Top: It’s a hit to right field by #32 Rivers Comets Scott Beever during the game on Monday night, May 27..
# 9 Owen Wareham pitched the start of the game on May 27 against the Elkhorn
Submitted By Jocelyn Beever
On May 22, the home opener saw the Comets take on the Oak River Dodgers to a good crowd on a cool but sunny evening. Scott Beever pitched a complete game allowing 1 earned run, on 5 hits, with 13 strikeouts.
The Comets took advantage of Kaden Rozdeba’s struggle to find the strike zone in the first inning, scoring 2 on a couple of walks.
Ty Paddock scored Oak River’s lone run off a double from Dunc Paddock in the 4th. The top of the 6th saw the Dodgers threaten when Riley Shamray doubled and
advanced to third on Dunc Paddock’s single but both runners were stranded.
The Comets responded with insurance runs in the bottom of 6 facing Xavier Mowbray, when Hrysak, Wareham and Shaw scored off hits from Shaw and Beever to go ahead 5-1.
Owen Wareham led the offence with 2 doubles, a walk, and scored. Ryan Shaw doubled and walked, scoring twice. Freddie Hrysak scored twice off a single and a walk.
Congratulations to Bev Kachan who won the 50/50 of $119. more baseball coverage on page 11...
Serving the Rivers, Rapid City, Forrest, Kenton, Oak River, Hamiota and Oak Lake areas for 116 years
Right:
Expos.
PHOTOS BY JESSICA COULTER
Submitted By Kacie Albert
In front of a sold-out Saturday night, May 25, crowd in Brandon, MB, Weston Davidson of Strongfield, SK rode supreme, going a perfect 2-for-2 to win the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Canada Cup Series’ Mazergroup Chute Out inside Keystone Centre.
Davidson first struck in Round 1, delivering the fourth best score when he covered Busta Rhymes (X6 Ranch Bucking Cattle/ Legend Rodeo Stock) for 84 points.
In the final round, the reserved Saskatchewan man then went head-to-head with Halo’s Flyin’ Cadillac (X6 Ranch Bucking Cattle/ Legend Rodeo Stock). In what proved to be a perfect pairing, Davidson remained in perfect time with the powerful animal athlete, reaching the requisite 8 with ease for 86 points. The score not only won him the championship round, but also clinched Davidson the event win.
Compliments of the golden finish, Davidson earned 124 national points.
Two-time PBR Canada Champion Cody Coverchuk of Meadow Lake, SK finished second, collecting 78 national points.
Coverchuk was unrivaled in Round 1, logging what proved to be the high-marked ride of the event when he dominated Emerald Inn (X6 Ranch Bucking Cattle/B2 Braithwaite Ranches) for 87 points.
In the championship round, however, Coverchuk fell short of the victory when he was upended by Times A Tickin (Thompson Rodeo Livestock) in 6.41 seconds.
Coverchuk is chasing his record-tying third national title this November, a current top contender for the 2024 Championship and accompanying $100,000 bonus.
Coy Robbins of Camrose, AB parlayed an 85.5-point
ride atop Finger Roll (X6 Ranch Bucking Cattle/Legend Rodeo Stock) in Round1 into a third-place finish. Robbins left Manitoba with 54 national points.
Fourth was Garrett Green of Meeting Creek, AB. The Albertan rode Mogley (Lazy S Bucking Bulls) for 84.5 points in the opening round to earn 38 national points.
Rounding out the Top 5 in fifth was Chad Hartman of Lancer, SK. He covered Chairman Frank (Lazy S Bucking Bulls) for 78 points in Round 1 to garner 24 national points.
In the bull pen, Built Tough (Thompson Rodeo Livestock) and Ringling Road (Wilson Rodeo) bucked supreme, splitting the YETI “Built for the Wild” Bull of the Event honor. Both bovine athletes were marked 43.5 points in the championship round.
Built Tough posted the top score for his 2.58 seconds of work against Chanse Switzer of Hazenmore, SK while Ringling Road lit up the scoreboard when he tossed Cody Fraser of Wilmington, Australia in 2.64 seconds.
The 2024 PBR Canada seasons continues Saturday, June 1 in London, ON. Action for the Cup Series’ PBR London Classic gets underway at 7pm EDT inside Budweiser Gardens.
Pineapple Cheesecake
A delicious blend of pineapple and cream cheese in a graham cracker crust. This was a huge hit at the spring ladies auxiliary supper in Kenton and was so easy to make.
Ingredients:
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup white sugar
2 (15 ounce) cans crushed pineapple, drained
1-3/4 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed 1 (9 inch) prepared graham cracker crust (or make your own)
Directions:
1) In a large bowl, mix cream cheese and sugar together. Stir in 1 can of pineapple and whipped topping to cream cheese mixture. Mix until smooth.
