December 15, 2023

Friday, December 15, 2023 • Vol.116 No. 14 • Rivers, Manitoba 204-724-6870 280 Taylor Road Rivers, MB R0K 1X0 www.redlinetransport.ca alepp@redlinetransport.ca

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Local Rivers Woman has joined the Canadian Bobsleigh Team

HISTORY OF CHRISTMAS LIGHTS PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY SCOT RAMSAY

Morgan Ramsay, brakeman for the Canadian Bobsleigh Team and her teammate Eden Wilson, team pilot, checking over the sleigh.

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Rivers own Morgan Ramsay on the Canadian Bobsleigh Team.

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organ Ramsay, daughter of Scott R a m s ay a nd Dana Hockley, has joined the Canadian Bobsleigh team.

The Rivers native caught on to the sport remarkably fast.

Ramsay, 23, was a track and hockey star growing up. She set Zone 7 records in the 100-metre and 200-metre with the Rivers Rams and trained with coach Bryce Koscielny’s Prairie Storm Athletics. She did really well on her fitness tests, including sprints, long jump, a few lifts and a push test with a sled on ice. Ramsay felt the speed mechanics she learned on the track and the power she developed over the years of skating paired perfectly for bobsleigh.

Ramsay became the brakeman for the team. Ramsay and her team are currently competing in France on the World Cup circuit.

By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

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Ramsay is checking out the course.

2 Rivers Banner December 15, 2023

What a stag-geringly great night

By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner Bucks, bucks, and more bucks entered in the Kenton Buck Night competition at the Kenton Legion. Kenton Buck Night took place on Wednesday, Dec 6.

Mark Routledge, Glenn Hunter, Doug Roseaver and Robert Alexander helped with the scoring of the antlers. 33 heads were entered in the competition.

The winners were: Youth category - Easton Slimmons and Slade Hagan. Archery category – Tim Gompf. Mule Deer – Slade Hagan. Men’s Typical – Danny Gerrard and Josh Murray.

Men’s non-typical Garret Kent, Wyatt Shane, and Brodie Hunter. Ladies category – Haily Johns and Natalie Bailey. Many different prizes were handed out.

Five different types of chili were served to those who made it out to the event. The door prize contest was won by Dallas MacDonald with the closest guess of a score of 218 3/8 on the antlers at the door. The actual score was 217. He won $56.

A big thank-you to the sponsors Jo-Brooks Firearms, Woodworth Dodge, Cargill, Fusion Credit Union, Redferns, Whyte’s Lumber, Bot he Farms, Jody’s Repair, Diamond T Limousin, Ag Land Farm’s Ltd, Kevin McKinnon Crossfire Trucking, Brierwood Creek Café and Grill and Star Craft Cabinets.

Checking out the competitors. 33 heads entered in the competition.

PHOTO BY JESSICA COULTER

New financial cooperative explored by three longstanding Manitoba financial institutions

The new organization would embrace a commitment to urban, rural, and agricultural communities, French language services, and a values-based approach to banking.

Submitted

By Westoba Credit Union Assiniboine Credit Union, Caisse Financial Group and Westoba Credit Union announced they are collaborating to explore combining their operations to create a new credit union in Manitoba.

“The environment for Canadian financial institutions is influenced by increasing competition, member needs and expectations, technology investments, a challenging economic environment and increasing regulatory requirements,” says Crystal Laborero, Board Chair, Assiniboine Credit Union.

“We are exploring whether together as one credit union, we could be stronger and better positioned to address these opportunities and challenges.”

“There is the potential to build something great for our members and our province,” says Réal Déquier, Board Chair, Caisse Financial Group. “The partners have made a commitment that a new entity would continue to offer French language services. A new financial cooperative with greater size and strength will have more

capacity to deliver enhanced products, services, and technology for our personal and business members.”

The three organizations have started an exploration process where they will evaluate each other’s operations and develop a comprehensive business case. The new credit union would commence operations in a financially strong and highly competitive position, with nearly $10 billion in assets.

“The decision on whether to come together as one will be guided by the question, is this collaboration in the best interests of our members, employees and communities,” says Garnet McBurney, Board Chair Westoba Credit Union, “This includes a commitment to ensuring our values guide our decision making,

and continuing to support the communities that make the partners who we are today – Manitoba’s rural, agriculture-based, urban, and French communities.”

Throughout this process the partners will consult with their employees, members, and communities to learn more about what they would like to see from their financial services provider in the future. If the due diligence and business case processes result in the three Boards recommending a merger, regulatory and membership approval will be sought.

For more information, please visit: CollaborationMB.ca

December 15, 2023 Rivers Banner 3

When did Christmas lights become so popular?

Submitted

By Metro Creative

Holiday lights are now everywhere come the holiday season. Private homeowners tend to hang the holiday lights outside their homes around Thanksgiving weekend and keep them up through New Year’s Day. Though it might seem like a tradition without a deep history, decorating a Christmas tree with electric lights can be traced all the way back to the nineteenth century. In 1882, Edward Johnson, who was a friend and colleague of the man who invented light bulbs, Thomas Edison, replaced candles, which had traditionally been used to briefly light Christmas trees, with light bulbs. But at the time of Johnson’s innovation, the high cost and relative infancy of light bulbs ensured the idea did not catch on. And though United States President Grover Cleveland used electric lights to illuminate a Christmas tree in the White House in 1895, it would be another eight years before General Electric would begin selling Christmas light kits. Those kits cost $12 in 1903, which equates to several hundred dollars today. The first outdoor Christmas light shows started to become popular in the 1920s, and this is the same time when commercial sales of Christmas lights picked

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up. In the 1960s, GE’s decision to begin manufacturing Christmas lights overseas helped reduce the price of outdoor lights even further, thus paving the way for the tradition of decorating home exteriors with string lights during the holiday season to take a firm hold. And that tradition remains wildly popular today.

