrey detachment and later seized as evidence.

Between January and March, police executed several search warrants at residences and businesses across Winnipeg, as well as at Stony Mountain Institution. Seized items included drugs with an estimated street value of $180,000, nearly $46,000 in cash, drug packaging materials, stun guns, illegal cigarettes worth $36,000, vehicles with tampered VINs, cell phones, and weapons.

In total, six individuals were arrested and face a range of charges including drug trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime, weapons offences, and tampering with vehicle identification numbers. One of the suspects was already in custody at Stony Mountain Institution. While most were detained, one 30-year-old Winnipeg man was released to appear in court.

Ontario Man Charged After Alleged Luring and Assault of Winnipeg Teen 7:57 AM (9 hours ago)

A 49-year-old Ontario man has been charged after allegedly luring and sexually assaulting a Winnipeg teen.

Winnipeg police say the suspect, identified as Scott Christopher Alcorn of Red Lake, Ontario, began communicating with a girl in her mid-teens through private messages on social media in December 2024. Investigators allege he gained her trust and arranged to meet her in person.

In early April, Alcorn travelled to Winnipeg, where police later located him and the victim together at a local residence on April 11. He was arrested without incident and remains in custody.

Police allege the teen was sexually assaulted at the residence.

Alcorn is facing multiple charges, including sexual assault, sexual interference, luring a person under 16 via telecommunications, and distributing sexually explicit material to a minor.

He remains in custody.

Winnipeg Golf Courses Opening April 19, Including New Addition 7:51 AM (9 hours ago)

The City of Winnipeg’s municipal golf courses will officially open for the season on Saturday, April 19, with a new course joining the lineup.

Canoe Club Golf Course at 50 Dunkirk Drive will join Crescent Drive, Kildonan Park, and Windsor Park courses and can now be booked online, by calling the respective pro shops, or by contacting 311.

Spring rates will be in effect at Kildonan Park and Windsor Park until May 2.

For full details or to book a round, visit winnipeg.ca/golf.

Jets Sign Forward Alex Iafallo to Three-Year Extension 7:25 AM (10 hours ago)

The Winnipeg Jets have locked in forward Alex Iafallo with a three-year contract extension carrying an average annual value of $3.67 million USD, the team announced Wednesday.

The new deal will kick in for the 2025–26 season.

Iafallo, 31, has played all 81 games for Winnipeg this season, posting 31 points (15 goals, 16 assists) and 15 penalty minutes. He currently ranks third on the team with a plus-21 rating and is riding a four-game point streak.

Originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Los Angeles Kings in 2017, the Eden, New York native has appeared in 583 NHL games between Winnipeg and L.A., totalling 262 points (111 goals, 151 assists) and 101 penalty minutes. He’s also recorded 10 points in 21 career playoff games.

Province Commits $500K to Support Dauphin’s Countryfest 4:37 AM (13 hours ago)

The Manitoba government is providing $500,000 in one-time grant funding to support Dauphin’s Countryfest, ensuring the long-running festival continues to thrive.

“As Manitobans are increasingly impacted by tariffs down south, it’s important to preserve the organizations here at home that create economic activity, drive tourism and support culture – making us proud,” said Premier Wab Kinew.

“Supporting this event will make sure country music lovers can continue to kick off their summer with first-class entertainment.”

Running since 1990, Dauphin’s Countryfest is Canada’s longest-running country music festival and draws thousands each year. The event is powered by more than 2,000 volunteers and regularly features a mix of international headliners and local Manitoba talent.

The 2025 edition of Countryfest runs June 26 to 29 at the Selo Ukraina site, just south of Dauphin.

For details, visit countryfest.ca.

Winnipeg Easter Weekend Hours: What’s Open and Closed 4:00 AM (13 hours ago)

Here’s a rundown of what’s open, closed or operating on a reduced schedule for Good Friday (April 18), Easter Sunday (April 20) and Easter Monday (April 21) in Winnipeg.

Civic Offices

Closed on Friday, April 18 and Monday, April 21, 2025.

Shopping Centres

• Kildonan Place — Open on Friday, April 18 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed on Sunday, April 20
• Grant Park — Closed on Friday, April 18 and closed on Sunday, April 20
• St. Vital Centre — Open on Friday, April 18 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed on Sunday, April 20
• Polo Park — Open on Friday, April 18 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, April 20 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Outlet Collection Winnipeg — Open on Friday, April 18 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed on Sunday, April 20

Manitoba Liquor Marts

All Manitoba Liquor Marts will be open for reduced hours on Friday, April 18 and Sunday, April 20. For specific store hours throughout the weekend, visit liquormarts.ca/hours.

