With each passing day, pedestrian foot traffic is growing within Wasagaming, where this family enjoyed the views, including progress of the pier upgrades, on the cool but refreshing morning of Thursday, April 17. Summer season business establishments are beginning to open up ahead of the May long weekend, when Riding Mountain National Park and surrounding area truly comes alive.
Three individuals from the communities of Minnedosa, Russell, and Shoal Lake have received King Charles III Coronation Medals in recognition of their outstanding contributions to leadership and community service. These prestigious awards were
part of a national initiative that included the distribution of 30,000 medals across Canada, with local recipients selected by Progressive Conservative MLAs from western Manitoba.
HAROLD GILLESHAMMER
Harold Gilleshammer began his career as an educator after earning his degrees in history, political sci-
ence, and English from the University of Manitoba, followed by a Bachelor of Education from Brandon University. He served as the MLA for Minnedosa from 1988 to 2003, holding multiple cabinet positions and subsequently acting as deputy leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.
Gilleshammer’s contributions to the Minnedosa community in-
clude key projects such as securing a new hospital and improving local infrastructure. His productive service led to his recognition with a Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002.
In 2021, Premier Brian Pallister honoured Gilleshammer by naming a room at the Minnedosa Recreation and Events Centre in his memory. He resides in Minnedosa
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with his wife, Diana, actively participating in community initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents.
GLEN FINDLAY
Glen Findlay of Shoal Lake has an extensive background in both local and provincial service.
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$100,000
The Manitoba government has issued a directive to Manitoba Hydro to bring back some of its electricity exports to help power nationbuilding projects in Canada, Premier Wab Kinew announced.
“Manitoba is a province of builders, and we are stepping up to help build our nation as we weather the economic uncertainty we are all facing right now,” said Kinew. “There is no better time to be partnering with other Canadian provinces and territories to build the infrastructure we need for a strong domestic economy.”
Hydro’s expiring export contracts worth 500 megawatts (MW) of power will be redirected to help infrastructure projects in Manitoba and Canada. This directive includes setting aside 50 MW towards the development of the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link.
The Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link is an infrastructure project that has the potential to
bring power and telecommunications infrastructure to northern communities, reducing dependence on diesel fuel and creating economic opportunity by powering mines, noted the premier.
“This commitment by the Province of Manitoba is true nation building that makes Canada stronger,” said AnneRaphaëlle Audouin, chief executive officer, Nukik Corporation. “Working together we can unlock sustainable economic development opportunities, build stronger communities and support Arctic sovereignty and security. We look forward to working in partnership to build a more connected Canada.”
The province will continue to engage with Nunavut, Nukik and other partners to advance the project, identify other opportunities for economic development and build on existing collaborations to foster cultural and economic development, noted the premier.
The community of Elphinstone, situated along Highway 45, was at its peak in the 1950’s. Saturday evenings were hectic with everybody from the farms and townspeople doing their shopping, entertaining at the pool hall or bowling alley, catching up with the latest news and gossip while the youngsters chased each other down the sidewalk. Sadly now, the town-site sits relatively dormant, but its beautiful sign still attracts attention.
He was elected as a Progressive Concervative to the Manitoba Legislative Assembly in 1986 and held three cabinet positions during his tenure in the Filmon government until his retirement in 1999. A graduate of the University of Manitoba and the University of Illinois, Findlay has been actively involved in various boards and committees at different levels of government.
His commitment to the agricultural community is notable; he played significant roles in organizations such as the Canadian Wheat Board and the Manitoba Beef Producers. Additionally, Findlay has strongly supported infrastructure development in his community, including the construction of a new arena complex.
In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into the Manitoba Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2015. Findlay and his wife, Katherine, continue to manage their family farm, which spans seven generations. They take pride in having raised four children, who have in turn blessed them with nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Leonard Derkach, born in 1945 in Rossburn, is a lifelong farmer and educator. After completing high school in Russell, he then graduated
from Brandon University. His commitment to education led him to teach in local schools while also serving on the Pelly Trail School Board from 1979 to 1985, including three years as chair.
In 1986, Derkach was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the Roblin-Russell constituency, where he served for 25 years. His leadership included key cabinet positions such as Minister of Education and Training, and Minister of Rural Development. After retiring from the legislature in 2011, he served as mayor for the Municipality of RussellBinscarth from 2015 to 2018.
Derkach’s contributions extend beyond politics; he actively participates in his local church and values spending time with his family at the lake while supporting his grandchildren’s hockey endeavours.
He and his wife, Margaret, are proud parents of three sons and have 11 grandchildren.
Along with Derkach, Findlay, and Gilleshammer, nine additional Manitoba residents were chosen by their respective MLAs to receive a King Charles III Coronation medal.
The timeless sounds of curling are brought to life as the Clanwilliam community spirit
South Mountain Press
There’s something timeless about the sound of a curling stone sliding across natural ice in Clanwilliam. Maybe it’s the warm welcome from volunteers carrying fresh homemade pies or the history of laughter echoing off the rink walls. For a week each winter, this tiny two-sheet curling rink becomes the heart of Manitoba hospitality during what many fondly call “Pie Week” – the Rodney Pederson Memorial Bonspiel.