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Neil Strohschein Gifts that keep on giving, Part III

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From last weeks front page I

FAITHFULLY YOURS

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ou are probably wondering when (or if) I was going to tackle the issue of Christmas donations. Well, today’s the day. But please don’t stop reading; because I am not going to be spending an excessive amount of time talking about money and year-end donations.

I am well aware of the direct mail appeals, the emails, the TV and radio ads and the many in-person requests you may receive. Charitable organizations rely on year-end donations to help them meet their budgets. They will be asking us to do what we can to help them fund the services they provide in and for our communities. For most of us, the question is not “how much should we give;” but “to whom should we give it?” I would suggest that you pick a charity with whose goals and objectives you agree and make your donation to them.

I have lived in this community long enough to know that it contains a small, but very inf luential group of people. They work in secret. They do not want others to see or know what they are doing.

But their actions bring joy to many hearts each year. These people make regular weekly or monthly donations to their favorite charities. Each donation may not be all that much; but over time, they add up and the total that appears on their year end receipt can be quite significant. You know who you are. A grateful community thanks you.

I have also noticed another inf luential group of people. This group is considerably larger, but it is a group in which we all can participate, because it doesn’t cost any money to join and the rewards we get for our participation in this group are things that money can’t buy.

We call these people “volunteers;” and they are a community’s most valuable asset. They do not take on tasks or projects because they have to.

They do it because they choose to give their time and talent to help those who cannot afford to pay for the services they offer.

Some of these people hold Board and other Executive positions in their church or in a community service club. Some use their personal vehicles to drive people to a medical appointment in Brandon or Winnipeg. Others will help prepare and deliver Christmas hampers; collect donations for a Christmas toy drive.

And let’s not forget those who will spend several hours each week helping the elderly and infirm by mowing lawns in the summer and clearing sidewalks in the winter so that these people can live in beautiful surroundings and move safely from place to place around town. The few hours they spend doing these things forge friendships that last a lifetime.

Take a moment and re-read the words printed above. Then close your eyes for a moment and ask God to show you something that you can do; some way by which you can use your time, talent and treasure to help your community. You may be pleasantly surprised at how quickly God will answer that prayer and what opportunities he may send your way.

We can all be sure of one thing. In answer to that prayer, God will direct us to one person who needs a faithful friend; and he will ask us to be “a friend indeed to a friend in need.” No gift we will give this Christmas will be more appreciated or generate greater rewards that being a friend to someone else. It’s another of those gifts that will keep on giving.

4 Rivers Banner December 15, 2023

Tundra

Perspectives Homebodies

By Chad Carpenter

Rita Friesen

Memories and going forward

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he older I get, obviously the more memories I gather unto my aging brain. The first Christmases that comes to mind seem to blend together. Always a tree cut out in the bush and placed in the house bay window. I remember the red ball placed near the top of the tree, the ball bought by my uncle for my brothers in early WWll to cheer them up as Dad was not home that Christmas. No electric lights either on the tree or in the house, as we didn’t get electricity until 1954 when I was six years old. I remember presents under the tree in plain green or red tissue.

Usually there was a toy or two. One Christmas, my older brother played Santa Claus at the local Christmas concert and I didn’t even catch on. I was always naive and sometimes still am. When I was about eight or nine, my brother bought me a matchbox bulldozer and I still have it over 65 years later. Its poor little rubber tracks are pretty much evaporated away.

My uncle and aunt would come out from Winnipeg to the farm when weather conditions allowed. I think they had a 1952 car, perhaps a Chevy. In 1957, they had a two-tone salmon coloured Chevy four door.

That was a modern car and seemed such a wonderful machine. As a side note, the late 1950s was a great era for cars. My Dad traded in a 1951 International half-ton for a shiny new 1958 red and white IHC. Marvellous little truck for its day.

I remember Christmas concerts and plays and they always ended with a Nativity Scene. Too bad that we can’t seem to do that today, as it might offend somebody. In my opinion, if people are offended by “faith” plays and dramas, they need to get a life.

We need to lift up the peaceful side of all faiths and expose and decry the violent sides. I am mainly talking about Christian, Muslim, Jewish neepawa

Banner Rivers & Press Banner STAFF

Right in the Centre Ken Waddell and First Nations faiths and beliefs.

The big problem today is that we have allowed our country to be so divided that we can’t embrace and enjoy the peace side of each others faiths. Instead it seems, we have to take a stand, divide into factions and declare our hatred for other groups.

We are divided by politicians, media, activists and academics into smaller and smaller groups. The hatred, the violence and false statements are enough to make any caring person distraught.

It’s a long way from the local Christmas concert of the 1950s to the goofy world we live in today. I said I was naive and I guess back in the 1950s, I was quite naive. But I, and my family, knew enough to care about our families and neighbours.

Sure, there were some class distinctions and there was some suspicion between the local Protestant church people and the Roman Catholics.

