75 minutes
Call/text Elaine 204-402-0314 or call (no texts) Jim 204-761-6165
New Wave Neepawa ‘blown
Inaugural Colour Run event exceeds club’s expectations
By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press
The crowd that turned out to the May 24 Colour Run blew Rotary: The New Wave Neepawa’s expectations out of the water. The Neepawa Banner & Press spoke to Jenna Lowry, New Wave Neepawa board member, who shared that a grand total of 240 people participated in the event held at Rotary Park that day.
“It was pretty amazing. We were blown away,” said Lowry. “We initially thought that getting 100 would be great, but blowing that away with 240, we were pleasantly surprised.”
When asked if New Wave Neepawa would consider holding similar events in the future, Lowry answered in the affirmative, stating, “I think our goal would be to do this annually, pending board availability and factors with all the other moving parts involved, for the foreseeable future.”
Continued on Page 9
Off to the races in Minnedosa
Second annual Squirrel Chasers Mountain Bike Race results
By Casper Wehrhahn
The Squirrel Hills Trail Park was the place to be in Minnedosa on May 24. That day, the trail park was home to the annual Squirrel Chasers XC Mountain Bike Race, which welcomed just over 75 participants. This event was hosted in partnership with Prairie Mountain Cycling, the Minnedosa-based cycling club who organized the event; and Valley Life Recreation, the non-profit organization which has been involved in the ongoing development of the Squirrel Hills Trail Park.
“We were really excited to welcome back Manitoba’s mountain bike community after last year’s inaugural event at the Squirrel Hills… For 2025, Prairie Mountain Cycling wanted to build on the great vibes from last year’s event, but this time we had many new additions in place at the trailhead (including washrooms installed just days before) to showcase to the fastest racers in our province,” said Timothy Frykoda, president of Prairie Mountain Cycling. “We were
The Squirrel Hills Trail Park in Minnedosa was buzzing with activity on May 24 for the second annual Squirrel Chasers XC Mountain Bike Race. Last year’s event (as well as the Spring Fever race held in Neepawa) served as qualifier races for the 2024 Manitoba Summer Games!
Pictured left: A couple of the adult participants as they were seen on their race route.
Pictured right: One of the youth participants proudly displays a Squirrel Chasers medal while flashing a bright smile. Bottom left: A few of the younger attendees and racers made themselves a shady spot at the Saputo Nature Playground.
super happy with the turnout and grateful for how the trails dried up just in time for all the knobby
tires that rolled over them after the week of rain that preceded the event”
Richard Dupuis, Valley Life Recreation board member, added, “It was a lovely day, The new Squirrel Hills Trail Park was in full display. Overall it went very smoothly. It was great to see the Ole Heie Skillz Park being so actively used for the whole day. It was a very festive and encouraging environment where people challenged themselves to the various courses and distances.”
Race results
Those participating in the races that day ranged in skill level and age cat-
egories. Participants as young as eight, to 65+ years old gave it their all on the trails.
The race results for individuals within the Neepawa Banner & Press coverage area are as follows:
•Youth Female: Zhannaa Frykoda (Minnedosa), first.
•Youth Male: Jordy Loewen (Neepawa), second; Alexandre Theroux (Minnedosa), fifth.
•Adult Sport Female: Mischa Drykoda (Minnedosa), first.
•Kids category: Harper and Finley Lamont (Brandon); Laine and Tristan Loewen (Neepawa).
Full race results can be found online at zone4.ca by searching Squirrel Chaser XC MTB 2025.
Trailhead
nearly complete
Additional highlights from the day also included:
•Opening comments from Barb Fleury and Roger Smith of Les Métis Local.
•An honour song shared by Derek McKay and members of the 291 Rolling River youth drum group.
•The Saputo Nature Playground, which was particularly popular with the families in attendance.
Some youth used it as a comfortable spot to rest and gather together.
Thanks is extended to all who helped to make this day a success.
Dupuis also shared a quick update on the development of the new trailhead, stating, “The trailhead is 90 per cent complete and we are having our grand opening for the Squirrel Hills Trail Park [on July 12].”
The Neepawa Banner & Press looks forward to sharing further news on the developments and hard work put into this recreational venue in the future.
Neepawa Banner & Press
PHOTOS COURTESY OF VALLEY LIFE RECREATION
1975: Neepawa author receives honourary degree
By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press
125 years ago, Wednesday, June 6, 1900
Note: The entries for 1900 are from The Neepawa Register, as The Press for that year is not fit for regular handling.
Wild flowers have commenced to bloom in profusion.
The wild fruit crop this year has every indication of being a prolific one.
The team of Jno. Hamilton became frightened at a stray piece of paper being blown up the avenue and ran away, smashing the sidewalk and demolishing the wagon on Saturday last. The team escaped with the first wheels of the vehicle.
Pronounce “kahki” as if it were spelled “carkee”. This is the correct pronunciation.
The Ogilvie Milling Co. has closed a contract for 1,500,000 feet of lumber to build elevators in the province this year.
100 years ago, Friday, June 5, 1925
Arden: Mike Bokservitz was operated on on Tuesday in Neepawa hospital for a badly diseased left leg, the bone being affected. He will be in the hospital some time, but it is doing as well as can be expected.
Arden: Cows have been trespassing in River park.
Town authorities should see that cows and hens and other domestics are not allowed to trespass on other people’s property.
McCreary: Quite a number of the farmers along the Riding Mountain west of McCreary have not any land sown yet owing to the springy nature and the recent rain is making it almost too soft to get any crop in this year.
Development of Neepawa salt well is receiving attention from directors of the company. Tests of quality and flow of brine have been satisfactory enough to warrant going ahead with plans for financing and purchase of equipment.
75 years ago, Thursday, June 1, 1950
James Hall, 73, a prominent farmer and community leader in this district for the past 50 years died suddenly at his farm Thursday morning, May 25…
Mr. Hall was born in Galt, in Waterloo County, Ont., on Jan. 19, 1877…
He came west in the spring of 1900 to the Neepawa district and settled on land one mile south and a half mile east of the present farm.
In 1903, he returned to Ontario to bring back his bride, the former Agnes White, of Galt, and they have resided in the district
and farmed successfully since that time.
Mr. Hall early associated himself with the Beautiful Plains Agricultural Society. He was a member for over 40 years and in 1929 was elected president of the organization.
He was mainly responsible for the existence of the Society today and his guidance during the organization’s critical financial period from 1929 through the early 30s influenced the directors to retain their property.
A team of Neepawa marksmen brought honor to themselves and their district with five wins as well as a team member capturing top honors as the best shot in the 12th Manitoba Dragoons Regiment at the Regimental Rifle Competition.
The rifleman who distinguished himself is Tpr. R. A. Burns of D. Squadron in the 200 yard range shoot. Burns and Sgt. E. C. Delmage of Virden had perfect scores. In this event, about 85 competed.
Neepawa’s winning marksmen included, with score in brackets: Major G. A. T. Mackidd (90), Tpr. C. Cameron (90), Tpr. R. A. Burns (98), Tpr. J. Sinclair (96), Tpr. M. Montgomery (96), S-S. M. T. Inverarity (92). The highest possible score was 100.
Lois Elaine Berry, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Berry, of Franklin, was one of the graduates [Bachelor of Nursing] honored at the University of Manitoba School of Nursing Convocation Friday, May 30, at Fort Garry United Church. Lois was awarded a bursary by the Victorian Order of Nurses and has a VON posting to Regina, effective September 1975. She has summer employment at the Rehabilitation Centre, Winnipeg.
Catherine Ann Sangster of Neepawa received her Bachelor of Science degree from Brandon University at their spring convocation held Saturday, May 24. She received all her education in Neepawa, attending all three schools here before on to her post-secondary studies in Brandon.
50 years ago, Thursday, June 6, 1975
Neepawa Town Council refused to act on a request by the Neepawa local of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) for automatic checkoff of dues from salaries of town employees, which was received by letter from the local secretary and read at their regular meeting Tuesday night.
The official opening of the six-storey senior citizen’s residence in Neepawa, the Yellowhead Manor, took place Monday, June 2, under the auspices of the Manitoba Housing and Renewal Corporation.
The official cutting of the ribbon was done by H. N. Dubow’s from MHRC and V. E. Hamm, who represented Central Mortgage and Housing Corporation who supplied 90 per cent of the capital costs of the project.
