Each election has its own dynamic, and it is unwise to try to draw out too many comparisons between different jurisdictions. And yet, every time voters exercise their democratic right anywhere in Canada it is still worth looking to see what lessons can be learned from the outcome.

The recent provincial election in British Columbia, in which the provincial Conservative Party defeated the incumbent NDP government, demonstrates both points well. The snap election call, only two years into the mandate of the NDP government, is interesting for political watchers on a number of levels.

First, the lesson. It was clear from the outset that the governing NDP was trying to capitalize on the turmoil (some may say chaos) that had consumed the right side of the political spectrum in B.C. for almost two years. While NDP Premier David Eby tried to convince British Columbians that the election was about protecting the province from Donald Trump, voters very quickly concluded that it was about nothing more than political opportunism. And they were not happy about an election called two years before it was required.

While federal and provincial governments have not always been punished at the polls for calling an early election, there are more than a few examples in Canadian history where the public decides to punish political parties that ask them to vote early. The British Columbia example will certainly be one that political observers use in the future when pointing out the danger of putting political opportunism so clearly on display in front of the electorate.

Steinbach Arts Council has teamed up with Rocco’s Pizzeria as one of four local charities featured in their community fundraising initiative. From now until Nov. 8, $5 from every specialty “The Da Vinci” pizza sold will go directly toward supporting SAC’s arts and culture programming. Topped with tomato basil sauce, mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, Italian salami, prosciutto, and parmesan flakes, the custom pie brings gourmet flavour to a vital local cause.

As one of the largest rural arts councils in Canada, SAC has seen its programming nearly double in size, serving thousands of participants across the Southeast through accessible visual, theatrical, and heritage arts. This grassroots partnership highlights how local businesses and community organizations can collaborate to foster creative growth. Residents can support the initiative by ordering a Da Vinci pizza at Rocco’s Pizzeria, ensuring that dinner does a little good for the community at the same time.

Winter class and workshop registration opens Nov. 4

Registration for the Steinbach Arts Council’s Winter 2027 season opens Nov. 4, 2026.

“Secrecy, being an instrument of conspiracy, ought never to be the system of a regular government.” - Jeremy Bentham.

That quote is as relevant today as it was when Jeremy Bentham said it.

Born in 1748, Bentham was an English philosopher, economist, jurist and social reformer. He’s often described as the founder of modern utilitarianism and during his life championed prison reform, animal welfare, decriminalization of same-sex relationships, the abolition of slavery, equal rights for women, divorce rights, universal suffrage, freedom of expression and the separation of church and state.

His ideas may have been on the fringe during his lifetime, (he died at 84 in 1832), and they still seem to be hard to grasp for many in society.

Each year, on Nov. 11, we reflect on the sacrifice that many Canadians have made for us. In Canada we enjoy many freedoms and peace because of the work these men and women do. This month, we bring our communities together, and say thank you to those who have fought, and are fighting for us every day.

I will have the privilege of attending the Remembrance Day Ceremony in Niverville and laying a wreath on behalf of the province. In St Adolphe and Springfield, my representatives will also lay wreaths to honour the sacrifice made by our veterans.

Getting to interact and hear the stories of veterans is humbling. These veterans left their families and friends to go and fight for our country. It is truly a sacrifice like no other. For that, I say thank you. As Manitobans, it is our job to show support for our veterans. Something as simple as wearing a poppy this week shows how much we appreciate the grand sacrifice these heroes have made.

Remembrance Day reminds us of the importance of education and learning from the past. We are blessed that here in Canada, we have the freedom to fight with our words, and do not have to fear a war on our land. Not many countries can say that. The past paves the way to the present. It is for us to share the important lessons we have learned to the next generation to maintain the peace and freedom we have today.