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Winnipeg Free Press
8 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Winnipeg Free Press
Plenty of room for the whole family
When a large family looks at what they desire most in a home, their first preference is always function. That's entirely understandable. After all, home is where they'll be spending the bulk of their time, activities and social commitments aside. TODD LEWYS / FREE PRESS A true jaw-dropper, the island kitchen at 7 Adara Alley in Aurora at North Point is equal parts style and function. Big, growing families or large multi-generational families need a space that fosters both family time and privacy. As much as families love each other, it's essential that everyone have their own space and time apart to maintain a harmonious atmosphere. The Malibu — a fabulous new two-storey, 1,881 sq. ft. plan conceived by Daytona Homes — was designed to provide king-sized families with the flexibility they need to live life to the fullest, says Alana Yaren, Daytona's sales manager. 'We worked very hard to design a home that has everything a big family is looking for,' she says. 'Of course, the home is very functional — that's something we put into every home we build, whether it be a townhome, attached single family home or a single-family home like this one.' That's not to say the need for style was overlooked; all you need to do is step into the Malibu's main living area and take a look at the island kitchen. TODD LEWYS / FREE PRESS Daytona's designers cleverly placed a handy prep kitchen and butler's pantry behind the smashing island kitchen at 7 Adara Alley. 'Right away, you notice the island and the countertops — they really stand out with all their beautiful grey highlights that pop on the off-white quartz,' says Yaren. 'We put up matching backsplashes to add an extra touch of class. There's also a fabulous prep kitchen with butler's pantry behind the kitchen that can be closed off by a pocket door.' To ensure the overall look isn't too busy, light taupe cabinets were installed along with stainless appliances to give the kitchen a modern feel. At the same time, natural looking, nicely textured wide-plank flooring was installed to add warmth and give the main living area a pleasing sense of cohesion. To that end, flow into the dining area from the kitchen is seamless, as it is into the adjacent great room, which features a quiet sense of refinement. 'Lots of natural light comes in from a large picture window on its rear wall, while the neutral colour scheme works really well with the flooring,' she says. 'There's plenty of room for people to sit around and visit, and the linear electric fireplace looks great with its colours, especially at night. It's just a very comfortable space.' The Malibu is one comfortable, well-organized home. TODD LEWYS / FREE PRESS A versatile space, the naturally bright second-floor bonus room can be used for a variety of purposes. And that uplifting, easy-living feel starts right when you walk in the front door, says Yaren. 'This home has four bedrooms, with one of them being placed conveniently on the main floor. A full bathroom was placed next to it, so if you have in-laws that want to come and live with you, you have a perfect in-law suite area for them.' She adds that the front of the house also offers another design feature that will appeal to large families. 'An additional entrance was put on the side of the home to provide direct access to the lower level. So, if you want to put in an in-law suite or rent out the basement, people can have their own private entryway to the home.' The Malibu's upper level is as functional as its main level. TODD LEWYS / FREE PRESS Spacious and spa-inspired, the ensuite is a luxurious, calming space. In total, it holds six spaces: three bedrooms, a laundry room, main bath and a good-sized bonus room. The latter, says Yaren, is 'a versatile space that can be used by the kids to play, watch TV or study in apart from the grown-ups. Or it can be used as an office. Basically, it can be anything a family needs it to be.' The bonus room also serves another purpose: it deftly separates the secondary bedrooms from the primary one. 'As a result, it's a very private, peaceful space. A large window on its rear wall lets in lots of natural light, there's a big walk-in closet, and the ensuite is a beautiful space with its walk-in shower, dual vanity and marble-style vinyl tile floor.' Yaren says large families will like the community as much as the home's smart design. TODD LEWYS / FREE PRESS The two-storey, 1,881 sq. ft. Malibu was designed expressly to cater to the needs of large or multi-generational families. 'There's a school being built, full transit service, and commercial services are coming. With its well- balanced design and great location, the Malibu is just what big families are looking for.' lewys@
Winnipeg Free Press
17 hours ago
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
Future of the underground concourse weighs on biz owners' minds
