February 16, 2024

The polar opposite of a stressful day

Rapid City’s 15th Annual Fishing Derby

Bob Christie, Wildlife Association treasurer, checking the weights on all fish. That’s a good one!

What wonderful weather for a fishing derby. Rapid City and District Wildlife Association hosted their 15th annual fishing derby on February 10, 2024, from 10am to 2pm.

It was a wonderful turn out with 56 adult entries. There were 15 kids fishing for free as well. Each person competing in the derby was allowed up to three fish for their entry

into the competition. Entry included a free hotdog lunch. The winners of the kids fishing derby were: first Lily Turner with three fish weighing in at 2.1 pounds, second Emery Cronkite with one fish weighing 0.7 pounds and third Obrey Cronkite with one fish weighing 0.5 pounds. All the kids got prizes in the end. With all the donations, the kids each walked away with a couple items related to fishing such as lures.

continued on page 2

Top three kids for the fishing derby, Lily Turner, Emery Cronkite, and Obrey Cronkite.

Rapid City’s 15th Annual Fishing Derby

Continued from page 1

Adult winners were: First Pete Cronkite with two fish weighing 6.2 pounds won $300, second Chad McKinnon with two fish weighing 5.4 pounds won $200, and third Jaryn Orr with three fish weighing 4.5 pounds won $100. Jaryn Orr also won a separate prize for catching a walleye weighing 0.1 pound.

“Thank you to everyone that came out and all the volunteers that made

this event possible. See you all again next year,” Jaimie Richter, Rapid City and District Wildlife Association President, “Our first time back after three years and it was a fantastic turn out. It was great to have our river back after a three-year break.”

Thank you to the following for donating prizes for the kids, Timber Wilderness, Bakers Narrows Lodge, Striker Brands, Jo Brooks, and Brandon Home Hardware.

Submitted Rivers Banner

Marci Quane has been made the new Chief Ad ministrative Officer of Riverdale Municipality. She comes to the office from the RM of Oakview office in Oak River where she was the CAO of Oakview.

In addition to the experience gained at the RM of Oakview, she has worked in municipal government for many years. Her career started as a Recreation Director and later the Economic Development Officer for the RM of Pipestone.

After relocating to Brandon, she was awarded the opportunity to work as the Assistant CAO in Riverdale Mu nicipality in 2015 spending five years with the municipality.

Her family relocated to Rivers in 2016. Marci and her husband have enjoyed raising their chil dren in the community.

“To say I am excited for this new venture would be an understatement. I’ve continued to be heavily involved in the community and this position will allow me the oppor tunity to focus on Riverdale Municipality full-time. Our municipality has an abundance of potential and working together to promote a healthy, progressive municipality is something I am very passionate about. I look forward to working with the Mayor, Council, and Municipal staff, to provide quality, reliable service, and advance Council’s priorities. I look forward to reconnecting with so many familiar faces and thank the Mayor and

for providing me with the opportunity to make a difference in Riverdale Municipality,” says Marci. “On behalf of Mayor, Council and staff, we would like to welcome Marci Quane as our CAO at Riverdale Municipality. We look forward to working with Marci and wish her all the best in her new position”, says Heather Lamb, Mayor.

SUBMITTED

Council

Bob Christie congratulates first place winner Pete Cronkite.

Second place winner Chad McKinnon shaking hands with Bob Christie.

Jaryn Orr wins third place and receives winnings from Bob Christie.

Rivers Legion Ladies Auxiliary

By Lisa Smith Publicity

The regular monthly meeting of the Legion Ladies auxiliary was held January 24, 2024, in the Rivers Legion upper hall.

There were no new applications for membership this month.

A donation was made to the Rolling River Festival of the Arts.

The next regular meeting of the Rivers Legion Ladies Auxiliary will be held March 5, 2024.

Join us Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Rapid City Community ChuRCh

Sundays 10 a.m.

Children’s Church during the message Bible Study – Thursdays 7:30 p.m.

JESUS IS LORD

FAITHFULLY YOURS

Neil StrohScheiN

Your giftS; Your choice; Part ii

447 Edward Street ~ 204-328-7882

THE HAMIOTA DISTRICT HEALTH CENTRE FOUNDATION INC. BURSARY FUND

Invites 4th and 5th year students enrolled in a healthrelated program to apply for this $2000.00 bursary. Forms and requirements obtained from Vaughn Wilson vwilson@inetlinkwireless.ca or Bev Bennett bennett2@goinet.ca

DEADLINE: Mar. 31, 2024

From last weeks front page

If you read my column from two weeks ago, you will recall how I calculated the true value (in time and energy invested) of donations we make to a church or registered charity. You will also recall how much I value every donation that you share with your charity of choice.

Last week I offered some suggestions to help you set an overall giving goal for the year. This week I offer some suggestions on how to choose the charities you support. These are guidelines I follow when setting my giving goals for a new year.

First, I choose charities with whose core values, philosophies of service and objectives I fully agree. For example, when choosing a church to support, I look for one whose core beliefs are like my own. I want to be part of a congregation that is willing to use its resources to serve its community. And I want my donations to help build a faith community that will love, accept, and forgive others as God has loved, accepted, and forgiven them.