2) Pour mixture into
and top
The Power of Friendship
Submitted By Diane Kowalchuk
Women’s Institute members have always said that Women’s Institute (WI) is the “best kept secret”. It is such a worthwhile organization and yet relatively unknown! Well, at the last meeting of Rivers WI, the members learned about another “best kept secret” – Friendship Force International. Two members of the Brandon Friendship Force Club attended the May WI meeting to pass on information about their group. The goal of the organization is to create a better place to live through friendships. It began in 1977 and now has 300 clubs in 70 countries. Membership in the club entitles group travel to places around the world, staying in family homes (outward travel). The other side of the coin is that members host individuals belonging to another group from somewhere else (inbound hosting). Sounds like a great time! This is not the usual travel club; the focus is on friendships and creating friendships that will last a lifetime. Friendship Force is a group that attempts to “harness the power of human connection”. Thanks to Iris Reilly and Marie Wotton for being our guests and for piquing our interest! Safe travels!
Rivers WI also believes in making human connections. We will be delivering Meals on Wheels in June, and we have donated $100 to a grad award for the student who has the second highest academic achievement. We were delighted to receive photos taken by former member, the late Wilma Treloar, that were snapped at a meeting in 1988 at the home of the late Lorrie Dyer. What a blast from the past!
The next regular meeting will be held in September on the topic of “Mindfulness” at the home of Heather Lamb. In the meantime, plans have been made for our annual June tour. On June 13, members will travel to Brookdale to visit the Brookdale Hall, followed by lunch at Neepawa and a tour of the McPhee Gardens. It’s always fun to travel together!
2024
PHOTO FROM THE EVENT, COURTESY COVY MOORE Weston Davidson wins Event with two great rides.
FAITHFULLY YOURS
Neil StrohScheiN
Taking the “back door”
It was the worst score I had ever received on a test. I was taking a summer course, one of two university courses I needed to complete my Theology degree. This class proved to be a real challenge. The instructor knew the course material very well; but had trouble communicating with class members. Class sessions were 2.5 hours per day, 5 days a week for three weeks. I took detailed class notes and reviewed them faithfully.
Then came the first section exam--20 multiple-choice questions; not one of which had anything to do with the material covered in class. They were all based on assigned readings from the text and (to me, at least) looked like they had been chosen from a booklet of possible exam questions which the book’s publisher supplied to instructors.
Answers were recorded on a separate sheet and graded electronically. In this case, the computer did not lie. My score was very, very low. Fortunately, it was worth only 10 per cent of my final grade. But I learned how that instructor created exams. So for the next two, including the final, I mastered the assigned readings; and earned very high marks.
So I can relate to the answers a veteran insurance agent gave a new recruit who had just joined his agency. “Sir,”
the recruit asked the veteran, “how did you become so successful?” “That’s easy,” the veteran replied. “I used good judgment.”
“And how,” the recruit continued, “did you acquire good judgment?” The veteran smiled and said: “By making mistakes.”
“And why,” the recruit concluded, “did you make mistakes?” Looking him in the eye, the veteran answered: “Poor judgment!”
That’s how life is for all of us. We live. We work. We do some things well. But, far too often, it seems; we make mistakes. And from the moment we make those mistakes, we must deal with the looks, hear the words and cope with the attitudes of those around us; some of which say: “You are a failure. You will never amount to anything.”
Don’t you believe it!! You are not a failure. You have never been a failure. You will never be a failure. You are just taking the “back door” to success! And as you recover from your mistakes, you will learn two important lessons God wants us all to learn.
First, don’t let your past determine your present or define your future. Learn from your mistakes. Find out what caused them-where you showed the poor judgment that lead to your mistakes. You made them once, just like I did on the exam I referred to earlier. But you don’t need to repeat them; and you won’t if you learn from them.
Second, God uses our mistakes, our failings and even our sins to deepen our faith in him and to point us in the direction he wants us to go. St. Paul, who experienced this truth in his own life, put it this way: “We know that for those who love God, all things work together for
New locally created Crossword
good...” (Romans 8:28)
Human history is filled with stories of people who made colossal blunders but who, by God’s grace and with his help, were able to recover from their mistakes, rebuild their credibility and live out their days with wisdom, humility, dignity, courage and integrity. Our stories can end the same way. God specializes in taking broken people, putting them back together again and using them to bring hope, help and healing to others. He can do that for you. Believe-and you will receive.
St James Anglican Church Cold Plate Supper For Take-out call
Lift to all floors available.
Created by David Harris of Oak River, MB
Tundra
By Chad Carpenter
Perspectives Smouldering…
Ask the questions
Many decades of reading, observing and writing has caused me to be very interested in many topics. It has also taught me to question just about everything and I don’t mean in a cynical or nasty way. I just think it’s good to question just about everything you see, read or hear.
