We wish you a
Merry Christmas
May your holiday season be full of warmth and joy, and your 2026 full of peace and prosperity
Crossroads This week
Happy Holidays, from our family to yours Ryan Nesbitt • Michelle Gensiorek • Darrell Nesbitt • Connie Kay • Racheal Flintoft • Donald Berger Dennis Basso • Ena Lee • Arthur Bresnahan
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FROM THE LEGISLATURE:
W ish es for th e sea son
The holiday season is a time when families come together and citizens take a pause from the day to day hustle and bustle of life to remember all the good things we share as citizens of the Riding Mountain constituency in the Province of Manitoba, in the most wonderful country in the world – Canada. The tradition of community involvement is alive and well in our province. Theatre groups, 4-H clubs, seniors’ organizations, service clubs and sports teams are just a few of the opportunities rural residents have and benefit from. Volunteers are the heart of our communities and the
Greg
Nesbitt UN D ER T H E D OM E strength of our province, and I am very honoured to say the constituency I represent in the Manitoba Legislature is
rich with people with such commitment. However, as we celebrate the festive season we need to take time to consider those who have struggled over the past year – whether it was through the loss of a job, the loss of a loved one, wildfires, droughts, floods or tragedies around the world. I am proud to represent you in the Manitoba Legislature and pledge to continue working for a stronger Manitoba moving forward. I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and healthy and prosperous 2026. Greg Nesbitt MLA Riding Mountain
WE ASKED STUDENTS:
W h a t a re you excited to do on Ch ristm a s va ca tion? Following submissions were received from the Miniota Grade 1 class. All schools within the area were invited to be part of this edition.
M IN IO T A Hangout with my family. Cooper Brown
Spending time with family and sleeping over at grandma’s house. Piper Brown
Getting presents and spending time with my family. Jacob Cymbalisty
For Santa to come and to make snow fonts and snow men. Layker Gardham
Go to my cabin and make snow forts and snowmen. Shay Gardham
To play in the snow with my sisters. Amy Gurr
For Santa to come and to make snow forts and snowmen. Samantha Hill
Wishing You Every Happiness This Holiday Season
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THIS HOLIDAY, ARRIVE ALIVE! DON’T DRINK & DRIVE!
To go skating, to go to my grandmas and spending time with my family. Brae McKean
For my grandma Susan to come over. James Oliver
To go skating and to see my family. Jemma Sheane
To get presents. Kyler Thomson
For Santa to come and to hangout with my family. Jayden Williston
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As we get revved up for another holiday season we’re hoping yours runs smoothly all the way. It’s been a pleasure serving you this past year.
Crossroads
Friday, December 19, 2025
This week
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The Christmas you can’t buy By RAC HEAL FLIN TO FT
I have been thinking lately about the difference between the Christmas we see in commercials and the Christmas I find myself searching for instead. If you look around right now, everything is loud. The lights are flashing, the flyers are full of must-have sales and there is this heavy pressure to make everything have that Christmas glow. We are told that if we just buy the right gift, cook the perfect turkey, or decorate the house to look like a magazine, we will finally feel that holiday magic. I admit, I look at the glimmer of the lights and the mountain of presents sometimes, and it feels so far away from what we all truly need… It sure isn’t another “thing” to fill our closets, overflowing with last year’s important and forgettable “must-haves.” The commercialism feels far away from the peace I’m
looking for. And honestly, sometimes the pressure to create that “perfect” day just makes me feel tired. But then I remember… the first Christmas didn’t have any glimmer at all. A humble beginning – it is easy to forget that the “reason for the season” started in the dark and the cold. It started with a young family who had nothing but trust. There were no string lights in Bethlehem. There was no perfectly set table, no tree piled high with gifts, and certainly no comfortable bed. There wasn’t even a room at the inn. The true story of Christmas – the birthday of Jesus – is actually a story about stripping everything away. God didn’t choose a palace for His entrance. He didn’t choose a moment of wealth or comfort. He chose a dusty stable. He chose the smell of hay and animals. He chose a feed-
ing trough for a crib. It was messy, it was humble, and it was entirely unpolished. As the bridge between then and now, that simple, dusty reality is where I find my comfort this year. If the Son of God was content to enter the world in a barn, why do we feel such pressure to make everything flawless? Why do we feel the need to have the best of the best material things just to make the day count? If the very first Christmas was quiet, humble, and a little bit unpredictable, why do we feel like failures if our holiday isn’t extravagant? The stable reminds us that we don’t need to be perfect to be close to God or to be living
out a purposeful Christmas season. We don’t need the expensive decor or the extravagant budget to celebrate the birth of Jesus. In fact, all that noise often just gets in the way. The miracle didn’t happen because of the decorations; the miracle was that God came to be with us, right in the middle of the mess. So, this year, I am giving myself permission to look past the “stuff.” Of course, there will still be gifts under the tree. I will still be wrapping presents for the people I love, and we will certainly keep our favourite family traditions alive. But I am making a conscious choice to keep those things in their proper place.
Cro ssro a d s This W e e k
I want to enjoy the giving without getting lost in the spending. I want to enjoy the company of friends and family without worrying if the meal is five-star quality. Most of all, I want to take a moment to be grateful for that baby in the manger. He reminds us that love doesn’t have to be fancy to be real. He reminds us that the most important things in life –
hope, peace, and salvation – are gifts that cannot be bought in a store. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the rush of the season, maybe it’s time to turn off the twinkling lights for a minute, sit in the quiet, and remember that the greatest gift ever given didn’t even cost a penny. Have a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!
Merry Christmas! As we reflect on the year gone by, we recall with pride, the many old and new friends we’ve had the privilege to serve, and we wish you all a holiday filled with much joy and serenity. Your friendship has made this a wonderful year for us and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Balan Gravelling Inc. Rob, Adrienne & family Olha, MB
Hi-Way Collision Hamiota
Wherever we go this holiday season We know folks like you are the reason That we’ll look forward to returning here To see you all again next year! May the coming season bring peace, joy and harmony for you and your loved ones.
Thank you for your kindness and business this past year.
Lakeside Auto Body Corey & Steph Nychuk & Family Danielle, Roberta, Raymond Rainy, Stormy, Mr. Kitty, Stubby, Jakai & Boo Shoal Lake, MB
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This week
May you enjoy the beauty and splendor of this special time of year with loved ones and friends, and please accept our best wishes and gratitude for your loyal and continued support.
Shoal Lake • Wes & Staff
Jaxon in Birtle would like to see Santa pullup w ith a red C orvette for his D ad this year
WE ASKED STUDENTS:
W hat d o you think Santa should b ring your M om & Dad ? The following submissions were received from the Birtle and Miniota Grade 2 classes. All schools within the area were asked to be part of this edition. Some schools opted not to share students’ last names.