Attractions

• Manitoba Museum — Open on Friday, April 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. but closed on Easter Monday.
• Assiniboine Park Zoo — Open daily all weekend from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Winnipeg Art Gallery — Closed on Friday, April 18 and Easter Monday. The WAG will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, April 20.
• Canadian Museum for Human Rights is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, April 18 and Sunday, April 20, but closed Easter Monday.

Recycling/Garbage Collection

Recycling and garbage will be collected as normally scheduled for those with Friday and Monday as their collection day.

Winnipeg Transit

On Friday, April 18, Winnipeg Transit will operate on a Sunday schedule.

Indoor Pools

Friday, April 18 – all pools are closed, with the exception of:

• Pan Am Pool: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Margaret Grant: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, April 19 – regular operating hours

Sunday, April 20 – regular operating hours, with all sites closing at 4 p.m.

Monday, April 21 – all pools are closed, with the exception of:

• Pan Am Pool: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Margaret Grant: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Libraries

All Winnipeg Public Library branches will be closed on Friday, April 18. Regular operating hours are in effect on Saturday, April 19. All branches are closed on Sunday, April 20.

On Monday, April 21, the following branches will open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.:

• Millennium
• Bill and Helen Norrie
• Henderson
• Louis Riel
• Pembina Trail
• St. James-Assiniboia
• West Kildonan

Fitness & Leisure Centres

Friday, April 18 – all fitness and leisure centres are closed, with the exception of:

• Pan Am Pool: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, April 19 – regular operating hours

Sunday, April 20 – regular operating hours, with all sites closing at 4 p.m.

Monday, April 21 – all fitness and leisure centres are closed, with the exception of:

• Pan Am Pool: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Animal Services

The Animal Services Agency will be closed on Friday, April 18 and Monday, April 21. The agency will be open regular business hours on Saturday, April 19 and Sunday, April 20, from noon until 5 p.m.

Cemeteries

Brookside, Transcona, and St. Vital cemeteries will remain open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; however, the Administration Office at Brookside Cemetery will be closed as of Friday, April 18, reopening on Tuesday, April 22.

Manitoba Premier Touts Increased Trade with Europe, Possible Second Hudson Bay Port 15 Apr 10:09 AM (yesterday, 10:09 am)

By Steve Lambert, The Canadian Press

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew expressed an openness Tuesday to a potential second port on Hudson Bay as a tool to help ramp up trade with Europe amid trade disputes with the United States.

It was the clearest sign to date that Kinew’s NDP government, elected in 2023, is ready to consider a long-term project to add shipping capacity away from the existing Port of Churchill, where the shipping season is limited to summer and the local economy depends on ecological tourism.

“I would say post-Trump, we’re open to that and to all options, and that a balancing consideration between growing our economy by accessing tidewater in Manitoba while protecting our environment — belugas, polar bears — is super important to get right.” Kinew told reporters following a meeting with representatives from the European Union and 18 member countries.

“And maybe looking at other port opportunities is part of how we sort out that balancing act in Manitoba.”

Ambassadors and high commissioners from the European Union and member countries are on a tour of the Prairie provinces to discuss trade, cultural ties and other matters.

Tuesday’s meeting was a chance to show the countries, which represent a market of 450 million people, that Manitoba is open for increased trade in energy, agriculture and other sectors.

The high-level government talks could lead to companies in Europe investing in trade in critical minerals, energy and other goods that can be shipped through Hudson Bay and the Arctic, Kinew said.

Genevieve Tuts, ambassador of the European Union to Canada, said prior to the meeting that opportunities for more trade exist.

“We want to focus on energy, clean energy and … you have high-level standards,” Tuts told Kinew at the start of the meeting, referring to Manitoba’s low-carbon hydroelectric power.

“We want to focus on raw materials so important for the digital transition, economic co-operation with Indigenous peoples, but also biotech.”

A second port on Hudson Bay — south of Churchill, near the mouth of the Nelson River — has been discussed, on and off, for decades. It has often been dismissed as far too expensive for the amount of material shipped through the region, as well as a potential environmental hazard should oil or other material be part of the plan.

The former Progressive Conservative government promised $6.7 million in 2023, weeks before it was voted out of office, for a feasibility study on the NeeStaNan Utility Corridor project. The idea would see a pipeline or new rail line transport bitumen, potash and other commodities from as far away as Fort McMurray, Alta., to the Nelson River site.

Supporters say Port Nelson could handle larger ships than Churchill and operate beyond Churchill’s limited summer season. But it would require massive infrastructure investments in the remote area.

Kinew said there may be more appetite for big projects in the current international political climate and the desire by many countries to diversify trade.

