South Mountain P re s s
FIRE CLAIMS ERICKSON HOME
Magnificent rural log home northeast of community completely destroyed by blaze on Tuesday, Feb. 4
DARRELL NESBITT
South Mountain Press
The Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC) is still investigating the cause of a fire, which destroyed a magnificent constructed log home on Tuesday, Feb. 4, 15.5 kilometres (kms) northeast of Erickson on Road 105 North.
The Clanwilliam-Erickson Fire Rescue (CEFR) received the initial page at 1:14 p.m. Neighbouring fire departments, Onanole and Sandy
Lake, were dispatched immediately on the original call, due to the Mutual Aid Fire Protection agreement in place to assist during a large fire incident.
“The structure was fully engulfed when firefighters arrived on scene,” stated John Braschuk, Clanwilliam-Erickson fire chief. “No one was home at the time of the incident, and the estimate loss is unknown at this time.”
From the three departments, a total of 31 firefighters were on
scene. Braschuk said there were two pumper trucks and three water tank units shuttling water from the Municipality of ClanwilliamErickson community well in Scandinavia being only 5 kms away of the incident.
Men and women serving communities, as firefighters, feel the Manitoba Provincial Fire Mutual Aid System is one of the greatest assets in our province, shared Fire Chief Braschuk.
“The ability to have neighbour-
ing fire departments helping each other when needed is very important and beneficial as seen and felt on this day. Every community needs assistance at some time or involved and through the years of the mutual aid system, the communities that have had to rely on it feel it balances out.”
Communities are blessed to have those who give of their time to serve in all weather conditions and provide such an essential service. Braschuk, who is one of them, also
expressed, “The support of the OFC is always appreciated from on the scene and during the determination of a cause.
The name(s) of the homeowner(s) wasn’t released, due to the confidentially of the Clanwilliam-Erickson Fire Rescue.
This massive fire was the third incident of 2025 covered by the CEFR and the second fire related, with the first occurring on Jan. 9. The CEFR also attended a motor vehicle accident on Jan. 28.
The home 15.5 kilometres northeast ofErickson on Road 105 North was fully engulfed prior to arrivaloffirefighters PHOTO COURTESY MARK WILLMOTT
Mazier promises life sentences for fentanyl traffickers
Local Member of Parliament, Dan Mazier says that he is promising to crack down on Canada’s deadly fentanyl crisis by committing to impose mandatory life sentences on anyone involved in the trafficking, production, and distribution of fentanyl, should Conservatives form government after the next election.
“Fentanyl is destroying families across Canada. This deadly drug has seeped into our once safe, rural communities,” said Mazier. “Making and selling fentanyl is murdering our loved ones. It’s time we stop the criminals who are poisoning our streets and hold them accountable with the toughest penalties possible,” he added.
Mazier joined Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, in pledging to impose life sentences for anyone caught trafficking, producing, or exporting over 40 mg of fentanyl. They also pledged to enforce a mandatory 15-year sentence for traffickers caught with between 20 mg and 40 mg of fentanyl. According to data, 40 mg of fentanyl is enough to kill 20 people.
Since 2016, 49,000 Canadians have died of opioid overdoses – a 200% increase. Mazier said that the rise of organized crime “superlabs” has turned Canada into a
drug manufacturing hub, with fentanyl not only devastating our communities but also being exported abroad.
Mazier criticized the current federal government for enabling this crisis.
“Despite this crisis, the NDP-Liberal coalition weakened Canada’s drug laws, eliminating mandatory jail time for fentanyl production and trafficking through Bill C-5. Their failed drug legalization experiment has unleashed crime, chaos, and addiction, leaving families and communities to suffer the consequences.” Mazier said.
“I’m hearing so many traumatizing stories about the devasting impacts of drugs in our region. It breaks my heart knowing that families no longer feel safe raising their children in our beautiful communities” he added.
Mazier said that over 80 percent of accidental opioid deaths in Canada involve fentanyl. “We can’t allow this rise in fentanyl production and distribution to continue. We will lock up the traffickers, crack down on production, and stop the flow of deadly drugs into our streets,” concluded Mazier who has also pledged to reverse Bill C-5 and C-75 which he says is responsible for the catch-and-release of repeat offenders.
Province launches campaign to encourage Manitobans to buy local
The Manitoba government has launched a new advertising campaign, Support Manitoba. Buy Local., to encourage Manitobans to support each other and grow the Manitoban economy, Premier Wab Kinew and Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation Minister Jamie Moses announced.
“Manitobans are united in their resolve to support each other and how we as consumers chose to spend our money can make a big impact,” said Kinew. “These past few weeks have made it clear that we need to diversify our economy and trading partners and buying Manitoban or Canadian will help create strong businesses and jobs here in Manitoba.” Support Manitoba. Buy Local. launched on digital platforms will expand to billboards and radio, noted the premier. The campaign includes a website that links Manitobans to made-inManitoba and made-in-
BIGGER IS BETTER
DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
This winter when it comes to snow accumulations and extreme winds, the piece of equipment with the largest bucket or blade is the one to call on to get the task completed in due time. Spotted turning off Main Street, this loader operator in Erickson is among the men and women found behind the steering wheel of snow clearing equipment throughout the area, keeping driveways cleaned, roads passable, and snow banks pushed back for a clear view.
Canada products and businesses.
“We have incredibly innovative entrepreneurs in Manitoba who create worldclass products and food that is enjoyed here at home and across our country,” said Moses. “This campaign will help highlight how Manitobans can connect with Manitoban businesses, products and services as we move to make our economy more resilient to uncertainty posed by tariffs.”