That said, it was a small community that cared about each other and looked after each other.

And I say this openly, back then and today we have free choice to express our faith, or lack of it as we see fit. I have openly expressed my faith in this column many times over the past years and at the same time I don’t force my views on anybody. I may have at one time and I likely did on my sons, but I have apologized to them for that.

I believe in Christmas and in Jesus Christ who came as the Christmas babe, grew up as man and then was put to death on a cross. He died that we might be saved. I believe in all the Christian faith teaches about Jesus. I encourage everyone to consider that as well, but we are made with a free will so it is up to you to decide.

I also believe that the Christian church, as has all faith groups, made some horrible decisions. It would take pages to list the “sins” of the Christian church but I declare here and now that I don’t believe that Jesus wanted any of those sins to happen that were committed in his name. I think he cried over every one of them.

God is love and if love isn’t happening, then I don’t think God is backing it.

I also believe in prayer and have prayed for dozens, if not hundreds of people. I plan to continue to do so, but as some of you know, my wife and I, but especially my wife, would appreciate your prayers. We are grateful for all our medical people, but they can only do so much. Prayer is needed for sure.

May you and yours have a blessed Christmas and a very joy-filled New Year.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this column are the writer’s personal views and are not to be taken as being the view of the Rivers Banner staff.

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s far back as I can remember, music has been important to my family lines. Some of my aunts were music teachers, several of my uncles and one of my cousins were choir directors- in churches and in schools, and it was a rare family that didn’t have at least one person that played the piano and guitar. Table grace, sung in four part harmony, sent shivers up my back. Music has such power, to comfort, to encourage and to engage. The sunrises have been absolutely gorgeous many mornings lately. And I’m up to witness them! More than once, viewing the glorious array of colours beaming through the sky, the words of hymn written way back in 1828 soar through my mind. “When morning gilds the skies, my heart awakening cries; may Jesus Christ be praised’. Uttering these words aloud sets the tone for my day. It is a humbling recognition that all that beauty out there, for everyone to see, and take note of, is a gift.

When I settle back in my chair, mid morning, to give my leg a rest, it is my custom to watch a little television.

Usually a home reno show, or a nature film, but this particular morning while channel surfing, there was a gospel group that I appreciate singing. And being from a people that sing, I stopped to watch. The first song I caught was, ‘Lord. I hope this day is good.’ Quite took my breath away for it is a song that was often sung, hummed or strummed in my home. Every one of my children and most of my grandchildren would know, by heart. Settling into the music was refreshing and encouraging, filling my heart and mind with countless precious memories. Such a simple thing as a randomly captured song changed the trajectory of my thoughts, for the better.

It has become my custom to take one more slow, careful, walk around the neighbourhood after dark. The Christmas lights in our end of the town are spectacular. And I am close enough to the railway tracks that if I wish, I may walk in enough darkness to catch the northern lights.

This winter folks have shared incredible photos of this natural pheromone. I have seen glimpses of the dancing lights- angels at play- but not like some have seen. As we walk, my dog and I, we note the changing of the seasons on the moon, the reflection of it’s rays on snow and ice.

It is as I walk this portion of the pathway that the words ‘ on a cold winter’s night, every star shone so bright’, a phrase from a Christmas hymn, comes to my mind.

And I ponder how it is that I get to live in such safety and comfort. How is it that I have no fear of bombs, no dread of hunger, no crippling ill health? I have enough and to share, what a gift. And then the music does a shift.

Words written more than a century ago, ‘silent night, holy night’ fill my heart and mind. The gift of music, generation to generation.

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December 15, 2023 Rivers Banner 5

A Traffic stop was initiated on Highway 25 when a vehicle traveling 136 km/h passed a police vehicle.

Records show that the driver was previously warned for speeding 3 times. A ticket was issued to the driver.

Ontario Provincial Police requested assistance and input from Rivers Police pertaining to a prohibited Manitoba driver that had been dealt with recently in Rivers. The conditions that were imposed are enforceable in all provinces.

Police were dispatched to a person in a mental health crisis. The client had ingested excessive alcohol and sedatives. They were taken to the hospital via ambulance.

A concerned resident alerted police to a house where the parents had allegedly been absent for days, leaving the children at home. Police performed a well-being check and found that the children had a teen-aged sibling staying with them and an adult relative checking in. Their basic needs were met.

Child Family Services were informed of the situation and will assist by monitoring the household to ensure that the children are alright.

Police were called to a Rivers business where there was a concern of impaired driving. Police investigated the matter and found that though the driver exhibited signs of impairment it was not established Lon Schwartz (Chief of Police) Rivers Police Service

that they were currently intoxicated, but more likely experiencing a cognitive issue. The matter will be addressed via the medical community and MPI Driver Fitness.

Police provided the person a ride home and assisted in getting their vehicle back to their residence.

Police were made aware of a door-to-door scam wherein people have been selling chocolate bars at marked up prices saying that they are fundraising.

On the weekend police were called about this very thing and spoke with the salesperson who decided to move along and sell chocolates elsewhere.

A traffic stop was made on Highway 25 when a vehicle passed another vehicle on ice covered and

Gingerbread Men Cookies Gingerbread men cookies come to us from across the pond where Queen Elizabeth I was the first person to serve them. She presented visiting dignitaries with gingerbread cookies decorated to look just like them.

Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling 2 teaspoons Ginger 1 teaspoon Cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup butter, softened 3/4 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup molasses 1 egg 1 teaspoon Vanilla Directions: 1) Mix flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt in large bowl.

2) Beat butter and brown sugar in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla; mix well. Gradually beat in flour mixture on low speed until well mixed.

3) Press dough into a thick, flat disk. Wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.

4) Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

5) Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of 1/4 inch. Cut into gingerbread men shapes with a 5-inch cookie cutter. Place gingerbread men 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets.

6) Bake in the preheated oven until edges of cookies are set and just begin to brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Cool on baking sheets for 1 to 2 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.

7) Decorate cooled cookies as desired. Store cookies in airtight container up to 5 days.

slippery roads. The vehicle was stopped, and the driver was issued a ticket for driving imprudently.

Police remain diligent in patrolling the town with special emphasis on the school zones. Drivers are reminded to be aware of children walking to and from school. With hoods and scarves restricting the peripheral vision of children, drivers are asked to be extra cautious to ensure the safety of these young people.

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6 Rivers Banner December 15, 2023

Ode to the Poinsettia

Submitted

By Patricia Hanbidge

As the holiday season approaches, the garden centres and other retail outlets are ablaze with holiday plants. The most traditional holiday plant is of course the poinsettia. It is simply amazing to see these plants we associate with Christmas merrily blooming in climates known for their sand and sun. In their natural form they are a large, leggy shrub that is adorned with the lovely red “blooms” on the ends of the branches.

The Christmas poinsettia is a member of the large group of plants known as Euphorbias. The group displays extreme variability in growth habit, from succulent types so cactus-like in appearance that one member of the group was given the botanical name Euphorbia pseudocactus to leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula) which is considered a noxious weed. However, the Christmas poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is the most famous member of this diverse group of relatives.

The species name pulcherrima means “most beautiful” and market sales support that we as consumers agree. Poinsettias say Christmas everywhere and 70% of the poinsettias grown are sold in regions that never get snow.

Poinsettias are native to southern Mexico and Central America. Although red is still the best-selling poinsettia, plant breeders have produced many different cultivars that are a variety of shapes and colours. Joel R. Poinsett is the man given credit for introducing this plant into the United States when he was the first ambassador to Mexico from 1825 to 1829. As he was a scientist and a botanist, he noticed these shrubs growing wild in the hills around Taxco and sent a few of these plants home to South Carolina for his personal collection. He began propagating them in his greenhouse and giving them to friends and to botanical gardens. It was only a few years later that poinsettias were being sold at Christmas time in and around New York and Philadelphia. It is the Ecke family whose name is most often associated with growing poinsettias as they did much selection and

Keystone Centre unveils new logo

The Keystone Centre has unveiled a brand new logo as part of its 50th anniversary celebration.

The new logo, designed in partnership with Leech Group, features a K dressed in the outline of a star. The departure from the previous Keystone Centre logo has taken immediate effect.

“Our new logo, in the shape of a star, captures the spirit of direction and destination, instilling the logo with a sense of purpose,” says Keystone Centre acting general manager Connie Lawrence. “As our customers embark on their journeys towards success, our logo stands as a symbol of guidance, pointing them towards their desired destinations.”

“Incorporating this star-shaped logo into our brand identity symbolizes our commitment to excellence in customer service,” adds Lawrence. “It serves as a visual representation of our dedication, reminding us, and our customers, that their aspirations are our top priority. With this logo, we showcase our values, and demonstrate our dedication to being the guiding light for our customers, illuminating their path to success.”

In addition to the new logo, the Keystone Centre will be celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special community event on June 15th, featuring live music, and more to be announced.

“We want to welcome Westman to our 50th anniversary celebration, where we commemorate half a century of community unity and growth,” says Jared McKenzie, Keystone Centre director of marketing. “This event, featuring live music, will be completely free to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all. We’re eager to announce the bands, and a bunch of other exciting features of this 50th anniversary celebration, but most of all, we look forward to the next 50 years of bringing our community together.”

Replacement of existing signage is set to take place in stages over the coming months.

About the Keystone Centre: The mandate of the Keystone Centre is to enhance the lives of Westman residents through providing a safe, family-friendly, multi-functional, full-service facility for use in a wide range of events, meetings, entertainment, agricultural and recreational activities throughout all seasons, accessible to everyone in the community.

Submitted

By Jared McKenzie

PHOTO ON FILE

breeding work to produce smaller plants that were longer-lasting and vigorous in growth. The ‘Oak Leaf’ cultivar was the first of the poinsettias to retain some of its leaves while in bloom as earlier cultivars would have colourful bracts on leggy, leafless stems. Since the 1960’s most of our poinsettias are hybrids and the result of even more improved selections.

The common feature linking all these plants together is their very distinct flowers.

The red “flowers” of a poinsettia plant are not actually flowers at all, but merely bright red leaves arranged in star-like clusters at the ends of the branches. The bright bracts are designed to draw pollinating insects toward the inconspicuous but true flowers of yellowish hue in their centre. The word “bract” is a botanical term for any leaf that has lost its normal photosynthetic role to take on a more specialised role. If you observe any poinsettia “flower” carefully, you’ll find at least a couple of leaves that are partially green and partially coloured. These were caught mid-way when the plant switched into “flowering mode” and began changing new developing leaves into coloured bracts. A short-day plant, poinsettias initiate flowering after exposure to an eight-week period where nights are at least 14 hours long. Commercial growers bringing them into flower for Christmas are therefore careful to assure the plants experience nights of at least this length.

