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In today's edition of the Winnipeg Digest:

• Portage & Main Opening to Pedestrians Soon

• $5 Million Donation for U of M

• Restaurant of the Week

• Manitoba Launches Affordable Energy Plan

• Multiple events this week & more!

— Jas Singh

News

Portage & Main Opening to Pedestrians Soon

The Portage & Main intersection is about to see some major changes, and it’s all about making the city more accessible and walkable.

Info you need to know:

• The tender is anticipated to be awarded on November 8, 2024.

• Construction starts on November 15, 2024, and it'll wrap up just in time for summer on June 27, 2025.

• You'll finally be able to walk across Portage & Main at street level starting July 1, 2025 – no more underground maze!

• They're adding new traffic lights, fixing sidewalks, and even shortening the crossing distance for pedestrians. Plus, there’s going to be more space for people to hang out!

This is a huge win for the community, making it easier to get around and boosting foot traffic for local businesses throughout downtown. And with Winnipeg Transit launching its new network right after, the downtown is about to feel way more connected. It's a small step toward a more vibrant and pedestrian-friendly city!

$5 Million Donation for U of M

Dr. Gerald and Reesa Niznick just made a huge impact at the University of Manitoba, donating $5 million to support the construction of a new dental clinic on the Bannatyne campus. This state-of-the-art, 33,770 square foot space will be part of the new Dr. Gerald and Reesa Niznick Centre and is set to raise the bar for dental education.

For students, this means hands-on experience with the latest technology in a cutting-edge facility. It’s not just about learning in a classroom anymore—this new clinic will prepare students for real-world patient care, setting them up to make a big difference in oral health.

Ranked 4th in Canada for dentistry, the University of Manitoba is stepping up its game, and this new clinic will be a big part of that. With new classrooms, labs, and even a childcare centre, it’s an exciting time to be a dental student at UM!

Restaurant of the Week: La Belle Baguette

Looking for some of the best croissants in Winnipeg? La Belle Baguette is your place! We stopped by last Friday, and everything was fresh out of the oven.

The croissants? Unreal—crispy on the outside, soft and buttery inside. And the bread? You can smell how fresh it is the second you walk in. They’ve got it all—tarts, cinnamon buns, danishes, you name it.

They’re right in the heart of St. Boniface at 248 De La Cathedrale Ave. But heads up—they sell out fast on weekends, so show up early if you want to snag a few of their famous almond or chocolate croissants. Whether you’re grabbing a quick pastry or picking up a fresh loaf for dinner, La Belle Baguette is an absolute must. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Community News

Manitoba Launches Affordable Energy Plan

Manitoba is stepping into a future of clean, affordable energy with its newly launched Affordable Energy Plan. Here’s what it means:

• Wind energy partnerships with Indigenous communities will create new jobs and help keep energy rates low.

• Lower energy costs thanks to investments in wind generation and improvements to Manitoba Hydro’s existing infrastructure.

• New public EV chargers will be installed, making it easier for Manitobans to make eco-friendly choices.

• Stronger energy codes for homes and buildings will save families money in the long run by reducing energy consumption.

• The plan also includes stricter regulations for oil and gas, ensuring environmental safety across the province.

Manitoba is focused on building a greener future, and this plan is a big win for the community. From cleaner energy to job creation, it’s a step forward for both your wallet and the environment!

Local Business Embraces Truth and Reconciliation

With Orange Shirt Day around the corner, the Amsterdam Tea Room in Winnipeg is stepping up to support Truth and Reconciliation in a unique way.

As reported by CityNews, The business has partnered with Métis artist Christine Brouzes, whose handmade pins will be sold at the tea room to spark conversations about Canada’s history and Indigenous peoples.

The shop’s staff proudly wear the pins, especially in September, to engage with customers about the importance of Orange Shirt Day. By closing their doors on September 30, the Amsterdam Tea Room is taking a stand and showing how local businesses can play a part in reconciliation.

New Park Celebrates Indigenous Leader

Giizhigooweyaabikwe Park in Winnipeg’s Centennial neighbourhood just got an amazing upgrade! The park, named after Indigenous community leader Leslie Spillet, now features a half-court basketball area, picnic tables, and better lighting, making it a safer and more inviting place for families.

The renovations, supported by local and federal partnerships, mean the community now has a refreshed space to gather, play, and connect. With a community water fountain and brand-new pathways, Giizhigooweyaabikwe Park is now set to be a hub where families can come together and enjoy the outdoors for years to come.

Winnipeg Sports

Jets Announce 2024-25 Broadcast Schedule

Jets fans, it’s time to gear up! The Winnipeg Jets just revealed their 2024-25 broadcast schedule. TSN3 will air 60 regular season games, starting with the home opener on October 11 against the Chicago Blackhawks. You can catch 29 home games and 31 away games, with additional coverage on Hockey Night in Canada and Monday Night Hockey on Amazon Prime. Preseason action is already underway, so tune in and get ready for an exciting season!

Blue Bombers Keep Winning Streak Alive

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are on a roll, securing their sixth straight win with a 27-14 victory over the Edmonton Elks. After a shaky start to the season, the Bombers have found their rhythm, thanks to key players like Brady Oliveira, who rushed for 127 yards and two touchdowns. As they push toward the playoffs, the team’s momentum has fans buzzing. It’s been an exciting turnaround for the team, and the Bombers are looking stronger than ever!

Events coming up this week:

This section includes only the major events happening soon. For a complete list of all events, you'll have to wait for future editions!

