Learn to Fish event success
By Carolyn Phillips Rivers Banner
This past Saturday, the serene and beautiful Lake Wahtopanah transformed
into a hub of excitement as families gathered for the annual
“Learn to Fish” event. With weather conditions just right for a fun-filled day on the ice, the event attracted nineteen eager young participants, ranging from just two months old to ten years of age, alongside their enthusiastic parents and grandparents.
As the sun shone brightly, anticipation filled the air. Every youth participant was provided with a special package, which included colorful jigs, a fish identification booklet, a kid-friendly fishing activity book, and of course, a sweet treat of candy to keep their spirits high. The organizers knew that a well-fed group is a happy group, so they also served complimentary hot chocolate and delicious cookies, ensuring everyone felt warm and energized throughout the two-hour event.
The heart of the day’s activities revolved around hands-on learning. Members of RAGF (Regional Anglers and Great Fishers) played a crucial role, leading the instruction on ice fishing techniques. They assisted the young anglers with drilling holes into the frozen lake, baiting hooks — thanks to the supplies generously provided by R.W. Baits — and demonstrating the use of modern fishing aids like flashers and underwater cameras. Their expertise and enthusiasm helped every participant become more familiar with the best practices of ice fishing, making this day educational and unforgettable.
In addition to the engaging learning experience, the excitement of a giveaway added to the event’s appeal. Every child was entered into a free draw for one of five ice rod and reel combos, generously donated by South West Wildlife Group and Riverdale Municipality. The winners were announced at the end of the event: Avery Froese, Emery Cronkrite, Nicholas Pulak, Adeline Kuipers, and Chester Keenan, a lucky visitor all the way from England!
Although the group didn’t manage to reel in any fish on this occasion — a few nibbles and “booters” were reported, but nothing substantial — the joy and laughter shared among the participants was undoubtedly more rewarding. No equipment or sunglasses were sacrificed to the icy depths of Lake Wahtopanah, a small miracle in itself for a day spent learning and practicing a sport known for its unpredictability.
The atmosphere was filled with positivity and a sense of community, as families bonded over their shared experiences on the ice. It was refreshing to see children engaged in outdoor activities, thus igniting a passion for fishing that could last a lifetime.
As the day concluded, one sentiment echoed among participants: they were all eagerly looking forward to the upcoming Fish Derby scheduled for Saturday, March 8. With their newfound knowledge and skills, participants left with high hopes of a successful fishing experience next time, eager to test what they had learned.
This memorable event not only fostered a love for fishing but also reinforced the importance of outdoor family activities and community support. Here’s hoping for even bigger and better fishing adventures in the future!
PHOTOS BY CAROLYN PHILLIPS
Children from two months old to ten years old tried to catch some fish on Saturday, February 22.
Showing the kids the bait before putting it on the hook for fishing on Saturday, February 22.
Provincial winners U18 Jets and Huskies
By Robin Wark Rivers Banner
The U18 Rivers Jets female hockey squad got to enjoy a unique experience - winning a championship at home.
The Jets won the gold medals in the Female U18 Rural B provincial tournament, which was held in Rivers Feb. 20-23. The hosts bested the Brandon Wheaties, 2-1, in the final game.
“It was special,” Rivers head coach Trevor Peters said. “For six of the girls on this team, this is their graduating year, so especially special for them to play their last provincials in their own rink and then to come away with Gold medals makes it that much more special.
The event in Rivers also included the female Rural A provincial tournament. The Hamiota Huskies claimed gold by beating the South Central Rockets, 4-1. It was the first time this season that the Huskies had beat the Rockets.
“Last year Hamiota and Rivers joined towns to form the ‘Jetskies,’” Peters said. “We were a very tight group.
However, this year we were able to make two teams in the league without joining. It was quite disappointing to the players on the teams from last year, especially the graduating players. However, I know how loud our girls were cheering for Hamiota during their final as well as Hamiota cheering for us during ours. For both groups to come with gold is amazing and special for both teams.”
The Rivers team opened its tournament with a 3-1 loss to Brandon. It beat Cross Lake 25-0 and got past Southwest 3-1 win. In their final pool contest, the Jets defeated Westman, 3-1. Against the Wheaties in the final game, the Jets’ Brandon opponent took an early first period lead.
“But our girls used that as fuel and went back to playing our style of game,” Peters said. “Got the pucks in deep, got lots of shots and made sure we had lots of bodies in front of the goalie and we were hard on the rebounds. Any shots that Brandon did get on our goalie were handled by our goaltender.”
Austyn Peters backstopped the Jets to the win. Ffion
Devonald was Rivers’ player of the game. Coach Peters said that at provincials he was pleased with the team’s hard work and never give up attitude.