Recently, I read an article by a reputable writer about temperature changes. The article was well thought out and well written and showed that temperatures at various weather stations have gone up since 1950. I don’t doubt that is true. What I want to know is where those weather stations are located. If they are located at airports, as they often are, let’s think back to 1950. Take Winnipeg airport for example. In 1950, it was in an open prairie area with few buildings around it. There wasn’t nearly the acres of concrete that are there now and the number of airplanes was far fewer in number. The planes were mostly single engine planes, some with two engines and a few four engine planes. Jets were rare. Do you see any factors in that description that might be adding to the temperature at Winnipeg airport since 1950. Any claim about temperature increases at Winnipeg airport need to be examined in light of those changes. I know for a fact that the airport was in the middle of a wide expanse of open prairie, not only from looking at old maps and pictures but because my older brothers told me they could run out from their house on the last street on the west side of Winnipeg and play near the airport. Great fun, watching the WWII planes coming and going all day.
Back in my University days (1960s) we were told the world was running out of oil. All the oil that was made by compressed plant life and dinosaurs or whatever would run out. There’s two problems with that story. One is we haven’t run out of oil yet, they are discovering more all the time and who is to say that the earth’s pressure might be still squishing stuff into more oil. Oil shortages may come some day, but we certainly haven’t met the targets that people set in the 1960s.
We have also been told that the solution to poverty is more government money. I am sure government has a role to play in battling poverty, but I think poverty has a lot to do with attitude. Let it be said, if someone is in a bad situation, they need help, no question. That help needs to come from family when available, community when available, from faith groups whenever possible, lots of places. Poverty is real but it can be beaten, one family at a time.
There’s another problem these days. Food is very expensive. That’s for sure, no question, but compared to what? If a person owns two or three homes or goes on unnecessary trips, are they short of money for food or victims of misplaced priorities? Food
is still pretty cheap in this country. And here’s a story that amuses me. People love their junk food, their pets and their entertainment. If you are feeling a bit pinched, are those three things really necessary. You can’t blame the cost of food on junk food, pet food, expensive family holidays and, yes, disposable diapers. There was a day when parents bought or made washable cloth diapers. A bit messy but for those who are truly concerned about landfills, remember that 40 billion disposable diapers end up in the landfill every year.
Then finally, why on earth do we use bottled water? Really, bottled water? In most communities, the water is good enough to drink from the tap. Even if the chlorine level is bit high, let the water sit in a jug for a few hours (that’s what we do) and it will be fine.
These are just some random thoughts on what have become accepted facts that need to be questioned once in a while. Always question things, be nice about it, but ask the questions.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in thiscolumn are the writer’s personal views andare not to be taken as being the view of the Banner & Press staff.
Rita Friesen Homebodies
Scrolling through the news the other night, I stopped and listened to a Canadian broadcaster explain how some of the fires currently burning in British Columbia – and it happens elsewhere, are not man made or caused my lightening strikes. They are fires that smouldered underground all winter and once the earth above the embers was dry enough, a full fledged fire emerged. Yes, there is enough air below the surface, especially in areas where there is peat or decades of decay amassed. Nothing he said was new to me, or surprised me. Rather, it took me back fifteen or so years. While residing on the acreage east of Neepawa we had a designated burn area. All winter long fallen branches would be piled in a spot just north east of the house, east of the – for us, coal barn. Come spring there would be the regular tree trimming and pruning, and again, all debris heaped on the pile. It made for some glorious after dark bonfires, many wiener roasts with toasted marshmallows for dessert. In short, a family favourite location, enjoyed by several generations. It must have been a drier than usual summer, for despite the fire being thoroughly doused before leaving the site, (Mandatory that the water hose be connected, on site, at the ready, as well as several pails of water on standby – always!) a few days later we spotted wisps of smoke feet away from the fire pit site. A quick look revealed that the fire had travelled underground, through the decades of manure is my guess, and ignited the dry grass on the surface. Assessing the situation, we poured on much water, mowed a large area and removed all the clippings. It happened more than once. The most dramatic was the morning I looked out the upstairs bathroom window and spotted an ancient maple ablaze, meters away from the start point of the fire. I was heading out to work, so I alerted the grandson, aware that he would be capable of handling the situation. Now, to be fair, sharing this memory with him, he felt that the old maple was the result of another fire, knowing Ed’s stand on frivolous fires, and especially after one or two incidents, I hope sincerely that this was one and the same underground smouldering blaze!
My reflection veered to meddling. How many times have I stuffed an emotion, usually a negative one, deep down underground. The heat of the moment passes, the undealt with anger/disgust/despair buried: until the conditions are ideal for the smouldering ember to be fanned into flame. And sadly, too often, the recipient of the negative emotions isn’t deserving of it, or the source of it, simply present at the wrong time. There are times when the conflagration erupts far from the source but erupt it will. I would like to think that I am learning as I go through life. Just as we learned to be much more safety conscious with our bonfires, I would like to think that I have been much more careful with dealing with all my emotions, positive and negative- protect the innocent! And all this from a newscast…
Ken Waddell Right in the Centre
Watch out for these poisonous backyard plants
By Metro Creative Rivers Banner
Spending time in the backyard can be restorative and relaxing. Is it any wonder why homeowners are increasingly improving their homes so that they can blur the lines between the indoors and outside and enjoy more recreational moments in nature?