Amid the fanfare surrounding the reopening of Portage Avenue and Main Street to pedestrians, questions remain about the future of the underground concourse and the businesses in it. The Portage and Main Circus has many shops and restaurants and is connected to a larger underground network downtown. The concourse has a leaky membrane that no longer protects it from above ground moisture. The cost of repairing it is estimated at $73 million, said Mayor Scott Gillingham. MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS Haley Yurman, brand and marketing leader for Empty Cup, holds up a sign reminding people that the business still exists in the Circus. Speaking to reporters after opening the street-level crossing, he stressed a decision has not yet been made over whether the circus will remain open or be fully or partially closed. City officials are awaiting for engineering reports and consultations with business owners, he said. 'The underground concourse will not close anytime soon. We are still doing some work related to that,' Gillingham said. The mayor said reintroducing pedestrian traffic to the intersection will not have a negative impact on the businesses below ground. 'There's still winter months coming… I believe that people will still frequent businesses below grade.' Kate Fenske, CEO of Downtown Winnipeg BIZ, echoed that sentiment. 'They have their long-term customers, and (the underground) is still a critical piece of infrastructure that allows connectivity,' She said. 'We've actually heard from workers and property owners, the businesses there, that it is so important it stays open… and I think there are going to be options to look at that.' Haley Yurman, brand and marketing leader at Empty Cup, said she's not concerned. The Winnipeg-based coffee shop has a location in the underground concourse. 'It's good for business to have more people out and about downtown,' she said. Yurman and her colleagues joined a crowd celebrating the reopening of the intersection. They carried signs that read 'Still brewing one level down' in large, capital letters. Harveer Chahal and Murtaza Mehdi were among the customers who stopped by the coffee shop as the crowd gathered above. Both men work in a high-rise linked to the underground circus and shop at the stores multiple times a week. MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS Business owner Eric Chi said he expects little impact to his business because most of his customers come from the buildings and companies attached to the underground mall. 'We don't really go outside,' Chahal said. 'We get our food, coffee, A&W sometimes, or sushi. It's much safer here, I'd say, compared to outside.' Wednesdays Sent weekly from the heart of Turtle Island, an exploration of Indigenous voices, perspectives and experiences. Business owner Eric Chi said he expects little impact to his business because most of his customers come from the buildings and companies attached to the underground mall. Chi has sold sushi and snacks from his store, Eshel Tree, in the underground for more than one year. He signed a five-year contract with the city, and was told at the time there was no immediate plan to close the concourse. Since then, rumours and speculation have been swirling among business owners in the underground concourse, as they await news on whether the city plans to keep it open or shut it for good, he said. 'Of course it's concerning, but I just want to know as soon as possible so that I can take my next step,' he said. 'Whichever decision (the city) makes, I support it. I'm not against the decision, my only hope is they decide something for the better, for the community,' he said. Tyler SearleReporter Tyler Searle is a multimedia producer who writes for the Free Press's city desk. A graduate of Red River College Polytechnic's creative communications program, he wrote for the Stonewall Teulon Tribune, Selkirk Record and Express Weekly News before joining the paper in 2022. Read more about Tyler. Every piece of reporting Tyler produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the Free Press's tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about Free Press's history and mandate, and learn how our newsroom operates. Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
Winnipeg Free Press
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Winnipeg Free Press
What's open, what's closed, what's up in Winnipeg on Canada Day 2025
