February 9, 2024 by Rivers Banner

Friday, February 9, 2024 • Vol.116 No. 20 • Rivers, Manitoba

Jessica Coulter

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February 24, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. • DLMS • Neepawa Ag Complex

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Sweeping the competition aside Lenore Open Bonspiel

U15 RIVERS JETS WIN TOURNAMENT P11

Winners of the A event, left to right Lesli Burke, Rob Curtis, Travis Hunter, and Willy Daniel.

By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

ixteen rinks entered in the three-event bonspiel in Lenore for the three-day tournament. The events started on February 1 and ran until February 3. Travis Hunter rink won the A event. The full crew included Lesli Burke, Rob Curtis, Travis Hunter, and Willy Daniel. Naomi Best rink won the B event, with Ty Nykoliation,

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Ellie Slimmon, Ricki Hill, and Naomi Best on the team. Tyler Strachan rink won the C event, with Julie Hole, Serena Strachan, Tyler Strachan, and Kennidy Routledge on the team. A supper was planned by the community for each day of the event. Volunteers helped prepare and serve ham and scalloped potatoes on Thursday, a roast beef supper on Friday and a turkey supper on Saturday. continued on page 2...

READY FOR VALENTINE’S DAY? P7

2 Rivers Banner February 9, 2024

Lenore Open Bonspiel

continued from page 1

The organizers would like to thank all the donors Allen and Brenda Hill, Arnold and Roberta Bailey, Barry and Kathy Routledge, Boston Pizza, Brierwood Creek Café and Grill, Cargill, Chicken Chef, Core Ag, Corex, Erco, Fountain Tire, FoxTail Hauling, Fusion Credit Union, Geordie and Maryanne MacWhitter, Gerald Heapy, Greg and Lynn Alexander, Guild Insurance, Heartland Livestock, Highway 21, Irene Draper, JGL, J&L Seeds, Kenton Redferns, Kingston Midstream, Larry and Jeanette Logan, MacDonalds Poultry, Murray and Jeanette Routledge, Orville Bailey, P&H, Piston Ring, RCL Texas Holdem, Rea and Linda Kinnaid, Renards Meat Services, RLG Construction, Robert and Dianne Alexander, Routledge Oilfield, Sparks Sand and Gravel, Strike Welding specialties, Sunrise Credit Union, Tim and Cheryl Hill, Tralle Works Ltd, Tundra Oil and Gas, Valleyview Co-op, Virden Ag, Virden Animal Hospital, Virden Ford, Virden Mainline Motors, Whyte’s Lumber, Woodworth Dodge, Woodworth Electric, and Woodworth Trucking. “Huge thank-you to all the volunteers that make our small-town bonspiel work. Our great ice crew at the rink and all the wonderful meals that were served at our hall were very appreciated,” Tannis Gardner.

Curl with style and finesse. It’s all about the form.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA COULTER

With the right curling technique, you can really rock and roll.

Winners of B event left to right Julie Hole , Serena Strachan ,Tyler Strachan, and Kennidy Routledge.

Westoba open house collaboration By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

T Winners of B event left to right Ty Nykoliation, Ellie Slimmon, Ricki Hill, and Naomi Best.

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Leap Year!

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he open house was held on Thursday, January 25 at 5:30pm at the Rivers Legion. Westoba wants all members to play an active role in shaping the story of the potential merger between Assiniboine Credit Union, Caisse Financial Group, and Westoba Credit Union. The event was for Westoba members only. There was a 30 -minute presentation diving deeper into why they are exploring the merger, followed by a question-and-answer period. The remaining time was for one-on-one time with executives, senior management, and board members to ask questions and provide feedback about Collaboration MB. “The Open House in Rivers went well. A good turnout and we had great dialogue with our members, which was the intent of the event. For those unable to travel, we will have a virtual Open House coming on Tuesday, February 13, at 7pm,” says Matt Worobec, Manager, Marketing & Communications for Westoba. Garnet McBurney, Chair of Westoba’s Board of Directors, said, “We want our membership to be engaged throughout this process. The great part of a cooperative is that the member has a voice, and we appreciate those that took this opportunity to share their feedback and ask questions.” If you missed the open house at the Rivers Legion, you could attend the virtual open house on Tuesday, February 13 at 7pm. Pre-registration is required. Go to their website, https://westoba.com/openhouse/, and follow the steps to pre-register for the event.

