Nov 27 15

RIVERS

BANNER November 27, 2015

ersary v i n Celebrating our 107th An

Gazette-Reporter Serving the Rivers, Rapid City and Oak River areas for 106 years

Volume 108, Issue 21

89¢ + tax

Addition opens

Photo by Sheila Runions

L/R: Suzan Ramsey holds one end of the ribbon while Greg Paddock, Penny Gilson and Gary Pomeroy each cut it to officially open the addition at Riverdale Health Centre; not pictured is Lynn Madden, who held the other end of the ribbon. In the background are staff and community members who attended the ceremony.

By Sheila Runions Banner Staff

I

n four short months Horizon Builders of Brandon was able to complete a 1,500 square-foot addition on the east side of Riverdale Health Centre for their tender price of $621,168. While the work was done by mid-October, it took a month to plan an official opening, held on Thursday, Nov. 19.

Area manager Greg Paddock welcomed everyone “to this tremendous space. Ten years ago this month we opened our [hip and knee] rehab; what a way to celebrate that anniversary!

We admit 100-150 people each year; we’ve had 1,400 patients in 10 years. On behalf of the staff and our patients, I would

like to thank all those involved in putting this together.” He then asked Penny Gilson to say a few words.

She is the chief executive officer of Prairie Mountain Health, the regional authority responsible for this facility. In addition to her own unscripted speech, she read a letter from Minister of Health, Sharon Blady, who wrote about the opportunity to “celebrate the completion of this wonderful addition. I am very pleased to recognize the community for its unwavering support of this project, as well as Rivers Health Action Committee (HAC) for providing almost 50 per cent of the costs. The

addition will greatly improve the functionality of Riverdale Health Centre and provide a more accommodating environment with improved outcomes for patients. Our government is very proud of our long commitment to providing equitable access to health care services.

In October 2005 renovations to the actue care area of Riverdale Health Centre were completed, creating 13 rehabilitation beds; the lab and X-ray unit were also upgraded. Our government is also proud to have contributed to other Riverdale improvements in 2000, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2008 and 2013. Congratulations on the grand opening of this new

addition.”

Gilson then “acknowledged the many years of work by community members. Day in and day out, we hear nothing but positive comments about the service here. Rivers HAC was very vocal of the needs here; I’d like to thank Rivers HAC and Riverdale Health Services District Foundation for the very sizeable donations to this space, and thanks to all who played a part in bringing this to fruition.”

Gary Pomeroy is chairman of both HAC and RHSD Foundation; he explained it was HAC that “proposed the addition for group dining, exercises and activities. Manitoba Health, Riv-

erdale Municipality, Riverdale District Health Auxiliary and the former RM of Blanshard were major contributors, but thanks to all our donors. Thanks also to Prairie Mountain Health’s project team and our current HAC executive, Suzan Ramsey, Ken Tait and Gord McFadden.”

In less than 10 minutes, the ribbon was cut and black forest cake was served to approximately 40 citizens and a number of staff. Community members from Cardale, Bradwardine, Rapid City and Oak River travelled to Rivers for the celebration, which was also witnessed by a few Riverdale Personal Care Home residents.

2 RIVERS BANNER November 27, 2015

Community calendar

Parading, practising and performing

Nov. 28: Craft and bake sale, Rivers United Church, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Nov. 28: St. Nicholas Tea, Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, Rivers, 2-3:30 p.m.

Nov. 28: Big buck night, Riverdale Community Centre, Rivers, 7 p.m.-1 a.m.

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

Dec. 5: Santa Claus parade, Rivers, 10 a.m.

Dec. 5: Seniors Christmas supper, Rapid City Legion Hall Dec. 6: Old fashioned Christmas, Rapid City Legion Hall, 12-7 p.m.

Dec. 6: Service of Lights, Rivers United Church, 3 p.m.

Dec. 7: Rivers Legion Ladies meeting, upper hall, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 9: Rivers and Area Game and Fish Association meeting, Lee’s Restaurant, Rivers, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 9: Riverdale Harvest meeting, Prairie Crocus Regional Library, Rivers, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 11: Christmas tea and bake sale, Riverdale Personal Care Home, Rivers, 1:30-3 p.m.

Dec. 11: It Started With a Child, Rapid City Dec. 12: Seniors Christmas supper, Rivers Legion Hall, 6 p.m.

Dec. 13: Bethlehemian Rhapsody, Rivers United Church, 11 a.m.

Dec. 13: Christmas banquet, Rivers Baptist Church, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 14: Rivers Legion meeting, upper hall, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 15: Diabetic clinic, Riverdale Health Centre, Rivers, 8 a.m.

Dec. 15: Christmas concert, Oak River School, 7 p.m.

Dec. 16: Rivers and Area Community Foundation annual meeting, Lee’s Restaurant, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 17: Bake sale, Prairie Crocus Regional Library, Rivers, 12-4 p.m.

Dec. 24: Christmas eve service, Riverdale Personal Care Home, Rivers, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 24: Christmas eve concert, Zion Church, Rivers, 7 p.m.

Jan. 26: Diabetic clinic, Riverdale Health Centre, Rivers, 8 a.m.

Jan. 29: Potluck and games, Rivers Civic Centre, 12 noon Feb. 7: High school hockey all-star game, Riverdale Community Centre, 3 p.m.

By Betty Froese Public Affairs More than 150 cadets from across Manitoba and southern Saskatchewan joined together at Canadian Forces Base Shilo the weekend of Nov. 13-15 for the annual MusiCon event. MusiCon is the abbreviation for music concentration and is a gathering of air, sea and army cadets to come together for musical instruction in both the military band and pipes and drums. This year’s participants came from 27 different corps and squadrons who travelled to the military base just east of Brandon. Lt. Brent Lowrie, band instructor for 2520 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, Brandon, was this year’s training co-ordinator for the pipes and drums program.

“Cadets are brought together for an intense weekend of instruction to learn, practise, play and rehearse together, eventually performing as a group. This is something many have not had the chance to do,” Lowrie says. “A lot of cadets are in locations where they don’t have enough players in their bands to experience a full band setting, so this gives them the op-

Photo submitted

L/R: Brody Davis, Sarah Hunter and Joseph Hunter, all of Riverdale Municipality and members of Brandon’s Sea Cadets, participated in MusiCon.

portunity to perform with cadets from all over the province and to experience a larger, broader band environment.”

MusiCon also allows cadets to mingle with peers involved in the other elements of army, sea and air cadet programs, and to perform shoulder to shoulder as a mass band together.

Cadets are between the ages of 12-18 and often have opportunities in their schools to learn and become fluent in an

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instrument. Many cadets who come to MusiCon are already actively involved in school, cadet or community band programs. This annual weekend provides extra instruction in a more concentrated form as youth are rotated through specialized instruction with their particular instrument and then come together as a mass band, divided into beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. However, there are also those who come out of curiosity.

“There are cadets here who have never touched an instrument before.

This is the first time some of them have been exposed to music instruction like this. Some have played with their school band for a only few years.

But also, there are cadets here who are quite experienced and are at the top of their proficiency level and are here as staff cadets in a supervisory position as well as instructing.”

Instructors are brought in from various places and walks of life to tutor in both military band and pipes and drums.

Some are cadet instructor cadre officers and work with cadets on a regular basis, some are civilians and are school band instructors and others are in the regular forces or are reserve non-commissioned members. Most are professional musicians in their day jobs

and are accomplished in their field of expertise in either of the two genres.

Lowrie explains, “Military band is made up of brass, reed and percussion — the standard military band you’d see in performance. Pipes and drums are bagpipes and snare drums, tenor drums and bass drums and are a bit different than military band drums.”

Lt. Lowrie has been playing bagpipes for 42 years, since he was nine years old, and has been instructing cadets on bagpipes for many years.

He has been involved in MusiCon and cadet summer camp instruction for four years and notes there have been some changes this year.

“Pipes and drums are now centralized at the Rocky Mountain Cadet Summer Training Centre, which is a half-hour northwest of Cochrane, Alberta. This is the first year where cadets from both B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Northwest Territories are all gathered in one location throughout the summer.”

This was the first time MusiConwas held at CFB Shilo and it was a great success, with perfect facilities for parading, practising and performing with this many youth.

Final performance was an in-house concert on Sunday where each band performed for their peers.