This Canada Day, the Free Press has you covered, whether you're looking to celebrate this country's Indigenous heritage, participate in some 'Elbows Up'-style patriotism, to have some fun in the sun or stay cool in the shade. The Free Press is not publishing a print or e-edition on July 1, but readers can visit our website for the latest news and information. Here's a roundup of hours of business for services and other things to do on Canada Day. JOHN WOODS / FREE PRESS FILES All across the country Canada Day parties will celebrate the country's 158th birthday with food, fun and, in many cases, fireworks. At The Forks, family-friendly festivities between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. include dance workshops and battles, skateboarding demonstrations, a basketball tournament and a fashion show, food trucks and a handmade market, cultural demonstrations and crafts, and live music. See a schedule on The Forks website. Princess Auto Stadium has live music on two stages, as well as an Indigenous handmade market, kids activities and food vendors. The event is free, but they ask attendees bring a non-perishable food item for Harvest Manitoba. No ticket is required to access the tailgate stage, open from noon to 5 p.m. Mainstage events starting at 5 p.m. — including headliner Big Wreck and a fireworks show at 10:30 p.m. — are also free, but require a ticket. More details, performance schedule and ticket information on the Blue Bombers website. Free Canada Day celebrations with live music, performances and family-friendly activities are being hosted at Princess Auto Stadium and The Forks. In eastern Winnipeg, Transcona BIZ is presenting a two-part Canada Day festival. In the afternoon (1-5 p.m.) check out the Canada Day Market at Transcona Centennial Square (135 Regent Ave. W.), featuring local makers such as BB Tallow Skincare Co., Urban Tails, Shrugging Doctor Beverage Co. and Bet Toba. There will be face painting, games and balloon animals for the kids and, while supplies last, free hot dogs. At 9:30 p.m., the gates will open at Buhler Recreation Park (135 Murdoch Rd.) for the fireworks — bring your blanket or lawn chair and enjoy. Similarly, in south Winnipeg, the River Park South Community Association is presenting a two-part Canada Day celebration of its own. Festivities kick off at Burland Park (150 Burland Ave.) from 4 to 8:30 p.m., with balloon artists, face painting, a craft market, live music and food trucks (including Wagyu Wagon, Engocha Ethiopian Food and the Big Dawg Smokies). The party moves to Highbury Park (99 Highbury Rd.) after dark for the fireworks, which kick off around 11 p.m. near the retention pond. Those living in north Winnipeg can start celebrating Canada Day early at Canada Fest at the Tyndall Park Community Centre (2255 King Edward St.) Sunday and Monday from 4 to 9 p.m. and from 3 to 11 p.m. on Canada Day proper. The event will feature food trucks and stalls at the Food Park (including Kyu Grill, Lobster Bae and Popoy's Golden Chicken), live spray paint art, free zumba classes, prizes and fireworks on Canada Day after dark. In the west end of the city, Assiniboine Park's Summer Entertainment Series continues with a range of Canada Day activities taking place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entertainment on the Lyric Stage includes Mama Cutsworth, Zrada and Neighbour Andy, while food trucks, a bouncy castle and pop-up patio will be set up in the Lyric Field. The outdoor garden at The Leaf will host a citizenship ceremony, salsa dance lessons, fire and tobacco teachings. (For those desperate to catch some fireworks in west Winnipeg, Assiniboia Downs will be lighting up the sky with pyrotechnics after dark.) For more Canada Day events in other communities in and around Winnipeg, check out our community calendar. An anti-Canada Day party is also planned at the Exchange Event Centre. See what's up. WHERE TO WATCH FIREWORKS In Winnipeg, July 1 fireworks displays are scheduled at Princess Auto Stadium and Assiniboia Downs. Some rural fireworks displays have been cancelled due to the threat of wildfires. Civic, provincial and federal offices are closed July 1. There is no mail delivery on Tuesday. Canada Post offices are closed, but post offices operated by the private sector will be open according to the hours of service of the host business. All city cemetery grounds are open 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. The administration office at Brookside cemetery will remain closed all day. Winnipeg Transit will operate on a Sunday schedule on July 1. The city will be adjusting to a new transit network, which launches Sunday. See our transit survival guide for tips on navigating the new system. Recycling and garbage will be collected as usual. The Brady Road landfill is open 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. The 4R Winnipeg depot at the Brady landfill will be open until 8 p.m. and the Pacific Winnipeg 4R depot is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Panet 4R depot is closed. Winnipeg Public Library branches will be closed. (Find your great next read in our Books section.) Arenas and leisure centres will be closed. City of Winnipeg indoor swimming pools will be closed July 1. All outdoor pools, including spray pads, will be open. Wading pools will begin opening on a staggered basis starting July 1. See more information on wading pool schedules here. Major movie theatres will be open. (Not sure what to see? Find news and reviews in our Movies section.) The Assiniboine Park Zoo and The Leaf will be will be open until 5 p.m. A full slate of Canada Day festivities is planned at Assiniboine Park from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. See the Canada Day schedule of events here. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is offering free admission July 1. See current exhibits and events. The Manitoba Children's Museum will be open 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Check out their featured events. The Manitoba Museum will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Upcoming events at the museum and planetarium. The Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Upcoming events. The Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq will be open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Current exhibitions. FortWhyte Alive is open every day of the year except Christmas Day. Calendar of events. The Crescent Drive, Harbour View, John Blumberg, Kildonan Park and Windsor Park golf courses will be open, weather permitting. Most larger chain grocery stores are open, but some may have reduced hours, so you might want to call ahead to check the hours at your preferred shop. CF Polo Park, Garden City Shopping Centre, Kildonan Place and Outlet Collection Winnipeg will be open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Grant Park Shopping Centre will be closed. Portage Place will be open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., but some tenants and areas of the mall may be closed because of the ongoing redevelopment of the mall. St. Vital Centre will be closed. The Forks Market will be open. Canada Day festivities will be held inside and outside at The Forks from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. See The Forks' Canada Day programming here. Most Liquor Mart stores in Winnipeg will be open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., except for the True North Square location, which will be closed. Check hours at your preferred store. Beer vendors and private wine stores set their own hours for holidays, so call ahead. webnews@
Winnipeg Free Press
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Winnipeg Free Press
All-Canadian mixtape: Manitoba radio personalities share their top picks for a patriotic soundtrack
Elbows up and headphones on. Canada Day falls on Tuesday and veteran radio personality Howard Mandshein doesn't mince words when he is asked how, in his expert opinion, music acts from the Great White North stack up against their international counterparts. 'I'm from a radio era when it was decided you had to — check that, you were forced to — play Canadian music,' says Mandshein, the longtime host of the Sunday Morning Resurrection, heard weekly on 92.1 CITI-FM. 'Excuse my language but f—- that. Canadian music has always been able to stand on its own two feet. It's as good as anything else heard around the world, if not better.' As for homegrown songs he enjoys most, sure he can come up with a few off the top of his head, but question him again tomorrow, he says, and those recommendations will probably be completely different. 'Any list of mine has to include Tom Cochrane, he's a god to me,' Mandshein states. 'If Brian Wilson wrote the California dream, Tom wrote the Canadian dream with songs like Good Times and Big League.' Mandshein also cites a little-heard soul band from Toronto called Mandala. 'They had a song Love-Itis. It was a cover, but it absolutely captured my heart when I was a kid.' Thirdly, Mandshein adores 'everything' about River, from Joni Mitchell's classic album Blue. 'The hypnotic music, the pictures she painted, her voice… I get a tear in my eye just thinking about it.' Now if you're debating what tunes to include on your personal July 1 playlist, you've come to the right place. Here's what other local radio types had to say in regard to their favourite Canadian tracks, each of which, we should point out, is 100 per cent tariff-free. RUTH BONNEVILLE / FREE PRESS Vicki Shae in studio at Country 99. RUTH BONNEVILLE / FREE PRESS The Girl — City and Colour (2008): This song is like a warm sweater, then it shifts into an Irish folk mode that's so joyful. These Eyes — Guess Who (1969): I could easily make all five of my selections Guess Who/Burton Cummings songs. They're all so catchy and melodically interesting. This piano riff is everything. Lost Together — Blue Rodeo (1992): It was hard not to pick a Blue Rodeo song with Jim Cuddy singing because I absolutely love his voice. But this song (with Greg Keelor on lead vocals) is so anthemic. AMBER BRACKEN / THE CANADIAN PRESS Blue Rodeo AMBER BRACKEN / THE CANADIAN PRESS Blue Rodeo Rosy and Grey — Lowest of the Low (1991): I don't even know how this song came onto my radar but ever since I first heard it, I've been charmed by it. It's earnest and cheeky. It's All Coming Back to Me Now — Céline Dion (1996): Céline Dion was my idol when I was a kid, so I had to include her. This song is so epic and booming and dramatic. Don't watch the video for it though. It's brutal. Supplied Phil Aubrey, left, and Joe Aiello of 92.1 CITI Supplied Phil Aubrey, left, and Joe Aiello of 92.1 CITI Under My Thumb — Streetheart (1979): After all these years, I still remember that night at the old Winnipeg Arena. It was my first concert and I will never