February 9, 2024 Rivers Banner 3

FAITHFULLY YOURS Neil Strohschein Your gifts;

your choice; Part I

f all the decisions I must make each year, the one I write about today is the hardest. Every January, I review, revise and renew my “Faith Promise Offering” for the coming year. The process I use has three easy steps. First, I choose a dollar amount. It’s money I don’t haveyet; but money I am trusting God to supply. Next, I choose the groups to whom the funds will be given as they come in. Finally, I decide how much each group will receive. The whole process takes less than 30 minutes. Donations are recorded and regularly reviewed so that I can chart my progress through out the year. At year’s end, I close that year’s file and set targets for the coming year. I hope to continue doing this for many years to come. In choosing the total amount for each year’s offering, I mix realism with faith. I know that roughly two-thirds of my offering can be taken from the income I earn throughout the year. God supplies the rest-often in ways and from sources that I hadn’t anticipated. I advocate FPOs because I believe that the total amount we give each year and the charities to whom we donate these funds are decisions made between ourselves and God. The only others who will know how much we have given are the financial

secretaries of the charities to whom we donate the funds. And they are expected to keep the names of donors and the amounts of each donation secret. I believe that FPOs enable us to live out the spirit of St. Paul’s words to the Corinthians: “On the first day of every week, each of you is to put aside and save whatever extra you earn, so that collections need not be taken when I come.” (1 Corinthians 16:2) Now I realize that what you have just read may not agree with what you have been taught or what your faith tradition expects of you. I am fully aware of those who teach that “payment of tithing” is a Biblical principle and that your tithe (10 per cent of your gross income) must be paid to your local church or denomination. I am also aware of traditions that set no guidelines at all for their adherents and don’t even pass an offering plate during a worship service. Donors leave their offerings in a designated place in the church as they enter or use an increasingly popular option-preauthorized withdrawal from their bank account. You are free to choose the criteria by which you determine how much you will donate each year. I will not judge you for the criteria you use. Please don’t judge me for the criteria I use. In Romans 14:4, St. Paul admonishes us with these words: “Who are you to pass judgment on servants of another? It is before their own lord that they stand or fall.” One day we all will stand before God; and he will ask each of us to account for what we have done with the resources he has given us. He will judge us based on what we tell him and on what else he knows. And his judgment will be just, righteous and fair.

Valentine’s Day Wordsearch T

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2. ﬂowers 6. candy 10. teddy

3. red 7. card 11. roses

4. cupid 8. kiss 12. chocolate

Feb 13 4:30 – 6:30pm

Rapid City Community ChuRCh Sundays 10 a.m. Children’s Church during the message Bible Study – Thursdays 7:30 p.m.

JESUS IS LORD

Join us Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

447 Edward Street ~ 204-328-7882

Revelation 3:10 NkJV Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Rossburn Community Church

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Adults ~ $10 Children 6–12 ~ $5 Preschoolers ~ FREE

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St James Anglican Church Pancake and Sausage supper with a variety of toppings

Word Bank 1. love 5. heart 9. pink

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This year, let God guide you to the groups he wants you to support; and help you decide how much each group should receive. God will help you choose wisely; and you will not regret the choices you will make.

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Perspectives

4 Rivers Banner February 9, 2024

Tundra

Homebodies

By Chad Carpenter

Rita Friesen

Socked in!

Reaching out versus peering inward

have often pondered about laws and traditions around the Christian church. In 1906, Canada’s parliament passed The Lord’s Day Act which was intended to protect Sunday as a day of worship and rest. The law was struck down by a 6-0 vote of the Supreme Court in 1985. Christian churches still hold worship and instruction services mainly on Sunday mornings. In comparison to 1906, or even 1985, attendance is down, way down across the land. Many church buildings have been torn down, burned or re-purposed. Sunday became a replacement for Saturday, the Jewish Sabbath. On-line I found this explanation. “Why did we change the Sabbath to Sunday? While Jesus himself did not make a final break with the Sabbath, he so weakened it in the minds of his followers that they found it natural to move from worshipping on the Sabbath—a day of restrictions —to Sunday, a day associated with the joyous freedom brought about by the resurrection of Jesus.” It may be hard to determine if Sunday, as The Lord’s Day, has played out the way Jesus intended. The Sabbath was wrapped up in, some would say strangled, by rules. It has always been a puzzle to me how the Ten Commandments of the Old Testament (Old Covenant) could morph into hundreds of rules. One clue is that Jewish academics and theologians didn’t trust people to take the Ten Commandments and live by them. The ancient Christian church followed a similar path of piling on rules upon rules to “help” God out. It has been thus for over 2000 years. Occasionally reform or revival breaks out and a re-set takes place. It isn’t long before the rules prevail over the Ten Commandments and the Church slides back into legalism.

