September 20, 2024 by Rivers Banner

THE BLANCHARD

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Chamber of Commerce host free BBQ in Rivers

By Jessica Coulter Rivers Banner

Abeautiful end of summer day was the perfect backdrop for the Rivers and District Chamber of Commerce to host their Thank-you BBQ for the community on Saturday, September 14. The clouds were light and fluffy, the sky was a bright blue, and the sun was keeping everyone warm in the parking lot at the Rivers Legion.

Approximately 250 people were served delicious hotdogs, chips and drinks cooked on the BBQ on site by Dave

Falkevitch. All supplies for the BBQ were purchased by the Chamber of Commerce to thank the community for supporting local businesses. Residents enjoyed the BBQ while visiting with each other and stopping by local organizations that had tables set-up during the event.

“It was great to see so many community members come out and enjoy the first annual Chamber thank you BBQ,” says Shawn Mason, Rivers and District Chamber of Commerce President!

FAITHFULLY YOURS

Neil StrohScheiN

Tips for teachers, Part III

One of my High School Science teachers posted a sign above the blackboard in his home room. It contained one word: “THIMK.” The spelling mistake was intentional. It got the students’ attention. It also conveyed a message they needed to hear.

I was privileged to take several classes from this teacher during my Junior High and High School years. What I remember most was how he encouraged us to think, to plan ahead, to consider the consequences of possible actions before making decisions and especially to learn how to recognize and solve potential problems before they became crises that threatened the health and well being of ourselves and others.

I will never forget one specific lesson in which he showed us how sound scientific research, careful thought and decisive action addressed the effects of one of the worst natural disasters western Canada has ever known.

He began by asking if any of us had heard of the “Dirty 30s.” Of course we all had. Most of our parents had been born and raised in those years and we were living with the frugalities they imposed on us-all intended, as they said, to help us save money so that we would have what we needed to see us through times of job loss, extended illness or

other tragedy. While our teacher applauded those efforts, he wanted us to focus on something else.

Over the next 2-3 weeks, we were introduced to concepts like crop rotation, green manure, using natural fertilizer (of which our cattle and pigs produced tons each year) and leaving straw on the land after harvest to assist in soil conservation and improve soil quality. We were also introduced to federal government programs like Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA) and others that were specifically set up to help prairie farmers rebuild their farms, their businesses and their lives.

I wasn’t aware of the impact these lessons had on my life until last week, when I was struggling to get a newly purchased piece of hardware to work on my computer. There was nothing wrong with the hardware itself. I plugged it in. The computer recognized it. The required driver was installed and it passed all diagnostic tests. But it wouldn’t work for one specific application; and I needed the hardware to work so the app would work properly.

The solution turned out to be quite simple. I was exceedingly happy to see how everything, once connected properly, worked properly. I was exceedingly unhappy when I learned that it took me 4.5 hours to discover that simple, 15 second fix. Looking back, I wonder how much time I wasted because I didn’t take time to “THIMK” before I acted.

Today’s students face peer pressures, temptations and challenges that were unknown to my generation. But we share one thing in common with today’s students. Parents, grand parents, teachers and other caregivers are not omni-present. We cannot be everywhere at once. In fact, most of today’s students will have more unsupervised time

at a far younger age than we ever did. That’s why it is very important that they learn, as early in life as they can, to do what my Science teacher subtly taught us to do-to “THIMK”-actually to think before we act-to consider the possible consequences of our actions, and then decide if we want to adopt this attitude or engage in this activity. I had dedicated teachers who did this for me. I pray that today’s students will have dedicated teachers who will do the same thing for them.

Locally created crossword

Perspectives

Tundra

By Chad Carpenter

Just waiting for them to die!

It’s not uncommon to have to wait many months or even a year for a CT Scan or an MRI. Even an Ultrasound can take a long time.

In spite of all the valiant efforts of health care workers, doctors, nurses and specialists to provide timely diagnostics and treatment, the system is faltering and even failing.

The ultimate fall back position in health care in Manitoba seems to be “Just wait until they die.” And it’s happening. People are dying while waiting for timely diagnostics and treatment.

There’s lots of blame to spread around but it is mostly due to a hidebound system in Manitoba that clings to the idea that the government has to pay for, ration out and control all things health care. It isn’t that way in all provinces. In Manitoba you can’t “buy” a CT scan for example. That’s because the bureaucracy has the politicians convinced that privately paid for health care is in contravention of the Canada Health Act. That’s obviously bull—t but it seems no party or politician has the courage to step out and state the obvious. If you can buy privately provided diagnosis in Alberta (and dare I say Quebec), why can’t we do it in Manitoba?

So what does it cost to get a CT Scanner like the one many are asking be put in Neepawa’s new Regional Hospital? Here’s what the Province of Manitoba said in a news release about the recently installed CT unit at Swan River. “The province provided more than $2 million in capital funding for the purchase and installation of the new CT scanner, as well as renovations of a space at the healthcare facility. This was matched by a contribution of more than $1 million from the Town of Swan River

Ken Waddell Right in the Centre

and surrounding communities. The province will also provide funding for the operating costs of the CT scanner, approximately $400,000 per year.” So $3 million for the unit?? It’s interesting to note that an internet search says you can but a CT unit for $300,000. That makes sense, everything the government buys is at double or triple what it should cost.

Here’s another telling bit of information. Over 6,000 Canadian trained doctors work in the United States while only 800 US trained doctors work in Canada. That means Canada has paid for a share of the training of over 6000 doctors but they all left and only 800 came in. That’s a bad deal that even a bureaucrat should be able to figure out.

The relatively newly elected NDP government says they are running short of money and that likely is true. They have cancelled some projects and certainly show no progress on diagnostics and treatment.

The answer is obvious and that is to open the big grey doors on those buildings that house the bureaucracy and let private investment build diagnostic and treatment capacity. Manitobans are driving to Grafton and Grand Forks North Dakota and reportedly getting tests done in a week or less. Why can’t we do that in Manitoba?

Because it’s easier to “Just wait for

them to die” than to break out of stupidly reasoned traditions. Manitoba is so hide-bound in mediocrity and tradition that it’s not only killing innovation, it’s killing people.

Let private investment for an MRI, CT Scan or any other equipment that will improve the health of our people.

Not only will people die with the “Just wait for them to die” method, the province and its healthcare system will die as well.