“Every game that we played this weekend, the effort level from all players was 110 per cent,” he said. “Even our first game of the tournament that we lost, I would love to know the shot count to know how lopsided the shots ended up for us. Brandons goalie faced and stopped a lot of pucks that game.”
The Grand Plains Ice Dogs shut out the Birtle Bruiskies, 3-0, for bronze in Rural A. The Westman Falcons beat the Southwest Stars, 5-3, for bronze in Rural B.
The A and B provincial tournaments featured a combined skills competition. Rivers netminder Austyn Peters won the shootout - goalie award. Devonald was the second fastest skater behind Grand Plains’ Montana Jubenvill. Hamiota’s Tristin McTavish won the accuracy shooting event. Carli Durston of Grand Plains had the hardest shot. Birtle’s Khloe Brown was the shootout - shooter winner.
Players: Chloe Duncan, Haily Johns, Alyssa Kirk, Alyshia McKinnon, Emma Martin, Brooke Facey, Karli Knight, Taylor Lawn, Hannah Robson, Mya McDonald, Kayleigh Knight, Claire Ramsey, Chloe McKinnon, Tristin McTavish, Signe Erven, Mandy Anderson. Coach: Jason McTavish, Matthew Ramsey, Briana McDonald. Manager Kevin Kirk.
Front L-R: Molly Studer, Karas Munz, Ffion Devonald, Austyn Peters, Jasmyne Andries, Elle Mclean. Back L-R: Asst coach – Mark Mcdonald, Ceanna Mitchell, Brooklyn Boyd, Celeste Mcdonald, Mylie Vandal, Kayee Klassen, Head Coach- Trevor Peters, Kinley Peters, Calle Peters, Prestyn Phinney, Asst Coach – Sadie Quane. Missing: Callie Stuart
FAITHFULLY YOURS
Neil StrohScheiN
On faith and trust
This has been an amazing month. Our Prime Minister announced his intention to resign. Several high profile members of the governing party are running to replace him; and suddenly (some might say miraculously), they all seem prepared to either cancel or significantly modify Canada’s tax on carbon. While most Canadians are encouraged to hear that, we are also wondering what will replace it. One of the most valuable lessons life teaches us is that promises are easy to make; but can be hard to keep. That is true of politicians, of business people, of community leaders and of ordinary people like you and me. None of us will ever find keeping our promises to be as easy as making them. That’s life.
Six hundred years before Jesus’ time on earth, a prophet named Jeremiah wrote these words: “Cursed are those who trust in mere mortals and make mere flesh their strength, whose hearts turn away from the LORD...Blessed are those who trust in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD.” (Jeremiah 17:5, 7)
Dr. Howard Hendricks, late Professor Emeritus of education as Dallas Theological Seminary, tells of a student who approached him after class and posed what he called one of the most insightful questions he had ever been asked. “Prof,” the student said, “Have you ever known of any person in all of church history; a person who was mightily used by God to touch and change the lives of many, who did not have glaring personal weaknesses?” Hendricks thought for a while and
then said: “No, I don’t.”
In my lifetime, I have met many brilliant people. Some are well educated, with multiple post graduate degrees. Some are self-taught. Their knowledge comes from years of reading, personal research, career specific seminars and on-the-job training. Their talent, creativity and expertise in their chosen field is second to none.
But the highly educated and the self-taught share one thing in common with the rest of us. We don’t know everything, we can’t do everything and we aren’t always right. The only one who possesses those qualities is Almighty God.
Our weaknesses should never be seen as signs of God’s displeasure with us. He made us weak to teach us the importance of recognizing strengths in others and working together with them to achieve things we could never achieve alone. And by honestly acknowledging our own weaknesses, we will not be so quick to criticize the weaknesses we see in others. We will ask ourselves how we would feel if we were in their position and people said the same things about us.
In a few weeks, we will know who has been chosen as our next Prime Minister. This coming October (maybe sooner) Canadians will vote in a general election and decide which political party will form our next government, pick our next Prime Minister and lead our country for the next four years. I am trusting Canadians to chose a party and Prime Minister who will set political ideologies aside and act in the best interests of every citizen; not just those who voted for them on election day.
But if Canadians choose a party and PM with whose policies I don’t agree, I won’t be joining those who will predict doom, gloom and disaster for our country. I will trust our leaders to do what is best for us all. But may faith is in the God who has supplied all my needs for over 70 years, and who I know won’t ever let me down.
Tara Kauenhofen
My great grandmother was 100 when she graduated to heaven in 2015.