BIR T L E I would like Santa to bring my Mom new mittens because she lost her old mittens. I would like Santa to bring my Dad a new hockey stick because he is very good at hockey. Tayve
I would like Santa to bring my Mom a black shrit because she can look very nice in the summer. I would like Santa to bring my Mom a new frying pan because her other ones are very old. Cora-Lee
I would like Santa to bring my Mom new diamond earrings because she will love them. I would like Santa to bring my Dad a new Hondae because he would like to ride it. Max
I would like Santa to bring my Mom a new dodge suv because she can drop me off at school. I would like Santa to bring my Dad a new Gmc truck because if his old car broke he could use the truck. Reid
I would like Santa to bring my Mom new hand soap because she is running out of it. I would llke Santa to bring
my dad a new Holland cab tractor when he is snow plowing and he turns the snow gets in his face. Tripp
I would like Santa to bring my Mom a new dress for going to weddings because she likes to look pretty. I would like Santa to bring my Dad hand lotion because his hands are dry. Quinn
I would like Santa to bring my Mom new workout gear because she needs a new MCHS. I would like Santa to bring a new Holland quad track because he needs a grain cart tractor. Hudson
I would like Santa to bring my Mom help with the baby because she is always doing the work. I would like Santa to bring my Dad a ps5 because he was asking since the middle of November. Riley
I would like Santa to bring my Mom gold earrings because my Mom likes gold. I would like Santa to bring my Dad a PS2 because my Dad doesn’t have one. Theo
I would like Santa to bring my Mom flowers because she loves flowers. I would like Santa to bring my Dad skates because he always does stuff with us. Octavia
I would like Santa to bring
my Mom a teal dress because my Mom needs more dresses. I would like Santa to bring my Dad a new Ram truck because is other trucks don’t really work. Rece
I would like Santa to bring my Mom a red stocking because she does not have one. I would like Santa to bring my Dad a tool box because he is going to build our deck next year. Oakley
I would like Santa to bring my Mom a vase because she can put flowers in it. I would like Santa to bring my dad socks because his other socks have holes in them. Linke
I would like Santa to bring my Mom a new shower curtain because she does not like the one that is there right now. I would like Santa to bring my Dad a New Holland dual tractor because we need more tractors on our farm. Colt
I would like Santa to bring my Mom a new computer because she needs one more to do more stuff on it. I would like Santa to bring my Dad new underwear because needs a lot more. Hanes
I would like Santa to bring my Mom lots of fake nails because she will wear them to a wedding. I would like Santa to bring my Dad a Corvette I would like it to be red be-
cause my Dad and I like Corvettes. Jaxon
M IN IO T A Bring my mom Harry Potter games, my dad more time on the ice in goalie equipment, and my step dad more time off from work. Potter Campbell
Bring my dad a day off work and my mom a coupon that makes my sisters and I do the dishes. Emery Gardham
With thanks to all of you for providing a bright spot in our year.
to say “thank you” to all our supporters. We wish you all a very merry and bright Christmas holiday and look forward to seeing you again soon.
Merry Christmas Everyone! Marion & Ryan Koltusky
Ga ry & N a dine Slim m on
Olha General Store
Hamiota
May you enjoy this Christmas Season and all the best for 2026.
Bring my mom a massage chair and my dad a day off. Scarlett King
Barry, Tracy,Will & Kevin • (204) 764-2844
Bring my mom some new hair ties and my dad a squish mellow from the Wizard of Oz. Ava-Joy Lelond
Bring my mom and dad chocolate cookies. Lawson Maluga
Bring my mom and dad pliers. Willen Priestly
Bring my mom a ticket a Toronto game and my dad a spot on an NHL team. Easton Salt
Bring my mom a new iPhone and my dad a new gun for hunting. Kael Sheane
Bring my dad an apple watch and my mom a pair of glasses. Francis Stonehouse
W hyte ’s L u m b e r L td. Craig, Marianne, Roy, Daniel, Kayleigh, Nathaniel, Blair, Gavin, Rosie
Kenton
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How Christmas finally made sense to me By D O N ALD BERGER
There was a time – embarrassingly, if I’m honest – when Christmas felt like an endurance race. Not a festive celebration. It was an unholy gruelling marathon designed to wring wallets and that still punishes my body till this day. If you grew up when I did, you’ll remember the soundtrack: blaring TV jingles competing with Christmas music from the huge stereo cabinet, the promise of happiness came from Eaton’s or Simpson’s catalogues, delivered in shrink-wrapped plastic boxes, batteries not included. Fruitcake – a toxic weapon deceitfully disguised as a treat. Toys? Marketed as “new and improved” but designed to disintegrate, falling apart in your hands, in minutes after opening the giftwrapping. Christmas lights? One bulb blew, the whole string died, and we were gifted a masterclass in seasonal profanity. Me and four rowdy siblings would wake before dawn, before our parents, every Christmas day and somehow transform into silent little ninja-bandit-pirates targeting the Christmas loot – creeping toward the tree with the stealth of a special-ops unit fuelled by what would now be considered a medically alarming overdose of sugar-laden goodies. That this was what Christmas was for me. As a child, no pressure, just playtime. Slightly chaotic, full of anticipation– and the best part of winter. Then life – and decades of long, sweaty chef hours carried me around the world. I saw people who don’t usually celebrate Christmas embrace it in their own unique way. In China and Vietnam, the hotel lobbies, cafés, and on streets were lined with the very decorations that were made in the local factories for export and shipped to us here. No one debated theology. Christmas arrived not as a sermon but as colour, music, food I often helped introduce, and pure spectacle. People didn’t worry about being on Santa’s list; they were just happy with the ornaments, revelling in red-and-gold decor as if it were a centuriesold Asian tradition of auspicious gilding – which, by the way, it actually is. And I wonder if that’s why the
Cro ssro a d s This W e e k
doesn’t need to be monetized, merchandised, or showy. It doesn’t need to match or compete. It doesn’t even need snow. It just needs family!
SAL AT CR AZY
Salat Crazy Christmas Tree
A M anitoba–Vietnam –Italy holiday fusion you can m ake in 10 m inutes Ingredients •4–6 Fresh tomatoes •1 container fresh bocconcini or mozzarella, sliced •Fresh sweet basil leaves •Extra Virgin Olive oil •Balsamic reduction or balsamic glaze •Salt & fresh cracked pepper •1 small piece of baguette (for the “tree trunk”) Serve immediately (Pairs beautifully with holiday chaos, laughter, and turkey pho simmering on the stove)
whole swirl of Christmas colour felt so natural there: Had the West just borrowed its festive palette from the spirituality of the Orient?
A CH E F ’S CH R IST M AS Before I ever figured out how I wanted Christmas to feel, I spent decades cooking everyone else’s Christmas for them. If you’ve never worked the hospitality trenches in December, picture this: weeks of prep, hundreds of hacked-up turkeys being deadlifted into giant rotatingshelf ovens like we were training for some Schwarzenegger-sanctioned industrial weightlifting event... potato mountains so high your hands prune into wrinkled little claws... stuffing mixed in vats the size of walk-in hot tubs... and the mechanical dishwasher blasting steam like an offended dragon, groaning under peak season and transforming the kitchen into a sauna that soaked us in sweat so thoroughly that even the free cornstarch – the cook’s last desperate hope – couldn’t save us. While the world was at home on the chesterfield
watching holiday movies, I was in a kitchen that felt like the inside of a malfunctioning volcano – timers screaming, ovens radiating enough heat to thaw Siberia, and us cooks being slow-roasted along with the turkeys. Sleep wasn’t a nightly ritual anymore; it became a disbelieved rumour passed around. And here’s the twist: I still loved it. Because every plate, every buffet, every banquet meant someone out there was having a smoother, happier holiday because we were willingly working ours. So here’s a genuine Christmas shout-out – to the fellow cooks, servers, cleaners, health-care workers, police, military, first responders, hotel staff, grocery workers, gas station attendants, and the people who keep the lights on (literally). Some of you are peeling potatoes, some of you are resetting circuit breakers, some of you are delivering the goods that keep everyone else merry. May your shift be smooth, may your feet forgive you, and may you enjoy your favourite holiday meal, hopefully fresh and hot at some point. And yes – I feel for you,
and the community thanks you for your sacrifices.
O U R CH R IST M AS,R E BU IL T Fast-forward to today, in Manitoba, where Christmas for me has finally settled into what feels like a genuine homecoming – not to a place, but to a feeling. A mix of the old and the new. A bit Canadian, a bit Vietnamese, a bit global, a bit improvised, and proudly family centered. We have an artificial tree because it’s easier, cheaper, cleaner, and the thought of killing a living tree bothers me. The ornaments are homemade. The lights don’t explode the moment I plug them in – a Christmas miracle courtesy of modern LEDs. Dinner isn’t turkey with stuff-
ing. It’s turkey ph·ªü, a tradition we invented because my son loves noodles more than anything and nothing says family love like boiling bones for hours until the whole house smells like endorphins. It took decades to understand a simple truth: Christmas
And then there’s the dish no one expects: Years ago, while catering in Vietnam, it was just one of my menu items rebuilt for the holidays because of the colours and flavour, an Italian salad that added pizzazz to the banquet appetizer table: Insalata Caprese, which was a tonguetwister for some of our guests, who enthusiastically called it ‘Salat Crazy’ – the Vietnamese version I secretly like the sound of better than the Italian name. Today I make the same dish in Manitoba, except with tomatoes grown right here all year round in Dauphin by Vermillion Growers and picked vine ripe – proof that prairie agriculture can outshine anything trucked in from the south. I slice the tomatoes, layer them with basil and fresh bocconcini cheese, and shape them into a Christmas tree. A crouton star goes on top. A piece of toasted crusty baguette forms the trunk. My son flicks off the basil leaves (hates green things), my wife laughs, and I watch the two of them thinking: how lucky I am.