Clanwilliam’s rink was officially incorporated in 1914, and its curling club continues to thrive more than a century later – powered not by artificial refrigeration, but by elbow grease, community pride, and a lot of love. The Clanwilliam winter league runs from around Jan. 1 to March 10 each year. Preparing the natural ice alone takes the entire month of December, with two floods a day. But no one complains. That’s just what it takes to create magic.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated nine-member volunteer board keeps everything running. Leading the charge is board president Jim Richards, recently signed on for another two-year term. From kitchen shifts to building maintenance, the entire bonspiel season is made possible by volunteers – many of whom also donate handmade pies or hearty soups to keep curlers and spectators fed.
The highlight of the season is the Rodney Pederson Memorial Bonspiel, renamed in 2018 to honour longtime board member and beloved ice maker Rodney Pederson who passed away the year prior. This year’s event saw 20 teams compete, a rise from 16 last year and just 12 in the first year post-Covid. Teams came from all over – Onanole, Erickson, Newdale, Basswood, Minnedosa, Brandon, Sandy Lake and of course,
Clanwilliam.
The hospitality is legendary. Curlers are greeted with friendly faces, dozens upon dozens of pies, and a Friday night social. There’s a reason this bonspiel is affectionately known as “Pie Week.”
In a region full of traditional bonspiels, Clanwilliam also offers something unique: the Sunrise Skins Bonspiel. In this fast-paced event, each end is worth cash. First held in 2009, this year’s edition featured eight teams in a fun, competitive Friday-Saturday format. It’s the only local bonspiel of its kind and has earned a special place in the hearts of players looking for something different and something definitely scrumptious.
The Junior Spiel, held Jan. 18, featured four young teams this year, with hopes to expand to eight in the fu-
ture. A standout story emerged when two eight-yearold girls – Claire Dagg and Lydia Ferguson – joined forces with 14-year-olds Helgi Mailman and Zac Morrison. The older boys’ patience and mentorship reflected exactly the kind of spirit the Clanwilliam Curling Club prides itself on.
League play wrapped up with two championship trophies. The Hugh McPherson Cup, dating all the way back to 1933, is awarded to the team with the best regular season record. This year’s winners were Brad Delgaty, Rhonda Curle, and Owen and Tricia Kingdon. The McQuar-
rie Cup, first awarded in 1960, goes to the league playoff champions – this year claimed by Andrew and Georgia Richards, Carly Oliver, and Gerry Oliver. The Richards family name is deeply etched in club lore, with Jim, Janice, and Charlie Richards holding a combined 49 cup titles between them.
As the final stones were thrown and the last slice of yummy pie served, one thing was clear: Clanwilliam’s rink is more than just a building. It’s a community hub, a place where history meets hospitality and every curler feels like they belong, no matter their age or experience.
so much to the following who have donated to help make our Bonspiels a success. Remember to support them so they can continue to support us
Minnedosa Pharmacy
Minnedosa
And a special thank you to all the volunteers who have also given their time and/or made pies or soup for our bonspiel. It is greatly appreciated.
Friday, April 25, 2025
Letters to the editor: smpnews@mymts.net
Adulthood is almost entirely about change, whether its lifestyle changes, changes in relationships and friendships, or work and occupation. We are always changing and constantly evolving, and that is honestly one of the most terrifying things about life.
And while sometimes days may feel a bit repetitive and life can become stale with routine, that doesn’t mean little changes aren’t being made all the time.
The good thing about adulthood is that we have way more control over our lives than we did when we were children – even if it doesn’t always feel that way all the time – and that means that if we don’t like where we’re going, there’s always room for us to change our direction and try something new.
This week’s column touches on aspects of a per-
Darrell Nesbitt
son’s life regarding “truths” from childhood to adulthood, all thanks to the thoughtfulness of readers and friends, Edith Edmundson, and Dennis and Marlene Basso, who are among the people who have come to learn what Shoal Lake has and continues to offer. I kick off with an article mailed from the west coast.
Beatitudes for Friends Ofthe Aged
Blessed are they who understand, my faltering step and palsied hand.
Blessed are they who seem to know my ears today, must strain to catch the things they say.
Blessed are they who seem to know, my eyes are dim and wits are slow.
Blessed are they who looked away, when coffee spilled at breakfast today.
Blessed are they with a cheery smile, who stop to chat for a little while.
Blessed are they who never say, you told that story twice today.
Blessed are they who know the way, to bring back memories of yesterday.
Blessed are they who know I’m at a loss, to find the strength to carry my cross.
Blessed are they who ease the days, of my journey home in loving ways.
Truths That Little Children Have Learned
* No matter how hard you try, you can’t baptize cats.
* When your Mom is mad at your Dad, don’t let her brush your hair.
* If your sister hits you, don’t hit her back. They always catch the second person.
* You can’t trust dogs to watch your food.
* The best place to be when you’re sad is Grandma’s lap.
Truths ThatAdults Have Learned
* Raising teenagers is like nailing jelly to a tree.
* The wrinkles don’t hurt.
* Families are like fudge... mostly sweet, with a few nuts.