I can remember visiting her and the smell of her green coated peppermints on the coffee table that had been left open knowing we were coming, homemade pickles and bread, the Chinese checkers board set out with care ready to whoop our butts with her many years of practice are all fond fond memories!
But as I ponder back on these memories, I think of the stories she told of years gone by, a lifetime ago, another world it would seem from the one I knew and was growing up in.
My mind would be flooded with images of horse drawn carriages, one room schoolhouses, railways being built, horses hauling steam engines across the raw and wild prairies.
Pushing, pulling progress forward into the future whether it was kicking and screaming
Or with joy.
Progress was inevitable.
But what I have realized now as an adult, looking back, is that for all the progress made, we lost so much in the process.
In two generations of growth there was a whole way of life that was lost.
Growing food and working hard with your hands to provide.
Hunting and gathering.
Fellowshipping as a family.
Trading posts and community.
These things have thankfully started to slowly make a comeback in some circles and for some (like myself) I was blessed enough to have parents who taught me these values and this way of life and how carrying on these skills was actually a way to honour those that came before me.
Making sure the legacy of those who bled and died for this country, who poured their blood, sweat and tears out on the soil to tame this wild and raw land and work along side it to make it a home is kept in tact.
My deep fervent prayer is that more people come to an equilibrium when it comes to progress and honouring our ancestors and history.
That we start to explore with deep curiosity the way of life that was the steppingstones to getting us where we are today and in our own way, adopt some of these ways back into our lives.
Bring back deep friendship and fellowship, bring back trading skills to bless others, bring back teaching a friend a skill they don’t have, bring back community suppers and gratefulness.
Bring back remembering and honouring the legacy of how progress became.
St James Anglican Church Pancake and Sausage supper with a variety of toppings
Perspectives
Tundra
By Chad Carpenter
I’d rather see ice in the rink, not on the road
It’s the peak of hockey season at every level in this part of the world. Earlier this month, millions of Canadian hockey fans held their breath while Canada beat the United States at the Four Nations Face-off. Canada beating the U.S. at hockey always sits well with Canadian hockey fans but given the political tension being caused by the American president, the Canadian victory was just that much sweeter.
The older level teams in our papers’ coverage are all hitting the ice with vigour these days. At the time of this writing (Feb. 23, 2025) the Virden Oil Capitals are battling for a playoff spot, while the Neepawa Titans have already secured their place in the MJHL’s post-season.
As for over in the Tiger Hills Hockey League, the Rivers Jets, Minnedosa Bombers, Virden Oil Kings and Neepawa Farmers are all still involved in their league’s post-season play. And all still representing their communities proudly.
On this particular day, my wife and I were planning to drive two hours to see a great-grandson play in his league tournament. Unfortunately, heavy fog and ice made the decision to keep us two old(er) folks off the road. Guess we will try and keep in touch by way of the newly acquired Live Barn video service that is in most rural arenas now. It’s not the same as being there, but it sure beats driving two hours in the fog. It’s a busy week ahead for me and when I heard that a second vehicle in our family succumbed to a deer strike, that pretty much made the decision to make the stay-
Right in the Centre
Ken Waddell
at-home call.
And speaking of deer versus vehicles, our first vehicle in the family this year to be victimized by a wayward deer will have been out of service for four months by the time we get it back on the road. I am told that body shops are backed up with dozens of vehicles at this time and I have also been told it’s all across the province. It is partly because MPIC (Autopac) has made some bad computer decisions and wasted $millions in the process. I knew Autopac, and by extension their customers, were in trouble when Autopac decided to downplay the role of their agents and offer a computerized on-line service so customers could renew policies themselves, make claims and changes. Yeah right! That’s all we need is less personalized customer service and more automated on-line junk. It didn’t work, it annoyed Autopac’s very important agents and was a total flop for customers. A recent, relatively simple policy cancellation that I had to make took at least 20 minutes at the agent’s office and two phone calls to the Autopac help desk. The final answer was new and unusual even for the help desk person and was very difficult to put
into effect. I am not the brightest bulb when it comes to computers but I have been using them to make a living for over 35 years and there’s no way I would have gotten that transaction done without an agent and the help desk.
Anyway, back to hockey, it’s more fun than wrecked cars and Autopac.
In every arena at this time of year there are playoffs and tournaments. Local and regional hockey has been a great way to get past the chilling days of January and February for decades now. This season is good for families, for communities and for business. Arena lunch counters, restaurants, hotels and gas stations can all thank hockey for a bit of mid-winter prosperity,
So from International hockey to the TimBits and every age in between, I wish you a good safe hockey and travels. Spring is coming, you can tell by the weather and by the season’s activities we all love.