“What Manitoba brings to the table is low-carbon electricity, tidewater and a government that is serious about working well with Indigenous nations,” the premier said.

“If businesses, whether in the EU or in other parts of Canada, want to come here, I would welcome investment where they bring the capital.”

Mayor Gillingham Urges Federal Candidates to Prioritize Public Safety 15 Apr 9:52 AM (yesterday, 9:52 am)

Mayor Scott Gillingham is urging federal candidates in Winnipeg to make public safety and justice reform key priorities in their election campaigns, calling for stronger federal action to address repeat violent offenders.

In a letter sent to local candidates, Gillingham pointed to concerns about rising crime and weaknesses in bail enforcement, saying that federal support is needed to complement local efforts.

“We’ve made important investments in policing, transit safety, and youth programs, but local efforts can only go so far without meaningful change at the federal level,” said Gillingham.

“We need stronger bail enforcement, targeted legislation for repeat offenders, and greater federal support for mental health and rehabilitation.”

The mayor’s appeal follows his State of the City address, where he criticized federal bail laws for failing to keep dangerous individuals off the streets. He also sent a similar letter to national party leaders in March.

Locally, Winnipeg has added 36 police officers, launched a community safety team, and expanded youth outreach programs. Gillingham emphasized the need for a committed federal partner to restore confidence in the justice system.

The issue was further discussed at the AMM Spring Convention on Tuesday at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg.

Manitoba Invests $1.5M in New Women’s Recovery Centre 15 Apr 7:56 AM (yesterday, 7:56 am)

The Manitoba government is committing $1.5 million to support the construction and launch of the Anne Oake Family Recovery Centre, a new facility designed to help women recover from addiction while remaining close to their children.

The 75,000-square-foot centre will feature 50 to 70 treatment beds and an on-site child-care facility. Of the funding, $1 million will go toward construction and $500,000 will support startup operations.

“The Anne Oake Family Recovery Centre will be a place of hope, where generations of women and families can begin again,” said Scott Oake, president, Bruce and Anne Oake Memorial Foundation Inc.

“In honouring Anne’s legacy, we are answering a deeper call — to walk alongside those who need love and support the most. We are so proud to be part of this journey and so grateful to the province for believing in it.”

Led by the Bruce and Anne Oake Memorial Foundation, the project is part of a $25-million capital campaign. As of September 2024, $13 million had been raised.

Watch Tuesday’s news conference:

Two Injured in Early Morning Fire at Panet Road Industrial Facility 15 Apr 7:42 AM (yesterday, 7:42 am)

Winnipeg emergency crews responded to an early morning fire and medical emergency at an industrial facility on Panet Road Tuesday.

Firefighters were called to the 100 block of Panet Road just before 3:30 a.m. Crews quickly extinguished a small fire at the site.

Two workers were injured in the incident. Paramedics treated both individuals at the scene, with one transported to hospital in unstable condition and the other in stable condition.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, though it is currently believed to be accidental.

Burt Block Party Returns to Downtown Winnipeg for Fifth Year 15 Apr 5:54 AM (yesterday, 5:54 am)

Downtown Winnipeg will once again come alive with music, food, and festival energy as the Burt Block Party returns for its fifth year this summer.

Running from August 14 to 17, the outdoor concert series will transform the area outside the Burton Cummings Theatre into a four-night celebration of live music.

Headliners for the 2025 edition include Canadian country star Dean Brody, pop-rockers Marianas Trench, alt-rock favourites The Glorious Sons, and classic rock icon Kim Mitchell. Up to 4,000 fans are expected each night.

“We’re thrilled to announce our fifth year of live music outside in downtown Winnipeg this August,” said Ruben Ramalheiro, director of live Entertainment for True North Sports + Entertainment.

“Burt Block Parties have become a beloved tradition, where our city comes together to revel in the performances of their favourite bands against the stunning backdrop of our Winnipeg skyline. Each year we fine-tune and enhance this event, and we’re eagerly anticipating everyone’s enjoyment of what we’ve prepared for this special fifth year.”

Full lineup:

• Thursday, Aug. 14: Dean Brody, Owen Riegling, Hailey Benedict, Brandi Vezina
• Friday, Aug. 15: Marianas Trench, Down with Webster, Fefe Dobson, and guests
• Saturday, Aug. 16: The Glorious Sons, Everclear, JJ Wilde, and guests
• Sunday, Aug. 17: Kim Mitchell, Chilliwack, Harlequin, and guests

Tickets go on sale Friday, April 18 at 10 a.m., with early-bird pricing starting at $59.50 (plus fees) for the first 500 tickets. VIP options include premium viewing decks, exclusive bar access, and perks like complimentary drinks and popcorn. Full four-day passes are also available for those looking to attend the entire weekend.

