Mar 24:17

RIVERS

BANNER March 24, 2017

ersary v i n Celebrating our 108th An

Gazette-Reporter

Serving the Rivers, Rapid City and Oak River areas for 107 years

Volume 109, Issue 38

89¢ + tax

The power of pies

By Sheila Runions Banner Staff iverdale Personal Care Home held its first ever pie auction on Saturday, March 18 and co-ordinator Wanda Lennox was astounded at the success.

“I was kind of in a panic because of the storm the week I was going to start making pies with our residents,” says the activity director. “But in the end, it all worked out perfect. It was a really fun day and we raised $3,050.35! I couldn’t believe it; it was awesome.”

Approximately 100 people came for the 75-minute afternoon event and 41 people, including residents, took bidding cards. The highest pie (saskatoon) sold for $80, then $70, $65 and several at lesser rates. A total of 75 pies were auctioned by Cliff Penno; 45 were made by residents — “We had an excellent teacher in Linda Klassen,” — and 30 were donated by residents’ families and businesses. All pies were homemade and all were of the dessert variety; no meat pies were provided, although two nine-by-13 slices were also auctioned.

Residents, with staff supervision, worked four or five hours each day, March 9, 10, 13, 14, 15 and 16 making their contributions for their fundraiser.

Richard Brown of Rivers was Cliff ’s assistant, displaying the pies. Janey Brown of Onanole acted as secretary and staff member April Peters volunteered on her day off to run the pie tables.

“It was so successful we’re going to hold it next year for sure. Residents were bidding and buying and Gary Pomeroy and Norm Bridgeman sure added to the fun of the day with all their antics.

Super Thrifty provided a lot of support for the event — I’m not sure Gary would like me to say how much he and son Gavin spent!”

R

Vi Bowman just added some ingredient to the bowl Elaine Common was mixing in making pies.

Charlotte MacDonald washes her hands after much work to have these pies ready for the oven in the care home kitchen.

Photos by Wanda Lennox

2 RIVERS BANNER March 24, 2017

Community calendar

March 25: Ladies night, Rivers Legion Hall, 5:30 p.m.

March 28: Diabetic clinic, Riverdale Health Centre, 8 a.m.

March 28: Rivers Minor Ball annual meeting, Redfern Hall, Riverdale Community Centre, Rivers, 7 p.m.

March 30 and 31: Thrift sale, Rivers United Church, 1-5 p.m.

April 1: Thrift sale, Rivers United Church, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

April 1: Pie sale, Rivers United Church, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

April 3: Rivers Legion Ladies Auxiliary meeting, upper hall, 7 p.m.

April 4: Valleyview Sno-Riders meeting, Redsper Enterprises, Rivers, 7:30 p.m.

April 8: Spring fever show and sale, Riverdale Community Centre, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

April 10: Rivers/Rapid City Senior Services annual meeting, Riverdale Municipality council chamber, 7:30 p.m.

April 11: Rivers Legion executive meeting, upper hall, 1 p.m.

April 12: Rivers & Area Game & Fish Association meeting, The Honey House Bakery and Cafe, 6:30 p.m.

April 13: Maundy-Thursday service, Rivers Baptist Church, 7 p.m.

April 13: Maundy-Thursday service, Rivers United Church, 7:30 p.m.

April 14: Good Friday service, St. James’ Anglican Church, Rivers, 10:30 a.m.

April 15: Here on the Flight Path, Riverdale Community Centre, 7:30 p.m.

April 16: Easter breakfast, Rivers Baptist Church, 9 a.m.

April 16: Easter brunch, Rivers Legion, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

April 18: Riverdale Municipality budget meeting, Riverdale Community Centre, 7 p.m.

April 19: Greenwood Cemetery meeting, RM of Wallace-Woodworth council chamber, Kenton, 7:30 p.m.

April 24-29: Sister Act, Bend Theatre, Strathclair, 7:30 p.m.

April 25: Diabetic clinic, Riverdale Health Centre, 8 a.m.

April 26: Riverdale District Health Auxiliary meeting, Kiwanis Courts, Rivers, 1:30 p.m.

April 28: Diamond Forever, Rivers Legion May 1: Rivers Legion Ladies Auxiliary meeting

Zion Church 879 Third Avenue, Rivers

Don’t privatize Manitoba Hydro

Re Ken Waddell’s March 17 editorial concerning provincial debt and Manitoba Hydro: A couple of weeks ago the premier and some of his cabinet appeared on TV to talk about the upcoming budget. One of the cabinet ministers made the comment that we will finally find out the true state of provincial finances. ell, duh. e’s had 11 months to learn all about it.

How do we taxpayers know if a cabinet minister does not?

Many devout Conservatives quote Canadian Taxpayer’s Federation (CTF) as a source. A month before the last election, a CTF release said the debt was $37 billion. A couple of days after the new government was sworn in, a similar CTF release pegged the debt at $21 billion. Whoa!! From the time the election is called until the new government is sworn in, we do not have an active government. But $16 million worth of debt had vanished. Gone!

Amazing! Or “alternate facts”? Personally, I checked audited reports and found just over $10 billion of debt.

And I will certainly believe an auditor ahead of CTF. As for selling Manitoba Hydro, come back in time to the selling of Manitoba Telephone System. Since most of the proceeds of that sale were turned over as a gift to the new company, there was no financial benefit to Manitobans. But in less than two years, my monthly phone bill rose from $14 to over $40, a 200 per cent increase with no change in the service. There is no reason to believe the same would not happen with Hydro.

So let me suggest an alternative to privatization: let hydro raise its price by half the amount MTS did. A 100 per cent increase would generate obscene profits for hydro. Their debt would soon be paid off. We could then turn excess profits to other provincial responsibilities such as medicare and highways, or even tax reduction much the same as lberta uses profits from

Save 20% with code: DUNK!

Sunday school and morning service at 10:30 a.m.

Rivers Baptist Church Phone 204-328-7882

Worship service/Sunday school – 10:30 a.m.

17034FF1

Youth (Gr. 5-12) — 204-328-7854 for details.

Professional counselling *Marriage *Family *Depression *Addictions *Grief *Abuse Phone 204-573-3362 for an appointment.

Pastor Wil Warkentin, MA in counselling

Rivers United Church Spring Thrift Sale

Mar. 30 - Apr. 1 March 30 and 31, 1-5 p.m.

Saturday, April 1, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

PIE SALE: April 1, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Corner of Fourth Avenue and Main Street.

Donations may be left at the church or phone 204-328-7190.

SUN • APR 23 • 1PM

Ticketmaster.ca

Pastor Warren Smallwood: 204-328-7251

447 Edward Street

their oil and gas resources. All we have to do is pay the same price for electricity that we will pay to a private company. The profit stays here instead of going to a financier in bu habi.

In Ontario they sold part of their distribution grid.

Some correspondents from there tell me they now pay 12 cents per kilowatt hour for the electricity and 11 cents per kilowatt hour distribution fee, for a total of 23 cents per kilowatt hour. I presently pay 7.9 cents.

Don’t even think of claiming that it can’t happen. Of course, with a price of 15 or 16 cents per kilowatt hour, many working poor and fixed income seniors, like myself, might have to learn to live without heat, but this is already happening in neighbouring jurisdictions with private energy companies.

Considering that Pallister has already promised and partly succeeded in reducing my government benefits by $1,000 per year, I’m quite certain he doesn’t give a damn about the poor or the seniors. And living in Costa Rica, he need not worry about the cost of heat.