This Ode to the Poinsettia will continue for two more pieces that are devoted to this amazing plant. We hope that you are enjoying a poinsettia in your home and that perhaps you will gift a plant to some of the special people in your life.

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date from the shipper, the as indicated Received at point of origin on this marked, consigned and destined of contents of packages unknown) otherwise to except as noted (contents and conditionsand deliver to the consignee at the destination if on its own route, carry below, which the carrier agrees to and as route to the destination. portion of the route to destination, deliver to another carrier on the or any of the goods over all or any shall be subject It is agreed as to each carrier of all service to be performed hereunder himself and in all or any of the goods, that every to by the shipper and accepted for to each party at any time interested or written, which are hereby agreed to all the conditions, whether printed his assigns.

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B/L Neil McCausland DBA: KNM Ag Transport Box 92; 238 Railway Ave Kenton MB R0M 0Z0 NEGOTIABLE

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and tariffs in effect on date of issue

of this Original Bill of Lading

... Date:...................................

At:........................................................................................................................ order, herein described, in apparent good

date from the shipper, the goods as indicated Received at point of origin on this marked, consigned and destined of contents of packages unknown) otherwise to except as noted (contents and conditionsand deliver to the consignee at the destination if on its own route, carry below, which the carrier agrees to and as route to the destination. portion of the route to destination, deliver to another carrier on the or any of the goods over all or any shall be subject It is agreed as to each carrier of all service to be performed hereunder himself and in all or any of the goods, that every to by the shipper and accepted for to each party at any time interested or written, which are hereby agreed to all the conditions, whether printed his assigns.

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December 15, 2023 Rivers Banner 7

Submitted Metro Creative The holiday season is a great time to make any home a bit merrier and brighter. Most individuals let their personalities show through their home decor, and holiday decorating is just as personal as decorating throughout the rest of the year. The main living areas of a home get the most decorating attention, with a Christmas tree or menorah taking a prominent position in the front window.

Garlands, candles, and other accoutrements also may dress up spaces. However, when it comes to holiday hosting, attention also should be given to the dining table which can benefit from a festive centrepiece. Premade centrepieces are undeniably attractive, but adding a homespun touch can be a fun creative pursuit and become a family tradition. Explore these eight simple ideas to dress up your holiday table. 1. Frosted pinecones: Take advantage of a crisp winter’s day to venture into a forest or park that is rich with evergreen trees. Gather pinecones from the forest floor and, if possible, a few evergreen boughs. Give the pinecones a touch of winter whimsy with a little faux snow in a can or even white paint. Nestle the boughs and pinecones into a wide-mouthed vase or bowl in the centre of the table. Individual pinecones can later be turned into place cards for seating guests. 2. Holiday thanks: Cut many strips of paper roughly 6 inches in length from various colored pieces of paper to match the holiday theme.

When guests arrive, ask them to write a favorite holiday memory or two, or what they’re thankful for. Twirl the paper strips around a pencil to curl them, and then place the curlicues into a decorative bowl in the centre of the table. Later in the evening, the host or hostess can read some of the sentiments. 3. Magical Forest: Use green and silver conical party hats to turn a table or sideboard into a veritable evergreen forest. Arrange them on a blanket of faux snow or white confetti. 4. Freshly cut: Select at-

PHOTO BY METRO CREATIVE

tractive flowers in vibrant holiday hues from a florist or even the supermarket floral section. Cut the stems and place them into an unusual display container, such as holiday themed mugs or a punch bowl. 5. Glass baubles: Who says ornaments should be exclusive to the tree? A crystal or glass cake stand can be transformed into an icy delight when topped with silver and clear glass ornaments.

6. Birch wood: The crisp white coloring of birch bark is right at home with holiday decor. Go stark with pieces of the cut wood in varying heights intermingled with white candles that mimic the shapes and scale of the wood. 7.

Fruit and vegetables: If guests are coming over and the race is on for a fast centrepiece, look no further than the kitchen. Lemons, artichokes, pears, or pomegranates look festive in a bowl interspersed with some greenery and baby’s breath. 8. Cornucopia: The horn of plenty can be customized to any holiday. Purchase a horn in wicker or woven grapevine and fill with flowers, fruit and greenery, or even painted gourds or miniature pumpkins. Holiday hosts and hostesses should not neglect the dining table when they decorate. Festive centrepieces can be handmade without much effort on the part of hosts.

What to know about RSV

Submitted Metro Creative

As cold season hits full swing, it’s important to recognize that the common cold is not always behind those uncomfortable coughs and sniffles.

What is RSV? The Mayo Clinic reports that RSV is a virus that infects the lungs and respiratory tract. Though RSV may not be as familiar as the common cold, perhaps it’s more familiar than many people realize, as the Mayo Clinic indicates most children have been infected with the virus by the time, they’re two years old.

When is RSV most likely to occur? According to the ALA, the peak season for RSV is fall through spring.

What are the symptoms of R SV ? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that people infected with RSV typically exhibit symptoms within four to six days of infection. Such symptoms, which usually appear in stages and not all at

PHOTO BY METRO CREATIVE

once, may include runny nose, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing.

Young infants with RSV may be irritable, less active and experience breathing difficulties. The ALA notes that RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization in all infants, so symptoms should be taken seriously and brought to the attention of a child’s pediatrician immediately.