Merry Christmas Wishing you a Happy Holiday season from the team at Enns Brothers, Shoal Lake.
BAR K LIN G CLEAN D O G GR O O M IN G 204-365-0808 • Shoal Lake, MB
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To Our Friends & Neighbours At The Holidays This greeting is filled with a healthy measure of best wishes and gratitude. We look forward to serving you in the coming year.
BIRTLE PHARMACY Alison and Steve Desjardins & Staff
Season’s Greetings
O ther than the obvious ofopening gifts,localyouth like their fam ily traditions ofplaying gam es o r watching C hristm as m ovies
WE ASKED STUDENTS:
As we prepare to enjoy the magic of the festive season, let us first be thankful for the many blessings we enjoy in our community, province, and country. With the tragedies we witness throughout the world, we are fortunate to be able to gather with family and friends without the fear or threat of harm. May you remain healthy, happy, and safe, not only now but throughout the new year. Have a very Merry Christmas from the R.M. of Yellowhead Council and staff. – Mayor Merv Starzyk
W hat are your fam ily’s Christm as trad itions? The following submissions were received from the Shoal Lake, Rossburn and Strathclair Grade 2 classes. All schools within the area were invited to be part of this edition.
SH O AL L AK E At Christmas, my family opens presents on Christmas morning. Marvey Buletin
At Christmas, my family opens our stockings first, and then we open our presents. Gavin Chwaluk
At Christmas, my family wears matching pajamas. I have a sleepover at my grandma’s house. I open my presents at my grandma’s house. Willow Eastcott
At Christmas, my family opens presents. We also watch a movie together. We eat all together as a family. We all have fun together sooo much. We have a good time. Celine Escuadra
At Christmas, my family dances in the Drop-in. We play tag and sneak in the dark. We eat food and play the floor is lava. We play next to the door. We play the chair game. We play bring me. We have fun. Marcus Juban
At Christmas, my family has a tree elf. We have two big Christmas trees. Jessie Longclaws
At Christmas, my family dances at the Drop-in in the dark! We play tag, and I play under the table. I roll balls on the table. We play games. We play floor is lava. We play beside the door. Kervin Mangmang
At Christmas, my family waits for my family, and we open presents with my family. Kyler Ostash
At Christmas, my family all open presents as a nice, calm family, and it’s nice. Elizabeth Ritchie
At Christmas, my family opens presents. I go to my grandma’s home and open presents with her and my papa. Beau Findlay
At Christmas, my family opens presents together. I run around and light the tree. We look for Buddy the Elf. Lenny Rogasky
At Christmas, my family opens stockings first. We open the rest of my presents when my mom wakes up. Connor Glenn
At Christmas, my family decorates for Christmas just before Christmas. Lenard Santiaguel
At Christmas, my family opens gifts on Christmas
morning. Claudia Susinski
At Christmas, my mom wraps a big box and me and my brother Griffin open it on the night before Christmas. Maverick Szklaruk
dition is we take turns opening presents. Amelia Drul
ST R AT H CL AIR Editor’s note: No names were included due to having some kids in CFS care.
At Christmas, we go to my Baba’s for Christmas. Jaxson Workman
My family’s Christmas tradition is to open presents on Christmas morning!
R O SSBU R N
My family Christmas tradition is that we have a big Christmas dinner at our house and play some games. Ynora Yucot
My family Christmas tradition is that we go to Baba’s house and eat a big Christmas dinner and then open presents together. Rylee Saley
My family Christmas tradition is that we open our presents together. Exander Wuttunee
My family Christmas tradition is that we go to our Baba’s house to have a big brunch and then we open presents. Lucas Kiez
My family Christmas tradition is we go to our Grandma’s house for Christmas Day and open presents there, then we go home and open presents at our house. Ensley Brandon-Cloud
My family Christmas tra-
My family’s Christmas tradition is going to Grandma’s house. We spend Christmas with family and friends!
My family’s Christmas tradition is to set up our Christmas tree! We also like to put the fireplace on the Tv when we open presents!
My family’s Christmas tradition is boxing (wrestling) and opening presents. My mom also makes Christmas cookies!
My family’s Christmas tradition is when we go to Grandma’s house at Christmas time. Then, after Christmas, we go see more family. We open presents one by one in a circle and see what other people get!
My family’s Christmas tradition is when we open presents at Baba’s and my house. I like to watch other people open their presents! We also send presents to our family overseas.
Thank you to all the surrounding communities for your continued support.
Merry Christmas
and Happy N ew Year!
Old School Catering Bruce Manuliak • Oakburn, MB
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Friday, December 19, 2025
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D ARRELL N ES BITT Cro ssro a d s This W e e k
Receiving the news of your first grandchild is a life changing experience that grandparents embrace and cherish, for time goes by far too quickly. For wife Cindy and myself, the first was a boy named Axel, who was a tad lazy when he was a baby, opting to sit while his Pa got the toy he so wanted, instead of crawling to it. Today, at the age of 11, he has become a kind, caring pre-teenager who has a passion for video games, walking the family’s dog, and showing his love for siblings with friends. Experiencing a child’s first Christmas brings not only fond memories, but also rekindles long lost family traditions. Creating new ones and brings the family back closer together. Grandchild #2 is Kash, a 9year-old autistic child, who has a passion for books, trinkets, and an array of fresh fruit including strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and bananas relaying “Oh So Monkey” when more are needed. Despite his diagnosis, this healthy boy enjoys visits to
Sophia Zara Ren,a bundle ofjoy his Pa and Nanny’s home in Shoal Lake, especially when the words of ice cream, cake and presents are shared. Knowing full well when birthdays fall, he knows cake, cake and more cake is served, and
W ishing yo u a nd yo urs the ve ry b e st this ho lid a y se a so n.
often taken home. Thanks to great assistants at the Brookdale School, Kash has advanced in schooling very well, despite not talking much, but for sure expressing himself through drawings. The latest
shared by email by his mom, our daughter, Shelby on “Wednesday, Dec. 10, was one of the story, ‘The Turtle and the Rabbit’ – a classic fable about a race between a fast but overconfident rabbit and a slow but persistent turtle, spotted in a “I Spy” book. With the rabbit taking a nap during the race, confident it will win, the turtle, through slow and steady effort, crosses the finish line first. The moral of the story is that perseverance and consistency can overcome arrogance and complacency, teaching that “slow and steady wins the race”. Alike dealing with a child with autism. Our first granddaughter Olivia turned 7 years old last month. For the past few years her enjoyment has been anything “Barbie”. Despite being offered hundreds of dollars for an antique doll house purchased by her loving Pa at a Brandon thrift store for a mere $10, she and her mom, have opted to keep it. Why not? It folds, has two levels, and casts a true feel of owning or renting a home. For the past four months, Barbie has been pushed aside, for a real breathing doll known as Sophia Zara Ren, born on her
M erry Chris tm a s
grandparents’ anniversary date of Aug. 20, completely without knowledge of an expected arrival. You see our daughter had a cryptic pregnancy. A pregnancy when you don’t know you’re pregnant. It can happen if you have irregular periods or get a negative result on a pregnancy test. The Cleveland Clinic shares it’s even possible not to realize one is pregnant until labor begins, which was Shelby’s case. And what did the first granddaughter ask for her birthday – nothing more than a baby doll, so she could cherish, cuddle, and coo with her very own baby, while her mom focused on Sophia. Experiencing a special moment when the real baby needed changing on our living room floor, instincts of the much younger mother kicked in, unsnapping buttons, removing the clothing, and washing the private parts of her wee one. At first the older siblings were shocked as much as Pa and Nanny, however, a Christmas shopping spree in the early part of December, was so much fun. Finding gifts for the older crowd in a family isn’t that simple, but ideas for a new young granddaughter,
growing fast and changing with each picture received, made the task not only simplified but better yet, relaxing. Sophia’s favourites are brother Axel and sister Olivia, with Kash learning what a baby is all about. With the birth, Kash’s response was “Baby! Baby don’t run” and three months passed before he asked his mom if he could hold her. With sparkles in his eyes, as Sophia held his finger, the expressive moment will never be erased from my mind or from our photo collection. So Christmas 2025 will bring excitement to no end, as paper from gifts unwrapped is piled high, as two boys and two girls, watch with merriment. The younger girl may be a few months off from opening her own gifts, hut special, loving and caring hands will paint the picture of happiness with one rip at a time. The arrival of Sophia – a wonderful early bundle of holiday warmth – have and will continue to make our family days be merry, create a holly Jolly Christmas, and countless happy memories wrapped around laughter and love. God bless!
