I love to read month is the perfect opportunity to consider civic policy and animal welfare
As part of celebrating, I Love to Read Month this February, I had the joy of visiting students at Oakenwald School. Celebrating 100 days in the process! I read a story I wrote about Fort Rouge resident Kevin Toyne and his client Darwin, a Japanese snow monkey. You may know, long before he was Chair of the Winnipeg Humane Society, Fort Rouge Kevin represented Darwin.
The children showed their enthusiasm and concern about animal welfare and civic policy. Thank you to the grade 5 staff and students for welcoming me and quickly accepting the challenge of illustrating a book!
Neighbourhood Action Team Expands
Neighbourhood Action Teams were piloted in 2025. It is a promising initiative that Mayor Gillingham deserves credit for. This summer, a cross trained group of staff went in and acted tree and bush trimming, pothole and sidewalk asphaltic repair, righting crooked signs and more. Staff who work for the program are proud of the level of service and want to expand the cross-department model. The program expands into two week service blocks in each ward to four this summer.
Remembering Dr. Barry Lavallee
As a physician, Dr. Lavallee was devoted to supporting patients and families, and continually worked to improve indigenous healthcare in Manitoba. I am grateful to his friends at Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin for celebrating and honouring his life in a service for him on February 13th. A moving tribute to a physician whose work will continue to guide equitable and compassionate healthcare discussion for years to come. My condolences to his family & friends.