How is RSV managed?

Antiviral medication is

not typically part of a treatment for RSV, as most infections go away within a week or two without intervention. Symptoms such as fever and pain can be managed with over-thecounter fever reducers and pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and speaking with a physician prior to taking something or giving a child something to treat RSV is recommended.

Rivers & Area Lions Club 44th Annual Seniors Christmas Supper Saturday, December 16th, 2023 Rivers Legion Hall TAKE OUT ONLY Phone: 204-328-7440 For pick-up or take-out time Starts at 4:30pm Only taking 150 Orders.

8 Rivers Banner December 15, 2023

Frosty the Snowman Submitted

By Metro Creative Who can resist the magic of the holiday season? Especially when that magic brings a normally inanimate snowman to life! That’s the concept behind Frosty the Snowman a song both children and adults enjoy each holiday season. Musicians Jack Rollins and Steve Nelson co-wrote the song in 1950, when it quickly caught on as a catchy and memorable tune. Just a year earlier, Rollins and Nelson penned Here Comes Peter Cottontail for an Easter special, so they were no strangers to kid-friendly holiday songs. The Frosty song led to a children’s book soon after, and later was brought to the television screen in 1969 for a holiday special that has become a must-watch in many households.

Frosty the snowman was a jolly happy soul, With a corncob pipe and a button nose And two eyes made out of coal.

Frosty the snowman is a fairy tale, they say, He was made of snow but the children Know how he came to life one day.

There must have been some magic in that Old silk hat they found.

For when they placed it on his head He began to dance around.

O, Frosty the snowman

Was alive as he could be, And the children say he could laugh And play just the same as you and me.

(Chorus) Thumpetty thump thump, Thumpetty thump thump, Look at Frosty go.

Thumpetty thump thump, Thumpetty thump thump, Over the hills of snow.

Frosty the snowman knew The sun was hot that day, So he said, “Lets run and We’ll have some fun Now before I melt away.”

Down to the village, With a broomstick in his hand, Running here and there all Around the square saying, Catch me if you can.

He led them down the streets of town Right to the traffic cop.

And he only paused a moment when He heard him holler Stop!

PHOTO ON FILE

For Frosty the snow man Had to hurry on his way, But he waved goodbye saying, Don’t you cry, I’ll be back again some day.

(Chorus) Written by Jack Rollins and Steve Nelson Lyrics courtesy of Christmassongs.net

Hamiota’s Hamiota ~ Brandon ~ Birtle ~ Pilot Mound ~ Killarney ~ Deloraine HAMIOTA: 204-764-2544 BRANDON: 888-726-1995

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

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December 15, 2023 Rivers Banner 9

CLASSIFIEDS Help Wanted

Obituary

Employment Opportunity Watershed District Regional Manager Oak River, Manitoba The Assiniboine West Watershed District is looking to find a motivated individual to fill a full time permanent position based in the Oak River office.

Acting as the area manager this person join our team and will develop and deliver soil and water resource management programming in the region.

Qualifications • Post secondary education in agriculture with an emphasis in environmental studies, plant science, soil science or animal science. An equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered • Experience in agronomy, crop production, forage production, rangeland production or livestock production and environmentally sustainable cropping and livestock practices • Knowledge of soils, climate, crops or livestock specific to Manitoba • Excellent verbal communication skills, including the ability to deliver effective presentations • Strong written communication skills with the ability to write clear, concise documents, reports, guides, and factsheets to convey complex technical information to a variety of internal and external audiences • Excellent interpersonal skills to interact effectively and maintain strong working relationships with rural clients, industry groups and internal contacts • Strong problem solving skills with the ability to analyze situations, develop options and make sound recommendations, including livestock, forage or cropland management or for the adoption of beneficial management practices • Strong planning and organizational skills with the ability to work under pressure and manage multiple deadlines with limited lead times • Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook, ARCGIS online or similar GIS program • Sound knowledge of issues, regulations and beneficial management practices related to crop and livestock production in Manitoba Interested candidates should submit resume to info@myawwd.ca This posting will remain open until a suitable candidate is located. We appreciate any interest in this position but only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted. www.myawwd.ca ~ 204-567-3554 ~ info@myawwd.ca

RTM’s An area full of recreational opportunities, parks, lakes, cultural events, a sense of community and much more!

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES RIVERS & HAMIOTA Health Facilities Home Care Attendants & Health Care Aides Casual & Part-time positions Environmental Services (Housekeeping & Laundry) Casual & Part-time positions Cook I & Dietary Aides Casual positions Community Mental Health Worker (Rivers) Part-time positions Registered Dietitians (Hamiota) Full-time positions JOIN THE HEALTH CARE TEAM! APPLY TODAY! www.prairiemountainhealth.ca, click on Careers An excellent health care benefit package that includes but limited to health & dental benefits, pension plan & a health spending account.

We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in Prairie Mountain Health however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

These positions are subject to a Criminal Record Check (including Vulnerable Sector), Adult Abuse Registry Check, and a Child Abuse Registry Check. The successful applicant will be responsible for any services charges incurred.

EDITH MAE SEDGWICK Edith Mae Sedgwick was born in Minnedosa on July 8th, 1943. She passed away in Minnedosa Hospital on December 2nd, 2023 at the age of 80. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 59 years, Ken Kingdon, parents Roy and Marjorie Sedgwick, and sister Heidi (Hilda) Weselowski.