• Melee Gala IX | 6:30PM, Sept 26 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

  • Description: It's their annual Melee Gala Event, a staple in the Manitoba boxing community. It's the only official international event that Manitoba hosts of this caliber. (Fundraiser for United Way Winnipeg)

• Art Exhibition and Sale 50 to 500 | Sept 27 - Oct 19 (More Info)

  • Location: Urban Shaman Contemporary Aboriginal Art (203-290 McDermot Avenue)

  • Description: 50 to 500’ exhibition, featuring artwork by talented members priced between 50 cents and 500 dollars. Opening reception on Friday, September 27th, 2024, from 5 to 9 pm.

• Nuit Blanche 2024 | 6PM, Sept 28 (More Info)

  • Location: Multiple Locations

  • Description: Artists, performers, galleries, cultural organisations and independent curators create and host their own events around the city.

• GATHER | 9AM-4PM, Sept 28 (More Info)

  • Location: Lyric Theatre, Assiniboine Park

  • Description: Feature rotating choir performances, food vendors, an artisan/maker market, and creative spaces set up around the grounds.

• Grand Truck Vintage Show | 10AM, Sept 28 (More Info)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs (3975 Portage Ave)

  • Description: Manitoba's Largest fall Vintage & Collectibles sale.

Exciting Events: Sept 23rd & 24th

This section only includes events starting on Sept 23rd or 24th.

Music 🎵

• Daniel O'Donnell | Sept 23-24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

  • Description: The Donegal based singer, who is one of the most prolific and successful recording artists in the UK charts.

• Movements & Turnover with Queen of Jeans | 8PM, Sept 23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Park Theatre (698 Osborne St)

• TESTAMENT and KREATOR | 6:50PM, Sept 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre (364 Smith Street)

  • Genre: Metal

• Sam Hunt Locked Up Tour | 7:30PM, Sept 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Genre: Country!

• Xana plus Roman Clarke | 7PM, Sept 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: West End Cultural Centre (586 Ellice Avenue)

• The Road to BreakOut West Showcase | 7PM, Sept 24

  • Location: The Handsome Daughter (61 Sherbrook Street)

  • Performers: CEC/Diaphanie/Nú Baby/Slow Spirit

Family Fun🎆

• Culture Days Events | FREE, Multiple Location, Sept 23 - Oct 13 (Info)

• Note: Below is only an example of some of the events, please click “Info” above to see all.

  • Green Acres Arts Collective Exhibit, Sept 23-26. This special exhibit showcases the creative works of eight talented student artists from the Green Acres Art Centre. (More Info)

  • Queer Media Meetup, 6:30PM, Sept 24. a place for folks to get together and talk about their favourite queer books, movies, tv shows, and even video games! (More Info)

  • ArchitecTOUR: Muse Flats & 308 Colony Street, 12-1PM, Sept 24. Explore the completed Muse Flats, a standout Bockstael project, and get an exclusive overview of the new 21-storey, mixed-use high-rise currently under construction at 308 Colony Street. (More Info)

• Corn Maze @ A Maze In Corn | Sept 23 - Oct 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: A Maze In Corn (1351 Provincial Rd 200)

  • Description: Enjoy the country views while wandering through the corn maze, climb the giant bale pyramid, and visit the petting zoo.

• Live Horse Racing | 7:30PM, Sept 23-25 (Free)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

  • Description: Horse racing, 140 VLTs and fabulous dining - it’s fun you can bet on!

• Mini Mondays at the Children's Museum | 10AM - 2PM, Sept 23 (More Info)

  • Location: Manitoba Children's Museum (45 Forks Market Road)

  • Description: Stimulating play designed for young visitors, children under 4 years old!

• Toddler Tuesdays at The Leaf | 9:30-10AM, Sept 24 (More Info)

  • Location: Mediterranean Biome at The Leaf

  • Description: Your little one will enjoy music and games, listen to fascinating stories, and discover the joy of movement in the beautiful Mediterranean Biome.

• Free Drinks Tuesday | 6:30PM - 11:30PM, Sept 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Cleocatra Cafe (859 Portage Avenue)

  • Description: With Every Ticket Visiting The Cat Room On Tuesday, You’ll Receive A Free Drink Of Your Choice!

Special

• Tuesdays with Morrie Play | Sept 23 -29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Winnipeg Jewish Theatre (C 148-123 Doncaster Street)

  • Description: A humorous and poignant story of career-obsessed journalist Mitch Albom, who sixteen years after graduation serendipitously learns that his former professor Morrie is battling Lou Gehrig's Disease.

• Bruce McCulloch Comedy | 9PM, Sept 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Park Theatre (698 Osborne Street)

• Emmanuel Lomuro Comedy | Sept 24-25 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club (190-2025 Corydon Avenue)

  • Description: His style has been described as high energy with the ability to relate to many different types of people, sometimes called a comedic chameleon.

• Reel Pride Film Festival 2024 | Sept 24-28 (More Info)

  • Location: Gas Station Arts Centre (445 River Avenue)

• Bed & Breakfast Play | Sept 24 -Oct 6 (Tickets)

  • Location: Prairie Theatre Exchange (Y300 – 393 Portage Avenue)

  • Description: When Brett inherits the family home, he and Drew move out of quick-paced Toronto to set up a B&B in a quiet little tourist town. But will these big city boys face friction in their new community?

School🏫

• Discover your Future in Science - Mathematical and Computing Sciences | 5:45PM, Sept 24th (More Info)

  • Location: SSA lounge - 209E Armes

  • Description: How does your future in science look? How can you get co-op or internship opportunities? Who is here to support you?

Note: Please leave additional feedback after the poll!

CHEERS!

Thanks for reading The Winnipeg Digest! I’ll see you again on Wednesday!

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