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Right in the Centre Ken Waddell Why do churches insist on having their main event on Sunday at 10 or 11 a.m.? You couldn’t likely pick a worse time for young families. Five days of school and school activities followed up by a Saturday of catching up on shopping and household duties leaves people pretty much tired out by Sunday. By noon Sunday, children and some adults are hungry and attention spans dwindle. Maybe I am over reacting but it seems to me that Jesus and his disciples met most days and frequently, not just Sundays. I don’t think they were as addicted to Sunday mornings as churches have become. It has always been so, but a lot of people can’t make it to a Sunday morning meeting all the time. Doctors, nurses, all health care workers, factory and shift workers, police and fire staff, the list goes on. I strongly feel that church organizations need to be much more flexible. It has often been decried by church members and leaders that bars and hockey rinks are better attended than churches. There are some reasons for that. Both bars and hockey rinks are less judgemental than some churches and maybe more fun. Did you ever wonder why bars have round tables? It’s so there can be face-to-face interaction, something that is largely missing in churches. Hockey rinks are more fun than many churches. Churches are set up like lecture

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halls and that is ok, to a point, as it is an efficient way to deliver a consistent message. However, if there is no chance for discussion at some point, the eyes front, central podium is prone to becoming a position of control. The pulpit or podium has been used by the church hierarchy to wield their control more than it has been to spread the Love of God. The secret for survival for churches is to remain relevant and become more relevant in today’s world. Churches should be out and about. Rather than crying about hockey tournaments being on Sunday, perhaps they could volunteer to have kids activities at the tournaments. Between games, the hours get pretty empty and boring so maybe there’s a way to fill those hours with kids activities. I also know that churches are always short of money (or think they are) but wouldn’t it be cool if a church actually signed up as a sponsor at local sporting or other events. I know this column is a bit farfetched and perhaps way off base but I do know this. Many churches have died and many more are attended by very old people. Jesus always went out into the community. He went to the people and if churches don’t follow his example, they won’t be here in ten years. 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.

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wice last week I was driving in pea soup fog. On the Thursday, heading to Carman for a funeral service for a family member, I was thankful that a grandson was driving. As we turned south from Highway One, we entered a fog zone. It never lifted. We became a part of a convoy, semis and passenger vehicles all proceeding carefully at less than 80 kms. Knowing me, we had given ourselves ample time for travel, and we needed it all. The conversation in our vehicle helped take my mind off the poor visibility, and the ticking clock. The ride back was pleasant and clear. Then on Friday we needed to head to the Brandon airport. Leaving here around ten thirty, we drove in fog, sometimes dense fog, and sometimes with a poor but adequate range of vision. The departure was scheduled for one thirty. Visions of the day before Christmas when the fog prevented any aircraft from landing or leaving Brandon, and the confusion that caused, I wasn’t certain my daughter would be getting back home to Saskatoon by nightfall. I stalled, having a slow lunch in the city, in case there was news of a cancelled flight. Nope. Text came that the craft had arrived, and everything was just minutes behind schedule. So I headed home. Yup, the plane was ready for loading and the visibility wasn’t all that bad. By the time I reached Forrest, and now I was by myself, the fog was settling in. By the River’s turn off, it was thick. Four way flasher thick. Thank God for passing lanes. I knew there was a vehicle ahead of me, I spotted it every once in a while. And in the passing lane several units took the opportunity to get ahead of. I was ok with that! It wasn’t until the Franklin turnoff that I stopped the four ways. And by the time I reached town, I was breathing easier. Not a fun drive, either day. It took me back to the time I drove my father to Rosthern, Saskatchewan. He was adamant that we could not go through Saskatoon- it was some time later I learned the reason why- and so we were on an unfamiliar road and drove into fog so thick one didn’t dare stop, or turn around, or turn…just creep slowly forward. Thankfully we came to a small community with street lights, found out just were we were, and slowly the fog lifted. There are times in my real life I feel like I am in a thick fog. Can’t see clearly what lies ahead, and can’t see clearly where I came from. Too foggy to stop, to foggy to turn around, can only proceed with utmost caution. Can’t say for certain exactly where I am. It’s not a good feeling. Grief does that, abuse does that, economic distress does that, and broken relationships do that. It happens to many of us for varying reasons. This is where my faith is my anchor, my North Star, my comfort and guide. In the times I need to slow way down to find my way, I am confident I will. The fog will lift.