People have money, let them invest it. Many years ago, a man I knew was desperate to get his wife the back surgery she badly needed. They were told by their Manitoba specialist that she would be wheel-chair bound before she would get surgery in Manitoba. The man put a mattress in their mini-van, drove her to the Mayo Clinic and she had her surgery within three days. She recovered and went back to work in the family farming business. One neighbour noted that farmer usually bought a new combine every few years, but wouldn’t be able to do that now. The farmer’s answer was direct. He said, “ I don’t care if I never have another new combine, I have my wife back.”

Let’s turn to private investment, even if it’s just in diagnostics. We have nothing to lose but a few bureaucrats who will be proven wrong very quickly.

Rita Friesen Homebodies

After apple picking...

This line is from a poem by that title written by Robert Frost, one of my all time favourite poets. I had not thought of his words, images and phrases for too long. As I processed countless apples from the tree in my back yard- processed with gratitude may I add-bits of this writing came to mind. Those thoughts niggled around until I went and found my copy of some of his works and sank deep into the cadence and meaning of ‘After Apple Picking’.

‘And there’s a barrel that I didn’t fill, beside it there may be two or three apples that I didn’t pick upon some bough’. The images of apple picking are paralleled to aging and death. Looking back I also see barrels unfilled and apples missed. I am thankful for all that I have and all that I am; there have been missed opportunities.

‘My instep arch not only keeps the ache, it keeps the pressure of the ladder-round’. I feel life. I carry the feel long after the event has passed, the pressure of life and living has formed aspects of my nature and personality. I feel the genes that formed me; industry, integrity, a thirst for knowledge, an awareness of the Creator and all creation and responsibility. Those are just some of the formative forces.

‘For I have had too much of apple-picking: I am overtired of the great harvest I myself desired. There were ten thousand thousand fruits to touch, cherish in hand, lift down and not let fall. For all that struck the earth, no matter if not bruised or spiked with stubble, went surely to the cider-apple heap as of no worth.’ Amen. As careful as we are, as careful as I am, in living, there are slips and regrets; I wish no apple on the apple-cider heap.

These are the thoughts of the poet as he prepares for a night’s rest; recapping the day, reflecting and anticipating rest. ‘ One can see what will trouble this sleep of mine, whatever sleep it is. Were he not gone, the woodchuck could say whether it’s like his long sleep, as I describe it’s coming on, or just some human sleep.’

It’s the end of September, and if all goes as it should, October will follow. One year ago I bid farewell to a good man who loved me well, as I loved him, for six years. Ten years ago in October I bid farewell to a good man who loved me well, as I loved him, for forty years. I see the beauty of the autumn season. I see the changing of the landscapes, losing it’s lushness and preparing for a prolonged rest. I see and feel the impending winter even while adoring each day. I refer to September and October as my season of solemnity, not overly sad, more introspective and reflective. And thankful: so thankful for the abundant harvest of ‘apples’, experiences and happenings of ordinary living. Aware, always, of the bruised apples destined for apple cider. Ready for the long sleep but neither longing for, nor looking for it- the tree has more treasures.

A few weeks ago, our 8-month-old hardly slept. We are talking every hour on the hour, screaming inconsolably.

The combination of sleep deprivation and desperation had my husband and I snapping at each other. Tears rolling down my cheeks I said to him, ‘I wish he would just grow out of this so we can sleep already!’

Well, low and behold, I very quickly ate my words because the very following week he began hitting milestone after milestone. Mastering new skills each day until my husband looked at me, wistfully watching him play. He said, ‘Why does he look so big all of a sudden?’

My stomach sank as I thought back to the moments I wished away because exhaustion got the better of me.

I had wished him bigger, then I blinked, and it was so.

He was sleeping through the night, crawling on all fours instead of the sweet army crawl he had been sporting for months now. The odd babble that we had found so endearing was replaced by very specific sounds that mimicked his older brother’s chatter. He was pulling himself up on furniture and slowly teetering forward into the stepping motion that, before I know it, will inevitably turn into walking to keep up with three older brothers. I sat and watched him, and this poem whispered across my heart. “Cleaning and scrubbing can wait till tomorrow, for babies

grow up, we’ve learned to our sorrow. So quiet down cobwebs, dust go to sleep, I’m rocking my baby and babies don’t keep.”

I looked around with tears filling my eyes, watching my four sons and realized once again just how true this was.

Knowing that I would forget again just how quickly time goes by, I willed myself to sit in this moment.

I held my 8-month-old and looked him in the eyes as he looked up at me with such pure love. I soaked in my 9-year-olds boyish features, his dimples that grew deeper every year that passed. My 7-year-olds sweet gap tooth grin and blue eyes that still filled with wonder when his dad played tricks on him.

My 3-year-olds floppy sun-bleached hair, laughing in pure delight as his contagious toddler giggles filled our home and brought us all to our knees gasping for breath!

My husband and I made the decision that day, to remind each other OFTEN how quickly our household will go from boys to men, from mama to mom, from crawling into the safety of our bed to handling it on their own, from us being their favourite people in the world to their horizons expanding past our home and to soak in every second we can with them while they are little.

If you have little ones at home, or teenagers, or in-betweeners or toddlers that make you want to pull your hair out.

The dishes will wait, your children will never be this age on this day again, they will only grow older and bigger.

So, dishes be quiet, dust go to sleep. I am soaking in my babies, and babies don’t keep!

Burnout Epidemic: The Silent Struggle in Today’s Workforce

Greetings everyone and I’m so happy to be back and writing again. The break that I took, although longer than expected, was necessary to prevent burnout, an important topic that doesn’t get enough attention. Burnout is a state of complete mental, emotional and physical exhaustion that is caused when we take on too much. Burnout is characterized by many symptoms such as chronic exhaustion, a lack of interest or detachment from your personal or work life and a chronic feeling of overwhelm. According to the Center for Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH) stress and burnout are related but present very differently. Stress presents as someone being over-reactive and hyperactive whereas burnout presents as disengagement and a loss of motivation.

If you notice that you are experiencing symptoms of burnout, ask yourself the following questions:

1) I s there anything in my life that I can temporarily step away from?

2) I s there anything I can give up entirely?

3) I s there anything that I can do less than perfectly?

4) I s there anything that I can delegate?