AUTHENTIC AFFECTION
While
Valentine’s is a day where romance comes to the
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
South Mountain Press
Does love have to be celebrated only on certain days?
As important as love is, shouldn’t it be celebrated every day in some form?
I often find myself pondering that question. Love isn’t just a feeling reserved for Valentine’s Day; it exists all around us in our daily lives and interactions. Valentine’s Day isn’t reserved for just romance... it can also be for friendships, family, and most importantly, an opportunity for a little self-love too!
The idea of love languages captivated me from the moment I discovered it. The theory suggests that we all express and receive love differently, articulated through five primary love languages: words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch. I wonder if some of my previous relationships might have benefited from speaking more directly in how each of us expressed and viewed our love? I do believe that understanding these languages can in fact reshape how we connect with those around us, be it a friend, family, or partner.
Reflecting on my own family, I’ve realized that my love language is quality time. I cherish the moments spent with my sons and my parents – whether we’re having a heart-to-heart conversation or simply sharing a movie night at home. My oldest son often expresses his love through words of affirmation, sending sweet texts or loving messages that brighten my day. Meanwhile, my younger son tends to show his love through acts of service, surprising me by helping around the house. It’s fascinating to see how each of us has our unique ways of loving and being loved, generating joy and connection in our relationships.
Valentine’s Day gives the opportunity where love can truly flourish... even beyond the traditional displays of affection.
Back in the day, I loved to create a customized playlist, (Do we even do that anymore?) filled with songs that reminded me of my Love, and our shared experiences. Music sure has a way of touching hearts and igniting nostalgia…
Another beautiful way to show love is by starting a memory jar. A memory jar is a fun and unique way to bring everyone together throughout the year. By jotting down notes about all the little things, you and loved
ones can look back at the end of the year and reminisce!
This isn’t for everyone, but I am a bit sentimental, so this hits home for me as a gift at any time of the year.
Speaking of gifts, I find more meaning in personalized items that reflect shared memories or inside jokes. A photo book capturing highlights from a recent family trip or a framed picture from a memorable day can speak volumes, reminding us of the experiences we’ve shared. These sentiments often hold more value than conventional gifts.
Of course, cooking together offers another opportunity to connect. For me, the kitchen is a space where laughter and conversation usually flow freely, and the shared experience transforms an ordinary evening into something truly unforgettable.
Finally, I’ve realized that an ordinary night in can become extraordinary with a bit of intention. Yes, just some extra effort and intention without the bells and whistles can speak volumes. Setting up a themed movie night at home, complete with
cozy blankets and themed snacks creates an atmosphere of love!
Regardless of how you celebrate – be it with a friend, family, or romantic partner, relationships can trigger various brain chemicals that uplift our overall mood and well-being. The joy derived from love, romantic or platonic, is both powerful and transformative.
So instead of waiting for a specific day to celebrate love, I choose to live it every day.
To the important people in my life, I love and value you!
Valentine’s Day love is not
Friday, February 14, 2025
Letters to the editor: smpnews@mymts.net
OPIN ION
V alentine’s Day a special time to love yourself
Should all these facts be true, I learnt more about geography and science by typesetting the information, than I ever did in Grade 11 as a student at the Shoal Lake Collegiate in 1977. Don’t get me wrong, teachers were present, but my mind was on far more aspects of life than education.
A well-known speaker started off his seminar by holding a $20 bill. In the room of 200, he asked, “Who would like this $20 bill?” Hands started going up. He said, “I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this.” He proceeded to crumple up the $20 bill. He then asked, “Who still wants it?” Still the hands were up in the air. “Well,” he replied, “What if I do this?” And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the
Darrell Nesbitt AROUND TOWN
floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty.
“Now, who still wants it?” Still the hands went into the air. “My friends, we have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it didn’t decrease in value. It was still worth
$20,
Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value.
Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still priceless to those who do love you. The worth of our lives comes not in what we do or who we know but by who we are!
“You are special – don’t ever forget it. And remember… Amateurs built the ark – professionals built the titanic!
Did you know.
Iceland is the only country in the world without any mosquitoes, snakes or other
reptiles. They also have very few species of spiders, which are not harmful to humans.
Hugs that last over 20 seconds release chemicals in your body called “Oxytocin” that makes you trust someone more.
Cows have best friends and get stressed when they are separated.
Everyone has a unique smell, unique fingerprint, and unique tongue print.
In the west side of Sydney there is a 102-year-old ship, which has turned into a floating forest.
There is a village in the Netherlands with no roads. The only form of transportation is by boat.
You can survive entirely on a diet of potatoes and butter, which provide all the necessary nutrients the human body needs.
There is a naturally occur-
ring black rose. They grow in only one place, a small village in Turkey called Halfeti. And they only appear black in the summer months.
Ants never sleep. Also they don’t have lungs. Oxygen enters through tiny holes all over the body and carbon dioxide leaves through the same holes.
An octopus actually has six arms and two legs, not eight legs.
Bananas are a happy fruit.
Eating just one can help you relieve irritable emotions, anger or depression.
A tiger’s tongue is so rough it can lick the paint off buildings and strip the skin from the bones of an animal.
Beer reduces the risk of developing kidney stones by 40 percent.
Germany has officially abolished college tuition fees, even for international stu-
dents.
Barcelona is the only city in the world that has been awarded a Royal Gold Medal for architecture from the Royal Institute of British Architects.
There is a road in France that can only be used twice a day, for a few hours, then it disappears under 13 feet of water.
Currently, India is the only country in the world confirmed to have both lions and tigers in its wilderness.
Tea is the most consumed drink in the world after water.
Crocodiles have no lips and can hold their breath for an hour.
Giraffes will spend about 70 percent of their day eating.