Drive safe and play safe.
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.
Rita Friesen Homebodies
Weebles Wobble…
This past decade, heck, my whole live long life!, I have felt like a Weeble. What is a Weeble? For my generation, and I concede that in today’s world the world may have an entirely different connotation, a weeble was/is a child’s toy person that had a weighted bottom. They rocked, swayed, staggered and rolled but always ended upright. The other comparison would be a toy my children played with; an inflated clown with a weighted bottom and could be punched and whacked and after ducking and weaving, returned to the upright position. Ours was known as Boppo. Commonality is, of course, the weighted bottom providing stability!
The weighted bottom is also one of my commonalities with both the Weeble and Boppo. There have been times in life when I have definitely identified more strongly with the clown! Times when life went so sideways that rather than crying, hysterical laughter erupted. The Weebles were a much more sedate image than the clown, appearing more real than ludicrous. Much like vast portions of my life, and probably of anyone’s life.
How many times does life go according to our plan? So many of my generation grew up with the dream of secondary education, marriage, family, career- not always in that order. Tried as I might, and I wrote the blessed exam for European History 100 three times! I was not able to have a diploma for completing grade twelve. That, and choices, changed the trajectory of my life. My first marriage, ended in divorce, and I became a single parent with two dependants. I was in no way aware of abusive or alcoholism, until it became a part of my life. I choose to live in safety. First in my family, my faith family and my community to be an official single parent. A heck of a lot of bobbing and weaving, all Boppo!
Second marriage, combined households, four children aged six to thirteen, no real courting time, simply married with children. Thankfully my husband, not only older than I, was wiser than I! Negotiating those years we were a family of Weebles! How do you adjust to have siblings you don’t even know, changing your place in a family unit, using the terms ‘mom’ and ‘dad’ for strangers? Yup, I recognise there was a whole lot of swaying, staggering and bobbling, for all of us.
I keep thinking that life must get easier. And there are smooth places– delightful lengthy even paths I wanderhowever the challenges simply change. Years ago the sciatic nerve on my right side was damaged by a misplaced medical injection. Part of my daily routine includes a particular set of exercises to allow me continued easy, pain free, use of my leg. That’s a Weeble I live with. Now I am, like many others, waiting for an appointment to have the progress of my cataracts. More swaying, not dangerously, just a bit off balance. All things considered, for an older person I’m in wonderful condition with a fabulous support system!
The weight that keeps me grounded, keeps me upright, and ready for the next assault, is always my faith in a loving God. That’s grounded.
Ref Memories
Ref to writer
Gerry Nolan
In 1995 I was having big time issues with my back. I had missed the last couple of weeks in the playoff games last season and I started to think of calling it quits.
In the new season, my sciatic nerve started to hurt. It was hard to bend over to tie my skates and tougher yet when you got bumped along the boards or breaking up a scuffle. I started to cancel assignments and really started to come face-to-face with retiring from officiating.
When I was younger, I saw too many guys stay on the ice to officiate when their prime was well passed. I did not want that to happen to me. I was going to leave when I was ready.
One night in Elkhorn when I was doing lines I was breaking up a scuffle and my back spasmed. I could barely move. I thought, why am I out here? This is no fun anymore. This was in November of 1995.
With a lot of hard thought, I knew it was time and I was okay
with that. I had done probably 2000 games and considered myself fortunate to work as many games as I had. I had met so many wonderful hockey people in that time. I was blessed to work that long. January 10, I refereed my last game in Birtle. They were playing Miniota. It was the 20year anniversary of the Birtle arena
The game in itself was a walk in the park, just 2 teams playing the game. I had also started letting people know I was hanging up the skates and putting away my whistle. January 17 was my last game. It was in Virden, as Virden were playing Minnedosa that evening. The game was a very easy game, no silly stuff going on.
As I was skating off the ice I thought well I am done, it has been a slice and headed to the official dressing room. After the game many of my fellow officials from Virden came in to shake hands and congratulate me on a solid
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Information available from vwilson@inetlinkwireless.ca
Creamy Pork Stew
Ingredients:
2 1/2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
salt & pepper to taste
2 tbsps vegetable oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped 3 cloves minced garlic
1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice 2 tbsps apple cider vinegar
2 tbsps Dijon mustard 1 tbsp prepared horseradish
1 1/4 cups heavy cream 4 sage leaves
1/4 cup chicken broth(more as needed) 2 sprigs thyme
2 small sprigs fresh rosemary 1 dried bay leaf
1 cup sliced carrots
career. It was a great way to leave the game that I love so much! I think that night I even sold my referee sweater to Cory Flecknor, so there was no turning back.