Part of what makes a landscape inviting is the bevy of plants dotting suburban landscapes. Individuals may take painstaking pleasure in mapping out landscapes that are both functional and appealing. When selecting foliage, it’s wise for homeowners to familiarize themselves with certain plants that may not be very welcome in their entertaining areas - particularly those that are dangerous. Poison ivy, oak and sumac may be some of the better-known poisonous plants, but there are others that can prove problematic as well.
· Hogweed: This is an invasive plant that grows throughout North America but is particularly well-known along the Atlantic coast. The sap in the leaves can cause phytophotodermatitis, which is a chemical reaction after exposure to sunlight. Painful, severe blisters can form on the skin wherever it touches, and hogweed sap may cause blindness if it gets into the eyes.
· Lily of the Valley: This plant is known for delicate, bell-shaped flowers and a sweet scent. While Lily of the Valley is not poisonous to touch, if ingested, toxic glycosides in the flowers, berries, leaves, and stems may cause a host of problems, including disorientation, vomiting, blurry vision, and rashes.
· Bleeding Heart: Native to woodlands, this perennial loves the shade. It produces unique flowers that resemble tiny pink or white hearts with drops of blood at the bottom. Roots and foliage of Bleeding Heart contain alkaloids that are toxic to animals if ingested in high quantities.
· Nerrium Oleander: All parts of this beautiful shrub are extremely poisonous. It should definitely be kept away from pets and treated with caution or avoided altogether.
· Foxgloves: Adored among pollinators, Foxgloves produce towering pink and white trumpet blooms in early summer. The whole plant is toxic if eaten, however. People who eat any part or attempt to make tea may find their heart rate slowing down or becoming irregular.
What is country cooking?
By Metro Creative Rivers Banner
Country cuisine can be enjoyed anywhere but is perhaps most synonymous with the southeastern region of the United States.
Rich flavours, familiar foods and large portions are hallmarks of country cooking. However, ingredients may vary by region, and the backgrounds of the people living in these parts of the country also may contribute to some unique recipes on traditional favourites. The following are five types of country cuisine and the foods associated with each tradition.
Creole/Cajun
Creole and Cajun cooking have similar influences but are not entirely the same. Creole originated in Louisiana and uses cooking techniques from Spain and France, but spices and ingredient combinations passed down from African cultures and Native Americans. Gumbos and bread puddings are popular Creole dishes. Cajun cooking originated when French Canadians migrated to Southern Louisiana in the mid-1700s. Popular Cajun dishes incorporate crawfish, alligator and frog.
Low country
The low country is the South Carolina coast. Low country cuisine utilizes seafood taken fresh from the coastal waters to make savoury dishes that are similar to Creole and Cajun dishes. Rice, shrimp, grits, and okra are popular ingredients in low country cooking.
Appalachia
Those in the central Appalachian mountains have a cuisine all their own that spans several different states. As farms are prevalent in these areas, farm-fresh foods that are homegrown are quite common. Chicken and dumplings, chili beans, cobblers, biscuits and gravy, and wild game all are part of Appalachian cooking.
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· Stinging Nettle: Brushing up against Stinging Nettle can be a painful experience. The plant has tiny stinging hairs on its leaves and stems.
· Wild Hemlock: This is a very poisonous member of the carrot family. If consumed, Wild Hemlock, which looks like parsley, can cause health problems. Toxins also can be absorbed through the skin.
· Deadly Nightshade (Belladonna): A beautiful plant that produces shiny, black cherry-like berries, this contains a poison that can paralyze the gastrointestinal muscles and eventually the heart. The Royal Horticultural Society says that even rubbing up against it can irritate the skin.
Many plants, however beautiful, can be dangerous if ingested or touched.
Soul food
Soul food gained steam during the 1960s when Black Americans aspired to honor their ties to country cooking as well as their heritage. Comforting and familiar dishes include collard greens, candied yams, fried chicken, sweet potato pie, and macaroni and cheese. These dishes are universally enjoyed by people of all races and cultures. And as Black individuals moved out of the South, they brought their meals and cooking styles with them.
Country cooking is unique, flavourful and comprised of the foods and techniques honed by people from many cultures.
Canadian beef exports higher
By Shawn Cabak Mba Agriculture
Canadian beef exports have been gaining traction in 2024; with monthly volumes up 2-16 per cent from January to March.
Beef exports in the first quarter of 2024 totalled 136,842 tonnes, up nine per cent in volume from the same period last year and 23 per cent higher than the five-year average. Domestic beef production in the first quarter was steady with last year and up 3.7 per cent from the five-year average. Larger exports suggest the international consumer was willing to pay more for beef, pulling product away from the domestic consumer. Exports to the US
totalled 102,000 tonnes in the first quarter, up 11 per cent from 2023 and 27 percent higher than the five-year average.
Beef imports have also been above year ago levels throughout the first quarter. Totalling 47,300 tonnes, imports were up 15 per cent from last year and up 12 percent from the five-year average. Even though beef imports went up along with exports, there was a net increase in Canadian beef exports. For more information contact the Manitoba Agriculture office in Portage at 204-239-3353 or Shawn. Cabak@gov.mb.ca
Canadian field crop stocks mostly lower
By Shawn Cabak Mba Agriculture
As of Mar. 31, 2024, total stocks of wheat, oats, corn and soybeans were all down, while stocks of canola and barley increased, compared with the same period in 2023.
