Pick Up in Rivers: Wednesdays 5 - 6:30 in Brandon: Thursdays 4 - 6
Grand opening of new accessible dock at Daly Beach
By Carolyn Phillips Rivers
Daly Beach has long been cherished by our community as a hidden gem, an ideal spot for launching boats, swimming, and enjoying peaceful picnics. Recognizing its potential, Friends of Rivers Lake have been diligently working on plans to further develop this area, contingent upon the availability of funding.
Today, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed, whether through funding, donations, or support for the Daly Beach project. This initiative, referred to as the Daly Beach project, has culminated in significant improvements, including the installation of a new, spacious dock, an upgraded boat launch, and the addition of picnic tables set on cement pads, enhancing the overall usability of the area.
Financial backing has been generously provided by organizations such as the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund, Rivers and Area Community Foundation, and Westoba/Assiniboine Credit Union. We also acknowledge the invaluable contributions from local businesses: Springland Manufacturing supplied the expertise and labor for dock assembly, Prairie Ground Solutions provided and installed rubber matting, Johnson Commercial & Industrial Services painted the necessary signage and parking blocks, and Action Power constructed benches for the dock. Additionally, we appreciate the countless community members who graciously donated to support this initiative.
A few years ago, the need for a new dock was identified during one of our meetings. The existing dock, owned by the Municipality, was becoming difficult to maneuver and showing signs of age, raising safety concerns. In response, we assessed the feasibility of constructing a new dock at Daly Beach. The Manitoba Habitat Conservancy, along with their Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund, has played a pivotal role in this effort, especially after the local Game and Fish
Association accessed funding for enhancements to their facilities. By providing a larger and safer dock for water access, we aim to foster sport fishing opportunities for our community. It became evident that many individuals of all ages, including those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility, faced challenges in accessing boats. In light of this, we committed to making the dock as accessible as possible for the widest range of users.
To this end, we incorporated rubber matting to facilitate wheelchair access directly onto the dock. Bump rails were installed around the perimeter to prevent wheelchairs from rolling off the edge.
Furthermore, a ramp was added to enable seamless transition onto pontoon boats, and benches were included to provide rest areas as needed. Prioritizing the needs of individuals with disabilities in our design was instrumental in securing a grant for this project.
This new dock not only stands as one of the first fully accessible facilities of its kind, but it also enhances access to the lake for everyone in the community. We are proud to celebrate this achievement and look forward to seeing all who visit Daly Beach enjoy the improvements made through collective effort. Thank you for joining us in this momentous occasion.
Dave Falkevitch, Darren Bray, Jeremy Bray, Lorne Green, Maria Neumann, Heather Lamb, Abigail Johnson gather together as Lorne Green cuts the ribbon at the new Daly Beach dock.
Tara, Darren and Jeremy Bray going from the dock to the pontoon boat.
Banner
2025 Tractor Trek sets new records for a noble cause
By Carolyn Phillips Rivers Banner
In a classic display of community spirit and agricultural pride, the 2025 Tractor Trek has successfully raised an impressive $4,805.60 for the Hamiota Hospital Dis -
trict Foundation Chemo Unit. The event brought together thirty-one dedicated tractor drivers, who journeyed from Rivers to Clack’s Museum, situated six miles northwest of Rivers, and back. This year’s trek transcended traditional boundaries, not just
Tuscan Style Ribs
Roasted potatoes and onions are a tasty alternative to mashed potatoes, fries, chips, and all the other ways potatoes are prepared.
Ingredients
Ribs
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seed
• 1 rounded tsp rosemary leaves
• 2 tsps kosher salt
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 rack St. Louis-style ribs or baby back ribs, trimmed Lemon Garlic Dressing
• 1 clove garlic, sliced
• 1 pinch salt
• 1/2 tsp rosemary leaves
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
Directions
1. Crush fennel seeds in a mortar until coarsely ground. Add rosemary; crush for a few seconds until rosemary is bruised and fragrant. Stir in salt, black pepper, red pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Cut ribs apart by slicing in between each bone with a sharp knife. Press ribs back together, sprinkle 1/3 of rub mixture on the bottom (bone side) of ribs, and rub in firmly. Sprinkle remaining rub on the meat side, and press in firmly.
3. Stack half the ribs on top of the other half, and place into a resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out the air, seal tightly, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 and up to 18 hrs.
4. Before grilling, make lemon garlic dressing. Crush garlic and salt in a mortar, then stir or whisk in rosemary, lemon juice, and olive oil.
5. Prepare a charcoal grill for medium-high heat. Grill ribs, turning every 3 to 4 minutes to grill all sides, for about 20 to 30 mins. An instant read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat and touching the bone should read 180 to 185 degrees F (82 to 85 degrees C). Let rest for 5 to 10 mins.
in terms of distance, but in the immense support it garnered from local businesses and community members.
The trek commenced at Redfern Farm Services in Rivers, which generously provided the facilities for registration, tractor marshalling, and financial backing for the day’s expenses. With the staunch support of Rivers Heritage Co-op, every penny raised went directly to the Chemo Unit, emphasizing the community’s unwavering commitment to healthcare initiatives.
A highlight of the event was the silent auction of two beautifully crafted blankets, generously donated by Joanne Boyd, Senior Advisor for Forever. Gordon Allan, a long-time supporter of the Trek, purchased the first blanket for an impressive $300, later donating it back to the Chemo Unit for their use. Josh Krahn followed suit with the second blanket, also fetching a price of $300. Such acts of kindness underscore the unity and benevolence that define the Tractor Trek community.
The planning of the trek route involves meticulous attention to detail, ensuring participants enjoy both the journey and its picturesque scenes. Harry Airey and Tom Ryall have dedicated themselves to this responsibility for many years, continually striving to add fresh scenery to the route. Their efforts enhance the overall experience, making the trek enjoyable for all participants. This year, local photographer Kaylee Hatley captured the day’s essence, with various community members contributing their photos, thus immortalizing the event in a celebratory book showcasing drivers, tractors, and the trail taken.