A few days after my last game, I received a phone call from Garth Mitchell in Elkhorn. He said I hear you are not going to officiate anymore. I said yes that is right. He asked me if I was sure about that, and I said yes, I am sure. His next sentence to me was one I have never forgotten. Garth said, “Well that is sad, we need more officials like Gerry Nolan not less.”
This was without a doubt the biggest compliment I had ever received. Garth is one of the most respected hockey people in all of Manitoba. Brings a tear to my eye just thinking about that phone call. Thank you Garth!
1 stalk celery, sliced
1 pinch cayenne pepper 1/2 cup green peas
1/4 cup matchstick-cut apple strips 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
Directions:
1. Season pork chunks generously with salt and pepper. Toss to distribute seasonings evenly.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over high heat. Brown pork in batches so meat isn’t crowded, about 7 minutes per batch. Transfer pork to a plate.
3. Place onions into the same pot; cook and stir until translucent and the edges brown, 3 or 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in apple cider and apple cider vinegar.
4. Increase the heat to high and stir in mustard and horseradish. Transfer browned pork pieces back to the pot, along with any accumulated juices. Pour in cream and 1/4 cup chicken broth; add more chicken broth to cover if needed. Add sage, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf; season with a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer, then cover and simmer over low heat for 30 minutes.
5. Add carrots, celery, and cayenne pepper; season with more black pepper. Leave uncovered and simmer until meat is tender, about 1 hour. Add peas and simmer for 10 minutes. (Optional: for a thicker sauce, raise heat and simmer until sauce is reduced, 5 to 8 minutes.)
6. Garnish individual servings with apple strips and chives.
Open House
Oak Lake rancher awarded producer
By Ken Waddell Farmers’ Advocate
Manitoba Angus Association 2024 Commercial Producer Of The Year: The Sawatsky Ranch
The Sawatsky Ranch is located south-west of the town of Oak Lake. It has always been a family venture beginning in 1930 when our grandfather bought it and our grandmother had a market garden to help support it. Jake and Rosie Sawatsky took over the operation in 1950 and their seven children all participated in agricultural activities.
The five girls have families and live in Manitoba, coming out frequently to make themselves useful.
Dan received a heifer calf from his uncle when he was born, drove tractor at the age of nine, and has been on the place full time since the mid-seventies.
David started by buying a bred heifer from proceeds of his trapline. He works the first part of the year as a tax professional and the remainder on the ranch.
David’s sons grew up doing chores and working with 4H calves and are part of the labour pool.
Nathanael is studying at Assiniboine Community College in Brandon and working at Heartland Virden while building a cow herd.
Oliver is employed at Brandon Bearing’s rebuild shop.
The operation consists of four sections of owned or rented land, with 10 quarters of pasture, five of hay and one of cropland. The grazing land is divided into four one-bull and one
three-bull pastures with stocking rates of twenty pairs per quarter. Most years cows graze until late November.
Beginning in 1970 there was usually an Angus bull
in the herd, and in 1990 we began buying only Angus bulls.
The branding program being developed showed potential and we recognized the calving ease as well as the maternal strength of the breed.
Calving starts in midMarch and is mostly done in six weeks. The calves are sold in mid-October with thirty replacement heifers retained.
We attended 23 consecutive Cattleman Connection sales and have also bought bulls from Stewart Cattle
Co., Ramrod, Youngdale, and the Swindon Ranch.
Manitoba Angus breeders have done an excellent job of developing good cattle which have increased in popularity throughout the years. Manitoba feeder cattle have gained a reputation for quality, and Angus beef is a top tier product.
The above article was written by Dan Sawatsky and taken from the Manitoba Angus Association website.
Nominations for the Commercial Producer of the Year are accepted from the membership each year and are decided on by the board. The winner is presented with their award at an MAA event. Dan, David, Nathanael and Oliver were all able to be at Ag Days 2025 where they were presented with the sign.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
From left to right are Dan, Nathaneal, David, Oliver receiving the Commercial Cattle Producer of the year award for 2024. Presenting the award is Taylor Ginter, Director on the Manitoba Angus Association board.
Manitoba Beef Producers concerned for US trade
By
Manitoba Beef Producers believe the threat of tariffs applied to the Canadian Beef industry could very harmful. MBP General Manager Carson Cowan said in in interview with The Farmers Advocate, “Tariffs would harm the integration of the Canadian and United States beef industry. They would increase prices on both sides of
the border and be detrimental to producers and consumers.”