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February 9, 2024 Rivers Banner 5

African Violets

2024

Grad Fundraiser

The perfect houseplants

Submitted By Patricia Hanbidge African violets are “the perfect houseplant” as they bloom year round with no specific f lowering season. They are of tropical origin and so are able to tolerate, thrive even, in heated houses; they have thick hairy leaves which protect them against water loss; they can live with the lower winter light levels and do not want even the direct sunlight of January days. And they are woefully easy to propagate. Care of African Violets is simple. The growing mix, which can be a peat-based houseplant mix, should be slightly damp. Wait until the soil is dry to the touch before watering, as they do not do well if kept too moist. Use a complete fertilizer in a dilute form with each watering. As with most houseplants, they prefer slightly cooler nights than the daytime temperature. African violets can tolerate lower light levels than many other f lowering plants but bright light is needed for f lowering. Sunny south or west windows are too bright and will cause leaf burn. Even our low light in the winter can sometimes be too bright. The plants are happiest on an east or north window but watch for cold drafts in the wintertime. Windows are not necessary for successful growing and f lowering. If you are using grow lights, mature plants should be at least 10 inches away from the light while started cuttings can be 6 -8 inches. If the plant is too close to the light, the growth will be very dense, compact, and bleached out. Like any other plant, violets will tell you if they are lacking light. The leaves will turn toward the light and a long

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stem develops. If the light source is not directly overhead, turning the plant a quarter turn each time you water it will keep the plant balanced. A large part of the charm of African violets is that they seem to attract few pests or diseases. Mealy bugs are the most likely pests and they appear on the undersides of leaves and at leaf axils. Dabbing them with a brush dipped in rubbing alcohol works but it may be easiest to simply start a new plant from a leaf cutting which you have carefully cleaned. African violets do best in ceramic or plastic pots. They do not like the salts which develop over time in clay pots and any leaves touching the pot rim will wilt and rot. Propagation is very simple. Break off a healthy leaf, cut the stem at a 45 -degree angle, and stick in water until roots form. Once roots are formed, the leaf is planted, roots and all, in a small pot and

set under grow lights. Within a few weeks, the first baby plant will emerge. Usually within 3 - 4 weeks you will have anywhere from 2- 6 baby plants poking up around the leaf stem. When the plantlets are about half way up the leaf stem, separate the plantlets so that there is one stem with attached roots. Pot these into small containers and set them back under the grow lights. Usually, within 8 -10 months, they will f lower. Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; by email at info@orchidhort.com; on facebook @ orchidhort and on instagram at #orchidhort. Tune into GROW Live on our Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/orchidhort or check out the Youtube channel GROW https://www.youtube. com/channel/UCzkiUpkvyv2e2HCQlFl0JyQ?

routine traffic stop involving a Manitoba vehicle, the driver, a Brandon resident, admitted to driving under the influence of cocaine. Subsequent search led to the discovery of multiple pre-packaged baggies filled with cocaine. The suspect faces charges of

Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Cocaine and will appear in Brandon court next month. The Rivers Police Department continues to prioritize public safety and urges residents to report any suspicious activities promptly.

Lon Schwartz (Chief of Police) Rivers Police Service The Rivers Police Department responded to a series of incidents over the past week, addressing various concerns within the community. Damages to windshield: A Rivers resident reported a chip in the windshield of their vehicle. Despite investigation, the origin of the chip remains in question. No evidence suggests criminal activity. Suspicious person: Police received a call regarding a person allegedly sleeping in a car behind a business. Upon arrival, officers found no one at the scene. Fire incident: Fire and Police Departments were dispatched to a Hydro pole on fire on 2nd Avenue. Investigation revealed a frost-laden tree branch rubbing a power line, causing sparks. The Public Works department resolved the issue promptly. Luring concerns: A Rivers man was engaged in conversations online with a teenage girl, prompting police intervention and discussion regarding appropriate conduct. Illegal dumping: Eighteen bags of garbage were reported dumped roadside, with identifiable documents indicating their origin. Charges are pending against the responsible party. Hit & Run investigation: A Rivers resident reported vehicle damage, initiating an ongoing investigation. Police are canvassing neighbours and pursuing available CCTV footage. Cocaine Possession and Trafficking: During a

6 Rivers Banner February 9, 2024

How much physical activity do you need?