As a family, we also support organizations that fund cancer research and our local Humane Society-two charities working on causes about which we care deeply.

Second, I choose charities who are community focused. In an ideal world, every dollar I donate would be used to fund programs and services that are organized, managed, and staffed by community people who serve the needs of each community.

But that isn’t always possible; nor is it always practical. Donations for cancer research, for example, will be sent to the charity’s head office; from which they will be disbursed to fund research projects in Canada and beyond. If a cure or new treatment for one or more forms of cancer is discovered, all victims of cancer will benefit. So funds donated by people from this community will eventually benefit people from this community.

Third, as a former President and Treasurer of a recognized charity, I expect those I support to fully comply with Canada Revenue Agency regulations governing, recording, receipting and disbursing donor funds. Those rules are in place for a reason. Most didn’t exist until the mid 1980s, when allegations of moral failure and excessive use of donor funds on personal luxuries brought down American televangelist Jim Bakker and the PTL Club.

Bakker and three of his aides were charged with mail and wire fraud. Bakker was convicted and served six years of an eight-year (reduced from 45 year) prison sentence. The ripple effects of his conviction were felt through out the United States and in Canada.

To prevent a similar scandal from happening here, CRA strengthened regulations dealing with the governing bodies of charities--namely, who can serve as executive officers, who can sit on boards and committees and how executive and board members can avoid being charged with breach of trust or conflict of interest. CRA also made some changes to the annual report charities are required to file. These changes require charities to be more transparent when disclosing their sources of income and details of expenditures.

To some, the rules may seem excessive. But if they enable government overseers to stop potential cases of embezzlement or fraud, they are, in my view justified. Besides I see them as a hedge of protection for donors and for those who administer charitable funds.

Those who follow the rules have nothing to fear. Those who donate to such charities can do so knowing that what they give will be distributed to those who need it most.

Perspectives

Tundra

By Chad Carpenter

Over the past few weeks, I have had a variety of thoughts and emotions about the state of the world. I realize that my opinion doesn’t count for all that much and I have no expectations that many people will listen, but it makes one feel better if, every so often, they can shout out a few opinions. If you would like to do that, send us a letter to the editor.

• If the United States elects either Joe Biden or Donald Trump as president, I hate to think what will happen. Neither man should be president. Both are too old. Biden is showing signs of senility and Trump has other mental issues that are obvious. Both are too old and risky to carry the burden of President of the United States.

• The amount of money spent by political campaigns is obscene in the U.S. where politicians will spend hundreds of times the salary just to get elected.

• If you look at the net worth of presidents when they go into office and compare it with their net worth when they leave office, it seems they gather a lot of wealth from somewhere and it isn’t the salary.

• In the U.S., they elect every position from judge to dog catcher to state and national senators and house reps. How can you have an impartial judge who is elected? Might happen, but it’s questionable.

• It’s time to change the governing party in Canada. The Liberals have outworn their shelf life by a long way. Justin Trudeau isn’t half the man his father was and many of us who remember the senior Trudeau weren’t too happy with him.

• I am told there are two to three times the number of staff in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) as there are

Right in the Centre

Ken Waddell

Members Parliament (MPs). That makes no sense at all. lt leaves all the power in the PMO and very little in the parliament.

• So far, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew is doing a good job and I told him so when he visited Neepawa a couple of weeks ago. I had a good visit with him that day. My experience with Wab Kinew hasn’t been extensive, but every time I have met him, it has been good. Kinew has been very polite and appears to care about the person he is talking with.

• The PC Manitoba Party is about to elect a new leader. Hopefully they will actually get an election and not an acclamation or coronation. The party hierarchy needs a major overhaul, but that would be more work than anybody really wants to take on. Their head office has been in a shambles for many years now. It’s in a poor location, understaffed and sometimes poorly managed.

• The NDP have a major advantage in that when they have a provincial convention, about one third of the delegates are appointed by unions and funded to attend the convention. PC delegates have to pay their own way and having attended a few conventions myself, I know it takes a lot of time and money. The results are often disappointing and frustrating.

• Considering how little pay party leaders get and how much crap they

have to put up wth, it’s a wonder anybody runs for the office.

• On a different political level, I just read that Canada Post is on track to run up huge losses again this year I just got an email from a man named Alex at Canada Post asking me to use Canada Post to reach customers. Here is what I told him, “I am a local newspaper publisher and I just want to say that Canada Post deserves to lose a half $billion a year if they treat all their customers the way they treat newspapers. I have taken almost all my business away from Canada Post and I should have done it sooner.”

• Canada Post has fantastic local staff. The Postmasters do a great job in my experience. The problem is everything is centralized and Canada Post can’t get parcels or letters from one town to the next in a timely fashion.

• That’s about enough complaining for this week. I hope you all have a good week. There’s only so much an individual can do and may God bless you and yours as you do your part to make the world a better place.

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 Banner & Press staff.