Community support extended beyond the tractoring enthusiasts, with contributions from the Waves of Hope Dragon Boat Racers, who donated a raffle basket that raised $580. Their involvement exemplifies the collaborative spirit that permeates the Tractor Trek, fostering connections across different community groups.
Clack’s Museum, which has served as the destination for the Trek for four consecutive years, deserves special mention. The board and staff have diligently set up and prepared the site for the event, offering essential support that often goes unrecognized. As a hidden gem in the area, Clack’s Museum promotes local history and community engagement, and events such as the Tractor Trek shine a light on its importance.
The Tractor Trek’s fundraising success can be attributed to the generous donations made by participating drivers and local citizens. Many drivers contribute significantly above the nominal $25 registration fee, demonstrating their commitment to the cause. Additionally, new fundraising strategies, such as passing a donation bucket among campers, have proven effective in rallying further support.
Ultimately, the 2025 Tractor Trek served as a reminder of how community collaboration can yield powerful results. From the meticulous preparation of tractors by enthusiasts, to the passion for supporting healthcare services in their area, each contribution – big or s mall – plays a c rucial role i n maintaining essential services for local residents. With continued support and dedication, next year’s trek promises to be another memorable and impactful event.
PHOTOS BY CAROLYN PHILLIPS
Tractor Trekers make this year’s fundraiser another huge success.
The tractors were all lined up after the Trek so the drivers could enjoy the afternoon at Clack’s Museum.
Tea at the Old Bank a summer feature
By Anne Davison Rivers Banner
High tea in the town’s historic business building is an ongoing feature during Hamiota summers. Hamiota blooms every summer as the campground bulges with families in for swimming lessons. The selection of eateries increases beyond the regularly enjoyed Hamiota Hotel and the Chinese café to include food at the golf course clubhouse and at Pope’s Drive-in.
But Thursday Tea at the Old Bank at 39 Maple
Ave. E. is different. You are surrounded by artworks and there’s crafts for sale. Here, in the Heritage Art Centre amid the quiet hum of conversation over coffee, iced or hot tea served in fine China scrumptious deserts are served; even a gluten free choice. Coming up on the 24th Raspberry Zinger cake is the feature and Saskatoon pie the following week. All for just $7.
The gallery is also open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from mid-day until 3pm. Thursday, July 10, was the last day to view the
Locally created crossword
on page 10
Travelling Gallery of 20 juried pieces as it makes the rounds to other Westman galleries.
The upcoming exhibition will be by Holly Dauvin, of Maryfield, Sask. an artist with the Hamiota Art Club. The gallery will be open on Wednesday afternoon and evening as a Show’n Shine fills the street. And at 7pm, local historians will open a time capsule in the Art Centre.
Claire Hunter Memorial Plaque
By Gerry Nolan Rivers Banner
Woodworth Legion each spring hosts the National Hockey League playoff draft just before the playoffs begin each year. The winner wins the pot and the Claire Hunter Memorial Plaque. This draft began in 1995 and has been held every year with the exception of a player’s strike, players locked out by the NHL or more recently COVID. How I hate the very thought of that disease!
There are approximately 30 teams that take part with some guys picking 2 teams. It is a $10 entry fee, with usually the top 3 teams winning the pot. It is a good $10 an evening out with some friendly banter and name calling when the player you want is picked before you can get him.
This is how it works, we usually have 3 tables with 10 teams being picked. A deck of cards determines in which order you pick. When you pick your card that is yours for the entire draft. So obviously the ace is number one and away you go. So, we go teams one to ten, then come back up from 10 to number one. You will have a total of ten players on your team. You can pick a goalie, then either defensemen or forwards. You can not select a player that has already been taken. I believe you can trade but good luck with that! After 5 rounds of picks, we take a break then resume until finished.
The first winner was Scott Routledge back in 1995. There have been people that have been double winners, no one has ever won back-to-back. Well that all changed this year. Brady Daniel won again this year. Back-to-back, the first to ever do that. Congratulations Brady! Brady is an Edmonton Oiler fan so you can guess who he is picking.
All in all, it is an evening of fun, and the winner has the bragging rights for another year.
Claire Hunter, whom the plaque is in honour of, was one of the better athletes from this area. He was an excellent ball player, pool player and an avid curler. He curled with Garth Strachan from Hamiota and had a very successful curling career. So next spring fellas, come on out to the Woodworth Legion and pick a team and have some fun!
PHOTO BY ANNE DAVISON
Hamiota Heritage Art Centre Tea at the Old Bank, Thursday, July 10, caught in action are servers standing l-r - MaryAnne Whyte, Fay Bridge, Vicki Smith.
Perspectives
Tundra
By Chad Carpenter
A mix of fun and serious stories
First, some fun!
A man from the McKerchar family at Strathclair told me a neat story about one of his ancestors. What prompted this thought to my brain was visiting the campground and beach at Rapid City during their annual Porkfest. Noted on the historical plaque at the beach is a story about a flour mill on the river in the early days of Rapid City.
According to the McKerchar family legend, one of their earliest family members in the Strathclair area was told by his wife one day they were getting really low on flour. So Mr. McKerchar reportedly put a big sack of wheat on his back and proceeded to hike towards the flour mill at Rapid City. By today’s highway map it’s about a 35 mile trek but maybe it was a bit shorter across country. Upon arriving at the mill, McKerchar was annoyed, as only a penny-pinching Scotsman can get annoyed, about a price increase when he was told by the miller that the price had gone up since his last visit. In a huff, McKerchar decided he wasn’t going to pay the higher price and walked back home with his wheat. Upon his arrival he was met with some scorn by his wife who, according to family legend said, “Ach man, you may saved your pennies but we still no have any flour.” McKerchar marched back the next day to correct his penny-pinching ways and get his bag of flour.