forget seeing Kenny Shields holding his thumb up in the air and giving us an incredible version of the (Rolling) Stones' cover. Big League — Tom Cochrane and Red Rider (1988): The memory of Tom Cochrane and (guitarist) Ken Greer giving us an amazing acoustic version of this song in the 92.1 studios many years ago blew me away. Superstitious Feeling — Harlequin (1982): One of the first bands I had the pleasure of seeing live, I believe in 1982. To this day I love hearing (lead vocalist) George Belanger ripping through the lyrics with that raw and gritty voice. Just great. Wheat Kings — Tragically Hip (1992): I remember introducing them at Another Roadside Attraction, early on in my career. Hearing this great ballad just feels like Manitoba. JOE BRYKSA / FREE PRESS FILES The Tragically Hip JOE BRYKSA / FREE PRESS FILES The Tragically Hip All Uncovered — Watchmen (1994): I have loved this song since the day it was released, and I still love seeing them perform it live. Canadian Railroad Trilogy — Gordon Lightfoot (1967): It's like an epic poem in musical form. I also reckon it's a song before its time, as it doesn't just celebrate the evolution of our nation, but acknowledges this land was here 'long before the white man' settled what we now know as Canada. They called him a troubadour for a reason. Constant Craving — k.d. lang (1992): A beautifully produced song that, to my ears, still sounds as fresh today as when it was released. She has a voice like warm honey. I don't know if there's a better song about yearning. Try Again — Andy Shauf (2019): He's a great songwriter, with such a unique voice. This song is such a heady mix of bittersweet nostalgia, self-deprecating humour and melancholic self-awareness, both lyrically and musically. The clarinet makes it. MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS FILES William Prince MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS FILES William Prince Breathless — William Prince (2015): A man with a voice so warm and fuzzy it wraps you up like a cosy blanket. An incredible ambassador for Manitoba in Nashville and around the world. He was amazing live at the Winnipeg Folk Fest a few years back. Lovers in a Dangerous Time — Barenaked Ladies (1991): A Canadian band covering a Canadian songwriting legend, Bruce Cockburn; and one of the rare occasions where I genuinely believe the cover is better than the original. The line 'Got to kick at the darkness 'til it bleeds daylight' is so incredibly visceral — and a phrase that rings true now more than ever. Lunatic Fringe — Red Rider (1981): How fitting my favourite Canadian song comes from Lynn Lake's Tom Cochrane. My heart loves the guitar solo and the best way to listen to it is as loudly as possible. This song remains as relevant today as when it first was released. Nothin' at All — Maestro Fresh-Wes feat. George Banton (1991): A thank you to my partner Colin for educating me on all that is Maestro Fresh-Wes. Maestro is Canada through and through, from sampling Canadian artists in his songs to educating the country on injustice faced by Indigenous and Black Canadian communities on songs like Nothin' At All. JOHN WOODS / FREE PRESS FILES k.d. lang JOHN WOODS / FREE PRESS FILES k.d. lang Luck in My Eyes — k.d. lang (1989): Yes, Constant Craving and the entire Ingenue album are great, but Luck in My Eyes from Absolute Torch and Twang, is a nod to lang's country roots. I love her delivery, and it's so fun to sing. Confetti — Charlotte Cardin (2023): This song is very new. Charlotte's voice is sultry and at times it sounds as if she's singing her way through sticky maple syrup. She also switches seamlessly from English to French in her pop catalogue. It's a Good Life If You Don't Weaken — Tragically Hip (2002): I love many Hip songs but for this particular list I've chosen this one. It's beautiful, it's haunting. The call and answer 'find somewhere to go, go somewhere we're needed' hits hardest while listening to it in the early-morning hours. SUPPLIED Tom Cochrane SUPPLIED Tom Cochrane Life is a Highway — Tom Cochrane (1991): Mad Mad World was the first CD I ever purchased from Columbia House, and boy did I rock out to this song. Now my four-year-old son does the same thing with the Rascal Flatts version, thanks to the animated movie Cars. Wheat Kings — Tragically Hip (1992): Growing up in rural Manitoba, there was something special about Canada's biggest band at the time releasing a song about a massive story on the Prairies. That and I loved the Brandon Wheat Kings. Any Man of Mine — Shania Twain (1995): It's extremely difficult for a Canadian to break into the country-music world south of the border. Shania broke across every border in the world with this banger. If it's getting quiet on the dance floor at a social, all the DJ has to do is put this song on. FRED GREENSLADE / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES The Guess Who FRED GREENSLADE / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES The Guess Who No Sugar Tonight/New Mother Nature — Guess Who (1970): My high school science teacher was a massive