Not my habit…yet

Friday night supper with family has become somewhat of a habit, if our schedules allow. It gives us a couple of hours of catching up, home cooked food (most times), and a chance for the great grand to become comfortable with the old lady who has a black dog, and a stash of chocolate! The girls arrived first, and as we were discussing weekend plans, I causally mentioned that I was going to the hockey game later that evening. ‘With who?’ was the immediate question. I explained that I had noted on social media that Minnedosa was playing here against the Farmers, and I decided to go. There was a moment of stunned silence. When her partner arrived moments later, almost the first thing she mentioned was that I was planning to go to the hockey game. An immediate ‘you are going with?’ followed, and the reply was the same. By myself. Again there was a moment of stunned silence. The rink is two blocks away, I explained, and I would simply walk down and watch the game. I will admit that there was a note of surprise in the ticket takers voice when she acknowledged me! It was a good game from where I sat, I was rooting for the visitors, the gentleman coaching is a friend of mine. Will I go again? Possibly. And I can’t wait to see the kid’s reactions when I tell them what kind of a tattoo I’m getting – and where!!

I’m days away from turning 78. I have adjusted to living alone. I am not afraid of anything. (Well, I did have an increased heart rate when Arie, my faithful watchdog, launched off the bed at three of the AM barking a warning at I have no clue!)I have nothing to lose by being myself. Life is precious, time is fleeting, and so I am making some lifestyle changes. For a starter, I cancelled my tv channels. That’s not as life changing as I thought, for I have a very smart tv set and can watch countless shows for free, and I have kept Netflix. I have also stopped crushing candy, a game in which I can easily lose hours. I have become adept at watching the news on my computer, and finding challenging words games to play. At least I’m learning!

I am slowly changing the foods I eat. My doctor’s question of whether I wished to control borderline high cholesterol with diet or tablets was, for me, a no brainer. Diet it is. I have eliminated a vast portion of the snacks I felt I needed. Eat at home more. Drink more water. We’ll see..I discovered back in November that I have a lazy right leg, and the left leg got tired of carrying an unfair amount of the load, and a little muscle right behind the kneecap went into full revolt. I am doing my physio exercises, and I am improving. I have always relied on daily activity and walking as my full regimen of exercise. So, habit of the past or not, I am stretching those muscles and strengthening that right leg. Hockey games though?

Never too old to learn a new habit.

Lon Schwartz (Chief of Police)

Rivers Police Service

In recent events, a series of incidents unfolded within the community of Rivers:.

1. Farm Resident Reunited with Dog: A rural resident reported that his dog had gone missing from his farm, only to return home shortly thereafter.

2. Investigation into Database Hacking: Police received a report concerning a Rivers youth allegedly involved in hacking into a database. Authorities are actively investigating the situation to determine if any personal information has been compromised, underscoring the importance of cybersecurity in our digital age.

3. Good Samaritan Returns Lost Wallet: A wallet, turned in by a good Samaritan, found its way back to its owner after a brief period. This act of kindness exemplifies the community spirit prevalent in Rivers.

4. Well-Being Check Referral: Following a request from a Brandon agency, police conducted a wellbeing check on a Rivers resident. However, it was discovered that the individual had relocated several months ago, redirecting the matter to the Brandon Police for further attention.

5. Scam Alert: Farm Hand Relocation Scheme: Police received reports of a man posing as a farm hand seeking relocation funds in advance. Investigations revealed a pattern of similar scams across the prairie provinces, emphasizing the need for vigilance and caution when dealing with such requests.

6. Civil Dispute Notification: Authorities were informed of a civil matter concerning a disagreement over a family court order. Police stress the importance of early intervention in potential conflicts to

prevent escalation.

7. Arrest of Rivers Resident: A Rivers female with an unendorsed warrant was located and arrested. She is scheduled to appear in Brandon court next month to address a previous charge of impaired driving, highlighting the ongoing efforts to uphold law and order in our community.

8. Illegal Dumping: The landfill operator reported

Police warning to the public

Lon Schwartz (Chief of Police)

Rivers Police Service

The Rivers Police Service is issuing a warning to locals amidst a surge in scams that prey on unsuspecting individuals, putting them at risk of financial ruin and identity theft. With technology evolving rapidly, scammers have adapted cunning tactics to exploit vulnerable citizens in the community. Here’s what you need to watch out for:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scams: Utilizing AI, scammers are crafting convincing emails, texts, and even deepfake videos and voice simulators to deceive victims, posing as friends, relatives, or employers to extract personal information.

2. Phone Scams: From robocalls to QR code schemes, scammers are leveraging smartphone capabilities to defraud individuals. Exercise caution with unsolicited calls or messages, and never share personal or financial details.

3. Text Scams: Beware of fraudulent texts impersonating reputable companies or government agencies. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or divulging sensitive information.

4. Romance Scams: Fraudulent online relationships lead to financial exploitation. Be wary of sharing personal or financial details with unknown individuals online.

5. Online Purchase Scams: Counterfeit products and fraudulent listings abound in online marketplaces. Verify sellers’ legitimacy before making purchases.

6. Employment Scams: Fake job postings and check fraud target job seekers. Exercise skepticism and research opportunities thoroughly.

7. Gift Card Scams: No reputable entity will ask for payments via gift cards. If someone asks to provide them with gift cards… end all communication.

The Rivers Police Service stresses the importance of vigilance and education in combating scams. By staying informed and cautious, individuals can protect themselves from falling victim. Report any suspicious activity promptly to the Rivers Police

that someone left 3-4 black garbage bags outside the entrance to the landfill. Animals tore open the bags, scattering the contents.

