Friday, December 20, 2019 Neepawa Banner & Press

Friday, December 20, 2019 • Vol.124 No. 21 • Neepawa, Manitoba Plumas, Manitoba 204-386-2206 204-476-0700 tonnseeds@gmail.com

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL MAY YOU HAVE A HEALTHY HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS 2020 !!

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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Inside this week

News- Page 9 HMK Christmas plays

chris.kulbacki@plantpioneer.com 204-966-3245 or 204-476-6449

Gliding into the holiday season

PHOTO BY CASSANDRA WEHRHAHN

The Ice Prec*Ice Pre-Novice Synchro team (from left): Amber Wahoski, Kyla Wahoski, Karissa Ellis and Caitlyn Stevenson, helped the community glide into the holiday season at the Neepawa Figure Skating Club’s annual Christmas Ice Show on Dec. 15. This year’s roster was made up of 29 performances, providing a full two hours of entertainment. See more skating on Page 12

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2 NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019

Opening date confirmed for Neepawa Middle School

By Kira Paterson Neepawa Banner & Press There’s a light at the end of the tunnel for Neepawa’s packed schools! After several estimated opening dates have been pushed back, the construction of Neepawa Middle School (NMS) finally has an end date in sight. While the finishing touches are still in the works, as of Jan. 6, when the students return from holidays, the staff and students will be in the building, using the facilities during the school day. Anything that needs finishing will be done by the construction crew after school hours.

This week, staff, students and crews have been working on moving NMS supplies, as well as Grades 5 and 6 desks, chairs and other equipment into the new building. In addition to NMS students and staff, the Student Services staff, who were in the Beautiful Plains School Division office building, will also be moving into new offices on the west side of the Middle

PHOTOS BY KIRA PATERSON

Top left: The main office of NMS, to the right of the main doors. Bottom left: The second floor hallway, where all the classrooms are.

Right: The multi-purpose room, where students will have their lunch and be able to purchase food at the canteen.

School.

NMS principal and viceprincipal, Val Parayeski and Sherri Hollier, ex-

plained that the existing Middle Years end of the NACI building and the new structure combined will be

considered the Neepawa Middle School, as a hallway was built to connect the two. The Grade 7 and 8

students will remain in their classrooms in the current Middle Years end, while the Grade 6s will move

from their portables, set up behind NACI, and the Grade 5s will be moving over from HMK.

NMS student council helps to feed the community

PHOTOS BY KIRA PATERSON

Last week, the Neepawa Middle School (NMS) Student Council held a bake sale to raise money for the Neepawa Christmas Dinner. One of the NMS classes also won a draw put on by the HOPE group and decided to donate the prize money to the Christmas dinner as well. On Dec. 13, the NMS s tudent council presented this money, a total of $287.50, to Neepawa Chris tmas Dinner co-chair Jenna Beaumont (front lef t).

Beaumont said that the money will be used to purchase food and supplies for the dinner.

On Dec. 12, NMS held their first official Grades 5 to 8 school dance. Instead of admission, students were asked to bring a non-perishable food item. The food collected will be donated to the Salvation Army Food Bank at the Neepawa Community Ministries Centre.

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Travel & Entertainment

DECEMBER 20, 2019

NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS 3

Neepawa Legion Hall packed for Kaleidoscope

PHOTOS BY CASSANDRA WEHRHAHN

Neepawa’s Legion Hall was literally packed on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 14. Held that evening was a Kaleidoscope concert, with music provided by the Derina Harvey band (members pictured above and right).

Kaleidoscope brings MTC to Neepawa

By Moira Woods Kaleidoscope Concerts Don’t miss this year’s Kaleidoscope production by Manitoba Theatre Centre (MTC), The New Canadian Curling Club, by playwright Mark Crawford.

This Kaleidoscope series for 2019/20 is sponsored by

Rob Smith and Son Backhoe and Trucking.

You will be inspired and entertained by this terrific comedy that is set in a small town very much like Neepawa. In the play, Marlene wants to diversify the curling club. She encourages four newcomers to join and trouble ensues when

[Mary’s Song] And Mary said:“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name.

Luke 1:46-47, 49 (New International Version)

Marlene breaks her hip and her politically incorrect husband steps into the hack!

This is a brand new play about immigration, community and national identity. It’s a big story with a big message. Come out

Neepawa and hurry hard to the Roxy to see this great production!

Our show sponsor is Neepawa Gladstone Co-op. It all starts at 7:30 on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020! Rush seats are always available at the door!

Join us in 2020 for our

20th year travelling!

Chicago Tour April 18-24th $1650.00 pp dbl occ Shedd Aquarium, Museums & Architectural Boat Tour!

Newfoundland Labrador Tour June 23 - July 5th

$3950.00 pp dbl occ Icebergs, Whales & Puffins! Westjet flights from Winnipeg!

California Zephyr Train Tour

October 16-25th $3400.00 pp dbl occ Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevadas, San Francisco Bay Area!

Temple Gardens Mineral Spa February 24-27th www.neepawaroxy.ca

EXTRA Show • Dec 20 7:30 pm - regular admission

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation Celebrate the 30th anniversary of this Christmas classic!

The Griswold family's plans for a big family Christmas predictably turn into a big disaster. (PG) Looking for stocking stuffer ideas?

WE HAVE GIFT CERTIFICATES!

Gift certificates are available at It’s Time Fashions & Gifts or call 204-841-3104 There will be no regular movies in December

Soak & Renew in the therapeutic waters! $385.00 Motorcoach Departs Brandon.

September 21-29th Missouri Quilt Tour!

Jenny Doan Trunk Show - Ozark Quilt Show!

Contact us for complete tour details!

Red-White & Blue Get-A-Ways 1-866-846-3795 • www.rwbgetaways.com

NEEPAWA ACCESS 12 Mon. Dec. 23 10:00 ............ Good Morning Canada 10:03 ................................... Scrooge 11:25 ...... Neepawa Parade of Lights 11:45 .A Christmas Carol - Whitemud 1:25 ... HMK Presents “Flakes”- 2011 2:00 ............. Harry’s Classic Theatre 3:45 ......Community Announcements 3:55 .Cookie Walk & Photos w/ Santa 4:00 .Kid’s Story-Time - Xmas Special 4:30 ........................................ Rotary 5:15 ............ Christmas in Song 2019 6:55 ..................Shrek - Pre- Concert 7:00 ...The Beverly Hillbillies-S01E13 7:30 ..Coffee Chat- Christmas Dinner 8:00 ............ Christmas programming 9:15 ......H.M.K. Christmas Play 2018 9:45 ....Twas the Night Before X-mas 10:00 ....Community Announcements Tues. Dec. 24 10:00 ............ Good Morning Canada 10:03 .......HMK Christmas Play 2019 10:50 .Xmas Comes But Once a Year 11:00 .Classic Cartoon - Pink Panther 12:15 ....Community Announcements 12:25 .Gladstone School Xmas Concert 1:40 ..Coffee Chat- Christmas Dinner 2:10 ........................ Joe Santa Claus 2:35 ..Girl Guide Christmas Crafts #3 2:45 ............Neepawa Natives Game 5:00 .......... Selkirk Aboriginal Church 7:00 ............Story Behind the Stories 7:30 ........................Val’s Adventures 9:00 ..........................Today’s Church 10:00 ....Community Announcements Wed. Dec. 25 10:00 ............ Good Morning Canada 10:03 .Coffee Chat- Christmas Dinner 10:35 .Cookie Walk & Photos w/ Santa 10:40 ..Selkirk Church Xmas Concert 11:20 .Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 11:30 ..........Story Behind the Stories 12:00 ....Community Announcements 12:10 .......... Christmas programming 1:25 .........HMK X-mas Concert 2007 2:00 ................... First Baptist Church 3:15 ............ Christmas in Song 2019 4:55 ..Val’s Adventures: Xmas Lights 5:30 .. NACI Christmas Band Concert 6:30 ..................................Herb Dock 7:00 ... Minnedosa Christmas Parade 7:30 .Santa and the Fairy Snow Queen 8:00 .............................Town Council 9:00 ........ Neepawa Parade of Lights 9:20 .............Christmas Lights (2017) 9:45 .........Jamie Lee (pianist) X-mas 9:55 ..Girl Guide Christmas Crafts #1 10:00 ....Community Announcements Thurs. Dec. 26 10:00 ............ Good Morning Canada NACTV programming is done by volunteers and substitutions are sometimes necessary.

Programming may also be seen livestreamed at www.nactv.tv/live .

NACTV 476-2639

10:03 ..........Neepawa Natives Game 12:20 .......HMK Christmas Play 2019 1:05 ..Val’s Adventures: Grand Forks 1:30 ................ Sherlock Holmes-#10 2:00 .......... Selkirk Aboriginal Church 4:00 .Gladstone School Xmas Concert 5:15 ......Community Announcements 5:25 ............................... Mrs. Miracle 6:55 ..Girl Guide Christmas Crafts #2 7:00 ............Story Behind the Stories 7:30 ........................Val’s Adventures 8:30 .............................Town Council 9:30 .Christmas 2012 - Santa Parade 10:00 ....Community Announcements Fri. Dec. 27 10:00 ............ Good Morning Canada 10:03 .. Figure Skating - Xmas on Ice 11:50 .Val’s Adventures: Xmas Lights 12:00 ...........................Town Council 1:00 ............Story Behind the Stories 1:30 ... Minnedosa Christmas Parade 2:00 ............. Harry’s Classic Theatre 4:10 .Kid’s Story-Time - Xmas Special 4:40 .Cookie Walk & Photos w/ Santa 4:45 .Community Choir Xmas Cantata 5:50 .J.M.Young School Xmas Concert 7:00 .......... NAC TV Reads the News 8:15 .................. Manitoba Basketball 9:15 ... HMK- Santa’s Holiday Playlist 9:45 .Cookie Walk & Santa @ ArtsForward 10:00 ....Community Announcements Sat. Dec. 28 10:00 ............ Good Morning Canada 10:03 ........ NAC TV Reads the News 11:20 .......... Christmas in Song 2019 1:00 ..Classic Cartoon - Pink Panther 2:10 .........HMK Christmas Play 2019 2:55 ......Community Announcements 3:00 .......... NAC TV Reads the News 4:15 .Gladstone School Xmas Concert 5:30 .............................Town Council 6:30 ..................................Herb Dock 7:00 ............Story Behind the Stories 7:30 .The Beverly Hillbillies - S02E148:00 ............Neepawa Natives Game 10:15 ....Community Announcements Sun. Dec. 29 10:00 ............ Good Morning Canada 10:03 ..........Neepawa United Church 11:15 . ... Calvary Church, Minnedosa 12:00 ............... St. Dominic’s Church 1:00 ................... First Baptist Church 2:15 ......Community Announcements 2:25 .........HMK Christmas Play 2019 3:10 .............Christmas Cantata Noel 3:55 ... HMK Musical - A Pirate Xmas 4:40 ............ Christmas programming 5:55 .Minnedosa Parade & Xmas Concert 7:00 ................... First Baptist Church 8:15 ............... Sherlock Holmes- #11 8:45 ........ Neepawa Parade of Lights 9:05 ... Minnedosa Christmas Parade 9:35 .........Street Party and Jam Fest 10:00 ....Community Announcements

Times and programs are subject to change without notice

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Perspectives

4 NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS

What to expect?

Tundra

by Chad Carpenter

P

O Come Let Us Adore Him!

T

he familiar strains of this hymn of the Christian church is well known around the world. The words and music have implored millions of listeners to come and adore the Baby Jesus and to follow him. The name Jesus means “saviour”or “rescuer”.

The birth of Jesus was predicted for centuries in the Jewish faith.

It also marked the end of the Old Testament, or old covenant, and the beginning of New Testament, or new covenant. The New Testament implores people to accept Jesus as Saviour from their sin. A person who accepts Jesus as Saviour is known as a Christian.

So countries that have a lot of Christians living in them became known as Christian countries.

Actually, a country can’t be a Christian, only individuals can become Christian, one at a time by way of a personal faith in and comittment to Christ. That said, it is indeed sad that countries that are home to millions who profess Christ, don’t govern according to Christian teaching. What a fantastic statement it would be if Canada, the United States and Great Britain practised what their citizens preached?

Let me explain. Christ’s teachings say that accepting Him as Saviour is to be followed by a policy of loving your neighbour as yourself.

If countries truly lived a Christian lifestyle, they might well have as strong a military as is affordable, but actions would, as much as possible, be limited to defending the country from attack. I will not pass judgement on any previous wars or leaders of their day, but how much better it would be if countries resolved to avoid attacking another nation? neepawa

Banner & Press

STAFF

DECEMBER 20, 2019

RIGHT IN THE CENTRE

Ken Waddell

“

If Christ’s teachings show up clearly in our lives, hopefully they will translate into better conduct as a nation.

As tough as it might be to stomach, should a Christian country have the death penalty? Should they not put offenders in jail for as long as they live if they commit horrible, violent crimes? It’s pretty hard to say “love thy neighbour” and then kill them, even if it is to penalize a crime. Let’s move down the scale a bit. Shouldn’t a Christian country avoid torturing war prisoners? Aren’t some of our police interrogation tactics of people under arrest a bit suspect?

Would it not be the Christian thing to do to clamp down on crime, so we can save more people from the effects of crime, but do we have to abuse them as we enforce our laws?

Isn’t it time that we quit apologizing to our First Nations people and actually spend our time and money on helping communities get ahead? How long will it be before we follow Jesus’ teaching that said we should offer “a cup of water?” In Canada, we can’t even get clean water to all our communities.

Is there any room for racism or discrimination in a Christian

”

country? I think not.

There is another side to the coin as well. It is also a Christian teaching that people need to do as much as they can to help themselves, so they can provide for themselves and their families. We are all supposed to help ourselves so that out of the abundance of God’s blessings, we are enabled to help others.

Christmas reminds us of our need for Christ and how blessed we are. If Christ’s teachings show up clearly in our lives, hopefully they will translate into better conduct as a nation.

May everyone and every country ponder what would happen when we “come and adore Him.” Note: This column is reprinted from the Dec. 21, 2018 Neepawa Banner & Press.

Disclaimer: The writer serves as a volunteer chair of the Manitoba Community Newspaper Association.

The views expressed in this column are the writer’s personal views and are not to be taken as being the view of the MCNA board or Banner & Press staff.

243 Hamilton Street, Box 699, Neepawa, Manitoba R0J 1H0 Telephone: (204) 476-3401 Fax: (204) 476-5073 Toll-free: 1-888-436-4242 (within Manitoba) www.neepawabanner.com

Owners/Publishers Ken and Chris Waddell

regnancy, birth and infant care are fraught with challenges, ones both expected and unexpected. Next year, expectant parents in the Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) region will have one less resource to help them navigate this life-changing experience. Going forward, PMH has decided to discontinue their general, group prenatal classes. Instead, they are recom mend i ng MY families con- PERSPECTIVE tact their Public Health office for an individualized Kate a s s e s s m e n t Jackman-Atkinson and access to resources.

In addition to meeting with a Public Health nurse, families are being directed to the PMH website. There, they can find links to resources, including “Baby’s Best Chance”, a Canadian parental handbook that is given out to expecting parents, and web resources put together by the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and the provincial government.

Families wanting in-person support and advice are being encouraged to attend Healthy Baby meetings. These monthly meetings are for pregnant women and parents with young children. In Neepawa, two are held each month, for two hours during the day, one at the Neepawa Public Library and one at Neepawa Settlement Services.

The prenatal classes were held outside regular business hours.

In Neepawa, there were about four, held on Saturdays, spread throughout the year. In some places, the classes are held over multiple weeks, in the evening. The times were set with the convenience of parents in mind.

The RHA has said the change isn’t due to lack of interest among participants, but a change in how they deliver services.

There is a tremendous amount go information available for expectant and new parents out there, but is it the right kind of information?

General prenatal courses provide structured information, taking a parent from pregnancy through to post-partum. It provides information about healthy pregnancy, labour and delivery, as well as what you can expect from life with an infant. One of the great things about general classes is that they provide information you might not think you’ll need, but should know, because the experience rarely goes to plan.

This is why it’s vital to have this information, from a reliable source, before you need it. Any new or expectant parent who has found themselves in a frenzy at 2:30 a.m. because the internet told them something they did or didn’t do will cause irreparable harm to their child knows this. The internet is a vortex of parenting advice, it’s like self-diagnosing on WebMD, only worse.

A 2016 report from the Quebec Public Health department found that group prenatal classes can inform, increase confidence and provide a greater sense of emotional support during pregnancy, however, alone, they can’t influence health outcomes. The classes provide one option for parents looking for reliable information about one of life’s biggest challenges.

For many, the changes aren’t a huge concern. Group prenatal classes are still available for a fee through private providers and parents who have flexibility in their days can easily meet with a Public Health nurse or attend a Healthy Baby meeting.

Expectant mothers with a good relationship with their doctor can be informed about their options and available resources, but what about those who don’t have a regular doctor, let alone one with whom they have a good relationship? Parents who are good at advocating for themselves will be fine, but what about those who aren’t?

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Perspectives

DECEMBER 20, 2019

The spirit of Christmas I A

NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS 5

Observation

s I stated two weeks ago, I am ful ly aware that some of my readers don’t celebrate Christmas. I will repeat what I stated then. I have no quarrel and do not wish to debate the issue with them. We should be able to disagree on this topic and still remain friends.

We do, however, agree on one thing. Whatever our beliefs about Christmas itself, we accept Jesus’s birth as a historical fact; and we believe that, during his time on earth, his words gave us sound teaching and his actions set an example for us to follow.

So whether we celebrate Christmas or not, there are three things that we can do on Dec. 25 that will enable us to obey Jesus’ commands and follow his example.

First, we can use the day to do good deeds for others.

We can visit the sick in the hospital or care home.

We can encourage those we meet who are without hope. We can help feed the hungry or do something

FAITHFULLY YOURS

Neil Strohschein practical to help others who are in need.

The gospels tell us that during his time on earth, Jesus went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the enemy. Whether we celebrate Christmas or not, he would want us to follow his example. And he would ask us to be generous in the gifts of time and treasure we share with those in need.

Second, Jesus looked after those who were important to him. He was never far away from his family, especia l ly his mot her.

Scholars believe that by the time Jesus began his public ministry, his earthly father, Joseph, had died.

So Jesus, as the first born son of Mary, would have

been responsible for her well-being.

We’re not told precisely how much time he spent looking after her or precisely what he did. But we do know that, just before he died, he asked St. John the apostle to look after his mother. And we know that St. John did so until Mary died.We also know that on several occasions during his public ministry, Jesus took time off, and that he and his disciples would go to a quiet place to relax, rest and recharge their spirits before resuming their work among the masses who came to see them.

Most of us won’t have to go to work on Dec. 25.

So we can use part of that day to connect with those who are closest to us– by

phone, email or in person.

We may be able to share a meal with some of them.

But we all can use the day to strengthen close relationships, encourage those we love and let them be an encouragement to us.

Finally, we can spend part of the day in spiritual development. Dec. 25 is a good day to spend some time reading Scripture, reflecting on what we read, reading good spiritual books, watching videos or listening to programs that will help us grow in our relationship with God. Here, as in every other part of life, Jesus sets the example for us. He often spent time in remote places, where no one could interrupt him, speaking with his heavenly Father and drawing from those encounters the strength he needed to face the grueling days that lay ahead. He would urge us to do the same– not just on Dec. 25, but throughout the year. We owe it to him to take this advice seriously.

The golden tablecloth L

ast week, for the first time, the golden tablecloth needed a soaking. There were stains that had not come out after the regular laundry cycle.

It should not have come as a surprise to me, for it has covered many a groaning table for over 40 years. It came with the household when I married Ed, way back in 1974. It was new and cr isp, the creases firm. Designed for an oval table, it has covered square tables and round tables, it has been doubled to cover a smaller table. It is not the only tablecloth in the house, but I am attached to it.

There have been so many changes in these nearly five decades. The first years witnessed the table filled with youth and teens. There were spills of gravy and slops of mashed potatoes. Elbows reaching for the buns knocked over milk or juice glasses. There were saskatoon pie stains.

HOMEBODIES Rita Friesen

The family dynamics changed with time and now, young adults surrounded the table, bringing friends and future partners.

Laughter abounded, for with the feast of foods there was the feast of family stories.

Before I knew it, there was a high chair in the corner again. This time, g randchi ldren. The tablecloth witnessed the changing of the guard, the child becoming the parent. The basics of the meal hadn’t changed, for I am a meat and potatoes cook. I mastered home made buns and pies, and for those gifts, I was forgiven many a meagre meal! (I digress: as my sister-in-law was palliative, her lunch

consisted of a biscuit and a fruit cup. Looking around at her family, she stated, “If I knew this is considered a meal, I could have got away with a lot less time in the kitchen!”)

It wasn’t long before the kids were gone, and for a few brief years, we were empty nesters. The tablecloth came out when the kids came home. Another generation filled our home, and their friends. The golden tablecloth noted the changes, the lace edging becoming a little limp, still intact, but no longer crisp. Now for gatherings, another table filled the dining room as well. It got the green table cloth, one that was bright and fresh.

The people gathered told

stories about and around the golden one.

Another changing of the guard. The grandchildren are now parents. They bring their babies home for me to enjoy. There isn’t a high chair in the corner anymore; they bring a booster seat, buckled onto the kitchen chair. The grown grands now gently finger the tablecloth and tisk at me for being sentimental and border line hoarding. It’s not hoarding if you keep some favourite items, even when there is a replacement already in the home.

The last family meal was the real deal– turkey, stuff ing, gravy, mashed potatoes, salads– no pies or buns, for now, if I make them, I eat them, too many of them, sadly. Somehow, this time, some stains remained. As I set the beloved tablecloth to soak, my mind was filled with memories, and my heart with gratitude. May it always be so.

By Addy Oberlin t is a winter wonderland here right now. A couple of inches of fresh snow gives the world around me a fresh look. The chickadees are hungry today and invade the bird feeder. Sometimes, I even see a jay swinging and trying to get some food from the feeder.

It is also cold and windy out and when I need to go to the store I avoid the little hill by our street and go the “upper” road. With no snow tires or four wheel drive, I do not want to get hopelessly stuck again in the snow. I believe we should not be fearful, but also have common sense. “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God,” (Psalm 20:7). My little chariot is not trustworthy in the snow.

Every day we have to make choices. However, if we can let the Lord have His way in our life, we will get where He wants us to be.

May Christmas be a loving blessing to all of us.

Letters

Greetings from NCL

The Municipality of North Cypress Langford (NCL) has been reflecting on 2019 as it comes to an end.

This year was one of challenges, change and tragedy.

Our Municipality was hit hard, when one of our long time councillors, Fred Jackson was killed in a farming accident. Fred was a good neighbour and served the municipality for 12 years, with great dedication. He was committed to our citizens and his loss will be felt for many years to come.

It was a year of change when council welcomed Trish Fraser to the position of CAO for the Municipality.

Our councillors are looking forward to working with Trish and all the valuable experience she brings to the leadership role. Thank you to our office staff for working through this process with all of us.

Our Public Works department also struggled this year with loss with the passing of Gerry Mountain. Gerry worked in the Municipality over the years and stepped in this past spring to help out with our vacancies.

Glen Campbell moved into the Foreman role at the shop, and hired two new grader operators – Trevor North and Mackenzie Brereton to get personnel back to its full compliment. On behalf of Council and the Municipality, I would like to thank the staff for their extra efforts in getting us through the year, shorthanded.

Manitoba Good Roads recognized council’s commitment to our road system and awarded NCL with two awards - The Capital 1 Shield for the Best Maintained System of Municipal Roads and The Most Improved Roads – District 4 category. This was made possible because of the exemplary work being done by our Public Works department.

Continued on page 17

Thumbs up, thumbs down Thumbs up to Lee’s Restaurant for surprising us in the office with some delicious Chinese food and candies last Thursday. It really made our day!

Kira Paterson On behalf of the Neepawa Banner & Press staff Would you like to send a thumbs up or thumbs down to an individual or group in the community?

Please send it our way. Submissions must include a name and must be under 100 words.

We want to hear from you!

In person: 243 Hamilton St. Neepawa By fax: 204-476-5073 By email: news@neepawabanner.com

6 NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019

Helen Drysdale out of helen’s kitchen

Philippines

Filipinos are known to celebrate the longest Christmas season in the world. One can feel the spirit of Christmas in the Philippines starting in September. Filipinos start to adorn their houses, businesses and streets with Christmas trees and vibrant, colourful lights. The festive parols, or star-shaped lanterns, that brighten windows during the holiday season, are meant to reflect the Star of Bethlehem. At one time, the lanterns were simple creations, made from paper and lit by a candle. Today, the lanterns are made from a variety of materials and have grown to a variety of sizes and are illuminated by electric bulbs. Parades, parties and concerts crowd the calendar of the Christmas season. Filipinos are music lovers, so Christmas carols have been part of the tradition of celebrating the season. People go from house to house in the neighbourhood, singing Christmas carols.

Christianity came to the Philippines in the 1500s, when missionaries from countries like Portugal and Spain traveled to the area. To the Filipino Roman Catholics, Simbang Gabi is an important part of the Christmas celebration. Simbang Gabi is a series of nine dawn masses on the days leading up to Christmas. It is a spiritual preparation for Christmas. Rising early in the morning and going to church in the dark adds to the sacrifice and specialness. Filipinos believe that if they attend all the masses, the expectation is that one’s wishes will likely be answered. Christmas Eve is very significant in the Philippines. People go to church to celebrate the Christmas Eve mass at midnight.

After the midnight mass comes the awaited Noche Buena feast. Families, relatives and friends gather together and enjoy the traditional feast of Filipino foods.

Foods such as lechon (whole, slowly roasted pig), pancit (rice noodles cooked with meat and vegetables), glazed baked ham, Kare-kare (traditional Filipino oxtail stew in peanut sauce), Lumpiang Shanghai (spring rolls), queso de bola (Dutch Edam cheese) and a lot more are served. I had to wonder about the Dutch cheese, as cheese is not too prominent in Filipino cuisine. This lovely round cheese was introduced to the country by the Dutch traders. Wrapped in red wax, queso de bola has good omens. Round things symbolize money and red is a symbol of good luck. Filipinos have a sweet tooth, so of course there are lots of sweets. Leche Flan is a caramel custard, Puto bumbóng is a Filipino purple rice cake, steamed in bamboo tubes, Bibingka is a soft coconut rice cake, Ube Halaya is a pudding made from purple yams and Buko salad is the Philippines’ take on fruit salad. This salad is made from young coconut mixed with condensed milk, cream, fruit cocktail and fresh fruit. Top this off with a good old cup of Tablea tsokolate, or Filipino hot chocolate.

Maja Blanca is a popular holiday dessert that’s rich, creamy and bursting with corn and coconut flavor! This luscious dessert is easy to make and the ingredients are easy to purchase.

Maja Blanca 1 400ml can coconut milk 1 354ml can evaporated milk 1 300ml can condensed milk 1/2 cup sugar 3/4 cup milk

3/4 cup cornstarch 1 cup sweet corn kernels 1 tsp. vegetable oil 1 cup shredded coconut

Combine the coconut milk, evaporated milk, condensed milk and sugar in a pot.

Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring. Add the corn into the pot. Dissolve the cornstarch in the 3/4 cup of milk and whisk the cornstarch/milk into the pot, stirring vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens. It does not take long.

Brush sides and bottom of a 9”x13”cake pan with the oil. Pour the mix into the pan.

Using an oiled spatula, smooth the top. Leave at room temperature for an hour. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Serve topped with toasted coconut shavings.

To make the toasted coconut, spread the coconut into a baking sheet, lined with aluminum foil. Place this in preheated 350°F oven. Toast for about 4 minutes, then toss the coconut with a spatula and toast for 1 to 2 minutes more. Watch it closely and take it out as soon as you see that most of the coconut has turned brown. Sprinkle over the Maja Blanca. Cut into serving squares.

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hank you Santa!

Thank you for this COLUMN most unexpected LIKE I SEE ‘EM Christmas gift; the gift of federal Conservative leader Andrew Scheer stepping down. The announcement Eoin on Thursday, Dec. 12 of Scheer’s resignation came as Devereux a complete shock to me. But while I was surprised by the decision, I can’t say that it Andrew Scheer, though his It feels as though the bothered me all that much, actions, and in some cases Federal Conservative Party because, quite honestly inaction on social issues, used to have that same Andrew Scheer never con- allowed that far right per- mindset as I do. It focused nected with me as a voter. I ception to be placed upon on the principals of smaller was not alone in that discon- him. This is an opportunity government, lower taxes nect, as it was Scheer’s in- to change the narrative and and law and order. The ability to resonate with some move the party just a little problem now, however, is voters that ultimately led to bit closer to the centre so it that it feels as though, as a his undoing. Well,… that can address the concerns of conservative, I also have to and the alleged secret slush most Canadians. think that two people of a fund for his kids’ tuition,… similar sex getting married but mostly the disconnect. or adopting a child together Small-c There was no doubt in my is destroying our society. conservative mind that Scheer needed Now I’ve identified as a I have to keep track of to go, and I’m saying that small-c conservative most how many times you go to as someone who usually of my adult life. I believe church and whether or not votes Conservative. Now, in restrained government it’s the right church. I’m not I have received a little bit spending, focused on the saying all of this is officially of good naetched in As I grow older, I’m really starting to miss s t o n e tured flack for t hat the progressive part of what use to be within the particular pa r t y’s the Progressive Conservatives. opinion sacred tabsince the election. I have necessities of our nation. lets, but under Scheer, fairly been quite verbal around the If money is to be spent, or unfairly, it sometimes felt office that Scheer needed to let’s distribute it to more like it. step aside, despite the fact transfer support for infraAs I grow older, I’m the election night results structure, health and social really starting to miss the were actually a tremendous programs, as opposed to progressive part of what step forward for him and federally funded sketch use to be the Progressive the party. But while the comedy shows or interpret- Conservatives. Maybe, just Conservatives did win the ive jazz appreciation radio maybe, the next leader can popular vote, two-thirds programs on the CBC. do something about that. of Canadians still voted I believe that yes, we do Because continuing down to the left of the political need to be a global partner the same path and expecting spectrum via the Liberals, and help those in other na- to arrive in a different desNew Democrats or Green tions that can’t help them- tination is, in my opinion, Party. That type of result, selves. But before we feed Scheer madness. in my estimation is not go- all the hungry in Yemen, ing to change in the future let’s make sure everyone in Disclaimer: Column like I and that is the reality that Yellowknife has a full belly. see ‘em is a monthy opinion colthe Conservatives must face.

I believe five years should umn for the Neepawa Banner They simply cannot have a be five years when a judge & Press. The views expressed leader who is perceived as hands it down. Not two in the article are the writer’s pulling them further over years, because a criminal personal views and are not to to the right and have a made their bed everyday be taken as being the view of realistic chance of forming and didn’t shank their the Neepawa Banner & Press. government. And fair or not, cellmate.

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Skatch: ‘We’re not giving up on economic development’ Changes coming to economic development in Minnedosa

By Kate Jackman-Atkinson Neepawa Banner & Press There are changes coming to economic development in the town of Minnedosa, but just what the end result will be is still unknown. About a month ago, news broke that the Town of Minnedosa would be discontinuing its funding of the Minnedosa Community Development Corporation (CDC), the organization that oversees economic development in the area. The CDC employed two staff, including an economic development officer, prior to the funding cut. At the beginning of 2019, the CDC was funded by the Town of Minnedosa, RM of Minto-Odanah and the RM of Oakview.

Minnedosa mayor Pat Skatch, who sits on the CDC board, explained that when they found out this summer that the RM of Oakview wouldn’t continue funding the organization in 2020, Minnedosa council was faced with a decision: would they step up to fill the funding gap or move in a different direction? She explained that this event caused the council to re-evaluate their economic development plan and ask,

“How do we want to go forward?”

“There’s no timeline, [we] have to let the chips fall,” said Skatch regarding when the the Town plans to have something new in place. She explained that they are hoping to work with the new regional economic development office, expected to open in Brandon early next year, which will help provide them with some tools and focus as they develop their plan. She added that they are also looking at courses available through the Economic Developers Association of Manitoba, which would help with the restructuring. “We want to start with a clean slate,” she said.

While the Town has withdrawn funding from the CDC, Skatch said, “We’re not giving up on economic development.”

She explained that they just have to decide how they want to restructure their efforts going forward. She added that the town has a lot of unique businesses and council would like to see the community able to capitalize on, and expand, their industrial base, as well as keep moving the community forward.

While council thought that stepping back and re-evaluating how they handle economic development is the best idea, Skatch said it came with some tough decisions. “The unfortunate part is that two staff members have been given

notice…That’s the hardest part,” she said. She praised the work the CDC staff had done, including a recently completed re-branding effort that resulted in the “Valley Life” brand.

With the CDC no longer staffed, for now, Skatch said all inquires will be directed through the Town of Minnedosa CAO. Additionally, the development work being doing by the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism committee will continue.

While it has lost two of its three funding sources, Skatch said the CDC board remains in operation. In addition to representatives from the funding municipalities, the board includes representatives from the Rolling River School Division, the recreation district, the Chamber of Commerce and the Tourism Committee.

As the remaining funding partner, Aaren Robertson, CAO of the RM of Minto-Odanah, explained that the CDC is effectively defunct. He explained that with the loss of funding from the two other municipalities, the $31,500 they allocated to the CDC isn’t enough to keep it going. “[Minnedosa] made the decision for us,” he said. At this point, Robertson said they haven’t decided how the money previously used to fund the CDC’s operations would be re-allocated.

True Christmas joy in Plumas

By Jean Borchardt Zion Lutheran Church Sunday, Dec. 15 was a very special Sunday, at Zion Lutheran Church, in Plumas. Unbeknown to Pastor and Marilea Vosper and family, the congregation was organizing a potluck luncheon. Not just an ordinary luncheon, but with special meaning for the Vosper family.

Rev. Vosper began the third Advent Ser v ice, speaking on “The Disciples of John the Baptist”. We’re all disciples of John the Baptist, as he prepared the way for Jesus. Following the service, he thanked everyone for coming and welcomed all the visitors. He called on Chairman Howard Buffi to add a few announcements.

Howard extended an invitation to everyone to join in the potluck luncheon following the service, even if they didn’t know about it, and then proceeded, on behalf of Zion Lutheran Congregation, to express his heartfelt appreciation to Pastor Vosper for his

faithfulness in serving the congregation. Howard also praised Marilea for being his support, as it’s a blessing when the wife is supportive of all his work in the congregation.

Members of the congregation were standing in the back of the church and began bringing box after box of food items, even a bag of flour, because their three active boys love their sweets and mom looks after those needs as well. Pastor Vosper and Marilea were overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and trying to express his appreciation was so difficult for him.

He told Marilea, “You say something!”, and she too was speechless. There weren’t very many dry eyes in the church.

Everyone moved down to the basement and thoroughly enjoyed the food.

The microphone was then turned over to a group from McCreary who entertained us. They were called the “Just for Fun” Singers. Barry and Priscille Penner, and Barry’s

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sisters, Sandra McCluckie and Linda Turko, sang a few Christmas songs and turned the mic over to Merv Bohn. He sang a number of country western songs and then turned the mic over to Ken and Mary Flatt, who sang a number of songs as well. Merv Bohn even conned Pastor Vosper into joining him in singing the Johnny Cash song, “Walk the Line.” All through the afternoon presentation, everyone joined in singing.

Merv Bohn was sitting back and listening and really taping his feet to the beat of the music, when Barry, Priscille and his sisters were singing, so he got a couple of spoons and was banging the spoons on his knee. Donna Lach got into the spirit of the day and joined him by banging some spoons to the beat of the music. Everyone was so overjoyed with the day, but finally, the time was coming to the end of this wonderful time of fellowship, so the band played and we all sang “Silent Night.”

Pastor Vosper led us in a final prayer asking for

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Barry Penner (seated) and (from left) Priscille Penner, Sandra McCluckie and Linda Turko provided entertainment at Plumas Zion Lutheran Church on Dec. 15.

everyone’s safe travel back home.

Merry Christmas and God’s blessings in the New Year 2020.

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Looking Back

8 NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2019

1979: Clowns spread cheer at Santa Parade

By Cassandra Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press

110 years ago, Tuesday, December 14, 1909 Those who, a few years ago, deprecated agitation and contention in municipal matters should be happy.

Everything seems to be harmonious. There is not so much as a hint of a public meeting to discuss past records and future policy. It looks as if the Press editor will have to butt in again. That would wake up the women and moral reformers.

100 years ago, Friday, December 19, 1919 According to the report of the department of customs, the revenue at Neepawa for the past year was $7,551.60.

90 years ago, Tuesday, December 17, 1929 Opening of the Safeway Store was the event of last weekend, many goodwill purchases being made with a view to observation and criticism. The premises are the last word in neatness and convenience, the employees alert and courteous, wearing garments of uniformity. It has been said that goods, well displayed, are already half sold, and this appears to be the belief of the Safeway people, for whichever way the customer looks, something appealing meets the view. The management expressed entire satisfaction with the amount of business done and the readiness of customers to conform to store rules.

Note: It is suspected that this old Safeway is now the presentday Banner & Press.

80 years ago, Friday, December 15, 1939 All Jews in the Warsaw district must wear a Jewish star on a yellow armband.

Japan generals who recently visited Germany predict a Nazi victory on the basis of new chemical weapons she had devised.

It has been reported that Hitler’s secret weapon is an inflammable gas, visible and odorless, which is spread by aeroplanes and causes enormous fires. It was said to have been experimented with during the Polish war with great effect.

70 years ago, Thursday, December 22, 1949 Strange as it may seem,

most American Christmas customs stem la rgely from Pagan rights and practiced long before the birth of Christ… Christmas candles, bonfires, and Yule logs arose from the heathen festivals observing the winter solstice, December 21, when the days begin to lengthen. That was a time of great rejoicing for ancient sun worshippers who built bonfires to give strength to the “winter sun god.”

Pre-Christian Romans ornamented their homes with green boughs and f lowers for the feast of Saturnalia, which began Dec. 19. Druids gathered mistletoe for the season, while ancient Saxons used holly, ivy and bay. Modern mistletoe and holly wreaths come from those people.

Christmas trees too, spring from the ancient German days when German tribes made sacrifices to the sacred oak tree of Odin.

Note: According to the Oxford dictionary, Paganism is broadly defined as a religion that is other than that of the main world religions, specifically those that are non-Christian or predate the Christian religion.

Modern Paganism incorporates pre-existing practices and often includes a respect/honouring of the earth. The term “heathen”, primarily derogatory in nature, is often applied to Pagans by non-Pagans.

Most Christmas traditions considered culturally Christian today stem from Pagan religions, beliefs and traditions. Even gift giving! All these traditions were rationalized into Christianity by missionaries, in hopes of being able to convert more people.

The early Christian church, in addition to this, had also tried to ban Pagan customs.

Some more examples of Pagan roots include: Saturnalia– a Roman holiday that takes place from from Dec. 17 to Dec. 25 in celebration of Saturn, the god of agriculture and time; the legend of La Befana; the Dutch figure known as Sinterklaas; and Yule– Germanic and Scandinavian in origin and may include varying traditions. Some Yule traditions include celebration of the god Odin, one of the figures that our present-day Santa Claus is based

on; the Wild Hunt and the AngloSaxon Modraniht. There are so many more interesting festivals and traditions!

60 years ago, Friday, December 18, 1959 Close to 100 farmers attending a meeting of the Neepawa local of the Manitoba Farmer’s Union Wednesday night were assured that a Pool Elevator Association will be formed here.

It was reported that a canvas conducted during the last couple of weeks obtained more than 800 signatures favoring the project.

When it is formed, the Association will take charge of the Ogilvie’s elevator in Neepawa. The latter is one of several across the Prairies that were purchased recently by the Manitoba Pool Elevator Association.

50 years ago, Thursday, December 18, 1969 The Minister of Education has given approval for tendering of the Hazel M. Kel ling ton school addition, it was revealed at the Beautiful Plains School Board meeting Wednesday, Dec. 10.

T he 11,0 0 0 squa re foot addition will house a six classroom open area.

Other features will be a music room, a classroom for retardates and a library resources centre.Plans also call for the conversion of a three-classroom area in the older portion into a multipurpose lunch and class room.

40 years ago, Thursday, December 20, 1979 Jolly old Santa Claus is not the only one delivering gifts at Christmastime.

In Scandinavia, they are brought by little gnomelike creatures called “Yule Men,” who are said to live hidden in the attic all year long.

Note: T he Yule Lads – their proper name– are trolls specifically of Icelandic origin.

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The Yule lads, numbering 13 in total, are the merry but mischievous sons of two other Icelandic folklore figures– Gryla and Leppaludi. According to the National Museum of Iceland, the Yule Lads’ names, in the order they visit, are: Sheep-Cote Clod, Gully Gawk, Stubby, Spoon Licker, Pot Scraper (or Pot Licker), Bowl Licker, Door Slammer, Skyr (Icelandic yogurt) Gobbler, Sausage Swiper, Window Peeper, Door Sniffer, Meat Hook and Candle Beggar.

The group of 13 come down from the mountains and into town one by one during the last 13 nights leading up to Yule to steal or play pranks on the townsfolk.

On each night, kids leave their shoes on the windowsill, and the Yule Lad who came to visit will leave candy for any who have been good. If the kid has been bad, the Yule Lad will fill the shoes with potatoes. The kids may also choose to leave out little gifts or snacks for the Yule Lads as well– such as “leaf bread”, which is a thin, crispy flatbread made specifically for Yule.

Good kids still need to keep on their toes, though, as the Yule Cat– Gryla’s pet– is said to eat any who have not received at least one new clothing item

by Christmas. According to Icelandic legends, Gryla also collects and eats any misbehaved children.

These folk tales are recorded as first appearing in the 17th century, and have some variation depending on region and age.

30 years ago, Tuesday, December 19, 1989 … According to Norse mythology, the Goddess Frigga made [mistletoe] a symbol of love and promised to bestow a kiss on all who passed under it.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BANNER & PRESS ARCHIVES

There were plenty of clowns present to liven things up and entertain the kids at the Santa Parade in 1979.

Note: In Norse mythos, Frigg (Frigga, alternately) gave birth to a son, Balder. Some time after his birth, Balder had a dream that foretold his own death. Wanting to protect him, Frigga asked the blessing of protection from every living thing, including rocks, so her son would not be harmed.

From then on, all living things on earth bounced off of Balder, and eventually the gods made a game of it. However, mistletoe was omitted or overlooked, which lead to Baldur’s downfall one day when Loki made a dart from the plant and convinced Hoor, Balder’s blind twin brother, to play the game as well with the trickster’s help. The dart was thrown and pierced Baldur’s heart, killing him. Instead of punishing mistletoe, Frigg decreed that mistletoe be a symbol of peace and friendship.

H igh ly pr ized by the Aztecs long before Christianity, the poinsettia has become one of our symbols of Christmas.

The bright red and green plants were a symbol of purity to the Aztec kings, who had them brought to their cities from the hillsides and valleys where they grew wild.

20 years ago, Monday, December 20, 1999 The village of McCreary and the federal program, Green Streets of Canada and the Tree Canada Foundation, entered into a 50/50 agreement several years previously.

With the decimation of many of the shady old elm trees, this program is utilized to help improve urban forests and provide citizens with a greater appreciation of how trees can contribute to the quality of life in a community.

Wishing you a holiday that overflows with love, happiness, friendship and good fortune.

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NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019 9

Christmas performances get HMK into the holiday spirit

PHOTOS BY KIRA PATERSON

Earlier this week, Hazel M Kellington School (HMK) , in Neepawa, presented their annual Christmas musicals.

Mr. Pudlo’s Grade 4 class presented “I Need a Little Christmas Vacation”, about students who get snowed in at school on the last day before Christmas break (pictured above and left).

The rest of the Grade 4 classes, accompanied by Grades 1 to 3, presented “Once on a Housetop”. That production was about a group of chimney sweeps who learned about the many winter holidays celebrated by different cultures (pictured right and below).

WMCI Band Concert spreads Christmas magic in Gladstone

PHOTOS BY JOHN DRINKWATER

The William Morton Collegiate Institute (WMCI) band concert was held on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at the school gym in Gladstone. The senior (above) and junior (right) bands performed, as well as the school choir (top right).

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10 NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019

Mazier reacts to New portable wheelchair lift operational at Yellowhead Centre Scheer decision New MP says there’s still work to do on Parliament Hill

By Eoin Devereux

Neepawa Banner & Press

Some new equipment at Neepawa’s Yellowhead Centre is making the facility a lot more accessible. A portable wheelchair lift, made by American company Adaptive Engineering Inc., recently became operational within the building.

Named the Mobilift CX, the maneuverable equipment provides temporary wheelchair access to locations that do not require permanent facilities or where ramps, elevators and other lifts are not practical or economical. The Mobilift can be rolled into position and operated by just one person in less than a minute.

Yellowhead Centre general manager Chris Turner noted to the Banner & Press that the mobility of the equipment was a big reason why it was purchased.

“We did a lot of research trying to find what was going to work best here. Doing construction is never easy, when it comes to permits

By Eoin Devereux

Neepawa Banner & Press

PHOTO BY EOIN DEVEREUX

The Mobilift CX is in place at the Yellowhead Arena. The equipment can be moved in and out of place in less than a minute.

and things like that. We were looking for a nice, easy solution, that would make the stairs accessible without costing a lot, in terms of construction. We stumbled across [Mobilift CX] on the internet and it’s just a fabulous piece of equipment. We can use this wherever. We can wheel it around, out the door, wherever we need to,” said Turner. “When we do functions out here, especially something such

as grad, we have a lot of grandparents that may have mobility issues, that want to attend. We used to have to bring them through the Zamboni door to access the [arena floor]. Now, they can come through the front, just like everyone else.”

Turner added that if the Yellowhead Centre had decided to install a permanent affixed ramp into the arena, it would have been a much larger undertaking.

“With the requirements, [The current steps from the concourse into the arena] come up 32 inches, so your slope for a permanent ramp have to be one inch every 12.

That would mean a ramp [at least 32 feet long],” stated Turner.

The total cost of the portable wheelchair lift was just under $15,000 Canadian, after the Amercian exchange rate was factored in.

It’s probably fair to say that while Dauphin-Swan River-Neepawa MP Dan Mazier expected his first week in Ottawa to be an eventful one, he never envisioned it would be quite like this. On Dec. 12, just seven days into the current session of Parliament, federal Conservative leader Andrew Scheer announced his resignation as the head of the official opposition.

Until his replacement is chosen, he will stay on as leader.

Mazier, who was elected as the Conservative Party’s candidate, noted that this unexpected announcement caught everyone off guard and just added to the whirlwind he and his staff have been dealing with in their first week on the job.

“It was a sur prise,”

noted Mazier. “It was so far removed from my thoughts. I was focusing on representing the people of Dauphin-Swan RiverNeepawa. We’ve had, I’d say, a good week, but a big week here.”

Mazier noted that the selection of a new leader is still months away, so there is nothing to focus on right now, other than the job he was sent to Ottawa to do.

“The [leadership] decision will be made at the convention, it’s currently lined up for April. Having said that, this announcement might change those dates.

We don’t know,” stated Mazier. “We’re still going to hold [the governing Liberals] accountable. That’s why we’re here. There is no use detracting ourselves from the job, because we do have a minority Parliament and there’s things we can do here.”

19123AX0

PHOTO BY EOIN DEVEREUX

The Mobilift CX allows for easy wheelchair access to the Yellowhead arena floor.

Security staff person injured at HyLife Christmas party At the annual HyLife Christmas party, on Dec.14 at Neepawa’s Yellowhead Centre, an incident took pl a c e. S pr uc e P l a i n s RCMP Sgt. Mark Morehouse said, “A fight broke out and a Paladin security person was injured and taken to hospital. He suffered a broken arm. One

person has been arrested and then later released under a condition of a Promise to Appear at a court date.”

According to reports at the event, it was a very good event, with a meal for 600 employees. While HyLife has over 1,400 employees at Neepawa, the party is limited to the first 600 who sign up due to the capacity of the Yellowhead Hall.

If you’re not reading

Banner & Press

neepawa

By Ken Waddell Neepawa Banner & Press

you’re missing out on a lot!

NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019 11

Prenatal courses no longer BPCU lends a hand to be offered to provide toys for Christmas

By Kate Jackman-Atkinson Neepawa Banner & Press Starting next year, expectant parents in the Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) region will have one less way to learn about healthy pregnancy, delivery and infant care. The RHA has decided to discontinue general group prenatal courses across the region. Previously, about four general group classes were held in Neepawa by the Public Health Office.

The day-long courses provided information about healthy pregnancy, fetal development, labour and delivery, lactation, infant care and post-partum life. Depending on the location, parents could see delivery rooms and test out techniques that could be helpful during labour.

With the discontinuation of the course, Jan Loe, Director, Public Health, Prairie

Mountain Health, said families are encouraged to meet with their local Public Health Nurse to identify the most appropriate resources and supports to meet the family’s needs. Expectant parents can also attend the Healthy Baby meetings, which in Neepawa, are held monthly at both the Neepawa Public Library and Neepawa Settlement Services.

Additionally, the spokesperson said there are resources available through the PMH website, including a link to Baby’s Best Chance, a Canadian parental handbook which was given out during prenatal courses. For parents expecting to deliver in Brandon Regional Health Centre, there is a 20 minute video offering a virtual tour of the Mother Baby Unit.

The video also includes general prenatal information, useful to those not planning to deliver in Brandon. The spokesperson said virtual tours for the delivery rooms in Neepawa and Dauphin are in development. Finally, the PMH site also has links to parenting resources from the Winnipeg Health Authority and provincial government.

Loe said the decision to discontinue group courses wasn’t related to lack of participation, but by a change in how the service is delivered.

He added that they want to provide more personalized assessments that better meet individual and family needs.

Anyone looking for prenatal education can contact the Neepawa Public Health office, at 204-476-7832. A referral from a health care provider isn’t required.

PHOTO BY KATE JACKMAN-ATKINSON

Neepawa’s Beautiful Plains Credit Union (BPCU) lent a helping hand to the local branch of the Salvation Army, the Neepawa Community Ministries Centre, on Dec. 11. BPCU staff saw the organization’s call for toys for the Christmas hamper program and made a cash donation to enable the charity to purchase the most needed types of toys. “Neepawa always comes through,” said Amanda NaughtonGale (right) of the donation. The cheque was presented by BPCU’s Gord Gilbertson.

NCMC packs up Christmas cheer

PHOTOS BY KIRA PATERSON

The Salvation Army Neepawa Community Ministries Centre (NCMC) started packing up some Christmas cheer on Monday, Dec. 16. Every year, the NCMC packs and delivers Christmas hampers to those who need them. That day, volunteers were selecting toys for children ages 12 and under. Kids 13 and above receive gift cards. On Wednesday, deliveries were made by volunteers throughout the day. This year, 127 families are being helped, 117 of those families are receiving hampers made by NCMC, while 10 of the families were adopted by community members. Families received gift cards this year for local grocery stores for the amount of what the NCMC would normally spend on fresh food for the hampers, so they can buy what they would like to have for dinner.

Pictured left: NCMC volunteers ponder what gifts to put into the hampers they are packing.

Pictured above: Lots of donations for food and toys came in from the public to help support the Christmas hampers this year.

Please note our early holiday deadlines: December 27 paper:

Deadline: 12 noon 12 noon Tuesday, December 17 Highway 16, 153 Main Street West | Neepawa, Manitoba | R0J 1H0 P: (204) 476.2355 | F: (204) 476.3845 | E: westway@mts.net

Toll Free 1.800.448.0994

www.westwayinnneepawa.com

January 3 paper:

Deadline: 12 noon 12 noon Monday, December 30

12 NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019

Christmas on Ice in Neepawa

PHOTOS BY CASSANDRA WEHRHAHN

Neepawa’s Yellowhead Arena was home to the Neepawa Figure Skating Club’s annual Christmas on Ice performance on Dec. 15, starting at 4:45 p.m.

Performances were given by a total of 29 groups and individuals of various ages.

Pictured above: Seventh on the ice was Makenna Sumner. After sticking a landing, Sumner glides gracefully backwards on the ice.

Top photo: The CanSkate group took to the ice for the sixth performance, featuring some frosty fun with Frosty the Snowman and the winter hokey pokey.

Helpers accompanied the little tikes out on the ice, providing assistance if needed.

Pictured above, one of the CanSkaters takes a moment to have a delightful chat with Frosty! The CanSkate group was followed up by Ivory Gerring.

Bottom left: Ivory Gerring, who launched into the air for a jump, comes in for a landing. Bottom right: She sticks it! Gerring flashes a smile at the successful landing and continues on her way, preparing for the next jump.

WINTER

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Sports

DECEMBER 20, 2019

MJHL Standings

(To Tuesday, Dec. 17)

Team

1. Steinbach Pistons 2. Portage Terriers 3. Swan Valley Stampeders 4. Wayway Woverines 5. Winkler Flyers 6. Dauphin Kings 7. Virden Oil Capitals 8. Selkirk Steelers 9. Winnipeg Blues 10. OCN Blizzard 11. Neepawa Natives

G W

32 32 35 37 32 34 34

36 34 33 33

Game results Friday, Dec. 13

OCN 4-3 SO Neepawa

First period - No scoring Second Period 01:56 OCN Commanda-Odjick (4) ASST: Crane (2), Blight (1) 05:07 OCN Tivers (4) ASST: Mozdzen (7), Butler (9) 06:39 OCN Commanda-Odjick (5) ASST: Crane (3), Blight (2) 10:03 NEEP Lieffers (13) ASST: Lapointe (9), Marshall (4) Third Period 01:01 NEEP Malchuk (4) ASST: Marshall (5) 08:02 NEEP Gudnason (7) ASST: Mowbray (8), Connor Smith (2) Overtime - No scoring Shootout - NEEP: Lapointe - No goal; Ethan Smith - No goal; Malchuk - No goal. OCN: Thiessen - Goal; Pashe - No goal.

Scoring 1 2 3 OT SO Total PP OCN 0 3 0 0 1 3 0/6 NEEPAWA 0 1 2 0 0 4 0/5 Goaltenders NEEP- Green 40/42 saves (L), OCN - Rodrigue 23/26 saves (W) Attendance: 325 at GLM Centre

Saturday, Dec. 14

Neepawa 4-3 OT OCN

First period 07:33 NEEP Highet (8) ASST: Connor Smith (3) PP 08:15 NEEP Gudnason (5) ASST: Mowbray (9), Bremner (9) Second Period 18:06 NEEP Carlson (5) ASST: Morrison (10), Bremner (10) PP Third Period 05:19 OCN Swan (6) ASST: Toth (1), Commanda-Odjick (10) 05:54 OCN Mozdzen (5) ASST: Blight (3), Gisti (10) PP 19:01 OCN Willits (3) ASST: Bird (16), Pashe (5) Overtime 02:16 NEEP Mariash (1) ASST: Marshall (6) Scoring 1 2 3 OT Total PP OCN 0 0 3 0 3 2/5 NEEPAWA 2 1 0 1 4 1/4 Goaltenders NEEP- Davis 38/41 saves (W), OCN - Cloutier 29/33 saves (L) Attendance: 214 at GLM Centre

Club 55 Bowling Dec. 13: Ladies’ High Single: Gail McGregor 222. Ladies’ High Triple: Bev Chapski 514.

Men’s High Single & Triple: Len Pritchard 276 & 670. Other Scores to Note: Janice Abstreiter 213; Frank Porada 155, 228; Jim King 177, 185, 159; Pauline Hailstone 188, 163; Bob Lychak 163, 201; Darrell Gabler 191, 192; Carole LeBoutillier 188; Mlevin Oswald 152, 186; Bev Chapski 187, 180; Marion Single 172; Phyllis Mauthe 159; Gail McGregor 158; Doreen Smith 205; Liz Lychak 154; Barb Grumpelt 199, 153; Len Pritchard 165, 229; Don Denoon 181, 214; Lawrence Smith 181; Muriel Porada 155, 186; Doug Pettigrew 150, 262, 195. December Bowlers of the Month: Janice Absteiter & Doug Pettigrew.

24 23 22 21 19 16 16 15 13 11 6

L OT/SO PF

6 8 10 12 9 13 14

19 19 19 24

2 1 3 4 4 5 4

115 127 131 133 131 129 136

2 2 3 3

114 109 88 78

PA Pts

79 86 102 124 110 128 128

135 135 124 140

50 47 47 46 42 37 36

32 28 24 15

Points G 1. Nakodan Greyeyes (Daup) 17 2. Grady Hobbs (Daup) 22 3. Kolten Kanaski (Vdn) 19 4. Hunter Cloutier (Vdn) 21 Leading scorers (MJHL)

5. Mikol Sartor (Wpg)

Pts

50 46 44 43

16 27 43 G A Pts

Leading scorers (Natives)

1. Eli Lieffers 2. Parker Malchuk 3. Bradley Marshall Goaltenders 1. M. Lenz (Stein)

A 33 24 25 22

13 19 32 4 11 15 8 6 14 W 16

L SV% GAA 3 0.924 2.11

2. M. Foucher (Swan) 13

7 0.918 2.52

4. L. Tereposky (Way) 7

2 0.893 2.72

3. N. Moore (Port)

15

5. T. Phinney (Way)

6 0.884 2.89

13 11 0.887 3.17

Tiger Hills Hockey East G W 1. MacGregor 11 7 2. Cartwright 11 6 3. Neepawa 9 4

L ETL Pts 4 0 14 5 0 12 5 0 8

5. Gladstone 9 3 6. Pilot Mound 10 2

6 7

4. Minnedosa

West 1. Boissevain 2. Hartney 3. Killarney 4. Wawanesa 5. Souris 6. Deloraine 7. Melita

9 4

G 11 11 10 10 10 10 13

5

0 0 1

8 6 5

W L ETL Pts 11 0 0 22 8 2 1 17 8 2 0 16 5 4 1 11 5 5 0 10 3 6 1 7 1 12 0 2

ETL refers to extra time losses (Overtime and shootout losses)

THHL scoring Leading scorers (THHL) 1. Devon LeBlanc (Bois) 2. Rylee Zimmer (Bois) 3. Matt Varnes (MacG) 4. Zeanan Ziemer (Bois) 5. Tyler Dittmer (Bois)

G 22 14 14 10 12

A 24 30 14 14 10

Pts

46 44 28 24 22

Neepawa Farmers scorers G

A Pts

Matt Lowry Lance Nugent Bret Levandoski

4 6 6

8 5 3

12 11 9

NFBL Results Saturday, Dec. 14

Lakay vs. Cagayan Amigos Final score unavailable at publication deadline

Chuters 69-48 IWC Leading scorers Salvo & Yang 12 pts Mba Kings 89-70 Aces Leading scorer - Popoff 25pts Bisdak Jr. 76-67 Uprising Leading scorers - Lecaros & Belarmino 13 pts Dumaguete 58-55 Bulldogs Leading scorer - Reeds 15 pts

Sunday, Dec. 15

Another tough week for the NACI Tigers

By Eoin Devereux

Neepawa Banner & Press

It was early in the second period when the proverbial wheels fell off the wagon for the NACI Tigers in their game against the Glenboro/Carberr y/Baldur Wildcats. GCB scored three goals in a 2:32 span in the middle frame, enabling them to cruise to a 7-2 win at the Yellowhead Arena on Wednesday, Dec. 11. While the very worst of it occurred early in the second, the Wildcats’ win was inevitable, as they simply proved to be too much to handle throughout the entire course of the game.

The night started off well for the Wildcats, as they scored just 4:42 into the first period. Ethan Bjarnason put the puck in the back of the net.

In the second, GCB took control early, with Trey Sattler scoring twice and Braden Stevens adding one more. That made it 4-0 for the Wildcats. Neepawa’s Ayden Atkey got one back with 14:27 left in the second, with Konur

PHOTO BY EOIN DEVEREUX

Trey Sattler (#16) of the GCB Wildcats attempts to deflect the puck in front of NACI Tigers goaltender Myles Brister #33).

Gork assisting on the play.

Less than a minute later, however, Bayley Creasy reclaimed the four goal cushion for GCB on an even strength effort.

Bjarnason and Creasy would both score a second time on the night in the third period, making it 7-1 for the visiting Wildcats.

Gork would score for the Tigers, but that would be it, as the final would be 7-2.

The victory improved

By Eoin Devereux

Neepawa Banner & Press

A pair of goals and an assist from Ryan Howatt helped to lift the Killarney Shamrocks to a 4-1 win over the Neepawa Farmers on Saturday, Dec. 14. To go along with Howatt’s two goal night, Wade Thompson and Jesse Bernard also scored for the Shamrocks.

Matt Lowry notched the lone goal for Neepawa, with an assist from Clarke Rempel. The win improved Killarney’s regular season record to 8-2-0, while Neepawa has now dropped to 4-5-0.

Minnedosa win in overtime A huge third period effort propelled the Minnedosa Bombers to a 6-5 overtime win on Dec. 14, over the Pilot Mound Pilots. The Bombers found themselves trailing 5-3 going into the final 20 minutes of regulation. Goals by Brad Lewis and Clay Bergeson, however, would send the game in OT. In this extra session, James McCarville collected the game winner, at the 3:35 mark. Derek Cameron, Michael Birch and Matt Saler scored the other goals for the Bombers. This win lifted Minnedosa’s record

Shipping Jr. 78-69 Dumaguete Boys Leading scorer - Sarmiento 22 pts

Junior “A”

Cavitenio 74-47 Gladstone Leading scorer - Myles Boyce 12 pts

Bears bruise Tigers The NACI Tigers followed up their defeat to GCB, with a game on Sunday, Dec. 15 versus the Virden Golden Bears (10-2-0). In this showdown, Virden was able to hold off a strong effort from NACI, to claim a 6-4 victory. Shane Byram scored a pair for

Neepawa, while Tristen Boersma and Cody Lamb added singles. This latest loss dropped the Tigers’ regular season record to 1-9-0; good enough for fifth place the Westman High School Hockey League’s Eastern Division. NACI will play one last game before the end of the year, a game in Dauphin against the Clippers (10-0-0) on Friday, Dec. 20.

Tiger Hills Hockey League update

Neepawa Natives

Orangon vs. Bisdak Sr. Leading scorer - Maparate 19 pts

GCB’s regular season record to 7-2-2, while Neepawa dropped to 1-8-0.

Neepawa Farmers fall to Killarney

Virden 64-61 Mustangs Leading scorer - Dusty 15 pts

Cagayan Amigos 83-70 Shipping Sr. Leading scorer - Mc Als 19 pts

NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS 13

Hockey team Neepawa Natives home games Dec 21 at 7:30 vs Virden • Jan 5 at 6:30 vs Steinbach Jan 8 at 7:30 vs Selkirk • Jan 10 at 7:30 vs OCN

to 4-5-0, tying them with Neepawa for third place in the Tiger Hills Hockey League’s Eastern Division.

Gladstone fall to Souris A closely contested matchup with the Souris Elks did not fall in favour of the Gladstone Lakers

on Friday, Dec. 13, as they were defeated 4-3. A goal from Brett Locke at the the mid-point of the third period secured the win for the Elks. Drew Selin, Cody Yeroschak and Jesse Toth all scored for the Lakers, who with this loss dropped to 3-6-0 on the year.

Attention coaches, parents and supporters!

The Banner & Press needs your help to highlight our figure skaters and gymnasts! Send us your competition photos and results to be included in our sports section!

Anything from Neepawa, Minnedosa, Gladstone, Carberry and elsewhere around the region is appreciated.

Send submissions to sports@neepawabanner.com

Sports

14 NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2019

Air Chidi

Natives’ northern trip a worthwhile one Neepawa earns three of a possible four points against OCN Blizzard

By Eoin Devereux

Neepawa Banner & Press

A recent road trip up to the great white north proved to be worth it for the Neepawa Natives. The team played a pair of games over the weekend at the Opaskwayak Cree Nation reserve, near The Pas, against the OCN Blizzard. Those games turned out to be mirror images of themselves, with OCN winning the first 4-3 in a shootout, while Neepawa claimed the second in overtime by that identical 4-3 score.

The first game was played on Friday, Dec. 13 at the Gordon Lathlin Memorial Centre, and was OCN’s annual teddy bear toss game. The fans ended up having to wait in order to let fly with the bears, however, as Neepawa kept the Blizzard offense locked down in the first period.

Early in the second, however, Tobias Commanda-Odjick scored, allowing the Blizzard faithful to start raining bears down upon the ice. After a quick clean-up, OCN put away their second goal of the night at 5:07. Only 92 seconds later, OCN made it 3-0 with a second goal from Commanda-Odjick.

Neepawa would slowly creep back into the game, with an Eli Lieffers goal at the mid-way point of the second.

That was his 13th goal of the year.

For the third period, Parker Malchuk netted his fourth goal of the year, making it 3-2. The comeback was completed at 8:02, with a Rylan Gudnason goal for the visiting Natives. That’s exactly how it would remain at the end of regulation.

Overtime ended up solving nothing, so the game went to a shootout. From there, it didn’t take long for OCN to close it out, as Levi Thiessen scored on the first Blizzard attempt. Neepawa’s three selected shooters couldn’t get any past goaltender Danick Rodrigue to make the final score 4-3 OCN. The next night played out almost exactly the same way, but with Neepawa being the aggressor early. Will Highet and Rylan Gudnason scored in the first for the Natives, while Konnor Carlson added another early in the second to make it 3-0.

Neepawa nearly gave it all away in the third, however, as OCN scored three straight, including one with just 59 seconds left in regulation. Fortunately, Corbin Mariash would put an end to the night, with his first goal of the year, just 2:16 into overtime.

That would make the final score 4-3 for the Natives.

With these most recent results, Neepawa has improved its regular season record to 6-24-1-2.

In the team’s six most recent games, however, they have carved out an impressive 3-1-2 record and tallied eight of a possible 12 points.

Neepawa closes out 2019 with three games. First was a showdown with the Steinbach Pistons on Wednesday, Dec. 18. That game concluded after the Banner & Press publication deadline. The other games see Neepawa travel to Virden on Dec. 19 to play the Oil Capitals. Those two teams will meet again on Saturday, Dec. 21, this time at the Yellowhead Arena. Start time for that contest is set for 7:30 pm.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANIL CABLINDA

Chidi Small (#7) jumps toward the basket for a layup, during a NFBL game on Saturday, Dec. 14. Small and his team, the Manitoba Kings, won this game over the Aces 89-70.

A walk down memory lane...

A

Did you guess right?

Our Banner & Press employees decided for the 2019 Neepawa Banner & Press Christmas edition that they wanted to share some childhood (and teenage) Christmas memories and were wondering if our readers can guess who is who! Did you guess right?

B

C

John Drinkwater

H

D

Chris Waddell

I

Kira Paterson

E

Eoin Devereux

J

Gloria Kerluke

F

Diane Warner

K

Berni Myker

Shannon Robertson

Kay De’Ath

G

Sandra Unger

L

Cassandra Wehrhahn

Ken Waddell

M

Kate Jackman-Atkinson

Carberry Country Blend retires after Carberry Winter Concert 15 years of entertaining fills Cougardome DECEMBER 20, 2019

NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS 15

By Gladwyn Scott Neepawa Banner & Press

Carberry Collegiate music program, under the direction of Justin Burke, performed their winter Concert in the Cougardome before a capacity crowd Wednesday, Dec. 11.

The 15 member Jazz Band performed four entertaining numbers, with soloists Mathew Salyn, Abbi Bird, Celia Boganes, Broddy Zanders, Jayme Paddock and Broni Manns.

The Grade 7 group played Power Rock and Beethoven's Ninth, while the Grade 8s performed Rocky Mountain Camp,

Stonegate Overture and Riverband Rhapsody.

Grade 9 soloists were Mia Lorinski, Mallory Lockhart, Rebecca Bird and Tynille Steen, as the band entertained with Joyeus Noel, Maelstrom, Village Dance and ‘Twas in the Moon of Wintertime.

The senior band concluded the evening with The Curse of Tutankhamun, Greenwillow Portrait (soloist Jayde Nakonechny), Metamorphosis, Christmas Star, Somewhere in My Memory.

Mrs. Burke confirmed that six of the students had been selected for the Westman Honour Band performance and workshop at Brandon University in early February.

Local dancer competes nationally

SUBMITTED PHOTO

From left: Henry Martens, Diane Lodge, Cyn Lodge (all of Baldur), Evelyn Ramage (Manitou), Gord “Crazy Fingers” Lindquist (Bottineau). Crazy Fingers is a renowned pianist, entertainer and retired music professor.

By Gladwyn Scott Neepawa Banner & Press Country Blend played their final two concerts at 2:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 10 at Belmont Hall. More than 350 people, including several

from Carberry and Neepawa, enjoyed their country, gospel and Christmas music program. Most of the crowd enjoyed a delicious chicken supper at 5:00 p.m.

The Baldur based quintet completed 15 years of entertainment from coast

to coast in Canada. Two of their supportive fans from Dryden, ON and Tisdale, SK were present to congratulate the group on their final performances. Three of the Country Blend play in Fugitives dance band.

Wildcats win two

By Gladwyn Scott Neepawa Banner & Press Glenboro - Ca rber r yBaldur won two Westman League games this week.

They visit Wawanesa for the Christmas Classic Dec. 20 and travel to Boissevain Jan. 3 before hosting Sandy Bay-Gladstone Badgers (10-0) in Glenboro Jan. 10.

At the Yellowhead Centre, the GCB guys defeated Neepawa Tigers 7-2 Wednesday, Dec. 11.

In a closely contested game at Glenboro Saturday, Dec. 14, the Wildcats edged Minnedosa-Erickson Chancellors 3-1. Ethan Bjarnason fired the lone goal of the first period with help from Kylan Aitken and Talen Graham. Tyson Sholdue scored the only second frame marker with assists to Josh Hiskel and Deegan Campbell.

Carter Hedley spoiled goalie Carson Mooney’s shutout bid with 8:20 left in

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the game. Bayley Creasy's empty netter in the last minute ended the scoring.

The Wildcats drew four of six minors.

Happy New Year to Korey Forbes, Wildcats head coach, who is in his 19th season at the helm.

Dedication plus from the players and parents.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Left: Gareth Nikolaison with his Irish Dance medals.

Above: Nikolaison with his team at the Canadian Open.

By Gladwyn Scott Neepawa Banner & Press Gareth Nikolaison participated in the Canadian Open Championship for Irish Dancing in Winnipeg Nov. 30. He earned several

TAYLOR LAW OFFICE

269 Hamilton Street

medals for his competitive solo dances and qualified for National Championships at Minneapolis, MN next year.

He dances with the Brandon division of McConnell School Irish Dance out of Winnipeg.

$10 Bonus Card with $50 in store gift card purchase Available until Dec. 29, 2019

Bonus card valid until March 31, 2020, excluding February 14, 2020

Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0 Charles D. Taylor B.A., LLB.

Charles D. Taylor B.A., LLB. Michael J. Davids, B.A., LLB. Michael J. Davids, B.A., LLB. Sarah J. Fast, B. Comm.

J.D. PH: (Hons), 476-2336

204-476-2336

Attention coaches, parents and supporters!

The Banner & Press needs your help to highlight our minor hockey teams!

Send us your game photos and results to be included in our sports section!

Anything from Neepawa, Minnedosa, Gladstone and elsewhere around the region is appreciated.

Send submissions to sports@neepawabanner.com

And don't forget to join us for Pasta Tuesday!

Gourmet and Create Your Own from $8.99

500 PTH #5, Neepawa, MB For Take Out or Delivery call:

204-704-5000

16 NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019

Classifieds Obituary Fay Thom (nee Bent)

January 12, 1932 – December 10, 2019 Survived by her husband of 65 years, Ken Thom; daughters Allison (Terry Renner) and Lilis Hall; and granddaughter Madalyn Hall. She will be greatly missed.

Condolences may be sent at www.firstmemorialduncan.com

Coming Events

Christmas Eve Candle Light Service December 24, 2019 7-8 p.m.

Christmas Eve Service at Christ Lutheran, 375 Broadway Ave., Neepawa, Dec. 24 at 5 p.m. with Pastor Mark Smith. _____________________ Minnedosa Adult Learning Centre’s regular classes start Monday January 6th.

The computer classes start the week of January 13th.

Call Val Gawel at 204-8672519 or drop by 131 Main St. South.

–––––––––– Notice

Alcoholics Anonymous meets at the Neepawa Hospital boardroom (downstairs), Thursdays, 7:30 pm _____________________ Arden Hall, cap. 255. Park, camping and sports facilities, rink, curling ice, kitchen and lounge. Call 204-368-2202 _____________________ Drug problem? Narcotics Anonymous can help. Meetings on Sat at 7 p.m. and Tues at 7 p.m. at Calvary Chapel, 221 Hamilton St. Neepawa

In Memory Ken McKee

April 5, 1936 – Dec. 23, 2017 Although it's been 2 years It feels like yesterday when we laughed and talked together You will always be missed, but never forgotten.

Love your family In memory of our Brother, and our Dad, Ronald (Ron) Keith McCaskill who left us 5 years ago on December 22, 2014.

There will always be this heartache and then a silent tear, We shall cherish those pleasant memories of the days when you were here.

Remembering you is easy, we do it every day.

Missing you is a heartache that never goes away.

Forever loved, families of Murray, Glenda, Lynnette, Judy, Marlin and Ron’s children Stetson & Lacie.

Thank You

SINCE 2008

Plumas Game & Fish Association

would like to thank all the businesses who participated in our awards night.

The evening was a success and we look forward to gathering together again next year!

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MAJOR APPLIANCE and TV Service in home. Call or text 476-4077

–––––––––– For Rent

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Farm land for sale Plumas area. 160 acres, SW 13-1612. Call 204-841-4148

––––––––––

For Sale or Rent

Storage vans (semi trailers) for rent or sale. Anderson’s 204-385-2685, 204-3852997 Gladstone.

Financial

McSherry Auction 12 Patterson Dr., Stonewall, MB

Seasons Greetings & All The Best in 2020 From Stuart & Staff @ McSherry Auction

Sat Jan 11th & Sat Jan 18th @ 10 AM Yard * Recreation * Tools * Misc Antiques * Furniture * Household

Consignments Welcome!

(204) 467-1858 or (204) 886-7027 www.mcsherryauction.com

CAI Financial Unit K - 2151 Portage Ave. Winnipeg MB

www.caifinancial.ca

Health

204-476-3401/ 888-436-4242 204-476-5073 ads@neepawabanner.com

All word classifieds must be prepaid before printing

–––––––––– Vehicles

Budget Tire Co. We buy and sell good used tires.

726-8199, Brandon

––––––––––

Help Wanted

The Minnedosa Senior Citizens Association is needing an activity co-ordinator starting January 6, 2020. The job will require 9 hours per week with a wage of $500.00 per month. The employee must have computer experience, be able to work on their own and have good people skills. Resumes must be received by December 27, 2019. They can be mailed to Box 1002, Minnedosa, MB, or to mdsasca@gmail. com or dropped off at the 50+ Senior Centre. _____________________ We are looking for 8 experienced (2-3yrs.), seasonal applicants to work on a bee farm as an Apiary Technician in Neepawa, MB. 2 applicants from March 16 to October 16, 2020, 5 applicants from April 15 to Oct 16, 2020 & 1 applicant from April 15 to Nov 16, 2020. Must be able to work full time, including evenings & weekends. Duties include: unwrapping/wrapping, queen rearing, making nucs, feeding, medicating, supering, pulling honey, extracting crop, maintain/ assemble equipment, etc.

Positions are physically demanding and must be able to handle heavy loads, work in a fast- paced environment with a combination of walking, standing, bending, crouching and kneeling for extended periods. Positions are mostly outdoors when hot & dusty, wet /damp. $14-17/hr for 40-65 hours/week. Benefits include: Workers comp. & vacation pay. Please mail resume to: Grysiuk Honey Farms Ltd., 30 Granada Cr., Wpg, MB. R2Y 0P8

Need Cash?

Call Dan Devloo (204) 526-7093

Auction Sales

Telephone: Fax: Email:

Announcement

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Estate & Moving

Discover it in the classifieds!

Meyers Auctions & Appraisals. Call Brad at 368-2333. www.meyersauctions.com

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Built with Concrete Posts Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and More

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Everyone Welcome

Crisis Pregnancy Centre Winnipeg: Need to talk? Call our free help line, 1-800-6650570 or contact our Westman office: 204-727-6161

For Sale Integrity Post Frame Buildings

Thank You!

–––––––––– Personal

Apartment for rent. Bri-Mont apartments, 331 Mountain Avenue. Phone 204-2125014 _____________________ Large apartment for up to 4 people. Available immediately. Text or leave message 204-476-0263. _____________________ TRAILER RENTALS: cargo, dump, equipment, auto, livestock/horse. FORK LIFT TELEPORT 729-8989

In Loving Memory of

First Baptist Church

Thank you for reading the Neepawa Banner & Press!

To place an ad:

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• Cancellations and corrections only within business hours and corresponding deadlines • Please check your ad when first published the Neepawa Banner & Press will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion.

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–––––––––– Coming Events

WEBB

Burton Lee, beloved husband of Jean, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 6, 2019 at his home, surrounded by family.

He was predeceased by his mother May and father Cecil. Burton is survived by his beloved wife Jean; children Jim (Tanya), Mark (Ellen), David, Susan (Eric) and Glen; grandchildren Nicole (Mike), Taylor, Danielle, Carter, Hunter, Landon, Megan, Alycia (Tyler), Michael (Chelsey); great grandchildren Charles, Lincoln, Benson, Chloe, Abby, Evelyn and Xaria; and sister Phylis and brother-in-law Eugene, as well as nieces and nephews. Burton was born on October 5, 1934 in Souris, Manitoba. The family moved to Brandon, where Burton completed his schooling. His love for aviation led him to obtaining his private pilot’s license at the young age of 16 years. After a brief stint in the bank and air traffic control industries, Burton’s desire to help people led him to Palmer Chiropractor College in Davenport, Iowa. After graduation, most of his early years as a chiropractor were spent in Neepawa, where he met his wife, Jean. They married in 1965 and enjoyed the early years of their marriage in Neepawa. In 1972, upon his father’s retirement, Burton moved the family to Brandon, where he continued practicing. He retired from Chiropractic in 1996. Who would have guessed that in retirement he would get to experience the life of a long haul trucker with his son David; often commenting on the beautiful scenery and vastness of North America. Burton loved to travel, and the first big family trip was to Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Other vacations would follow, to Hawaii, Scotland, England, Alaska, a few trips out west that included Expo ’86, and the badlands of South Dakota. The outdoors were also important to Burton and he took his family on various camping trips, hikes and cross country skiing adventures. Burton also loved to collect stamps, which explained his interest in history, and puzzles were always at hand. However, his greatest love and interest was always in family.

“Till we meet again” The Celebration of Burton’s Life was held at Memories Chapel, Brandon on Friday, December 20, 2019 with interment at Brandon Cemetery. Donations in memory of Burton may be made to the Salvation Army, 9 Princess Avenue East, Brandon, MB R7A 1R8 or Samaritan House Ministries Inc., 820 Pacific Avenue, Brandon, MB R7A 0J1. Expressions of sympathy may be made at www. memorieschapel.com. Arrangements with Memories Chapel, Brandon 1-855-727-0330.

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FOODS Meat Cutters/Production Personnel Our people, perseverance, integrity, and exceptional partnerships have led HyLife to becoming Canada’s leading pork producer and global exporter of high quality pork products. The growing demand for our pork in Japan and China means we need exceptional people to help deliver our company vision. We have expanded our Neepawa facility to increase our overall production by 15% and in turn created new jobs throughout the company.

As a Meat Cutter/Production Personnel you will be a critical member of our team in the creation of our world class product. Our positions range from working on our slaughter production floor to shipping the final packaged product, with everything in between! With our wide variety of jobs, excellent people, and our drive for innovation you will certainly find a job that suits you!

Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to: • Slaughter and eviscerate hogs for further processing • Harvest and package edible offal • Process pork carcasses into primal cuts • Butcher and package pork primal cuts into value added specifications for local, national and international premium markets • Carry out other tasks related to processing of meat for shipping to customers or storage • Sanitation People who will succeed as members of our team will: • Enjoy working in a fast paced, stable long term work environment • Appreciate working in a culturally diverse workplace. We employ people from all over the world!

• Treat people with dignity and respect • Open to working in colder/warmer environments • Physically Fit • Experience as an industrial butcher or trimmer is an asset

Current starting wage is $14.85/hour plus $1.00 per hour perfect attendance incentive!

Wage scale extends to $22.10 per hour We believe that our success is founded on the strength of our team.

As such, we place a great deal of emphasis on attracting, developing and retaining good people, and consider every one of our employees to be a highly-valued member of the HyLife family. To that end, we are committed to providing a working environment that not only fosters personal growth, but also recognizes our employees’ contributions towards the common goal of our company’s success because of this HyLife has been recognized as a Platinum Member of Canada’s Best-Managed Companies.

If you have the qualifications and the passion to meet this challenge then we would like to explore your potential.

Please apply online at http://hylife.com/current-opportunities/ or email to jobs@hylife.com or mail to PO Box 10,000, 623 Main St E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0.

We thank all applicants, however, only those under consideration will be contacted

NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019 17

‘I want to wish everyone a happy holiday season’

Continued from page 5 Another year has gone by and the provincial study on school taxes is in progress. It is hoped that this tax burden will soon be removed from farmers.

We are pleased to see the fire hall expansion for the Carberry North Cypress Langford (CNCL) Fire Department proceeding and are hoping for occupation early in the coming year. Receiving impressive grant dollars and public donations, the CNCL fire department has truly taken a lead role in this project and we owe them a great deal of thanks. Neepawa opened a new fire hall in the fall, which is welcome news for their department. Fire protection is very important and we are fortunate to have excellent crews at both ends of our municipality.

With the unfortunate news that the

Carberry News Express in closing this month, Council is exploring many other avenues of communication in order to keep our rate payers informed.

In 2019, the local RCMP held rural crime meetings in Carberry and Brookdale. These two events were well received and attended.

The detachment is planning to hold another one in early 2020 in Brookdale.

Once again, the council would like to thank all of the volunteers that are working on the various boards for their time and commitment. These committees require a lot of dedication and effort and council appreciates everything that is done. These members save council a lot of time and we greatly value what you bring to the citizens of the municipality.

With all of the challenges we have faced this year, I would very much like to thank

the members of the municipal council for their dedication and perseverance in working toward resolutions.

There is a by-election being organized for Ward 3 in January. Please consider getting involved, as it is at the municipal government level that tax payers can affect change and see it happen.

As always, please feel comfortable contacting any council members or staff with your comments, questions and concerns.

On behalf of the municipal council and staff, I want to wish everyone a happy holiday season as well as a safe and prosperous New Year.

Bob Adriaansen Reeve, Municipality of North Cypress Langford

Have lots of opinions?

Submit a letter to the Neepawa Banner & Press to get your thoughts published on this page for everyone to see!

In person: 243 Hamilton St. Neepawa By fax: 204-476-5073 By email: news@neepawabanner.com

Please check your ad when first published— The Banner & Press will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion

Manitoba Community Newspaper Association Province-wide Classifieds make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.mcna.com.

Do you have a PRESS RELEASE /

MEDIA ADVISORY that needs to go out? Let us help you with that! Though we cannot guarantee publication, MCNA will get the information into the right hands for ONLY $35.00 + GST/HST. Call MCNA (204) 947-1691 for more information, or email classified@mcna.com for details. www.mcna.com

FOR SALE BATTERIES FOR EVERYTHING. Automotive, farm, construction, ATV, marine, motorcycle, golf carts, phones, tools, radios, computers etc. Reconditioned, obsolete and hard-to-find batteries. SOLAR equipment. The Battery Man. Winnipeg.

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SALES – FINANCING – LEASING of Trucks, Truckbeds, Trailers, full repair and safeties. Vehicle Parts, Tires & Wheels, Vehicle & Trailer Parts & Batteries. Best Products - Best Prices!

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your area and across Manitoba. Catch them looking at YOUR material in our 48 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call this newspaper to BOOK NOW or email classified@mcna.com for details. MCNA (204) 947-1691.

SERVICES GUIDE Construction

Plumbing

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Ventures Inc.

Garbage Bin Rentals Roll Off Bins We buy Scrap!

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Construction

Contact Pat Baker at 204-476-0712 p.baker@wcgwave.ca

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Please check your ad when first published— The Banner will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion

18 NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019

Telling a Christmas story

PHOTO BY JOHN DRINKWATER

On Wednesday, Dec.11, attendees were treated to a delightful reading by Dr. James Comrie at the family farm near Minnedosa.

neepawa

Banner & Press

Along for the ride

PHOTO BY JOHN DRINKWATER

Hayrides were included in the Minnedosa Santa Day, held on Saturday, Dec. 7.

Real Estate

This week’s feature listing

Do you have listings to sell?

Advertise them with the Banner & Press to get them seen!

The Banner & Press is read in over 8,000 homes. These people could be seeing your listings!

To book an ad, contact us at: 204-476-3401 or ads@neepawabanner.com SUBMITTED PHOTO

Gill & Schmall Agencies

This week’s feature listing is located on 270 A Main St. East, in Neepawa. This 66x100 serviced lot has back lane access and is zoned RR2 multiple family residential. It is ideal for a duplex or two storey four-plex. Purchase now for spring construction!

(MLS#1931776)

Prairie Mountain 204.476.2287 272 Hamilton St. Neepawa remax-prairiemountain-npwa-mb.com EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

MLS# 1932606

Here is a wonderful opportunity for someone looking to own their own thriving business.

The Plumas Inn has great ratings and is a community-minded Restaurant, Lounge, Beer Vendor and Inn, serving the town of Plumas and the surrounding farming community.

MLS# 1909961

Are you looking for recreational, development land, or pasture/hay land near Clear Lake? These two beautiful fenced quarters are situated on Octopus Lake. There is a dugout on each quarter.

Diane Martin 204-841-0932

REDUCED

Lesley Skibinsky 204-476-6999

Kristy Sprik

204-212-4892

Rosemary Parrott

509 Saskatchewan Ave, Arden.

MLS#1923246, $139,900.

1165 sf home located in nice quiet community. Large yard, dbl det. garage.

122137 Hwy#5, McCreary. MB. MLS#1923388, $203,000 Excellent family home on 13 acres!

1596 sf bungalow, 3 bdrms, 2 bath.

204-212-5037

NEW LISTING

MLS# 1916368

Glenella. Only $66,500. This 3 bed 2 bath home has a newer preserved wood foundation with high ceilings & perimeter insulated with great potential for further development. Att. garage with new door.

Quick possession possible.

MLS# 1916972

Birnie. Gorgeous 4 bdrm., 2 bath character home with bonus recently finished attic for additional living space. Double garage and large lot with garden space. Would make a great B&B. Quick possession possible.

Liz Sumner 204-476-6362

MLS# 1926338

This 3 Bedroom home has had extensive renovations inside! Beautiful Quartz countertops in the kitchen, heating, flooring and so much more! All on one level, with no stairs! Large fenced lot with a detached oversized 1.5 car garage and insulated shed/shop!

MLS# 1926657

Fully renovated and move in ready 4 bedroom 2 bath family home in Glenella. Too many renovations to list! Has potential for more bedrooms if needed! Must be seen to appreciate! Call to book a showing today!

87041, Gladstone. MB MLS 1921748 $229,900.00 This Beautiful acreage near Gladstone is perfect for your family! 3 Bed, 2 Bath Bgl, many upgrades, fully fenced, 4 dug-outs, Good outbuildings. Call to book your private showing!

Thinking about selling?

We will be happy to provide a FREE Market Evaluation!

217 Railway Ave, Wellwood.

MLS#1932614, $44,900.

Perfect home for any budget!

Features large private backyard w/patio area.3 bdrms, 1 bath.

NEW LISTING 9 Norfolk St, Wellwood.

MLS#1932557. $114,900.

Beautiful 3 bdrm, 1 bath.

Large private backyard w/ single det.garage.

www.facebook.com/gillandschmall

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John Nelson 204-476-6719

Rodney White 204-841-4800

Erin Woodcock 204-868-5559

NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019 19

Celebrating a centennial Neepawa citizen Leo Watt celebrates 100th birthday with friends, family and special guests

PHOTOS BY EOIN DEVEREUX

Leo Watt, born in 1919, celebrated his 100th birthday with family and friends on Friday, Dec. 13, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Watt was also visited by a couple special guests, Neepawa mayor Blake McCutcheon and Agassiz MLA Eileen Clarke. Watt was presented with certificates from the Town of Neepawa, the Federal government, and the Queen to mark the occassion.

Pictured left: From left to right are Enid Graham, Leo Watt, Alyssa Cooley and Corina Cooley.

Pictured right: Blake McCutcheon (left) and Eileen Clark (right) sit with Leo Watt.

We can help you reach your customers!

neepawa

Banner & Press

243 Hamilton St. Neepawa, MB 204-476-3401 news@neepawabanner.com www.neepawabanner.com The Neepawa Banner & Press serves the communities of: Neepawa Minnedosa Carberry Gladstone Erickson McCreary Onanole Plumas Polonia Eden Arden Glenella Alonsa Brookdale Riding Mountain Newdale Kelwood

Austin RR Birnie Wellwood Clanwilliam Franklin Mountain Road Waldersee Woodside Justice Ste. Rose Silver Ridge Langruth Lakeland Southquill (Rolling River) Basswood Laurier Westbourne

Too cold to venture outside today to get your hard copy of the Banner & Press? No need to worry! You can read the Banner & Press online at www.mywestman.ca!

20 NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS DECEMBER 20, 2019

New year, new school for Neepawa students

PHOTOS BY KIRA PATERSON

Last week, finishing touches were being put into the Neepawa Middle School, including the lines on the gym floor (above). Shelving is still waiting to be installed in the library (above right). The classrooms, including the band room (right) have been finished for a while now.

Continued from Page 2 While the Province provided the building itself, it’s up to the School Division to furnish NMS. They’ve had to stretch their budget now across an extra school, so they’ve needed to get creative. Parayeski noted that there have been donations from the 2019 grad committee, some individuals in the

community, as well as organizations, such as the Neepawa Rotary Club, to help provide items for the new building.

Hollier added that they will continue to prioritize purchases that aren’t covered by the division’s current budget.

Parayeski and Hollier noted that after Christmas break, there will be an open house for students and

parents to take a tour of the school. While that event is not open for the whole community, they know the public is anxious to see the facility.

They explained that a grand opening will be held for the public towards the end of January, and more details about that event will be coming in the new year.

Calvary Chapel brings good tidings of great joy The C alvar y Chapel Old Fashioned Christmas, Part 1, was held on Dec. 15. Pictured left is Pastor Linda McLeod, as the Innkeeper’s wife. To the right are song leaders Lorna Kinley, Val Levandoski, Christine Waddell and Sandra Unger. Centre stage held the “stars” of the show, including a goat, chickens and rabbits. The Christmas story was narrated by an overworked Innkeeper’s wife, how she coped with being overwhelmed by all the visitors and the meaning of the occasion.

On Dec. 22, in Part 2, the same cast will return for a second show.

PHOTO BY HARVEY FLEGER

Did You Know?

TAX BENEFITS OF GIVING A GIFT TO YOUR COMMUNITY

A gift to the Beautiful • The year end is fast approaching, have you made this year’s charitable donations?

Plains Community Foundation will give • Many of us take for granted all the activities and amenities available lasting returns well after in our community. Yet many organizations which provide these services the holiday season. need financial support.

Old Fashioned Christmas at Calvary Chapel Located at Hamilton and First in downtown Neepawa

Sunday, Dec. 22 at 10:30 a.m.

“The Christmas story as seen through the eyes of the shepherd’s daughter” Last week’s program, “The Christmas story as seen through the eyes of the innkeeper’s wife” was a huge success with a beautifully rustic set and live animals on stage. Even the chickens joined in the Christmas singing.

Sweets and treats after the program Everyone welcome

• The Beautiful Plains Community Foundation supports these organizations by giving out grants on an annual basis.

• Your gift to the Beautiful Plains Community Foundation will help to provide lasting support to your community well after the holiday season.

HILLSIDE ACCOUNTING

• Charitable tax receipts are given for each donation.

• If your charitable donations for the year are in excess of $200, your BOX 486 NEEPAWA, MB R0J 1H0 combined federal and provincial tax credit can be up to 46.4%. A $100 204-476-2681 info@beautifulplainscf.ca donation will potentially only cost you $53.60! Contact your financial www.beautifulplainscf.ca advisor for more information

INCOME TAX AND ACCOUNTING

GLEN N WOHLG GLEN