Total wheat stocks were down 15.4 per cent year over year to 11.8 million tonnes as of Mar. 31. On farm stocks fell 15.9 per cent to 8.4 million tonnes, while commercial stocks decreased 14.2 per cent to 3.4 million tonnes. Stocks of canola were up 17.5 per cent year over year to 8.3 million tonnes as of Mar. 31. The gain was attributable to a 16.3 per cent increase in onfarm stocks to 6.7 million tonnes and a 22.7 per cent
rise in commercial stocks to 1.6 million tonnes. Canola exports for this period were down 36.0 per cent, well below the five-year average. The decrease in canola exports was due to high global supplies of soybeans and palm oil. Domestic use of canola, largely for crushing, reached a record 8.1 million tonnes (+10.8 per cent).
Total stocks of grain corn were down 8.9 per cent year over year to 8.3 million tonnes. Onfarm stocks decreased 6.9 per cent to 5.3 million tonnes, while commercial stocks fell 12.3 per cent.
Imports of grain corn rose 62.4 per cent to 1.8 million tonnes, because of increased demand for animal feed in Western Canada.
Soybeans drop slightly
Soybean stocks edged down 0.9 per cent year over year to 2.0 million tonnes as of Mar. 31. Both onfarm stocks (-0.9 per cent to 1.2 million tonnes) and commercial stocks (-0.9 per cent to 893 000 tonnes) decreased.
Barley stocks increased 10.5 per cent year over year to 3.1 million
tonnes as of Mar. 31, 2024. Domestic use—largely for feed—decreased 2.3 per cent to 4.8 million tonnes, as cattle producers in Western Canada opted to feed more corn. Exports of barley also decreased, falling 37.2 per cent. Stocks of oats decreased by 50.9 per cent year over year to 1.3 million tonnes. This decrease was largely caused by low production during the 2023 growing season. Total stocks of lentils, flax and rye dropped 41, 10 and 42 per cent respectively.
Provincial seeding progress
and tillering in the warm temperatures with fields greening up dramatically.
Dry Bean planting is at 24 per cent completion across the province.
making the move as weather conditions permit.
As of Tuesday, May 28, provincial seeding progress is about 64 per cent complete and behind the Five-Year average for this point of the season, which usually stands at 75 per cent.
Producers have focused on planting corn (80 per cent complete), spring wheat (87 per cent complete) barley (79 per cent complete) and peas (96 per cent complete). Canola planting continues with 41 per cent of the acres planted. Soybean planting is at 55 per cent completion. Producers are planting a variety of crops based on soil and weather conditions.
Cereals
Winter cereal fertilizer applications are complete with field survival at 85-95 per cent and only a few fields terminated. Winter cereal stands are growing rapidly
Cereals in the Central region are the most advanced with much of the early seeded cereals at the five-leaf stage with one tiller.
Spring wheat seeding is at 87 per cent complete, barley seeding is at 79 per cent and oats is at 76 per cent across the province.
Grain corn planting is 80 per cent complete with most of the early planted corn at V3 stage.
Oilseeds
Both canola and sunflower planting is at 41 per cent completion across the province.
Pulses/Soybeans
Field pea planting is at 96 per cent completion across the province.
Soybean planting is at 55 per cent completion across the province.
Forages
Rains throughout the week and over the weekend are stimulating pasture growth and the landscape is green. Hay fields and pasture are both in good shape with standing water in some areas.
Tame hay growth is now up to 16 inches. Pastures and alfalfa are quickly greening up and will make use of the current availability of moisture.
All low-lying areas and ditches have water standing/flowing. Alfalfa stands are about 12” tall and dense. Most bromes and ryegrasses are building up steam and tillering.
Livestock
Several beef cattle operations have animals fully on pasture and others are
Most cattle have entered some kind of pastures to avoid the mud which has appeared in the overwintering areas and to make the most of the strong pasture growth. In some cases, there may be enough growth to meet livestock nutritional needs, but supplementary feeding is still taking place on some farms. Producers are checking their fences and carrying out necessary maintenance work ahead of the grazing season. Cattle vaccination is underway. Calving is ongoing but will wrap up by the end of the month.
Dugouts are full and water levels are currently adequate.
Expanded details on the weekly crop report can be found online at: https://www.gov.mb.ca/ agriculture/crops/seasonalreports/crop-report/pubs/cropreport-2024-05-28.pdf
Tips to revitalize a garden this spring
Gardening is a rewarding hobby that pays a host of significant dividends. Many people love gardening because it allows them to spend time outdoors, and that simple pleasure is indeed a notable benefit of working in a garden. But the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture notes that gardening provides a host of additional benefits, including helping people get sufficient levels of exercise, reduce stress and improve mood.
With so much to gain from gardening, it’s no wonder people look forward to getting their hands dirty in the garden each spring. As the weather warms up, consider these tips to help bring a garden back to life.