In closing, before your devout Conservative readers start frothing at the mouth and screaming for my head for pointing out that our hydro rates are very cheap compared to other jurisdictions, check them for yourselves. t takes all of five minutes on oogle. y bill says I pay 7.9 cents per kilowatt hour; in New York they pay 25 cents American; adjusted for the exchange rate, they pay four times as much as I do.

Leonard Paramor, Arden

Rivers United Church Pie Sale Saturday, April 1, 10 a.m.

Pies $10 each

RIVERS BANNER March 24, 2017 3

From our files

75 years ago, 1942 Frances Luchuk picked crocus on March 18, a sure sign of the early spring. While on a 48-hour leave last week, LAC J. Greasley shot 23 gophers; another sure sign of spring. Beryle Hutchings married Cliff Burt on March 18.

65 years ago, March 27, 1952 Rivers Arena was broken into on Wednesday and a number of cigarettes from the concession were stolen but cash in that booth was left behind. In another break-in there a few weeks ago, only cash was stolen. Marian McFaddin married John Trewin on March 14.

55 years ago, March 22, 1962 Able seaman Ron Houben of Rivers was in Japan recently as part of the Second Canadian Escort Squadron hockey team; the forward helped his navy team defeated All Stars of Toyko 10-3. When he completes his training cruise in the Far East next month, he will return to Canada. S. Sutton of Pine Falls began shadowing Charlie Stalker as manager of Rivers Royal Bank on March 19; Charlie started here in November 1951 and will leave March 26 on a transfer to manage the Kenora, Ont. branch. Tripps Service Station in Wheatland was broken into last week.

At Oak River United Church Women’s March 6 meering, members agreed to keep the charter open until the end of June; at present there are 40 members. The Yuill-Weiten wedding was a March 17 event.

45 years ago, March 23, 1972 Cec Bourne of Rivers was presented a 20-year Merit Award from United Grain rowers for his outstanding record in fire prevention.

Six-year-old Kent Forman of Rivers was given the top mark of 88 at a music festival in Winnipeg, Division 1 Violin. Mr. and Mrs. Bill Knight celebrated their 40th anniversary on March 18. A public meeting in Tarbolton district on Friday resulted in residents declaring Spring

Valley School a community centre; Bill Sibbald is the new president. Janice Brerton married Walter Bradley on Saturday. Mary Ann English won third, kindergarten-Grade 3, for her Science Collection project at the provincial science fair March 17 and 18; Robert Moore and Darrel Common also won third prize for their Invisible Ink group project. There were 480 entires from 40 schools in the provincial competition. Tom Smith scored the perfect 29 points while playing crib with Garnet Hilton at Rivers Legion last Wednesday.

35 years ago, March 24, 1982 At its March 15 meeting, Rivers Town Council approved the request

by Prairie Crocus Regional Library to add 250 linear feet of shelving; the renovation project will begin next month. A record number of 44 rinks participated in the annual Rivers Legion mixed bonspiel last weekend; the president trophy was won by Ted Smith and his rink of Art Birch, Sheila Smith and Sharon Birch. RM of Blanshard has received a $4,000 grant to renovate the baseball diamonds at Cardale. Rapid City Hockey Club named Trent Scribner the most valuable player on March 17; Jeffrey Christie was named most improved player.

After nine years with the company, Doug Gill of Rivers has announced his retirement; Vern Davidson from Oak River is the new Smith-Roles Agency representative.

Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Epp had a boy March 11.

25 years ago, March 25, 1992 or the first time in its 20-year history, Forman Motors of Rivers has received

Strathclair Drama Club proudly presents its 35th annual musical production

2017 FINANCIAL PLAN

Behlen Lounge on the upper floor of Riverdale Community Centre, Rivers, Manitoba on the 18th day of April, 2017 at 7 p.m.

Council will hear any person who wishes to make representation, ask questions or register an objeci n n n i n id d. i n n i n i b i nd b in d b n n d in i d M ni i i 6 0 - 2nd n , i , n i , 201 . in d i are encouraged to attend this public hearing.

Kat Bridgeman MM i d ini i

Policing in Riverdale Municipality 2019 ni i i i d id n n licing service for the entire municipality. Riverdale Municipality is serviced by Rivers Police Service in the community of Rivers and RCMP in the rural area.

Council would like to engage all rural and urban residents, following the Financial Plan hearing, to discuss moving forward with a local police service covering the entire municipality.

Where: Behlen Lounge When: April 18, 2017, following the 2017 Financial Plan Hearing

RIVERS MINOR BASEBALL annual general meeting/registration

TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 7 P.M.

Redfern Hall, Riverdale Community Centre, Rivers

Public notice regarding the PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Subsection 162 (2) of The Municipal Act that the Council of Riverdale Municipality intends to present i n n i n 201 bi hearing in the

the Distinguished Achievement Award for Quality (1991)

by Ford Motor Company. Mr. and Mrs. Barry Sanderson had twins, a boy and a girl, on March 11.

15 years ago, March 23, 2002 Following competition at the provincial Peewee B girls hockey tournament March 15-17, forward Rosanna Common of Tri-Town Panthers was named to the provincial all-star team. The 12-year-old scored 12 goals in the four games and helped her team place fourth.

5 years ago, March 23, 2012 Although opened since Dec. 23, Riverdale Community Centre held its grand opening on March 17; 300 people attended and witnessed the ribbon cutting done by six government officials. n arch 1 olson oors ommunity heer program announced Rivers Recreation Facilities Review Committee would receive $75,000 for its eighth-place finish in the six-week online voting contest ivers was the only Manitoba entry shortlisted from more than 100 pro ects submitted. The annual 10,000 tagged fish derby on March 10 was sold out with all 250 tickets purchased and an additional 32 youth competing for free; Rivers and Area Game and Fish Association did not have to pay out big bucks, for none of the three tagged fish were caught. Mr. and Mrs. Cliff Burt celebrated their 70th anniversary on March 18.

First year players need a copy of their birth certificate.

Registration deadline is Friday, March 31.

We are also looking for people interested in being part of the executive committee and/or team coaches.

Based on the Touchstone Pictures motion picture, Sister Act, written by Joseph Howard. Music by Alan Menken. Lyrics by Glenn Slater. Book by Bill Steinkellner and Cheri Steinkellner. Additional Book by Douglas Carter Beane. Sister Act is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 Tel: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684 www.MTIShows.com

April 24-29, 2017

Bend Theatre, Strathclair 7:30 p.m. nightly Tickets go on sale Saturday, March 25 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Phone 204-365-2436 M in (P

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Box office hours March 27-April 21: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Monday-Friday.

Please leave a message on our answering machine as a waiting list is available.

Note: Sister Act contains mature themes and adult language.

Find us on Facebook! facebook.com/Strathclairdramaclub

Mid-West Weed District PUBLIC NOTICE

Public notice is hereby given that Mid-West Weed District intends to conduct the following pesticide programs du in 201 : 1. To control noxious weeds on rights-of-way within the municipalities of Hamiota, Oakview and Riverdale, including all villages and towns within. The projected dates of application i b M 1 b 1, 201 . bi id b d in d : 2, in 600 2, E 00 Mi n ( in id) i i n (2, - , M , i b ) d n 22 ( i ) E ( n) n (di b ) n i ( in , n) Fi ( n F E ) E n d n.

2.To control grasshoppers. The projected dates i i n i i b i 1 b 1, 201 in i id b d in d : E n( b ).

The public may send written submissions or objeci n i n i in 1 d bi i n i n i d n b : Manitoba Sustainable Development, En i n n n , 0, i 160, 12 M in , inni ,M 1

Rivers Banner Perspective

4

A problem of perspective?