* Today’s mighty oak is just yesterday’s nut that held its ground.
* Laughing is good exer-
cise. It’s like jogging on the inside.
* Middle age is when you choose your cereal for the fiber, not the toy.
Truths About Growing Old
* Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional.
* Forget health food. I need all the preservatives I can get.
* When you fall down, you wonder what else you can do while you’re down there.
* You’re getting old when you get the same sensation from a rocking chair that you once got from a roller coaster.
* It’s frustrating when you know all the answers, but nobody bothers to ask you the questions.
* Time may be a great healer, but it’s a lousy beautician.
* Wisdom comes with age, but sometimes age comes alone.
Success (how true this one is)
* At age 4, success is not piddling in your pants.
* At age 12, success ishaving friends.
* At age 17, success is having a driver’s license.
* At age 35, success is having money.
* At age 50, success is having money.
* At age 70, success is having a driver’s license.
* At age 75, success is having friends.
* At age 80, success isnot piddling in your pants. Being an adult is hard and it’s not as magical as we thought it would be when we were kids, but there are still so many things we can love and enjoy, as we get older. Life is a beautiful, changing, and mysterious thing, so we’re all just doing our best to ride the waves and figure it out as we go along.
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation released Leger polling showing Canadians want the federal government to cut spending and shrink the size and cost of the bureaucracy.
“The poll shows most Canadians want the federal government to cut spending,” said Gage Haubrich, CTF Prairie Director. “Canadians know they pay too much tax because the government wastes too much money.”
Between 2019 and 2024, federal government spending increased 26 percent even after accounting for inflation. Leger asked Canadians what they think should happen to federal government spending in the next five years.
Results of the poll show:
•43 percent say reduce spending
•20 percent say increase spending
•16 percent say maintain spending
•20 percent don’t know
The federal government added 108,000 bureaucrats and increased the cost of the bureaucracy 73 percent since 2016. Leger asked Canadians what they think should happen to the size and cost of the federal bureaucracy. Results of the poll show:
•53 percent say reduce
•24 percent say maintain
•4 percent say increase
•19 percent don’t know
Long-term small business confidence gained 9.5 index points in April, reaching 38.7, up from the record low level of 29.2 points recorded in March, finds the latest Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB)’s Monthly Business Barometer survey.
“The long-term outlook has slightly recovered, but it’s still at abysmal levels. In fact, it’s only reached the March 2020 level of optimism. So, while the business sentiment trended in the right direction this month, partly due to the elimination of the federal carbon tax, small businesses are still feeling worried and uncertain about the future,” said Tyler Slobogian, Senior Policy Analyst for the Prairies & the North. “We’ve only gone from an extremely pes-
simistic outlook to just pessimistic.”
Faced with higher product input costs, business owners are forecasting price increases of an average of 3.5 percent and plan to raise wages by an average of 2.2 percent over the next few months.
Weak demand continues to plague over half (52 percent) of small firms. Tax and regulatory costs remain the major input cost constraint (69 percent), followed by wage costs (56 percent).
Businesses in retail, hospitality, and construction saw a slight recovery in confidence, while those in agriculture and wholesale registered another decline in optimism.
“The cost of doing business is still expensive. The uncertainty caused by the current political environment and the trade war is slowing down consumer spending, leading to fewer sales and lower revenue for many business owners,” Slobogian concluded.
Liberal Leader Mark Carney promised to “balance the operating budget in three years.” Leger asked Canadians if they believed Carney’s promise to balance the budget. Results of the poll show:
•58 percent are skeptical
•32 percent are confident
•10 percent don’t know
“Any politician that wants to fix the budget and cut taxes will need to shrink the size and cost of Ottawa’s bloated bureaucracy,” Hau-
brich said. “The polls show Canadians want to put the federal government on a diet and they won’t trust promises about balancing the budget unless politicians present credible plans.”
alone – in the past year, over 33,000 Manitobans received some form of CPR and first aid training. Further to this, according to statistics, approximately 70% of Canadians have received or used CPR training.
Kim Houston, an independent first aid instructor from Oak Lake, helps serve this vital need in her community and beyond. Through her business, Houston First Aid Training, she provides essential emergency education for individuals and organizations across the region – Hamiota, Kenton, Minnedosa, Oak River, Rivers, and Shoal Lake, to name a few.
With the huge demand to be certified, what is the importance of first aid and CPR training?
Also certified to teach St. John Ambulance Mental Health, Babysitting Basics, and Livingworks SafeTALK Suicide Awareness workshop, Houston is adamant that understanding crisis training, including first aid and CPR, can make a significant difference in emergency situations.
According to the Canadian Red Cross, for every minute that someone is unconscious
chance of survival. However, if you perform CPR, you more than triple the person’s chance of life.
“I really feel that everyone should be trained in first aid and CPR,” Houston said. “Every second counts when someone’s wellbeing is involved.”
This is especially true in rural areas, where access to medical assistance can be limited. “Learning basic skills can help bridge that gap for someone, even ourselves,” Houston added. “St. John Ambulance provides us with the most up-to-date guidelines so that we can provide up-to-date information to our class participants.”