· Discard the dead weight. Winter can take its toll on a garden, even in regions where the weather between December and early spring is not especially harsh. Discard dead plants that have lingered into spring and prune any perennials that need it. Branches that fell during winter storms also should be removed at this point if they have not previously been discarded.
· Test the soil. Soil testing kits can be purchased at local garden centers and home improvement retailers. Such tests are inexpensive and can reveal if the soil needs to be amended to help plants thrive in the months to come.
· Mulch garden beds. Mulching benefits a garden by helping soil retain moisture and preventing the growth of weeds. Various garden experts note that mulching in spring can prevent weed seeds from germinating over the course of spring and summer. That means plants won’t have to fight with weeds for water when the temperature warms up. It also means gardeners won’t have to spend time pulling weeds this summer.
· Inspect your irrigation system. Homeowners with
in-ground irrigation systems or above-ground systems that utilize a drip or soaker function can inspect the systems before plants begin to bloom. Damaged sprinkler heads or torn lines can deprive plants of water they will need to bloom and ultimately thrive once the weather warms up.
· Tune up your tools. Gardening tools have likely been sitting around gathering dust since fall. Serious gardeners know that tools can be expensive, so it pays
to protect that investment by maintaining the tools. Sharpened pruners help make plants less vulnerable to infestation and infection. Well-maintained tools like shovels and hoes also make more demanding gardening jobs a little bit easier, so don’t forget to tune up your tools before the weather warms up.
It’s almost gardening season, which means gardeners can start on the necessary prep work to ensure their gardens grow in strong and beautiful this spring.
CLASSIFIEDS
“TIMER” HYNDMAN
NOVEMBER 10, 1925 – MAY 2, 2024, AGE 98 YEARS.
“Timer” was born Harold Earl Hyndman on November 10, 1925 at the home of a mid-wife in Oak River, Manitoba, the son of Frank Shaw “Pop” Hyndman (1896-1978) and Laura May “Nan” Peters (1896-1990). Shortly afterwards, the Hyndman family moved from Tatonka to Rapid City.
Shortly after the outbreak of World War II, his three older Hyndman brothers enlisted in the Canadian Military but - at age 17 and onehalf - Timer was refused by the Royal Canadian Navy. Eventually he enlisted and trained with the Tank Corps of the Royal Canadian Army at Camp Shilo but transferred to the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders to get overseas more quickly. In May 1945 his unit was aboard a ship in the English Channel when the war ended in Europe. Trooper Hyndman was transferred to the Royal Winnipeg Rifles and that unit was assigned to disarm Nazi troops in the Friesland Islands. Timer then became a medic in the Occupation Army that guarded thousands of ‘Hitler Youth’ who had been interned on Germany’s Norderney Island in the North Sea.
Shortly after returning to Canada, Timer went north to work in the smelter of the HBMS mine at Flin Flon and it was there he met Sophia Soltys from Merridale, Manitoba. They married in 1951 and raised their family in Rapid City. Timer was a farmer, a ‘well witcher’, and took over the Canada Post mail route in 1967 (from his father who had held the contract since 1931). He served on Council for the Town of Rapid City for 29 years.
Rapid City was invited to be the first rural community in Manitoba to convert from the old party-line ‘crank’ telephone system to the more ‘modern’ rotary dial phones. Mayor Hyndman declined because that would have meant losing the five full-time telephone operator jobs. In the summer of 1977, Rapid City was the last Manitoba community to make the changeover and celebrated with a “No More Cranks” event.
Timer graduated from the Western Canadian School of Auctioneering at Lacombe, Alberta in 1975 and conducted over 600 auction sales throughout western Manitoba. His last coin sale was in the Rapid City Legion Hall in 2015 and his last tax sale for the RM of Riverdale was in 2021.
Timer moved into the Minnedosa Personal Care Home in September 2022 and passed away early in the morning of Thursday, May 2, 2024. Timer was predeceased by his parents, (Laura and Frank Hyndman), his wife Sophia (1917-2005), his sister Marion Grace (19202010), his brother Pilot Officer Orrie Frank (1922-1944), his brother Robert John (19232002), his brother Nyall Dennis (1924-2009), and his sister Vera Jean (1927-1994).
Timer is survived by his daughter, Dr. Kathryn Jean Hyndman (David Ford), his son Harold Frank Hyndman, his sister-in-law Bette Hyndman; four grandchildren, Alica Fulford (Kelly), Sheena Kent (Daniel), Aynsley Hyndman (Zoe), Jared Berry; five great-grandchildren, Noah, Ethan, Leila, Macoy, and Beckham; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A ‘Celebration of Life’ service will be held in the Rapid City Legion Hall on Saturday, June 15, at 1:00 PM. In lieu of cards and flowers, those who wish may make a donation to Timer’s favourite organization, the Rapid City Legion, at Rapid City Legion Branch #49, Box 188, Rapid City, Manitoba R0K 1W0, or at his memorial service. Internment will be in the plot alongside his wife Sophia in the Rapid City Cemetery. White’s Funeral Home in Minnedosa in care of arrangements www.whitesfh.ca Lest We Forget.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF PHILLIP RAYMOND SWORYK
MARCH 22, 1928 – MAY 14, 2024
Phillip Raymond Sworyk, beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on May 14th, 2024, at the Assiniboine Clinic in Brandon, Manitoba surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Anne, and their son Raymond, his brothers Walter and Nick and sisters Sophie Kozak and Phyllis Sworyk.