Tundra

O

by Chad Carpenter

Random thoughts P

remier Brian Pallister said this week that the unions no longer run this province.

It’s about time that was stated, as the unions have been running Manitoba for far too long. And running the province into the ground I might add.

I would be the first to defend the unions when they advocate for worker safety, when they defend the rights of workers.

But the role of the unions has to also take a realistic approach to wage demands versus the ability of Manitoba to pay.

Unrealistic wage demands may be increases that are beyond the economic scope of the province or it may be a unrealistic approach to employee numbers. I am thankful, and I suspect many teachers are relieved that the class size limit restriction has been taken away.

The intent was fine, to provide better educations for grades K-4.

The results just weren't there and the province has canned the rule. Educational outcomes don’t conclusively correlate to class size. In fact, smaller class sizes may cause some relationship dynamics that are harder to manage than with larger classes.

The other very real problem with a cap of 20 is what does a school do when they have 22 students in a grade? Do they have to have two classes of 11 each?

That’s ridiculous, but that’s what you get when you have arbitrary, ill founded rules. Of course the Manitoba Teachers Society was officially outraged but I suspect many members were muttering under their breath for the MTS to give it a rest already.

Manitoba has to figure out how to defeat the deficit. No one in their right mind can argue that point. To continue to build our debt annually is simply not feasible. There are only two ways to

RIVERS

BANNER Est. 1908

STAFF

MARCH 24, 2017

RIGHT IN THE CENTRE

KEN WADDELL cut a deficit, either cut expenses or increase income. That’s it, cut and dried.

So nobody wants to see a lower level of front line services. We all want good health care and good education. There can be some cuts there, but are there other areas we can look at. How about the Public Utilities Board? Why do we need that whole organization? Let me explain. Neepawa applied in 2011 for new water rates. For variety of reasons, it took six years to get approval.

Six years! That is ridiculous. But the bigger question is why does the PUB have any say over water rates? If Neepawa wants to, or needs to, charge more or less than Minnedosa, or Stonewall, or wherever, what does the province care? In fact, what business is it of the province anyway? The towns have a lot of time and money tied up at their town offices struggling with making sure every rate and sub-rate will pass PUB inspection and it’s really none of the province’s business.

Water rates for every town go through PUB, except I am told the City of Winnipeg. Now that makes sense doesn’t it? I bet the water rates in First Nations Communities don’t go through PUB either. In many FN communities and many smaller communities, actually getting clean water is an issue, at any price. PUB oversees hydro rates, gas rates and Autopac rates. I say we don’t need the

00 Celebrating more than 1

years

Gazette-Reporter Serving the Rivers, Rapid City, Oak River areas and more

PUB. If we don’t like our rates, elect a different government.

Why do we have an Assessment Branch? We employ a small army of well intentioned people to go around figuring out what properties are worth.

They assign a value to supposedly “reflect” market value, then it is apportioned or scaled down and then a mill rate is applied.

How dumb is that? Why not use the current assessment and add a small amount each year for inflation and then apply a reasonable percentage tax? Then, when a property sells, apply the new value.

Maybe we should sell Hydro.

Maybe we should sell Autopac and open up auto insurance for competition. Maybe there are a number of elective medical procedures that should not be funded. Why does a person have to have collision insurance on their own vehicle if they don’t want to have it? Third party liability is a must and insurance on the other person’s vehicle is a must, but if someone doesn’t want to insure their own vehicle against damage, why should they have to do so?

The Manitoba government is standing back for a minute to examine the cost of doing business. Let’s just hope they look far enough so that we don’t slide into bankruptcy.

ne of the things I love most about my job is that every week, I get to look at what I’ve created. Every week is a new adventure with tangible results, I can flip through the pages and see the results of our work. If you’ve ever built something from scratch or made something broken work, you know the satisfaction that comes from the skilled trades. Not just that, but you also know how important they are.

Despite the vital importance of skilled tradespeople to all facets of our lives and economy, there MY continues to be PERSPECTIVE a shortage of young people entering a career in the ATE trades. With boomers getACKMAN TKINSON ting set to retire, shortages are expected in a number of areas.

In Manitoba, there are 55 recognized trades, with apprenticeship programs. These are formal arrangements in which a newcomer to the industry learns their trade by working with an experienced tradesperson. It’s a system that dates back to the guilds of Medieval Europe. Much the way universities and colleges award diplomas and degrees, a tradesperson earns formal certification, ending in a journeyperson certification, through their apprenticeship program.

In the past, trades were commonly associated with greasy rags and mindlessly swinging a hammer, but that doesn’t really describe the bulk of skilled trades today. It’s a stereotype that has persisted despite a changing reality. Like the rest of the economy, many trades have gone high tech too. Many tradespeople make use of math, science and computer skills. They use critical thinking to diagnose and solve problems. They use their artistic skills to create products for their customers. Many tradespeople are also small business owners.

Additionally, the trades have something very attractive in today’s world— the jobs are very insulated from the risk of automation or transfer offshore. Someone in Mexico can’t fix your car, someone in England can’t cut your hair and someone in China can’t fix your house roof. The work must be done where people live, the same can’t be said about many other jobs.

The recognition that trades provide a meaningful and gainful employment path has lead to a more focused approach in recruiting young Canadians. Changes to legislation now requiring students to stay in school until the age of 18, or graduation, has also resulted in more school divisions partnering with industry and incorporating apprenticeships programs into their educational offering. Such partnerships give students interested in a career in the trades some exposure and a leg up.

The tides are starting to turn, according to Statistics Canada data released in 2016, the number of apprentices in the country has been rising. Over all major trade groups, there were 451,140 registered apprentices in 2014, up from 430,452 in 2010. However, the overall trends hide variations within different industries. For example, automotive service, carpenters, exterior finishers, hairstylists and machinists all saw a decline in the number of apprentices over that time period.

Despite all of the positives, why do these shortages persist?

Some argue that young people are turned off by the outdated stereotypes perpetuated in television and movies. Mike Rowe, TV personality and trades advocate, recently released a video critical of the way tradespeople are portrayed in Hollywood. He opens the video saying, “Close your eyes and picture a plumber.

Is he 300 pounds? Can you see his butt crack? I bet you can.”

Despite this common image, I don’t think I know any plumbers who look like this. Rowe uses clips from movies like “Office Space”, “Cable Guy”, and “Tommy Boy” that show skilled tradespeople as rude, sleazy, lazy, stupid and poor. Something that’s not conducive to the industry’s recruiting needs. He might be on to something.

This is where initiatives like high school apprenticeship programs can have an added benefit, by introducing young people to actual tradespeople, they can form an option based on fact, not based on the search for a punchline.

K J

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PUBLISHED EVERY FRIDAY 529 Second Avenue, Box 70, Rivers, MB R0K 1X0 AD DEADLINE: TUESDAY 5 PM PRIOR TO ISSUE DATE Telephone: 204-328-7494 Fax: 204-328-5212 E-mail: info@riversbanner.com Website: www.riversbanner.com Rivers Banner does not guarantee publication of any submitted articles or picYearly Subscription Rates (excluding taxes): $40.00 in Manitoba, $50 elsewhere in Canada

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Opinion What grace can’t erase FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 2017

A

fter completing last week’s column, I spent additional time reflecting on the life and experiences of King David. As I did, I was struck by the fact that there are some things not even the grace of God can erase — at least, not in this life.

That was the case with King David. His sins were punishable by death. But David received favour he did not deserve. God set aside the death penalty.