And, 25,000,000 of your cells died while you were reading this sentence.
CBC is a valuable asset to all Canadians
Dear Editor,
This is a response to the opinion piece by Kris Sims in the Feb. 7, 2025 edition on defunding the CBC. Many of us are concerned about the rising costs of everything and appreciate the need to cut “wasteful” budget items. Ms. Sims gives some compelling comments and an opinion about the CBC, but her information is incomplete.
In my reading of the latest CBC Annual Report, I did not see any evidence of the CBC wanting to eliminate or reduce subscriptions or commercial advertising revenue. I also read the Ombudsman Report (which provides administrative accountability of government funded services), both documents provide evidence on the role of the CBC, its mission and values, what programming exists, future directions and how taxpayer concerns about specific coverage have been addressed.
The CBC is a national non-partisan public broadcaster which provides balanced coverage, verified facts and the history of news items. It provides radio, television, and online broadcasting from coast to coast to coast. CBC prioritizes Canadian content, and brings us, most importantly, unbiased news coverage both locally and globally. It also provides information and entertainment that provides spin-off benefits to Canadian authors, musicians, artists, athletes, scientists and intellectuals. This content is available to all Canadians at a cost of approximately 10 cents per Canadian per day of public funding (or $33 per year).
As with other media, the
Letter
role of AI and social media have shifted how the CBC functions. We stream movies, use apps, listen to podcasts, and read blogs when we want, and where we want. This content is now available on multiple devices and in diverse formats. This availability supports the diverse needs of Canadians in rural, northern, remote and urban environments.
If we compare the salaries of senior executives of other media outlets, publicly available information shows me that Rogers’ CEO made $31.5 million last year, and Bell’s CEO made $13.4 million. The $400,000+ that CBC’s President made, although far more money than many of us will see, is not beyond the market value. The governments of other democratic countries like the UK, France, and Germany, to name a few, provide their public broadcasters with more tax support annually than what Canada provides the CBC.
Why is it important to maintain the CBC, our public broadcaster?
•It provides well researched and factual informa-
tion, and inspiring and entertaining programming uniting Canadians. It is accountable to the taxpayers. Private broadcasters are funded by corporations and billionaires. Journalists in the private sector can get fired easily if they say anything critical or for views which are different from the media company owners, even if stated privately.
•We live in a global world where news is complex and has enormous impact. We need many skilled educated people sorting through that information. Misinformation (inaccurate or incomplete) and disinformation (purposely false information used to manipulate others) is a huge international concern. We are not immune to that. I am constantly in shock about this phenomenon in which people lie for their personal gain. This kind of information erodes trust, it is a threat to social cohesion dividing us from community, family, friends.
•We live in a democracy which is potentially fragile. Many countries are at war,
and/or have some form of authoritarian government that controls information. I don’t want to live in that scenario, and I know that many other people share that view. I do not want billionaires to control my life, my country, and to make decisions for me. •Common sense and intuition have merit. If I am making big decisions about my money or my health, for example, I ask experts in the field, I search the Internet for credible, scientific, researched information from at least two other sources. I may also ask trusted friends and family. I do not believe everything I read or hear.
Common sense says it is cold out – wear my woolly socks. I would not run the country or my own life on common sense alone. This time in history demands critical thought on the mass amount of information available to us.
I grew up close to Minnedosa and graduated from Minnedosa Collegiate in 1973. I grew up with the values of honesty, trust and kindness. Never would I have guessed that I would not be able to rely on them or rely on clean water and public health care.
I am currently retired and live in Winnipeg. I do not belong to any political party.
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation would seem to be
an unbiased tax watchdog. It is not. The Alberta chapter was recently fined for failing to register as a third-party advertiser. They are entitled to support certain political views, but I expect them to be upfront about that. Ms. Sims has a history of attacking the CBC.
I encourage readers of this newspaper to explore the content that is available through the CBC. And for those of us who are committed to public broadcasting, I encourage you to express your support for the CBC to your local Member of Parliament.
Gerry Pearson Winnipeg, MB
Neepawa RCMP charge youth after stolen truck involved in collision
On Feb. 2, Neepawa RCMP responded to a two-vehicle collision on Road 104 North at Road 76 West, 3 kilometres (km) south of Glenella. When officers arrived on scene they found a truck in the south ditch, and a minivan in the north ditch of Road 104 North. The local fire department, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were already on scene.
A minivan being driven by a 24-year-old female from Amaranth lost control and a truck following struck the mini-van from behind with both vehicles ending up in separate ditches. There were two other passengers in this vehicle. When speaking with the driver of the truck, a 16-yearold male from Dauphin, officers discovered that he had outstanding warrants and was placed under arrest. There was one other occupant in the truck. Through further investigation officers learned the truck had been reported stolen out of Elm Creek. A 22year-old male, and 23-year-old
Mun.of Harrison Park
Council of the Municipality of Harrison Park (MHP) was in favour at the Jan. 29 meeting to enter into the Form 1 agreement for the Minnedosa Veterinary Services District dated Jan. 1, 2025. The MHP appointed six employees of Commissionaires Manitoba, as Enforcement Officers, to end upon termination of employment with Commissionaires Manitoba.
The fee for a cemetery columbarium niche was set at $2,500.
Public hearings were held for…
Conditional Use (CU) 2025
female both from Sandy Bay First Nation, and a 28-year-old female from McCreary all sustained minor injuries and were transported to hospital by EMS. All involved in the collision are known to each other. The driver of the truck is charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime under $5,000. He also had three outstanding Warrants of Arrest from Winnipeg Police Service, and the others from the RCMP in Dauphin and Neepawa. He was remanded into custody.