My dad, also a Scotsman, was born in 1907 and came to Canada in January 1913. He spent his early years in Montreal and then until 1922 on a farm at Christieville, Quebec. For the next eight years or so, he worked across Canada, mostly western Canada, and often travelled by a method called riding the rails. That meant getting into or on top of a railway car and hitching a ride
Right in the Centre
Ken Waddell
for free. Times were tough and so any free way of getting across the country was sought out. Some men would “ride the rods” which he said was crawling in under the rail cars and laying on a board laid on the connecting rods under the rail cars. If you fell off, you would likely be killed by the train. My Dad said he never rode the rods; way too dangerous. Men would often travel in pairs or small groups, but one night Dad climbed into a box car by himself in the dark. He sensed there was another person in the car– a match was struck which provided a brief bit of light. Dad was smaller in stature and he remembered the man with the match was very large and all he said was “Hi”. In the morning the man with the match was gone. Such a meeting could have turned out badly, but my Dad was grateful it didn’t.
His older brother, a man of even slighter stature told me he was getting off a train somewhere at night and sensed a person was coming up behind him on the train station platform. My uncle simply reached down and swung his fist up, giving the approaching man an uppercut that dropped him in his tracks. Uncle wasn’t taking any chances.
Over the last seven decades, I have heard and collected a lot stories and so I can’t resist inserting a few into my column once in a while
This next story is a more serious topic and isn’t so much a story as an
observation. Over the weekend, I was pondering the very serious wildfire situation and the extreme smokey air conditions, the evacuation and the huge cost of coping with the fires.
I am wondering if we had spent as much on forestry management as we have in the past 5-10 years on emergency fire fighting, we might not have had as many evacuations, buildings lost, forests destroyed and human deaths. Nobody is talking much yet about the loss of animals and birds.
If nothing else, Manitoba and all of Canada, for that matter, has to re-think how we do forestry and fire management. Every community should have a wide maintained fire guard around the communities. Perhaps wood harvesting of all kinds needs to be stepped up, such as lumber, firewood, pulp and paper, and wood chip production.
I can’t imagine us wanting as a country to go through these kinds of fires again. I think fires can be prevented and controlled but it will take a major change in the use of money, other resources, manpower and political will to create safer communities. Change must come.
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
I woke to watch the sunrise…
The seasons flow so quickly. The longer daylight hours are shortening, already. It’s simply minutes per day, a few more minutes lost in the morning than in the evening, I don’t know why or how, but that’s what my limited research shows. Earliest sunrise for our area was 5:19 a.m. and now it’s about 5:40; sunset has shifted from 9:41 to 9:28. The bedroom window faces east and most evenings I draw the darkening blind. I forgot and woke to a splendour filled morning sky. There was no moment of delay, the colours called me to full awareness, knowing that the day ahead could be a long one. I watched as the sun gained dominance over the darkness, pinks and purples flowing across the heavens. So perfect was the morning that looking out the west window, tinges and daubs of colours echoed there. The sun, far to the north, glowed and pulsed, and rose slowly, ever changing the hues and depths of colours. Mesmerised, I watched until the full morning won, blue skies, gently swaying tree tops now centre stage.
It’s not often that I watch a summer sunrise; sunsets are my speciality. I admire the photos my friend Pat posts on social media, sunrises from her front door, but not so much as witness the actual event. And with all the awe the view inspired I never thought to capture it with anything other than my memory.
How did this blessed moment change my day? It was easier for me to see beauty in the ordinary; to note the growth and development of the garden, to hear the songs of the birds, to simply sit. As many of you know, sitting doesn’t come easy for me! Somehow, that deliberate act of watching the sun rise, changed the tempo of my day. Could it be considered a moment of meditation, a prayer filled time? Not consciously. I do know that watching the dark chased away by the light moved me deeply. It was/is encouraging and inspiring, it was/is part of everyday living and choosing. So many times darkness comes in shifting shapes and personsmemories and current events. And so many times light comes in shifting shapes and persons! It come with a true dawning, it comes in words of peace and loving, it comes through gentle actions and caring thoughts. In most of our lives there are moments, seasons, of darkness, and it is in these times we need to be shown the light, we need to see the light.
That particular sunrise, was, for me, a brief revisit to the Isle of Iona, to the peace of Big Valley, to the walk through the tall trees.. It was an awareness of the majesty of creation, the majesty of the Creator, the wonder of life and living. I didn’t expect the glory of the sunrise to move me so deeply, but it did. Did I miss the extra hours of sleep? Probably not! Sleep is my elusive friend at best. Would I set an alarm to try to recapture the moment? Absolutely not! Did it change me? Without a doubt.
Rapid City Porkfest a feast for the palate and the eyes
of the many very fine automobiles at the Rapid City Porkfest car show was this 1953 Chevy truck. It is owned by John McNairey of Alexander and it used to be a fire truck at McCreary, Manitoba. McNairey pretty much re-built the truck and used a second truck as a donor of the extra cab so it is now a crew cab with a dump box on the back. In addition to being a car enthusiast, McNairey is the president of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan (CATP) Museum in Brandon. He has lots of stories about the museum and is currently hoping to get a new hangar built to house the various airplanes and equipment at the CATP museum.
By Ken Waddell Rivers Banner
The Rapid City and District Wildlife Association’s (RCWA) 3rd Annual Porkfest on July 12 was blessed with fine weather, good attendance, a great pork supper, cardboard boat races and a really good car show. As the sun beat down on festival goers and the breezes wafted across the lake, cardboard boat builders vied to be the race winners.
To qualify, the boats must be made of only cardboard and tape. Most of the boats made it over the finish lane as they floated back to shore but a few sank. Fortunately for the boaters whose crafts sank, the water at Rapid City beach was shallow on July 12 and it was warm too.
Rapid City Beach is home to many events throughout the summer including a Farmers’ Market every second Thursday. At the market, local groups take turns putting on a fundraising supper.