An Unwavering Commitment to Manitoba’s Economy 15 Apr 4:30 AM (yesterday, 4:30 am)

The following is a sponsored advertorial on behalf of Manitoba Pork.

Farmers, much like any business owner in Manitoba, put capital at risk to run their business. Ideally, the capital used to run the business, including money to pay employees, purchase supplies and inputs, heat barns, and transport pigs to market would be recouped at the end of a production cycle. Uncertainty in the market puts that capital and any profits in jeopardy and puts the livelihoods of those farmers and the 22,000 Manitobans that are employed in the hog sector at risk.

“To keep my barns in operation, I know I need to continuously reinvest in critical needs, as does our province,” said Scott Peters, a hog and grain farmer from southeast Manitoba. “Unpredictablility in the global marketplace threatens my ability to do that, just as it threatens the province’s.”

Statistics compiled by Economic Development Winnipeg show that Manitoba’s hog sector contributes more than two times as much as the provincial aerospace sector to the Manitoba economy, and trails only the transportation, advanced manufacturing, and energy sectors in terms of economic impact. Manitoba’s hog sector contributes over $2.3 billion to the provincial GDP each year, equivalent to 72 new elementary schools in South Pointe.

Manitoba’s agricultural sector relies on exports. Manitoba exports about $9.3 billion worth of agriculture and food products every year. Manitoba’s hog sector exports pork around the world, to countries like the United States, Japan, China, and 23 others. Manitoba is one of the top pork producers in the country, and pork from our province is sought all around the world, in grocery counters and restaurant kitchens alike.

“Owning a business with my partners, employing people who have become our friends and who can afford to do things like put their kids in hockey, or soccer, or dance because of a well-paying job in our barns really means a lot to me,” added Scott. “That financial impact means a lot to communities like mine, because we all know how important jobs can be both to individuals and to local businesses as well.”

An unpredictable environment also can cause uneasiness among consumers. Data from Probe Research shows that 75% of Manitobans are looking to support the Canadian economy over products from countries like the United States. Supporting the Canadian hog sector is simple – look for a reference to Western Canadian or Western Canada on the package or for the Verified Canadian Pork label when you shop, or support Canadian processors like Maple Leaf, HyLife, and Winkler Meats, to name just a few.

“As a farmer, I’m used to confronting challenges that we can’t control and those we can”, concluded Scott. “I love farming and producing a high-quality protein that’s recognized and enjoyed here in Manitoba and in countries all over the world.”

There is no doubt that supply chains, prices, and trade will be impacted by the chaos, uncertainty and unpredictability that lies ahead. Regardless, Manitoba’s hog sector remains committed to producing safe, high-quality pork for Manitobans, Canadians and consumers around the world.

To learn more, visit manitobapork.com/economy

Woman Arrested During Demonstration Near Lemay Forest 14 Apr 1:26 PM (2 days ago)

A 39-year-old woman was arrested Monday morning during a demonstration near the Lemay Forest in Winnipeg.

Winnipeg police officers were in the area around Rue Landry and Avenue De La Digue at around 10 a.m. to maintain peace amid tensions between demonstrators and workers authorized to be on the property.

Police say the woman was taken into custody after allegedly entering private property and interfering with employees on site.

She is facing charges of contempt of court and mischief interfering with the enjoyment of property. She was released to appear in court.

Premier Wab Kinew announced Monday that the province will be expropriating the land at Lemay Forest to turn it into a provincial park.

Two Men Arrested in String of Thefts Across Winnipeg 14 Apr 12:01 PM (2 days ago)

Winnipeg police have arrested two men in connection with a series of property crimes spanning nearly two months, involving stolen vehicles, license plates, and personal belongings valued in the thousands.

Police launched an investigation in March 2025, linking the suspects to multiple incidents dating back to mid-February. Among the crimes were vehicle thefts, break-ins, fraudulent use of stolen credit cards, and the theft of more than a dozen license plates.

On April 11, officers arrested 29-year-old Reece Alexander Turnbull in the 3200 block of Portage Avenue. Police say he was in possession of a knife, stolen identification, and forged business cheques. Turnbull faces multiple charges, including possession of stolen property over $5,000, possession of forged and identity documents, and failure to comply with a release order.

Two days later, officers arrested 36-year-old Daniel Conrad Searcy during an unrelated investigation. He was allegedly carrying a knife and six grams of methamphetamine. Investigators linked him to several of the reported thefts. Searcy faces more than a dozen charges, including possession of stolen property, possession of break-in instruments, drug possession, and fraud.

Both suspects remain in custody.