On Feb. 1, Ashern RCMP were called to a business on Railway Avenue for a report of a disturbance. When officers arrived on scene, they learned a female suspect had attacked both a male and female with a knife. During the altercation, another male was seen entering the establishment with a firearm, but quickly departed. Employees told officers shortly after that, a gunshot was heard from outside in the parking lot. A vehicle was struck, but no one was injured in the incident. The male and female suspects both fled the scene together.The victims, a 43year-old male, and 42-year-old female both from Ashern, transported themselves to hospital for treatment with minor injuries. While still at the hospital, they learned their residence was also shot at damaging a vehicle. Officers made patrols in the area but were unable to locate the suspects.
On Jan. 27, Berens River
Municipal Minutes
CU-01 and Variation 2025 V-02
– Malarky Land Inc. – Approved allowing for a nonfarm single family dwelling within the A80 zone, on NE 316-20 WPM.
2025 V-01, applied for by Terraus and Gail Kowaluk –Approved allowing reduction of rear yard setback from 12.5’ to 6’ for a 20’ x 12’ deck. Councillor Kowalick left the meeting while matter dealt with.
By-Law No. 156 – Development Plan Amendment –Smith.
Second reading was given to By-Law No. 156, a by-law to amend the MHP Development Plan By-law No. 138, as amended.
First reading was given to
By-Law No. 167 – to regulate the proceedings and conduct of the council and the committees thereof.
Tabled – By-Law No. 169 –Trailer Park Licencing, Councillor’s Privilege included… Councillor Skolney indicated the need for a longterm plan for strategic information. Councillor Andreychuk addressed the need for volunteers to sit on the AWWD board. Reeve Drul also expressed volunteers are needed for the Regional AgeFriendly committee. He also reported the Minister of Immigration is recruiting nurses, doctors and veterinarians through an accreditation program.
HARRISON PARK 2025 GRANT APPLICATIONS
Grant applications are now being accepted from non profit organizations who wish to be considered for grant funding in the 2025 fiscal year. Grants will not be provided to religious organizations. All grant requests must be accompanied by current financial statements. Applications must be completed and submitted to the Municipal Office by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 21, 2025.
Applications will be reviewed by the Municipality of Harrison Park Council. Approved grant funds will be issued following final approval of the 2025 Financial Plan.
Application forms and additional information are available at the Onanole office, Phone 204 848 7614 or on the Municipal website: www.harrisonpark.ca
RCMP received a report of gunshots near a residence located in the community.Officers spoke with the victim who advised that his home had been shot at and damaged. A vehicle had been seen leaving the scene prior to police arrival. No injuries were reported. An examination of the area by officers on scene led to the recovery of 25 shell casings from various types of firearms. Berens River RCMP, along with RCMP Forensic Identification Services, continue to investigate.
The RCMP is committed to using every available technology and asset to secure the border between Canada and the United States. This includes airplanes with advanced thermal imaging capabilities to detect illegal activity near the border. The RCMP will also continue to work closely with law enforcement partners in the United States to ensure intelligence is rapidly shared to ensure a coordinated response to any border incursion.On Jan. 14 a
group of six individuals was detected heading towards the Manitoba border, approximately 15 km east of Emerson.
An RCMP plane equipped with thermal imaging was actively patrolling the border and quickly located the six individuals and directed ground units to the location. RCMP officers in vehicles responded immediately and began searching for the group who had fled into a wooded area. With the RCMP plane directing officers on the ground, all six were arrested without incident (one Jordanian, three Sudanese, one Chadian and one Mauritanian) and transferred to the Canadian Border Services Agency.
Manitoba added
2,000 jobs in January
New Statistics Canada data shows 2,000 jobs were added in Manitoba in the month of January and the province continues to see average weekly earnings go up, Finance Minister Adrien Sala announced.
From December 2024 to this January, Manitoba’s unemployment rate dropped 0.1 percentage point, which is 0.5
percentage points below the national average. Private sector employment also increased by 3,200 jobs or 0.6 percent, which was higher than the national average growth of 0.5 percent. Average weekly earnings went up 4.8 percent on a yearover-year basis, well above the national average of 3.5 percent, the minister noted.
6 Friday, February 14, 2025
Chiefs go 0 for 3 on the week
The Yellowhead Chiefs had a tough week in the Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League suffering three losses on home ice in Shoal Lake.
The Chiefs, who have five games remaining in the 202425 season, remain in the basement of the 13-team league with a record of 7-33-2.
EASTMAN 6 CHIEFS 1
The Selects completed the sweep of the series with a 6-1 win on Sunday, Feb. 9.
Daniel DeGagne with a pair, Ty Mistelbacher, Josh Borgfjord, Kasen Mateychuk and Grayson Slaney scored for the hosts.
Redden Richmond replied for the Chiefs, who trailed 2-0 and 3-1 by periods.
Wyatt Minsky earned the win in goal, stopping 23 shots. Cole Lelond finished with a whopping 52 saves in the Yellowhead net.
EASTMAN 4 CHIEFS 2
The Selects held period leads of 2-0 and 3-0 enroute to a 4-2 win over the Chiefs on Saturday, Feb. 8. Grayson Slaney, Noah Stott, Ty Mistelbacher and Daniel DeGagne had the Eastman goals.
Alec Strachan and Colby Asselstine tallied for the Chiefs.
Wyatt Minsky made 37 saves in the Eastman net, while Connor Rapley stopped
Chiefs captain Chase Cochrane battles with an Eastman defender during action in ShoalLake on Feb.8
44 drives for the Chiefs. PARKLAND 4 CHIEFS 3
Ryder Gardner scored with 1:01 remaining in the third period to give the Rang-
ers a 4-3 win over the Chiefs in Shoal Lake on Tuesday, Feb. 4. The Chiefs led 2-0 and 2-1 at the intermissions. Both teams scored a pair of short-
handed goals.