Jaimie Richter of the RCWA said, “We had an amazing turnout for our 3rd annual Porkfest! Once again, the cardboard boat races were a hit for both the contestants and spectators. Everyone had fun. We had almost 30 classic cars, a handful of motorcycles, and one person even brought their antique tractor down.”
The Milk Run started in Oak River on Monday, July 14
One
Spectators took to the beach to watch the annual cardboard boat race. Some boats didn’t make the full trip and sailors had to swim back to shore. All sailors had a great time, even the ones who took on water.
Neepawa middle school students, Tyson and Clayton were the winners of youth division of the Rapid City Wildlife Association cardboard boat race 2025. Their very square craft not once but twice took to the water and handily won the finals.
This beautiful 1958 Chev Impala caught a lot of attention at the Rapid City Porkfest on July 12.
The Oak River Fair had hundreds of submissions. This is the first place winner of a beautiful flower arrangement by Jordan Brown. More details about this week’s Milk Run to come in next weeks newspaper.
These cattle were the breed grand and reserve champions competing for the Overall Champion and Reserve Champion Female. The cow/calf pair closest in the picture were shown by Halle Ramsey(helped by Karas Munz) and Heston Ramsey(helped by Grandpa Cam). The cow ended up being the Reserve overall champion female.
AERIAL PHOTO BY LYNNE MILLER
PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE WADDELL
Oak Lake fish spawning project aims to safeguard walleye for future generations
By Ev Nolan Rivers Banner
Atargeted conservation initiative is underway at Oak Lake, where local committees are working to enhance and protect the walleye population through a scientifically informed fish spawning project. The effort reflects a growing understanding of the delicate balance between natural habitats, fish reproduction, and long-term sustainability.
According to project spokesperson Scott Phillips, RM of Sifton Councillor, Watershed board member, Chair of Pipestone Creek, the Oak Lake fish spawning project was established to improve the survival rate of walleye fry introduced into the lake each year. The project also creates a more secure environment for wild spawning. Participants in the project are Representatives from Souris River Watershed District, Manitoba Fisheries Branch and Conservation Officer Service. Funding has been secured through the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund.
“It’s designed to increase the survival rate of the walleye fries that go in annually and to be a safe place for spawning,” Scott Phillips, explained.
At the core of the project is the installation of a purpose-built rock bed along sections of the lakebed. This intervention is based on well-documented walleye spawning behaviour. Walleye instinctively seek out gravel beds where their eggs can settle into protective crevices. In contrast, Oak Lake’s naturally muddy bottom fails to provide this structure, leaving eggs exposed to predation and suffocation.
“Walleye prefer gravel to spawn,” Scott said. “With a muddy bottom, they don’t have that option, so we’re giving them a better chance of survival.”
These rock beds serve a dual purpose: they offer an ideal surface for egg adhesion and create spaces where newly
hatched fry can shelter from natural predators. Among the most pressing concerns are invasive carp, which, if introduced, would feed on walleye eggs and disrupt the lake’s ecological balance.
The importance of walleye to Manitoba’s freshwater ecosystems and regional economy cannot be overstated. As both a keystone species and a prized catch for recreational anglers, Walleye supports tourism, local businesses, and a cultural tradition of fishing that spans generations. Their presence also indicates the overall health of the aquatic environment.
Community engagement has been critical to the project’s momentum. Local anglers, conservation groups,
and volunteers have contributed time, expertise, and resources to make the work possible. Their involvement underscores a shared commitment to preserving Oak Lake’s natural assets.
When I said that ‘as long as I can remember, people have been fishing here, and there’s always been plenty of fish’, Scott interjected saying, “But the project is about enhancing numbers and providing a safe place for the eggs to hatch.”
Through proactive measures grounded in ecological knowledge, organizers are optimistic that Oak Lake will remain a vibrant, sustainable fishery for generations to come.
Investing in Oak Lake’s future: A community united for generations to come
By Ev Nolan Rivers Banner
On July 11, Oak Lake Beach became the proud backdrop for an inspiring announcement that promises to shape the future of our cherished local waterway. We were honoured to welcome the Honourable Premier Wab Kinew, accompanied by Councillor Scott Phillips, Minister Glen Simard, and Dean Brooker from the Souris River Watershed District, as they shared plans that will bring renewed vitality to Oak Lake.
Premier Kinew stood before a gathering of community members, local officials, and conservation advocates to unveil a $95,000 Aeration Project, which will unfold
over the next two years. With a voice full of conviction, he spoke passionately about the power of teamwork, the importance of supporting Westman communities, and his government’s commitment to working hand in hand with Manitobans to safeguard the places we love.
Dean Brooker offered insight into the benefits this project will bring, explaining how the new aeration system will help improve overall water quality. This investment is more than a technical upgrade. It is a promise to protect the delicate balance of life beneath the surface. The system will enhance fish habitat, supporting the walleye and other species that draw anglers and nature enthusiasts to Oak Lake year after year. Cleaner, healthier water will also mean safer recreation for families who
come here to swim, boat, and create lifelong memories along the shore.
Minister Simard added heartfelt remarks, expressing his deep connection to our region and his commitment to preserving what makes this corner of Manitoba so special. He emphasized that caring for our waterways is about more than infrastructure. It is about honouring our shared history and leaving a legacy for future generations.
In addition to the aeration project, Premier Kinew shared exciting news of a $19.7 million investment in the Oak Lake Dam Rehabilitation Project. This major undertaking will modernize the dam, strengthen flood protection measures, and ensure the lake’s water levels can be managed sustainably in the face of changing climate conditions. For local farmers, cottagers, and business owners, this work will bring peace of mind and help secure the prosperity of the entire region.