Heart Health Awareness Month Submitted Heart and Stroke Foundation

To maintain heart health, a little physical activity goes a long way. Regular physical activity is a great way to keep your heart healthy and lead a healthy lifestyle. But if you’re not active now, don’t worry, you don’t have to suddenly embark on an Olympic-training program. Our recommendations Heart and Stroke recommends adults should accumulate at least 150 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per week, in bouts of 10 minutes or more. The activity doesn’t have to be non-stop, such as an aerobics class. You can do 10 minutes or more at a time throughout the day to reach your daily total. For example, take a brisk 10-minute walk during lunch hour, play for 10 minutes with your kids after work, and then spend another 15 minutes walking the dog in the evening. If you’re short on time, remember that any physical activity is better than none. However, the more active you are, the greater the health benefits. The bonus: physical activity will give you more energy and help you cope better with your busy week. Read more about how to monitor your exercise and find the right fitness tracker. Older adults should add muscle and bone-strengthening activities using major muscle groups at least two days per week to enhance balance and prevent falls. Just as a variety of foods is important for healthy eating, a variety of activities is important for healthy living. Choose physical activities that require endurance, strength and flexibility. Endurance activities are continuous activities such as walking, cycling and tennis. They’re especially beneficial for your heart, lungs and circulatory system. Strength activities, such as carrying groceries (or toddlers), heavy yard work or weight training, strengthen

muscles and bones and improve posture. Aim for at least two times a week. Flexibility activities, such as stretches, yoga, housework or golfing keep your muscles relaxed and your joints mobile. Increased flexibility later in life will allow you to continue to tie your shoes, reach the top shelf in your kitchen and clip your toenails. Balance activities you can do at home include standing on one foot or standing on your toes while holding onto the back of a chair. As you progress, steady yourself with one finger, then try it with no hands. When you are really steady, try the exercise with your eyes closed. Yoga and Tai Chi are also good for your balance along with any exercises that will strengthen your lower body.

Signed “Your Valentine”

By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

lot of people know that Valentines Day is in honour of Saint Valentine, a martyr priest in Rome who married couples without the consent because he believed in love. Saint Valentine performed weddings for Christian soldiers who were forbidden to marry by the Roman emperor. An 18thcentur y embellishment to the legend claims he wrote the jailer’s daughter a letter signed “Your Valentine” as a farewell before his execution. The holiday started out in the 8th-century as a feast celebration in February. In 18th-century England, it expanded into an occasion for couples to express their love for each other by giving flowers, gifts, and cards, known as “valentines”. Valentine’s Day symbols included the heart-shape, doves, and Cupid. Whether you choose to buy a Valentines from the store or craft one on your own, it is always nice to remind the people you care about that you are thinking about them. Valentines Day has grown beyond a couple’s holiday. It is a time to show all the people you care about that they matter to you, family, and friends.

Be sure to vary your activity from light, moderate and vigorous effort. Here are some suggestions: Light effort: light walking, volleyball, easy gardening or foraging, and stretching. Moderate effort: brisk walking, biking, raking leaves, swimming, dancing, and water aerobics. Vigorous effort: aerobics, basketball, fast swimming, fast dancing, hockey, and jogging. You’re never too old to strengthen your body! Studies have found that weight training can reverse muscle weakness even among people in their 90s. NOTE: Before starting a physical activity program, speak to your healthcare provider first to discuss what is right for you.

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February 9, 2024 Rivers Banner 7

Featuring House Special Smoked Cocktails

Call for a reservation today. Book reservations by February 10.

Enjoy a Smokin’ Hot Meal

Wrap Up the Best Deals for Valentine’s Day Chocolates

Cards

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All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.

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Scallion Drop Biscuits and Spinach Salad Santa’s Stuffed Chicken Savoury Ribs • Oven Roast Potatoes Fresh Vegetable Medley Dessert Choice: Mixed Berry Parfait or Smoky Bourbon Caramel Cheesecake 300 Woodworth Ave | Kenton, MB | 204-838-2213

Beautiful Flowers for a Love That Keeps Growing

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Eat, Drink, & Shop

Local

Roasted Chicken Strawberry Salad With Chocolate Vinaigrette Heart Health Awareness Month

Open Monday, Feb. 12 - 9am to 5pm • Fresh Roses

(Assorted Colours) and other fresh cut flowers

• We’ll custom make a Bouquet or Arrangement of your choice

Order early to avoid disappointment!