Your Listening Ear

Delsie Martin

every morning before you go to work. Sometimes our brains only show us the negative things about our jobs, and we selectively forget what is good. Most importantly, seek out help from a qualified counsellor. They will help you to prioritize, minimize and put your mental health first. We want to feel like superheroes and take on everything. We don’t want to disappoint anyone. We want to live up to our fullest potential. These are things that maintain burnout. Society glorifies burnout. Imagine if you will someone coming home from work saying, “Man, I worked so hard today, I’m exhausted and I feel like I could drop”, this would be applauded by others. We are increasingly connected to the world and because we

have our emails on our phones and phones with us all the time, we don’t even get a break after work hours. Overtime is becoming common place, rather than a rarity. There are lots of things that maintain burnout in our society. What about switching the rhetoric and asking ourselves, “What did I do to take care of myself today?” or applauding someone saying, “I worked my day today and didn’t work myself to the point of exhaustion.” Let’s protect one another from burnout. Check in on your friends, check in on your loved ones. By fostering a culture of balance, self-care and open dialogue we can create environments where people can thrive both professionally and personally.

Summer Ministry Sunday, September 29 5:30-8:00pm

You will want to withdraw from the world, this is a normal feeling but is the last thing you should do. Reach out and seek connection. Make sure that you are socializing with your coworkers. It helps it feel less like you are isolated. Exercise is important to boost your mood. I’m not saying you must start a regular gym routine today but even a 15-minute walk on your break can make a huge difference. Make a list of what you like about your job. Review that list

TURTLE MOUNTAIN BIBLE CAMP

Adults only due to limited seating (max 200)

To register call 204-747-2587 or visit website www.tmbc.ca

RSVP deadline is September 15

Please RSVP

Come hear God stories and camp testimonies, plus a special recognition of Menno & Brenda Bartsch in appreciation for faithful service at TMBC.

Sponsor a table - $160

Funds raised will go towards event costs. All other donations will go towards the winterized accommodation project.

Donations of $20 or more are tax receiptable & can be done by e-transfer to: info@tmbc.ca (please note funds for capital project) or cash or credit card.

Tara Kauenhofen

Babies don’t keep

Study tips for a strong start in school

Submitted

By Metro Creative

Studying is vital to academic performance. At the dawn of a new school year, students get a fresh start to improve upon or continue strong their study habits. Teachers will be rolling out their curricula, and that may feel overwhelming. However, optimizing study skills can boost confidence in school and in areas outside of the classroom. These study tips can put students on a path for success.

· Find your optimal study space. The ideal study spot varies from student to student. Some need a quiet nook in the library, while others may prefer the sounds of nature while seated on a park bench. There’s no one-size-fits-all study location, so students may need to experiment with what works best for them. Also, The Princeton Review says that a student doesn’t need just one study space. He or she may find a change of scenery can prompt the brain to retain information better.

· Devise a study plan. Setting goals and a plan of attack allows students to space out their studying over several days. This can reduce stress and make the task seem less cumbersome.

· Avoid cram sessions. Devising a study plan is bet -

ter than cramming the night before a test. The American Psychological Association says students may perform well on a test for which they’ve crammed, but that doesn’t mean they’ve truly learned the material. Studying with a goal of retaining the material long-term is important.

· Learn how to actively study. Some students think that studying requires reading over the material or highlighting text. Active studying involves engaging with the material and constructing meaning from the text. One way to engage with the material is to try acting as the teacher and explaining concepts to another person. Creating a study guide or even concept maps also helps one actively study.

drawn-out studying.

· Balance intensity with laid-back study approaches. Students may procrastinate with their studying because they don’t want to devote a lot of time to the task. Instead, they can do shorter sessions mixed with longer sessions of studying. In fact, The Learning Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill says shorter, intensive study time can be more effective than

Academic performance can be affected by eyesight

Submitted

By Metro Creative

Many variables affect students’ academic performance. These include a willingness to learn, students’ attentiveness, having a great teacher, and kids’ commitment to studying and doing homework. One component of academic performance can be easily overlooked: eyesight.

The M.M. Joshi Eye Institute in India says vision problems in children can affect studies and restrict students’ academic development. Academic performance is directly linked to the ability to see clearly, as vision affects reading, writing, comprehension, and classroom participation. Clarendon Vision Development Center of Illinois advises that a substantial part of a child’s education is acquired through visual processing. When that vision is impaired, it can hinder the ability to learn and absorb information effectively. Impaired eyesight may cause students to struggle and fall behind. This ultimately can lead to a lack of engagement in classwork and ultimately make them

consider giving up, particularly when a student is unaware that it is eyesight and not another factor affecting their ability to learn. Furthermore, poor grades may cause parents to mistakenly conclude a child has a learning disability or is slacking off.

The relationship between eyesight and education underscores the significance of routine eye exams. Intervention can help prevent poor academic performance. Infants often get their first comprehensive eye exams around zero to six months of age. By age three, children should have a second eye exam, says Medical Optometry America. Around age five or six, children should receive a third comprehensive eye exam, just before entering school. Eye

· Ask for help. Asking a teacher or another student for help is not a sign of weakness. It’s a good strategy to develop early on. The longer one waits, the more difficult it may be to catch up on material. Asking for help goes hand-in-hand with setting up a buddy system for studying. Study groups enable students to go over material together, which can provide different perspectives and help the material resonate more effectively.

Students will spend a lot of time studying while in school. Learning how to do it effectively is vital to fulfilling one’s academic potential.

exams should then be scheduled at least every two years. These guidelines can be adjusted if any vision problems are detected and more frequent exams are needed.

Eyesight plays a key role in a child’s ability to learn and excel in school.

Welcome Back! Students, parents, staff, & community members

By Mike Klassen Principal at RCI

Welcome back. We are now approximately two weeks into the 2024-25 school year and look forward to working with our returning and new Rivers Collegiate students.

This year, we are navigating through a new provincial Cell Phone Policy and working with students and families to make this work within our rural setting. This policy will be challenging for some people; however, we feel the long-term benefits will far outweigh the negative.

Several sporting events have already begun early on this fall including Sr. High Golf & Volleyball as well as Jr. High Soccer & X-Country Running.