These incidents underscore the collaborative efforts between residents and law enforcement to maintain the safety and well-being of our community. The Rivers Police Department remains committed to serving and protecting the community.

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Notable senior health concerns

Submitted

Metro Creative

The human body changes as it ages. While certain conditions are commonly associated with aging, some individuals may be surprised to learn of the more common health conditions that can affect

seniors. The World Health Organization says one in six people will be 60 or older by 2030. With such a large portion of the population on the cusp of turning 60, it makes sense for individuals to familiarize themselves with the more notable issues affecting seniors.

Cognitive decline

A certain degree of memory loss is a natural component of aging. Forgetting where you left your keys or experiencing difficulty putting a name to a face can be a random and frustrating occurrence. However, dementias, like Alzheimer’s disease, are not a side effect of aging. As many as one in five seniors experiences mental health issues that are not associated with aging, and it helps to learn the early warning signs of dementia. Such recognition may compel individuals to seek treatment that can slow the progression of the disease.

Osteoarthritis

Valentine’s Day and Flowers

Submitted

By Patricia Hanbidge

The most popular day to give flowers is without a doubt on Valentine’s Day which is February 14th. It is one of the busiest days for florists, candy shops, lingerie shops and restaurants. It is “expected” to give and receive flowers, chocolate, to go for a romantic date and more!

Aches and pains may come with aging, and often can be attributed to osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of arthritis, according to the Mayo Clinic. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears away over time. It is progressive and cannot be reversed, but maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help alleviate

During Victorian times, flowers were given special meanings and small bouquets would be given to sweethearts to demonstrate love. The rose has been forever a symbol of love, beauty and peace and evidence of cultivation of roses dates back to over 5000 years ago. Over Valentines over 250 million roses will be harvested and bring in over two billion dollars in sales!

If you received cut flowers from your valentine, then here are a few tips to prolong their life and beauty. Begin with a clean vase. If your container was previously used, then wash it with hot, soapy water to remove any debris and destroy bacteria and fungi that might shorten the life of your cut flowers. Cut off the bottom half inch of your flowers to aid in water uptake. Ensure all foliage is removed beneath the water line. When your flowers begin to wilt, just give them a quick recut to ensure the stems are able to take water up to the blooms and rewash and refill the vase with clean water as well as more of the floral preservative if you have some.

There are many other popular choices of flowers to give on Valentine’s Day. Miniature roses are a popu- lar choice as a planted gift for this special day. They need bright light so place them in a south or west facing window. Miniature roses need a con sistent moisture supply so ensure you water them when the surface of the media is dry to the touch. Fertilize weekly with a high phosphorus fertilizer to keep them blooming. Watch them closely as they tend to get spider mites very easily.

One other popular plant at this time of year is the azalea. They are beautiful plants and tend to bloom for long periods of time. They prefer bright light but a cool location with temperatures around 60 F (15 C) being just about perfect. Water azaleas thoroughly whenever the service of the media feels dry. When they have finished blooming they are usually discarded.

Remember that our homes are not really welcoming to plants that would normally live in areas with brighter light and higher humidity. Our plants in our houses are stressed during our long winter months so ensure you are giving them the care they deserve for brightening up our lives!

One needs to go no further than your nearest grocer to find many options to cheer your home. There are cheery little pots of miniature daffodils that give even the darkest winter thoughts hope! There are also primroses available which are available in a myriad of colours. A bonus with primroses is once we truly get spring these can be planted out in the garden in a partial shade area. Ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter!

pain and improve joint function.

Cataracts and refractive errors

It should come as no surprise to most that the eyes change as the body ages. Refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia can make objects look blurry when viewed, says the National Eye Institute. Cataracts, which are a clouding of the eye’s natural lenses, affect about 20 percent of people age 65 and older, according to the American Geriatrics Society, while the National Eye Institute says half of all people over age 80 will get them. Cataract removal surgery and prescription eyeglasses can help.

Type 2 diabetes

American Senior Communities reports that it’s estimated 25 percent of adults age 65 and older have type 2 diabetes. Unchecked diabetes can lead to a host of ailments, including vision problems, mobility issues, kidney damage, and increased risk for heart disease or stroke. Many people can manage type 2 diabetes with diet and exercise.

Heart disease

The National Institute on Aging says adults age 65 and older are more likely than younger people to suffer from cardiovascular disease that affects the heart, blood vessels or both. Conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol need to be properly managed, and diet and exercise is important throughout life to avoid developing heart disease in later years.

Balance issues

Balance issues that can lead to falls are a major concern for seniors. According to HealthinAging.org, many things can adversely affect balance. These include nerve and brain problems, vision troubles, diabetes, arthritis, inner ear problems, and even dehydration. Dizziness or balance problems should be addressed, as there are serious health risks associated with falls.

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Turkey burger casserole Heart Health Awareness Month

Ingredients:

6 large parsnips, cut into matchsticks 1 tbsp canola oil

6 large carrots, cut into matchsticks 1 tbsp chili powder 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 tbsp canola oil 1 med onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 lb ground lean turkey 4 cups baby spinach canola oil cooking spray 2 eggs, whisked 1 can 15oz canned diced tomatoes, drained

Directions:

1) Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C).