From our files

RIVERS BANNER November 27, 2015 3

105 years ago, 1910 Between 75-80 people attended an at-home meeting of Rivers’ Canadian Order of Forresters.

95 years ago, 1920 An operating whiskey still just outside town limits was discovered by revenue officers; the offender was fined $500.

85 years ago, 1930 Pews from the former Methodist Church here were sold and installed in the rebuilt Zion Church near Brandon.

75 years ago, 1940 CN is offering bargain fares — $3.60 for a return trip from Rivers to Winnipeg.

Christmas chocolates are now on sale in Rivers; a two-pound box is 49 cents.

65 years ago, Nov. 30, 1950 Rivers Women’s Institute hosted a meeting last week to discuss a permanent caretaker at Rivers Cemetery, another entrance into the grounds and analyzing the soil to see what could be successfully grown there; following the meeting the first ever cemetery board was formed. Betty Neal married Leonard Nesbitt on Nov. 23. Mr. and Mrs. A. Greene had a girl Nov. 26.

55 years ago, Nov. 24, 1960 Don Bates jumped into the icy waters of Rivers’ reservoir last Saturday to rescue five of his cattle that plunged through the thin ice which extended past their water hole; one animal drowned. Harvey Whelpton won reserve grand champion sow for the second consecutive year, at Toronto’s Royal Fair last week. Mr. and Mrs. Les Taylor had a boy Nov. 16; Mr. and Mrs. Keith Robins had a girl

Nov. 17; Rev. and Mrs. Fraser Muldrew had a boy Nov. 19.

45 years ago, Nov. 26, 1970 Margaret Frank was surprised the evening of Nov. 20 when past and present post office staff stopped at her home for an impromptu retirement party; she has worked at Rivers Post Office for 24 years. Occupancy at Riverdale Hospital from Jan.1-Nov. 1 has been 207 patients; last year’s number for the 10 months was 205; in October, seven babies were born and 24 operations performed.

Bradwardine Pool Elevator’s annual meeting on Nov. 18 was attended by 100 people who heard the facility handled 185,000 bushels of grain, 20,000 bushels more than last year. Mr. and Mrs. Jim Wood celebrated their 25th anniversary on Nov. 21; Mr. and Mrs. David Price celebrated their 50th anniversary on Nov. 22.

35 years ago, Nov. 26, 1980 Eighty people attended Bradwardine Pool Elevator’s annual meeting on Nov. 16 where it was learned a record 450,000 bushels of grain was handled. Yet, the elevator was forced to close in July and all grain was emptied because CPR abandoned the rail line there. The elevator and annex are for sale and to date, tenders have been received from area farmers who will agree to buy the buildings only if they can gain property title from CP.

The agent residence, built five years ago, was bought

by Brian Burt and moved to the Lothair district; Bradwardine Pool Association will remain effective until all assets have been liquidated. Yellow Quill Golf Club just west of Rivers has received a $9,425 Sports Facilities grant; it will be used for upgrades.

Mr. and Mrs. Jack Morcom celebrated their 50th anniversary on Nov. 22. Kim Bayes of Rapid City won a CKLQ Radio contest, so she and husband Doug are now planning their allexpenses paid, plus $500 spending money, trip for four to Disneyworld. Mr. and Mrs. John Jensen were married on Nov. 15; Patti Ringland married David Robinson on Nov. 22. At its awards night on Nov. 14 Rapid City Legion presented a 25-year pin to Lorne McCallum, 30year pins to Charlie and Irvine Christie, 35-year pins to Art, Cecil and Levi Bayes, John Fearnley, Dick and Elwin English, Stan Haslen, Jack Kemp, Bill St. John, Bud Trott, Del Colley, George and Ollie McLean and Lloyd Miller, an Order of the Crossed Bloom to Ollie Eckberg.

25 years ago, Nov. 28, 1990 At its awards night on Nov. 16 Rapid City Legion presented 30-year pins to Cecil Jackson, Bruce Wright, Gerry Kemp, 35year pin to Lorne McCallum, 40-year pin to Charlie Christie, 45-year pins to Art, Cecil and Levi Bayes,

19th annual

Trophy Buck Night Saturday, Nov. 28 7 p.m.-midnight Riverdale Community Centre $5 admission (12-and-under free) $10 head entry fee One entry per person; entries close at 8 p.m. (scoring begins at 5:30 p.m.) Must be in attendance to enter head. All entries eligible for a Savage Model 93, 17 HMR combo draw, to be made at 8 p.m. sharp.

TROPHIES: typical and non-typical, members and non-members; muzzle loader typical/non-typical, members and non-members; junior (12-17 years), members and non-members; archery members and non-members; female members and non-members.

TWO special card draws for a Savage Model III 7mm combo AND a Savage Axis 22-250 camo with scope (Barska Hunt Master 3-9x40) FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: 204-328-7813 or 204-729-7203.

John Fearnley, George and Ollie McLean, Lloyd Miller, Jack Kemp, Dick and Elwin English and Bill St. John; the auxiliary presented a 30-year pin to Grace Terry-Fearnley and a 40-year pin to Kay Sample. Mr. and Mrs. Howard Williams celebrated their 45th anniversary on Nov. 24. Mr. and Mrs. Ross Shaw had a boy Nov. 8.

15 years ago, Nov. 25, 2000 Nov. 23 was the last day of business at Oak River’s Bank of Montreal branch; it will become Vanguard Credit Union, which will have its first business day on Nov. 28. Justin Pad-

dock, Jason Foster, Justin Kent and Brad Wallis were the first rink in years from Rivers Collegiate to enter the Westman High School bonspiel Nov. 18 and 19; they are the first rink to ever bring home the trophy. Kristy Bridgeman of Moline district has been appointed to the Wrangler High School Rodeo allstar team; she received an assortment of clothing and a certificate. On Nov. 23 Amanda Kimpinski of Roblin was presented a Life saving Award from Manitoba’s lieutenant governor; she won it for saving her uncle from drowning in

Lake Wahtopanah on Aug. 6, 1998. She was then 12, and pulled her 200-pound uncle who had gone down three times in the water, into the boat. He fell in when he tried to save his four-year-old son Curtis, who had fallen in when a wave hit the boat.

5 years ago, Nov. 26, 2010 A 2008 Rivers Collegiate graduate, Jeremy Krahn, is a third-year student at St. Olaf College in Minnesota. Last March he was part of the 182-piece orchestra (one of two pianists) which performed at Minneapolis’ Concert Hall and now (Dec. 2-5) he will join 500 students in five different choirs, singing bass for a series of Christmas concerts.

15114gm7

Rivers Banner Perspective

4

Best time to start

Tundra

by Chad Carpenter

T

A

Starving the dogs

he Winnipeg Free Press reported on Tuesday morning about some of the proceedings at the Association of Manitoba Municipalities. They reported that Inter-governmental Affairs Minister Drew Caldwell, “announced a federally backed commitment to invest $14 million over five years to develop recreation facilities in rural municipalities, as well as plans to create a new community airports network program.

AMM president Chris Goertzen, however, called on the NDP government to address municipal infrastructure deficit and create new "long-term, predicable" sources of revenue for municipalities.

"The amount of money municipalities currently receive through property taxes, federal and provincial taxes is simply not sustainable to overcome (infrastructure) challenges," he said. Goertzen suggests a one per cent share of the PST and a PST rebate for municipalities would help close the gap.”

After observing governments in action (or should I say inaction) for over 40 years, I am still set back a little by how much is said and how little is done. A “new” fund for recreation facilities to be spread over five years and across dozens of municipalities would have to be a lot more than $14 million to be effective. It amounts to $2.8 million per year and less than $28,000 per year per municipality. Seeing as a relatively modest recreation facility like Neepawa’s Yellowhead Centre costs over $350,000 per year to run, one can see that $28,000 is a small amount of money. On the capital side, to replace the Yellowhead Centre would run in the range of $15-20 million so $28,000 a year isn’t likely to do much.

Municipal politicians are much better rooted in reality. Note that the AMM president Chris

NOVEMBER 27, 2015

RIGHT IN THE CENTRE

Ken Waddell Goertzen, said they want long term, predictable sources of revenue, including one per cent of the PST and a rebate on PST paid by the municipalities.