Carson said, “Feedback from US producers indicates they know the the importance of the integration.” Beef is produced, processed and consumed in both countries. Canada exports 50 per cent of live cattle and processed beef and 75 per cent of the exports go to the US. Canadian exports amounted to about $6 billion in 2024
Keystone Agricultural Producers announces hiring of new General Manager
Submitted
KAP Media Release
“Following an extensive recruiting process, I am pleased to announce that our Board of Directors has selected Colin Hornby as the new General Manager of Keystone Agricultural Producers,” said KAP President, Jill Verwey. Hornby has been with KAP since June 2022 in the role of Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Relations. Prior to this, he worked in government at both the provincial and federal levels, serving elected officials and providing strategic advice to senior staff and cabinet
ministers. He also had a previous career working in human resource management.
Hornby is a graduate of the University of Manitoba, where he achieved a Bachelor of Arts degree, as well as RRC Polytech where he received a certificate in human resource management.
“I am thrilled to be taking on this new opportunity with KAP,” said Hornby. “Since joining the team in 2022, I have been focused on ensuring KAP lives up to our vision of ensuring a prosperous future for all Manitoba farmers. I look forward to serving them in this new role and
advancing their interests through our continued collaboration and forging of partnerships across the agricultural landscape.”
Plant a seed in your customers’ minds... Put your ad here to cultivate their interest!
Ken Waddell Farmers’ Advocate
Duck Unlimited Canada rewards Manitoba farmers for outstanding agronomy
Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) has recognized five farms in southwest Manitoba for exemplary techniques in establishing perennial forages.
The winning fields were judged to have the highest plant density, height, diversity and lack of weeds in new acres seeded in 2024 through DUC’s Forage Program. Landowners shared $10,000 in bonus incentives.
“To help make farms more profitable and sustainable, DUC provides programs and incentives for farmers who choose to restore and conserve habitat,” explains Alex Griffiths, lead agrologist for the Forage Program in Manitoba. “We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of these top producers who increased biodiversity on their land by converting cropland to grass.”
The Top Five In 2024, landowners in DUC’s Forage Program seeded 5,200 acres in southwest Manitoba and received over $750,000 in incentive payments. Among the 47 farms which participated, these five were deemed to have the best establishments:
• Bridgeman Land & Livestock, Rapid City, Man.
• Bill and Nina Cowan, Hartney, Man.
• Ekford Ranch, Rossburn, Man.
• Blaine, Hilary and Van Damme family, Baldur, Man.
• Greg and Pam Wesley, Carroll, Man.
“We truly live in pothole country,” says Blaine van Damme, who operates a mixed grain and cattle farm with his family. “For us, there’s a ridge that’s always disappointing with grain farming so that’s what we wanted to get rid of. We did seed at a heavy rate which, I
think, really does give you a better stand. I watched the DUC video on seeding tips and used all the varieties recommended so there’s lots of different species. And it turned out really well! We appreciate all the help we got from DUC.”
“We were struggling with some sour, salty areas and looking at options to get it back where we wanted and decided to go with grass,” explains Del Cowan, who accepted the Top 5 award with his father Bill. “We did not do a cover crop, but historically, we would have. Based on input from DUC, we didn’t. It turned out pretty good.”
A record of forage success
Farmers use perennial forages to feed livestock but environmental benefits include reducing soil compaction, building organic matter and increasing water-holding capacity. Perennial forages also capture and store more carbon than annual crops, which helps mitigate climate change.
Research shows DUC’s Forage Program is helping bring back declining populations of grassland birds and waterfowl.
The Forage Program is a partnership with Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives and funded in part by Manitoba’s Conservation Trust. Participating farmers receive $125 per acre to plant forages with top-up incentives awarded for best agronomic practices. Custom seed mixes and on-farm advice are also offered. The average producer payment in 2024 was $12,500.
“We sowed a NorthStar seed blend at the end of May,” explains Dallas Kominko from Ekford Ranch. “I work for an ag retailer and sell three to four thousand acres of grass seed a year and I preach the importance of putting the seed in the soil without a nurse crop. We went with a real high rate – 17 pounds per acre. We got a good catch. Cut it in mid-August and we had a heck of a regrowth.”
DUC’s Forage Program is offered in all prairie provinces. Introduced in Manitoba in 2015, the program has helped 433 farmers establish 39,000 acres of forage. DUC also funds research into hay establishment practices evaluating variables including seeding rate, use of cover crops and phosphate application.
“DUC is led by science,” explains Griffiths, “and our success with forages is science-backed and field tested.”
To apply for the 2025 crop year or find out more about DUC programs, call Alex Griffiths at 204-8480514 or visit ag.ducks.ca/ programs/manitoba/.