2) To prepare frites: Toss parsnip and carrot matchsticks with canola oil, chili powder and pepper. Set aside.

3) In large, non-stick skillet over medium heat, sauté canola oil, onion, garlic and turkey for 5 minutes or until turkey is browned. Add tomatoes and spinach and sauté 5 more minutes.

4) Mist 1.5-quart baking dish with canola oil cooking spray. Take mixture off heat, stir in eggs and pour into baking dish. Stack frites on top of turkey mixture and bake 30 to 40 minutes or until frites are golden and crispy. Serve.

I beg you… Bear with one another in love

Submitted

By Dianne Kowalchuk

The invitation is out for everyone to join the 2024 World Day of Prayer as we celebrate the theme “I beg you … bear with one another in love” based on Ephesians 4: 1-3. A committee of Christian women of Palestine have prepared the service this year. We are encouraged to reflect on the history and challenges faced by this area as citizens struggle for security, peace, and independence. This is an opportunity to examine a geographical area that is home to the birth of Christianity.

World Day of Prayer (WDP) is an international, inter-church event that began around 100 years ago bridging social, geographic, and political barriers in 146 countries. Together we pursue justice, peace, and reconciliation by standing together in prayer and action.

Offerings received through the World Day of Prayer transform our prayers into action in the form of project grants empowering women and children in Canada and throughout the world. All regions share in the grants, with consideration given to greatest need. Through WDP offerings, the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada (WICC) has distributed around 3 million dollars for small projects in the past 40 years. The vision is to restore hope for women and children touched by injustice. As an example, in 2023, $2,000 was granted to Dignity House in Winnipeg for transition programming for detoxed women. Further afield, WICC made a grant of $5,000 to an organization in Guatemala to provide support for children surviving sex trafficking. Your generosity matters!

World Day of Prayer services will take place in communities large and small across Canada. In Rivers, the service will be held in Rivers United Church on Friday, March 1, at 7 pm. Women from the United, Community, Anglican, and Catholic churches will deliver the service. Refreshments will follow. You are invited to attend! For more information, contact Dianne Kowalchuk at 204328-7690 or dckowalchuk@ hotmail.com.

St James Anglican Church pancake and sausage supper

By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

On Tuesday, February 13, from 4:30 to 6:30pm, the St James Anglican Church served up their delicious annual Shrove Tuesday pancake and sausage supper. The event was a fundraiser and social gathering for the church, a chance to meet more of the community.

There were a variety of extra toppings offered to put on the pancakes including rhubarb, raspberry, saskatoon, and blueberry jam, maple, and sugar free syrup. There was also cool whip and a variety of chocolate toppings. All the extra toppings were donated.

The turn out was great, despite the snow. The church ended up serving about 85 people. There were a dozen volunteers involved in the planning and executing of this great meal and some children helped too. “Thanks to all the volunteers and those that came for supper,” says Jean Ryall, church event organizer.

Are those pancakes or works of art?!

Tasty.

It doesn’t take a genius to figure out our classifieds section is one of the best places to look for available jobs!

PHOTO BY JEAN RYALL

Rivers United Church

Hal Sveistrup Remembered in Canada’s Parliament

Submitted Office of Dan Mazier

On February 12, 2024, Dan Mazier, Member of Parliament for Dauphin-Swan River-Neepawa, gave a Members Statement in the House of Commons on February 9 to honour the life of Hal Sveistrup

“It was my honour to stand in the House today and pay tribute to Hal and his contributions to the community of Rivers” said Mazier.

The Member Statement that Mazier gave in the House of Commons read:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honour the life of Hal Sveistrup. As a lifelong educator, Hal began teaching at the age of 19, leaving a lasting mark on countless young minds over his 35-year career.

Hal’s larger-than-life persona and commitment to community defined him. Throughout his life, he contributed to countless organizations, including the Rivers United Church and local hockey leagues.

Hal was an avid outdoorsman. He loved fishing, hunting and trapping. This passion of Hal’s was instrumental in building the Rivers Game and Fish Association as a founding member.

However, above his love for the outdoors, family was the most important to Hal. He and his wife Barb created a beautiful family of four children, 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

“Just do your best,” Hal often advised, a motto he lived by wholeheartedly.

My thoughts are with his family and all those he impacted throughout his remarkable life.

Rest easy Hal, you will be missed.

Help Wanted Announcement

Qualifications

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Preferred

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License

The successful applicant will:

• work effectively under pressure, within defined timeframes and with a variety of people in a team environment

• work well independently, be flexible, adjust to changing work assignments and deal with and maintain confidential information

• complete and maintain WHMIS certification

Training will be provided to the successful applicant.

Salary as per C.U.P.E. Collective Agreement: Cleaner $18.52 per hour

For further information please contact Mr. Fred Scott, Maintenance Supervisor at 204-867-2754 Ext. 239 fscott@rrsd.mb.ca

Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at 12:00 noon

Applicants are requested to submit a covering letter with a comprehensive resume, addressing the stated qualifications and naming three work related references to the following: Sarah Woychyshyn

Administrative Assistant, Human Resources

Rolling River School Division PO Box 1170 Minnedosa, MB R0J 1E0

Phone: 867-2754 Fax: 867-2037

E-Mail: swoychyshyn@rrsd.mb.ca

Thank you to all applicants for their interest in Rolling River School Division. Only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

Employment is conditional upon an acceptable Criminal Record and Child Abuse Registry Check.