Few will recall that I called for predictable municipal funding on many occasions over the past ten years. It should be per capita, per annum and in perpetuity or at least long term. A very simple approach. The province, like their federal counterparts, allocate way too little money to the most important level of government that we have, municipalities. They throw out little packages of money and make the municipalities compete and scramble with each other to get a morsel. This system always creates winners and losers and the higher levels of government get to choose the winners and losers. If governments, 50 years ago, had adopted a per capita, per annum, in perpetuity method of fairly and equally dividing funds to municipalities, we would have a much different landscape than we do today. Fewer towns would have died. All towns and municipalities would have been able to predict and plan their capital programs, knowing that dependable provincial and federal funding was coming. Untold thousands of hours of worrying and meeting and filling out forms could have been invested in constructive and relatively easy planning.

If the annual grants had been predictable and dependable, the municipalities could have all benefited from steady growth.

A person wouldn’t think of feeding their children by throwing out a box of cereal and letting them fight over it. Sure, there might be enough for one or two meals but when they throw out the cereal box only once a year, it doesn’t work. As we all know, many towns have died and many are teetering on the brink of death. There are only about 20 viable, full service communities left in Manitoba. That number is dwindling. Want examples?

An expectant mother can only have a baby in two hospitals in south-western Manitoba now, namely Brandon and Neepawa.

How many ERs are still open?

How many schools are left? How many high schools?

The federal and provincial governments, over the past 50 years, have treated communities like starving dogs. Worse than starving dogs, because it’s legal to starve communities. It’s illegal to starve dogs.

AMM had neither the courage nor the imagination to fight the province on amalgamation. They also didn’t have the foresight to encourage amalgamation long ago where and when it should have happened. Perhaps this time around the AMM will take a stand. They have no actual authority because municipalities are formed and function at the will of the province, actually the minister. However, maybe, with a provincial election coming up, the AMM can shape policies so as to get what the municipalities need. Let’s hope so.

s rural communities look towards their futures, it’s clear that for many towns, the status quo hasn’t worked to keep communities vibrant and relevant to their citizens’ needs. No town is an island and every community will be impacted by factors beyond its control. For any community looking to ensure its economic viability, diversification is the key.

MY Whether PERSPECTIVE we are talking about agriculture, manufacturing, retail or resources, ate all sectors acKman tKinson are subject to business cycles, good years and bad years. In order to grow and prosper long-term, communities should be reliant on more than one cycle.

For rural communities, this is probably more important than it was in the past. Twenty years ago, most farmers were diversified, they had some livestock and grew some grains.

These days, most are running specialized operations– the investments in machinery, grain storage, barns, corrals, trucks, livestock and land has necessitated this specialization. This means that at the farm level, there is less diversification, which makes it all the more important for local economies to be diversified.

You don’t have to look far to see towns decimated by economic cycles. This is why we need to make strengthening our local economies a priority during a time of relative prosperity.

There are two recently announced provincial programs that might help rural Manitoba communities expand their economies, if they have the vision.

On Nov. 20, the province announced Partner 4 Growth, a $400,000 program that provides funding to pursue rural economic development opportunities. The program is in its third year and aims to fund projects based on regional strategic advantages. In the past, it has funded training opportunities for First Nations, a feasibility study to bring broadband internet to a town, the development of a regional tourism strategy and the co-ordination of a regional survey to determine economic opportunities. The grants fall into two categories: up to $10,000 to strengthen or diversify development projects or undertake feasibility studies and up to $25,000 to complete a project. The province will provide half of the funding and projects must be regionally focused and involve more than one local government.

The other project, announced Nov. 23, is a Manitoba tourism summit, to be held in Winnipeg this January.

Province-wide, tourism generates $1.5 billion in revenue, $250 million in tax revenue and supports 24,500 jobs. The province also announced a sustainable tourism funding model, in which four per cent of the province’s tourism tax revenue would fund increased marketing of Manitoba as a tourism destination.

Hopefully, this is the start of something. Right now, there’s a lot of positive buzz about Manitoba and this month, National Geographic Traveler named Winnipeg as one of the top 20 trips of 2016. There’s lots of momentum that smaller communities can build on. After all, every community has a unique local history and if groups work together, they might be able to create truly unique attractions.

Most people recognize the perils of being overly reliant on one industry. The problem is that diversification takes work. By definition, it requires moving beyond a comfort zone, beyond what a community knows. It’s easy to keep serving existing customers and existing industries. Pursuing new opportunities requires looking outwards to see what needs aren’t being met. There will likely be missteps and the returns will take time to see, but we need to get serious about our future. The best time to start is now.

K J

-a

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

NOVEMBER 27, 2015

RIVERS BANNER 5

Lessons we must never forget—the finale Thanks to the youth

I

n the fall of 1980, Ronald Reagan was elected President of the United States. He served two terms—the maximum number allowed by the US Constitution.

Reagan’s election signalled a new era in relations between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR).

He had revealed his vision during the campaign. First, he would rearm America’s military; making it the strongest in the world.

Then he would negotiate with the Soviets from a position of strength and demand that they agree to a mutual reduction in nuclear weapons, with the ultimate goal being to get rid of them completely.

He also promised the American people that an America under his leadership would never send its military personnel to war and then refuse to let them win that war. That, he argued, is what happened in Viet Nam and Reagan vowed that it must never happen again. If we are going to war, he argued, we must be in it to win it.

FAITHFULLY YOURS neil stRohschein Anything less is an insult to those we send into battle.

This was proven to be true in the three wars of the past century in which Canadians have fought.

In World War I, 425,000 Canadians went overseas to fight in the European theatre. We knew who the enemy was. We knew what we wanted to achieve. And we did not stop fighting until the enemy had surrendered and the armistice had been signed. We were in it to win it.

Twenty years later during WWII, our armed forces were 1.1 million people strong—that was 10 per cent of our country’s population. Military personnel served in Europe, Italy, North Africa and in the defense of Hong Kong.

Again, we knew who the enemy was and what we wanted to achieve. We did

not stop fighting until the enemy surrendered. We were in it to win it.

But after that, the strategy changed. In Korea, we fought to a stalemate— finally settling on the 38th parallel as the border between South and North Korea. Today, 60 years later, an uneasy peace still exists between the two Koreas; and that is not about to change any time soon.

A lot has changed in the years since Korea.

Canadians are far less trusting than we were during WWI and WWII. We no longer believe everything our governments tell us.

We want our leaders to be honest with us—no hiding behind a screen of national security.

If we are going to deploy people and equipment to a war zone, we want to know where they are going,

why they are going, what they hope to achieve and how we will know when they have completed their assignments. Then, once these goals have been set, we want our politicians to choose the best people to command the operation, give them the best equipment available and then get out of the way and let them complete their missions so we can bring them home.

Canadians are not afraid to go to war if the cause is just. We fully support the members of our armed forces. We know that whenever they go on assignment, whether in active combat, peacekeeping, protecting our borders or fighting floods in Manitoba, they are in it to win it.

Our soldiers take great pride in doing their jobs and doing them well. They deserve our support while they are on assignment and our respect once they return home. Anything less is an insult to them and a huge blot on the reputation of our country.

I really don’t want to be younger

I

really don’t want to be younger, I just want the energy of a younger person! It was the kind of day that called for stamina and enthusiasm. A poor night’s sleep didn’t help. Every hour, on the hour, I opened my weary, bleary eyes and noted the digital clock’s progress to morning.

It was one of the nights that I slept (figuratively!) in the nurses’ residence. The rooms are clean and quiet, almost Spartan, and quite comfortable. I have slept there several times this fall, but never this poorly.

The day of classes was interesting and energizing.

I had no trouble staying awake and contributed to discussions. Even the drive home was okay. No sleet, no snow, dry highway conditions, light traffic.

All good.

It was when I got home

HOMEBODIES Rita FRiesen that my energy flagged.

Seriously. And I had projects that needed to be completed. This day. A pick up supper of mac and cheese and pork and beans – I know – not a nutritious or well balanced meal, except that it was followed by a modest dish of ice cream.

I don’t eat like that often, just often enough.

The agenda called for a tidying of the kitchen, and that grew like Topsey.

Removed some items from a shelf, only to realize the shelf needed washing.