David was allowed to live, but his life was far from the idyllic life he enjoyed in his first years as king.

David’s sins triggered a series of consequences he was powerless to control. He had to deal with deceit, treachery, adultery,

FAITHFULLY YOURS NEIL STROHSCHEIN murder and rebellion in his family and in the highest ranks of his government.

One of his sons rebelled against him, forcing him into exile. The rebellion was put down quickly, but the people were in no hurry to reinstate David as king. They were prepared to let him die in exile, after which they would pledge allegiance to his successor. David wasn’t even allowed to die in peace.

He had to abdicate and pass the kingdom on to his son Solomon in order

to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.

The consequences of David’s sin followed him to the day he died. As difficult as this might be for us to accept and believe, this too was an act of God’s amazing grace. The David who came back to Jerusalem following his sin and exile was a far different David than the one who had been deposed and forced to run for his life.

He never forgot his sins.

Nor did he forget the pain they had brought to him,

his family, his kingdom and most of all, to his God. The post-exilic David was more diligent, more devoted to duty, kinder, more loving and caring than he had ever been before. He was a different person, thanks to what he had suffered.

David’s story is not unique. It is repeated (to a greater or lesser extent) in the life of every person who has ever lived on this planet. We all sin, and just like He did with David, God allows us to suffer the consequences of our sins. Then, to help us keep from doing the same things again, He does not erase the memories of those events from our minds. Nor does He force those hurt by our actions to forget the pain

Examining my backpack

E

ach of us carries an invisible backpack. It is filled with things that make us who we are and, too often, determines our place in the universe. One of the biggest items I carry is that I am born and raised in North America — Canada in particular. Travelling abroad, the little anadian flag opens doors and softens interchanges. t’s not an actual flag carry, but being Canadian is respected and respectful.

Our standard of living, our education system and yes, our political system, are some of the assets we carry.

Taking those items one by one and looking more closely at them, standard of living: I was raised lower-middle class. We had running water, TV more than enough to eat, meaningful work, and time, energy and resources to take vacations. A solid home in which to live, a re-

HOMEBODIES

RITA FRIESEN liable vehicle and enough to share with others. What a wealth of riches!

Education: I attended a well-run public school that challenged independent thinking. (I didn’t get kicked out when I started a petition, signed by all but two girls – my sister and her friend — when I disagreed with a school policy trying to dictate that all girls wear dresses or skirts to school. We won.) I attained my high school diploma when my older children attained theirs. Since then I have continued to collect bits and pieces of education and feel confident and competent in the work I do.

Our political system: I

get to vote. No one monitors my activity or my political party choice. I am proud to be a Manitoban, for it was our own Nellie McClung that spearheaded women’s right to cast a ballot.

There are more valuables in my backpack. I experience great physical health. My bout with sciatica, a time when I questioned whether I could or would ever walk again; my surgery for a left frontal aneurism. These taught me health is never a given and always a gift. I have a deep compassion for those who suffer. I am blessed with a sound mind, a stable state of mental health. There are several individuals

whom I cherish and love deeply who suffer from anxiety, depression and mood disorders. I cannot look away or ignore such pain. With my gifts come responsibility.

Another wondrous item in my backpack is financial independence. Garnered in part by my place in Canada – Old Age Security Income, Canada Pension Plan and the proceeds of hard work and careful spending. I recall too clearly the season when I was a single parent of two small children, living with my parents and relying on municipal assistance for $65 a month.

One more treasure I carry is one I did not work for, I did not win or earn: I am Caucasian. We, as a community, country and world, are improving at seeing people as people. We have more work to do on this one.

I give thanks for all I am.

The novel describing becoming a caregiver to someone with dementia. Based on actual events in Manitoba.

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RIVERS BANNER 5

they suffered at our hands.

He asks them to forgive us, but He also knows that relationships fractured by sin can never be the same again.

We can’t undo what has been done in the past. The most we can do is seek and find od’s forgiveness, make amends where possible and move on, living our lives in such a way that all those around us will be able to see that, like King David, we are different people thanks to the mistakes we’ve made, the suffering we’ve

endured and the changes we’ve made in our lives.

That won’t always be easy. Society may not be as forgiving as God is. Society may impose restrictions on us because of our sins. Clouds of suspicion may always hover over us, sometimes right up to the day we die. But at that moment, we will experience God’s grace in a way we could never have imagined. For at death, we will enter a world where our past is no more and where, at last, we can rest in peace.

Observation

By Addy Oberlin

During our lifetime we encounter many changes. I have lived in many different houses, from apartments, attics, mobile homes and not to forget, a farm. They were all great experiences and I know that each time I had a roof over my head and a bed to sleep in.

We started out with borrowed furniture when I came from Europe, but now I can say that I own my bed and the chair I sit on.

Even today there are people who do not have a bed to sleep on. Some only have the clothes they are wearing because they are fleeing from natural disasters and wars.

When Jesus walked and ministered on this earth, He spent time with friends; even His disciples depended on the goodwill of others to survive. Jesus did not own a home, not even a bed to sleep on, but His Heavenly Father supplied all His needs.

Philippians 4:19 tells us God will supply all our needs — maybe not all our wants, but certainly all our needs — if we will let Him.

110TH

Royal Manitoba

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6 RIVERS BANNER MARCH 24, 2017

RIVERS BANNER MARCH 24, 2017 7

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Furniture, Appliances, Electronics Available100 in$$ Twin, within miles 99 INVIGORATE 1199 799 within 100 miles Double & Queen (on over 660purchases Foam Encased Pocket Coils $498) Furniture, Appliances, (on purchases over $498) Free delivery and remo Also available in Twin and Double Free delivery and removal Free delivery and remo 3635 Victoria Avenue,Brandon, MB Rebuilt Concaves Electronics Available100 in Twin, 3635 Victoriawithin Avenue,Brandon, MB miles within 100 miles within miles Rebuilt Combine Table Augers • Rebuild Hydraulic Cylinders Tel: 204-727-4444 Double &100 Queen (on purchases over $498) Tel: 204-727-4444 (on purchases over $498) Roller Mills Regrooved • MFWD Housings Rebuilt (on 1-800-267-4441 purchases over $498) Toll Free: ....

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P: (204) 727-0531 (204) 727-0531 1550 RichmondP:Ave 1550 Richmond (204) 726-9160 1550 Richmond AveAve F: F: (204) 726-9160 Brandon, MB R7A 7E3 Brandon, R7A 1-866-980-3757 Brandon, MBMB R7A 7E37E3 TF:TF: 1-866-980-3757 mikew@murraychryslerwestman.com mikew@murraychryslerwestman.com (204) 724-7825 mikew@murraychryslerwestman.com C: C: (204) 724-7825 www.murraychryslerwestman.com www.murraychryslerwestman.com

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Peewees play at provincials

8 RIVERS BANNER March 24, 2017

By Kent Wareham Coach Rivers Jets peewee team played in Gimli March 10-12 at the Hockey Manitoba Rural A Provincials. There were nine teams in total which represented every region in the province.

Rivers was the lone representative from the Yellowhead region. ets played five games in total losing to Carman 7-4 and winning over Warren 9-2 in round robin play. In the uarter-final playoff game, ivers beat Altona 7-5 and then moved onto the semifinal game vs. wan alley, which they lost 6-3. This put them in the bronze medal game, facing Carman once again. Rivers returned the earlier round robin favour and ended up beating Carman 7-4, to win the bronze medal.

Provincial competition was a great effort and accomplishment for this small group of players from our area. It was also a good ending to a fun season.

Back row L/R: Coaches Glenn Dyck, Kent Wareham, Steve Hamm. Second row L/R: Zane Dyck, Layton Veitch, Ben Roulette, Ryan Taylor, Connor Dawson, William Janz.

Third row L/R: Andrew Hamm, Jesse Mann, Shane Ellis, Dwayne Oman. Goalie Jase Wareham. Missing: Nolan Perreault, coach Ryan Veitch, manager Christa Veitch.

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Are you readyscholarship for a tornado?

RCI/BU

By Vern ByMay Sheila Runions Tornado Banner warning Staff for Brandon, conrmed touchdown Environment Canada is the authority on weather t Manitou, funnel clouds spotted at Killarney.

If there is bulletins, though we may also hear from Manitoba ast December this paper printed a story by Mike educator, he was dismayed at a magazine report regardnything that theCzuboka severe weather over the past few weeks Weather Network and other local media outlets more and his desire to create a scholarship ing BU; his scholarship aims to improve that record. has taught us, it’sfor this: it CAN happen here.

There were immediately.

A tornado watch is issued when weather Rivers students. He is so passionate about “As reported by Maclean’s in their annual 2016 report, probably many us staying over weekend as spent conditions are favourable to produce a tornado; however, this ideaof which began tuned brewing lastthe fall, that he has and in earlier editions, BU is ranked last — 19th out of he alerts were being issued. a warning is more serious. A warning indicates that a hundreds of dollars printing and mailing letters to former 19 Canadian primarily undergraduate universities — with In thestaff event a tornado warning wasas issued for your tornado has occurred or has a high likelihood of being atthat Rivers Collegiate as well business, organizarespect to scholarships and bursaries. This unfortunate own today, you know to do? Are you familiar about to occur. tions,dochurches andwhat individuals in Rivers.

Last month characteristic helps to place BU in a lower overall with your emergency response planasand thestudent The safest place to be during a tornado is a low spot he community paid for an ad in these pages, as well BU’s ranking. Of greater importance, however, is the fact nformation for theand community is includedthe inscholarship that in an interior room away from windows, such as an innewspaper, last weekthat he announced that students at BU are handicapped because of limited plan? Ithas maybeen be time to get familiar with that documentpledges ner room in the basement or underneath the stairs to the approved!

His proposal has received financial support. The late rofessor ill aton, whom o you know what to Brandon, do to keep yourRussell, family Wayne safe. and Irene basement. Rooms that have extra support in the walls from Michael Hugh I miss very much, told me on more than one occasion Behind only United States, Canada the most tor-enough such as bathrooms are also ideal as bathroom pipes Pettapiece, Sheila Runions andsees himself.

With that BU’s scholarship program needs to be enhanced. My nado activity annually each year –the focused on southern provide extra support to the walls. Mobile homes and committed dollars in place, scholarship was approved goal is to encourage the top-standing academic students Ontarioby and the three Prairie With theand peak camper trailers are very unsafe places to take shelter as Rolling River Schoolprovinces.

Division and RCI approved from Rivers to enrol in BU.” ctivityin forprinciple tornadoes any time betweenthree Aprilmonths they are not anchored to the ground. byoccurring BU; it could be another The as yet unnamed scholarship payout will continue nd September, right at the heart a potential Get informed and stay safe. For more information before we’re ’s final acceptance at a of uarterly scholarship to increase as more and more people support it. BU has a mergency right now.

On average, 43 tornadoes occur visit: Public Safety Canada http://www.publicsafety. committee meeting. convenient monthly credit card withdrawal system (or for ach yearAlthough on the prairies. gc.ca/res/em/nh/to/index-eng.aspx or Environment Mike now lives in Winnipeg, he grew one-time donations) which makes the method of providDo you the difference between weather watch Canada http://www.ec.gc.ca. up know in Rivers (1937-50), taking aGrades 1-11 at Rivers ing these donations hassle-free. For more information, nd a weather warning?

Consolidated School. Because that school only offered or to donate to this fund, please contact ’s ffice of education to Grade 11, he took Grade 12 at Brandon Advancement & External Relations at advancement@ College, which is now called Brandon University (BU). brandonu.ca or phone 204-727-9715/1-877-282-4483.

Following service with the army (serving in the Korean Monthly amounts begin as low as $10, will be kept War), his career became that of an educator; he was a confidential by and at year end, will send you a teacher in Brandon, principal of Neelin High School, charitable receipt for income tax purposes. lecturer at Brandon College/University, superintendent Although the primary sponsors (Mike, Michael, for Agassiz School Division (21 years) and he taught at Wayne, Irene and Hugh) have contacted a number of University of Manitoba for 25 years. As a professional their classmates from both RCI and BU, they are ask-

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ing all readers to supply them with names of students from either institution. Please contact them (czuboka@ mymts.net, mbrandon@lssd.ca, pettapwi@telusplanet. net, hughrussell@gmail.com) or phone Mike at 204287-8609.

Michael Brandon and Hugh Russell graduated from RCI in 1988 and BU 1993. Michael has taught music for more than two decades in Lord Selkirk School Division and lives in Winnipeg. Hugh continued his musical education in New York (1998) and Ohio (2000), all while establishing his career as a baritone opera singer, which has taken him to concert halls around the globe. Wayne Pettapiece grew up in the Pettapiece district northwest of Rivers and attended elementary school there. He went to high school in Rivers (1952-55) and at Rivers airbase (1956) before completing Grade 12 at Brandon College. With a PhD in soil science, his career began in 1963 with the research branch of Agriculture Canada in Edmonton, where he still lives with wife Irene. Irene is from Carroll, Man. but she taught Grade 4 in Rivers from 1 - 0 teaching that first year on a permit while she herself was still in Grade 11. She took Grade 12 by correspondence, then attended the Teacher Training College at Brandon). After she and Wayne married in 1960, they moved to Winnipeg for two years before Wayne’s job took them to Edmonton. Irene was a fulltime homemaker who committed many volunteer hours to the Girl Guide movement.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Hair Dynamics

Stylist Heather Fast Stylist Wendy Harder Stylist/nail tech Melissa Roberds OPEN Tues., Wed. and Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon

ANDREA ADAMSON

Minnedosa-based mobile dental hygienist

• Residential & Commercial • Farm Wiring & Trenching

Personal care homes Home care

Brandon - Rivers

PROS AT YOUR204-761-2192 FINGERTIPS Way-Mor Mini Mini storage storage units Agencies Ltd. units for forrent. rent. KNIGHT

Ph. 204-328-7435

204-807-9496 adamsondahyg@gmail.com

CL

van Veen Carpentry Ltd.

Specializing in residential, commercial, farm building.

LEO OR CHERRY VAN VEEN 204-826-2292 or clcarpentry@hotmail.ca

CMA CANADA

• Residential & Commercial New home builds; Major • Farm Wiring & Trenching

renovations; Plumbing HVAC; Brandon - Rivers Geothermal experts.