Edith is survived by her daughters, Louise McInnes (Trent), Lesley Dabe (Rick), grandchildren Josh McInnes (Kristy), Jessica Gee (Kyle) and Kelli Tanski (Chad), and 4 great-grandchildren Iyla, Emma, Rhett and Charlee. She will also be dearly missed by her brother, Milton (Joan) Sedgwick, her sister, Marlene (Carl) Bialas, sister-in-law, Joyce Cameron and her many nieces and nephews.

Edith grew up on the farm and went to school in Bethany, with her big brother, Milt, big sister, Marlene and little sister, Hilda.

She developed a love for cooking, baking and gardening. But her true teenage love was Elvis!

As a teenager, Edith worked with her sister Marlene at the Burgess Grocery Store. She then graduated in stenography and worked as a secretary for the law office of Don St. John.

Edith met her handsome husband, Ken Kingdon, at a dance in Clanwilliam and they were married on June 29th, 1963. Louise arrived and they started their family, while Ken was still taking his plumbing/gas fitter course in Winnipeg. When Ken finished his courses he got a job with Brickwood Plumbing and Heating in Rivers, where their second daughter, Lesley, was born.

The family moved to Hamiota where Ken continued to work with Brickwood Plumbing and Heating and Edith was able to stay at home with the girls when they were young. Eventually Ken and Edie and the girls would settle into the community of Oak River, where Edie had a home daycare and then began working at the Oak River Quick Freeze. They called Oak River home for over 30 years, making many life-long friends!

Ken and Edie moved to Minnedosa in 2001 where they lived happily together, enjoying the garden, yard work and daily walks along the bison compound, the river and surrounding hills.

Edie has always been very proud and supportive of her two daughters and grandchildren. Lovingly nicknamed “Gma”, she spent hours with Josh and Jess, passing on her cooking and baking knowledge. Her vegetables and flowers were her special pride!

Edie was an avid reader, spending hours in the sun back in the day, and sitting on their back deck at the Minnedosa house.

She was also known for solving many timeline disputes by pulling out her diary that she kept for years. The family is so grateful for this keepsake of our lives through the years.

Throughout her life she had many well-loved pets and granddogs! She enjoyed attending Josh’s hockey and baseball games and Jess’s concerts and plays.

During her many trips south to visit family, Edie developed a true love of the ocean. Her girls fondly recall a very special mother-daughter road trip from Tennessee through the Appalachian mountains and down the east coast to Florida.

These last few years, Edie has enjoyed just being at home watching curling, her Jets and her Jays. The highlight of her last years were when Les and Rick and the dogs came home and spent weeks with them at the house in Minnedosa. The aroma of freshly baked apple or rhubarb pies, home made Reece’s pieces and puffed wheat cake could always be found, as Edie loved to spoil her sons-in-law. She spoiled us all with her delicious home cooking!

Ken passed away in November of 2022, leaving an emptiness, but now we know that they are together again and that is comforting for our family.

White’s Funeral Home in care of arrangements. www. whitesfh.ca

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Announcement

Rolling River Festival of the Arts will be held in Minnedosa the week of March 18th, 2024 Entry deadline: January 17, 2024 Enter a solo, duet, trio or group in vocal (singing), musical theatre, piano, band instrumental, strings, dance, poetry, reading or speech.

For more info, check our Facebook page or email rollingriverfestival@gmail.com

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10 Rivers Banner December 15, 2023

Manitoba Government reminds ice fishers and outdoor enthusiasts to carefully evaluate ice conditions before heading onto ice Submitted

By Manitoba Government

Anglers Reminded to Clean, Drain and Dry Ice Fishing Equipment to Help Stop the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species: Moses The Manitoba government is reminding ice fishers and outdoor enthusiasts to carefully evaluate ice conditions before venturing onto Manitoba lakes and rivers due to the warmer than usual weather, Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources Minister Jamie Moses announced today.

“Manitoba has a lot to offer for those who enjoy winter activities like ice fishing, cross-country skiing and ice skating on our waterbodies, especially with the recent mild weather conditions,” said Moses. “We want to remind people to keep themselves and their families safe by thoroughly checking ice conditions, and by following local municipal rules, before they venture onto lakes and rivers.”

This time of year, especially in southern Manitoba, ice is still forming and could be dangerously thin.

“Check conditions often as you travel across the ice as ice thickness can vary from one location to the next,” said Moses.

In addition to protecting themselves, the minister noted ice fishers should also help protect the health of waterways by being proactive in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species.

“Winter does not prevent zebra mussels and other invasive species from spreading,” said Moses.

“That is why it is important to remove aquatic plants from water-related equipment, and to clean, drain and dry fishing gear before moving from one body of water to another.”

If fishers are unsure whether their gear has been properly decontaminated, the gear can be exposed to freezing temperatures, below -10 C for three consecutive days before it is moved to another waterbody.

“As the Manitoba government works collaboratively with other levels of government and affected stakehold-

SUBMITTED PHOTO

ers, we are hoping that the public understands that their actions play a key role in protecting our natural resources,” said Moses. “Working together, we can help keep each other safe while ensuring that outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Manitoba for generations to come.”

Centralized dispatch service for Conservation Officer service now operational City of Brandon thanked for exciting partnership

Submitted

By Manitoba Government A new 24-7 centralized dispatch service for Manitoba conservation officers is now operational, Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources Minister Jamie Moses announced here today.