Cade Legaarden, Dayson Martin and Forrest Karlson had the other goals for the Rangers.
Alec Strachan, Riley
Swereda and Oliver Nickel were the Yellowhead marksmen.
Piet Mierau made 28 saves in goal for Parkland, while Connor Rapley stopped 46
Sunday, Feb. 15.
Female Chiefs to meet Brandon in playoffs
The Yellowhead Chiefs are preparing for the playoffs after finishing fourth in the Manitoba U18 Female AAA Hockey League this season.
The Chiefs compiled a 1714-1 record, finishing 11 points behind the third place Winnipeg Ice.
The Chiefs will take on the Brandon Wheat Kings in the opening round of the playoffs with the series kicking off in Shoal Lake on Thursday, Feb. 20. Game two will be played in Brandon on Saturday, Feb. 22, with game three set for Tuesday, Feb. 25 in Shoal Lake. Games four and five, both if necessary, would be played on Thursday, Feb. 27 in Brandon and Saturday, March 1 in Shoal Lake.
EASTMAN 6 CHIEFS 0
The Selects outshot the Chiefs 37-15 as they cruised to a 6-0 win in Niverville on Sunday, Feb. 9.
U18 C Y
Isabelle Labossiere earned the shutout for the hosts, while Gracie Johnston suffered the loss for the Chiefs. Danyel Heppner recorded a hat trick for the Selects, with Sophia Heidinger notching a pair. Isabelle Carriere chipped in with a single.
WPG.AVROS
3 CHIEFS 2
The Avros came back from a 2-1 first period deficit to edge the Chiefs 3-2 on Saturday, Feb. 8 in Winnipeg. Liberty Aime, Cali Lavallee and Leah Claussen scored for the hosts, while Jordan Woloski and Jordyn Veitch replied for Yellowhead.
Madelynne Sylvestre and Adriana Almeida combined to stop 18 shots for the win in goal. Clair Merckx made 35
saves in the Yellowhead net.
CHIEFS 2 WPG.ICE 1
Jordan Woloski’s second goal of the season midway through the third period was the game winner as the Chiefs doubled the Ice 2-1 in Shoal Lake on Friday, Feb. 7.
Sophie Woznesensky gave the Ice a 1-0 first period lead, but Kirby Gray tied the game for the Chiefs in the second.
Clair Merckx was strong
Thecostofadvertisingissmallwhenyouthinkof thenumberofpeoplewhowillpotentiallyattended youreventsimplybecausetheysawyouradinthis newspaper.Ifthecostofadvertisingiscoveredby justtwoorthreeadmissionstoyourevent,any additionalguestsyouwelcomeismoneyinyour pocket.ADVERTISINGDOESNOTCOST,ITPAYS!
SATURDAY, FEB. 15
7:00 P.M. vs .MOOSE JAW
TUESDAY, FEB. 18
7:00 P.M. vs .PRINCE ALBERT FRIDAY, FEB. 21 7:00 P.M. vs .CALGARY
shots for the Chiefs. NOTES – The Chiefs will take on the Interlake Lightning in Teulon on
PHOTO BY DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAI N PRESS
between the pipes, turning aside 34 shots for the win.
Gina Plett made 26 saves in
the Winnipeg net. NOTES - Elkhorn’s Kirby Gray finished the regular
season as the club’s leader in both points with 38 and goals with 18.
MONTGOMERY’S SWAN SONG
John Michael Montgomery’s final Canadian performance to take place at Dauphin’s Countryfest as 2025 lineup named
DARRELL NESBITT
South Mountain Press
Two legends of country music are getting ready to say goodbye to touring in 2025. One of them, John Michael Montgomery, will take to the Play Now main stage at Dauphin’s Countryfest this June.
Since his 1992 hit “Life’s A Dance,” Montgomery’s songs have touched countless fans. He dominated radio with number ones like “I Love the Way You Love Me,” “I Swear,” and “I Can Love You Like That”. His album sales have topped 16 million copies.
After 30 years on tour, Montgomery wants to spend more time with family. Though he might still pop up for occasional shows after the farewell tour ends.
But don’t despair, if you missed the announcement, the 60-year-old singer will bring his American country music talent and a set of hit songs to Countryfest’s amphitheatre on Sunday, June 29.
Fans of Montgomery will be interested to know that Countryfest will be his final Canadian performance, as part of his ‘Road To Home’ farewell tour.
“It’s been a wonderful run for me from the beginning over 30 years ago in 1992 when my first song ‘Life’s A Dance’ was released to radio either as a 45 vinyl or on a cassette tape, as CDs had not quite taken over the market yet and the internet was still in its infancy,” shares Montgomery on his website. “It amazes me where it is today.”
While he has played everywhere in the country and parts of the world, and had a wonderful career, Montgomery has had enough of the road. He’s come to a point where it’s time to hang up his cowboy hat and focus on what really matters most to him.
Montgomery’s career started back in the early 1990s, playing dive bars in his hometown of Danville, KY, until the day Nashville came calling. With 16 million albums sold and 15 No. 1 singles, Montgomery has estab-
lished a style rooted in his impassioned delivery, wonderful storytelling and rich baritone voice. A ticket to a Montgomery concert is like a chance to reconnect with an old friend. The singer tells stories and plays songs that span his entire career, which will truly uplift the throw-
back or retro Sunday theme.
“We have been informed that Montgomery will play his final Canadian show in Manitoba,” stated Countryfest president, Duane McMaster. “We feel the lineup is solid, with plenty of quality entertainment.”
