This week in Portage la Prairie, stories of service, community spirit, and local growth are taking center stage. From Master Corporal Keith Johnson reflecting on 35 years of military dedication to the tribute honoring Dr. Patrick Rice’s legacy of care, here’s a look at the stories making headlines around town. Master Corporal on 35 years of service, and why Remembrance Day still matters Keith Johnson’s 35-year military career with the Royal Canadian Air Force took him from early training in the 1950s to maintaining aircraft across Canada and around the world. A Portage veteran, he served with dedication, including time with the famed Golden Centennaires aerobatic team, before retiring from flight safety work in Winnipeg. His story stands as a quiet reminder that true service is often found in steady, faithful work and the legacy it leaves behind. Click here to read the full article Rooted in kindness, Dr. Patrick Rice's legacy grows at the Portage Clinic Doctors, nurses, family, and friends gathered outside the Portage Clinic to honour the late Dr. Patrick Rice, a founding physician remembered for his kindness, mentorship, and decades of service to the community. A new tree and bench were dedicated in his memory, symbols of his enduring impact and love of nature. The tribute reflected not only his legacy of care but also his gentle reminder to others to slow down, take time, and live with compassion. Click here to read the full article McKay Avenue Park to be rebuilt with zip-line feature The City of Portage is set to begin construction on a new, nature-themed playground at McKay Avenue Park by the end of October, with completion expected in early November. The $150,000 renewal project was designed with input from Yellowquill School students and will feature a zip-line, one of their top requests. While the old equipment has been removed, the park’s well-loved bear-shaped bench by local artist Yvette Cuthbert will remain in place. Click here to read the full article Petro-Canada station marks economic boost for Long Plain First Nation Long Plain First Nation is expanding its economic footprint with a new Petro-Canada fuel station and travel centre under construction on its Keeshkeemaquah reserve lands near Portage la Prairie. The project, led by Arrowhead Development Corporation, builds on the success of Long Plain’s Madison Petro-Canada in Winnipeg and is expected to create local jobs while generating new revenue for the community. The development is part of a larger strategy to strengthen Indigenous-led business growth and long-term economic self-determination. Click here to read the full article Jeweler gives back with handmade bracelet donations across Portage Local artist Cindy Smith, creator of Creations by Cindy, is using her jewelry-making skills to give back by donating dozens of handmade bracelets to nine local organizations. Each one-of-a-kind piece is crafted from repurposed materials and meant to spread kindness and joy throughout the community. Smith continues to sell and showcase her creations locally, with proceeds and donations supporting meaningful causes close to home. Click here to read the full article Portage's newest McDonald’s location officially opens today Portage la Prairie’s downtown is seeing new life with the grand opening of a second McDonald’s restaurant on October 24. Owner Jason Ammar says the new location brings both convenience and job opportunities, especially for local youth, while showcasing the latest in McDonald’s technology and design. The project was completed quickly through strong collaboration and marks the company’s continued investment in the community. Click here to read the full article Portage welcomes first local infectious disease physician Dr. Zoe Muller has become Portage’s first locally based infectious disease physician, bringing over ten years of experience to improve access to specialized care. Her presence is expected to reduce wait times and limit the need for patients to travel to Winnipeg for treatment. Muller, who trained internationally and has worked across North America, will treat a wide range of infections while helping local physicians manage emerging health issues like the rise in measles cases. Click here to read the full article Highway Community Kitchen cracks open egg giveaway with 12,600 dozen from Second Harvest The Highway Community Kitchen in Portage la Prairie is partnering with Second Harvest to distribute about 12,600 dozen rescued Grade A eggs to local non-profits, schools, and community groups. The initiative aims to fight hunger and reduce food waste by redirecting surplus food to those in need. Local organizations are encouraged to contact the kitchen to help ensure all the eggs are shared and none go to waste. Click here to read the full article