Just this past Wednesday, members of the Council and engaged community residents sat down with representatives from the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund and the Souris River Watershed District to continue planning additional conservation efforts. Among these is a “spawning bed designed specifically for walleye”, which will give these important native fish a safe place to reproduce and thrive. Together with the aeration and dam improvements, these initiatives form a comprehensive approach to restoring and protecting Oak Lake’s vibrant ecosystem. These projects are a powerful reminder of what can happen when people come together with vision, dedication, and a shared sense of responsibility. Whether it is provincial leaders, local councils, or volunteers lending their voices and expertise, everyone has played a role in making these investments a reality.
Left to right: Scott Phillips, Sifton Councillor and Chair of Pipestone Creek Committee; Middle Grassland Deputy Reeve, Claude Martin: Sifton Reeve, Cyril Druwe.
Councillor Scott Phillips, Honourable Premier Wab Kinew, Minister Glen Simard, and Dean Brooker from the Souris River Watershed District
Oak River celebrates their roots Oak River Homecoming
By Anne Davison Rivers Banner
Oak River’s rich history runs deep as indicated by the centennial plaque marking the 1892 origin of the Oak River Agricultural Society. This vibrant community celebrated its foundations along with over 220 visitors signing the guest book, some from neighbouring areas and others from across Canada. Oak River’s veterans were commemorated, as were school classes, sport stars, church life and businesses.
Susan (Heapy) Smith was the main organizer for the event. She had a band of helpers for the supper led by Maxine Shamray, Dianne Brown and Penny Froese with many volunteer cooks, set-up and clean-up hands. Born and raised at Oak River, historical blogger Sharon Simms of Reston, was a strong contributor to the Oak River Homecoming. She said, “A number of us second and third generation Oak Riverites planned (the event) over Messenger video, but were never together until the weekend, which is a real testament to the digital age!”
Simms called it a “great day” and said the reunion brought a bright outlook toward the future: “It was a real group effort that we think would make our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents proud! Oak River gives us a strong connection with our shared history….”
Top: Sienna Reid, Camryn Shachtay, Brooklyn & Bridget Stewart get in the frame at the Saturday evening social. Representing historic Oak River families and newer community members, their parents are Steve Reid & Heidi Kroeker, Marci Kelly Shachtay, and Melody & Charles Stewart; grandparents Ruth & the late Gary Stewart and Roxanne & Bob Turnbull.
Left: Black Foot and White Foot pull the Moffatt wagon loaded with home comer visitors.
Bottom: Doug and Nancy McCallum and other members of the McCallum family including Mac and Amanda, Wendy (McCallum) and Joey Corney, Rory and Anders pose at the cenotaph following the memorial banner unveiling.
Saturday July 12, began at 11am with a modest crowd gathered at the Memorial Hall. The focus on the cenotaph was five veteran banners that were being unveiled that morning. Comrade Diane Kuculym, President of the Oak River Legion Branch #150, introduced the Parade led by piper Dan Jardine: Past President Comrade Carol Black, Vice-president Comrade Gerry Gourley, and secretary treasurer Comrade Heapy. She welcomed the special guests Zone #24 Commander Brett Pritchard and of Rivers Legion Comrade Dave Tourney; Oak River Legion members, Oak River Legion Ladies and Legion members.
She said, “Our legion Branch No.150 feel it is our duty to honour five fallen Second World War heroes at this time but it is our plan to add more banners in the years to come.”
Central at the cenotaph, a special plaque honoured Sergeant Alexander P. Brereton, born Nov. 13, 1892 in Oak River and awarded the Victoria Cross on Oct. 9, 1918. The banners were of Corporal Edwin G. Rothnie (Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders); Flight Sergeant William Robert Hawthorn (RCAF); Gunner Corelius Connie Hayhurst (Royal Canadian Artillery); Warrant Officer First Class, John Malcom McCallum (RCAF); and Flight Sergeant Donald Frederick Glinz (RCAF).
In the Oak River Memorial Rink, a grill lunch was on offer and former ball and hockey team uniforms were on display along with photos of teams and many
sport stars from the area.
Hamiota handivan and horsedrawn wagon rides were a great way to see the town.
Murray and Debbie Moffatt along with son Wayne toured guests throughout the streets of Oak River, their four-year-old black team (Black Foot and White Foot) patiently clopping along, stopping while sightseers discussed the history they were passing.
Oak River was looking its best with groomed yards, town square and a new playground.
In a photo of Homecoming 2025 baseball (T-ball) on Dodgers Field, players listed were: Ty Paddock, Ben Henry, Ryan Argue, Steve Reid, Lindsay Reid & Chris Thomas, Gerald Kuculym, Allan Reid, Dallas Bridgeman, Brayden & Darcy Heapy the Baily Family, Don & Walker and Les Nicholls, Adam Reid, Eric McLean, Russell Paddock and missing, Rory McCallum due to an injury.
Sue and Bill Aaroe graciously opened their century brick three story home for guests to have a look and hear the history of the home. Although fully renovated many original elements remained. The Usunier family owned the home from 1985 to 2006 and they were thrilled to be able to visit their former home.
A social with live music, New Highway 25 Repaved Band, followed on Saturday evening and on Sunday, a service in Oak River United Church, then classes in the Oak River Agricultural Fair began.
PHOTOS BY DALE DAVISON
One of the destinations on the horsedrawn Oak River tour is the Aaroe home at 60, Limit Street. Sue Aaroe, the current home owner (with husband Bill) has welcomed visitors, the Usunier family: Shelly, parents Ron & Carolyn and Karen who have returned to visit the historic Oak River home.
Kenton Professional Jackelyn Hunter Ewasiuk
By Gerry Nolan Rivers Banner
Jackelyn started her schooling in Shoal Lake where she took grade 1. Next it was Kenton school for grades 2-6, then to Hamiota Collegiate for grades 7-12 where she graduated with a high school diploma. Upon graduating from Hamiota she took the 2 plus 2 programs between Assiniboine Community College and Brandon University. She did a 2 years diploma in Business Administration with a specialization in accounting through ACC in 2015 and 2016. She then did a year stint with BU and received a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in accounting, this was 2017 and 2018.