204-761-2192 kcandb.ca/204-725-3691

*FrExcavating ame and Stud Fra ost Farm Buildings me P * Plumbing and heating

Hamiota ~ Brandon ~Shaping Souris the Future Killarney  ~ Pilot Mound   CCOUNTING ERVICE

A

Ph. Ph.204-328-7893 204-328-7893

Place Place Emporium Emporium

* Excavating * Plumbing and heating * Gravel, stone and rip rap * Snow removal * Demolition Jake: 204-761-0900 Tyson: 204-761-8765 * Septic tanks and fields

* Gravel, stone and rip rap * Snow removal Johan’s Construction Ltd. * Demolitioncell 204-745-7628 1-0900 204-328-7310 ce tanks andoffi fields 1-8765 * Septic “Building for all your farm needs!”

d area

RIVERS BANNER March 24, 2017 9

...because the memories are what we cherish

Funerals, Cremations, Receptions

204.727.0330 or

S



CertiHamiota: ed Management Accountants  71 Maple Ave E



 204-764-2544 

Hamiota: 71 Maple Ave. 204-764-2544

Brandon: Unit E 2425 Victoria Ave Brandon: 20-18th St., 204-727-5927 1-888-726-1995

knightcm@mymts.net www.allianceaccounting.ca

ALEXANDER 204-764-2744 ELECTRIC FUNERAL DIRECTOR Dwayne Campbell ~ 204-764-2746 204-721-4320

Jeannie Bos

204-573-1150

Hunt,Dynamics Miller Hair & Co. LLP Stylists and nail technician

Phone 204-727-8491 or Phone 204-727-0694 or 204-328-7540 (Thursdays, 1-800-897-5694 Phone 204-720-1610 2-5 p.m.) for appointments. www.brockiedonovan.com since 1906.

For all your electrical needs

Professional Painting & Decorating

Residential carpenter for hire Hunt, Miller Jack Cram, Lawyer

204.759.3313 Toll Free 844.877.7767 gregnesbittmla@mymts.net #7 515 4th Avenue Burlington Place, Shoal Lake, MB

Jeannie’s Interiors Rapid City, MB jeanniesinteriors@hotmail.com

& Co. LLP

Phone 204-328-7540 204-566-2490

ForHamiota’s all your electrical needs

1.888.694.8153 1-855-727-0330 | 204-727-0330 www.memorieschapel.com www.memorieschapel.com

20 years’ experience.

Big or small jobs, we do them all.

Reliable.

Serving Rivers Reasonable and area rates.

Insurance, Travel, Investments, Real Estate

on staff , Lawyer Jack Cram OPEN Phone or Tues., Wed.204-727-8491 and Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

204-328-7540 (Thursdays, Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon

2-5 p.m.) for appointments.

Ph. 204-328-7435

Ph. 204-724-6870 Fax 204-328-4407 alepp@redlinetransport.ca Dry bulk transportation

ALEXANDER ELECTRIC 204-721-4320

10 RIVERS BANNER March 24, 2017

RIVERS

BANNER CLASSIFIEDS

PLACE YOUR AD BY:

PHONE: 204-328-7494 FAX: 204-328-5212 E-MAIL: info@riversbanner.com

DEADLINE: TUESDAY AT 5 P.M. Minimum charge: $5+GST Extra insertions: 1/2 original price

Classifieds MUST be PREPAID Visa/Mastercard accepted Auction

Thank You I would like to thank all those who came to my birthday party, for the cards and donations received for Rivers Civic Centre. Special thanks to Shelley and Myles for planning the noon luncheon. Lil

LET OUR CLASSIFIEDS WORK FOR YOU!

Get province wide coverage for only $189 or buy one of our two regions for only $119 Phone Rivers Banner at 1-204-328-7494 or MCNA at 1-800-782-0051

Invitation

LIVESTOCK

49th Annual Lundar Bull Sale, April 1, 2017. For sale: Gelbvieh, Hereford, Simmental, Angus, Charolais. Also, selling 7 pens of three - yearling heifers. Sale time 1:00pm. Contact Jim at 204-467-8809 or Connie at 204-739-5264.

Visit our catalogue on www.buyagro.com

MOBILE HOMES

3 ONLY 16 x 80, 3 Bed, 2 Bath. Starting at $89,900. Altona Mobile Homes, 1-800-5824036, 1-204-324-6776 Email amhl@mymts.net

MISCELLANEOUS

Display kitchens $3500.

Traded in deluxe oak kitchen $1200.(InStock) White shaker kitchens 60% off. Cancelled custom kitchens 70% off. Fehr’s Cabinet Warehouse Ph: 1-800 758-6924

HEALTH

CANADA BENEFIT GROUP – Attention Manitoba residents: Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Tollfree 1-888-511-2250 or www.canadabenefit.ca/ free-assessment DISABILITY? ADHD? – Do you have a DISABILITY? We can help you get up to $50,000 back from the Canadian Government. FOR DETAILS CALL US TODAY TollFree 1-888-875-4787 or Visit us at: disabilitygroupcanada.com

STEEL BUILDINGS

PRICED TO SELL! 20X21 $5,997, front and back walls incl. 30X33 $7,339, no ends incl.

35X37 $11,782, one wall incl. Check out www.pioneersteel.ca for more prices. Pioneer Steel 1-855-212-7036

LAND FOR RENT

A G R I C U LT U R A L LEASES BEAUDRY PROVINCIAL PARK - Sealed tenders for the right to cultivate agricultural lands(s) within Beaudry Provincial Park will be received

by Crown Lands & Property Agency, Crown Lands Act Dispositions, 308-25 Tupper Street North, Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, R1N 3K1 until 12:00 noon, Wednesday, April 12th, 2017. Bids must be accompanied by a deposit (money order, certified cheque or bank draft) of 10% of the bid amount (plus applicable GST) made payable to the Minister of Finance of Manitoba. Agricultural lands available for lease for 2017 to 2022 inclusive, will include portions of River Lots 4 to 11 and 15 to 19 inclusive in the Parish of Saint Francois Xavier in the R.M. of Cartier.

Tender forms, maps and information materials are available at the above address, online at http://www.clpamb.ca/ leases_and_permits/ LPproperties.aspx or may be requested by telephoning 1-866-2109589.

Obituary

Please join us for a wedding shower in honour of

Teresa Dyck, bride-elect of Bryce Juliak,

Saturday, April 8 at 2 p.m. at Rivers United Church There is a community donation at Rivers Home Hardware. Please bring your favourite recipe to share with Teresa.

Services Purchase Refinance

Alica Fulford

Council ci s

ro incia c assifieds

Renewal

Rentals Mortage Broker Construction 204-573-4859

www.alicafulford.ca

Your Mortgage, Your Way, Your Broker

Brandon, MB • Minnedosa, MB

204-717-9090

Your local source for electrical and solar!

DOUG LONGSTAFF Douglas Earnest Longstaff passed away at Minnedosa Hospital on March 10, 2017 at the age of 96. He was born on October 30, 1920 in Blanshard Municipality, to Earnest and Beatrice Longstaff. He was the third child of six.

Doug attended school at Cardale. He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force in October 1941 and served in Annette Island in Alaska, England, India and Burma. When he returned home after the war, he took i di ni i of Manitoba and in the spring of 1947 he began farming.

Doug married Mildred McLaren on October 25, 1952. He and Mildred farmed until 1973 then Doug took up crop adjusting. Doug loved the farm and enjoyed gardening, which he continued throughout his life. Doug will be remembered for his positive outlook and grateful heart.

Mildred passed away October 1988. Doug moved to Minnedosa in 1989 where he kept himself busy volunteering at the heritage park and driving the handivan. Doug was an active member in the legion. He married Ruby Campbell in September of 2006. They enjoyed taking drives to check on the crops nd in i nd .

Doug was predeceased by his sister Winnie Yorke, brothers Charlie and Rolland, brothers- in-law Tom Yorke and Bert Baldwin, nephews Bruce Longstaff and Ray Baldwin. He is survived by his second wife Ruby, brother William (Peggy), sister Mary Baldwin and many nieces and nephews.

The funeral service was held at Minnedosa Covenant Church and he was laid to rest at Rapid City cemetery.

Donations may be given to Minnedosa Covenant Church, Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum in Brandon or Minnedosa Legion.