Margaret Laurence, an internationally-known Canadian writer put forth an impassioned plea to graduating students at Brandon University’s convocation ceremonies Saturday, May 24, that they read, buy and promote Canadian literature.
Mrs. Laurence received an honorary Doctor of Literature degree from Brandon University.
changes to the town’s budget…
[Ralph] Cibula is opposed to the establishment of a special levy for policing, which he said marks a shift from a mill rate to a flat tax rate.
Construction of the chemotherapy unit at Neepawa hospital is nearing completion with a grand opening scheduled for the end of the month.
Brookdale: Welcome to the district to Gary and Anna Stevenson, Tammy Aikin and Colin Sheppared who have taken up residence in Brookdale. Both couples are from Alberta.
Natural Prairie Beef has secured $2million in investments, helping pave the way for construction of a beef slaughter plant in Neepawa.
Knox Presbyterian Church observed its 98th anniversary and the centennial year of the Presbyterian Church in Canada Sunday, June 1.
Arden: 43rd draw winner of the 200 Club was the Senior Hardball Club of Arden.
20 years ago, Monday, June 6, 2005
A Gladstone man plans to present a 60 signature petition to council at its next meeting, calling for
Kelly Penner of Douglasbased Natural Prairie Beef is joining forces with Saskatchewan-based Natural Valley Farms to start the Neepawa operation.
Disclaimer: The information gathered and used each week in the Looking Back feature is directly taken from the original print copy of the Neepawa Press and Neepawa Banner newspapers. Any errors or omissions from stories (Factually or otherwise) are the result of the original print and not the responsibility of the archivist for the current version of the Neepawa Banner & Press.
so also Christ died only once as an offering for the sins of many people; and he will come again, but not to deal again with our sins. This time he will come bringing salvation to all those who are eagerly and patiently waiting for him. Hebrews 9:28 (The Living Bible)
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BANNER & PRESS ARCHIVES
Margaret Laurence received her honourary Doctor of Literature degree from Brandon University on May 24. This photo of the former Neepawa resident was in the June 5, 1975 edition of The Press.
NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS ARCHIVES
This advertisement from M&R Ranch House was in the June 6, 2005 edition of the Neepawa Banner.
Perspectives
Tundra
By Chad Carpenter
A lot to be learned
Ithink there’s a lot that could be learned from rural businesses.
Just thinking back to some columns I have written recently about bad phone answering systems at some businesses and an over dependence on computer records, I become grateful for local businesses that do customer service correctly. Most rural businesses treat their customers very well. That’s in stark contrast to bigger corporate outfits who make phone-in customers have to press multiple buttons in a desperate search for service or answers.
In our business and travels, we or our staff enter over 200 doors every week delivering one or more of our three family-owned community newspapers. We are well met at every one of the places we go.
When it comes to local business services, when we call an electrician or a plumber, they come promptly. Our vehicle servicing is done as soon as the overloaded garages can get us in the door.
Our grocery stores, pharmacies and furniture stores are always helpful.
The common thread is local and community. Every town and village should cling to and support their local services. Rural Manitoba is strewn with communities that used to offer services but do so no more, our roads are dotted with sad memories of how things used to be.
Rural Canada in general and rural Manitoba in particular is on the verge of another great shift in services. I speak of Canada Post. Here’s the background as I understand it. Every town and village used to have a Post Office. Instead many now have community lockboxes and I suspect many more will have them in the future. It’s hard to pin blame for the demise
Ken Waddell Right in the Centre
of Canada Post but there’s plenty to go around.
Many of our younger people will have no memory of when mail order shopping was a big deal, lead by Eatons, Sears and many other companies that shipped goods to rural customers.
Today, internet shopping has replaced the mail orders but Canada Post still delivers a lot of those parcels. Unfortunately for Canada Post, the courier companies are beating them to the punch.
Canada Post is into a threatened strike again in less than six months. The problem is that neither the postal workers nor Canada Post are willing to face the reality that change has to come. Canada Post may lose $1billion this year. That’s 1,000 million dollars. That isn’t good and it isn’t sustainable without huge inputs of tax dollars. The union is fighting change as much as the PO itself.
Here’s a few examples. Why is door-to-door delivery five days a week still a thing? It makes no sense.
Why are there rural routes? Most people can come to a Post Office or a lock box once or twice a week.
How about wage demands? I am willing to bet that if Canada Post held a job fair offering prospective mail carrier jobs at even the current rate, there would be many applicants. That may mean that postal workers
Internally, CP and the union insist on some stupid rules. Post Offices are supposed to bag up ALL incoming mail and ship it to a regional sorting centre. That means mail coming into a local post office, destined for a PO box in that same Post Office, has to be delivered to a regional centre, sorted and sent back to the post office it was delivered from and then placed in the customer’s PO box. That’s a make work project if ever there was one.
Many people within and outside the system complain that Canada Post has way too many administrators, bureaucrats and vice-presidents. I think I agree.
I am very concerned that the federal government will step in and prop up an out-dated Post Office system with a $billion or more every year and nothing will change. If Canada Post really wants to change and survive, then the powers that be better get in a car and visit a bunch of local post offices to figure out how to survive. The local Postmasters, Postmistresses and staff know what’s needed but I don’t believe they have ever been asked. Based on past Post Office and federal government performance, I doubt that they ever will be asked.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this column are the writer’s personal views and are not to be taken as being the view of the newspaper staff.
And, I’m back (Part two)
From Belfast we travelled by train to Dublin. I was told that if I liked Scotland and Northern England, I should be prepared to be wowed by the greens of Ireland. They are spectacular. I think that anyone coming from a prairie winter will find anything green is spectacular! It is interesting to see that the plants we so carefully nurture in our homes grow wild and free in other countries. I was most impressed by the fuchsia, here we contain it, there it grows like a huge shrub or a small tree, glorious and bold. It was in Dublin that I realised how little I knew of the Potato Famine; caused by an dominating empire that cared more for economic gain than people’s lives and livelihood; (still seeing this happen, sadly) the flight and plight of the average citizen in Ireland, and then a glimpse of humanity at its best. We toured a replica of the Jeanie Johnston, a tall mast ship that made 16 Trans-Atlantic voyages with refugees. On the average ship, a cargo ship that after unloading the treasures from America, filled their holds with starving families, the death rate was around 35 per cent. There was starvation, disease, despair and fighting. The owner of the Jeanie Johnston was Irish, very unusual for shipowners were British or American. He hired a Christian Captain and employed a doctor. Other ships crammed three hundred people on board, he limited it to two hundred healthy individuals. Every day, every person was allowed on deck, airing their bedding and not only emptying the chamber pots but getting them washed in the ocean. The doctor checked every person every 48 hours and anyone unwell was placed in isolation. The captain decreed that everyone wash, comb, and become as presentable as possible to attend services every Sunday. The captain also provided basic food for every person for the crossing. There was never, on any of the crossings, a death. Compassion, caring and generosity saved countless lives.
I’m not a zoo person. However! The Dublin Zoo is so worth the time. It was pointed out to me that a zoo there can be so different because the winter is not at all like ours. The enclosures are spacious and filled with growth that is natural to the animal. I believe I enjoyed watching my travel companions enjoy the zoo as much as I admired the creatures!
No travelogue is complete without a food review! The potatoes were the best I have ever tasted, fried, stewed, scalloped; It didn’t matter. The serving staff, and we found them all welcoming and knowledgeable, explained that it was the local milk, cream and butter that made the difference. Whatever it was, it worked! The lamb stew and fish and chips, something I don’t usually order, were so good. As was a goat’s cheese salad. All I can say it’s a very good thing that we were active!
Time away is wonderful. Time at home is wonderful. I think I’m caught up with me, and with my work!
Looking up, Part I
As I write these words, the Province of Manitoba has just declared a provincewide state of emergency in response to the wildfires burning across this province. Residents in the affected areas (especially around Flin Flon) are looking around, wondering how close the flames are to where they live. They are also looking up—hoping and praying for rains that will help to extinguish those fires and save homes, buildings and businesses they spent their lives constructing and maintaining. They aren’t the only ones looking for rain. The recent storm that left two inches of rain in my back yard didn’t extend far enough east or north to do serious damage to the fires. All parts of Manitoba need several days of steady rain. The same is true for much of Saskatchewan and Alberta.