Merry Christmas
Best wishes and thanks from all of us!
PRAIRIE NH3 PARTS & TRUCK REPAIR Tel:204-773-3854 | w w w.keatingseed.ca
Season’s Greetings We are grateful for your business and friendship. Wishing you and your family health, happiness, and prosperity in 2026.
Highw a y #16 W est,Ru ssell,M B
Wishing you all a very happy holiday season and all the best in the New Year.
May Peace, Joy, Hope and Happiness be yours during this Holiday Season and throughout the New Year.
Barry, Lynda & Melanie
Holiday Hours: Wednesday, December 24th - Closed at 3PM Thursday, December 25th - Closed Friday, December 26th - Closed Wednesday, December 31st - Closed at 3PM Thursday, January 1st - Closed
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Friday, December 19, 2025
Crossroads This week
Compared to many in the world, we have much to be thankful for.
We are blessed. We wish you the warmth of the season, from all of us at Beautiful
CHRISTMAS ARRANGEMENTS available at our flower shop
RAE’S FUNERAL SERVICE & FLOWERS Shoal Lake 204 759 2160 Erickson 204 636 7727 Flower Shop 204 759 2555
www.raesfs.ca
Merry Christmas! FUN INFLATABLES
DAR R E L L N E SBIT T / CR O SSR O ADS T H IS W E E K
From 4 to 6 to 10+ feet high, blow-up decorations create an easier time of setting up a fun holiday scene with a cast of characters including Santa in a number of elements readily available for purchase. These three Christmas inflatables can be found in front of a Shoal Lake home on 7th Avenue on the eastern side of town. While not hunting for penguins, Santa can be found powering his sleigh from a John Deere perspective versus reindeer led by Rudolph. Ho, Ho, Ho, Merry Christmas.
M erry C hr istm as Thank you to our amazing customers for entrusting us with your health. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Healthy New Year. From The Team at Hedley’s Health Hut
In the brightest of seasons, may you find many reasons for happiness. Happy holidays to all of our members and families, and cheers to an even better year to come!
1314 R ichm o n d Ave n u e Bra n do n ,M B R 7 A 1M 8
Western Manitoba Branch
204.7 25.3131 • H e a lthH u tBra n do n .ca
westernmanitoba@federalretirees.ca
Season’s Greetings From our family to yours...
Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is
PIZZA
MERRY CHRISTMAS from the Management & Staff&ofStaff of from the Management
T he RRussell u s s e ll InInn n The T he JoJolly lly L oLodger dge r | Sto n e H a uHaus s The | Stone RRussell u s s e ll InInn n E SSO / C-Sto re C-Store RRussell u s s e ll SuSubway b w a y | T|imTim H o Hortons rto n s Sta g + R a ve n Sp a
Merry Christmas Wishing you and yours the happiness of the season.
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Crossroads
Friday, December 19, 2025
This week
9-B
WE ASKED STUDENTS:
W hat would you like to give your M om & Dad ? The following submissions were received from the Decker Grade 2 class.
like to give my mom a little stick house because my mom likes crafts. I would like to give my dad a new heater because my dad is cold. I would like to give my mom money because she needs money. I would like to give my dad some money because my dad needs more money. Elijah Frazer
DE CK E R I would like to give my dad a big piece of loin. He likes loin because he is the butcher man. I would like to give my mom sunglasses and a phone case because she wants some. Denzel Waldner
I would like to give my dad a measuring tape because he wants a new one. I would like to give my dad a hairbrush because he doesn’t have one. I would like to give my mom a hug because she always gives me one at Christmas when I unwrap my presents. I would like to give my mom a good guess before I unwrap my presents. Zachariah Waldner
I want to give my dad a knife because he needs a knife, and I would give my mom a brush and a Christmas tree. I want to give my mom a dress. I love my mom. I would give my dad a green combine. I want to give my mom a golden cup. I want to give my dad a box screen. Joshua Waldner
I want to give my mom a surprise at Christmas by cleaning our house because our house is almost never clean. I want to give my dad a new shirt because it would be nice to see a new shirt on him and I’d like to make our whole family’s wedding
It’s a tale as old as tim e,Elijah in D ecker would like to see D ad get som e socks (w ith no holes) fo r C hristm as clothes so that my mom does not need to do so much work. Leila Waldner
I am giving my mom a hairbrush because her hair-
brush is broken. I would like to give my mom a toothbrush, but she has one. I would give my dad shades. I need to give my dad a few caps because he needs more. Justin Waldner
I would like to give my dad socks because he likes good socks with no holes. I would like to give my mom a Leaf hat because my mom likes beautiful things. I
would like to give my dad power tools. I would like to give my mom a cake because my mom gives me a cake on my birthday. I would like to give my dad steak because he makes it a lot. I would
I would like to give my dad 300 chocolate bars because it’s his favourite thing in the world. I would like to give my mom a water bottle because hers is lost and I would like to give them a big fat hug. Sara Waldner
We’d like to give you our thanks and best wishes for a holiday trimmed with lots of good times and good cheer. For the friendship and support you’ve given us, we are sincerely grateful. Happy Holidays!
Pa rtn e rs Audra Nychuk, CPA, CA Tiffany Bodnariuk, CPA, CA Ian McMullan, CPA, CA Brett Fordyce, CPA, CGA Kyle Paul, CPA, CA Harold Reid, CPA, CA Retiring December 2025
Everything is possible when you have the support of good friends! Thank you for being ours. Have a wonderful holiday.
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Sho a l L a ke O ffice
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Lisa Hogg Dana Stokes Melissa Wilson
Alexandra Belanger Nicole Danks Sydni Belinski, CPA Candidate Kendal Dube Christopher Bertram, CPA Candidate Y o rkto n O ffice Shaylon Cockerill, CPA R u s s e ll O ffice Nathan Bewcyk Katie Cowper Travis Greiner, CPA Candidate Donna Castro Lovelia Elizalde, CPA, CGA Fjola Johnson Nicole Danks Sarah Ford, CPA Alanna Olson Kendal Dube Mackenzie Ganter Ruchir Patel April Gurr Jolene Hodgins, CPA Candidate Kelsey Rapp, CPA Candidate Regine Isip, CPA Candidate Nick Kopeechuk, CPA Yash Shukla Chloe Mercer Halana McCulloch Jenna Mushumanski, CPA Candidate Nicole Paul, CPA All o ffice s w ill b e Sherri Polding Tracey Peel CLOSED Samantha Rawlings-Koroway Dawn Robson fro m De c.22,2025 Melody Retotal Christine Rodrigo, CPA, CGA to Ja n .2,2026 Shelley Richards Evangeline Soriano R e -o p e n in g Ja n .5 Vicki Woodhouse Hiral Vaghela, CPA Candidate a t 8:00 a .m . Mindy Wu, B.B.A, CPA
sensus
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10-B
Crossroads
Friday, December 19, 2025
This week
FUELLING YOUR TRIP HOME
Happy Holidays From
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Gift from the Heart By GLO RIA FLEU RY
My late mom Eva, told myself Gloria this story a very long time ago. I was just a wee tot, so of course I do not remember the eventful time. I’m thinking this happened in 1942.