• Great selection of Giftware

CAMPBELL FLOWERS & GIFTS 24 2nd St. SE | Hamiota, MB 204-764-2744 | Toll Free 866-764-2744

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Chocolate on salad? Yes, please! The dark variety in the dressing for this recipe may be protective against heart attack and stroke, research suggests. Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoid antioxidants that can help blood vessels relax to improve blood flow, other research shows. The USDA also notes strawberries are a good source of vitamin C and manganese. Ingredients: 1/2 pound chicken thighs 4 cups baby greens 1/2 cup basil 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced 1/2 avocado, chopped 1-1/2 cups sliced strawberries 1/2 English cucumber, sliced 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese 2 tbsp sliced dry roasted almonds 1 oz dark chocolate 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 tsp honey 1 tsp grainy mustard 1/8 tsp chili flakes 1/8 tsp salt Directions: 1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone and cook until no longer pink inside and the internal temperature is 165 degrees F, about 20 minutes. Let cool and slice. 2) In a large bowl, toss together baby greens, basil, bell pepper, avocado, strawberries, cucumber, feta, and almonds. Divide among serving bowls and add sliced chicken. 3) Melt chocolate in a double broiler or microwave until smooth. Whisk together melted chocolate, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, mustard, chili flakes, and salt. Drizzle over salad to serve.

8 Rivers Banner February 2, 2024

16th annual Camp Bridges weekend set for Circle Square Ranch, Austin MB “Love builds bridges where there are none”

Submitted Rivers Banner Prairie Mountain Health is organizing the 16th annual Camp Bridges, a weekend camp for bereaved children and teens. Camp Bridges will be held at Circle Square Ranch, Austin MB on May 24, 25 and 26, 2024. The goal of Camp Bridges is to support children and teens with their grief and bereavement. This is achieved through activities designed to help share grief and honour memories in a caring community environment. Camp Bridges provides a safe, supportive and fun environment where grieving children and teens learn that they are not alone in their grief and are free to share their thoughts and feelings with peers who are going through a similar experience. The camp is intended to complement existing bereavement services for children and teens by providing a weekend of “caring, sharing and memories”. Camp Bridges accepts up to 40 applicants each year. Children and youth between the ages of 7-15 years of age, who reside in Manitoba, are welcome to apply. If you have any questions please contact a member of the Camp Bridges Planning Committee. The application deadline is May 1, 2024. Volunteers are needed for Camp Bridges 2024. Volunteering is a rewarding experience that makes a difference in the lives of children and youth. Please contact Carla Mitchell (204 -578 -2310) for more information. The application deadline for

SUBMITTED PHOTO

A unique, old western town site at Circle Square Ranch.

volunteers is March 20, 2024. Donations are being accepted to cover the cost of camp rental, meals and activities, so that campers may attend at no cost. If you wish to donate to Camp Bridges please contact Melissa Peters at 204 -578 -2340 or mpeters2@pmh-mb.ca.

More information, including camper and volunteer applications are available online at: https:// prairiemountainhealth.ca/programs-and-services/palliative-care/camp-bridges/ or contacting a member of the planning committee. Thank you.

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

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Commercial

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stewartend2015@gmail.com 204-365-0086 Alex Stewart Box 916, Rivers MB, R0K1X0

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February 9, 2024 Rivers Banner 9

CLASSIFIEDS Help Wanted

Coming Events

ROLLING RIVER SCHOOL DIVISION CLEANER POSITION Cleaner

Location Erickson, MB

Hours per day 4

Shift

February 10th, 2024

Elementary School - Evening Shift 3:30 pm - 7:30 pm (Note: A starting time after 3:30 pm is possible)

Qualifications Required: • Grade 12 or equivalent • Ability to take initiative and work unsupervised • Ability to work effectively with others as a member of a team • Ability to communicate effectively with people both orally and in writing • Physically fit and capable of performing physically demanding work Preferred Qualifications: • Current WHIMIS training and certification • Prior work-related cleaning experience • Valid Class 5 Drivers 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

Marlene Hayhurst Love, your Family

URGENT PRESS RELEASES - Have a newsworthy item to announce? An exciting change in operations? Though we cannot guarantee publication, MCNA will get the information into the right hands for ONLY $35.00 + GST/HST. Call MCNA (204) 947-1691 for more information. See www.

Obituary

Training will be provided to the successful applicant. Salary as per C.U.P.E. Collective Agreement: Cleaner $18.52 per hour

FREDRICK JOHN SMITH

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. Rolling River School Division welcomes applications from people with disabilities, accommodations are available upon request during the assessment and selection process.

For Sale

JUNE 23, 1929 – FEBRUARY 1, 2024 Fredrick John Smith, age 94 years, beloved husband of the late June Smith and loving father to Marilyn, Yvonne and Dwayne, passed away on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at the Wawanesa Health Centre. Fred was laid to rest in a private graveside service at Rivers Cemetery followed by a memorial reception at the Royal Canadian Legion #75. Donations in memory of Fred may be made to Riverdale Palliative Care, Box 428, Rivers, MB, R0K 1X0. Condolences: www.memorieschapel.com

Manitoba Community Newspaper Association Province Wide Classifieds NOTICES Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Manitoba Community Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www. mcna.com.