First aid and CPR have a long-standing history, dating back to the late 19th century. The modern concept of first aid started gaining traction around the 1880s when the St. John Ambulance, founded in England, began training volunteers to assist the injured during wars. As time progressed, the need for first aid training spread, becoming an essential skill that many organizations, workplaces, and educational institutions now require.
Houston offers a variety of training programs, from Basic (one day) to Intermediate (two day) First Aid courses. These training sessions not only teach CPR but also how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
“Both classes offer a blended option, where participants do the theory at home online and then come to class for hands-on practice and take an exam,” she explained.
One unique aspect of Houston’s services is the recertification process.
“If you have a certificate that is about to expire, you recertify in half of the original class time as well,” she said. “This makes it easier for individuals to stay certified without a substantial time commitment.”
According to the Canadian Red Cross, children as young as nine have saved the lives of others with CPR. Houston emphasizes that there is no age limit to attend her classes, which attracts a diverse audience. She believes that first aid and CPR training is crucial, not just for individuals but also for the community as a whole. By educating more people, it creates a safety net that can significantly impact survival rates in emergencies.
By RACHEAL FLINTOFT South Mountain Press
In her experience, Houston has encountered several misconceptions about first aid and CPR. One common thought she addresses is, “Someone else will help so we don’t need to get involved.”
This attitude can be dangerous, but Houston insists that taking an accredited first aid and CPR training course will provide the skills and boost the confidence needed to take action. “I won’t know what to do” is another misconception she often hears. Houston reassured that proper training ensures individuals are well-prepared to respond.
For those contemplating
their first experience with CPR or first aid training, Houston suggests taking a fully in-person class.
“It will give you the chance to ask questions and get clarification,” Houston said. “While the ‘take it online for cheap’ classes sound inviting, most workplaces do not accept fully online training.”
Recently, Houston has added a female mannequin to her training equipment, aiming to provide a more realistic learning environment.
“Hopefully, it will break down barriers to gender-based treatment,” she said, with a commitment to making first aid training accessible and relevant for everyone. Houston’s dedication to teaching CPR and First Aid really echoes the growing need for these crucial skills. With a commitment to quality training and community education, she empowers individuals to take charge in emergency situations. “Learning first aid and CPR really can save lives,” Houston said. So why not take that important step today and get trained? It’s a skill that could, one day, make all the difference, and the life you save will likely be someone you love.
Friday, April 25, 2025
DARRELL NESBITT
South Mountain Press
“They rented a truck and a semi to go. Travel down the long and winding road. Look on the map I think we’ve been here before… lyrics of Roll On Down The Highway easily summed up Bachman-Turner Overdrive’s (BTO) ‘Back in Overdrive’ cross-Canada tour stop in Brandon.
Hitting the stage within Westoba Place at the Keystone Centre on Thursday, April 17 with son Tai (56) by his side, it was hard to imagine Randolph Charles Bachman, otherwise better known as Randy, is still rocking at the age of 81.
The concert featuring fellow Canadian artists, April Wine and Headpins, who also showcased brilliance, musically speaking kicked off on April 1 in Victoria, BC, and after stops in Brandon and Winnipeg, rolled into Ontario. The Canadian portion of the tour will wrap up on May 8 in Halifax, NS.
The Canadian rock legend was the driving force behind the formation of two leading successful bands including the Guess Who in 1965. Mentoring the young Burton Cummings, the pair became a formidable songwriting team, with such international gold and platinum hits as ‘These Eyes’. He left the group in 1970, to form with Chad Allan and Rob Bachman, the band Brave Belt, and by 1972 Bachman re-invented the wheel with BTO, along with Fred Turner.
As fans rocked and BTO rolled, sharing songs from the `60s to the ‘90s, Bachman’s life-long passion for music never waned once on the Brandon stage, extending stories and how certain Guess Who and BTO songs came about enriching the evening oh so fine.
“Nobody knows what the heck the world’s going to be tomorrow,” Bachman said at a 2024 Windsor, ON show, adding, “Today, we’re happy to be here and it’s all about the good old days.”
So very true, as fans rejoiced, songs shared not only showcased the talents of Bachman and his son Tai, but also BTO’s latest lineup including Tai’s wife Koko Bachman on the drums, Lance Lapointe (singer / bassist) and Brent Howard (guitarist), as great music never fades.
BTO has released its first new music in over 25 years with “60 Years Ago”, a new single reflecting on the vibrant Winnipeg music scene that produced some of the most influential songwriters of all time. Bachman stated in a social media post, “Growing up as teenagers in the 1960s, it was the Liverpool of North America, a melting pot of incredible talents.”
The musical explosion of BTO generated thousands of fans including the Nesbitt brothers – Greg, Darrell and Laurie –who along with a few friends first saw the group high above the floor of Winnipeg’s old arena in the mid-70s.
Rock gods then and classic rock gods now, the guitar riffs of BTO’s classics, ‘Takin’ Care of Business’ and ‘You Ain’t See Nothing Yet’ never get old. Taking a seat, much lower within Westoba Place this time around, the evening not only brought back memories of that long ago road trip in a 1966 four-door Pontiac but plenty of other city trips to Brandon enjoying many more Canadian bands for mere change compared to today’s ticket prices.