Started sorting doubles and near empties. Moved up a shelf and down a shelf,

Observation

By Addy Oberlin

L

ast week the world was shocked by a disaster which was caused by men. People are mourning the loss of loved ones. Men and women in the prime of their life were executed. There is confusion and fear.

When I read my Bible the other day I noticed that in the Old Testament there were many wars and whole nations were wiped out because of disobedience to God.

realized that if I was going to get the floor mopped, it was time to shift tasks.

Dogs, wet snow and light coloured floors are not a good combination. My mutts come inside looking like they are wearing snow pants and the wet clumps litter the floor.

Puddles accompanied by wet dog smell. Wait till it gets really cold and then that’s not a problem, just this wet sticky snow balls up. Swabbed the decks, washed the boot racks and took the dogs out for one last time. Almost a time for a repeat, but the floor can wait. At least another day!

Truly I do not wish to be younger. But, there is always a but, I remember when a day’s work could include several loads of laundry, a batch of buns and trio of pies baking while the bun dough rose.

Accompanying these minor achievements were a batch of school lunches, a planned ‘good for the family’ supper, and if necessary, a meal in the field.

If the season was summer, the day’s work could also include gardening and outside work. Just recalling that tires me out. No, I don’t want to be young, or younger. I don’t want to work that steadily again. Walking the dogs, maintaining the home, time with friends and a little honest work will suffice. Add a little reading, a little studying and a little writing. Quite enough, I keep telling myself!

They worshiped idols, sometimes even in secret places.

However God knew all these things and saw all of it, because there is no place to hide from God. Are we seeing a repeat or are we getting very close to the coming again of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ?

The Bible tells us also that, “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:6) at the end times. He is coming back. It tells us in James 5:8, “Be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near.”

Are we ready for Jesus' coming?

As a volunteer of Riverdale Harvest, I thank all the generous people of Rivers and area for the great contribution of food items at Halloween. Over 900 pounds was collected, which is remarkable! Also a huge thank-you to the collegiate staff and students, who organized the food drive, collected the food, weighed it all and delivered all of the items to the food bank.

It is wonderful to see young people who give their time and energy to help those in need. We don’t hear often enough about all the good deeds our youth do, so congratulations, and keep up the good work!

Liliane Dupuis Rivers

But the greatest of these is love My husband Daniel and I were married a year and a half ago. Shortly after that we found out I was pregnant, not in our plans, but definitely in God's plan, and we wouldn't change it for the world. Our son Sebastian Jax is our whole world, we wake up and his smiling face is there, we dry his tears, make him giggle and continually watch him learn and grow! Everything is a new experience for both Daniel and I as well as Sebastian.

We've never been parents before, but while I was pregnant we heard, on more than one occasion, "Oh, that baby will come and she won't even be interested in you anymore Daniel!", or, "The baby will come and you won't have time to breath let alone ask about your husband’s day or care what he did at all!".

We always made a point of politely laughing when hearing comments like these, often laced with bitterness from the people delivering them, but deep down they bothered us. They bothered me, there was a fear beginning to grow that my new relationship would wither and die before it ever had a chance to bloom and come to its full potential.

So, I began to pray, and talk to my mother, my best friend, asking if this is true. Could true love leave as quickly as it came? Could it shrivel up and turn to dust, what seemed to be, moments after it came to life? No, this couldn't be true. The movies always say that true love is everlasting, ever forgiving, and a picture of perfection! Nobody ever mentioned hard work, fights or the spark being lost. Well, let me tell all of you who was sucked in as a child, adolescent, and even an adult.

The movies lie! Crazy thought, I know. That hollywood would not tell the truth about the one thing that every single human being on the planet craves.

The truth is, relationships are hard work. Sure, you meet someone, your eyes meet across the room and that pit in your stomach explodes into butterflies that can hardly be contained. Your skin is hot and you want to run out of the room and run to this stranger all at the same time. Yes, this can happen, it will happen. But that chemistry will tame itself, and once it has, whats left? Someone you care about dearly, whom you wish to have children with, to grow old with, laugh with, love with. But all of those things don't just happen, they are hard work and not always romantic.

To those who fell for the stories that don't tell the story after the fall.. Love is a choice, you wake up and choose to love that person beside you, even if they've made you angry the night before. You will fight, argue and disagree, you will cry and get hurt. But at the end of the day, if you work hard, if you take time for each other and work on your relationship, fight through the hard times; pray together and alone you will make it.

Since having Sebastian, the times where we are alone, or date nights have become far and few between, but when they come around, when we get the chance to be just the two of us, we make it count. Act like kids again, laugh together, talk to one another, hold hands and be all gooey and romantic!

But love is the greatest of these. God spoke these words and they are no less true now as they were when he walked the earth. Wait on God, he will bring the right person into your life at the right time and if you work hard, and choose love, you will be very happy for as long as you both shall live!

Tara Kauenhofen is a young mom who lives in Brandon with her husband Dan and baby son Sebastian.

6 RIVERS BANNER November 27, 2015

New Mazda 3 is both stylish and fun to drive

By Ben Castle Mazda 3, along with Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla tested in September and October, comprise three out of the four bestselling compacts in Canada. In its first year (2014), the third generation Mazda 3 found more than 40,000 Canadian homes; that puts it amongst the 10 bestselling vehicles in Canada.

So what does Mazda 3 offer over its main rivals?

The test car, supplied by Forman Mazda, was the mid-range 2015 GS Sport (hatchback) model with six-speed automatic transmission and the convenience package — heated door mirrors, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, heated front seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel. It features a two-litre 16-valve engine with 155 horsepower and 150 pound feet of torque.

The fuel economy claim of 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres (highway) for both automatic and manual transmissions is up to 30 per cent more efficient than the previous generation.

During my test I failed to replicate this figure, but I was doing mainly urban driving.

Mazda has chosen to increase the efficiency of its latest 3 with more efficient engines featuring Skyactiv-G technology and a new six-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The engines have an above-average compression ratio, which means they use less fuel and have more power for their size. The body also uses ultra-high-tensile steel in key areas, which means the structure is stiffer, stronger, lighter and safer.

The two-litre engine has more power and torque than its key rivals and this is noticeable, as it has more urge at low revs. The transmission is very responsive but keeps the revs down on the highway and the engine is still smooth and refined at high revs when used with the manual override. What really impressed me about this car was the excellent ride and handling. Thanks in part to its relatively long wheelbase and rear multi-

link suspension, Mazda 3 has one of the smoothest rides I have experienced in any car at any price, and manages to combine the lightness and agility of a Civic at low speed, with the high speed stability of a Corolla. The brakes are powerful and confidenceinspiring and despite the weather being atrocious for the 24 hours that I had the car, the ABS or stability control never had to intervene once.

Mazda must have one of the best-looking ranges of vehicles at the moment and the new Mazda 3 is no exception, being both sporty and cohesive from every angle. The hood is long for a compact car, which adds to the feeling that you are driving something a bit special. The interior is simple and stylish: this car only had three buttons on the dash (two for the threestage heated seats and one for the hazard lights), an analogue speedometer and a digital tachometer.

My only criticism is that

the heating and ventilation controls don’t feel quite as substantial and satisfying to use as in the Civic or Corolla. The glovebox is huge, although storage space in the centre console and door pockets is limited. Perched on top of the dashboard is a seven-inch colour touchscreen, which constitutes the infotainment system. All Mazda 3s with touchscreen are navigation-ready; on GX and GS models all you need is a $425 SD-card accessory available from the dealership and you’re good to go.

All aspects of Mazda’s warranty has unlimited mileage (the only manufacturer to offer this in Canada) — if you drive more than 20,000 kilometres per year, you are still covered for three years and the seven-year antiperforation warranty is also unlimited mileage too.

Thanks to the long wheelbase and the front seats’ backs being scalloped, rear legroom is

good. The rear seat is sculpted for two, but there is a small hump in the middle of the floor, so your middle rear seat passenger won’t be quite as comfortable as in its rivals. At 572 litres, the Sport model offers an impressive 55 per cent more capacity than its sedan competitors, but less capacity than any of its hatchback competitors. If you opt for the sedan model, trunk space is a Civic-competitive 350 litres but is slightly narrower and shallower, so not quite as practical.

Which one to buy?