Meet the teachers

Rivers Collegiate

Mike Klassen – Principal; Pam Jubinville - Administrative Assistant; Angela Roberts – Teacher; Taryn Luhowy – Teacher; Jeff Maxwell –Teacher; Curt Cornish – Teacher; Tess Stevenson – Teacher; Christina Gray – Teacher; Lenea Goriak – Teacher; David Wolfe – Teacher; Michaela Halls – Teacher; Wendy Harder – Teacher; Danielle Pilatic –Teacher; Leah Jago – Teacher; Patti Kent - Student Support Facilitator; Kerry Veitch - Librarian & Educational Assistant; Shauna PaddockEducational Assistant; Madisen Kirton - Educational Assistant; Anita Krahn – Educational Assistant; Kathy Bishop – Educational Assistant; Carissa Hengen - School Social Worker

Elton Collegiate

Mark Geekie – Principal; Steven Dyck – Teacher/Principal; Tracy LeitchAdministrative Assistant; Cally Brown – Teacher; Shandel Chartrand – Teacher; Lauren Jarvie – Teacher; Leslie Kowalchuk – Teacher; Cindy Nylen – Teacher; Chad Paradis – Teacher; Theresa Payette – Teacher; Shara Sanko – Teacher; Cory Stocks – Teacher; Jim Shaw – Teacher; Sherri Thom – Librarian; Cheryl Champion - Educational Assistant; Cindy Heino - Educational Assistant; Kristen Wozney –Student Support Facilitator; Sandra Wilkins - Career Preparation Coordinator;

Hamiota Collegiate

Mrs. B. Ardeil-Voth – Principal; Mrs. K. Whelpton – Teacher; Mrs. J. Madsen – Teacher; Mr. J. Crampain – Teacher; Mrs. K. Kirk – Teacher; Mrs. T. Huberdeau – Resource; Mr. K. Johnston – Teacher; Mrs. M. Mitchell – Teacher; Mrs. S. Blanshard – Teacher; Mr. C. Obach – Teacher; Mr. C. Smith – Teacher; Ms. M. Chichlowski – Teacher; Mrs. D. Brown – Teacher; Mrs. T. Crampton - Educational Assistant; Mrs. G. Graham - Educational Assistant; Mrs. M. Martinook - Educational Assistant; Mrs. K. Patterson - Educational Assistant; Ms. Leah Bootsman - Educational Assistant; Mrs. Sara Salmi - Educational Assistant; Mrs. P. Lints – Librarian; Mrs. A. English - Divisional Speech Pathologist; Mrs. K. Hawkins - Secretary

Rapid City Elementary

Stephanie Hofer – Principal; Christina Dufault - Administrative Assistant / Librarian; Megan Belisle – Teacher; Jolie Bootsman – Teacher; Graham Edwards – Teacher; Jodi Hrymak – Teacher; Louise MacDonald – Teacher; Jennifer Pilling – Teacher; Jennifer Rempel – Teacher; Kendra Walker –Teacher; Jackie English - Educational Assistant; Sally Evans - Educational Assistant; Christa Fleury – Educational Assistant; Shirley Martin –Educational Assistant; Tracy Oliver - Educational Assistant

Meet the teachers

Oak River Elementary

Steven Dyck – Principal / Teacher; Marci Shachtay - Administrative Assistant / Librarian; Jacqueline Schoonbaert – Teacher; Trinity Miller - Educational Assistant; Graham Edwards –Gym teacher

Rivers Elementary School

Garnet Kinney – Principal; Sheri McMurachy – Administrative Assistant; Barbara Carmichael – Teacher; Lesley Creighton –Teacher; Lacey Cote – Teacher; Carrie Ramsey – Teacher; Farryn Ryckman – Teacher; Allison Hamm – Teacher; Graham Edwards – Teacher; James Edwards – Teacher; Ryan Lamb – Teacher; Janet Rankin – Teacher; Duncan Martin – Music Teacher; Cody Wieler –Phys. Ed. Teacher; Lorraine Hodgson – Resource; Carissa Hengen –School Social Worker; Shauna Tait – Educational Assistant; Yvonne

Crouch – Educational Assistant; Jennifer Brown – Educational Assistant; Patricia Kuby – Educational Assistant; Alyssa Zacharias – Educational Assistant; Xi Gao – Educational Assistant; LeeAnne Fletcher –Library & Educational Assistant;

Forrest Elementary

Chad Stiles – Principal; Wendi Rioux - Administrative Assistant; Brooke Bayes – Teacher; Corinne Topham – Teacher; Cory Stocks – Teacher; Erika Fjeldsted – Teacher; Keely Dyck – Teacher; Kelly Koshowski – Teacher; Leslie Kowalchuk – Teacher; Lisa Lobb – Teacher; Louise MacDonald – Teacher; Rhonda Jones – Teacher; Shandel Chartrand – Teacher; Shawn Ryckman – Teacher; Todd Foster – Teacher; Tracey Drozda – Teacher; Tyson Buskell - Teacher; Tracy Schroeder - Librarian; Cheryl-Ann Roberds - Educational Assistant; Hannah Van Schie – Educational Assistant; Jennifer Katcsma –Educational Assistant; Judy Heeney – Educational Assistant; Rebekkah Miller - Educational Assistant; Donna Wilson - Speech / Language Pathologist; Kristen Wozney - Student Support Facilitator;

Hamiota Elementary

Kaitlyn Ramsey – Teacher; Faye Nowosad –Teacher; Charlene Allan – Teacher; Michelle McNabb – Teacher; Chelsey Kostesky – Teacher; Lindsay Routledge – Teacher; Hayley Lamb –Teacher; Ryan Coughlan – Teacher; Janice Norrie – Resource; Kevin Salmi – Principal; Rebecca Thompson – Teacher; Karlee Lee - Educational Assistant; Rosemarie Workman - Educational Assistant; Suzanne Nernberg – Secretary; Erin Johns –Librarian; Anne McTavish - Educational Assistant; Dialyn Yecyec - Educational Assistant;

Message from Elton Collegiate

By Mark Geekie Principal at Elton Collegiate

We are off to another great start at Elton! Our enrollment continues to climb. We are up to 152 students now. We welcomed over 40 grade 9’s this year, along with some other new students in other grades. The students are settling into their classes, and everything seems to be going really well. The school has a really nice “feel.” Elton is a great place to be!

We are offering a few classes that we haven’t offered in a while, or some that we have never offered including Exercise Science, Current Topics in Indigenous Studies, Agriculture, and Global Issues. Our compulsory courses are divided into two sections to optimize teacher-student ratios. We have a variety of groups and clubs that students can join at Elton. One of those is the SRC (student representative council). This is an opportunity for kids to get involved in student government and have some input into school events and activity planning. The SRC have already held their first couple of meetings. We also offer Youth in Philanthropy and a drama club.