Southern Alberta residents are also dealing with an outbreak of measles. At the time of writing, just over 600 cases had been confirmed, with Alberta health officials saying that, in their view, “this is just
Neil Strohschein
the tip of the iceberg.” More cases are expected, putting added pressure on already stressed-out health care workers as they try to control the spread of this highly contagious infectious disease.
You and I will never go through life without facing serious challenges. Coping with them will require every ounce of physical, mental and emotional energy we have.
In some cases, we can reduce the threat of potential challenges by looking after ourselves and what we own. Measles, for example, can be easily controlled through regular immunization of children. A report I read last week stated that those areas hardest hit by the measles outbreak tend to have the lowest vaccination rates; but governments are in no hurry to make these vaccinations mandatory.
The same cannot be said for wildfires. They happen; and in the forested areas of western Canada, they happen a lot. Some are caused by lightning strikes or other natural phenomena. For those where human error or deliberate action can be proven, the responsible persons will be identified and punished appropriately.
As part of this discussion, I must address the impact of climate change. The seeds of this problem date back to the onset of the Industrial Revolution, 250 years ago. As the years passed and industrial production increased, so did the greenhouse gasses that were discharged into the atmosphere. Today’s efforts to reduce these emissions, while laudable and encouraging, will not eliminate climate change overnight. The solutions we need must be supported by the
best scientific knowledge available, must recognize the necessity of fossil fuels in Canadian agriculture and must be economically sustainable. Such solutions will take time and political will to discover, but they will be discovered.
A good first step in coping with these challenges is to stop looking for someone to blame for them. Blaming others for our problems won’t make them go away. We have to face them head on, solve them, learn the lessons they can teach us and make appropriate changes in attitude and lifestyle that will keep them from happening again.
As we do, it is helpful to remember that there is one person whose advice can always be trusted and who is always ready to help. To all of us, whatever our life’s challenges may be, he says: “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”
(Jeremiah 33:3)
If you are facing serious problems today, don’t panic. Look up. God is here, ready and willing to help you. Ask, and you will receive.
Kelwood community mail shelter being upgraded
PHOTO BY ALANA LEVANDOSKI
The former Canada Post Office in Kelwood (pictured) is now a community-owned mail shelter. This past week, community members were busy doing some much needed upgrades. The community hopes that local mail delivery will carry on for many years to come.
Thumbs up, thumbs down
Editor’s note: The Neepawa Banner & Press made an error on one submission in the May 30 edition, by using the incorrect Thumbs up/Thumbs down icon. The thumbs up is being reprinted this week with the proper thumbs up icon. The Banner & Press apologize to Mr. McPhee and the readers for the mistake
A thumbs up to Premier Wab Kinew and Ethics Commissioner Jeffery Schnoor for taking a stand when obvious violations of the ethics codes have been committed.
Allan McPhee
Neepawa, MB
Thumbs down to the Town of Neepawa for not looking after the bird sanctuary… Stacks of lumber, and pallets that needs to be cleaned up.
Kelly Brownlee Neepawa, MB
Editor’s note: The Bird Sanctuary Committee is responsibe of the upkeep of Bird Sanctuary, not the Town of Neepawa.
Letters
Federal neglect of Western R.M’s must end
Rural communities are the backbone of Canada, yet they continue to be left behind by the federal Liberal government that seems increasingly out of touch with the needs of Western municipalities. Across rural Manitoba, communities are facing challenges that require urgent attention, but the government in Ottawa appears to be focused elsewhere.
The story of rural municipalities such as Prairie View and Yellowhead, which face urgent water and wastewater infrastructure challenges isn’t uncommon. Across Manitoba and western Canada, local municipalities struggle to keep up with the rising cost of infrastructure projects. Inflation has caused the cost of projects to double in many cases, passing on increased costs to ratepayers, and putting several projects on hold indefinitely.
Close to home, outdated wastewater systems is not only a barrier to development but also a public health concern. Without federal funding, these municipalities lack the resources to make the necessary improvements. The result is a patchwork of underfunded projects and stalled progress, while Ottawa continues to prioritize urban areas and ideological projects over practical solutions for rural Canadians.
Continued on Page 14
Helen Drysdale
out of helen’s kitchen
Kale salad and oatmeal bars
Kale, a powerful “super food” has taken me some time to get used to. It is packed with vitamins A, C, and K as well as calcium so I have been making salads with it. This salad is colourful and is a wonderful addition to any table. You will win using either of these dressings because they are both great. I often add shredded cheese or feta cheese and make this my complete meal. The leftovers will keep in the fridge for several days.
7-8 cups of prepared kale
Kale salad
1/2 small red onion, cut diced
1/2 red pepper, diced
1 large apple, diced
1 medium carrot, grated
1/2 cup shelled pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
Dressing #1:
4 Tbsp. apple cider or red wine vinegar
4 Tbsp. oil
1 Tbsp. honey
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 small clove garlic, minced 1/2 tsp. each salt and pepper or to taste
Dressing #2
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp. Dion mustard
2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
1 Tbsp. honey or sugar
1/2 -1 tsp. cumin if desired 1/2 tsp. each salt and pepper or to taste
Once you’ve rinsed and dried your kale, run your hand along the stem to remove the green leaves from the stalky stem. Discard the stems. Cut the leaves into 1/4 inch strips and add to a large bowl. Add the onions, pepper, apple, carrots, pumpkin seeds and cranberries. Combine and stir dressing ingredients together. Pour over the kale, stir to combine and enjoy. You can make this salad ahead of time and refrigerate.
Oatmeal seed bar
I love candied ginger! These dried slices of natural ginger root, cured and coated in sugar make great additions to any baking. The mild spicy taste and pleasant aroma of ginger compliment this sweet treat. I tried this bar recipe for a quick sweet on my busy gardening days.
1 cup butter
2/3 cup honey
1/2 cup sugar
5 cups oatmeal
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup candied ginger
1 cup raisins
1 Tbsp. flour
1 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 tsp. salt
Heat oven to 325°F. Butter a 9x13 inch pan. Heat butter, honey and sugar over low heat until melted, about 3 minutes. In a large bowl combine the remaining ingredients. Add the butter mix to the oats mix and stir to combine. Gently pat into prepared pan. Bake until golden brown for 30-35 minutes. Cool and cut into bars.
Unhelpful thinking styles
Many of us have an internal dialogue happening in our heads and it’s not always that nice. We are filled with what are called, “Cognitive Distortions,” also known as unhelpful thinking styles. These thinking patterns affect everything we do in life from how we approach our relationships, to how we feel when we go out in public, to how we feel about ourselves. The really interesting thing about these thought patterns is that if we can identify them and categorize them, then we can know how to address them. We address these thought patterns by having a conversation with ourself and actively challenging those unhelpful thoughts with ones that are more helpful. Challenging thoughts is easier said than done but with practice, it can make a huge difference in your life.
The first type of cognitive distortion is called All or Nothing Thinking. This is where you think in black or white terms. You tend to view situations in the extreme. An example of this might be thinking, “If I’m not perfect at this, then I’ve failed”. Your way to challenge this thought is to ask yourself, “Is there a more balanced way of looking at this?” or “Is there a middle ground here?”. Maybe you say to yourself, “I didn’t do everything perfectly, but I succeeded at a lot of parts”.
Next is Overgeneralization. For this unhelpful thought you make large sweeping generalizations about situations or people based on a limited number of events or limited information. An example might be, “I fail at everything”. To challenge this thought you have to look for the evidence by asking yourself, “Is this true all the time” and “what are other times in my life that I have succeeded?”. Maybe a more helpful thought would be to say, “I don’t fail at EVERYTHING, here is some evidence of times I have succeeded in my life.” Mental filter is when we only look at one side of the story. It’s kind of like
Your Listening Ear
Delsie Martin
you are wearing sunglasses that filter out all the good in your current reality. An example would be telling yourself “Well that one thing went wrong today so the whole day sucks”. Did your ENTIRE day suck or is this just a moment in time? Try asking yourself, “Am I overlooking the good?”. If you can’t find the good, phone a friend, tell them your unhelpful thought and get your reality checked. Instead, you can say “Yes, a bad thing happened today, but I will not allow this whole day to be ruined because of this one thing.”
Fortune Telling is a big one. This is where you look at a situation and say to yourself, “I KNOW this thing is going to happen”. As an example saying to yourself, “I know that if I go to this party, I’m going to have a panic attack”. Yes, we make guesses of what could happen based on past experiences and those can be correct BUT, if you go into a situation believing that you know with 100 per cent certainty what will happen, you are setting yourself up for that outcome and the emotions that go along with it. Try reminding yourself
that you don’t have a crystal ball, that you are not psychic and that you cannot possibly know every outcome of the future.