There isn’t a bad choice really. The sedan-only G model offers fairly basic features (six-speed manual transmission, push button start, keyless entry, power door locks, windows and mirrors, adjustable steering wheel and the full suite of safety features) for $15,550 before taxes.

If you want automatic transmission, air, cruise, Bluetooth, backup camera and the touchscreen, pay an

extra $2,800 (GX model).

Next up, for an additional $1,500 ($19,850), the GS model has 16-inch aluminum wheels and the aforementioned convenience package as standard.

Finally, the $25,350 GT model has a more powerful 2.5-litre engine (184 horsepower and 185 pound feet of torque), 18-inch aluminum wheels, bixenon HID headlamps, fog lamps, standard navigation, paddle shifters and a nine-speaker surroundsound Bose audio system; it is also available with leather upholstery ($2,100 extra). Whilst the G offers

excellent value and the GX has everything you really need, the GS spec with the now-standard convenience package is the standout of the range for value and actually works out cheaper for 2016 than 2015!

Despite having to give second-best in terms of space and practicality, this car is class-leading in terms of value, looks, driving, efficiency, refinement, warranty and features and is also available in two stylish bodystyles. Next year’s Honda Civic and Chevrolet Cruze need to be very good, as we now have a new compact benchmark!

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Terrific trivia night RIVERS BANNER

November 27, 2015 7

By Lorrie Dyer

Rivers United Church held its first open trivia night on Friday Nov. 20, with 10 teams of eight people participating. Team names included Slapsticks, Benchwarmers, Loaves and Fishers, The Dark Horse, Prairie Chicks and 2 Roosters, Harrow House of Knowledge, Nerd Herd, East End Elves, Miscellaneous and Wise Quackers.

Costumes, signs, noise makers and props added to the competitive excitement. After 10 rounds of questions ranging from Local Yokels to Cooking Terms and Spellin Werds to Lost Lyrics, all teams’ scores were very close and in contention for the top score. Even after the 30-point bonus question, Harrow House of Knowledge and Loaves and Fishers remained tied.

With the answer to the tie-breaker question being “adamantium,” Harrow House of Knowledge was crowned the winner. Prairie Chicks and 2 Roosters, who were in second place until the tie was broken, was chosen as having the most team spirit. Wise Quackers were awarded the “Better Luck Next Time” trophy. Barrels of Monkeys were presented to 10-year-old Ben for being the youngest participant and to Doreen Bate for being the participant with the most experience. Dave Falkevitch was the lucky winner of $57 for being the last person standing in the 50/50 game. Hot appetizers, cold drinks, coffee, Suzan Ramsey’s famous chocolate chip cookies and Donna Falkevitch’s fabulous nuts and bolts were offered for sale and grabbed up very quickly!

Due to the overwhelming success of the evening, it is suggested that you study up, get your teams and themes organized as Trivia Night II could be held again sometime in the not too distant future!

In other church news, many people supported Ten Thousand Villages on Nov. 22. The sale of handmade gifts, coffee and chocolate will help

Harrow House of Knowledge won the first-place trophy and a box of Smarties for team members L/R: Gord and Michelle McFadden, John and Mayvis MacLellan, Mike and Stacey Stott, Cherri and Ryan Whelpton.

Photos by Danielle Laferriere

Wise Quackers won the better luck trophy and a snack-sized Snickers for team members L/R: Sheila Smith, Myles Wotton, Jill and Cam White, Kendra Walker, Lori Kiesman, Ted Smith and Travis Walker.

artisans and farmers in underprivileged countries. As well on Nov. 22, our ever-popular Advent decorating evening was held. It was wonderful to witness the excitement of so many young children and families making crafts, decorating the sanctuary, enjoying the delicious potluck supper and singing their favourite Christmas carols. Kudos to Ashley Wood for co-ordinating the event and Shelley Foster and Becky Stewart who worked their magic with the children’s crafts.

If you see Art Hartle, Don McFadden or Rev. Glenna this week, please wish them a Happy Birthday. Art Hartle turns an amazing 98 years young, Don is somewhere in the neighbourhood of a decade younger than Art and Glenna boasts that she is the same age as Hilary Rodham Clinton — we are all going to Google that,

aren’t we!

On Nov. 29 dedication of a Dorothy Hart plaque will be made in recognition of the financial legacy given to the church. It will also be the first Sunday of Advent and lighting of the Advent wreath. With the annual meeting coming up in the new year, all committees are asked to have their budgets in to treasurer Connie van Dixhoorn by Nov. 29.

Rivers and Area Palliative Care Committee will be presenting a Service of Lights at Rivers United Church on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 3 p.m. This service is open to everyone and especially to those who wish to remember a loved one during the holiday season.

The UCW Christmas party is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 7 p.m.

Please mark your calendars for Sunday, Dec. 13 when the Sunday School presents Bethlehemian

Prairie Chicks and 2 Roosters won the team spirit trophy and a bag of microwave popcorn for team members L/R: Warren Smallwood, Sheila Runions, Maggie Smallwood, Stan Runions, Mary Mason, Liliane Dupuis. Missing: Doreen Bate and Adrienne Beaudin.

Rhapsody. It is sure to be a crowd pleaser and the children will want to not only bring their parents and caregivers, but grandparents, aunts, uncles, neighbours and friends. It is also White Gift Sunday and everyone is encour-

aged to bring unwrapped toys, mitts, toques and nonperishable food items for our local Christmas cheer.

Tara Bray and Suzanne Koop delighted us with two musical selections recently. Their Ricky Skaggs song put a smile on every-

one’s face and their medley of hymns warmed many hearts. On Christmas Eve, we will have the great pleasure of vocal solos by Hugh Russell, a man who grew up in our church and is a well-known opera star living in United States.

8 RIVERS BANNER November 27, 2015

Council clips Large “loo” for library Beef bits Riverdale Municipality, Nov. 3: Municipal policing was discussed; council is still waiting on cost comparisons for RCMP coverage vs. municipal. One lot has been sold on Kawiga in Chimo Resort and one in the Seventh Avenue subdivision. Engineer Glen Newton is to provide design plans for Rivers Cemetery. Councillor Dave Falkevitch will attend the annual senior citizens Christmas supper on Dec. 12 as council’s representative.

Cody Sedgwick was hired by Riverdale Community Centre to work on a part-time basis. The office requires re-networking and re-wiring for security and to accommodate additional work stations; council accepted the $6,092.72 estimate provided by my IT source in Brandon.

Council donated a framed print of Riverdale Municipality to the Legion Ladies Auxiliary penny raffle on Nov. 11.

RM of Oakview, Nov. 10: The Roads and Drainage Committee reported on the condition of Road 116 in Ward 2 which is closed due to excessive moisture and heavy truck travel. Additional gravel was placed on newly reconstructed roads in Wards 1 and 2. Culvert concerns in Wards 2 and 3 were discussed. A conditional use application by Kevin Kelso to provide for a trucking establishment in Rapid City was approved; council agreed to install an approach into the lot upon commencement of construction. Ian Witherspoon from Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) and ratepayers Vern Darroch and John Crowson attended to discuss DUC purchasing property in Oakview and a request for an exemption under the Farm Lands Ownership Act. Council questioned the delegate regarding possible weed concerns. Kaye Wolstenholme was appointed deputy reeve. An appreciation evening to thank all employees, LUDs of Oak River/Rapid City, Oak River and Rapid City volunteer fire departments and spouses/partners will be held at Rapid City Legion Hall on Dec. 12. Ratepayers who burn plastic culverts in municipal roads or approaches will be billed for the cost to replace/install a similar culvert.

Finances: O.P. Knox Enterprises will place insulation in the north door of the Oak River municipal shed for $450. Lots 1-20 and Lots 21-40, Block 31, Plan 28 Rapid City have been sold and the purchaser wishes to honour the agreement with the previous landowner; council authorized that an agreement be drafted and signed indicating the property be sold for $5,000 and the purchaser to reimburse Oakview for all expenses incurred for the road closing and registering of the plan.

School levies were paid to Public Schools Finance Board, $649,743.98, Park West, $114,255.47 and Rolling River, $1,484,037.48. The minister’s authorized statutory levy of $54,120 will be paid on Nov. 30. Newdale Hall Committee was paid its levy of $5,549.57. A used copy/print/scan/fax machine will be bought from Gold Business Solutions for $3,800, with a four-year performance guarantee on parts and service and with a service and toner agreement. The final payment for Rapid City’s local improvement debenture debt, being $8,044.30 was paid to the minister of finance; the minister was also paid $17,705.19 for Rapid City’s water pipeline and $12,161.36 for Oak River’s utility deficit.