T H E O L D GR E E N SW E AT E R IN M Y M O M ’S W O R DS “It was just an old green sweater, hanging on a hook behind the door. It had holes in the elbows and all the buttons had disappeared. It was lunch hour, so I grabbed that old green sweater, went out on the doorstep to wave your dad in. During our noon break we talked and accepted the fact that we would not be able to get to town for supplies. Your dad went back out to his barn chores. I sat quietly with my tea and wondered what kind of present I could give your dad on Christmas morning. What to do! Suddenly a thought came to mind. I jumped up and grabbed the old green sweater. The wool on the back part of the sweater was still strong and fine. Oh yes! I carefully unraveled it, sponge washed it, and wrapped the wool around the back of a chair to dry. When I knew your dad was coming in the house, I would hide it by covering it with a folded tablecloth. So, when your dad was choring or hauling hay, straw or wood, I was knitting. I had no pattern but I used my imagination and extreme carefulness and knitted every
chance I had until I would hear the sound of the horse’s harness, and I knew your dad was back home. I would then hide my knitting. The Holy Day was fast approaching, so I hurried. I also had much baking on the go. On Christmas morning I found a bit of coloured paper and a sort piece of green ribbon. I carefully wrapped it and placed it beside your dad’s breakfast plate. When
your dad came in from the choring, there was his Christmas surprise. Oh yes! Surprised he was, for he didn’t expect a gift. I must say, that old green sweater did the trick. It was a God send!”
I (Gloria) often wondered, if my late dad (Robbie) ever missed the old green sweater that hung on a hook, behind the door. For that was the
very place he hung his new green wool choker for “many a year” thereafter. From my mom’s giving heart, for thought of love, and for the sake of precious memories, “Merry Christmas”.
Gloria (Gardner) Fleury calls Uno home, and is the long time Beulah news correspondent for Crossroads This Week.
Wishing you and yours a dose of good cheer and a large measure of happiness this holiday season. We’re proud to care for people like you, and thank you for your trust in us. K yle ,H e a the r,Chris tin e ,M ira n da ,E n n i,T ra cy,She rri, Che rie ,T e lyn a ,Gra cie ,De b b ie ,K a te y,Q u in n ,An ika
H AM IO T A SUP ER T H R IF T Y P H AR M ACY
H appy H olidays!
With best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season from all of us.
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R.M. of Oakview
[LF , ? ~ [ [LF , ? ~ ‘Tis the season to celebrate good friends and neighbors like you. Your trust means everything to us. Thanks!
For all of your personal and business accounting needs.
204 764 2544 | 888 726 1995 | www.allianceaccounting.ca Hamiota • Birtle • Brandon Killarney • Deloraine • Pilot Mound
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Crossroads This week
Friday, December 19, 2025
11-B
Christmas
in Room 214 A short story by D O N N A S IM ARD Christina watched snowflakes drift softly from the sky, turning the world outside the hospital window into a quiet winter postcard. Normally, snowfall during the Christmas season filled her with joy, but this year, joy felt far away. Instead, she felt fear, uncertainty, and the hollow ache of not knowing what came next. She turned toward her eight-year-old daughter, Bella, lying in the hospital bed with IV lines and monitors gently beeping beside her. Bella was small for her age, with big blue eyes that always seemed to shine a little brighter in December. Her light brown hair was usually tied in a loose braid that rested over her shoulder, and even in a hospital gown she carried her own soft sparkle. She found magic in the simplest things, and Christmas was her favourite season of all. Only two days earlier, everything had felt normal. Too normal, Christina realized now. Bella had complained about being tired, rubbing her chest between songs as they decorated the Christmas tree. Later she grew pale, shaky. Christina had brushed her hair back, thinking it was the start of a flu, until her daughter collapsed. The memory surged: Bella hitting the floor, Christina screaming her name, fumbling for the phone, the 911 operator’s voice, the sirens wailing through the cold night. It had all happened so fast. Christina had a gentle, steady presence, the kind that made people feel safe without her trying. Her dark hair was usually pulled back, though a few strands always slipped loose, no matter how often she tucked them behind her ear. There was a natural, understated beauty about her, but worry now rested under her eyes. Still, she held herself with quiet
strength, determined to keep Bella’s world from falling apart. “Mommy, are you here?” “Yes, darling, I’m right here.” “Will we be home for Christmas?” Christina squeezed her daughter’s hand. “I don’t know.” Christmas was only a week away. “We have to be home for Christmas,” Bella insisted. The words pierced Christina’s heart. She smoothed Bella’s hair back, whispering a silent prayer she wasn’t sure how to form. A soft knock broke the moment. “Hello,” the doctor said, stepping in. “How is our patient doing today?” “I want to be home for Christmas,” Bella said. He smiled kindly. “Let’s talk more after you rest. I need to speak with your mother for a moment.” Christina followed him into the hallway lined with paper snowflakes taped to the walls by the pediatric nurses. He lowered his voice. “Your daughter needs open-heart surgery,” he said softly. “She has a congenital hole between the chambers of her heart, something she was likely born with. These openings can stay small and unnoticed for years, and then the heart suddenly begins struggling to keep up. That’s what happened to Bella.” Christina felt the room tilt for a moment, the kind of dizziness that comes when life shifts in a single sentence. Her hand pressed against the wall as she steadied herself. “When will the surgery take place?” she whispered. “Right after Christmas. She’ll need to remain in the hospital until then to be monitored.” Back in the room, Christina said gently, “We will be here for Christmas.” Bella burst into tears. “This will be the worst Christmas ever.” Christina held her tightly,
and as she did, a quiet idea began forming, fragile at first, then brighter. With approval from the nurses, she returned to Bella. “Sweetheart, you’re not the only one who has to be here for Christmas. There are many children on this floor. What if we planned a Christmas surprise for them?” Bella’s blue eyes brightened. “I could make homemade cards for everyone.” They began planning. Christina pushed Bella down the hallway in a wheelchair, counting patients. Bella waved at each child and parent they passed. At home, Randy and the boys, Sean, Alex, and Marco, eagerly joined in. They bought gifts and delivered them to the hospital. Since Bella’s surgery was scheduled for right after Christmas, the hospital decided to hold their Christmas celebration early, so the children facing surgery or long recoveries wouldn’t miss out on the magic of the season. A few days later, once the gifts were wrapped, the cards
were finished, and excitement had quietly spread through the pediatric floor, the nurses prepared a room for the celebration. At 1 o’clock that afternoon, soft string lights glowed along the walls. A small tree stood in the corner, decorated with ornaments the nurses dug out of storage. The sweet smell of hot chocolate drifted through the room, warming the otherwise sterile space. Patients, parents, nurses, and staff slowly gathered. Randy welcomed everyone and sat with Christina and Bella at the front. As he read the Christmas story, Bella held up the pictures so everyone could see. As he reached the part where Mary laid Jesus in the manger, Bella’s eyes softened. She whispered, “He wasn’t home for Christmas either, Mommy.” The words hit Christina’s heart with a quiet, holy weight. She squeezed Bella’s hand. “No, sweetheart,” she said softly. “But He was exactly where He needed to be.” Bella leaned her head on
her mother’s shoulder. The room felt warmer somehow, gentler and softer, as if something sacred had settled in the air. Christina looked around. Some children were hooked to machines; others wrapped in blankets. Yet, despite the fear and the unknowns, she saw genuine smiles. And beneath everything, she felt it… hope. Christmas, she realized, wasn’t about being home. It wasn’t even about the date on the calendar. It was about the love in that room, the light people gave each other, the way joy found them anyway. When the story ended, the boys burst in wearing goofy elf costumes and handed out gifts. Bella giggled, a sound Christina had been aching to hear.