Four other outstanding
acts will hit the stage prior to Montgomery bringing down the 2025 party. They are Deana Carter, Neal McCoy, Mark Chestnutt, and Lonestar.
The festival, running June 26 to 29, will open with Kick Off with Torque on June 26. Also confirmed as
headliners this year are Josh Ross, a Canadian singer / songwriter, and Jordan Davis, both having hits on the radio charts.
Ross draws his influence from the likes of Guns N’s Roses to country-rock outlaw Steve Earle. He will be joined on stage by other newer and up and coming acts – Jackson Dean, Drake Milligan, and Kalsey Kulyk.
The Saturday night show will be a great one, with Corb Lund getting it all started, followed by Meghan Patrick, and none other than The Road Hammers featuring host Jason McCoy leading into Jordan Davis. The Road Hammers will no doubt kick a little, showcasing high energy and hi-jinx to the Selo Ukraina site, south of the city.
The second countrymusic artist to bid farewell to the road is Alan Jackson, whose “Last Call: One More for the Road” ends May 17. He’s stepping away because of his ongoing struggle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, which makes it hard for him to move around on stage. Both artists shot to fame in the early 1990s. They helped define country music’s sound during that time, each creating hit after hit that went platinum. Jackson is among the artists that can say Dauphin’s Countryfest is a great place to play.
John MichaelMontgomery’s album sales have topped 16 million copies over 30 years in music
Canada deserves better trade and leadership
President Trump’s threat of tariffs has uncovered an uncomfortable truth about Canada’s economy. We are far too dependent on the United States. With inflation rising and economic growth slowing, Canadians are already feeling the effects. We can no longer ignore the deep-rooted issues that are holding us back. If we truly want job growth, we need to tackle these problems head-on.
One simple but powerful solution is right in front of us. We need to eliminate the trade barriers within our own country. It is frustrating and illogical that it is easier to trade with other countries than it is to trade with fellow Canadians. Incredibly, interprovincial trade accounts for just 36% of Canada’s GDP, while international trade makes up a staggering 66%. This means we are doing more business with the rest of the world than we are with each other. Not only does this limit our potential, but it also creates unnecessary roadblocks for businesses and workers.
Why does this imbalance exist? Each province has its own set of rules and regulations governing everything from goods to services. Instead of creating a unified market, these regulations make it harder for businesses and professionals to operate across provincial borders. The Canada Free Trade Agreement was meant to solve this issue, but it has failed. With 245 exemptions, it’s more difficult to trade within Canada than it is to trade internationally.
The economic impact of fixing this is huge. If we could eliminate these internal barriers, it could add an astonishing $200 billion to Canada’s economy every year. That’s about $5,100 for every person in the country. Imagine what that could do for our industries, our job market, and our standard of living. We could create more competitive markets, better access to talent, and stronger, more diverse industries. The possibilities are endless.
One proposal gaining attention is from Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative Party. His plan for a Blue Seal Professional Licensing Standard would allow skilled workers to move freely across provinces, easing labour shortages in key sectors, especially healthcare. This isn’t just about helping workers, it’s about helping patients, families, and communities who rely on these essential services. It’s a practical solution that could make a real difference in the lives of Canadians.
Poilievre also suggests redirecting the increased federal tax revenue from reducing internal trade barriers into provincial priorities such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. This would ensure that the solution is revenueneutral, meaning no added strain on the national debt. Unlike the growing deficits we’ve seen in recent years, this approach focuses on reinvesting in our own communities, ensuring a stronger economy for everyone.
Some may worry that promoting free trade within Canada could harm our international trade agreements. But that’s a misconception. Strengthening our internal trade is about making Canada more self-sufficient. It’s about reducing our dependence on foreign markets that we cannot control and building an economy that stands strong on its own. This is about taking control of our economic future.
We can no longer settle for the status quo. The barriers between our provinces have existed for far too long, and the time to act is now. By removing these obstacles, we can unlock the true potential of our economy and create a more connected and prosperous Canada. The question is whether we are ready to make the necessary changes. The answer should be a resounding yes.
Levi Cottingham Birtle, MB
IN GOOD SPIRITS
VENTON BEATTY/FOR SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
Spotted in the Ditch Lake area recently, this young buck seems to be in good spirits, as he should be, having made it through hunting season unharmed. Deer act as scavengers during the winter season, dining on whatever they can find. In high snowfall years such as this winter, their diet includes small branches and twigs, winter-green plants, and other foods they can search out like acorns and clover.
Bouquet of flowers demonstrates love
The art of floral design is a very proud form of art that has been around for thousands of years. The diversity of style is amazing and will reflect a variety of social, religious and cultural trends. It is a part of social interactions, of interior design and is very important in relationships and for enhancing the overall quality of our lives. Working with flowers is fun but also brings a dimension to our life that is purely pleasing. Having a bad day –then make a bouquet! Feeling sad – bring some joy to your life by working with a bunch of flowers that smile for you!
Flowers are both beautiful and functional. We enjoy their colour, their scent and often forget that the real significance of a flower from the plants’ perspective is to provide a means of reproduction. Flowers have played a role in many cultures throughout the years, symbolizing an identity, a goal or aspiration and even may have special religious significance.
We also mark special days with flowers – births, deaths, weddings and a host of other special occasions to give thanks, to say… “I love you” or to just say I am thinking about you. In fact, individual types of flowers have been given special meanings, which you may consider when you are giving flowers as a gift.
The floral industry itself is huge. It is a multi-billion dollar industry that brightens our lives at every special holiday and event in our lives. It does make a great contribution to our economy and provides a host of employment opportunities. Valentine’s Day –Feb. 14 is one of the busiest days for florists, candy shops, lingerie shops and restaurants. It is “expected” to give and receive flowers, chocolate, to go for a romantic date and more!