“Conservation officers often work in remote areas protecting our natural resources and building relationships with communities,” said Moses, “This new communication system will provide a vital lifeline of support and increase officer safety while they are out doing their important work.”

The 24-7 dispatch service is provided through the Brandon Public-Safety Communication Centre, which also provides emergency dispatch services for seven police agencies and 192 fire departments throughout the province, as well as to Manitoba-based enforcement officers of the Canadian Wildlife Service.

“The City of Brandon is excited to partner with the Manitoba government by providing valuable publicsafety communications to conservation officers in the field,” said Robert Stewart, director of emergency communications, Brandon Public-Safety Communication Centre. “Officers having constant radio contact is a big step forward to keeping officers safe while they

Manitoba Government announces blue-ribbon infrastructure panel

The Manitoba government is creating a blue-ribbon infrastructure panel to ensure Manitobans get the roads and highways they need, Premier Wab Kinew and Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor announced here today at the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) fall convention.

“Our government is ready to partner with communities across the province to build the roads, bridges, highways, vertical infrastructure and water infrastructure of the future,” said Kinew. “This group will listen to voices across the province as we prioritize the projects that will grow our economy, create jobs and deliver for families. It is time to take the politics out of infrastructure development and start building up Manitoba.”

The blue-ribbon panel will be led by co-chairs Carly Edmundson, president and CEO of CentrePort Canada, and Scott Phillips, a councillor for the Rural Municipality of Sifton. Working with experts in the industry, these co-chairs will set the terms of reference for infrastructure projects in Manitoba, the premier said, adding more panel members will be announced at a later date. The panel will head up the Manitoba government’s infrastructure strategy to create jobs, support economic growth and help municipalities grow in the best way possible, said Kinew. The announcement is a critical step in the Manitoba government’s commitment to create 10,000 new jobs for Manitobans, the premier noted.

“After seven years of funding freezes and playing games with infrastructure spending, Manitobans have elected a government that listens to experts and works with communities,” said Naylor. “I am excited to get to work on the important project of building the infrastructure that Manitobans need.”

Submitted

By Manitoba Government

carry out their duties.”

The current contract is for a three-year period, with an option for a two-year extension, the minister noted.

“This exciting partnership with the City of Brandon has created a critical service for conservation officers that did not exist before,” said Moses. “We look forward to continued collaboration with municipalities across Manitoba.”

To report poachers and human-wildlife interactions, Manitobans can call the Conservation Officer Service’s Turn In Poachers (TIP) line toll-free at 1-800-7820076.

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SPORTS

December 15, 2023 Rivers Banner 11

Submitted Rivers Banner Eight different Jets found the back of the net, and 13 different players recorded a point as Rivers came out of Melita with an 8 - 5 win Saturday, December 9.

Joben Smith scored a goal and added three assists. Troy Heywood and Brock Paddock each had a goal and an assist.

Riley Boles, Gerald Kuculym, Kaden Sutherland, Kale Bomback, and Drayson Collyer also scored in the win.

The Jets are back on home ice on Saturday, Dec 16 at 7:30pm. when Miniota/Elkhorn comes to town.

Team staying alert and awaiting their turn for game play.

PHOTO BY JESSICA COULTER

By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

O

n Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, the Huskies lost against the Swan Valley Tigers with a score of 4 – 3. The game was played at the Hamiota Arena.

On Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023, the Huskies lost against the Neepawa Tigers with a score of 4 – 1. The game was played at the Hamiota Arena.

The Hamiota Huskies are now eighth in the Westman High School Hockey League.

Their next game will be played on Friday, Dec. 15 against the Dauphin Clippers at Credit Union Place. The Hamiota Huskies team is made up of players from Hamiota, Rivers, and Elton high schools ages fifteen to seventeen years old.

Meet the team: #4 - Reid Hutchings - D - age 15 #5 – Jayden Schoonbaert – F – age 15 #6 – Nathan Espenell – F – age 16 #7 – Sev Antonio – F – age 16 #8 – Chael Rozdeba – F – age 16 #9 – Brett Melnyk – F – age 17 #10 – Jaxen Dziver - F/D – age 16 #11 – Carson Smith - D – age 16 #12 – Harlen Bridges - F – age 15 #13 – Ethan King - F – age 17 #14 – Pierce Cords - F – age 16 #15 – Nicholas Lade - F – age 17 #16 – Landon Dmyterko - F – age 16 #18 – Peyton Tolton – D – age 17 #19 – William Janz – D – age 17 #21 – Carter Knight - F – age 16 #22 – Drayson Sheridan – F – age 16 #23 – Jack Oakden – F – age 16 Duncan McLean - F – age 14 #1 – Logan Bridges - G – age 16 #33 – Gavin Pomeroy – G – age 17

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12 Rivers Banner December 15, 2023

Rapid City Church Christmas Concert

By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

O

n Friday, Dec 8, the Rapid City Community Church held their fifteenth annual Christmas concert in Rapid City. Members of the youth group took turns narrating the Christmas story between songs.

Left to right are Steve van der Wal, Eddy Vanderdeen, Marshall Northam, Linda Jager, Denis Rondeau, Donna Baker.

PHOTOS BY WARREN SMALLWOOD

The cowboy message was delivered by Terry Baker.

His wife Donna is in the background on the right.