Minnedosa Funeral Service in care of arrangements.

FOR SALE

AUCTION

B AT T E R I E S F O R EVERYTHING. Auto, farm, construction, ATV, marine, motorcycle, golf carts, phones, tools, radios, computers etc. Reconditioned, obsolete and hard-to-find batteries. SOLAR systems.

The Battery Man. Winnipeg. 1.877.775.8271 www.batteryman.ca

UNRESERVED EQUIPMENT AUCTION. Tuesday, April 25, 2017, 9 a.m., Winnipeg, Manitoba. After 61 years McEwen Bros. Ltd. is retiring. CPA is proud to be conducting the auction. To consign call Don Kerr 403-371-8195; canadianpublicauction. com.

Riverdale Municipality, Feb. 28: ecycling bins are still being filled with bagged recyclables larger signs clearly EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES stating that recyclables are to be loose MEDICAL TRANwill be posted. ouncil will allow the SCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employoperation of acred cres edding ers have work-at-home enue ucks nlimited as a permitted positions available.

Get online training you use hall under the oning bylaw. The need from an employertrusted program. Visit: rontier drainage permit application CareerStep.ca/MT or was tabled. renda isler has resigned 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-atfrom rairie rocus egional ibrary home career today! oard elen tewart was appointed to MANUFACthe library board for the 01 1 year.

TURED HOMES The following were appointed to iverU LT R A A F F O R D ABLE, modern homes dale ommunity entre board en Tait, for Manitoba starting at $90,000 delivered. council ent areham, hockey ennis Don’t overpay! 2017’s eitch, curling erald epp, skating available now; www. bestbuyhousing.com. pril Toews, dance amie c adden Text/Call 204-800-0065.

Winnipeg, Brandon, and rant ill, members at large aura Grand Beach. Canada’s illingham, facility manager. ouncil, largest home selection! and were authori ed to attend NOTICE Advertisements and a municipal officials seminar in innipeg statements contained on pril 1 and 1 mayor Todd ill and herein are the sole responsibility of the perat ridgeman were authori ed sons or entities that post to attend a mayors, reeves and ’s the advertisements.

Manitoba Community meeting in innipeg on pril 11 all shall Newspaper Association and its membership do have related expenses paid. bylaw to not make any warranty regulate a reduced speed within a school as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulone passed first reading. ouncillor ave ness or reliability of such advertisements. alkevitch suggested the possibility of For greater information a fish cleaning station by the river fish on advertising conditions, please consult the waste is still being placed in garbage Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions containers. ublic works will see about on our website at www. getting larger garbage receptacles secured mcna.com. in place there as small containers are always overflowing. urther correspondence was received regarding ack pine spruce seedlings planted on native prairie grass the concerned party has offered to call in a wildlife biologist to report to council on the issue. ensus results show the municipality’s population has increased to 1 , up from ,01 at last count.

Finances: ccounts of 4, 0. and utility of , . 4 were passed for payment. ublic works supervisor raige adden was authori ed to attend the anitoba ood oads ban uet and awards presentation on pril 11 to accept the est aintained ystem of ural unicipal oads, lass 1 ward two tickets at 0 each will be purchased for the event all other related expenses will be paid.

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 400,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or email classified@mcna.com for details.

FLOOR MODEL LIQUIDATION SALE! Biggest savings of the year on floor model suites storewide in bedroom, upholstery, leather and table sets.

Save 20-65%! Some sample specials include; 4 piece England (a Lay-z-boy Company) Sectional $2195, save $750. Queen sleeper sofa (England furniture) for $995, save $525, England power reclining sofa and matching reclining chair, $2695, save $850, 2 six-piece youth bedroom suites from $895-$1099, save $475 per suite. 8 piece solid oak 96 inch table set, $2495, save $800.

Seven piece queen solid wood bedroom suite $2499, save $1000.

8 piece queen solid wood bedroom suite for $2895, save $1150.

TAXES INCLUDED IN ALL FLOORMODEL SUITES. Other March specials include queen pillow top pocket coil mattress set $499 and 3 piece occasional set (3 choices) for $299 per set. See staff or contact KDL for more information on other specials.

Mon-Fri 10-8, Sat 10-6 & Sun 11-5. Call KDL Furniture at 204-5711971. 660 Highland Ave., South side of #1 Hwy., Brandon.

Parts and full trailer repair, trailer safeties and Autopac trailer repair. Sales, leasing and financing of flatdeck, dumpbox, cargo, gooseneck and utility trailers and truck beds.

Kaldeck Truck & Trailer, Hwy #1 MacGregor, Mb. 1-888-685-3127.

HARDY TREE, SHRUB, and berry seedlings delivered. Order online at www.treetime.ca or call 1-866-873-3846. New growth guaranteed.

RCI-BU scholarship monthly contributions n i

nd n ni i ( ni. i d n nd id n nd ni nd n ib i nd contributions or one-time gifts. All donations are tax-deductible. i

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or more information or to donate to t is fund ease contact ’s ffice of d ancement terna e ations at ad ancement randonu ca or one Did you ever go to school in Rivers? Do you know any RCI/BU alumni?

The scholarship sponsors would like to hear from you! Please contact Mike Czuboka, czuboka@mymts.net; Michael Brandon, mbrandon@lssd.ca; Wayne or Irene Pettapiece, pettapwi@telusplanet.net; Hugh Russell hughrussell@gmail.com; or RCI principal Mike Klassen: mklassen@rrsd.mb.ca.

RIVERS BANNER March 24, 2017 11

Canyon: Canada’s most efficient truck?

By Ben Castle

Headline figures for GM’s new Canyon and Colorado diesel mid-size pickup trucks are 369 pound feet of torque, 7,700 pounds maximum towing and 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres highway. In other markets, Ford, Nissan, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Volkswagen and Isuzu will all sell you a mid-size diesel truck that will tow up to 3.5 tonnes but for now, here in Canada, GM is offering something rather unique in the marketplace, with the only comparable vehicle being the larger and more expensive full-size Ram 1500 Ecodiesel. This strategy appears to be meeting with some success; Canyon/Colorado sales are up 30 per cent last year, since the introduction of the diesel option.

With combined sales of 12,562 units in 2016, it narrowly outstripped the mid-size favourite, Toyota Tacoma. Does the new Canyon/Colorado diesel

Photo by Ben Castle

genuinely offer the holy grail of compact car fuel economy and full-size truck capability, all in a less expensive, more manoeuvrable package?

GMC Canyon/Chevrolet Colorado is available in 2WD or 4WD, extended or crew cab bodystyles with either a short or long box and choice of four-cylinder, V6 or diesel power.

New for 2017 is a standard

eight-speed (up from six) automatic transmission on V6 models; the range starts from as little as $21,805 (Colorado 2WD extended) but I tested the V6 Canyon in 2016, so the focus of this review is on the diesel models.

The new engine is a 2.8 litre Duramax and with only 181 horsepower, the output seems a little unimpressive compared

to the V6 (305 horsepower . owever, this figure doesn’t tell the whole story. Maximum power is served up at only 3,400 r.p.m., compared to 6,800 r.p.m. for the V6, and offers an impressive 369 pound feet of torque at only 2,000 r.p.m. (37 per cent more than the V6 offers at 4,000 r.p.m.). This stronger lowend power delivery allows Canyon/Colorado diesel

to offer that class-leading towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds (10 per cent higher than the V6). The diesel engine option will cost you an upgrade price of between $4,500 and $6,500, depending on spec, and is only available on crew cab models in SLE, All Terrain, SLT and Denali spec on Canyon and LT, Z71 and ZR2 spec on Colorado. However,

you can still choose from 2WD or 4WD and short (five-foot two-inch) or long (six-foot two-inch) boxes. Budget on $4,000 extra for 4WD and $350 extra for the longer box.