She was hired at BDO Canada and then started the Chartered Professional Accountant program. This was a 2-and-a-half-year program and was working full time with 4 modules and a major exam at the end. This ran from 2018-2020. She was a very busy lady!
Jackelyn said her family was a large influence on her career. She said she was never going to work in the healthcare industry but enjoyed business related courses in high school. She never took accounting until going to ACC and very much enjoyed the numbers and the thought process behind it. Her parents had told her she needed to get a post secondary education and
supported whatever industry she wanted to go into. They were there for her through the whole process and supported her in the hard and challenging times.
Growing up on the farm south of Harding, Jackelyn spent a lot of time helping with the Harding Agriculture Society board and helping with meals on Harding Fair day! She also taught figure skating and Sunday school in Kenton. She said the community as a whole and her involvement in it has impacted what she enjoys doing who she has helped within her career.
Currently, Jackelyn is on 2 boards. She is treasurer of both the Brandon career symposium and the YWCA Westman.
Away from work, she enjoys camping, travelling and hanging out with friends. She also enjoys gardening, sewing and crafting when there is spare time. I asked Jackelyn what got her interested in the career she is currently in? Her response was everything just sort of fell into place. She knew she enjoyed business, but it was not until taking a course at ACC that she went the accounting route. She took it one step at a time. When she finished at ACC she wanted to continue her education, so she transferred to BU. BDO hired her and supported her and she went into the CPA profession. She said she is done with education for a while as she plans on having a family!
Some advice from Jackelyn for the youth today
would be, explore careers and options. It is okay to switch if you find something you enjoy. She said that she always had thought she would be in Human Resources and management, those were the courses she least enjoyed. She really enjoyed accounting. She said, take your time in deciding what to do and things will line up and fall into place, and do what makes you happy! Solid advice from Harding Professional Jackelyn Hunter.
Hazel (Short) Patmore-Skuce born near Oak River became oldest living Canadian
By Anne Davison
Rivers Banner
Ateacher who instructed grades 1 to 4 in the one-room Joslin School near Virden almost 80 years ago, lived to become the oldest living person in Canada as of June 25, 2024. It was a record she held until her passing
on Jan. 3, 2025.
Hazel Skuce (nee Short) died at Hillcrest Place Personal Care Home in Brandon, at the age of 112 years, 331 days. This long-lived lady was an interesting teacher as former pupil and Virden resident Len Collier recalls. He visited his old teacher periodically until he stopped driving a couple of years ago.
Her biography on the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) website says Hazel Skuce was “a remarkable soul born on 7 February 1912 in Blanshard Municipality, Manitoba to George Holwell and Esther Short. Life brought both joy and sorrow, including the loss of her first husband, Dick Patmore, and later finding love again with John Skuce. She did not have children on her own.” www.grg-supercentenarians. org
Longevity was a family trait. According to GRG: “Her brother Lawrence Short and sister Muriel Myrtle Westwood both died at the age of 95. Her younger sister, Clara Hornibrook, died on 25 February 2022 at the age of 108 years, 166 days, making them one of the oldest sibling pairs in history.”
Miss Short taught at Joslin School, a little country school about 10 miles north of Virden from 19401942. Country schools were closed in 1965 and a cairn marks Joslin School.
Mr. Collier recalls those school days: “I lived on a farm right across the road from the school, almost. Joslin only went up to Grade 8, but there was a war on in 1941 and they needed me at home and so rather than send me to Virden to the collegiate, Hazel (Miss Short) taught me Grade 9 at Joslin. I was the only kid that ever got taught Grade 9 at Joslin School.”
A photo of Collier’s school days at Joslin shows 18 students of all ages lined up outside Joslin School.
The Collier lads had school duties in those days. “We were the caretakers. It was one way of making a little bit of money. Don and I, we were there to
light the fire and start the furnace in the morning, and clean up,” Collier said, adding, “Farm kids worked.”
The world was smaller then. Many walked to their destinations. Collier thinks his teacher may have boarded with the Aubrey Paul family near Joslin School and walked to school.
“I sort of kept in touch with Hazel over the years. Not real close, but I knew where she was. And then she ended up in Hillcrest. I used to go and see her, maybe three times a year. She didn’t hear very good and she didn’t see very good, but she had all her marbles. She was a smart lady really.”
Teachers’ legacy
In a Brandon Sun story on June 30, “Retired teachers…” by Abiola Odutola, reports that Brandon and Area Retired Teachers Association representatives Pat Bowslaugh and Mavis Johnston have asked the Brandon School Division trustees to honour Hazel Skuce.
“‘Ms. Skuce was a pioneer in what we now call outdoor education—before the term even existed,’ Bowslaugh said. ‘She took children into Coronation Park and helped them connect deeply with nature through listening, observing, and learning. Science, language, music — she wove it all together, hands-on.’
“Bowslaugh… recounted observing Skuce during her student teaching placement in 1959. ‘She made such an impression on me that I carried her influence through my entire career, including my 43 years volunteering with the Western Manitoba Science Fair,’ she said.
“‘If she could make such a deep impression on me 65 years ago, she certainly touched many others. Even a man from Winnipeg tracked her down at age 110, remembering her from his elementary school days at Fleming.’”
She made an impression on many, but Len Collier thinks he was “probably the only kid from Joslin who visited her.”
PHOTO BY ANNE DAVISON
Jacklyn Hunter Ewasiuk with her husband Bryce Ewasiuk. Married since June 2024.
Len Collier shows his cane with the farm brand carved into the stock and the names of milk cows in the Collier herd are written on it. Len Collier shares about supercentenarian teacher.