Bella leaned into her mother. “Mommy… this feels like Christmas.” “Happy Birthday Jesus.” Christina kissed her forehead. “It is, sweetheart. Christmas always finds us.” ••• Christmas doesn’t always look the way we expect. Sometimes it arrives in a hospital room, in borrowed chairs, in the sound of children laughing through fear. May hope, peace, unexpected joy and love find their way to you this season, just as they found their way into Room 214. Merry Christmas!
Author Donna Simard enjoys writing stories from the comfort of her St. Lazare home.
a n d H a p p y H o lida ys - from the McConnell 4-H Beef Club A s p e cia l tha n k yo u to o u r 2025 s te e r b u ye rs No matter where you spend your holiday, we hope it’s a classic. Thanks for making this a very good year for us.
Hamiota • Shoal Lake • Kenton
Longhorn Oilfield Services Colby Taylor HTA Charolais Poplar Park Farms Oak River Quick Freeze 45 Networks 566 Ag Ventures Ltd.
Stuart & Adam McConnell Woodworth Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Eddy’s Septic Service Mazergroup Chappell Ag Solutions Inc. The Meat Man
12-B
Crossroads
Friday, December 19, 2025
This week
WE ASKED STUDENTS:
May the spirit of Christmas bring you
Peace
W hat are your fam ily’s Christm as trad itions? The following submissions were received from the Binscarth Grade 2 class. All schools within the area were invited to be part of this edition.
BIN SCAR T H My brother and I wake up really early on Christmas morning and we have to wait for our Mom and Dad to wake up before we can open any presents. When they wake up, we look under the tree to find our presents and open them. In the afternoon, we go to our cousins to open more presents and spend the night. The next day, we go to the farm and have a meal together. For the rest of the holidays we watch Christmas movies and play with our new presents. Bo Bradshaw
I wake up on Christmas morning early before anyone else, but I have to wait for my family to wake up before I can open any presents. I go look under the tree for my presents and if I find my sister’s I give it to her to get it out of the way from under the tree. After the presents are opened we eat a little snack and then go to my Grandma’s for a meal. We go play for a little bit and then we open more presents. For the rest of the holidays, we might have a sleep over at my other Grandma’s or hang out with friends. Sawyer Judd
On Christmas morning, my brother and I wake up first. We wait for Mom and Dad to wake up to open the presents. We have a special bag that Santa puts our presents from him in and we open that first. Then, we open our special stocking that my Great-Grandma made for us. Mom passes out our other presents to open. After all the presents are opened, we get ready to go to my Grandma and Grandpa’s to spend the day with them and all my cousins are there too. We all open more presents and have a meal all together. My cousins and I play with our new toys and then we go home for the night. For the rest of the holidays we spend time going ski-dooing to the cabin, going to the ski hill and playing with our new toys. Adalynn Dreilich
Before Christmas I set up my Christmas tree and my elf, Eve comes. On Christmas morning, my sister and I wake up first and we have to wait for my Mom, my Dad
and my brother to wake up before we can open any presents. While we wait we do a colouring contest or read together. When we open presents, my Mom and Dad pass out the presents and we open the littlest one first. My Grandma and Grandpa and my Aunty and Uncle come over and then we finish opening the presents and we eat together. We play with our new toys and then when we are finished playing we watch a Christmas movie, eat popcorn and candy. For the rest of the holidays we might go somewhere or just play with our new toys. Aubrey Falloon
On Christmas morning, we look for our presents under the tree and open them. We eat eggs and toast for breakfast. We spend time with family eating together. Boden McNair
Over the Christmas holidays, my brother and my sister and I play in the snow. We watch tv, then eat muffins and chocolate and have popcorn. I like to play Pass the ball and make snowmen. Jenil Amin
Grandma and Grandpa have a sleep over on Christmas Eve. We wake up and wait for other family members to come over. Mom, Dad, Grandma and Grandpa prepare brunch. Once they all arrive then we eat as a whole family and after brunch we open our presents. We go and get all our gifts and then open the smallest ones first to the biggest ones. We go ski-dooing and sledding for the day. When we get back, we have Christmas dinner, watch a movie until we are tired and then go to bed. Parker Cook
Our family wakes up on Christmas morning and opens presents. My little sister opens first. We eat breakfast. I go to my Uncle and Aunty’s house to open more presents. We stay for a bit and then we go home. We have Christmas supper with just us. For the rest of the holidays we play with our new toys and spend time at home. Ikarius Woodhouse
Before Christmas we decorate our tree. We have a Christmas topper that was passed on from generation to generation and my Dad puts it on the top of our tree every year. On Christmas Eve my sister and I get to open two presents each. We have family sleep over at our house on Christmas Eve. The adults wake up first and then the kids. Mom passes out the presents to open. We have a big breakfast of pancakes and then finish opening the presents. We spend the rest of the day playing with our new toys. For the rest of the holidays we just relax. Sadie Stadnyk
On Christmas holidays, we go to my Grandma’s. On Christmas morning we have fun and we open lots of presents. We watch a Christmas movie and then we eat a big supper. For the rest of the holidays we visit more family and play with our new toys. Nora Martineau
On Christmas morning my brother and I wake up and run downstairs to see our presents under the
Christmas tree. We get to open some of our presents without waiting for our Mom and Dad to wake up. We eat waffles and whipped cream for breakfast. After breakfast, we go tobogganing and have some friends over. When my cousins and my Grandpa and my Aunty come for Christmas dinner we open the rest of the presents, it is fun having everyone together. For the rest of the holidays we spend a lot of time with friends and family to celebrate Christmas. Nadia Douglas-Billy
The gladness of Christmas give you
Hope
The warmth of Christmas grant you
Love
Campbell Flowers & Gifts Campbell Funeral Home & Monuments Dwayne & Staff • Hamiota
On Christmas Eve, we eat dinner as a family and we go to sleep. On Christmas morning, my sister and I wake up first and we have to wait for our Mom and Dad before we open presents. My mom and Dad pass them out and then we open them. We eat breakfast and then go to my Baba’s or Granny’s. We play with our cousins and open more presents and Christmas dinner together. For the rest of the holidays, we just play with our new toys and hang out at home. Jayden Olynyk
On Christmas morning, my Mom and Dad wake us up to go to the tree. I have to feed my dog before we get to open presents. Mom passes out the presents and we open them. We eat breakfast and we wait for my Grandpa to come to our house and our cousins will come too. We play together and have a family Christmas supper. For the rest of the holidays we stay at home and relax. Penelope Ayotte
Merry Christmas
This holiday season is the time to say a huge “THANK YOU” to our valued customers and friends… for your patronage these past 34 years. Your trust and loyalty in us is much appreciated, as we strive to provide you with auto service and products.
Warm wishes for a Blessed Christmas
H ere’s hop in g everythin g run s sm oothly for you this holida y sea son . W e a p p recia te you choosin g us a n d tha n k you for your con tin ued busin ess.
Rossburn Farm & Auto Darrell & Myra
204-773-3420
On Christmas Eve our Dad opens his birthday presents and we like to watch a Christmas movie together. On Christmas morning, my brother or I wake up first. We wait for our Mom and Dad to wake up and we do chores together. After chores, we have pancakes and then we get our presents from under the tree and open them. Our cousins come over and then we go to our Grandma and Grandpa’s house to open more presents. We spend the whole day there playing together and we have supper there. For the rest of the holidays we hang out at home and take down the tree and look for all the decorations to put in the box. Adalie Bridgeman
Here’s hoping your holiday contains all the trimmings that make Christmas such a special time of year. With thanks for your valued and continued business from all of us to all of you.