During Victorian times, flowers were given special meanings and small bouquets would be given to sweethearts to demonstrate love. The rose has been forever a symbol of love, beauty and peace and evidence of cultivation of roses dates back to over 5,000 years ago. Over Valentine’s over 250 million roses will be harvested and
Patricia Hanbidge GARDENING
bring in over two billion dollars in sales!
If you receive cut flowers from your valentine, then here are a few tips to prolong their life and beauty. Begin with a clean vase. If your container was previously used, then wash it with hot, soapy water to remove any debris and destroy bacteria and fungi that might shorten the life of your cut flowers. Cut off the bottom half inch of your flowers to aid in water uptake. Ensure all foliage is removed beneath the water line. When your flowers begin to wilt, just give them a quick recut to ensure the stems are able to take water up to the blooms and rewash and refill the vase with clean water as well as more of the floral preservative if you have some.
Cut flowers are not the only option as there are also many potted plants now available everywhere. It is impossible to walk into any grocer without being greeted by flowering potted plants of every colour and type. Remember that our homes are not really welcoming to plants that would normally live in areas with brighter light and higher humidity. Our plants in our houses are stressed during our long winter months so ensure you are giving them the care they deserve for brightening up our lives!
Hope your February is going well and your heart is full with all of what gives us joy during our winter!
Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us atwww.orchidhort.com; by email atinfo@orchidhort.com; or on facebook @orchidhort.
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
Become your own genetic engineer
Q: Can you explain how what you eat changes your resistance to or risk for chronic conditions like heart disease or cancer? – Stephanie R., Nashville, TN
A: That’s a complicated topic, but a very important one. First of all, there are many genes in the body that can be turned on or off in response to your behaviors, such as diet, exercise, smoking, drinking excessively, feeling chronic stress, and by environmental exposure to toxins. Some of these socalled epigenetic changes happen in part because lifestyle choices alter your gut biome and intestinal lining. When you are positively changing your gut biome, you cause those microbes to make their own beneficial genetic changes. Those changes in the gut’s bacteria then lead to positive epigenetic changes in you that protect you from heart disease, cancer, and other chronic conditions, as well as infections.
Upgrading your diet is one of the most powerful ways to make healthpromoting epigenetic changes. A new study in Nature shows that a cascade of goodness starts with eating high-fiber foods like artichokes, legumes, apples, avocados, almonds, walnuts and whole grains. They help the gut produce short-chain fatty acid metabolites that switch on a gene in the lining of your intestines. That gene then turns on another gene that produces a protein that protects you from cancer. Like we said, it’s a cascade!
We aren’t at the point where we can pinpoint what to eat to make a specific ge-
netic change to your benefit ... that’s coming down the road, as Dr. Mike details in “The Great Age Reboot.” But we know enough to say that the dietary choices you make have far-reaching effects on your long-term health and longevity. To optimize the epigenetic changes that help protect your health, eliminate red and processed red meat and sugar substitutes, increase your consumption of fiber-rich foods and – Dr. Mike’s favorite – take bovine colostrum to prevent damage to your intestinal lining and help reverse the damage already done. And sign up for the free newsletter at LongevityPlaybook.com.
Q: Can you please explain this “new definition of obesity” that’s all over the news? – Tony J., Boston, MA
A: In a nutshell, a group of 58 experts got together to create a more accurate way to identify obesity and diagnose health complications it can cause. They recommend a shift from using Body Mass Index (a measure of height and weight that doesn’t account for the
amount of muscle versus fat) to using the amount of excess body fat you’re carrying. As with pre-diabetes and full-blown Type 2 diabetes, they propose a diagnosis of preclinical obesity – you have extra body fat but your internal organ systems are still working normally – and clinical obesity, when excess fat has damaged your organs and tissues. In their article in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, they stress that clinical obesity can lead to severe organ damage, causing complications such
as heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.
You can assess how much body fat you are carrying by measuring your waist circumference (35 inches or less for most women and 40 inches or less for men is healthy) or waist-to-height ratio (between 0.4 and 0.49 is the healthy range). Clinical obesity requires evidence of limits to the function of your organs and tissues and/or evidence that obesity is interfering with daily activities. Body fat is excessive when it’s above 25% of total body weight for men and 30-
38% for women.
The new way of defining obesity is important because it includes specific information on complications that are affecting organ systems and includes quality of life issues that may need to be addressed medically.
If you have excess body fat, you can reverse it using the newer weight loss medication, upgrading your diet, increasing your physical activity and improving sleep habits while you manage stress. For more info, check out “6 Tips for Weight Management that Lasts” at
iHerb.com/blog and our book “You: On a Diet, revised edition.”
Dr. Mike Roizen is the founder of www.longevity playbook.com, and Dr. Mehmet Oz is global advisor to www.iHerb.com, the world’s leading online health store. Roizen and Oz are chief wellness officer emeritus at Cleveland Clinic and professor emeritus at Columbia University, respectively. Together they have written 11 New York Times bestsellers (four No. 1’s).
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COMING EVENTS
Minnedosa Adult Learning Cen-
tre’s Computer Course starts the week of Feb. 24. Contact Val Gawel in Room 2 of the Minnedosa Collegiate, 74 Armitage Ave. Phone: 204-867-2519 or email alc@rrsd.mb.ca.
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Has your organization ever called up Facebook and asked them for a donation to your cause? Local businesses rely on local support to exist. Shop local today.
WANTED
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.
ARTICLES FOR SALE
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next week it will be half price. Planning an event? If you tell them they WILL come. Call Michelle at 204759-2644 ext. 1.