True to form, despite his age, Bachman’s songwriting and guitar-playing skills
again proved to be crucial elements of the Wheat City concert, especially when the lyrics, “You get up every morning from your alarm clock’s warning, Take the 8:15 into the city, There’s a whistle up above and people pushin’, people shovin’, And the girls who try to look pretty…” brought a roar of applause or a stamp of approval on history relived.
The saying rock and roll never forgets, truly uplifts the dreams, the goals, and the success of Randy Bachman. Born in 1943, Bachman told his Grade 1 teacher he was going to be a musician when he grew up. Well, that aspiration for the man who called a house on Scotia Street in Manitoba’s capital his last before moving to the west coast, picked up a guitar in his teen years and in 1974 he fronted the biggestselling recording act (BTO) in popular music.
Thanks to his passion, determination, and focus he has become a legendary figure in the music world through his talents as a guitarist, songwriter, performer, and producer.
A career built on his drive and dedication to music, it’s golden that he can still take to the stage, and say “Rock Is My Life and This Is My Song.”
DARRELL NESBITT
South Mountain Press
Nothing beats the gritty effects of the most dangerous sport played in arenas today than taking a seat for some outstanding rides and wrecks live.
For the fourth consecutive year, PBR Canada’s elite Cup Series will ride into Brandon this spring, not solely for one performance but two consecutive nights – May 23 and 24 –at Westoba Place in the Keystone Centre.
Following the overwhelming enthusiasm and demand for PBR Canada Cup Series events in Brandon, including last season’s single day soldout show, the organization expanded the competition to two days. The PBR Mazergroup Chute Out will have added significance as the lone PBR Canada Cup Series event in Manitoba during the 2025 season.
PBR Canada’s Cup Series, which set tour attendance records in nine cities in 2024, regularly features Canada’s best riders alongside some of
the organization’s top international athletes, squaring off against the rankest bucking bulls from across the nation.
Fans will witness exhilarating 8-second rides and wrecks throughout the unpredictable, action-packed event as the PBR’s courageous bullriding athletes face off against their 1,800-pound opponents born to buck.
The PBR Mazergroup Chute Out will mark the third event of the 2025 regular season for PBR Canada’s premier Cup Series.
When the Cup Series last travelled to Brandon in May 2024, Weston Davidsonof Strongfield, SK went a perfect 2-for-2 to win the Cup Series event. The win was part of a career-year for Davidson. He registered an accompanying 10 Top 10 finishes and concluded the season No. 7 in the race for the 2024 PBR Canada Championship.
Other past PBR Canada Cup Series event winners in Brandon have been Aaron Roy of Yellow Grass, SK in 2023 and Blake Smith of Abbey, SK in 2022.
On April 15, Fisher Branch RCMP attended to a residence to effect an arrest on a 20-year-old male for previous outstanding charges.Officers entered the home, with a warrant, and located the suspect who was arrested without incident. While effecting the arrest, officers noted a quantity of unstamped tobacco within the dwelling. The home was subsequently secured, and a search warrant drafted. Upon execution of the search warrant, officers located and seized the unstamped tobacco, over 1.4 kgs of cocaine, 102 grams of crack cocaine and other drug-related paraphernalia. Two additional male suspects (46, 23) were taken into custody and later released for a court appearance scheduled in Peguis First Nation where they will face a charge of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking. The 20-year-old male was remanded into custody with an additional charge of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking. Fisher Branch RCMP continue to investigate.
On April 13, officers from the Swan River RCMP Detachment received a report of a single-vehicle rollover that occurred on River Avenue in Bowsman.Officers attended to the scene and located three female subjects outside the vehicle, two passengers (22,19) who were able to exit the vehicle on their own and were treated and released for minor physical injuries, and the driver, who had been ejected and was taken to hospital in critical condition. On April 15, the 36-year-old female driver, from Swan River, succumbed to her injuries. Swan River RCMP, with assistance of a Forensic Collision Reconstructionist, continue to investigate.
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre is issuing a flood watch for the Assiniboine River from Shellmouth to Brandon as forecasters continue to monitor the ongoing spring runoff in western, central, and northern Manitoba basins.
The Hydrologic Forecast Centre indicates spring runoff due to snowmelt is underway or nearly completed in most southern Manitoba basins. However, spring runoff continues to occur in central, western, and northern Manitoba basins as recent warm temperatures continue to create snow melt.
Most Manitoba basins could receive up to 15 millimetres of precipitation in the next seven to 10 days. This precipitation is not expected to change the ongoing runoff conditions. Flood watch remains in effect on the Assiniboine
The sharp-shinned hawk is a true “snowbird”, wintering in Central America and now back for the summer. The hawk feeds on small birds (even as large as itself) and is well adapted to snatching birds in flight. In a true display of how unforgiving and cruel nature can be, the prey is plucked before being consumed or fed to the nestlings. However, although unpleasant to witness, this is a natural process and is important to the health of both the predator and prey species.
River until further notice.