Sports are underway already. We sent a golf team to Neepawa for the zone golf championship. We have four volleyball teams that have already started practicing. Our senior girls team competed in the Gilbert Plains tournament and placed 4th. Here are our home tournament dates:

Sep. 20&21 – Senior Girls

Sep. 27&28 – JV Girls

Oct. 18&19 – Senior Boys

Oct. 26 – JV Boys

Our Undergrad Awards are taking place on Tuesday, Sep. 24 at 2:30 p.m. in the gym. Everyone is invited! Our open house will follow from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. We hope to see you there!

Harvesting and Storage

Submitted

By Patricia Hanbidge

As September continues, gardeners are still eating and processing the harvest from their gardens. It is extremely important when harvesting fruits and vegetables from the garden to ensure that the field heat is removed from the harvested produce as soon as possible. If it suits your timetable, pick prior to the heat of the day so that the produce is as cool as possible.

Hopefully, you have been processing and picking the excess throughout the summer as it is important to put food away while it is at the peak of quality. Carefully pick to ensure that the harvest is free of nicks, bruises and other damage, so that you are putting away the best quality of food. If there is damage to the fruit and vegetables you are picking, then those should be consumed at the dinner table as soon as possible rather than stored for winter.

Much of what we harvest, we do not have to process so it is important to understand the proper storage conditions for what you are harvesting. The temperature and the relative humidity (RH) are the main considerations when considering storage of non-processed fruit and vegetables. There are three basic types of storage: cold and dry (0 to 5C and 65% RH), cool and moist (0 to 10C with 95% RH), and warm and dry (10C and 60% RH).

Please note that these are optimal conditions for storage and any temperatures or humidity that are different than these optimal conditions will shorten your shelf life. Our basements are generally cool and dry during our colder months and our home refrigerators can be considered cold and dry. Putting vegetables in perforated plastic bags will give a good short-term storage option for those that require cold and moist

Additions to the Voters List and/or Personal Security Protection Requests

In accordance with Section 36 of The Municipal Councils and School Boards Election Act (MCSBEA), the Rural Municipality of Oakview Voters List is open for changes or revisions.

• Any person who is eligible to vote in municipal elections in the Local Authority of Rural Municipality of Oakview can have his or her name added to the Voters List, or have any information about the voter on the Voters List corrected.

• Any person can request to have his or her name and address obscured from the Voters List.

• A person whose name has been obscured will receive a Personal Security Certificate and identification number. That person may only vote by Sealed Envelope Ballot and cannot vote in person at the regular or advance voting places.

To implement the above, a written request must be submitted to the Senior Election Official, in person, by e-mail, or mail to:

Name of Local Authority: Rural Municipality of Oakview

Address: Rural Municipality of Oakview 10 Cochrane Street PO Box 179 Oak River, MB R0K 1T0

Phone: 204-566-2146

E-mail: adminrc@rmofoakview.ca

Mark Humphries, Senior Election Official

conditions. If you are lucky enough to have a root cellar, then you can likely easily store potatoes for the entire winter and beyond. Do note that any type of storage does need to provide ventilation as the vegetables are still respiring and thus are producing moisture. Ensure you clean the storage facility prior to storing any products and ensure that there are no potential rodent infestations. On the prairies, we can produce as good an apple as the Okanagan or the Annapolis Valley. If you have space, then ensure you always have apple trees in your garden. There are many dwarf cultivars that can be grown if space is limited. Ensure that you choose cultivars in regard to the purpose of your processing or storage. Early apples generally need some type of processing, while later season apples will have a better storability without processing. To store your apples, keep them in store best in the dark at a temperature just above freezing. A covering of perforated poly will help to prevent shrivelling. As apples exude ethylene gas ensure you do not store them with leafy green or cole crops as those crops are damaged by exposure to ethylene.

Carrots, cabbage, beets, parsnips, new potatoes, peppers, cantaloupe, watermelon, beans and rutabagas like cool/cold, moist conditions with good ventilation. Ensure that these crops go into storage when they have dried thoroughly. Beets, parsnips, carrots, cabbage, beans, peppers and rutabagas will lose moisture readily so cover them with perforated poly. They do well at the bottom end of the range at 0 to 5C. Potatoes will keep the best quality if they are stored at about 4 C when mature. Tomatoes like to be stored a bit warmer at about 10 to 15C. All of these vegetables should be stored in the dark.

Peppers, pumpkins, squash and sweet potatoes should be stored in warm, dry conditions.

Garlic and onions prefer cold and dry storage conditions. If you happen to be harvesting seed for next year, most seed will store best if it has matured appropriately, cleaned and then stored in cold, dry conditions.

Hope you have a great harvest!

Meeting minutes from RM of Elton - Sept. 4, 2024 - DRAFT

Submitted

RM of Elton

Present: Reeve Ches Bollman. Councillors Neil Waldner, Gregg Campbell, Rod Paterson, Wes Pankratz, Cameron Hales and Melissa Bromley Chief Administrative Officer, Shawna LeBlanc and Administrative Assistant, Jennifer Sutherland, Public Works Operator Kerry Moorehead.

Moorehead reported that gravelling is scheduled to be complete for Ward 3 this week. Bluestar Construction still needs to complete their contracted roadwork with the deadline for completing the work being September 27, 2024.

Campbell/Hales-BE

IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Elton expresses concern regarding the proposed installation of an 83-meter wireless telecommunications tower at 105063 Hwy #1, due to its proximity to the highway.

Carried

Pankratz-Paterson-BE

IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Elton hereby approve Variation Order No. VO-002-24-E to reduce the minimum front yard setback from 125’ to 31.75’ in the Agricultural General Zone on NW 20-12-17 WPM for Barry Nevin (Owner/ Applicant). Carried

Hales/Campbell-BE

IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Elton hereby approve Variation Order No. VO-003-24-E to reduce the minimum front yard setback for an Accessory Building (Quonset) from 125’ to 5’ in the Agricultural General Zone on NW 20-12-17 WPM for Barry Nevin (Owner/Applicant). Carried 9.5 VARIATION ORDER - VO-004-24-E (NEVIN) 2024-201

Paterson/Bromley-BE

IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Rural

Municipality of Elton hereby approve Variation Order No. VO-004-24-E to reduce the minimum front yard setback for an Accessory Building (Grain Bin) from 125’ to 18’ in the Agricultural General Zone on NW 20-1217 WPM for Barry Nevin (Owner/Applicant). Carried

Pankratz/Campbell-BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Elton hereby approve Conditional Use Order No. CU-003-24-E on Pt. of the NW 20-1217 WPM for Barry Nevin Owner/Applicant to establish a non-farm dwelling within the “AG80” Agricultural General Zone by the way of Subdivision. Carried Waldner/Campbell-BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Elton hereby approve Conditional Use Order No. CU-004-24-E on Pt. of the SE 04-11-17 WPM for Harold Friesen, Applicant; and Vernon Buhr, Owner to permit a Storage Sea Can business on the property. Carried

ACCOUNTS

APPROVED

Campbell/WaldnerBE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Elton hereby accept and file the Financial Statement for the month ended July 31, 2024, as presented.