The diesel upgrade price may seem a little steep, but as part of that price, you also get the trailering package, an integrated brake controller, exhaust brake and automatic locking rear differential.

The test model supplied by Murray Chevrolet GMC was the higher spec Canyon SLT crew cab long box 4WD. This one retailed at $46,905 and also featured the driver alert package (forward collision alert and lane departure warning), special bronze paint and block heater.

These new GM mid-size trucks remain very stylish with their scaled-down full-size truck looks and are very comfortable, with good ergonomics. continued on page 12

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12 RIVERS BANNER March 24, 2017

Canyon: Canada’s most efficient truck? continued from page 11

High quality materials are used in the interior.

There is a large centre console for storage, but the glovebox and door pockets are quite small for a vehicle of this size. I am a little surprised that a heated steering wheel is not available on this trim level (you’ll need the Denali) and that proximity entry and keyless entry is not available at all on Canyon/Colorado, when you get it as standard on a $25,000 Chevrolet Cruze! Rear legroom is class-leading and even better than you’ll find in a double cab full-size truck.

It is narrower, so if you’re trying to squeeze a third adult passenger between two child seats in the rear, it will be a tighter fit, but you can fold the rear seat backs down if you want to store items in the rear cabin. The box has standard lighting, is a decent length and very accessible, due to a standard EZ lift, locking tailgate and corner steps integrated into the rear bumper, but it is slightly less than four feet wide between the wheel housings, which may be an issue for some.

On the road it retains the SUV-like nimble handling and refinement that really impressed me with the V6 model tested last year and, although the ride is generally smooth, it can lose its composure a little on bigger bumps, but this is not atypical for an unladen truck. What you really want to know though, is what the new diesel engine is like. In one word, fantastic! It’s a little rumbly at tickover, but at highway speeds, extremely refined. The six-speed transmission, which disappointed a little in the V6, is better suited to this lower revving engine and as a result, despite the power deficit, the diesel pulls very strongly from low revs and the wave of torque helps the diesel version feel more responsive than the V6 and makes for a more relaxing drive.

Being the 4WD version, towing capacity is slightly reduced at 7,600 pounds,

but this is still best by far in its class and at least a match for all but the most powerful full-size pickup trucks, although note that due to a heavier motor, the maximum payload is marginally reduced to a still competitive 1,389 pounds compared to the V6 Canyon. If anything, the fuel economy on my mixed route exceeded my expectations. GM claims a combined figure of 10.4 litres per 100 kilometres and 8.4 litres highway for this particular truck. I averaged an impressive 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres for the whole test, with a best of 8.7 litres per 100 kilometres on a short stretch of highway.

As per GM’s gas-powered trucks, warranty is three years/60,000 kilometres bumper-to-bumper and five years/160,000 kilometres powertrain.

Servicing can be done via the oil life monitor if you’re doing big mileages, but GM recommends 8,000 kilometres, or 12 months if you’re a low mileage user. Owners currently still benefit from free oil changes for two years/48,000 kilometres on these vehicles. Due to higher temperatures and pressures in diesel engines, they produce more oxides of nitrogen, which are hazardous to health. To combat this, GM uses AdBlue, a urea-based diesel emissions fluid. This is added in the exhaust phase to reduce those oxides of nitrogen down to harmless gases. This can be topped up via a filler next to the fuel tank fill hole and the level checked via a monitor on the driver information centre. This should only really be required to be topped up at service time, but if the level does get too low, the truck will go into limp home mode, so (1,1) -1- 06 - FEb 26/16.indd 16-02-22 2:29 PM

DON CARTER

Canyon’s interior has quality materials.

it is important to monitor the level. The fluid is fairly inexpensive, harmless to handle and readily available.

Canyon SLE short box 2WD diesel starts at $39,860 with key features including 17-inch aluminum wheels, single-zone automatic climate control, cruise, backup camera, leather-trimmed steering wheel with tilt/telescope, XM radio, Onstar 4G with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, eight-inch colour touchscreen, box lighting, EZ lift, locking tailgate, projector headlights and fog lamps, electric rear window defogger, rear sliding window, remote start, auto-dimming rearview mirror, the aforementioned driver alert package and automatic 4WD on 4WD models. SLE All-Terrain is only available on 4WD models and for around $1,000 more, you gain a unique interior and wheels with all-terrain tires, body-colour bumpers, Z71 off-road suspension, transfer case shield, hill descent control, heated front seats and power front seats with power lumbar, although you do lose the driver alert package. For around $2,000 over SLE, SLT adds 18-inch polished aluminum wheels, leather, heated seats, chrome door handles and mirror caps and heated mirrors. Finally, top spec Denali trim (only available with 4WD) adds 20-inch machined aluminum wheels, perforated leather seats that are

SALES and

LEASING

204-838-2240 Kenton, MB

Photo by Ben Castle

both heated and ventilated, heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging, navigation, Bose premium audio with seven speakers, chrome assist steps, underrail LED box lighting and spray-in bedliner, but you’ll pay around $7,000 over SLT for all of these features. Colorado LT and Z71 mirror Canyon SLE and SLE All-Terrain specs quite closely and spec-forspec, you’ll save around $1,400 but will lose a few of the premium features.

Colorado ZR2 prices are yet to be announced, but it will be a very specialized off-road spec with no GMC equivalent. Of the

GMC models, I think SLE All-Terrain 4WD long box or SLT offer the best value, depending on what your preference is regarding looks and leather or cloth seating. However, for me, Colorado Z71 offers the best mix of features for a slightly lower price and personally, I also happen to prefer the styling of the Chevrolet.

So the GMC Canyon/ Chevrolet Colorado diesel gets a big thumbs up from me. It’s the most capable mid-size truck out there right now, by some margin, and the most fuel-efficient truck you can currently buy in Canada. With its 7,700-pound towing capacity and fully-boxed frame, it is also more than a match for all but the most powerful fullsize trucks. Although the diesel upgrade price may appear to be quite high, you do get a lot of extra kit for your money and if you take this into account,

Canyon/Colorado offers pretty good value and turns it from a good truck into a great one. Yes, its closest rival, the larger Ram 1500 Ecodiesel, does offer more power and capability, but spec-for-spec, you will pay on average $9,000 more, even after discounts for the Ecodiesel, and on average $5,000 more for a similarly-specced fullsized truck without a diesel engine. Is the diesel engine worth the price premium?

If you’re not doing high mileage, then perhaps not; after all $5,000 buys you a lot of gas, but if you’re piling commuter miles on a vehicle and you’re needing to tow fairly regularly, then this one vehicle fulfils the roles of both full-size truck capability and compact car low running costs and in my opinion, offers a more relaxing driving experience than the V6 in a very stylish, comfortable and manoeuvrable package.

s g n i v a S 2012 Ford Focus Titanium

Loaded with leather interior, power Moonroof, Navigation system.

$12,900

2014 GMC Terrain SLT AWD

2014 Kia Forte LX

Heated seats, Power Sunroof, nicely equipped.

$11,900

2013 Ford Fusion SE

Alloy wheels, Bluetooth, pwr Liftgate, heated leather seats.

Economical 4 cyl, Sport wheels, heated seats, rear park aid, and more

$21,900

$14,990

Highway 16 West, Neepawa 204-476-2391