To go along with Fortune Telling is “Mind Reading”. Mind reading is where you say to yourself, “I KNOW that person thinks ___ about me.” “I know they think I’m a bad mom” or “I know that everyone thinks I’m a failure”. The problem with mind reading is that we believe we can do it, we believe that we genuinely know what others are thinking when in reality, we are not Spock, we cannot read minds. To challenge these thoughts, remind yourself that you can’t read minds, even though you may like to. Challenging cognitive distortions is tough work and doesn’t come all at once. Try picking one thinking pattern that you do and working on it one at a time. The first step is recognizing them, the next is challenging them, and repeat. You’ve got this!
Neepawa Rotary Club gets scoop on FCL
By Ken Waddell Neepawa Banner & Press
On May 28, Neepawa Rotary Club welcomed a special guest. Jason Ryden, Federated Co-op Limited (FCL) Business Advisor, who gave a presentation on his work. In his Business Advisor capacity, Ryden services 14 local cooperatives including NeepawaGladstone Co-op. Originally from Souris, Ryden has been with the co-op movement for 24 years.
Ryden explained the purpose and functioning of the FCL oil refinery at Regina which he said, “was really the beginning of FCL.” He explained that FCL services local co-ops and the local co-ops serve local customers. FCL had $11.9 billion in sales last year, $297 million in net sales and paid our $252million in patronage. FCL serves 156 co-ops
New crosswalk safety features installed near Giant Tiger
PHOTO BY EOIN DEVEREUX
in Western Canada and 650 communities. Ryden emphasized that FCL is very environmentally conscious and always looking
ahead at new technology and caring for the environment all the while processing 130,000 barrels of oil a day.
Public meeting set to discuss rec facility future in Neepawa
By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press
The citizens of Neepawa and the surrounding R.M.’s have the chance this week to weigh in on the future of local recreation.
A meeting has been organized by the Neepawa & Area Rec Centre Committee for Tuesday, June 10 at the Yellowhead Centre. The gathering, which is set to begin at
7:00 p.m., will share details on the potential long term master plan for the area. As well, it’s expected to include the announcement of four different potential locations where a new regional recreation/event centre could be constructed.
As the population of Neepawa and the surrounding area continues to grow, the current recreation centre infrastructure appears to be near or past its’ expiry to meet local needs.
A good example of that would be the Yellowhead Centre. While the volunteer board of the Yellowhead has done everything it can to maintain and upgrade the building, only so much can be done for a facility that is over 50 years old
A new recreation facility could play a critical role in easing these pressures and providing new recreational opportunities for residents.
A new crosswalk across one of Neepawa busiest streets is lighting the way to safety. The Town has completed the installation of a solar powered pedestrian beacon at the intersection of Mountain Avenue and Brydon Street (near the Giant Tiger). The crossing is button activated on each side and will brightly flashed for a 15 second interval. Pedestrians are asked to start using the beacon on a consistent basis to cross and motorists are advised to allow right of way for those walking.
PHOTO BY KEN WADDELL
Jason Ryden, Federated Co-op Limited (FCL) Business Advisor told the Neepawa Rotary Club all about FCL at their monthly meeting. Ryden fielded a number of questions about from members.
‘Serving society has been in my soul’ Plumas Inn team aids community via grocery services
By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press
A rural business stepped up earlier this year to fill a need in its community. The Plumas Inn, located in Plumas, implemented a temporary grocery program. This program was put in place following the loss of the Plumas Stop & Shop, which tragically burned down on Mar. 2. The ownership of the Plumas Inn noted that this program will remain available to Plumas residents until the Plumas Stop & Shop is rebuilt.
The Neepawa Banner & Press recently had the opportunity to speak to Plumas Inn owner Ravi Thakkar, who noted that he was away in India for a business trip when the beloved grocery store was lost. “I came to know about it from Facebook and I offered help from there. After I got back, I offered my place to the store owner to start his shop so people don’t need to travel for daily essentials. He appreciated me for that; also he didn’t mind if I provided basic groceries to our neighbors,” said Thakkar. “After talking to the store owner, I interacted with some active and supportive people of the town. They were very happy to
SUBMITTED
Pictured here are members of the Plumas Inn team with some of the groceries that they keep in stock for the town. From left to right are: Beena Thakkar, Ravi Thakkar, Stuti Thakkar and Marharyta Hirka.
know about the initiative.”
Thakkar has prior experience with the operations of a grocery store, and shared that he was able to use his experience to swiftly lend aid to the community.
Student bands entertain
The Neepawa Area Collegiate Institute and Neepawa Middle School band groups hosted some performances recently. Pictured here are a couple scenes from the concerts.
Pictured left: Vocal soloist Ceanna Salvador performing ‘Cry Me a River’, accompanied by the NACI Jazz Band at the NACI concert held on May 31.
Pictured right: The Grade 6 band group playing ‘Frere Jacques’ during the NMS concert, which was held on May 28.
“I made sure that at least the essentials would be available for people of town within the days of
the incident,” said Thakkar. Thakkar also shared that his desire to help partially stems from his youth, being very socially involved since his teenage days.
“Serving society has been in my soul. I’ve just focused it in a professional and social manner,” said Thakkar. “As an inn owner, I am used to buying groceries for my restaurant at a reasonable price, so why not forward this benefit to the community?”
In his final comments, Thakkar wished to extend a word of gratitude to the people of Plumas.
“[They have] always been kind to us and the Plumas Inn team, who is like family and have always supported me. I appreciate their gesture,” said Thakkar.
The Neepawa Banner & Press was unable to contact the ownership of the Plumas Stop & Shop for comments, but wishes them the best of luck on their endeavors.
Be smart with your cash! Put a little out and bring a bundle in when you advertise with us!
•
• Camping available on first come basis $20/night unserviced
• Bring your lawnchair
• LET'S
•
•
• Clubbing Fraggles
First Neepawa Colour Run a team-made success
Continued from Page 1
As such, those who participated in the 2025 event can look forward to the opportunity to do so again in the future. Or, if anyone wasn’t able to participate this year, the potential to get in on the fun for the next go around.
The enjoyment of the event from those in attendance was evident, as plenty of smiles could be seen among the throng of people gathered at the starting line. Contributing to the fun of the event is its partial inspiration from the Hindu festival known as Holi– a celebration of colours, love and spring. All who attended were encouraged to wear a white shirt of their choosing and, at the start of the run/walk as well as at various checkpoints along their routes, were splashed with vibrantly coloured powders (foodgrade corn starch). By the end of the runs and walks, each participant had their own unique, colourful shirt as a memento of the day’s activities.
Providing a final comment, Lowry extended her gratitude to all involved who helped to make the inaugural event a success.
“All of the board, all of the volunteers– everyone involved– they all took a piece of this puzzle, got together and put on this wonderful community event and made it a success,” said Lowry.
Thanks is also extended to all who engaged in the event as participants for the runs and walks.
PHOTOS BY CASPER WEHRHAHN
Pictured above: Rotary: The New Wave Neepawa board members (as they appear from left to right) Becky Jury, Raelynn Jacobsen, Nikki Tibbett, (Secretary) Dana Menzies, (Treasurer) Karla Hackewich, (President) Kristin Tibbett, Jenna Lowry, Pam Levandosky, Kristin Jury, Ashley MacCaughan, Candice Newton at the starting line of the May 24 Colour Run. The board is thankful to all who helped make the inaugural event a sucess.
Pictured right: Seen here is one of the younger participants of the May 24 Colour Run, who sported a bright smile while getting a splash of yellow colouring at one of the checkpoint stations
Dan Mazier named Shadow Minister for Health
New Counsellor growing her practice in Neepawa
By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press
Our local representative in Ottawa is headed into the next session of Parliament with a brand new role to play. Dan Mazier has been named the official opposition’s Shadow Minister for Health. This portfolio is one of the most important, as it will be holding the Mark Carney led minority government to account on the nation’s healthcare system.
While the provinces are in charge of managing the delivery of healthcare, the federal government still plays a key role by enforcing the Canada Health Act. It is also responsible for providing funding through health transfers, approving drugs, coordinating national strategies on mental health and addiction, and overseeing the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Mazier’s focus in his new role will be on federal policies and barriers that affect access to care, health workforce shortages, and addiction recovery efforts across the country.