Happy 85th Birthday

PERMANENT 12-month

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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 WANTED Wanted old advertising: Dealership signs, service station, gas pumps, globes, oil cans, Red Indian, White Rose, Buffalo, Husky, Ford, GM, Dodge, Tire signs, Coke, Pepsi etc. Call 306-221-5908

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Rivers Banner

GAZETTE REPORTER

10 Rivers Banner February 9, 2024

SPORTS

Last home game of Huskies are stickin’ the season it to ‘em The Rivers Jets players were so excited for the Jets Social on Saturday, February 3. They came out f lying with a 10 -2 win over Souris Elks. Joben Smith scored a natural hat trick to give the Jets an early 3 - 0 lead while adding a pair of assists on the way to a five-point night. Keaton Moore scored twice while Brock Paddock added a goal and three assists and Josh Belcher returned to the lineup with a goal and two assists. Gerald Kuculym had three assists from the backend while Cam Ramsay added a goal of the year highlight in the third. Beer gardens started at 6:30pm in Redfern Hall. The social starts after the final horn. A big thank you to everyone who supported the social. In addition to the great sponsors who donated prizes for the raff le the Rivers Jets would also like to thank Rivers Tempo for donating the mix and Jherrad Cummings for looking after the music. One more scheduled game for the regular season. The Jets are headed to Wawanesa on February 10. The puck drops at 8pm. Submitted Rivers Banner

A basketball day is a slam dunk Hamiota Huskies SV Girls Basketball The Hamiota Huskies SV Girls basketball team played in the Huskies Varsity Girls Tournament Jan 26 and 27. They placed second in the round robin pool one. They played the Ste Rose Celtics in the finals. They lost, placing them fourth in the tournament. Rivers Rams SV Girls Basketball The Rivers Rams SV Girls basketball team played in the Huskies Varsity Girls Tournament Jan 26 and 27. They placed third in the round robin pool one. They played the Souris Sabres in the finals. They lost, placing them sixth in the tournament. Hamiota Huskies JV Boys Basketball The Hamiota Huskies JV Boys basketball team played in the Huskies JV Boys Tournament on January 19 and 20. After five games, the JV Boys placed fourth in the tournament. Elton Sabres SV Boys Basketball The Elton Sabres SV Boys basketball team played in the Treherne SV Boys Tournament on February 3. They defeated the Treherne Tigers 58-51. This led the Sabres to the championship match against the St. Laurent/Aurele-Lemoine (Co-op). The Sabres were defeated 37-102. They took second in the tournament. By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

n Friday, February 2, 2024, the Huskies defeated M/E Chancellors in Minnedosa with a score of 5 – 3. The Huskies started the game with two goals in the first and one goal in the second. The Chancellors closed the gap with three goals in the third. The game finished with the Huskies final two goals to win the game. The second weekend game for the Huskies was on Sunday, February 4, 2024, against the leader division team, Vincent Massey Vikings 4pm in Brandon. The Huskies prevailed again with a score of 4 – 3. In the first, the Huskies and the Vikings both put one goal in the net. The Vikings put one goal in the second, whereas the Huskies put two goals in to break the tie. Both teams fought hard in the third and both put in one more goal. The Huskies are on a roll. Tuesday February 6, the Huskies played the RGG Raiders at 8pm at the Hamiota Arena. Huskies won again with a score of 9 – 3 moving Huskies up to fourth in the division. Both teams scored one goal in the first and headed into the second with a tied score. Huskies put three more goals in the net and the Raiders put two more goals in the second period. In the third the Huskies pushed hard and scored five more goals. Their next game will be played on Friday, February 9 at 8pm against the REMH Renegades in Hamiota. By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

Do you have a print job? Call or email us, we offer special pricing on large volumes of printing

• Business cards • Envelopes • Invoices, purchase orders and statements • Invitations and postcards • Anything you have in mind!