The Manitoba Emergency Management Organization (EMO) continues to work with all local authorities and emergency management partners to provide guidance and support in response to spring flooding. Additionally, Manitoba EMO continues to work with Indigenous Services Canada and Manitoba Municipal and Northern Relations to support First Nation and Northern Affairs communities’ flood response.
Manitobans are reminded to stay off waterways including creeks, streams, and rivers. High flows, debris and cold-water temperatures present a significant safety risk.
Members of the public are also asked to keep away from flooded areas, water control structures including dams and diversions, and areas where flood response crews are working.
As we move towards sum-
I hope that you are expanding the food that you are growing. On the prairies, we can grow apples as well as they can be grown in our fruit belts in Canada. In order to understand the complexities of growing fruit we need to understand a bit more about the birds and the bees or more scientifically – pollination. It is sometimes hard to believe that there is more to the beauty and scent of a flower than our own personal enjoyment. However, the primary purpose of a flower is to seduce insects to pay a visit and in that process pollinate the flower so it is possible to continue life and allow the flower to produce seeds. Take the apple tree as an example – if not for the bees our efforts to grow these fruit would in fact be “fruitless”.
This process of pollination that occurs with the visit of a bee or other insect is the actual transfer of pollen grains from the stamen (male part of the flower) to the stigma (female part of the flower). If this results in a successful fertilization, then the wonder of life continues. The previously undeveloped seeds that are present in the ovary of the flower will start the development into viable seeds. Again using apple trees as an example, this development of viable seeds also begins the development of the apple itself.
Some plants will also be pollinated by things other than bees. For example, most of the trees we commonly plant in our urban forests rely on the wind for that wondrous transfer of pollen. Interestingly enough, these trees do not have very showy flowers, as the wind is not enticed by beauty and scent like an insect would be.
Now that we have simplified the process of pollination
let’s make it more realistic as Mother Nature is of course in reality more complex. Some flowers are what we call “perfect” and contain both male and female parts. But, there are flowers that contain only one sexual part so are distinctly either male or female. Those containing only pistils are considered female while those containing only stamens are considered male.
Some plants will have both
Patricia Hanbidge GARDENING
male and female flowers on the same plant. This is termed a monoecious plant and a good example of this would be the pumpkin. A plant that has only male or female flowers is termed dioecious. At this point you may be wondering why it matters who is monoecious and who is dioecious –but it actually is quite important. Take the poplar tree as a great example of why this does indeed matter. It is usually in June when the female cottonwoods (a type of poplar) produce a veritable blizzard of fluff (which actually contains the seed) – a large problem when enjoying the outdoor patio, especially if allergic! A simple way to solve this problem is to grow only he male clones which of course do not produce seed and voila – no fluff.
Just to add one more complexity, some plants require cross-pollination (like apples) while others are able to be self-pollinated. In order for an apple (blueberry, hazelnut and most plums) to be produced they require the pollen of a genetically different but closely related plant for fertilization to occur. Hence, the directive you have likely heard often that says that you need two different apple trees to get fruit!
The circle of life is complex regardless of the species involved. I hope you have enjoyed this brief foray into the wonders of renewal in the life of a plant! Happy gardening this summer … and may you question “why” just a little bit more often!
Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www. orchidhort.com; by email at growyourfuture@gmail.com or on facebook @orchidhort.
Q: I’ve never been athletic, but now at 45 my doctor is saying it’s move it or lose it. Will it really help me feel better? – Josie R., Englewood, NJ
A: Every cell in your body and brain needs the oxygenand nutrient-delivering, stress-busting, strengthbuilding, inflammationsoothing benefits of physical activity. Folks who exercise regularly extend their lifespan by up to nearly seven years and getting the minimum recommended amount of activity (150 – 300 minutes a week) reduces the risk of early death by 21%. And according to a study in Circulation, the maximum protection from premature death that exercise bestows comes from 150 to 300 minutes a week of vigorous physical activity or 300 to 600 minutes of moderate physical activity –or an equivalent mix of the two.
Three new studies back up the remarkable ability of exercise to protect you from a wide range of health problems. The first, in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, found that, at any age, if you consistently get moderate exercise of any kind, you enhance general cognition, memory, and executive function, whether you are healthy or are dealing with chronic conditions.
Another, in the same journal, found that folks getting the greatest amount of daily physical activity had a 26% lower risk of developing cancer compared to folks getting the least. Walking – distance, not intensity – was also beneficial. Compared to getting
just 5,000 steps a day, getting 7,000 steps lowered cancer risk by 11%; 9,000 steps lowered it by 16%.
And a study out of Australia found that just five minutes a day of eccentric exercises (no, that doesn’t mean they’re a bit odd!) can increase muscle strength, flexibility, endurance and mood. Eccentric exercises are things like chair squats. Try slowly lowering yourself into a chair. You lengthen and contract your front thigh muscles at once.
So, start one step at a time – and for the latest info on exercise benefits, sign up for the free newsletter at LongevityPlaybook.com.