SIMS & COMPANY Shoal Lake Norm Melissa Susan Gloria
Birtle Brian Amanda Kim • Jade Melissa • Keri-Lyn
Russell Brian Lisa Maria Heather
Russell
Crossroads
Friday, December 19, 2025
This week
13-B
Som etim es the old school cla ssics a re rea lly a ll you n eed to help p utyou in the m ood to celebra te the sea son By D ARRELL N ES BITT As a music lover including Christmas tunes, the songs listened to growing up in my parents’ home are still all time favourites. Classic merrymakers never grow old they just keep spinning on record players, cassette decks, cd players, and new routes of technology. If you love the holidays like I do, you know there are some ingredients you’re going to want to sprinkle in to the season to help ensure its success including old school Christmas songs. Because whether you’re hosting a holiday happening, wrapping presents, or baking up some sweet treats, a soundtrack of Yuletide sing-along staples makes everything that much more festive! Browsing the list on a Country Living site, #1 spot is filled by “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” by Mariah Carey. It’s hard to believe, but this massive hit – the best-selling Christmas single ever by a female artist – is now more than three decades old. It’s absolutely inescapable during the holiday season, so love it or hate it, you’d be better off just going with it.
“Blue Christmas” by Elvis Presley holds down the #2 spot. It would be a blue Christmas for real if you went without hearing this holiday staple at least a couple of times in December! Although it was first recorded in 1948 and covered by Ernest Tubbs a year later, it’s The King’s 1957 version that has stood the test of time. Holiday rock anthem, “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee is found in the #3 spot. Originally recorded in 1958, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2019. In 2023, after Brenda released a video for it, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the very first time, 65 years after its release. Although “Last Christmas” by Wham was found in front of “Do They Know It’s Christmas” by Band Aid, my outlook would see these switched. There’s no denying the impact this legit cultural phenomenon had on the world in 1984. Organized by Irish musician Bob Geldof, “Do They Know It’s Christmas” raised more than $28 million to feed famine-
ravaged Ethiopians. A who’s who of the decade’s biggest music stars contributed their talents to the effort, including Bono, Boy George, and George Michael, whose “Last Christmas” was kept from the top of the charts by it. The sixth best Christmas song goes to “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby, which the area sure does have now thanks to the heavy snowfall and strong winds received on Dec. 9 into the 10th. Featured in Bing’s hit 1942 movie, Holiday Inn (and again in the sequel, White Christmas, in 1954), this ultra-smooth smash is the best-selling single of all time. From the jingling sleigh bells to Clarence Clemons’ hearty “Ho Ho Ho” (which got The Boss himself giggling), the 1975 live version of “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band is pure holiday joy. It held down the seventh spot. One below is “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams. Williams loved him some holiday songs – after all, he wasn’t nicknamed “Mr. Christmas” for nothing. But he’s proba-
Season’s Greetings
Cro ssro a d s This W e e k
bly best known for this jaunty rundown of seasonal fun, which was released in 1963, on his first Christmas album. This #9 classic is 55 years old, recorded in 1970, by a musical juggernaut named Michael Jackson and his brothers known as The Jackson 5. “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” is a charming hit about a little boy who spies on his mom laying a smooch on Santa. Rounding out the top 10, the expression of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” is shared. Go ahead, try to get through Judy Garland’s delicate, achingly tender rendition of this sentimental song without shedding a tear. We couldn’t. (It was written for and first performed in Judy’s 1944 film, Meet Me in St. Louis.) Citing music offers numerous benefits for mental, emotional, and physical health, including stress reduction, mood improvement, and enhanced cognitive func-
tion, it’s a gift we can give all to ourselves as the quietness or loudness of Christmas fes-
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
tivities are celebrated. Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!
This note is trimmed with best wishes, and our gratitude too, plus a string of glad tidings to each one of you! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
McNeill Harasymchuk McConnell Law Office Glen Harasymchuk Anique Badiou Jessica Humphries
Russell, MB in fo @ a rt-fa rm .ca
204-7 7 3-237 7
Season’s Greetings As we reflect on the year gone by, we recall with pride, the many old and new friends we’ve had the privilege to serve, and we wish you all a holiday filled with much joy and serenity. Your friendship has made this a wonderful year for us and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
ELITE LIGHTING
Ashley & Sandra Mackedenski and family ROSSBURN
204-748-1220 mhmlaw.ca
14-B
Crossroads
Friday, December 19, 2025
This week
H ow to m a ke Ch ristm a s Eve extra sp ecia l for your ch ildren You’ve been counting down all December long, but the wait is finally over! Christmas Eve is finally here, and with this much-anticipated night comes a chance to (hopefully) rest and relax in the company of loved ones. While you may have spent the 24 days prior working your way down your Christmas bucket list, Christmas Eve is a night to take things easy. Still, you may be searching for ways to make meaningful memories this holiday, and that’s where our handy list of the best Christmas Eve traditions comes in. In the market for Christmas Eve traditions to enjoy with the whole family? However you choose to celebrate Dec. 24, know there’s more than one way to do it right. As long as the Christmas Eve traditions you make your own feel special to you and the people you love, a good time will be had by all! Here are some ideas to impart more magic into Christmas Eve celebrations…
BAK E F R E SH CO O K IE S Children like to leave out a plate of cookies and a glass of milk for Santa. That makes Christmas Eve a perfect time to whip up a fresh batch of cookies. Explore different recipes to come up with a unique offering each year.
Hanging from a door, a wall or mantel, wreaths are a mainstay of our Canadian Christmas traditions, but do we stop to think of the history of wreaths or how they came to be one of our most celebrated decorations? The history of the wreath reaches back many thousands of years ago. All the way back to ancient Greece and Rome where they would create coronas (also known as wreaths). Using fruits, flowers, leaves and other items, coronas would be
We’d like to join jolly old Saint Nick in sending warm wishes to you and your loved ones this holiday season. We appreciate your goodwill and trust in us, and thank you for your business.
Merry Christmas! Eddy, Shauna, Bailey, Madison & Jesse Szwaluk
Eddy’s Septic Service Ltd. Shoal Lake, MB
R E AD A CH R IST M AS ST O R Y Watching television or looking at a tablet or mobile phone before bed can be too stimulating when it’s time for children to wind down for bed. Choose a holiday tale or tales that can be read as a Christmas Eve bedtime story. Reciting the poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas (‘Twas the Night Before Christmas)” is a great way to set the Christmas Eve mood.
M AK E R E IN DE E R DU ST Why should Santa’s reindeer be left out when it comes to receiving treats? Reindeer dust, made from a combination of oatmeal, rice cereal, dried fruits, and glitter (if desired), is purported to attract Santa’s reindeer and provide them a nibble at the same time. Plus, it’s generally safe for other animals in the yard to eat.
GO CAR O L L IN G Carolling may not be the norm these days, but some families may want to revive it. Close-knit communities can organize family-centric carolling opportunities and roam the cul-de-sacs and other pedestrian friendly areas singing popular songs. Christmas Eve is a great time to em-
proudly displayed on the outsides of residents’ doors as a symbol of victory. Through the years Christmas wreaths brought new meaning to an old idea, they were originally used as tree ornaments. Given their shape, it made them easy to hang from the branches. Using evergreen tree materials from trimmings of the Christmas tree brought into the home for the season, the greens were formed into a circular shape, as a symbol of hope, power and resilience.
Wishing you this
Christmas
brace various traditions that help to make the season even more special.
DO N A CH R IST M AS SW E AT E R Have your family put on their favorite outlandish tops and throw an ugly Christmas sweater theme night. At the end of the night, have everyone anonymously vote for the best (and by best, we mean worst) sweater and hand out candy prizes. Extra points to anyone who creates a DIY ugly Christmas sweater.
SAN T A’S AR R IVAL If your children want to know when they can expect their Christmas presents, you can log onto sites like NORAD that follow Santa’s every step on Christmas Eve. Just make sure your kids are in bed when he approaches your area!