Carried

Hales/Pankratz-BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Elton hereby approves General Cheque Nos. 12988 to 13020 in the amount of $31,961.25; and Direct Withdrawals in the amount of $48,887.61 for a total of $80,848.86.

Carried Council gave second and third reading to amend By-Law No. 1651 (Prevention and Control of Wildland Fires - Burning). Carried Campbell/Hales-BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Rural

Municipality of Elton hereby rescind Policy No. 34-2013, Fire Pit Policy (Villages) as per the recommendation of the Bylaw and Policy Committee. Carried Hales/Campbell WHEREAS the Provincial Assessment Office has forwarded assessment changes to be added or deleted from the 2024 Assessment Roll dated August 31, 2024; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council of the Rural Municipality of Elton hereby authorize additions in the amount of $6,877.82 and deletions in the amount of $1,497.59 to the appropriate taxes for the 2024 tax roll. Carried

ADDITIONAL POLICING COVERAGE

WHEREAS the Blue Hills area has experienced significant population growth and economic activity in recent years, leading to an increase in crime rates and public safety concerns; AND WHEREAS the current RCMP detachment in the Blue Hills area, despite their commendable efforts, is increasingly stretched thin and struggling to meet the demands of the expanding community;

AND WHEREAS there has been a notable rise in property crimes, traffic violations, and domestic disturbances in the area, exacerbated by the rural nature of the community, which presents unique challenges for law enforcement due to the vast geographic area that must be covered;

AND WHEREAS the expansion of the Blue Hills detachment’s coverage to include an additional municipality will now strain RCMP resources, increasing the coverage area to over 2,200 square miles and adding over 3,000 residents to their responsibilities, thereby impeding response times and limiting proactive policing efforts; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) strongly urges the province and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to increase the number of RCMP

officers assigned to the Blue Hills area to ensure adequate law enforcement coverage and enhance public safety;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the AMM calls upon the provincial government to provide the necessary resources and support to the RCMP to facilitate this increase in personnel, thereby ensuring that the growing population and geographic challenges of the Blue Hills area are effectively addressed.

WARD, REEVE & ADMINISTRATION REPORTS

Councillor Waldner reported that the modem at the Douglas Transfer Site is not responding. Starlink Internet has been replaced with a Rogers 5G Hub, and the connection issue with the cameras is currently being diagnosed.

Councillor Campbell inquired about the status of ditch cleanouts and culvert replacements in Ward 1, as well as what

is still required to obtain a provincial drainage license.

Reeve Bollman reported that the grass in the ditches along PR468 is severely overgrown and presents a safety hazard. He proposed that Administration ask the province to prioritize trimming along PR468 from the Village of Justice to Highway 353 or if they would be in favour of having Elton cut it due to safety concerns.

CAO LeBlanc presented a verbal report.

Councillor Pankratz reported that our bank balance is $1,555,541.95 as of September 4, 2024 (balance includes Utility funds that still require to be transfer into respective accounts).

Waldner-Campbell-BE IT RESOLVED that Council of the Rural Municipality of Elton hereby authorize CAO Shawna LeBlanc, Administrative Assistant Christy Burdeniuk, Councillor Paterson and MEC Scott Price to attend the 2024 Manitoba Disaster

Management Conference October 16-18, 2024, at the Canad Inns in Winnipeg; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that registration and normal out of pocket expenses be authorized as per Policy 24-2012. Carried

Councillor Campbell reported that the front tire on the tractor needed replacing in August and that Elton’s Green Truck was also sent in for servicing.

Councillor Campbell reported that the Keystone Planning District Development Plan was given second reading and is now awaiting approval from the Minister.

Councillor Hales reported that the next WERWC meeting is scheduled for Friday, September 6, 2024. The lagoon expansion project is progressing, but the discharge valve has developed a leak and required repair.

Councillor Hales reported that the test holes were successful at Moore’s pit.

Rivers Police Service update from Riverdale Municipality

Submitted

By RM of Riverdale

September 13, 2024 - As you may be aware in the spring Rivers Police Service faced significant staffing challenges and in order to ensure the safety of our citizens, the municipality requested the RCMP to provide supplementary coverage while recruitment efforts continued. Meetings were held between the municipality and Manitoba Justice, Policing Services & Public Safety to form a temporary arrangement between the RCMP and Rivers Police Service to implement RCMP providing supplementary coverage for Riverdale Municipality. It was discussed that this agreement would be in place for the remainder of 2024, there would be no charge, nor would there be a change in the annual operating grant.

While implementing the changes with supplementary coverage, Riverdale Municipality received another request to meet with representatives from Manitoba Justice, Policing Services & Public Safety. This meeting was held on May 24th, 2024 and at this time provincial representatives notified Council that any future plan for policing in Riverdale Municipality will require provincial review; a detailed implementation plan for a new service, detailing staffing and resource strategies, and how the service will comply with the upcoming implementation of Manitoba’s Policing Standards. Riverdale Municipality cannot move forward with an implementation plan for the Rivers Police Service until such time as the Manitoba Policing Standards are released. We have been provided no information regarding the expected release date of these standards and would refer all questions on this to the Province of Manitoba, Justice Public Safety Division.

Written correspondence from Manitoba Justice was received June 18th, 2024, confirming that the Rivers Police Service has ceased operations and as per Section 14(1) of Manitoba’s Police Services Act, unless the Riverdale Municipality, as a rural municipality, operates its own police service or contracts with another municipal or regional police service, the Minister is required to ensure policing is provided. With this being said, RCMP “D” Division assumed formal jurisdiction on May 25th, 2024.