Q: I keep hearing that I can be overweight or obese and still be healthy. Is that true? – John Y., Toledo, OH
A: There’s been discussion in journals about the existence of folks who are “healthy obese” – but I believe that may be because some folks who are super muscle-y can have a BMI that registers as obese, or, more commonly, that for genetic
Council of the Municipality of Clanwilliam–Erickson met with three delegations at the April 7 meeting including Gordon Hammell who requested council’s consideration of adding plugs along the south side of the Transfer Station to begin wetland restoration. Also meeting with council were Lance Routledge who discussed Assiniboine West Watershed District programs offered for 2025 and S/ Sgt. Dave Porter from the RCMP reported on occurrence statistics from 2023 and 2024.
Council approved the revisions to Water Valve Shut Off Policy No. WO002, as presented by ACAO Kaitlyn Pinette, and the 2025–2028 Gravel Road Agreement proposed by Manitoba Infra-
structure, which came into effect April 1, 2025.
The CAO advised council on a number of matters including the Climate Action funding, Manitoba GRO Program funding, GIC update, and the fact that 2025 scrubbing was completed.
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and other reasons, the person carrying excess visceral fat has not yet developed insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome or some of the lifeshortening conditions that come along with being overweight or obese. But they will – unless they achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
A study in NEJM Evidence looked at the electronic health records of 270,657 people and found that those who were very obese were likely to develop sleep apnea, Type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease (now called MASLD), gout, heart failure, high blood pres-
sure, A-fib, elevated or dysfunctional blood lipid levels, GERD, gallstones, kidney disease, pulmonary embolism, asthma, and/or deep vein thrombosis. And being overweight, instead of obese, also increases the risk of developing all those conditions, except for pulmonary embolism.
So don’t get complacent about creating a longer, healthier, happier life for yourself with the weightmanagement tools and techniques that are available today (or coming down the pike soon). In “The Great Age Re-
Dauphin – 15-1st Avenue S.W.
boot,” I outline innovations in self-care and medical treatments that can restore your good health. Two of my favorites are using supplements like bovine colostrum to boost immunity, support gut health, and aid in muscle tissue healing and Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) to clear your body of worn-out, damaged proteins and rejuvenate you from the inside out. It’s actively being explored for its full range of potential benefits. Big news! It’s been found to be effective in treating early Alzheimer’s disease.
Randomized double-blind studies, the best of which is the AMBAR study, found that it can reverse the disease. And two other published studies found similar results. Stay tuned for more developments.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of “When” and its companion cookbook. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.c om.
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Four, 20” KMC Rockstar rim w/ tires in very good condition 5 x 150 bolt pattern fits Dodge and Toyota Tundra. Has two new 35 x 12.50 R20 Deep Digger tires and two LT 295/60R20 Trail Grapple tires (70 percent tread). $1,800. Call or text Wayne 204-859-0013.
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Licensed gun dealer looking for firearms in all classes, and anything firearms related. Inheritance assistance provided. Can store handguns during the ban. Call or text Keith 204-471-9015.
Forage Seed For Sale: Organic & Conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd., 306-9219942.
Nice 20-acre retirement or subdividing opportunity 4 miles west of Brandon on paved road. 1,572 sq. ft. home including appliances, wheelchair accessible, one-level, attached garage. Also, additional
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adjoining subdivided five-acre lot. Immediate possession, private sale. $750,000. Call 1-204-7230083 for appointment to view, anytime.
Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228 www.firstand secondmortgages.ca
Are you disappointed with the timely delivery of your local newspaper by Canada Post? Let’s all advocate for better service by calling the customer service line at 1866-607-6301 or 1-800-267-1177 to make your complaint. According to Canada Post Local should take 3 days, Provincial should receive their papers within 3 to 5 days and Nationally (out of province) should receive their papers between 4 and 8 days.
Invest in advertising. The cost of advertising is small when you think of the number of people who will potentially attend your event simply because they saw your ad in the newspaper. If the cost of advertising is covered by just two or three admissions to your event, any additional guests you welcome is money in your pocket. Advertising does not cost, it pays! Call Michelle at 204-759-2644 ext. 1.
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We are looking to hire a full-time light duty mechanic. Duties to include, but not limited to: general mechanical repairs, oil changes, install and balance tires, perform tire rotations, etc. Individual must be organized, highly motivated, and have a keen eye for detail. Individual should have excellent communication and people skills and take pride in delivering outstanding customer service and quality workmanship.
We are looking to fill a full-time front office staff position. Duties to include, but not limited to: answering phones, setting up appointments, invoicing, parts orders. Individual should have excellent communication and people skills and take pride in delivering outstanding customer service. General office experience and automotive knowledge would be an asset. Onsite training will be provided.
Drop off resumes:
Shoal Lake Rad & Glass, 316 Elm St., Shoal Lake, MB Email: shoallakeradglass@gmail.com Phone: 204-759-2251
We appreciate your interest but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Russell: The Banner – Statiscally there is about a 1 in 500 chance of a ewe delivering quadruplets and those odds double when all four lambs survive. Darius and Raymond Bomback of the Inglis area beat the odds when one of their ewes birthed four perfectly healthy lambs recently. While the Bombacks have had a birth of triplets before, four is extra special.