fan of the Guess Who. At least once a week we'd walk into his class with this song on in the background. Lifted — Dallas Smith (2014): When Dallas Smith left Default and came over to the country world, this song off his first country album 'lifted' his name to the top of the Canadian country charts. He's been a massive presence on the Canadian country scene ever since, and has helped us host many charitable events in Winnipeg, so he'll always get a ton of love from me. Working Man — Rush (1974): Forget Canadian, this is one of the greatest rock songs ever created in any country. Cordelia — Tragically Hip (1991): The best song off the Hip's best album, Road Apples. Fight the Good Fight — Triumph (1981): Three of my top five could have been Triumph. Or the Hip. TREVOR HAGAN / FREE PRESS FILES The Headstones TREVOR HAGAN / FREE PRESS FILES The Headstones Three Angels — Headstones (1993): Seeing Hugh Dillon (lead vocalist) live is something everyone should experience. Rock You — Helix (1984): Don't judge me. Helix is an important part of growing up in Transcona. Grace, Too — The Tragically Hip (1994): The Tragically Hip must be represented and if I have to pick just one, it'd be Grace, Too. Gord's performance here takes you for such a ride. Such a dreamy little hook off the top as well, with the whole thing turned up to 11 by the time they wrap it up. Having an Average Weekend (Kids in the Hall theme) — Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet (1985): Every time I heard that bass line, I knew something bananas was about to happen. Constant Craving — k.d. lang (1992): Painful and pure and timeless. THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES Gordon Lightfoot THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES Gordon Lightfoot The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald — Gordon Lightfoot (1976): That moment in the third verse, right around the time the 'wave broke over the railing' and the steel guitar kicks in… Even if you aren't familiar with the story, you know at that moment no one is coming home. Gets me every time. The Rest of My Life — Sloan (2003): I played these folks on the radio a ton in the late '90s, and I loved every song. I named my daughter partly in honour of their awesomeness. This one has the edge for our purposes today, very simply for the reason it mentions the word Canada. Hasn't Hit Me Yet — Blue Rodeo (1993): Instead of changing the words to O Canada, they should've junked it entirely and substituted this song. Anyone who's ever been part of a crowd and sung along with it at the top of their lungs knows why. Who cares if it's just a song about getting dumped? I Pity the Country — Willie Dunn (1971): The only song on my list that's specifically about Canada and it's not too positive. But an ability to recognize one's own shortcomings and do something about it is a special kind of greatness itself. (Definitive cover: Leanne Betasamosake Simpson) I'm an Adult Now — the Pursuit of Happiness (1986): When I look back on my wasted life while recuperating from knee-replacement surgery, I'll still be playing air guitar to this one. Mercury — Kathleen Edwards (2002): There's only six lines in this song that captures a moment so pure and real. SIX lines. Have Not Been the Same — Slow (1985): The title of this song was used for the title of an encyclopedic history of Canadian rock music from 1985 to 1995 with good reason. It rocks. My Girl (Gone, Gone, Gone) — Chilliwack (1981): I played this song so much my parents would stand at the top of the stairs and yell 'gone, gone, gone!' That was my cue to turn it down. Turn Me Loose — Loverboy (1980): I loved their debut album and played it to death. Mike Reno's voice is/was amazing. Tonite Is a Wonderful Time to Fall in Love — April Wine (1975): The melodies were coupled perfectly with the vocals. Great song all the way around. Innocence — Harlequin (1980): I actually went to the record store in Brandon to meet and get autographs from the band after falling in love with this song and album (Love Crimes). Who would have known that years later (lead vocalist) George Belanger would become a great friend? One More Time — Streetheart (1982): The vocal prowess of Kenny Shields and anthemic sounds from the band equals a fantastic party tune. Today's Empires, Tomorrow's Ashes — Propagandhi (2001): The title track from my favourite Winnipeg band's third album is a brilliant reminder that our voice is the most powerful gift we have. Unrelenting riffs and intelligent lyrics that suggest we are doomed to keep repeating the same history if we don't pick up the mantle and start driving the change that we want to see. Which Way You Goin' Billy? — Poppy Family (1969): Everyone loves Ian and Sylvia (Tyson), but I'll take the melancholy pop from this group led by Terry and Susan Jacks every day of the week. This track is so sad and beautiful, I think everyone can relate to trying to move on from a love that's no longer shared. My Definition of a Boombastic Jazz Style — Dream Warriors (1991): Summer of 1991, the video for this was all over MuchMusic, which I was consuming with a daily vigour. With its classic Quincy Jones sample (Soul Bossa Nova) and the sly nod to the classic Canadian game show (Definition) whose theme shared that same hook, this track helped broaden my burgeoning love of hip hop and showed me there were some really talented rap cats north of the border. Coax Me — Sloan (1994): I remember the uproar when Chart magazine declared Twice Removed the greatest Canadian album of all time. The more time passes, the more I believe they weren't wrong. 