Rivers Police Service was still in operation during budget deliberations and the municipality was moving forward with active recruiting for all positions up until the municipality was notified that RCMP “D” Division had assumed full jurisdiction. The Police Special Ser-

vice Levy included on the 2024 property tax statements is necessary to cover the costs of the department for this year. Riverdale Municipality is currently finalizing contracts and agreements to minimize the expenses for the department. The special service levy will be reviewed and repealed for future years following the mandated legislation of the Manitoba Municipal Act. Council and administration are currently lobbying the province for confirmation on what amount, if anything, Riverdale Municipality will receive for the 2024 Urban Policing Grant. Furthermore, the municipality is committed to managing the remaining assets of the Rivers Police Service. Without confirmation on what the Manitoba’s Policing Standards will be in the new Police Service Act, it is anticipated that in order to

have a return of the River’s Police Service, Manitoba Justice will require Riverdale to have an updated facility, new equipment, updated training standards and increased salaries with a detailed plan on how we will meet these new standards.

Currently the municipality is committed to responsible disposition where possible, including exploring the possibility of sale to other polices services to recover the investment made by the residents of Riverdale Municipality.

For emergencies, please call 9-1-1.

Non-emergent police matter please call 204-7267522, this includes inquiries relating to criminal record checks.

Riverdale Municipality Council notes September, 2024.

over $100. Further be it resolved; Requests must be made in writing and payments will take up to 3 weeks from the date of request for processing. CARRIED

CREIGHTON/POD -Therefore be it resolved that council authorize the purchase of OnSolve/ CodeRed mass communication software for emergency planning and communication efforts for 2024-2027 as submitted Quote# 666739. CARRIED

Submitted

By RM of Riverdale

In attendance-Mayor Heather Lamb, Councillors Christa Veitch, David Creighton, Tyler Pod. Everett Smith, Tyson Peters. Absent Councillor Shawn Mason

Delegation/Public hearings-Rivers Curling Club, C. Beever & D. Veitch

POD /PETERS -That Council authorize administration to issue refunds to tax accounts with credits

VEITCH/PETERS -That Council Approve CAO Marci Quane to attend the 2024 MMA Conference in Winnipeg from September 8-11; Further be it resolved that expenses be covered as per municipal policy HR 08-15. CARRIED

Christa- Scott would like input from councils regarding an upcoming summit. Christa will forward the email to council. Police information out to the public (See above).

Mayor Lamb would like to acknowledge administrative staff for the information in the tax insert which was included in the annual property tax statement.

Mayor Lamb would also like to recognize Donna Morken and the Rivers Train Station Restoration Committee for the great mural that is nearing completion.

Mayor Lamb also wanted to notify the CAO that a citizen mentioned the drainage cover located at the corner of 2nd Ave and Main Street as it was unsafe and needed to be looked at.

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Letter to the Editor

September 12th, 2024 — As property crime surges alarmingly in rural Westman, the NDP provincial government is neglecting its responsibilities and failing to support the RCMP in addressing the issue.

Wab Kinew’s team has given no additional financial resources to the RCMP’s Blue Hills detachment to better respond to the rising crime this summer. This follows a sudden decision by Manitoba Justice Minister Matt Wiebe earlier this year to disband the municipal police service in Rivers and to add the Riverdale municipality to the Mounties’ Blue Hills jurisdiction.

The Blue Hills detachment does excellent work in the communities it serves, but now its officers

must receive stronger support from the provincial government to adequately police this significantly enlarged population and geographic area. Property crimes and domestic calls for service are on the rise in this region, and by adding another municipality to the detachment’s responsibility without adding resources to help them, the NDP government is forcing Blue Hills officers into a very difficult situation. It is time for the minister to act and give the detachment an immediate increase in financial support to bring in more police personnel and equipment.

Within my constituency of Spruce Woods, which is now almost entirely policed by Blue Hills RCMP, two municipal councils have contacted the provin -

cial government to request additional police officer positions in the region. As crime concerns grow in more Westman communities, I am sure more such municipal requests will follow.

As the MLA representing much of the Blue Hills policing area, I am adding my voice to these requests and have written to the minister to urge swift action on this issue. The NDP government must increase the number of officer positions in the Blue Hills RCMP to ensure this region has the police presence and coverage that its residents expect and deserve.

Grant Jackson MLA for Spruce Woods Contact (204) 590-9571

Meeting minutes from RM of Oakview - Aug. 13, 2024

Submitted RM of Oakview

Present Reeve Robert Christie, Councillors: Bill Aaroe, Gavin Reynolds, Lloyd Evans, Mark Gill, Frank Hyndman and Ian Christie, CAO Mark Humphries Administrative Assistant Kristina Walker and Assistant CAO/Manager of Finance: Donna Anderson

PUBLIC HEARINGS

AND DELEGATIONS

4.1 7:10 pm - Conditional Use 02-OV-24-CU, Variance 05-OV-24-VO and 06-OV-24-VO Applications - Shirley & Malcolm Rose. Lisa Hamilton Mid-West Planning Development Officer attended the hearing

Reynolds/Bill Aaroe

Whereas Malcolm and Shirley Rose have applied for a Conditional Use Order to provide for establishment of a NonFarm Dwelling Unit in the “AG” Agricultural General Zone at NE 6-15-19 WPM; and Whereas the Council has held a public hearing to hear representation in favour and in opposition to the application; Now therefore in consideration of any representation made at the hearing and of the application itself, the Council hereby approves the application as submitted and authorize that Conditional Use Order No. 02-OV-24CU be issued. CARRIED

Hyndman/Aaroe-

Whereas a public hearing was held on August 13, 2024, to hear representation for or against the Variation Order Application # 05-OV-24-VO; And whereas no representation was received against the application. Therefore, be it resolved that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Oakview approve Variation Order # 05-OV-24-VO to increase the maximum site area for a non-farm dwelling from 10 acres to 50.3 acres in the Agricultural Zone “AG”. CARRIED

Hyndman/ReynoldsWhereas a public hearing was held on August 13, 2024 to hear representation for or against the Variation Order Application #06-OV-24-VO; And whereas no representation was received against the application; Therefore, be it resolved that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Oakview approve Variation Order # 06-OV-24-VO to reduce the front setback from 125 feet to 36 feet in the Agricultural Zone “AG”. CARRIED

Councillor Reynolds declared and vacated the chamber. 4.2 7:30 pm - Jay Woloski - Road allowance TABLED

Councillor Reynolds

returned to the meeting.