GEORGE KROEGER

SEPT. 19, 1928 - FEB. 7, 2024

On February 7, 2024 at the age of 95 passed away peacefully with his family by side.

Born on Sept 19th, 1928 in Herbert, SK then quickly moved to Blue Ridge, AB and then Namaka, AB. The 3rd of 11 children. George kicked off his incredible journey soon after moving from Alberta to the family farm in the Oakleigh (Oakview) Manitoba District. Living approximately half way between the towns of Rivers and Rapid City, MB on that family farm.

With the love of family, sports (mostly fastball), hard farm work, and even harder carpentry construction work. He also LOVED music and self taught himself to play many musical instruments including the banjo, steel guitar, acoustic guitar, violin and even the mouth organ.

After he finished school he worked as a caterpillar operator for the Highways, then worked at the former Rivers air base as the carpenter foreman for a number of years. After retirement from the Military Air Base, he went into full time house building…and upon his 70th birthday his sons made a video of all the houses, garages, and even apartment blocks in Brandon and the Rivers area and found 38 house related buildings that he built from the footings right up and including the roofs and shingling.

In 1952 George married the love of his life Katie Fast and together they created their beautiful family of 3 boys Garry, Bill (Cathy), Dale (Kelli). From them there were now 2 grandchildren Ashley (Rick) and Kelsey (Kyle); 3 great grandchildren Liam, Anna and Kendall; and 2 step-granddaughters Jessica and Julie.

George engaged in everything from playing music with a band and then with musical wife Katie of 71 years at home, also playing fastball, building/repairing carpentry related jobs. He even made all the family urns, including his own. He LOVED gardening and especially starting his tomato plants off early. Some years he would grow as many as 50 tomato plants in the summer starting them indoors and with that he usually had tomatoes growing on them as soon as March. He also served as Rivers town councillor for 8 years.

Goerge was predeceased by his parents George Sr. and Katherina Kroeger; brothers Peter (Helen), Edwin, and Henry (Selma); and brothers in-law Tom Johnson, John Krahn, and Eric Martens.

Besides his immediate family, George is lovingly remembered by his siblings Helen, Katie (Bill), Margaret, Hertha, John (Mavis), Jake (Lynn), and Marion; and numerous nieces and nephews.

We would like to give a special thank you to the Riverdale Hospital and all their staff as well as the Brandon General Hospital and their staff.

In lieu of flowers we would be grateful for donations to be made in George’s memory to the Rivers United Church, Box 444, Rivers, MB, R0K 1X0; Royal Canadian Legion Branch #75, Box 37, Rivers, MB, R0K 1X0; Riverdale Health Centre Palliative Care, payable to Prairie Mountain Health, Box 428, Rivers, MB, R0K 1X0; or to the Riverdale Municipality, designated to the Riverdale Community Garden, Box 520, Rivers, MB, R0K 1X0.

A celebration of life service will be announced in April 2024.

Campbell Funeral Home, Hamiota are in care of the arrangements. (204) 764-2744

JOHN VINCENT KLASSEN

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather on Friday, February 2, 2024 at the Rivers Personal Care Home.

Dad was predeceased by his parents, George and Anna Klassen, siblings, Dietrich, Anne, George, Katherine and two infants. Left to mourn his passing are his loving wife Linda, children Sandra (Randy), Linda (Florin), Bob (Susan), Sher (Eric), and Tracy (Dave) along with 14 Grandchildren, 14.5 Great Grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Dad was born in Roland, Manitoba in 1933 and was the youngest child. His family remained in that area until finally settling in Rivers in 1940. He married Linda in 1971, a marriage that lasted 52 years. Most of their years were spent in Brandon, but after retirement finally moving just outside of Shilo, where they developed their 5 acres to make it home. They fulfilled their dream of country living. They planted hundreds of trees, created flower gardens and of course, never ending vegetable gardens. They were so proud to share their home and land with anyone that came to visit. There was always an invitation for a walk around to check the progress of a tree or a vegetable, and a story to go with it.

Dad worked for Paul’s Hauling for 33 years. He was a dedicated employee that had great respect for his company and the industry. He spent many years long-haul trucking and then moved into the dispatch office where he could be home every night. He would proudly proclaim to all of us that he had driven more miles backwards than we would ever drive forwards.

Dad loved God. He would pour over scripture and was inspired by God’s word. Dad was active in his church and always dug in to help whether it was driving the church bus, leading bible study or volunteering with youth. He never hesitated to lead a prayer or say a prayer. He was confident that at the end of his natural life, he would rest with Jesus in Heaven.

Dad loved his family. He cherished time with kids and grandkids, never passing up an opportunity to spend time with any one of us. No event wasn’t worth the trip to take part in a grandchild’s activity, always wearing the brightest smile. He spoke of each of us proudly with true admiration of the people we became.