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Grounds of Schools in the Rolling River School Division for the 3-year period •Spring 2025 to Fall 2027
The successful service provider must:
• Have appropriate equipment and be available to perform grass cutting and mowing on a regular and as need basis at the school(s) they bid on.
• Make site visit to determine what areas are to be cut and trimmed.
For detailed information and to review specifications and general conditions for the price quotation, please visit our website at www.rrsd.mb.ca Select Division link then Tenders link. Closing date for Price Quotation is Feb. 28, 2025.
South Mountain Press
Friday, February 14, 2025
U15 female Chiefs move into first
The Yellowhead Chiefs moved into first place in the Manitoba U15 Female AAA Hockey League with a pair of home ice wins in Shoal Lake over the weekend.
The Chiefs, who have a record of 18-5-2, are one point ahead of the Pembina Valley Hawks and Eastman
U15 C Y
Selects.
CHIEFS 5 INTERLAKE 0
Pyper Rapley stopped 35
shots to record the shutout as the Chiefs blanked the Lightning 5-0 in Shoal Lake on Saturday, Feb. 8.
Haley Chipelski and Chloe Facey each scored twice for the hosts, who took control with four goals in the second period after a scoreless first. Hadley Bry-
ant had the other Yellowhead marker.
WESTMAN 6 CHIEFS 5
The Wildcats led the entire game as they handed the Chiefs a 6-5 loss in Deloraine on Friday, Feb. 7. The loss was the first in 16 games for the Chiefs.
Georgia Koop scored a pair of goals for the hosts, including the game winner. Single markers were added by Maisie Green, Lily Wells, Chloe Astle and Emerson Kempthorne.
Haley Chipelski scored twice for the Chiefs, with Hayla Mathison, Hadley Bry-
ant and Addison Luhowy chipping in with singles. Maddie Flannery made 17 saves in the Westman net.
NOTES – The Chiefs are on the road this week, playing a pair of games in Carman against the Pembina Valley Hawks.
U15 male Chiefs suffer pair of losses on the week
The Yellowhead U15 Chiefs suffered a pair of losses in Winnipeg AAA Hockey League action last weekend.
The Chiefs currently sport a 3-20-1-2 record and sit in fourth place in the league’s West Division.
BRANDON 15 CHIEFS 4
Ethan Chen had a hat trick as the Brandon Wheat
U15
Kings thumped the Chiefs 154 on Sunday, Feb. 9 in Brandon.
Sullivan Taylor, Brayden Watt, Nash Lenton, and Carson Fowler each scored a pair of goals for the Wheat Kings,
while Etienne Visser, Graycen Van Meijl, Mason Woychyshyn and Cashton Chastellaine added singles. Colin Melnyk, Lane McDonald, Burke Dunits, and Jude Carr replied for the Chiefs, who trailed 6-2 and 113 at the intermissions.
Cash Didluck made 21 saves to earn the win in goal for Brandon, while Noah Wohlgemuth turned aside 28
shots in the Yellowhead net.
CENTRAL PLAINS 4 CHIEFS 1
Despite outshooting the visiting Capitals 42-32, the Chiefs could only get one past goaltender Nicholas Bertholet, as Central Plains downed Yellowhead 4-1 on Saturday, Feb. 8 in Shoal Lake.
Maguire Lepp, Reid Munro, Devin Kendall, and
Alex Ferguson scored for the Capitals, who led 2-1 after two periods after the teams went scoreless in the first.
Sawyer Lepp scored the lone goal for Yellowhead.
Ben Anderson made 28 stops in goal for the Chiefs.
NOTES: The Chiefs have a busy next week and a half, with five games on tap. This weekend, Yellowhead will host the Parkland Rangers on
Friday, Feb. 14, and the Interlake Lightning on Saturday, Feb. 15. For the third game in four nights, the Winnipeg Thrashers White will come to Shoal Lake for a matchup on Monday, Feb. 17. The following weekend the Chiefs will hit the road to Winnipeg for two games, taking on the Winnipeg Wild Green on Feb. 21 and the Winnipeg Thrashers Blue on Saturday, Feb. 22.
Action continues in Westman High SchoolHockey League
The Hamiota-Rivers-EltonStrathclair Huskies and Minnedosa-Erickson Chancellors are among the top 10 teams in the Westman High School Hockey League.
The Huskies are in fifth place, one point back of the
HIGH SCHOOL
Killarney-Wawanesa Raiders. The Chancellors are tied for eighth place, three points back of Neepawa and Virden.
ME 6 RGG 3
Minnedosa-Erickson –Zachary Lamb (2), Myles Beatty, Colby Pentecost, Brody Marnock, Jager Atkinson Roblin-Grandview-Gilbert Plains – Eastyn Hramalak (2), Zach Rolland
HRES 10 RGG 3
Hamiota-Rivers-EltonStrathclair – Chael Rozdeba (2), Samuel Rivas-Banos (2), Pierce Cords (2), Harlen Bridges, Jack Oakden, Sev Antonio, Nathan Espenell Roblin-Grandview-Gilbert
Plains – Carter Johnston, Ryder Newton, Eastyn Hramalak Neepawa 5 HRES 3 Neepawa – Ian Foster (3), Cohen Kulbacki (2) Hamiota-Rivers-EltonStrathclair – Harlen Bridges (2), Jack Oakden
ME 8 BDWP 1
Minnedosa-Erickson – Myles Beatty (2), William Melvin (2), Jager Atkinson, Kaius Kroeker, ZacharyLamb, Aiden McGorman
Boissevain-DeloraineWaskada-Pierson – Tyson Polnik