Call or email us, for your printing needs! We can handle your designs with our Graphic Designer, Jessica Coulter

RIVERS BANNER

204-328-7494 info@riversbanner.com www.riversbanner.com

SPORTS

February 9, 2024 Rivers Banner 11

U15 Jets win Niverville Heritage Classic Submitted By Crystal Bourdin The U15 Rivers Jets made the trek over to Niverville, from February 2 – 4 to attend their U15 Heritage Classic tournament. There were eight teams competing in the tournament. Pool A consisted of Niverville White Clippers, Steinbach Millers, South Winnipeg K ings, and Rivers Jets. Pool B consisted of Niverville Blue Clippers, Lorette Comets, Kenora Forrest Flyers, and Minnedosa Bombers. On Friday, games consisted of the following outcomes. Rivers Jets beat SW K ings 5 - 0 with goalie Cameron Schoonbaert earning a shut out, Clippers White beat Millers 9- 0, Kenora beat Minnedosa 5 -2, Clippers Blue lost 4 -2 to the Lorette Comets, the Jets with goalie Kayden Elliot leading them to a 9-1 victory over the Millers, Clippers White won 5 -2 over SW K ings, Lorette and Minnedosa then tied 4 - 4, and the Clippers Blue lost to Kenora 3 -2. On Saturday, games the Jets played Clippers White with Cameron Schoonbaert earning his second shutout out with a final score of 5 - 0. Steinbach Millers went on to beat SW K ings 6 -3, Niverville Clippers Blue and Minnedosa Bombers tied 3 -3, while Lorette Comets won 6 -1 against Kenora Forrest f lyers. Saturday evening, after two days of working hard, the Rivers Jets and their families landed in Bigg Smoak Cookhouse in Steinbach for a hearty family style meal. If you are ever in Steinbach and enjoy smoked foods, be sure to check it out. Sunday was an early morning with the Jets getting to the rink at 8 am to take on the Kenora Forrest Flyers with Kayden Elliot in between the pipes ending in a score of 11-1 for the Jets sending them on to the gold medal game at 12:30pm. Niverville Clippers White took on Lorette Comets with the Clippers defeating the Comets 7-1, sending the Clippers on to meet Rivers in the gold medal game. Everyone came out determined to earn the gold medal bragging rights. In the first, the Niverville Clippers white scored the first goal. Not to be disheartened our Jets answered back with their first goal. The second period both teams working against a handful of penalties causing a 5 on 3 for the Jets for a bit, leading us to score our second goal making it 2-1. Back on to 5 on 5 which was short lived for the Jets who then took a Crosschecking penalty, all while our goalie Cameron Schoonbaert remained calm and collected. As has been through out the season we again managed to snag a goal short handed making it 3 -1. Everyone came into the third determined to be the winner. Lots of heart and determination was being shown on the ice from both teams. The Jets scored another one making it 4 -1, but then unfortunately took a 4 -minute penalty and the Clippers wasted no time in answering back with the second goal of the game. Unfortunately for the Clippers they ran short of time, while the U15 Rivers Jets claimed the title of the Niverville Heritage Classic. Five games all undefeated congrats on all the hard work all the players and parents and coaches put in on the weekend. Go Jets Go!

Team gets a pep talk from their coach.

Captain and assistant captains are very proud to be holding the champion pennant.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Winter Fun is

IN SEASON! WE CAN HELP YOU PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS DURING

Ski & Snowboard Month, Skating Month & Snowmobile Safety Week This January & All Season!

Rivers Banner ~ 204-328-7494 ~ info@riversbanner.com

12 Rivers Banner February 9, 2024

Grant intake opens for urban/hometown Green Team Program

Youth Employment Program Supports Municipal and Community Projects Grant applications are now being accepted for the Urban/Hometown Green Team program, which allows organizations to hire youth between the ages of 15 and 29 for summer jobs across Manitoba, Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Ian Bushie announced today. “The Green Team program is a great success story that supports both community organizations and the young people who participate,” said Bushie. “The young people who participate get summer employment as well as experience working within communities to improve neighbourhoods, promote community involvement and help develop employment and leadership skills.” The grants support hiring youth to work on community projects between May and September. Eligible recipients include municipal governments (excluding the City of Winnipeg), Northern Affairs Community Councils and non-profit organizations throughout Manitoba. “The Green Team program is an important part of our summer staffing needs,” said Ron Brown, president and CEO, Boys and Girls Club Winnipeg. “Summer is the busiest time of the year for us and to be able to provide meaningful employment for our youth really helps to develop their potential. Many of our Green Team staff have gone on to exciting careers. We look forward to being able to provide these opportunities again this summer.” The grants cover 100 per cent of wage costs plus $250 per position for non-profit organizations. Municipal governments receive 50 per cent of wage costs and $125 per position on a cost-shared basis. “Our government is proud to continue this valued youth

Submitted By Ian Bushie

employment program,” said Bushie. “We are committed to investing in youth across Manitoba and helping inspire future leaders. We also recognize these community projects would not be possible without leadership from our

municipalities, community organizations and dedicated volunteers, and we thank them for all their work in making these opportunities possible for young Manitobans.” The deadline for applications is Monday, March 4.