Dad spent the last 9 years of his life in Rivers Personal Care Home, where he created an extended family. Not enough can be said of the care and love that he received in his final years. The family is so grateful for the people who have ensured his comfort, laughed with him, and enjoyed his stories over the years. A funeral service for John will be held at Rivers Community Church, 447 Edward St. Rivers, MB., on Friday, February 16, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of John may be made to the Riverdale PCH Recreation Department, 512 Quebec St. Box 428, Rivers, MB, R0K 1X0.

Arrangements are in care of Brockie Donovan Funeral & Cremation Services, (204)-727-0694.

GARY ALFRED ALLEN SEPTEMBER 9, 1958 – JANUARY 24, 2024

Gary Allen, passed away on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, in Rivers Manitoba. Gary began his career in Brandon before relocating to Calgary, where he worked for a drywall company as a delivery driver. Later, he returned to Brandon and became an integral part of Conklin Shows and North American Midway for over 30 years until 2017, when he suffered a massive stroke.

Outside of work, Gary had a passion for hunting and fishing. Above all, Gary cherished spending time with his family, creating countless memories filled with laughter and love.

Gary is survived by his sisters, Shirley Fleury and Linda Allen, and his brothers, Bill, Jim, and Tom (Shelley). He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and extended family members. Gary was predeceased by his parents, Bob and Mary, and his brother, Ken. A Celebration of Gary’s Life will be held at a later date.

Condolences: www.memorieschapel.com

Riding Mountain Progressive Conservative Association Annual General Meeting for year-ending 2023, via Zoom & Teleconference Options.

Monday, March 11, 7:00 pm

All constituency PC members in good standing wishing to participate are asked to pre-register by noon, Thursday, March 7 by contacting Judy Snitynsky, 204-773-6347 Meeting participation information will be provided upon registration.

The family of Fred Smith would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to family and friends and the wonderful community of Rivers and Area.

Special thanks to Dr Nowosad, the staff at Hamiota Health Care Centre and Wawanesa Health Care Centre. Many thanks to the Rivers Legion Branch #75 and to the Ladies Auxiliary for the wonderful lunch. We wish to thank Memories Chapel and to the Rivers Cemetery staff for making this journey just a bit easier.

Dad will be missed by all who knew him. Forever loved and never forgotten. Marilyn, Yvonne, Dwayne and families

On behalf of Richard Allen and family, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Rivers Palliative Care staff and Dr. Nowosad for the outstanding care and kindness shown to Gerri and family during her hospitalization. We would also like to thank everyone for the cards and the meat platters.

947-1691 for more information. See www.mcna.com under the “Types of Advertising” tab for more details.

SEASONAL HIRING? NEED DRIVERS? Having an AGM?

Have your blanket classified ads seen in the 31 Member Newspapers which are seen in over 368,000+ homes in Manitoba. Now booking Winter and Spring advertising for 2024. Please Call THIS NEWSPAPER NOW to book, or call MCNA at (204) 947-1691 for more details or to book ads. MCNA - Manitoba Community Newspapers Association. www.mcna.com

Join Keyes Loyal Orange Lodge #1755, Newdale L.O.L #1533, Winnipeg Golden West L.O.L #2311.Info: newdale1533@ gmail.com . Since 1795. God Save The King!

SPORTS

9U Tournament results at Elton Community Centre

Huskies players are always cool under pressure

By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

The Friday, February 9, game of REMH Renegades and the Huskies was postponed due to bad road conditions. The rescheduling of the game is to be determined at a later date.

On Tuesday, February 13, the Huskies played Virden Golden Bears at 8pm in Virden. It was a battle to the very end. In the first the Bears and the Huskies both found the back of the net twice with a score of 2-2 heading into the second. The Bears scored one goal in the second. The Huskies fought back with a third goal in the third. The game headed into overtime with a 3-3 score. It was back and forth until finally the Huskies prevailed and scored their fourth goal of the night defeating the Virden Bears with a score of 4-3.

Their next game will be played on Friday, February 16 at 8pm against the B/S/R Falcons in Birtle.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Left - Winners A side Ninga Silverwolves: #2 Oscar Black, #3 Morgan Duerksen, #4 Noah Hammond, #5 Sullivan Paschke, #12 Hunter Huus, #16 Ella Parrott, #20 Noh Habtemaryam, #23 Alex Harp, #24 Cole Whetter, #26 Joe Hutchinson, #35 Evan Kroeker, #38 Jaydon Pugh, #39 Seth Friesen, #40 Scott Thiessen, #41 Emerson Reimer, and #42 Milo Leitner.

Top - Winners B side Forrest Kings: #10 Alex Major, #29 Nino Barcellona, #6 Aria Rothnie, #15 Briar Small, #19 Cale Unrau, #4 Elliot Chudley, #14 Jaxson Fouillard, #13 Jordyn Blancos, #11 Knox Ewasiuk, #31 Levi Meagher, #27 Linkin Fulham, #22 Mason Woloshen, #17 Oliver Bouchard, #23 Ruby Cummings-Ursel, #9 Tessa White, and #18 Theodore Bouchard.

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Forrest 9U Kings would like to thank all that donated to their tournament.