Aaroe/Reynolds-Be it resolved that the delegation information presented to Council by Ron Krahn be hereby received. CARRIED

Reynolds/Hyndman-Be it resolved that the delegation information presented to Council by Andy Corbey on behalf of the Members of Land Stewards of the Little Saskatchewan be hereby received. CARRIED

Reynolds/Gill-Be it resolved that we do hereby approve for payment General Cheque’s # 11054 - 11103 and Payroll Cheques # 55679 – 55701 including pre-authorized payments amounting to $1,448,539.49. CARRIED

Hyndman/ReynoldsTherefore, be it resolved that Council give first reading to ByLaw No. 2024-6, being a by-law to appoint to the position of Senior Election Official. CARRIED Reynolds/Aaroe- Whereas following the recommendation of the Committee of the Whole meeting of July 26, 2024, to proceed with the award with the additional funds being used from the Gas Tax Reserve including this year’s contribution to cover the shortfall; Now Therefore be it resolved that the Council of the R. M. Of Oakview accept the tender submitted

by Tutthill Construction in the sum of $397,436.00 for the completion of The Rapid City Transfer Station.

CARRIED

Aaroe/Reynolds-Be it resolved that council authorizes the CAO to advise MWSB of the need for financial and technical assistance with upgrades to The Oak River and Rapid City Water Plant. CARRIED

Reynolds/Hyndman-Be it resolved that council of the RM of Oakview authorizes the SEO to proceed in organizing a By-Election for the now open position for a Rapid City LUD Member.

CARRIED

Reynolds/HyndmanWhereas the municipality received the following tender for Road 128W from Gill Farms in accordance with the terms of the tender document. Be it resolved that The Council of The R.M. Of Oakview award the Road 128W project to Gill Farms for the sum of $74,800.00; and Whereas the municipality authorizes that density testing be completed, by the Municipal engineer, during construction and the costs of the tests be covered by the Municipality. CARRIED Evans/Aaroe-Be it resolved that the Council of the RM of Oakview do hereby work with the Legion Branch #49

and the Valleyview Seniors for a successful transfer of the building and land to the Rural Municipality of Oakview with a transfer date of December 31, 2024.

CARRIED

Aaroe/Reynolds-Therefore, be it resolved that the R.M. Council of Oakview approves to accept the donation of $100 for four used tractor tires on behalf of both Rapid City and Oak River Play Ground Committees from Helen Catlin.

CARRIED

Christie/Evans-Be it resolved that the RM of Oakview Council authorize the CAO to advertise a reward of $500 to anyone who has information that leads to an arrest for the vandalism of the RC Washrooms.

CARRIED

Resolution No: 292/24 11 IN-CAMERA Moved By: Gavin Reynolds Seconded By: Frank Hyndman Be it resolved that Council does now resolve into committee of the whole council to meet in camera to discuss the conduct of an investigation under, or enforcement of an Act or by-law; And be it further resolved that all matters discussed in camera be kept confidential until such matters are discussed in an open council or committee meeting. CARRIED

Chamber of Commerce host free BBQ in Rivers

continued from page 1

The Riverdale Harvest Food Bank held a colouring contest for the kids at the BBQ. Rosie Grudeski won the kids snack basket.

Rivers Palliative Care had two draws for a children’s coloring/activity book and a package of crayons at the BBQ. The ‘Grief Relief Activity Book: Lessons of Resilience’ book was won by Paige Whittom, and ‘Where Do All the Pets Go?’ book was won by Connor Mears.

“A special shout out to Barb Plewes and the Legion Hall for the support and opportunity to use their facility,” says Mason.

The Chamber plans to make this an annual event. They are hoping to have more local small and homebased businesses set-up tables at the event next year to showcase what they have to offer to the residence of the great community.

Lemonade Ladies fundraiser funds are totalled

Thanks to the generous support of our families, friends and community, The Lemonade Ladies are pleased to announce that we raised $3,507 at our Lemonade Stand for Hope on August 17, 2024, in Rivers. This is a fundraiser for the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, and all funds stay in our province. In addition to support from Manitobans, we received donations from Vancouver Island in the West, Nova Scotia on the East Coast, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec. Our Lemonade Ladies served 100 cups of refreshing lemonade and sold 950 raffle tickets for our gift baskets. Many thanks to Westoba Credit Union and all of you for your support, from Aria, Etta, Eire, Jenna and Marguerite.

for

Rivers Banner

Shawn Mason, Chamber of Commerce President and Dave Falkevitch, Chamber member, cooked up 250 hotdogs

the Rivers community.

Kenview farms celebrate 100 years of ownership

By Gerry Nolan Rivers Banner

The Hunter family of Westman Manitoba celebrated on August 25, the unveiling of a new cairn.

Gordon Hunter purchased the land in 1923. He married Grace Henderson and had five children, Emily, Claire, Ken, Kaye and Garth. Gordon had grade 8 education but later completed University with a degree in agriculture.

The farm was named Kenview because there were no trees surrounding the farm at the time the barns were built. They could look out and see Kenton, hence Kenview. The farm featured dairy, cows, chickens, grain and horses.

Two barns were built before the current house was built. Current home was built in 1926 by Mr. Gray. The home had electricity and indoor plumbing installed in 1939 powered by battery. They also had a walk-in freezer.

Ken Hunter, son of Gordon and Grace, married Donna Stevens in 1953 and took over the farm. Mrs. Donna Hunter recalls that while living on the farm for 68 years, they were all good years, no hail, great soil, the land was fruitful. Donna was instrumental in forming the Welsh Pony Society, breeding and raising horses since the mid 60s. Donna said, “it was a great place to raise a family, Leith, Zane, Todd and Julie. Actually, the best place to raise a family!” Mrs. Hunter, who turned 92 in August, still owns the farm, which is currently farmed by Hunter Farms, Cam Hunter. Mrs. Hunter moved into the town of Kenton in 2021. Her Grand Daughter Emily lives on the farm with her fiancé Jeremy Gardner.

The family had a supper in the Kenton Memorial Hall to celebrate the occasion. A fantastic supper was served by Chloe Sheane and Thelma Quinn. After supper MC Zane Hunter shared some stories and invited others to do so as well. There were several speeches, as well as a video of Kenview Farms.

It was a grand evening of reminiscing, sharing and visiting as some family members travelled many miles to celebrate this huge milestone.

Locally Grown Veggies

5 – 6:30 in Rivers Place an Order for Pickup

Mrs. Donna Hunter is a beautiful lady whose eyes just lit up while sharing memories of Kenview with her family on August 25.