“It’s an honour to take on this significant responsibility,” said Mazier, via a media release announcing his
appointment. “Canadians are waiting too long for care, healthcare workers are burnt out, and families have lost faith in a system clogged by government gatekeepers. Conservatives are ready to help fix it.”
Mazier, who previously served as Shadow Minister for Rural Economic Development and Connectivity, acknowledged that while health is a new portfolio for him, the need for urgent action is clear.
“For 10 years, the Liberals have made excuses while access to doctors has got worse,” Mazier said. “Canada’s healthcare system is broken because government gatekeepers block access to care. I will work tirelessly to ensure the voices of Canadians are heard and that we build a healthcare system that delivers care not just bureaucracy.
An abbreviated session of Parliament returned on May 26, and will stay in session until June 20. A full seating of Parliament will begin in mid-September.
Grace Roseen establishing her credentials at Grit & Growth Wellness
By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press
In many careers and trades, the transition from education to practice can be a bit daunting. Perhaps even more so in a profession such as mental health care, where everyone involved can feel a bit more vulnerable. But for Grace Roseen, her shift from a student to Counsellor in the practice of compassionate has been as seamless and rewarding as one could ever hope for.
Earlier this spring, Roseen began a practicum at Grit & Growth Wellness in both its’ Erickson and Neepawa locations. Grace has been seeing clients under the supervision of Karli Brackenredd, a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC).
These sessions provide psychotherapy services for individuals, couples and families with a focus on trauma informed care. In laymen’s terms, in time of grief or crisis, these people are there to offer support and provide a path in the process of healing.
Grace’s inspiration for pursuing this career is connected to her experience in rural areas. Roseen noted that she really saw the need for more mental health resources to be accessible in places outside of metros such as Winnipeg and Brandon.
From an education standpoint, Roseen spent four years earning her undergraduate degrees from the University of Manitoba, with an additional two and half years working towards a master degrees. Part of that two and a half years includes a seven month practicum in the field, in this case, Grit & Growth Wellness
As for working with clients as part of Grit & Growth, Grace told the Banner & Press, the experience has been remarkable. She said that comfort and trust are huge components of the bond between a client and counsellor, and that she works to earn that bond in every session.
“The big thing is finding [a counsellor] that gets your values and is able to taylor the approach to you,” noted Roseen. “I think one misconception that a lot of people may have is that counselling is only for people who have really big heavy issues. Counselling is for anyone who want to do better for themselves or become a better version of themselves. You can talk about whatever you want. It doesn’t need to be about pain, it can be about progress.”
Grit & Growth Wellness has been operating in rural Manitoba with offices in Neepawa and Erickson since 2021. The Manitoba-based
Grace Roseen is currently establishing her practice as a Practicum Counsellor at Grit & Growth Wellness in Neepawa and Erikson.
mental health practice offers client-centred counselling services for children, youth, and adults. It specializes in holistic, trauma-informed support that honours the unique stories and strengths of every individual. More information can be located online at www.gritandgrowth. center
Alixandra Sabeski
SUBMITTED PHOTO
NACI Tigers compete at Baseball Provincial Championship
By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press
After a successful regular season, the Neepawa Tigers varsity baseball team had the chance to participate in the 2025 MHSAA Provincial Baseball Championship.
Neepawa was one of 12 teams involved and was representing Zone Seven. The Tigers were placed in Pool Three, and were matched up against the Garden City Gophers and Warren Wildcats.
Game one was played on Thursday, May 29 and saw Neepawa fall to Garden City 15-5. For the second game of the round robin, the Tigers bounced back with a 12-2 win over Warren on May 30. Those results were good enough to secure a
spot in the quarter-finals and a pairing against the Garden Valley Zodiacs, who went 2-0 in the round robin portion of play, outscoring their opposition 23-1 in the process. This matchup against one of the city teams was a rough one for Neepawa, as they lost 20-1 and were eliminated from the event.
As for the rest of the Provincials, it would ultimately be Garden City who would claim the title, as they defeated Steinbach 13-1 in the final, played on Saturday, May. 31.
Congratulations to Neepawa, Garden City and all the other teams involved in this year’s baseball provincials
Neepawa Cubs win their first game of the Santa Clara Baseball season
By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press
Garett Rempel’s first outing on the mound for the Neepawa Cubs this season was exactly what the team needed, as they bested the Austin A’s 4-1. The pitching ace collected a complete game win on Friday, May 30, with an impressive nine strikeouts, while surrendering just five hits. Other contributors for the Cubbies were Brad Wilson, who went 3-for-4 at the plate and stole a pair of bases.The victory was Neepawa’s first of the Santa Clara Baseball League (SCBL) season, and improved their record to 1-3-0.
Next up for Neepawa was a back to back series against the Plumas Pirates. The first game was on Wednesday, June 4 in Neepawa (game played just after the Banner &
Press publication deadline). Game two is set to be played in Plumas on Friday, June 6. Opening pitch is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
Minnedosa blanked in Portage
A pair of double plays, as well as catching a Minnedosa player trying to steal home, ensured a 9-0 win for the Portage Padres on Friday, May 30. The Mavericks threatened Portage several times, but the Padres made the plays they needed to secure the win, their fifth of the year. Minnedosa, meanwhile, fell to 1-2-1 on the season.
The Mavericks are back on the field at home this week for a pair against Austin. The Mavs’ weekend game will be on Friday, June 6 at 7:00 p.m.
A tie in Plumas
Both the Carberry Roy-
als and Plumas Pirates had remarkable nights at the plate, as their Friday, May 30 game ended up tied 12-12 The Royals scored seven of their runs in the top of 5th inning, while. Plumas, replied with six of their own in the bottom half, on the way to the tie.
Justin Walker went 3-for-3 at bat for Plumas, while Carberry’s Cory Billiaert was 3-for-4.
This result dropped Plumas to 3-0-1, while Carberry registered its second tie in four games. (0-2-2).
The Pirates are next matched up against Neepawa, while Carberry must deal with the league’s top
team, the Portage Padres (5-0-0). The next home game for the Royals will be Friday night versus Portage and has a 7:00 p.m. start time.
Gladstone Golf & Country Club in full swing
By Joshua Jackson Neepawa Banner & Press
With warm weather here to stay and summer on the horizon, the Gladstone Golf and Country Club’s season is in full swing.
Treasurer Rosie Banyard said club staff have done a lot behind the scenes to prepare the course for the season.
The club is expecting the course’s greens to be in great condition this year.
“It will be exciting to see how fast they are, compared to last year, as the SuperIntendant has spent a lot of time researching the best practices for good greens care and maintenance,” said the Treasurer.
The Gladstone Golf and Country Club features a nine-hole golf course with
“The staff were busy during April with equipment maintenance, as well as checking the sprinkler system to make sure everything was working properly. There were also trees to cut down and a lot of debris clearance that was needed on the course,” she said. “Water has already been a concern, and we have been looking at ways to improve the quality of the water used to irrigate the course.”
fairway yardage markers, large, demanding greens and challenging pin placements that will keep you engaged throughout the round. The course also features a driving range, practice green, and a spacious clubhouse/outdoor patio.
Banyard added that the course has undergone some changes since last year.
“The biggest change and upgrade this year on the course is that the three alternative tee-off is now open. We have three alternatives, on holes two, three, and nine, so the
course is now even more exciting to play, allowing a different round on the back nine.”
You can expect all the great tournaments that you know and love to return to the golf course this year, but Banyard noted they’re adding some new stuff as well.
“We have included a new glow golf tournament in the spring, as well as in the fall. We have also changed the dates for the Juniors tournament to early June, and we’ve moved the Ladies to the end of July, and added a Seniors Men’s tournament in mid-August.”
A few other big changes for the Gladstone Golf and Country Club are they’re going digital and are a part of the Westman Golf Pass.
“We can offer half-price green fees to all the members of the other participating clubs, and our members can play all the other clubs
(included in the pass) at half price. We are now using LightSpeed for tee times, which means anyone looking to play can book ahead of time online. Spike is still running the clubhouse, and the meals he serves up are a huge reason to come out and play at Gladstone.”
