Summer sees a plethora of farmers markets, with an abundance of fresh produce, but the late summer and autumn markets tend to see preserves, crafts and less perishable goods. But, in Manitoba, artisans, crafters and hobbyists hit their stride with the rush of winter indoor markets and the iconic winter craft show. These are the
Manitoba may possess the status as one of the oddest provinces in Canada. Ours is not a passive history or static geography, climate or environment. There are innumerable strange things and Manitoba oddities to celebrate here. Some occur on their own. Some need a little prodding from us residents. Nature in Manitoba Can Be Odd
Manitoba’s cultural and ethnic diversity begins with its founding nations. Actually, “founding nation,” not nations, since the entire North American continent, historically referenced by the indigenous population as Turtle Island, has been home to the First Nations people for between 23,000 to 30,000 years. The First Nations people may be constituted of different tribes and
The United States chose to invigorate Canadian national pride, although unintentionally. Yet, while Canadians largely choose to boycott the American neighbour (yes, “bour,” not “bor.”), the response is fragmented. The way Canadians respond is personal. The individual approaches to supporting our communities carry the sense of pride and anger mixed. It’s as if we are
“Rey” Reynoldo Pagtakhan emigrated from the Philippines in the 1960s, via the USA. Although he received his initial training in the Philippines, he continued his education in Canada. That is a statement about Mr. Pagtakhan. He is a true Manitoban with heart. He craved learning and progress, but valued people. This Manitoban With Heart Gives
Thanks to the US for their inadvertent help in opening international doors for Canadian small businesses. Thanks, as well, to the Team Canada approach to both responding to US tariffs and to a more global approach to trade. This opens many doors for small business across the country, including creating export opportunities in Manitoba. Many
It’s mid-August in Manitoba, and the annual Manitoba fall frenzy is in full swing. Our autumn magic begins as early as June, but it is only the human-induced frenzy. From mid-August to early November, our third season, and arguably our prettiest, races into winter. It combines the frenzied activity of people or animals preparing for
Middle of the road economy. Middle province. And even middle politics. But that doesn’t men that we are average, and Manitoba certainly isn’t boring. In fact, we are downright odd! You want proof that we are not bland and boring? Read along. Slurpee Capital of the World Yes, that’s us. For over 22 consecutive years,
With a population of roughly 750,000 and 340 free little lending libraries, Winnipeg has one of the highest per capita numbers of privately sponsored little lending libraries (1 for every 2200 people). While Minneapolis and Seattle have much more, both cities are more Canadian than American, anyway! It’s another example of Manitobans with Heart. These
Just on the southeast edge of Winnipeg, an iconic building opened 50 years ago (April 30, 1976). Since its first day, The Royal Winnipeg Mint is a real moneymaker. Of course, that was its sole purpose. It always was to be a place where coins, both collector and distributable, were “minted,” or made. All of
