In 1999, when I first sought the privilege to be an MLA, I believed that the future of our region was bright. As I reflect nearly three decades later, I can say with confidence that my belief has not changed, and it is thanks entirely to the incredible people who call the constituency of Springfield-Ritchot and southeast Manitoba home.

This is why I continue fighting for you, to ensure you and your families have access to the resources and opportunities needed to thrive in our communities. I am proud to share that the past few months have brought historic investments and significant developments to Springfield-Ritchot. Many of these projects first began taking shape under the previous Progressive Conservative government which I was honoured to serve in.

Late last year, $76.9 million in funding was secured for wastewater infrastructure, including $22 million towards the Red-Seine-Rat Wastewater Cooperative. This critical infrastructure will allow for continued urban and economic growth in our communities for years to come. It was a project I worked hard to advance both in government and now in opposition.

In Niverville, Manitoba’s fastest growing community, rapid growth has created a need for further investments in infrastructure. That is why $17.7 million has been allocated for much needed improvements to Main Street. With construction set to begin later this year, the project will see lanes doubled in Niverville’s west end and the construction of a new roundabout. These improvements will help ease congestion, while creating a clear path towards sustained growth. During my time as minister of transportation and infrastructure, I worked to ensure the needs of this fast-growing community were reflected in the province’s long-term infrastructure plans.

This past Tuesday, Manitoba celebrated its 156th birthday on what is officially known as Manitoba Day. While there are still many Manitobans who are unaware that May 12 is Manitoba Day, it is worth celebrating the anniversary of the day that our province officially entered the Confederation of Canada.

Every year the Mennonite Heritage Village celebrates Manitoba Day (as it does Canada Day), with free admission and an opening ceremony which invites attendees to reflect on the many things we have to be grateful for in our province and our country. This year, that celebration was held on the Saturday prior to Manitoba Day to ensure as many Manitobans as possible could attend.

One of the traditions that I enjoy the most at this event is the singing of the Manitoba Song, written in 1970 for the province’s centennial year. This year, as in most years past, Steinbach’s own Michelle Sawatzky performed the song for those in attendance. Few Manitobans know of the song’s existence let alone the lyrics, but they include the phrase “Manitoba, home of the blessed,” which feels true even on the coldest of winter days.

And while Manitoba is often mentioned for how cold our winters can be, what makes Manitoba special is how warm and friendly (it says so right on our licence plates), our people are. Whether you have lived in Manitoba your whole life or moved here from another province or country, I am sure you have a story to tell of the generous and kind spirit of your fellow Manitobans.

RCMP have arrested a 46-year-old man after the death of 49-year-old Cameron Huley in the RM of Ste Anne.

Jeff Wyness, (46) faces one charge of manslaughter and was released on conditions with a pending court date.

Police say their investigation determined there was a social gathering outside a residence.

“An altercation ensued amongst those present, which resulted in the victim receiving an injury that later caused his death in hospital,” police said in a press release.

Millions of Canadians like me have witnessed the nine twinkling lights appear on the horizon with white smoke in trail. We watched as the formation of nine red and white jets pitch up towards the sky and roll with incredible precision. We all felt the rumble watching in amazement at the discipline and cohesive teamwork and felt our national pride as the Snowbirds transformed the sky into their canvas.

For more than 50 years, 431 Air Demonstration Squadron also known as the Snowbirds has served with distinction within the Canadian Armed Forces, becoming one of the country’s most recognizable symbols of unity and pride. Conservative Member of Parliament Fraser Tolmie, who represents Moose Jaw, SK, home of the Snowbirds describes their impact simply: “The Snowbirds have an unmatched ‘wow’ factor”. Unlike many symbols of Canadian heritage, the Snowbirds do not sit behind glass in a museum or live only in history books. They are a living example of Canadian excellence, not a relic of the past, and they have an important job to do for the future.”

This summer—the summer of 2026—just might be the last time people experience that sensation of awe that inspires the young and old alike.

Several months ago, the team announced that they would not be accepting bookings for the summer of 2027, according to MP Tolmie—despite having a full slate of dates this summer. Since then, the Liberal government has signaled this could be a five-year pause for the Snowbirds.