Council accepted the following tenders: $155 and $50 for RM of Blanshard signs from Therese Shamray and Susan Thompson, respectively and $35 each for RM of Saskatchewan signs (two) from Linda Lawson. Accounts of $213,244.30 and unpaid invoices of $82,605.52 were passed for payment. The next meeting is Dec. 8 at 9 a.m.

Zion Church 865 Third Avenue, Rivers

Pastor Nathan Klassen: 204-412-0245 Sunday school and morning service at 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday evening Bible study from 7:30-9 p.m.

By Sherri Dziver Librarian

By Anja VandeLangemheen Club reporter

Prairie Crocus Regional Library is pleased to announce that we will soon have a wheelchair accessible washroom!The government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund has approved a grant for our new washroom.

The focus of this fund is “to facilitate accessibility in communities across Canada through renovation, retrofit and/or construction of facilities where programs and/or services are offered to people with disabilities.” Further, the fund gives consideration to recreational spaces for children with disabilities, veterans with disabilities and seniors with disabilities as its priority.

The library board recognized the need for an accessible washroom several years ago and has been fundraising ever since. With the approved grant from the government of Canada, and the funds the library has accumulated in the past few years, the washroom will be constructed in the spring of 2016.

The board is pleased to be working with Ramsay Construction to make this a reality. The washroom will be located behind the librarian’s desk.

The board is grateful for support from the community in completing the application for the grant. We would like to extend appreciation to Riverdale Municipality, Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 75, Rivers/Rapid City Senior Services Incorporated, Riverdale Health Centre’s Rehabilitation Unit, Rolling Dale Enterprises and Rivers Elementary School for the advice and letters supporting this project.

The library will also need the support of the community during the construction phase! Every effort will be made to make this process as short and dust-free as possible; watch for updates in the spring.

Rapid City 4-H Beef Club had its reorganization meeting on Nov. 10 when the club elected a new council. Wyatt Inglis is president, Thijs VandeLangemheen is vice-president, Brooklyn Hedley is secretary, James Reid is treasurer, and I, Anja VandeLangemheen, will be reporter for the year. Other members include Drew Horner, Gavin Reid, Mona VandeLangemheen and Sierra Inglis.

We welcome new members Justin McKee and Zane Finlay.

This year the club will be using new workbooks for the projects, and the members are all excited for the change. The club has decided to hold its first weigh day on Dec. 5, so we are hoping for nice weather. The weigh day will be followed by a potluck lunch and the monthly meeting at the same time.

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RIVERSB ANNERN ovember27,20159

Photo by Sheila Runions

Back row L/R: Harvey Wood, Aaron Tycoles, Sherri Dziver, Maxine Shamray, Marg Burt. Front row L/R: April Sprenger, Angela Roberts, Crystal Bourdin with daughter Nova, Hannah and April Toews.

Foundation funds community initiatives

By Sheila Runions Banner Staff

A

sixth annual grant evening was held on Wednesday, Nov. 18 in the curling club viewing lounge at Riverdale Community Centre. The evening is hosted by Rivers & Area Community Foundation (RACF) which invites representatives of each group to the ceremony to accept their cheque. RACF president Donna Morken told the gathering the board received applications for $101,122 this year; they gave away more than $10,000.

RACF was formed when the Bernard and Iola Goekoop estate left more than $400,000 to the town’s foundation which was subsequently formed in very short order; RACF’s assets are now $422,000. Since that time, $79,464.09 has been given in the form of 50 grants to 28 different organizations. This year’s donations saw more duplicate recipients — six of the eight groups have received support in previous years. RACF provides grants from the interest earned on their investment and while they support seven categories, some groups have overlapping characteristics. The six-year breakdown totals more than 100 per cent, but this is where RACF money has gone: 39 per cent to recreation, 18 per cent to environment, 13 per cent to health, 12 per cent to social, six per cent each to education, heritage and arts.

Razzamatazz Dance Club has 89 dancers in this, its 27th year, making it difficult to recycle costumes for the larger classes; they received $2,000 for the costume department. Riverdale Daycare Committee also received $2,000 which, as they said last year, will be used for furnishings in the new 32-spot facility they hope to have operational in Rivers Collegiate in the next 12 months.

Rivers Comets received $1,500 toward ball diamond upgrades; the adult team which formed this spring hopes to play ball in Rivers by July 1, rather than playing all league games in Brandon. Rivers Curling Club was given $1,175 for new bumper pads between their four sheets of ice, and a coat rack which is needed in the club.

Clack Family Heritage Museum accepted $1,000 which will be used to replace flooring in some of the many buildings on the site, which is seven miles northwest of Rivers. Prairie Crocus Regional Library also received $1,000 which will be used for a wheelchair-accessible bathroom; construction of the same will begin in spring.

Rivers Collegiate’s Wetlands Centre of Excellence was once again supported, this time with $1,000, which is earmarked for the outdoor classroom, as it was last year.

Rivers Elementary School received its full request of $849.56 which is the final cost to finish its wooden train play structure.

Morken is not only RACF president but also chairperson of Rivers Train Station Restoration Project; she also took great pleasure in announcing that on Nov. 10, RACF “received word we would get $50,000 from the Burns Family Fund in Winnipeg, which we will give to the train station for roof repairs. We are very excited that someday RACF will have a home in the station; we hope to have roof repairs done next spring.”

Readers may recall that the Nov. 13 issue of Rivers Banner had a full page ad from RACF encouraging people to donate during the Endow Manitoba 24-hour challenge in which funds received on Nov. 14 were

matched by Endow Manitoba. That ad also promoted an offer by Thomas Sill Foundation to match all donations received until Sept. 16, 2016 as 50-cent dollars; therefore, the $50,000 Burns donation now becomes $75,000 for the train committee.

Canada’s first community foundation was formed in Winnipeg and while Manitoba is home to only four per cent of the nation’s population, the province boasts 25 per cent of all foundations in Canada. Rivers is one of the 191 foundations which responded to the 2011 challenge by Gov. Gen. David Johnston to be a smart and caring nation which will develop to its fullest potential.

“Smart and Caring” is an effort by Canada’s community foundations to pursue two significant goals by Canada’s 150th birthday (2017): to reach more Canadians so each person is served by a foundation in 2017, and to establish Smart and Caring Funds unique to each community, but to share the same vision — to build a nation-wide legacy to serve generations for years to come.

Rivers Baptist Church 447 Edward Street

Phone 204-328-7882

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

Youth (Gr. 5-10) — 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 and Area Volunteer Palliative Care Committee extends an invitation to all to attend our

Service of Lights ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

December 16, 2015

6:30 p.m. LEE’S RESTAURANT

All are welcome to attend.

Sunday, Dec. 6 at 3 p.m. at Rivers United Church The service is being held to remember and reflect on the lives of people who have died in the past year or so. For more information, call Joan Thomson at 204-328-7411 or Esther Krahn at 204-328-7189.

10

RIVERS BANNER November 27, 2015

Seniors plan for Christmas

By Myrtle Wooldridge Secretary

Stay in school

By Jessie Bell

Rivers 50+ Club met on Nov. 19 with 19 members present. Guest speaker was Murray Smith from Keystone Hearing Aid Centre, Brandon; he gave an informative presentation.

Hugh Depencier has resigned as games chairperson but he will stay on to help with games. A Westman Games meeting in Shoal Lake on Nov. 30 will be attended by our president, Adrienne Beaudin, Hugh and Ken Young. Finishing of the floor curling surface will be delayed until a later date. On Nov. 13 we had a very enjoyable potluck luncheon and afternoon of games, attended by 22 members; another lunch and games will be held Jan. 29.

On Oct. 21 we turned over $2,000 to Rivers Health Action Committee, which was pledged several years ago in regards to the hospital renovation project.