SPORTS

U15 Rivers Jets are in the playoffs

Submitted By Crystal Bourdin

On February 2, the U15 Rivers Jets headed west to Yorkton, Saskatchewan. They took in the HAAS Nissan U15A Heartbreaker Tournament. While it was a Yorkton Tournament most games were played in a near by town called Theodore. Friday saw lots of hockey with Yorkton Terriors 4-0 over Regina Falcons, Martensville Villians 9-4 over Clavet Cougars, Battleford Barons beating Regina Buffalos 8-3, and the Rivers Jets coming up with a 6-3 win over South Winnipeg Kings.

The coaches, team and the parents that could come lodged in the Windy Acres Bed and Breakfast just west of Yorkton on Hwy 10. Ken and the ladies were fantastic hosts over the weekend fuelling the players with hearty homemade breakfasts each morning. They were also available to feed you throughout the remainder of the meals if you so chose. Definitely a place to check out if you need to book a room or 12.

Saturday, February 3, was a busy day and finished out the round robins. Regina Buffalos lost to Martensville Villians 9-3, Clavet Cougars losing 8-3 to Battleford Barons, Regina Falcons lost to Rivers Jets 5-2, Yorkton Terriors lost to South Winnipeg Kings 8-1.

Clavet Cougars went on to beat Regina Buffalos 6-4, Regina Falcons beat South Winnipeg Kings 3-1, Martinsville

squeaking a win out in the last seconds of play over the Battleford Barons 5-4 and the Rivers Jets suffered a hard loss of 14-0 against Yorkton Terriors.

Sunday brought on the battle for the banners. D side saw South Winnipeg battling the Regina Buffalos who came out on top with an 8-2 win. C side was Regina Falcons playing the Clavet Cougars with the Cougars taking that win. B side the Battleford Barons had the win over Rivers Jets. A side was a hard-fought nail biter of a game with Yorkton losing 4-3 to the Martinsville Villians.

It was a great weekend of hockey, seeing new teams and people. The hosts were fantastic, super friendly, had great prizes with one of the team moms taking home the grand prize off the draw tables.

Rivers U15 Jets are now onto the playoffs with the firstround best of three started Wednesday February 14, 2024, at home against Minnedosa Bombers, puck dropped at 8pm. The second game of the series will be played on Friday, February 16 in Minnedosa.

We really want to thank all the Sponsors who helped us: Mr. T’s Services, HTA, BDO, Lindsey Roels Nursery School, Allie Frose Century 21, Jim Hillis RV, Nutrien Ag, Redline Transport, Harry and Joan Airey, ValleyView Ag, Richmond Survey, Sioux Valley Gaming, and Dakota Tiwahe Services.

It’s playoff time!!

Submitted Rivers Banner

In the final game of the regular season, Joben Smith scored three times and added two assists. Brock Paddock had two goals and two assists, while Kale Bomback found the back of the net twice as the Jets ended the season with an 8-5 win in Wawanesa Saturday night, February 10.

With the win the Jets finish third in the West with a 13 and 5 record.

The first game of the playoffs took place February 13, game one of the West Division Quarterfinals. The puck dropped at 8:30pm at the Riverdale Community Centre.

Keaton Moore banged home a rebound with 2:17 remain ing in the 3rd period as a short staffed Jets team ground out a 2-1 game one win over Melita to take a 1-0 lead in the best of three.

Moore opened the score on a second period power play goal. Riley Lamb stood tall in the crease stopping 35 of 36 shots put his way. Game 2 goes in Melita Saturday night at 8pm.

PHOTOS

PHOTOS

Enjoying the recreation room at the Windy Acres Bed and Breakfast during down time between games.

Team photo: Cameron Schoonbaert, Kayden Elliot, Jesse Bourdin, Clay Munz, Jillian Schoonbaert, Nathan Hillis, Chase Airey, Samuels Rivas, David Waldner, Duncan McLean, Kirk Bayes, Aaron Roles, Coby Burt, Rynan Taylor. Missing from team photo are Stella Roulette and Corbin Munz.

Warming up for Friday’s game against the South Winnipeg Kings.

Alastair McFadden takes a face off against Melita in the game one victory.

Bake sale fundraiser for Rivers Sr. Youth Group

By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

On Sunday, February 11, the Rivers Sr. Youth Group held a bake sale fundraiser. The fundraiser was organized by the group to raise funds to contribute to the cost for 27 youth members wanting to attend Youth Quake.

Youth Quake is a youth conference being held at the end of April, hosted by Briercrest College in Saskatchewan. There will be engaging seminars, concerts, sports tournaments, paintball, and so much more for the group to enjoy.

Rivers Sr. Youth Group is based out of Rivers Community Church. The group includes kids in grades 9 - 12, from Rivers, Forrest, and Brandon. The group meets twice a month during the school year, usually on Saturday evenings, with one of the meetings being an activity night and the other one being a Bible study. Events are run by adult volunteers. Liesel Krahn is the group administrator. If anyone in grades 9 – 12 is interested in joining Rivers Sr. Youth Group, they are welcome to attend. If you need more information, please contact Liesel Krahn at lieselkrahn@gmail.com.

PHOTO BY JESSICA COULTER

Left to right are youth club members Dani Ottenbreit, Serena Lelonde, Bethany Krahn, Jillian Hamm, Mia Lepp, Sarah Krahn, and R.J. Mitchell standing in front of a table of baked goods they made themselves.