He is survived by his daughter Janice (Jim Bissett), son Dennis (Coleen Vieville), and grandsons Joe (Shawna Moske) and Andy (Kerri Leveque) and by his special friend Rosemary Moncrief. He also leaves behind his sisters, Marie Petras, Jean Citulsky and Anne Scheepbouwer, brothers Joe (Laverne) and Mike (Connie) and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish his memory.
Dad was born on March 22nd, 1928, in Ozerna, Manitoba. He was a man of strong values, unwavering dedication, and a heart full of love for his family. He grew up in Manitoba and received his early education at Fraser School and later attended high school in Elphinstone. In pursuit of his passion for mechanics, he ventured to Edmonton in 1950 to undertake a heavy-duty mechanics course. His skills and knowledge in this area would serve him well in his future endeavours as a farmer. After working at General Electric in Toronto in 1951, Dad returned to Manitoba and worked for the Canadian Pacific Railway. Eventually Dad returned to his roots to work on the family homestead, where he found his true calling.
In 1958, Dad married the love of his life, Anne Sawchuk, from Strathclair, Manitoba. Together, they raised three children, Raymond, Janice, and Dennis. Throughout the highs and lows of life, they always provided unwavering love and support. Dad was a dedicated husband and a loving father, putting his family above all else.
In his retirement years he enjoyed curling, golfing, bird watching and gardening. He also enjoyed the time he spent with his grandchildren in Winnipeg, who on numerous occasions would hide his car keys so he couldn’t go home! Dad was a member and volunteer of several organizations throughout his life, including the Rivers Ukrainian Society, The Rivers Lions Club and The Roman Catholic church. He was always willing to lend a hand to whoever needed it.
Throughout his life, Dad’s warm smile and kind heart touched the lives of all who knew him. His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of his family and friends. Dad will be remembered for his strength, integrity, and the love he shared with his family. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace, Dad, you will be deeply missed. Love you Big Guy!
Prayers will be held at Memories Chapel in Brandon, Manitoba on Thursday June 6, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the Roman Catholic Church in Rivers, Manitoba on June 7, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.
Rolling Dale Enterprises is looking for someone to deliver the Brandon Sun to Rivers customers on Saturdays starting June 8, 2024.
For more information about route size and payment please contact Tifani Gercama at 204-328-6305.
Family and friends of Gerri Allen are respectfully invited to attend the funeral service, which will be held at Rivers Community Church on June 7th , beginning at 1:00pm.
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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 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.mcna.com under the “Types of Advertising” tab for more details. HIRING? NEED CLASS 1 DRIVERS or Construction workers? 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
FEED & SEED / AGRICULTURAL
FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet
HAROLD
May 31
Contact the Rivers Banner to promote your special day 204-328-7494 ~ info@riversbanner.com
Show and Tea Saturday, June 1 2:00-4:00
All welcome!
It’s a sliding into home kinda day
A line drive hit by #8 Brody Robinson.
By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner
The team with the most runs wins and Hamiota was not leaving that to chance. Hamiota Red Sox outscored Reston Rockets 11-3 at the Sunday, May 26 game at 6pm.
The Reston Rockets scored their first run in the first inning and two runs in the fourth. The runs were made by Aiden Jasper, Brandin Ripley and Zac Janz.
The Red Sox’s scored seven runs in the first inning and four in the fifth inning. The runs were made by Joel Strachan (2), Justin Knight (2), Brody Robinson, Cale Murray, Colt Brooks, Hayden Crampain, Logan McGonigal, Taylor Madsen, and Ty Kirk.
Next games are Friday, May 31, Hamiota will be taking on Rivers Comets in Rivers, and Sunday, June 2, Hamiota will be home to play Boissevain Centennials.
Rivers Comets win first three games
continued from page 1
Rivers win 5-4 with a walkoff on Sunday May 26. If you came to the game, you were treated to a gem. Boissevain is historically one of the strongest teams in the league.
Boissevain got an early lead, but Rivers battled back. The game was tied at four after five innings and remained tied going into the bottom of the seventh. Leading off, Scott Beever reached on an error. Owen Wareham worked a walk. Luke Hrycak was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Layton Veitch hit a fly ball to centre field, Beever tagged and scored. This made a total of three RBIs for Veitch on the night.
Ryan Shaw was on the mound for Rivers, allowed three runs on four hits, over four innings. Fred Hrycak pitched three innings in relief giving up one unearned run on three hits, two K.