We planned a work bee for Nov. 24 to decorate the clubroom for Christmas. Three quotes were presented for our Christmas noon meal on Dec. 17; West Avenue Steakhouse and Lounge was $15.97, Shelley Mom’s Kitchen was $16 and The HoneyHouse Bakery and Café was $17. We accepted the Honey House quote because it was the preferred menu and we have used Shelley’s Mom for past two years. The meal will be followed by a concert; the concert committee consists of Percy Rosamond, Adrienne and Ken. A unanimous vote determined we would not rent the club room on Christmas day, as requested by a local family with young children involved. We are concerned about damage to our games equipment.

The overall goal of Rolling River School Division is to improve opportunities for all young people to fully develop academic, social and healthy life skills needed to succeed in their transition from high school to adulthood. Student support facilitators have become mentors to students in Grades 7-12 who don’t see the importance of school or who don’t feel good about how they are progressing in school. The program is meant to provide students with supports they need to experience success, stay in school and become more prepared for life after school.

Grade 9 students joined their parents (or other employers) at work on Nov. 4. This learning experience included veterinary clinics, repair shops, restaurants, health care facilities and retail departments. The hands-on experience was made available by parents, family members and community hosts. It helped to expand students’ knowledge for future careers.

Rivers Collegiate’s canteen has been listing health foods such as chicken and broccoli quiche, perogies, chicken caesar wraps, as menu choices.

Five students from the nutrition class prepare the food, with assistance from teacher Michelle Maxwell and Jaimee Waldner, educational assistant. The cost of the food, which they shop for, is offset by lunch sales.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY PROS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

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

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Phone 204-328-7540 204-566-2490

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STEVEN KROEKER

204-761-8792/204-571-9444

Professional Painting & Decorating

Jeannie Bos

204-573-1150 Rapid City, MB jeanniesinteriors@hotmail.com

Phone 204-727-0694 or 1-800-897-5694 www.brockiedonovan.com

ALEXANDER ELECTRIC 204-721-4320

FUNERAL DIRECTOR Dwayne Campbell ~ 204-764-2746

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

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ACCOUNTING SERVICE Certified Management Accountants

Hamiota: 71 Maple Ave. 204-764-2544 Brandon: 20-18th St., 204-727-5927 knightcm@mymts.net

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Funerals, Cremations, Receptions

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RIVERS BANNER

For all your electrical needs Serving Rivers and area since 1906.

Ph. 204-328-7435

Finishing, custom carpentry and renovations

204-867-2416/204-867-7558

Phone 204-727-8491 or 204-328-7540 (Thursdays, 2-5 p.m.) for appointments.

OPEN Tues., Wed. and Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon

Mini storage units for rent.

Actively serving Rivers and area on Wednesdays with competitive rates.

To book appointments, call Bryan at

Jack Cram, Lawyer

Stylist Heather Fast Stylist Wendy Harder Stylist/nail tech Melissa Roberds

Magnum Woodworks

Lakeside Septic Service

Hunt, Miller & Co. LLP

Hamiota’s

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

Do you have flyers? We distribute for only 8.5¢ each!

We also sell office supplies and rubber or self-inking stamps.

We do an assortment of print jobs, including posters, tickets, envelopes, letterhead, faxing and photocopying.

Call 204-328-7494 or visit 529 Second Ave.

RIVERS BANNER November 27, 2015 11

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PLACE YOUR AD BY:

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

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Help Wanted

FOODS Meat Cutter/Production Personnel HyLife Foods a division of the HyLife organization is engaged in the dressing and processing of hogs for both domestic and world markets.

To reach and sustain its position as a premier supplier of quality food products it strives to employ talented and motivated people who are capable of reaching the cutting edge of their discipline.

This position is based at the operations in the vibrant community of Neepawa, Manitoba which has a reputation for its beauty and high quality of life. Due to rapid growth we are looking for Meat Cutters/Production Personnel.

Responsibilities / Duties include but are not limited to: • Slaughter, eviscerate and mark hogs for further processing • Cut pork carcasses into primal cuts for further detailed specifications intended for commercial, industrial, institutional or wholesale use • To de-bone edible part and remove inedible organs or parts The successful candidate should possess the following qualifications: • Be able to work in a culturally diverse workplace • Have a good work ethic • Focus on treating people with dignity and respect • Appreciate a stable long term work environment • Experience as an Industrial Butcher or trimmer is required • Completion of secondary school may be required Current starting wage is $13.25/hour plus $1.00 per hour perfect attendance incentive!

We offer a comprehensive benefits package and competitive compensation based on experience and knowledge.

HyLife has been recognized as a Platinum Member of Canada’s Best-Managed Companies.

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

Please apply online at http://www.hylife.com/current-opportunities/ We thank all applicants, however, only those under consideration will be contacted.

Provincial classifieds ACCOMMODATIONS

Life Lease Suites , 55+, Virden Mb, two bedrooms, fully renovated, indoor garage, Beside Hospital one block from businesses.

For more info call John 204-851-1042

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

GET FREE VENDING MACHINES Can Earn $100,000+/yr. All CashLocations Provided.

Protected Territories.

Interest Free Financing.

Full Details at 1-8666 6 8 - 6 6 2 9 We b s i t e WWW.TCVEND.COM

CAREER TRAINING

HUGE DEMAND for Medical Transcriptionists! CanScribe is Canada’s top Medical Transcription training school.

Learn from home and work from home. Call today! 1.800.466.1535. www.canscribe.com info@canscribe.com

COMING EVENTS

BRANDON GUN & COLLECTIBLES SHOW. Sat. Dec 12, 10am to 5pm & Sun. Dec 13, 10am to 4pm.

Keystone Centre. BUY, SELL, TRADE. Call 204-725-4363

Thank You I wish to thank my friends and relatives for your cards, visits and gifts during my convalescence in hospital; it was greatly appreciated. We have a wonderful facility in our community, called Rivers Rehab; it is second to none! Beth English A heartfelt thanks for the well wishes, vists, cards, phone calls and flowers during my stay in Brandon General Hospital, especially to Glenna and my wonderful family, who came to be with me during my surgery. To Darrell and Didi: a big hug!

Love, Ruby/Mom.

The family of Carroll Kostesky would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attended the celebration of her life on November 15, 2015. A very special thank you to Dr. Anita Vermaak, as well as Drs. Nowasad and Dhaliwal, along with the special nursing staff at Riverdale Health Centre. Thank you to Rev. Glenna Beauchamp for her prayers and inspiration during our darkest hours. Thank you to the staff at CancerCare Manitoba, Brandon branch, and the staff at Brandon General Hospital. Thank you to our special friends: Ron and Bonnie, George and Brenda, Ed and Vianne, Ron and Sue, and Eleanor for all your support; thanks to Evan for playing the violin for Carroll in the hospital. Thank you to all who delivered food and flowers to our home. A very special thank you to Shirley Kamula, and sister and auntie Linda and her husband Dennis, along with their daughters Nikki and Dani; Erin, Jason, Alex and Jason, Stan and Marty for preparing the food and serving at the celebration of life. We were overwhelmed by all the love and support shown by everyone.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Need A Loan? Own Property? Have Bad Credit? We can help!

Call toll free 1 866 405 1228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

TRAVEL

SAVE 30% on our Greenland and Wild Labrador Voyage until December 18, 2015 See Labrador as it was meant to be seen - By Sea - Aboard the comfortable Ocean Endeavour. No extra charge for singles! Quote Community Newspapers!

CALL TOLL- FREE: 1-800-363-7566 or visit: www.adventurecanada.com. (TICO # 04001400).

Tender For sale by tender: NE 1/4 33-14-22, 130 cultivated acres, RM of Oakview. Visual inspection and all costs incurred are responsibility of the buyer. For further information contact Larry at 204-764-0039. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Tenders close Feb. 15, 2016. Submit tenders to Box 579, Hamiota, MB R0M 0T0.

Auction McSherry Auction Moving & Estate Plus Coins Sunday Nov 29th @ 10:00 am Stonewall, MB #12 Patterson Drive Yard, Tools, Antiques, Household, Always Lots of Exciting Items!

Featuring 200 Lots of Coins & Paper Money.