'It's not the band I hate, it's their fans' is one of my favourite lyrics of all time, and it anchors this indisputable indie-rock anthem. HANDOUT / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES Weakerthans HANDOUT / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES Weakerthans Left & Leaving — Weakerthans (2000): I've lived in this city for the better part of my life, something I wear like a badge of honour, as many Winnipeggers do. The lyrics of this song paint the city in a stark, honest light and its poignancy hits on multiple levels. Some of us are here because we couldn't escape, some because we couldn't resist the pull to return, and then there are those who chose to stay, never wanting to leave in the first place. Theme from 'A Summer Place' — Percy Faith (1959): I was eight when this song topped the charts for weeks. To this day it always means summer to me… and I never even saw the movie. Mom and Dad controlled the radio back then. Born To Be Wild — Steppenwolf (1968): Long before Bryan Adams gave us a great driving song (we think he means Summer of '69), this was my go-to. Plus it's the song that gave us the term 'heavy metal.' These Eyes — the Guess Who (1969): Having grown up in East Kildonan near Chad Allan, I've always been a fan of theirs. It was so exciting when this song started making waves across North America in 1969. We were so proud they were from Winnipeg. Amy Harris / Invision / The Associated Press files Neil Young Amy Harris / Invision / The Associated Press files Neil Young Heart of Gold — Neil Young (1972): I could have picked so many of Neil's songs but this was one of the first records I ever played at my first job in radio, at CHTM in Thompson. I Just Wanna Stop — Gino Vanelli (1978): I was working in Montreal at the time. I was in love with both the city and a special lady. The lyrics say it all. All That I Know — Winnipeg's Most (2010): An absolute masterpiece. Danny's Song — Anne Murray (1972): I love Anne Murray so much. My dad graduated from the University of New Brunswick with her, which is my biggest claim to fame. Friction — The Lytics (2018): This song could have been made in any era and still been a banger. I'm With You — Avril Lavigne (2002): No apologies. Nathan Denette / The Canadian Press files Roll On Down the Highway — Bachman-Turner Overdrive (1974): I didn't grow up with BTO, so it's still kinda new to me. One of the greatest driving songs in history. David Sanderson Dave Sanderson was born in Regina but please, don't hold that against him. Read full biography Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
Winnipeg Free Press
2 days ago
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
Supporters of removing barriers at Portage and Main excited to take steps 46 years in the making
Brent Bellamy plans to be one of the first to cross Portage and Main — and he plans to do so in style. The Winnipeg intersection will open to pedestrian traffic Friday morning for the first time since 1979, and Bellamy will be wearing a custom T-shirt with results from the 2018 plebiscite in which 65 per cent of Winnipeggers voted to keep the streets closed. 'I'll be there first thing in the morning. I might cross back and forth all day, actually, just for fun,' Bellamy said Thursday. 'It's obviously long overdue.' The creative director for Number Ten Architectural Group and Free Press columnist has been one of many long-standing advocates for removing the concrete barricades that prevented Winnipeggers from crossing the intersection for nearly 50 years. MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS Brent Bellamy at Portage and Main the day before the crosswalks are going to become active, allowing people to cross the famous intersection, legally, for the first time since 1979. MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS Brent Bellamy at Portage and Main the day before the crosswalks are going to become active, allowing people to cross the famous intersection, legally, for the first time since 1979. 'At one time it was the centre of our city, and it was where people came together,' he said. 'The storefronts in every direction are empty, and the plazas are empty all the time. It's really just a place void of life.' With nearly 20,000 people living and working between the intersection, Bellamy believes people returning to the sidewalk will help bring a new energy and life to the downtown. 'I don't expect the world is going to change in one day, but I think there are lots of good things happening already.'