Zane Sawyer started on the mound for Boissevain, giving up four runs on six hits and six K over five innings. Connor Martin pitched a scoreless sixth inning. Brett Hammond pitched the seventh.
Both teams stranded nine base runners, so there was lots of action on the diamond. Rivers runs were scored by Mike McFadden (2), Scott Beever (2) and Alastair McFadden (1).
50/50 of $118 was won by Stan Runions. There is no gate admission, but you can purchase 50/50 tickets, so bring the kids or grandkids out to a game. We’d love to have some foul ball chasers!
On May 27, the young guns shone with Rivers 10 - Elkhorn 2 as the final score. Jase Wareham went 3 for 3 with 1 RBI and scored twice. Fred Hrycak went 3 for 4 with 2 RBIs and scored. Owen Wareham went 2 for 4 with 2 RBIs and scored.
Additional runs were scored by Nathan Espenell (2), Mike McFadden, Layne Anderson, and Alastair McFadden.
The offence was on fire tonight with a total of 11 hits, doubles coming from Owen Wareham, Mike McFadden and Scott Beever (3 RBIs). Additional RBIs came from Nathan Espenell and Alastair McFadden.
Owen Wareham pitched 4 innings giving up 1earned run on three hits, with 3K. Luke Hrycak pitched 2 innings in relief, allowing 1 earned run on 2 hits. Kailen Huibers closed, facing three batters and shutting them down. All three pitched for contact and the defence responded, only allowing 2 runs on 5 hits. Elkhorn stranded 10 runners.
Stan Runions won $85 in the 50/50 again. He tells us he won’t be at the next home game, so no ‘three-peat’.
The Comets next home game is Friday, May 31 vs Hamiota at 7pm.
PHOTO BY JESSICA COULTER
PHOTO BY JESSICA COULTER
Rivers Comet #4 Michael McFadden takes a swing and makes contact!
NDP block PC attempt to modernize retail liquor sales
Submitted
By Greg Nesbitt
Wab Kinew’s NDP continue to obstruct efforts to bring more consumer choice and convenience to Manitobans by opposing legislation to expand liquor retail offerings and services across the province.
More than half of all liquor sales in Manitoba is through licensed independent retailers. Those retailers contribute millions to the province to help fund hospitals, schools, and roads, as well as essential services like addictions treatment.
However, Manitoba’s outdated liquor laws unnecessarily restrict what type of products can be sold by private licensed retailers. For example, wine, spirits and craft beer can be sold in liquor outlets, while cases of beer are available at hotel vendors.
Manitoba PCs put forward another Bill to allow all licensed retailers to sell all products available through Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries as the provincial wholesaler but Wab Kinew’s NDP have blocked these efforts at every turn for the last eight years.
Progressive Conservatives believe expanding liquor retail in Manitoba is a win for consumers and it’s a win for entrepreneurs. It levels the playing field for independent businesses in Manitoba and encourages growth and competition in a fair and free market.
The cost of living in Manitoba continues to rise at an alarming rate, along with the frustration of Manitobans over the NDP government’s unwillingness to do anything to stop it.
Things continue to get worse for consumers in our province under the NDP. Manitoba’s food inflation soared to 3.3 per cent in March, hiking grocery prices higher and faster here than in Saskatchewan and On -
tario. Families are putting meat and vegetables back onto supermarket shelves because they can’t afford them any longer, and are looking to the premier for leadership that is nowhere in sight.
Where is Wab Kinew on his promise last year to lower food prices and to crack down on grocers who continue to raise them? The premier is saying little and doing less, and his tired talking points don’t help families cover the costs of groceries. This NDP government is giving Manitobans only empty rhetoric and false hope.
It’s the same lack of accountability from the NDP on taxation. Instead of investing properly in education, they are pushing school divisions to raise taxes on Manitoba families. As well, the NDP have capped an education property tax rebate at 2023 levels and ended a phase-out of education property taxes while increasing taxes on homeowners by $148 million.
Kinew’s lack of action on cost-of-living concerns is most glaring with the federal carbon tax. After flip-flopping a few times over whether he would join several other premiers in opposing the tax, he said and did nothing while it increased by 23 per cent in April. The premier’s failure to stand with Manitoba homeowners against the tax, particularly on home heating, comes as more than $143 million in carbon tax revenue is owed to over 43,000 small businesses province-wide. And Kinew has been silent on the federal government’s 44 per cent cut in carbon tax rebates to small businesses.
Manitobans need a lot more from their provincial government than the NDP’s brief gasoline tax break, which will end this fall. They need a government that takes real action to lower inflation or to help them handle it. What the NDP are doing, instead, is add -
ing to the burden with a $5-billion increase to the province’s net debt by the spring of next year. This soaring debt will lead to more NDP tax hikes. Instead of assistance and accountability on the ballooning cost of living, the NDP are giving Manitobans only rising taxes, increased provincial debt and empty promises.
Greg Nesbitt is the Member of Legislative Assembly for the Riding Mountain constituency. He can be reached at 204-759-3313, toll-free 1-844-877-7767 or by email at gregnesbittmla@mymts.net.