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

Obituary CARROLL KOSTESKY It is with extreme sadness and grief that the family of Carroll Susan Cecelia Kostesky announces her passing on November 12, 2015 after a short, but courageous struggle. Carroll leaves to share her memory her loving husband, partner and best friend, Don; four daughters, Leah (Brian) McAllindon of Oakville, Ontario, Darlene (Robin) Bullard of Toronto, Ontario, Kelly (Cory) Kostesky-Luhowy of Rossburn, Manitoba and Crystal (Jason) Kostesky of Rivers; grandchildren Kyle and Connor McAllindon, Avery Hofland-Bullard, Megan, Carson and Quinn Luhowy and Trista Gill; unofficially adopted daughter Tara Lavery of Winnipeg; brother Ron Clow (Gerry) of Ottawa; sisters Mary Fleming of North Bay, Ontario, Connie Arsenault of Summerside, Prince Edward Island and Elsie (Darrell) Trainor of Summerside. Carroll was predeceased by her parents, George and Florilda Clow, stepfather Eric Ballem, siblings Grant, Martha and Terry, brothers-in-law Terry Fleming and George Arsenault, parents-in-law Adolf and Helen Kostesky.

In their 42 years together, Carroll and Don lived and worked in numerous places in Canada: Vancouver, Atikokan, Rossburn, Beulah, Riverton and Graysville. Rivers was the place that was home for most of their lives together, where Carroll was employed at Riverdale Health Centre where she was the medical records technician. She was on the founding committee of Rivers and Area Palliative Care, she served as first vice-president of Rivers Legion and was a member of Rivers Ukrainian Society.

Carroll loved to travel. Her beloved Don and she travelled to Las Vegas on many occasions, San Francisco, Minneapolis, Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto, Niagara Falls, Halifax, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Calgary and numerous other locations. After Carroll retired in 2004, Yuma, Arizona became Carroll’s favourite place to spend her winters. She loved to golf, dance and socialize with the many friends she and Don had in Yuma and Rivers. She will always be remembered for her bubbly spirit and her love of life.

Her family would appreciate expressions of sympathy be made in the form of donations to Rivers and Area Palliative Care; please make cheques payable to Prairie Mountain Health and mail to Rivers and Area Palliative Care, Box 428, Rivers, MB R0K 1X0.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available.

Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-athome career today!

Winter Road Haul 2016 Class 1 Drivers needed for deliveries in MB & NW Ont. (800) 665-4302 ext. 223 or e-mail: orderdesk@penneroil.ca

NOTICES

God gives us something to do on His day. He calls us to worship, prayer and times of meditation, with family and in public.

If we are to have proper views of the Lord’s Day, we need to recognize it is not merely what we think is right for that day.

Malcolm Maccinnes www.clda.ca Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the ad; Manitoba Community Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such ads. For more info on ad conditions visit www.mcna.com.

Hip or Knee Replacement?

Problems Walking or Getting Dressed?

The Disability Tax Credit $2,000 Yearly Tax Credit $20,000 Lump Sum Refund

FOR SALE

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 equipment.

The Battery Man. Winnipeg. 1.877.775.8271 www.batteryman.ca PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 400,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or email classifieds@mcna.com for details.

Restless Leg Syndrome & Leg Cramps? Fast Relief In One Hour. Sleep At Night. Proven For Over 32 Years. www. allcalm.com Mon-Fri 8-4 EST 1-800-765-8660 PRE-CHRISTMAS SALE! Nov 27 - Dec 6. Save 10-60% off all in-stock store-wide products. BLACK FRIDAY SPECIALS: $499 Queen 800 pocket coil mattress set (firm or plush). $199 5 piece table set (table 36�x48�). $449 4 piece bedroom suite including dresser, mirror, night stand & headboard (2 colours).

OTHER CHRISTMAS SPECIALS: $995 solid birch table set w/4 chairs (46�x46� opens to 65� round). $695 King pillow-top mattress set.

Many other floor model, fabric furniture specials.

Mon-Fri 10-8, Sat 10-6 & Sun 12-5. Call KDL Furniture at 204-5711971. 660 Highland Ave., South side of #1 Hwy., Brandon.

MANUFACTURED HOMES

IMMEDIATE DELIVERY AVAILABLE. 1584 sqft 3 bedroom/2 bath RTM for only $185,000.

Pictures available at wgiesbrechthomes.ca.

For additional information or to schedule a booking please call 204-346-3231 or email wilbert@wghomes.ca.

Also taking orders for spring delivery.

Claim it before tax time!

204-453-5372

Anniversary You are both a wonderful example of love, relation and family.

Congratulations on your 50th anniversary on November 27!

Love, your family

turns out to be generosity at its finest

By Sharlette Paddock Secretary Riverdale Harvest food bank held its November meeting on the night of Remembrance Day. We discussed the generosity of our neighbours and friends as almost 1,000 pounds of food was donated, along with some monetary donations, through the We Scare Hunger Drive on Halloween night. A big bouquet to the students who collected and the individuals who gave; their picture and a brief story was printed in last week’s Banner on the back page. You can reference it for more information.

In October we distributed 18 family hampers which included 35 children, four single hampers and no couple hampers.

A reminder that we will be pulling our hampers from Rivers Bigway Foods, Super Thrifty Pharmacy (Rivers) and the churches for the early part of December; this allows donors to support Christmas Cheer hampers for the Rivers area instead.

We look forward to meeting again on Dec. 9 at Prairie Crocus Regional Library at 7:30 p.m.

Please accept our invitation to attend!

12 RIVERS BANNER November 27, 2015

Imaging chair arrives

By Sheila Runions Banner Staff

A

t the June meeting of Riverdale District Health Auxiliary (RDHA), members agreed to spend $3,300 on an imaging chair for the lab department at Riverdale Health Centre. They sent a letter of intent, which was then forwarded to government departments for approval and by late September, the order was officially placed with a company in Quebec; the chair arrived in Rivers on Nov. 16.

Lab and X-ray personnel previously assisted patients onto a stool which was sometimes dragged into the perfect position once the patient was seated. Medical radiation technologist Katelyn Lovett explains the four-wheeled chair “is more stable. It has wheels with locks and once the person is sat, the armrests drop down and the back also drops to the side, so it turns into a stool, but it is more stable for someone to get on and off.”

The chair, pictured with one armrest down and Lovett holding the back before it falls to the side, is also equipped with a foot pump to raise the height of the chair. It has a track system to allow the seat to move laterally so a person may be lined exactly in front of the X-ray plate, shown between some RDHA members who came for this photo. The memory foam seat is integrated with 1.5 inches of thick gel and the outer material is antimicrobial treated and seam-free, which is considered to be “easy to clean and hospital-friendly.” It is rated to hold 450 pounds and has a two-year warranty.

Photo by Sheila Runions

Back row L/R: Karen Cullen, Lynn Madden, Pat Wood, Michelle McFadden, Lori Kiesman, Suzan Ramsey. Front row L/R: Shirley Russell, Beth English, Charlotte MacDonald, Debbie Johannson, Diane Marriott, Katelyn Lovett, Bernice Elliott, Barb Sveistrup.

Kitchen electrical safety ingredients A kitchen generally contains several electrical appliances and you could have a recipe for disaster if electrical safety rules are not followed. Ensure that your kitchen is safe by following these electrical safety tips: • Don’t mix water and electricity. If you touch an appliance while simultaneously turning on a tap or touching a water basin, your body could become a path for electricity.

• The electrical outlet on your range is a convenience but it could also be dangerous if an element is in use.

A cord lying across a hot element could quickly melt and expose live wires. Use the electrical outlets located away from the range instead.

• An electrical cord dangling off the edge of a counter is a danger for children and adults alike. When small appliances aren’t being used, be sure they are unplugged and moved to the rear of the counter. Additionally, always let an appliance cool off before putting it away.

• Attempting to retrieve a piece of bread stuck in a toaster with a knife or fork could result in a serious shock and can easily damage the delicate wires inside the appliance.

When bread gets stuck in the toaster, be sure to unplug the appliance before attempting to remove the toast.

• Be sure to unplug the electric frying pan from the outlet first, and only then disconnect the plug from the fry pan.

It is dangerous to disconnect the cord attached to a small appliance before disconnecting the cord plugged into the electrical socket. The prong that fits into the appliance would remain live and could cause a shock.

Rivers Santa Claus Parade

Pancake Breakfast Saturday, Dec. 5 Rivers Civic Centre 7:30-9:30 a.m.

Adults $5 12-and-under free.

Brought to you by Rivers and Area Lions Club

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