Charity Martin Thevenot Boulder Bluff Clydesdales, Strathclair, MB
SUBMITTED PHOTO
is now accepting applications for the following positions for the 2025 season:
Clubhouse Manager - Seasonal Clubhouse Staff - Seasonal AND/OR Proposals for Tender - Management of Clubhouse Facility
Please email resume or offers of tender, and any questions to: hamiotagolf@gmail.com
Application Deadline: Feb 28, 2025
Hamiota Golf Course thanks all applicants, however only those chosen for interviews will be notified
We are listening
By Shawn Mason, President Rivers & District Chamber of Commerce
Whether you are a Storefront Business, Service Business, Self employed, Independent Contractor, Home Based, etc. and live within the Riverdale Municipality, we want to hear from you.
As the Rivers & District Chamber of Commerce continues to evolve and grow, your input is more important than ever. We’re committed to ensuring that the Rivers & District Chamber of Commerce remains a valuable resource and advocate for all our current and future members. To do this, we need your feedback to help shape the strategic direction and operations of the Chamber moving forward.
Below you will find a link to access a survey designed to gather your thoughts and insights. We encourage every business within the Riverdale Municipality to take a few moments to complete it. Your responses will guide our efforts to better serve you, enhance our programs, and strengthen our advocacy efforts on behalf of the business community. Your voice matters, and we want to ensure we are meeting your needs in the best possible way. The survey results will play a critical role in shaping the future of the Chamber, so please share your honest opinions and suggestions.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/N6R2SMQ
Deadline: March 7, 2025
For more information on the Chamber of Commerce and its benefits, please reach out to us via Facebook or email (info@riverschamber.ca).
Invitation to Attend
March 5, 2025
Access the presentation via link on the Rolling River School Division (RRSD) website homepage https://www.rrsd.mb.ca/ A summary of the proposed budget will be available on the RRSD website by February 28, 2025 links as follows: Governance - Budget/Finance - Upcoming Budget
Full Time
Music Teacher Wanted
Boundary Lane Colony School is seeking a full time music teacher applicant to teach music at school for grades 1 through 12 near Elkhorn MB.
• Looking for singing teaching but instrumental talents also very welcome.
• Preferably 2 different sessions for the different age groups of students.
- Flexible times available.
• Would preferably like someone with a Christian faith background willing to teach in a Hutterite context setting.
Contact Jason @ 204-851-3965 for any inquiries.
Rivers Ladies Legion Auxiliary
By Lisa Smith Publicity
The regular monthly meeting of the Rivers Legion Ladies Auxiliary was held February 4th,2025 in the Rivers Legion upper hall.
There were no new applications for memberships this month.
There were also no requests for donations this month.
The Auxiliary will submit an application for a Green Team member.
A donation was made to the Auxiliary from the Lions Club.
The books will be audited.
The Auxiliary will assist with the Meals on Wheels program for the month of April.
The next regular meeting of the Rivers Legion Ladies Auxiliary will be held April 8th,2025.
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FINANCIAL SERVICES
mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with
Hamiota Golf Course
Stewart Endeavors
Gravel - Sand - Stone - End Dump/Belly Dump Services - Excavating stewartend2015@gmail.com 204-365-0086 Alex Stewart Box 916, Rivers MB, R0K1X0
330
330 - 18th Street North, Brandon, MB R7A 7P3 204.727.0330 memorieschapel.com
By Robin Wark Rivers Banner
The Rivers Jets are looking to ground the Minnedosa Bombers and move on in the Tiger Hills Hockey League playoffs.
After two games of an Eastern Division semifinal series, the senior squads were tied at 1-1. The Jets shut out the Bombers, 5-0, in game one. In overtime, Minnedosa prevailed in the second contest, 2-1. Game three of the best of five series is slated for Feb. 28 in Rivers. The fourth tilt will be in Minnedosa on March 1. The Jets would host a fifth game on March 2, if required.
“We’re looking to use our speed, and focusing on playing a bit more disciplined,” Jets coach Ryan Lamb said. “We’re
Jets, Bombers tied in playoff series
getting a lot of looks but we haven’t done a good enough job at creating traffic in front of their net.
Hoping to get back to Jets hockey Friday.”
Game One
Jets 5, Bombers 0
On Feb. 19 at home, the Jets outshot the visiting Bombers, 39-16. Rivers goalie Riley Lamb stopped all sixteen shots he faced to earn the shutout. The Jets were one-for-three with the man advantage and killed off all five of the Bombers’ powerplay opportunities.
Joben Smith scored the game’s first and last goals. His first marker gave Rivers a 1-0 lead in the first period. Josh Elmes scored on a second period powerplay to make it 2-0.
Dylan Thiessen lit the lamp twice in the third session to increase the Jets’ lead to 4-0. Smith then
capped the scoring.
Thiessen finished with three points. Elmes, Smith, and Ryder Richmond each had two. For Minnedosa, goalie Devon Fordyce made 34 saves.
Game Two
Bombers 2, Jets 1 OT
Jaxon Heeney got the Jets on the scoreboard first with 16:34 gone by on Feb. 23 in Minnedosa. Neither team scored in the second session. In the third, the Bombers’ Wes Lewis knotted things up at 1-1 on a powerplay. Lewis was not done yet. In overtime, he scored the winning goal.
The Jets sent 46 shots at Fordyce. He stopped all but one. At the other end, Lamb had 26 saves.
Through two games, Elmes and Thiessen led the Jets with three points each. Smith, captain Riley Shamray, and Richmond each had two points.
U15 Coed Provincial Hockey Tournament
By Gerry Nolan Rivers Banner
Hamiota hosted the U15 coed provincial hockey tournament this past weekend. This was a well organized weekend. The hockey was great. It is so nice to see these youngsters out on the ice, giving it their all. Thank you to all the coaches, parents, volunteers and the on ice and off ice officials.
The winner of the consolation was the host Hamiota
Huskies as they defeated Crosslake 6-2 to take the Bronze medal.
In the gold medal game Russell defeated Gladstone 4-0 to capture gold. Gladstone took home the silver medal. Congratulations to all the players who competed against one another for the right to win a provincial championship.
Congratulations to the Hamiota tournament organizers as well as this is no small feat to pull off!
Rivers Jets players getting ready for a faceoff.
PHOTO BY JESSICA COULTER
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Players: Cohen Dow, Danilo Conde, Carter Rozdeba, Thompson Charlton, Matao Finnie, Lawklan Pompana, Jayson Knight, Joshua Mathison, Blayden McKinnon, James Wootton, Colby Woychyshyn, Landon Pawluk, Reid Chwaluk, Claire Ramsay, Wyatt Russell. Coaches: Darren Rozdeba, Ricky Memryk, Martin Finnie, Brent Knight. Manager: Carrie Ramsey.
Louis Riel Day celebrations: A joyous outdoor gathering under the sun
By Carolyn Phillips Rivers Banner
Louis Riel Day is a significant occasion, celebrated annually to honour the legacy of a remarkable Métis leader and embrace the rich culture of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Though the events initially scheduled for February 17th faced an unfortunate postponement due to extreme cold temperatures, the spirit of celebration remained unshaken. On February 23rd, the community gathered to revel in the warmth of the sun and camaraderie, making the most of a beautiful day.
Millennium Park in Rivers, Manitoba, transformed into a vibrant hub of activity as families and friends came together to embrace the outdoor festivities. With the weather being mild and sunny, it was the perfect setting for both kids and adults to enjoy a variety of exhilarating activities. The park, usually known for its serene atmosphere, was buzzing with laughter and joy, offering an unforgettable day for all.
Skating on the outdoor oval was one of the highlights of the day. Both novice and experienced skaters glided across the ice, sharing smiles and friendly competition. The atmosphere was filled with laughter as families took to the oval, showcasing their skating skills and creating cherished memories. For those who preferred a different type of thrill, tobogganing down the snowy hills was an exhilarating option, with participants of all ages racing down with delight.
A key feature of the celebrations was the culinary delight of roasting hotdogs over an open fire, along with the traditional Métis staple of bannock. The smell of sizzling hotdogs and freshly baked bannock filled the air, inviting everyone to gather around the fire. Hot beverages were served, warming hands and hearts alike as visitors enjoyed tasty treats. Conversations flowed easily as people shared stories and laughter, connecting over the joys of food and community spirit.
The festivities included a variety of fun-filled games that appealed to all ages. From arm wrestling challenges to leg wrestling matches, the competitive spirit was palpable. The infamous three-legged races brought even more laughter and excitement as participants teamed up, often resulting in tangled limbs and infectious giggles. These playful activities fostered a sense of unity, with onlookers cheering for their favourite teams and friends.
Ultimately, the rescheduled Louis Riel Day celebrations in Rivers, Manitoba, turned into a heartwarming gathering that brought the community together. Families and friends relished
the opportunity to engage in both traditional and modern festivities, serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of gathering to celebrate culture, history, and each other. The joy experienced that day left an indelible mark, as community members looked forward to next year’s celebrations with even greater anticipation.
PHOTO BY CAROLYN PHILLIPS
Family and friends gathered to roast hot dogs at Millennium Park.