TUESDAY, August 5th
ERICKSON– Municipality of Clanwilliam-Erickson office RAPID CITY– R.M. of Oakview satellite office
MINNEDOSA – R.M. of Minto-Odanah office
OAK RIVER – AWWD office
ONANOLE – Municipality of Harrison Park office
RIVERS – Riverdale Municipality office
SANDY LAKE – Pickup: Heritage Co-op & Drop off: Fire Hall
STRATHCLAIR– Community Centre
NEWDALE– Pickup: Post office & Drop off: Drop-in centre
WEDNESDAY, August 6th
MINIOTA– AWWD Office
BIRTLE – Prairieview Municipality office
MCAULEY – R.M. of Ellice-Archie office
SHOAL LAKE – R.M. of Yellowhead office
HAMIOTA – Hamiota Municipality office
KENTON – R.M. of Wallace-Woodworth satellite office
ELKHORN – Pick up: Municipal office Drop off: Leisure Centre
VIRDEN – Town of Virden office ST. LAZARE – Town Office
THURSDAY, August 7th
ROSSBURN – Rossburn Municipality office
ROBLIN – Municipality of Roblin office
INGLIS – AWWD office
RUSSELL – Municipality of Russell-Binscarth office
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The Pool Room
T hanks for your support this past year. Bright wishes to you now and in the year ahead.
In Kenton, there used to be a pool room. It was located in the basement of the hardware store which is now known as Brierwood Creek Cafe. When the hardware sold and became a cafe, one of the pool tables was taken down to Woodworth Legion and is still being played on today. But let us look back in history a bit. There used to be 2 pool tables down in the basement of the hardware. Geordie Whyte used to cut hair down there, I believe Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Of course, the pool players would show up and the game was on. Not too many times were both tables not in use. There was a lot of good natured banter and camaraderie as well. One night I was getting a haircut and because I was very interested in what the pool players were doing, Geordie told me, quit moving your head or I will cut your ear off.
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Some of those players also played during the day as well. Come to town for coffee and a game or 2 of pool. Eventually I got to play on those big tables, it is not as easy as it looks! It took a long time to make any shots, but practice makes perfect right. Well in my case, I need a lot more practice. Like anything else, if you play a lot, you will get better.
Some of the real good players I remember and learned from by watching were Ken Hunter, Claire Hunter, Glen Hunter, Pip Lonsdale, Ivan Crampain, Greg Tolton, Claude Tolton, Bob Foster and Harold Archabald. These guys were very good. The pool table eventually moved to the Legion. It was donated by Mel Cummings in 1984.Unfortunately pool seems to be becoming a game from the past as there are not many of us guys left to play. There are about 6 of us left to play. It is too bad there does not seem to be more people interested in giving it a go. For a couple of bucks, it is cheap entertainment. I suppose online gaming has replaced a night out to play pool, which is unfortunate. The Legion clubroom is open for coffee in the morning and pool from around 10 until lunch time, then again Thursday and Friday evenings beginning in October.
Glen Hunter has taught me so much about the game and when Glen is on his game, he is the best player. He learned from many of those guys who used to go down into the basement of the old hardware store who played the game.
Some of the games we have played over the years are of course snooker, blue ball,101 and golf, which is the main game played these days.
So, starting in the fall come on out and take a crack at it, play some games and enjoy an evening of laughs and fun. The table awaits your presence.
One specific memory that is still talked about to this day is. One night Claire Hunter made a near impossible shot, one that was probably lucky, but one that all of the players would love to make. Anyway, Claire makes this crazy shot and it goes dead quiet, not a word was said, I think everyone was just stunned that he made the shot. He was really trying to do what he did, just no one thought he could make it. Claire shoots and knocks the ball into the pocket, it is dead quiet, and Claire says, you know fellows, I do not ever remember missing one of those shots! The place just cracked up with laughter. Still does today when that line gets said down at the pool table!
Gerry Nolan
Ref to writer
Comets, Dodgers fight for SWBL finals berth
By Robin Wark Empire-Advance
The Rivers Comets and Oak River Dodgers will battle for a spot in the South West Baseball League finals.
In the first round of the senior league playoffs, the SWBL North Division No. 3-seeded Comets swept the secondseeded Brandon Young Guns, 2-0, in the best-of-three playoff series. The Oak River team got past the Red Sox, 2-1, in the other semifinal. The Comets and Dodgers now meet in the SWBL North Division Finals. In the South Division final, the No. 1 Boissevain Centennials take on the No. 2 Brandon Cardinals.
“I think in a year like this with the whole league very tight on the standings it just truly feels like it could be anyone’s year,” Comets player/organizer Mike McFadden said before the playoffs got underway.
The Dodgers won both regular season matchups versus the Rivers team. They outscored the Comets 17-12. The division finals series schedule was not yet available at the Banner deadline.
“Playoffs in any sport is just about winning ‘today,’” McFadden said. “Don’t worry about tomorrow or the next game. Just do whatever it takes to win right now because in some cases there won’t be a tomorrow.”
Comets versus Young Guns
Heading into the postseason, McFadden said it was going to be exciting as “it’ll be the first taste of SWBL playoffs for some of our guys.” The Comets acquitted themselves well against the Young Guns, who joined the league this summer.
At home on July 10, the Rivers crew got by the visitors, 2-1. Comets ace Scott Beever held the Young Guns to just one run on six hits over seven innings. He fanned 11 batters.
Both teams pushed a run across in the sixth inning to make the score 1-1. In the seventh, the Comets’ Jase Ware-
Gerry Nolan Ref to writer
The next memory of umpiring a game took place in Boissevain at the AA senior provincials. I had travelled down to Boissevain with Bob Senff for the weekend to umpire a few games. One game in particular stood out that day and it was really just a play on the field that I never forgot.
Boissevain are playing a club from around Winnipeg, I can not remember the team’s name. Boissevain were ahead by a substantial margin when this play occurred. The outfield fence was a snow fence, the old wood style fence. The Boissevain batter hits a high fly ball to left center field. We are using the 2-man umpire system, so I have to stay in the infield, I can go out to the outfield to get a better look at the play. The ball goes over the fence, so I signal homerun. The
ham singled. He got to third thanks to bunts by Luke Hrycak and Ryder Richmond. The Young Guns attempted unsuccessfully on both bunts to get the lead runner out. This meant the bases were loaded for Hayden Mackedenski. He earned a bases loaded walk to lift the Comets to the win.
In the second contest, July 11 in Brandon, the Rivers team rolled to a 10-1 win. Fred Hrycak earned the win as he limited the Young Guns to one run on three hits in six innings of work. Beever closed things out by allowing only one hit in the seventh inning. Layton Veitch drove in three runs. He hit a triple and a double.
Dodgers versus Red Sox
The Dodgers outscored the Red Sox, 4-1, in the final four innings of game three to earn an 8-7 victory at home and advance to the next round. The visiting Hamiota squad led 6-4 after three innings.
Kaden Rozdeba, Mitch Batterby and Chase Anderson all blasted home runs for Oak River. Rozdeba was four-forfour and drove in four runs. Anderson had two RBIs. For Hamiota, Hayden Crampain pushed three runs across. Dylan Schrader threw a complete game for the Dodgers. He surrendered seven runs, two earned, on five hits. Schrader struck out five.
On July 11 in Hamiota, the Red Sox used a four-run fourth inning to post a 7-4 victory. Hamiota’s Justin Knight had three RBIs and hit a triple. Patrick Vandoorne drove in two runs for the Red Sox. Battersby had two RBIs for Oak River. Kayden Sutherland earned the win
shortstop from the other team is losing his mind, saying the ball landed in the field of play and bounced over.
I said no, it went over the fence. Now the Short stop is not swearing at me or using any bad language or gestures which I thought was odd, and the outfielders are not saying anything either. Strange? The shortstop wants a second opinion and wants me to ask the home plate umpire which I did.
The player said, did you see the ball land inside the fence, the home plate umpire said, NO!
The game continues without any more fuss. I am thinking during the rest of the game, why are the 2 outfielders not saying anything to me? You would think they would be screaming bloody murder at me.
After the game and the handshake line is done and Boissevain wins the game, it is not close, the shortstop comes running up to me. I am thinking oh my, this is not going to turn out good. The shortstop said to me, you got the call right. We were getting beat and I was trying to light a fire under my teammates and Boissevain was pounding us into the ground, sorry about that and he trots off. I just stood there and smiled, I think. Apology accepted, no harm, no foul, game over. Another one in the books and a memory of someone just trying to help his team out. That was one for the ages!
for Hamiota. He allowed two runs, neither earned, on three hits over 4.33 innings. Sutherland struck out six. Nolan Drake threw 2.66 innings in relief.
At home on July 8, the Dodgers used nine hits and three Red Sox errors to win 9-3 in the opening game of the series. For Oak River, Rozdeba hit two home runs and drove in four runs. Riley Shamray had two RBIs. Schrader went the distance for Oak River. He allowed two earned runs on three hits.
PHOTO BY DALE DAVISON
The Oak River Dodgers’ Mitch Battersby makes good contact sending this one out of the park on July 13.
13U Comets wow home crowd with gold medals
By Robin Wark Empire-Advance
The 13U Rivers Comets will never forget being cheered on by a home crowd to a provincial championship.
The Comets hosted and won the Baseball Manitoba 13U Tier 3 Provincials on July 11-13. In the finals, Rivers outslugged Carberry for a 17-12 victory.
“It is a once in a lifetime chance for players to win a provincial title at home,” coach Aaron Tycoles said. “To play at the ballpark all year but then to see how many people were there on Sunday for the finals was amazing.”
Tyler Gill, one of the organizers, said “one highlight that will be remembered for years to come was the host team bringing home the gold medal.” He said that the crowd and atmosphere for the final were “absolutely incredible.”
“There was enthusiastic cheering on both sides, and it was great to see our community come out in full force to support the Rivers Comets,” Gill said. “The opposing Carberry Royals brought a strong contingent of fans who were equally passionate in their support.”
He noted that the entire community came together to host the successful tournament.
“From the planning and performance side, our host committee — Laura Tycoles, Marci Quane, Cale Shaw, Jocelyn Beever, Aaron Tycoles, and myself — worked seamlessly as a team,” Gill said. “We were also fortunate to have a group of dedicated volunteers who handled the gate, canteen, scorekeeping/announcing, and field maintenance. Events like this simply don’t happen without those people, and we’re incredibly grateful for their time and effort.”
On July 11, the Rivers team fell 5-2 to Portage and rolled past Carberry 10-1. During the second day of the event, the home team dominated TriCommunity 16-4 and defeated Melita 11-1. Its 3-1 record secured it a place in the semifinals against
Morden on the morning of July 12. Rivers prevailed 7-6 in that contest.
“We got down early with four unearned runs in the first,” Tycoles said. “But the boys didn’t quit. A.J Tycoles locked the game down allowing only one run the rest of the way winning Player of the Game. We were able to chip away and score runs every inning before Jayce Peters came in to earn the save.”
In the other semifinal, Carberry defeated Brandon, 16-6, to set up the final’s matchup. The championship contest was packed with offence. What allowed the Comets to rack up the runs?
“I preach driving the ball. We have hit well all year long and have scored a lot of runs,” Tycoles said. “In the semifinals especially, our bottom of our order
were able to get hits and get on base. In the game against Melita Saturday night, we had six straight hits to lead off the game and scored five quick runs to settle the boys down.”
The Comets roster included Madden Ratz, Brody Basaraba, Bridger Kent, Jace Waldner, Nolan Edwards, A.J. Tycoles, Bentley Quane, Jaxon Lee, Asher Rothnie, Caidan Duncan, Ashton Huston, Jayce Peters, and Luke Chipelski. The assistant coaches were Kurtis Quane and Layton Veitch.
“Aaron has coached many of these players for years, and to host provincials and win gold was truly something meaningful for everyone involved,” Gill said. “We’re all proud to hang that championship banner in our canteen building.”
The 13U Rivers Comets won the provincial championship at home.