–Brent Bellamy 'I don't expect the world is going to change in one day, but I think there are lots of good things happening already,' Bellamy said. 'Reintroducing Winnipeg's history back into our consciousness will be an important thing.' He hopes that will someday include the city revitalizing the area using art and sculptures to tell the story of Winnipeg's history. Adam Dooley, another prominent supporter for opening the intersection, said he's thrilled the city is correcting what he called a 45-year-old mistake. 'It's a time of hope and progress for how we're looking at how we should be building our cities,' said Dooley, who was a spokesperson for the Vote Open campaign prior to the 2018 plebiscite under then-mayor Brian Bowman. 'Cities need to be designed for people first and cars second.' At the time, Winnipeggers voted 'no' by nearly a 2-1 margin in the non-binding plebiscite. Dooley hopes the public takes pride in the change as he believes it will help people feel safer and help visitors better navigate the area. Mayor Scott Gillingham will do something Friday Winnipeggers haven't been able to do legally in 46 years — walk across Portage and Main. Gillingham, with Coun. Janice Lukes, chairwoman of the public works committee, and representatives from construction company MD Steele, will take the first steps following a brief ceremony planned for 10:30 a.m. Mayor Scott Gillingham will do something Friday Winnipeggers haven't been able to do legally in 46 years — walk across Portage and Main. Gillingham, with Coun. Janice Lukes, chairwoman of the public works committee, and representatives from construction company MD Steele, will take the first steps following a brief ceremony planned for 10:30 a.m. 'I simply plan to walk across the street, when the walk light tells me I can,' Gillingham said Wednesday. The mayor stressed patience with the intersection, which closed to pedestrians in 1979 as foot traffic was redirected to an underground concourse. 'I once again please ask motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to be patient,' he said. 'Slow down, slow down at all intersections, but certainly at Portage and Main. This is going to be an adjustment. For 46 years, pedestrians have not been permitted to cross that intersection. Now they will be permitted to cross that intersection. 'So, let's just have everybody be patient.' The opening will occur despite a 2018 citywide plebiscite where 65 per cent voted 'no' to opening the intersection. The mayor said the move will help revitalize the area. 'Opening Portage and Main to pedestrians is not going to save downtown, but it is one important piece of many pieces of investment that are happening simultaneously throughout the downtown.' Gillingham said a report on the underground concourse will come forward this fall. — Kevin Rollason He intends on celebrating the occasion by walking across the intersection with other Vote Open colleagues. Former mayor Glen Murray, another significant proponent of foot traffic at Portage and Main, applauded the move but said it won't change much. 'Opened or closed, the serious issue is how everything functions,' said Murray, who served on the Exchange District Business Improvement Zone for eight years. 'It's good news, but it has a marginal impact.' Murray said the open intersection won't change the city's ability to retain strong business development, which he said is affected by heavy, undisturbed crime and traffic congestion caused by poor street planning. 'Every time I go back to the city for a couple of months, I just go for a long walk through the city or go on my bike, and I'm always sad to see what's going on downtown,' he said. 'We're just not seeming to get it.' Murray, who has residences in Winnipeg and Toronto, said Portage and Main needs to be restructured so it is cohesive for everyone. He believes parks, residential developments, businesses, and pedestrians should be spotted every three blocks within either direction of the two streets. 'This moves us in the direction we need to go, which is a downtown that invites people to the heart of the city that makes it an exciting place to go.'–Loren Remillard Loren Remillard, president and CEO of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, expects more people to be engaged with downtown once the blockades are permanently axed. 'This moves us in the direction we need to go, which is a downtown that invites people to the heart of the city that makes it an exciting place to go. People walking and milling around downtown who don't normally come for activities will start to build more momentum that we need.' Remillard knows crossing an intersection is not the be-all and end-all or the cure to what ails downtown, but he said it is a key ingredient to becoming a people-centred area. 'It's been a long time coming, and we're hoping it will create a vibrant atmosphere with people walking, engaging in events, and activities downtown,' he said. Remillard said members from the Chamber will be crossing the street Friday and working with partners and businesses to celebrate a historic Winnipeg moment.