Dr. Derek Papegnies
PHOTO BY EOIN DEVEREUX
Classified d Deadline: Tuesday Noon
Classifieds
Livestock
Polled Hereford yearling bulls. Vern Kartanson. Minnedosa. 204-867-7315 or 204-867-2627
Personal
Crisis Pregnancy Centre
Winnipeg: Need to talk? Call our free help line, 1-800-6650570 or contact our Westman office: 204-727-616
Obituary
Celebration of Life for Jayce Larry Spraggs
Beloved son of Colton & Emma Spraggs
Please consider this as your invitation to join Colton, Emma & Robyn as they celebrate the life of their dear Jayce.
This will be a casual indoor/outdoor gathering at the Minnedosa Golf and Country Club on Sat. June 7th from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Please come dressed in colourful, casual attire as we honour Jayce’s incredible life.
Andrew (Andy) Lenders
It is with sad and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather and great grandfather Andrew (Andy) Lenders on May 25, 2025 at the age of 90.
Andy leaves behind his daughter Darlene (Daryl) Nosko and their children Travis (Sarah) Nosko and Afton (Jordan) Goldsmith, son Dwayne Lenders and his children London (Samantha) Lenders, Damon Lenders and Sonja Lenders and daughter-in-law Cynthia Lenders and her son Anthony Lenders. Andy was also great grandpa to Payton Goldsmith, Ava Nosko, Taylor Goldsmith and Wyatt Nosko.
Andy was predeceased by his wife Ruby (nee James) of Ogilvie/Plumas and their son Dale.
Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
• Cancellations and corrections only within business hours and corresponding deadlines
• Please check your ad when firstpublished the Neepawa Banner & Press will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion.
• All copy is subject to approval by the Neepawa Banner & Press.
• We reserve the right to edit copy or to refuse to publish any advertisement we deem illegal, libelous, misleading or offensive
Auctions
Meyers Auctions & Appraisals. Call Brad at 368-2333. www.meyersauctions.com
Coming Events
Expressive Dance with Crystal. Dance classes for 2 yrs and up, Itsy Bitsy Yoga - infant up to toddler. Adult and boys classes offered. Jazz/ hiphop, Tap, Contemporary, Highland, Celtic Irish, Theatrics, Ballet, Couples Dance, Stretch class, Belly dance, Jigging and the Charleston. Summer Dance Camp, July 7 - 11. Registration for both starts Monday, June 9, 4-8 pm at the studio in Minnedosa. For further information call, text or email, Crystal, cell 204-867-2446 or home 204-867-3561, or email at expressivedancewithcrystal@hotmail.com.
Notice
Alanon meetings currently being held at 342 Mountain Ave, Neepawa - Old Co-op Store. Tuesdays at 7 pm. Call 204-841-2192
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings currently being held at 342 Mountain Ave, Neepawa, Thursdays at 7 pm. Call Don 204-856-9072 or Debbi 204352-4065
Arden Hall, cap. 255. Park, camping and sports facilities, rink, curling ice, kitchen and lounge. Call 204-368-2202 Drug problem? Yellowhead Narcotics Anonymous meets Sundays at 7 pm, at the Minnedosa Town Hall basement.
Minnedosa Handivan 204868-8164 Mon-Fri 9:00-3:30
Thank You
The family of Margaret Mitchell wish to extend sincere thanks and appreciation to all those who sent food, flowers,cards, texts, messages, phone calls, made visits and made memorial donations in her memory; to Dr. Bushara, the nurses, health care aides and auxiliary staff at Carberry Health Centre and Personal Care Home for the wonderful care provided to her over the past seven months; to Reverend Emma Seamone for her thoughtful and meaningful service; to White's Funeral Home for their compassion and guidance during a difficult time; to the women of Carberry United Church for providing lunch following the service; to pianist Becky Nikolaisen for playing some of Margaret's favourite old-time dance tunes. Your kindness and thoughtfulness will not be forgotten.
Margaret Grace Mitchell
Margaret Grace Mitchell entered into rest peacefully, with her daughters by her side, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at the Carberry Personal Care Home.
Margaret was born in Carberry on June 2, 1928, the youngest of fivechildren, to Harold and Bertha Waterhouse. They lived on a farm in the Melbourne district, east of Carberry, where the family joined in numerous activities that were held in the small community. Margaret received her elementary education in the Melbourne one room country schoolhouse and then attended high school in Carberry.
After completing school, Margaret found employment at Carberry’s Fox Memorial Hospital where her duties included, but were not limited to, food prep and cooking, housekeeping and laundry. It was during this time, while attending a dance, that she met the love of her life, Robert Mitchell.
Margaret and Robert married on December 1, 1951, and had 66 beautiful years together before Robert’s passing in 2018. When firstmarried, they lived in the village of Douglas for six months, then built their house on the farm east of Douglas. It was in this house that they welcomed and raised their fivechildren, and it was filled with love and laughter.
Robert and Margaret operated a mixed farm near Douglas growing grain and raising cattle. They made a great team on the farm with Robert handling the fieldwork and cattle and Margaret running the household. In 1996 they retired from the farm to Carberry, purchasing a house large enough to accommodate the entire family on holidays or other special occasions. In 2011 they downsized again, selling their house and moving into a Carberry apartment where they resided until Robert’s passing in 2018. After his passing, Margaret moved to Rotary Villas Assisted Living
Notice
Neepawa Banner & Press offers full research and re-print services from our archives that go back to 1896. Additional copies of papers, $2 each depending on availability. Re-print of a page from past copies, $2 per page. Archival research, $25 per hour with a $10 minimum. Individual photos on photo paper $5 depending if we have a suitable original in our digital, print or photo archives. Ken Waddell, publisher
For Sale or Rent
All word classifieds must be prepaid before printing
For Sale
Storage vans (semi trailers) for rent or sale. Anderson's 204-385-2685, 204-3852997 Gladstone
2000 John Deere 7410 with 740 loader, 5048 original hours, heavy duty front axle, always shedded. 2021 John Deere mower Conditioner with discs + impellers, cut 1000 acres, always shedded. 2015 Summers Heavy Harrows, 36 feet, done 5000 acres. Phone or Text 204476-0364
2014 Chev Equinox LT2. 6 cylinder. Call Bill, cell 204623-2411 in Minnedosa.
Notice
For Sale
For Sale - One Traditional Cemetery Plot - Neepawa Cemetery. Phone 1-204441-6071
For Rent
Apartment for rent. Bri-Mont apartments, 331 Mountain Avenue. Phone 204-8414419
Were you a student, a parent/guardian of a student, or staff in Beautiul Plains School Division from September 2021 to 2024?
If so, please visit
https://www.beautifulplainssd.ca/uploads/9/6/3/0/9630957/may_2025_communication_to_parents.pdf for details of a cybersecurity incident experienced by a software provider called PowerSchool that may affect your personal information.
NOTICE OF APPLICATION MUNICIPALITY OF WESTLAKE-GLADSTONE REVISED WATER AND WASTEWATER RATES PLUMAS WATER AND WASTEWATER UTILITY
May 13, 2025
The Municipality of Westlake-Gladstone (Municipality) has applied to the Public Utilities Board (Board) for revised water and wastewater rates for Plumas Water and Wastewater Utility (Utility) as set out in By-law No. 2024-05, read the firsttime on October 16, 2024. Rates were last approved in 2019 in Board Order No. 153/19, with rates coming into effect January 1, 2021. There were subsequent pass-through water purchase price increases from Yellowhead Regional Water Coop, with the most recent rate increase coming into effect April 1, 2022.
The current and proposed rates are as follows:
community in Brandon.
While on the farm, Margaret spent many hours cooking, baking, gardening and preserving fresh vegetables and fruit. Any spare time was spent on her favourite hobby, knitting. Many beautiful and intricate sweaters, blankets, hats and slippers were created by her skill with knitting needles. Once retired, she had much more time to devote to her craft, including knitting blankets for each of her fivechildren’s 50th birthdays and for each of her ten grandchildren’s high school graduations.
Margaret was a strong and resilient woman and had many struggles that she had to overcome in her almost 97 years. She lost a grandson, her husband and her son in the span of three years, which took its toll on her. She also had to deal with gradually losing her eyesight over several years. But through it all she was determined to stay independent and only entered personal care last year.