Neepawa: The Banner & Press – All the hard work, saving, and sacrifice has paid off for Ritchel Quezon, a hard working mother, who works many jobs to provide the best for her daughter. Neepawa’s Habitat for Humanity announced Quezon has been chosen as the partner in the inaugural home being built by the non-profit organization.
Whitewood: Grasslands News – Preparing for the unthinkable is what emergency personnel and local elected officials did recently, hosting a mass casualty exercise in Broadview that focused on a school shooting scenario. More than 50 town and first
nations officials attended the presentation developed after studying mass casualty events in Canada from 2014 to 2022.
Killarney: The Guide –Rick Pauls first entered the fried chicken business in Killarney back in 1992 at the age of 22 through a Chicken Delight establishment. Pauls bid farewell to the goods on April 1 – a day of celebration, closing a deal on the sale of his Chicken Chef franchise location in the community’s mall. New operators are a fourmember family corporation based in Brandon.
Neepawa: The Banner & Press – A new service club, Kiwanis International, has been established for Neepawa and surrounding area. In the span of two hours on April 10, the club was not only introduced but also established as a brand new local chapter, with a fully stocked board and several enthusiastic members. The main goal of Kiwanis In-
ternational is to give community members the opportunity to help children, both locally and abroad, and to foster a positive influence in communities worldwide.
Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – On average, the upgraded Moosomin airport expansion to the tune of $10.6 million has seen between three and four emergency landings in terms of air ambulance flights from Saskatchewan and Manitoba since completion last fall. The airport still features a temporary generator-driven lighting system, although fundraising is ongoing to see a permanent lighting system implemented.
Baldur/Glenboro: The Gazette – The Holland Emmanuel Historic Church has stood proudly since 1894 and is still used today for special events. Originally an Anglican Church, the church is a stunning example of Gothic Revival style architecture designed by Andrew Maxwell, a well-known architect from the Holland area. The church is open for viewing June 1 to Aug. 31 or by request.
Salary: Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications
Benefits: We offer a comprehensive benefits package and an excellent group health and dental plan
Schedule: Permanent Full-Time
Start Date: Based on mutual agreement
About the Municipality:
The Municipality of Russell Binscarth includes two urban communities and a former rural municipality with a population of approximately 2,600. Located in the picturesque Parkland Region near the Saskatchewan border, Russell is bordered conveniently by Highways 83 and 45, and connected by Highway 16, and Binscarth is located along Highway 16. This presents a constant influx of travelers and tourists drawn in by the impressive quality, selection, and abundance of opportunities for shopping, relaxing and recreation. Where small town comforts combine with modern amenities to prove that Russell Binscarth is a place where you can truly prosper and grow!
Job Summary:
The Council of the Municipality of Russell Binscarth is seeking a dynamic and experienced Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to provide strategic leadership and oversee the efficient operation of the Municipality. Reporting directly to the Mayor and Council, the CAO will be responsible for implementing Council policies, managing municipal departments, and ensuring the effective delivery of public services. This is a unique opportunity for a visionary leader to guide the Municipality toward sustainable growth and excellence in governance. Come join us…be a part of it all!
The applicant should possess technical skills in municipal administration, financial management and human resource management. Strong communication, analytical and leadership skills are just some of the requirements of the position.
Key Responsibilities:
• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of municipal operations, ensuring alignment with Council priorities.
• Implement and execute policies, plans, and directives established by Council.
• Lead, mentor, and manage municipal staff to foster a culture of efficiency, professionalism, and accountability.
• Develop and manage annual budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term financial sustainability.
• Oversee municipal infrastructure projects, economic development initiatives, and service delivery improvements.
• Act as the principal advisor to Council, providing research, analysis, and recommendations on policy and operational matters.
• Promote employee engagement by cultivating a safe, supportive, high-performance work environment.
• Represent the Municipality in dealings with external stakeholders, including government agencies, community groups, and business partners.
• Provide effective advice and support to Council in developing, implementing and executing bylaws, policies and strategies to realize Council’s goals and objectives.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant municipal, provincial, and federal regulations.
• Engage with the public to promote transparency, responsiveness, and community involvement in local governance.
Qualifications and Experience:
• A post-secondary degree in a relevant discipline such as Public Administration, Business Administration, Commerce, Political Science or a degree in a related municipal field such as Planning or Engineering.
• A certificate in Manitoba Municipal Administration is an asset.
• A minimum of five years of progressively responsible leadership experience in municipal government or a related sector or an equivalent combination of training and experience in other relevant settings.
• Strong financial management and budgeting experience.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage diverse teams effectively.
• Knowledge of municipal law, governance, and administrative processes.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to think strategically and implement innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Experience in economic development, urban planning, and infrastructure management is an asset.
Individuals interested in an opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing municipality should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and relevant experience to Interim CAO Twyla Ludwig at cao@mrbgov.com with the subject line “CAO Application” or by mail to Box 10, Russell, MB R0J 1W0. Please include salary expectations and a minimum of three professional references.
The Selection Committee intends to review applications as received and interview as early as April 28, 2025, with applications continuing to be accepted until the suitable candidate is found.
For more information on the Municipality of Russell Binscarth and a complete description of this exciting opportunity, visit us at www.russellbinscarth.com. We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.