Adding a candle to the small tree ornament wreath was a symbol many Europeans used to emulate the light they believed Jesus brought into the world. Through the emigration of people from their countries
This little gre e ting is fille d with b e stwishe s a nd gra titud e , to o Fo rit justwo uld n’tb e Christm a s witho utgo o d frie nd s like yo u!
Mayor, Council & Staff
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Mayor, Council & Staff of the
Rossburn Municipality
origin, many new traditions were brought to North America, including the tradition of the Christmas wreath. Today, Christmas wreaths come in a variety of materials, colour, and sizes.
With best wishes and gratitude from all of us to all of you.
R OSSBUR N T H R IF T SH O P
M a y yo u r ho lida y de live r a ll the gifts tha t re a lly co u n t p e a ce ,lo ve , frie n ds hip a n d jo y.
F o r the gift o f yo u r lo ya l,n e ve r-e n din g frie n ds hip a n d b u s in e s s ,w e a re tru ly gra te fu l.
ROSSBURN HOME HARDWARE Dennis & Beth Oliver and Family
It’s time to deliver our message of goodwill and gratitude to the many kind folks who we have hauled for this year. Have a very merry season!
Management & Staff
Rick & Lorraine Snow
Birtle, MB
We appreciate your choosing us and thank you for your continued business.
CR E AT E A CAR E PACK AGE A care package is a great way to remind loved ones and people in need that you’re thinking of them during the holidays. Or, you could put a care package together for soldiers overseas. You can also send these out after Christmas so that they’ll be received as a New Year’s gift to extend the holiday wishes.
will bring so much fun and happiness to you.
Snow Trenching & Gravel
Here’s hoping everything runs smoothly for you this holiday season.
Parrish & Heimbecker, Limited GLOSSOP
W.E. Bicknell Ltd. Birtle, MB
Crossroads
Friday, December 19, 2025
This week
15-B
Sarah B.in Birtle m ight have the right idea ofspending her C hristm as vacation in the D om inican Republic
WE ASKED STUDENTS:
W hat are you excited to d o on Christm as vacation? Following submissions were received from the Birtle and Decker Grade 1 classes. All schools within the area were invited to be part of this edition. Some schools opted not to share students’ last names.
BIR T L E Open presents, going to the hall and playing a game called backroom. Sara B.
Sledding, and ski-dooing. Going with friends to ski-doo. Beau B.
Going to the Dominican and hopefully to Mexico. Sarah B.
sents and chocolates with my family, playing outside and building snowmen. Alice G.
Sing songs, put up the Christmas tree, decorate the house, have a Christmas pajama party with my friends. Sophie G.
Spending time with my family, opening presents and going ski-dooing. Everley G.
Getting presents, going sledding, baking cookies and watching the Grinch with my sisters. Emma O.
Play games like tag and freeze tag and ski-dooing. Zenon D.
Playing with my friends, decorating the house, sledding and skiing. Sophia H.
Bake cookies, eat cookies and milk, play hockey with my family, and play with friends at their house. Hux F.
Playing with my new Christmas toys, opening pre-
Spend time with my family, open presents with my family, and go sledding. Calder F.
Opening presents, going outside and playing in the snow, going sledding, GTing and ski-dooing. Riley L.
Playing hockey, decorating for Christmas and playing outside. Olivia G.
Open presents, play hockey, go sliding and skiing. Charlie C.
Playing in the snow, building snowmen, doing catwalks on the sled, and sledding with friends and family. Nixon M.
Spending time with my family, checking cows with my Dad and playing with my sister. Rhett H.
family, playing outside and sledding. Grayson L.
Open my presents, play with my cousins, play outside, and sledding. Sullivan K.
Making gingerbread houses with my family, playing outside and opening presents with my family. Rhys K.
Opening presents with my
Play with my sister, open presents, celebrate Dad’s birthday, play outside and go to hotels. Mila S.
Open presents, take a walk outside, play with my family, go shopping to buy new clothes, and build snowmen. Melanie S.
Go watch hockey, go skidooing with my cousins down in the valley and have a bonfire with wieners. Bryce T.
Getting presents from Santa, playing outside in the snow, going to Mexico and
watching Christmas movies with my family and baking chocolate chip cookies and then eating them with some milk. Brantley W.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
W AY W AY F O O D M AR T W a yw a ys e e ca p p o F irs t N a tio n
Opening presents, decorating a Christmas tree, playing outside with my family, and snowboarding down the hill. Liam W.
DE CK E R I am having a snowball fight. I love to play hockey with Kate. I love Neighbour’s Evening. I am going away to Avonlea. Aleia Waldner
I like to play hockey with Lincoln by the hockey rink. I am unwrapping presents. Antonio Wollman
I am going to go skating with my dad. My dad will be in the net, and I will try to score and he will try to stop my shots. Judah Waldner
I want to unwrap presents. I love skating. I love to go to Lakeside to play. Amy Waldner
I want to unwrap presents. I am having a snow fight. I love to skate. I am going away to visit my grandma in Winnipeg. Maria Frazer
Season’s Greetings from Council & Staff
In the spirit of this special time of year, we want to wish everyone a very happy and healthy holiday that echoes with good cheer.
Municipality of Harrison Park
16-B
Crossroads
Friday, December 19, 2025
This week
WE ASKED STUDENTS:
W h a t sh ould Sa nta bring you for Ch ristm a s? Following submissions are from the Rossburn and Shoal Lake Grade 1 classes. All schools within the area were asked to be part of this edition.
R O SSBU R N
me a remote control car. Nico Cena
I would like Santa to bring me a remote control car and a toy car. Oakley Moar
I would like Santa to bring me a lego boat and a monster truck remote control. I like them because they are cool. Ethan Jonasson
I would like Santa to bring me a remote control boat. Mahikan Thomas
I would like Santa to bring me an xbox. Cayden Shymr-Brandon
SH O AL L AK E “I want a truck with a Christmas tree on top. I would like a 99 nights toy.” Korbin Gregory
I would like Santa to bring me a robot with a remote control that you turn on and it moves. Rydel Brazeau-Bird
“Santa, I want a toy everything for a toy horse. I want a toy barn for my toy horse. I want a toy baby horse. I want a very big toy fence for my toy horse. I want a toy saddle and toy reins for my toy horse.” Grace Horvath
I would like Santa to bring a loom because then I would not get bored. I would like Santa to bring me a furby so that I have a friend to play with. I would like Santa to bring me an axolotl stuffy because it would be so cute. I would like Santa to bring me a remote control Barbie car. Gabriella Korban
I would like Santa to bring
“I want a toy butterfly and a toy rabbit and a flower for my toy butterfly and a toy unicorn and a toy rainbow for my friend. Thanks Santa. Happy Christmas for you Santa. Happy New Year! Eirlys Basaca
TOGETHERNESS
DAR R E L L N E SBIT T / CR O SSR O ADS T H IS W E E K
Snow covered Christmas yard decorations, as found on the front yard of a South Chestnut Street home in Shoal Lake, truly captures the elegance of a winter wonderland adorned by bright and colourful lights on the house. From one house to another, may this incredible time of giving and spending time with family bring you joy that lasts throughout the year. For those facing a challenging season, wishing you love and light and hope fond memories remain close to your heart.
Happ y Holid ays! Wherever we go this holiday season We know folks like you are the reason, That we’ll look forward to returning here To see you all again next year! Thank you for your kindness and business this past year.
Season’s Greetings from Garry & all the staff at
M AY YO UR D AYS BE
Merry & Bright TH IS CH R ISTM AS SE ASO N A N D TH R O UGH O UT TH E N E W YE A R
Gre g N e s b itt Member of the Legislative Assembly Riding Mountain Constituency
Shoal Lake
Constituency Office: #7 – 515 – 4th Avenue P.O. Box 100 Shoal Lake, MB R0J 1Z0 Phone (204) 759-3313 Toll Free 1-844-877-7767 E-mail gregnesbittmla@mymts.net