Margaret’s funeral service was held on Thursday, May 22nd in Carberry United Church with Reverend Emma Seamone officiating,interment in Carberry Plains Cemetery. Carrying Margaret to her finalresting place were her six granddaughters Britney Morrish, Stacey Bickford, Tressa Carritt, Andrea Mitchell, Kennedy Woitas and Jensyn Woitas. Honorary pallbearers were her four grandsons Greg Mitchell, Michael Mitchell, Zach Fowles (now reunited with Grandma) and Keean McLaren.
Margaret will be dearly missed by her four daughters, Sharon (Ritchie) Bickford, Heather (Earl) McLaren, Gail Mitchell, and Debbie (Joe) Woitas; daughter-in-law Shelley Mitchell, nine grandchildren and ten great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews and their families.
Margaret was a kind and gentle soul, who will now be reunited with her loved ones who went before her –grandson Zach (2017), husband Robert (2018) and son Glen (2020); her parents, her siblings and their spouses.
Those wishing to honour Margaret’s memory may do so with a donation to Fighting Blindness Canada, www.fightingblindness.ca
White’s Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
*Based on 14 cubic meters
Details of the Municipality’s application are available for review at the Municipal officeor the Public Utilities Board’s office. Any questions concerning the application for revised rates, or the operation of the Utility, should be sent directly to the Municipality.
If you have concerns/comments regarding the Municipality of Westlake-Gladstone’s application for water and wastewater rates, please go to www.pubmanitoba.ca and provide your comment. Please note all comments will be forwarded to the Municipality.
Questions or comments should be sent on or before June 27, 2025.
The Public Utilities Board is the provincial regulatory agency that reviews and approves rates for water and wastewater utilities in Manitoba, with the exception of the City of Winnipeg. The Board’s review process involves:
• the Utility filing a rate application to the Board
• a public notification of proposed rate changes
• the Board’s review of the application through a public hearing or paper review process, and
• the issuance of an Order which outlines the Board’s decision on the rate application and the rates to be charged.
The Manitoba Ombudsman has privacy guidelines for administrative tribunals. The Board is mindful of its obligations under those guidelines. Its decisions in respect of the application being considered will be sensitive to the guidelines. Personal information will not be disclosed unless it is appropriate and necessary to do so. However, the Board advises participants that these proceedings are public and that as a result, personal information protections are reduced.
The Board will then decide whether any further notice is required and whether to proceed with a public hearing or paper review process. All concerns received by the Board will be considered in the Board’s decision on rates to be charged.
PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT IN CONSIDERING THIS APPLICATION, THE PUBLIC UTILITIES BOARD MAY OR MAY NOT FIND IT NECESSARY TO DETERMINE RATES DIFFERENT FROM THOSE APPLIED FOR BY THE APPLICANT.
Note: All proceedings will be conducted in accordance with the Board’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, which the Board may vary in order to constrain regulatory costs. The Rules are available at www.pubmanitoba.ca.
Jennifer Dubois, CPA, CMA, CTAJ
Assistant Associate Secretary
Manitoba Public Utilities Board
UPCOMING EVENTS
FOODS
Industrial Plant Cleaner (NOC 65312)
Why join our team?
HyLife is a global leader in food processing, with a vision to be the best food company in the world. To achieve this, we are currently expanding our team and have exciting career opportunities at 623 Main St. Neepawa, MB. We are actively seeking to fill 10 positions.
The current starting wage is $22.20/hour with incremental increases to $23.55/hour based on tenure as per our Collective Agreement
Quick Facts:
• Culturally diverse – employ people from all over the world
• Fully integrated facility –Feed Mills, Barns, Transportation, and Production Plant
• 2500+ employees worldwide
• We Care about our employees, communities, customers, animals, and our environment
What we can offer you:
• Competitive Wage
• Vacation: 10 working days of paid vacation as per our collective bargaining agreement
• Comprehensive Benefitspackage – health coverage, dental plan, vision care, long-term disability, and pension plan
• Permanent full-time employment (74-80 hours per bi-weekly)
• PM Shift
• Full training, with genuine opportunities for career progression
• Employee Referral program - $500!
• Free parking
• Company events
• And more!!!! Your duties may include:
• Cleaning and sanitizing butcher and slaughter production areas and everything in between to ensure top-quality food safety standards.
• Operating cleaning equipment like high-pressure hoses to clean production equipment.
• Using cleaning chemicals with respect and following Material Safety Data Sheets.
• Ensuring all Quality Assurance checks are performed.
• Maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work area throughout the facility.
• Collaborating as a team to meet tight deadlines, ensuring production floors operate on time
We are looking for people who are:
• Fit and capable of working in a physically demanding role. Capable of bending, lifting, and climbing.
• Available to work an 8-hour Night Shift from MondayFriday, between 11:15 PM to 9:00 AM
• Capable of repetitive manual tasks and standing for long periods of time
• Capable of working in diverse environments, including exposure to varying temperatures, humidity, and odors
• Minimum of one (1) to seven (7) months experience in sanitation, or industrial cleaning, or heavy-duty cleaning
• Completion of Secondary school or equivalent experience
• Able to effectively communicate in English
• At least 18 years old to meet the minimum age requirement
HyLife is dedicated to promoting equal employment opportunities for all job applicants, including those who identify as a member of the following groups: Indigenous people, Newcomers to Canada, Older workers, Veterans, and Visible minorities.
Ways to apply: Online at http://hylife.com/careers/ or mail to PO Box 10,000, 623 Main St E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0. Fax to: 204.476.3791 | Email to: jobs@hylife.com | In Person at 623 Main ST. E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0
For inquiries contact: Phone: 204.476.3393
H yL ife has an accommodation process for employees with disabilities. If you require a specific accommodation during your employment because of a disability, please contact Jobs@hylife.com. An HR representative will be in touch with you as soon as possible. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis and our accommodation policy can be forwarded upon request.
Be a part of the HyLife experience
– your journey starts here!
We thank all applicants, however, only those under consideration will be contacted
NOTICES
Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Manitoba Community Newspaper Association and membership do not 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.
Help Wanted
FOODS
Hog Receiving Barn Worker (NOC85100)
Why join our team?
HyLife is a global leader in food processing, with a vision to be the best food company in the world. To achieve this, we are currently expanding our team and have exciting career opportunities at 623 Main St. Neepawa, MB. We are actively seeking to fill 5 positions.
The current starting wage is $19.25/hour with incremental increases to $20.55/hour based on tenure
Quick Facts:
• Culturally diverse – employ people from all over the world
• Fully integrated facility –Feed Mills, Barns, Transportation, and Production Plant
• 2500+ employees worldwide
• We Care about our employees, communities, customers, animals, and our environment
What we can offer you:
• Competitive Wage
• Vacation: 10 working days of paid vacation
• Comprehensive Benefitspackage – health coverage, dental plan, vision care, long-term disability, and pension plan
• Permanent full-time employment (74-80 hours per bi-weekly)
• PM Shift Premium
• Full training, with genuine opportunities for career progression
• Employee Referral program - $500!
• Free parking
• Company events
• And more!!!!
Your duties may involve:
• Receiving and unloading hog deliveries.
• Sorting hogs into appropriate receiving pens.
• Ensuring humane and safe handling of hogs in our facility.
• Completing hog receiving documents to CFIA standards.
• Scraping trailers.
• Working outdoors and in a barn environment.
To excel in this role, you should possess:
• Respect for animal welfare, food safety, and workplace safety. Understanding of animal behavior
• Capable of working in diverse environments, including exposure to varying temperatures, humidity, and odors
• Minimum of one (1) to seven (7) months experience working with livestock
• Fit and capable of working in a physically demanding role. Capable of bending, lifting, and crawling
• Completion of Secondary school or equivalent experience
• Capable of repetitive manual tasks
• Able to effectively communicate in English
• At least 18 years old to meet the minimum age requirement
HyLife i s dedicated to promoting equal employment opportunities for all job applicants, including those who identify as a member of the following groups: Indigenous people, Newcomers to Canada, Older workers, Veterans, and Visible minorities.
Ways to apply:
Online at http://hylife.com/careers/ or mail to PO Box 10,000, 623 Main St E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0. Fax to: 204.476.3791 | Email to: jobs@hylife.com |
In Person at 623 Main ST. E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0
For inquiries contact: Phone: 204.476.3393
HyLife has an accommodation process for employees with disabilities. If you require a specific accommodation during your employment because of a disability, please contact Jobs@hylife.com. An HR representative will be in touch with you as soon as possible. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis and our accommodation policy can be forwarded upon request.
Be a part of the HyLife experience – your journey starts here!
We thank all applicants, however, only those under consideration will be contacted
URGENT PRESS RELEAS-
ES - Have a newsworthy item to announce? An exciting change in operations? 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. See www.mcna.com
under the “Types of Advertising” tab for more details.
NEED CLASS 1 DRIVERS? SUMMER HIRING? SELLING SOMETHING?
Jump on our great prices and start getting responses! Book your blanket classifiedads, seen in the 31 Member Newspapers which are seen in over 368,000+ homes in Manitoba. Please Call THIS NEWSPAPER NOW to ADVERTISE, or call MCNA at (204) 947-1691 for more details or to book ads. MCNA - Manitoba Community Newspapers Association. www.mcna.com
Help Wanted
FOODS
Industrial Butcher (NOC 94141)
Why join our team?
HyLife is a global leader in food processing, with a vision to be the best food company in the world. To achieve this, we are currently expanding our team and have exciting career opportunities at 623 Main St. Neepawa, MB. We are actively seeking to fill 150 positions.
The current starting wage is $16.45/hour with incremental increases to $24.60/hour based on tenure as per our Collective Agreement
Quick Facts:
• Culturally diverse – employ people from all over the world
• Fully integrated facility –Feed Mills, Barns, Transportation, and Production Plant
• 2500+ employees worldwide
• We Care about our employees, communities, customers, animals, and our environment
What we can offer you:
• Competitive Wage
• Vacation: 10 working days of paid vacation as per our collective bargaining agreement
• Comprehensive Benefitspackage – health coverage, dental plan, vision care, long-term disability, and pension plan
• Permanent full-time employment (74-80 hours per bi-weekly)
• PM Shift Premium
• Full training, with genuine opportunities for career progression
• Employee Referral program - $500!
• Free parking
• Company events
• And more!!!!
Your duties may include:
• Slaughter, eviscerate, and mark hogs for further processing;
• Debone edible parts and remove inedible organs for parts;
• Cut pork carcasses into primal cuts for further processing, cutting, or packaging for local, national, and international premium markets.
We are looking for people who are:
• Fit and capable of working in a physically demanding role
• Capable of repetitive manual tasks and standing for long periods of time
• Open to working in colder/warmer environments
• Minimum of one (1) to seven (7) months experience in meat cutting or slaughter or completed a program in Industrial Meat cutting
• Completion of Secondary school or equivalent experience
• Able to effectively communicate in English
HyLife is dedicated to promoting equal employment opportunities for all job applicants, including those who identify as a member of the following groups: Indigenous people, Newcomers to Canada, Older workers, Veterans, and Visible minorities.
Ways to apply:
Online at http://hylife.com/careers/ or mail to PO Box 10,000, 623 Main St E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0. Fax to: 204.476.3791 | Email to: jobs@hylife.com |
In Person at 623 Main ST. E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0
For inquiries contact: Phone: 204.476.3393
HyLife has an accommodation process for employees with disabilities. If you require a specific accommodation during your employment because of a disability, please contact Jobs@hylife.com. An HR representative will be in touch with you as soon as possible. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis and our accommodation policy can be forwarded upon request.
Be a part of the HyLife experience
– your journey starts here!
We thank all applicants, however, only those under consideration will be contacted
PROPERTY FOR SALE / LAND FOR SALE / REAL ESTATE
Nice 20-acre retirement or subdividing opportunity 4 miles west of Brandon on paved road. 1,572 sq.ft. home including appliances, wheelchair accessible, 1-level, attached garage. Also, additional adjoining subdivided 5-acre lot. Immediate possession, private sale. $750,000.00. Call 1-204-723-0083 for appointment to view, anytime.
YOU ARE INVITED! Manitoba Highland Gathering - June 21 & 22, 2025 in East Selkirk, MB. Swords, Heavies, Paddling, Highland Dance, Pipes & Drums, Villages, Cars, Animals, Market & Food, Unicorns (Sunday only)! https://manitobahighlandgathering.org
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228 www. firstandsecondmortgages.c
FEED AND SEED
FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.
Letter: Rural Canada deserves better
Continued from Page 5 Neepawa, a growing community, is struggling to meet its housing demands. Thanks to its booming agri-food sector and a growing immigrant population, Neepawa has become an economic success story. However, the town is now facing a housing crisis. Affodable homes are in short supply, leaving families and workers scrambling for accommodations. This is not just a local issue - it’s a problem that could hinder economic growth and discourage new investments in the region. Neepawa’s challenges require immediate funding to expand water and sewer systems that can support new housing developments. These basic infrastructure needs are prerequisites for the town’s continued growth and prosperity. Where is the federal
government when communities that want to grow need them most?
On May 27, the Throne Speech delivered by King Charles III made no mention of infrastructure. In fact, none of the words “rural”, “western”, “Manitoba”, or “infrastructure” were mentioned in the speech a single time. On May 29, the Liberal government tabled a 486 billion dollar spending bill; again, little to no mention of western communities or rural infrastructure.
The federal Liberal government’s inaction on these issues is unacceptable. Rural communities are not asking for special treatment– they are asking for their fair share of federal funding to address essential needs. Housing, water, and wastewater infrastructure are not luxuries;
they are necessities that enable communities to thrive, attract new residents, and contribute to Canada’s economy. It’s time for the federal government to wake up to the needs of rural Canada. The challenges faced by our rural municipalities are emblematic of broader issues that require immediate attention. Investments in rural infrastructure are not optional - they are critical to ensuring that rural Canadians can continue to build strong, vibrant communities. Ottawa must prioritize these issues, or risk further alienating the very people who keep our country fed, powered, and thriving. Rural Canada deserves better, and it’s time for this government to deliver.
Levi Cottingham Birtle, MB
Neepawa Rotary donates to ArtsForward
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Neepawa Rotary treasurer, Murray Newton, presents a cheque to Yvonne Sisley, ArtsForward administrator. The Neepawa Rotary Club recently donated $3000 to ArtsForward to help cover costs of their recent renovations. ArtsForward converted one of their washrooms into a wheelchair accessible room. They also replaced flooring in the entrance, boutique and offic as well as the stage, hallway, and one of the rooms used for music lessons. ArtsForward is in the midst of a sponsorship campaign to help cover costs of programming and special events.
Happy Father’s Day
Celebrate Dad! - Sunday, June 15
Gifts for Dad he’s certain to enjoy
Father’s Day celebrations began on June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington. However, it wasn’t until 1972 that a day honouring fathers became a national holiday. Since then, children have been trying to figure out how they can show their dads and other father figures in their lives just how much they are appreciated. Plenty of hugs and high fives are customary on Father’s Day, but gifts also get the spotlight on this holiday, which is held on the third Sunday in June each year.
Each year families ponder what to get the man who seemingly has everything. These Father’s Day gifts are certain to please Dad this year.
Gaming gifts
The joy of gaming may not wane as Dad gets older. Once a gamer, always a gamer, and gifts that cater to Dad’s love of play can be winners. Pay attention to the release dates of games that Dad wants to play, and then make sure to grab them before they sell out. Peripherals that can enhance gaming also can be ideal gifts. These include Bluetooth headphones with microphone, controller charging stations, light-up keyboards, or a comfortable gaming chair.
Sports tickets
Experiential gifts continue to win rave reviews, as people increasingly are finding that adding more “stuff” to their lives does not equate to happiness. Rather, gifts that focus on experiences instead of material things can produce lasting memories. Father’s Day is a good time to grab tickets to an upcoming sports game, whether it’s a high-profile Major League Baseball
game at the stadium, a local event or overseas affair. June and July feature Formula 1 racing, the Worldwide International Cricket Matches, the MLB All Star Game, the Tour de France, Wimbledon, and more.
Cookout supplies
If Dad is the resident outdoor chef, adding to his assortment of cooking gear can be the perfect way to show love and affection on Father’s Day. While grills and smokers may get much of the attention, a tabletop pizza oven or outdoor griddle might be
welcome additions as well.
Fishing gear
The warm weather of the summer presents plenty of opportunities for anglers to reel in trophy catches. Fathers who love to fish can always use some additions to their tackle boxes, new reels and rods.
Dear dads,
Choose the correct items for the type of fish he typically goes for, as fishing for striped bass requires different gear that fishing for fluke.
Father’s Day gifting is made easier with some shopping inspiration.
Thank you for reading the paper so religiously that it’s basically a stereotype!
IMAGE COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION