SMP - Feb. 21, 2025

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Press

Friday, FEBRUARY 21, 2025 Vo lum e 17 N um b e r22

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VE N T O N BE AT T Y / F O R SO U T H M O U N T AIN PR E SS While this long stretch of blistering cold has felt punishing, the rare non-windy day out in the cold almost brings one a sense of peace, as was the case on a recent evening in the Ditch Lake area. The long term forecast now switches from the bitter cold to unseasonably warm temperatures which brings about its own set of challenges, as the fluctuating road conditions present obstacles for travellers. No matter the exact temperature of the day, be sure to always pack a toque and mitts before hitting the highway.

M unicip a lities unite to a dvoca te for H igh w a y 45 RAC HEAL FLIN TO FT So uth M o unta in Pre ss

Municipalities across the region, including Rossburn Municipality, the Municipality of Russell Binscarth, the Rural Municipality (R.M.) of Riding Mountain West, and Waywayseecappo First Nation are coming together to urgently address the future of Highway 45, a key route that connects their locations.

Municipal leaders, along with a

representative from Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure (MTI) gathered on Feb. 11, to tour the highway between Russell and Waywayseecappo and discuss needed upgrades to RTAC (Roads and Transportation Association of Canada) standards, a critical step for improving safety and accessibility.

“The condition of Hwy 45 has become a significant concern for our daily commuters,” said Glenda Lemcke, CAO of the R.M. of Riding

Mountain West. “It impacts everything from healthcare access to the safety of our children.”

She spoke passionately about the long-standing need for provincial attention and action.

For over three decades, local leaders have struggled to communicate to provincial authorities the urgency of the highway’s deteriorating state. About 25 years ago, when the railway was removed, traffic diverted to the highway. On account,

other regions that faced similar shifts received upgrades to their roads, but Hwy 45 lacked the same attention.

“Despite over 30 years of municipal governance, we still face unresponsive provincial leaders,” Lemcke stated. “This highway’s importance cannot be overstated.”

The Hwy 45 corridors have been full of issues, from poor road conditions that make daily commutes often risky to slowing access to health-

care, affecting both residents and the broader local economy. Freight trucks find it challenging, and accidents have become a concerning pattern. Along with all stakeholders, Lemcke is calling for action.

“We’re advocating to upgrade Hwy 45 from Russell to Oakburn.

It is necessary to meet the demands of our local haulers and businesses.”

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2

South Mountain Press

Friday, February 21, 2025

Post office attacks highlight the need to get tough on crim e Over the past few months, rural post offices across our communities have been under attack. I am aware of at least 250 mailboxes that have been broken into in various communities throughout our region.

Criminals have targeted post offices with break-ins, theft, and vandalism in the communities of Neepawa, Minnedosa, Rivers, Kelwood, Arden, Austin, MacGregor, Carberry, Rapid City, Erickson, Onanole, and Sandy Lake – with more stories emerging every week. This is not a coincidence; this is the work of repeat offenders who have no fear of consequences.

I have been meeting with law enforcement, post office representatives, and my colleagues in Ottawa to address this issue. And while I find it troubling most post offices do not even have security cameras, seeing there is a clear pattern of behaviour from these crimes, I’m confident this series of attacks on our post offices are by the same in-

Letter dividuals who would not be deterred by a camera.

This wave of crime has forced some post offices to lock their doors at night, denying rural Canadians access to their own mail. This is unacceptable. Unlike in urban centres, rural residents do not have home delivery. When these criminals strike, they are not just stealing mail; they are robbing families, seniors, and businesses of their essential services.

Section 356(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada makes mail theft a serious offence – in fact, this offence is punishable by up to 10 years in prison Рyet time and time again, these criminals walk free.

This pattern of repeat offenders is not limited to our post offices though.

As I meet with countless victims of crime in my role as your Member of Parliament, it

has become very clear that too many offenders are out on bail, enabled by laws like Bill C-75, which allow criminals to be in jail one day and out on bail the next. We need real consequences for repeat offenders who prey on our communities, not a revolving door that lets them walk free to strike again.

Meanwhile, violent crime is up 50% in Canada, and instead of strengthening our justice system, the Liberal-NDP coalition in Ottawa is putting criminals first and communities second. This must stop.

We need stronger enforcement, tougher penalties, and the necessary resources for law enforcement.

There is also a growing number of rural Canadians who are being targeted by criminals simply because of where they live. Criminals deliberately prey on rural Canadians knowing the response time from law enforcement is delayed.

That is why I worked with

my Conservative colleagues to introduce Bill C-364, which would have amended the Criminal Code by adding an aggravating factor for purposefully targeting an individual in a rural area who is far from emergency services.

Bill C-364 would have also changed the Criminal Code’s legal definition of “dwellinghouse” to “place”, because many break-ins happen to barns and sheds. It is no secret that valuables are kept in storage in rural areas. Unfortunately, when Justin Trudeau shut down Parliament through prorogation, he prevented all legislation from moving forward.

The safety of our communities must be protected. The catch-and-release, soft-on-crime policies must be repealed before more harm is inflicted on our communities.

Rural Canadians deserve better.

Dan Mazier Member of Parliament Dauphin-Swan River-Neepawa

W hat was lost is found fast Dear Editor: During the third week in October 2024, I took some items to be donated to Minnedosa’s Heritage Pioneer Village, along with my only Original 1944 Professional Navy photograph of my father D. Roy Baker of Hamilton, ON (1919 – 2017), previous owner of the items being donated. I wished to show his picture as I submitted a write-up.

I was devastated to discover that the photo had disappeared from my vehicle. While walking her dog, and being led to where she didn’t wish to go, Linda Toews of Clanwiliam found the picture, and posted it front and back on the Town of Minnedosa social media site, wondering whose it was?

Twenty minutes later,

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Letter our daughter Laura of Brookdale just happened to be checking out Minnedosa’s site for social activities and noticed the picture, then notified me, and contacted Linda.

Linda personally delivered the picture to me in Neepawa. Both being strangers, Linda tells me that we are both cousins of my cousin Karen (Briese) Janzen, formerly of Neepawa, but we come from opposite sides of the family tree.

The photo was in perfect condition, and I’m truly blessed and grateful to have it found by such a wonderful and caring individual. Thank you Linda!

Barbara J. Jardine Neepawa, MB

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South Mountain Press

Friday, February 21, 2025

3

LENDING A HAND

The n eed for volun teers in our loca l com m un ities is ex trem ely a p p a ren ta n d tha tn eed is con tin uin g to grow RAC HEAL FLIN TO FT So uth M o unta in Pre ss

Over the past few years, volunteering has woven itself into the fabric of my life. Initially, it wasn’t something I ever gave much thought to, but as I have become more involved, I noticed the significant role volunteers play in our communities.

But, if there is one pressing issue that stands out the most, it is the unwavering shortage of volunteers in the community landscape. The need for volunteers is extremely apparent and continues to grow… especially as our population ages and funding for paid positions becomes a rare commodity.

Yes, it is true that volunteering is not always about doing what we love or are passionate about. But volunteers are needed everywhere… in the good, bad, and darn right ugly of positions.

While some opportunities easily attract volunteers, many essential tasks are over-

looked simply because they aren’t glamorous or convenient. This can leave gaps in community services, which are increasingly harder to fill as the older generation, who had volunteerism instilled in them from an early age, are less able to contribute.

Life is unquestionably busy; with jobs, families, and personal obligations, finding time to volunteer might seem impossible. As I personally dive deeper into volunteering, I do witness firsthand the ripple effect volunteering creates.

I have come to realize that even a couple of hours a month can profoundly impact an organization and the entire community in fact.

Importantly, we must recognize and thank those who volunteer. When I see a volunteer, I am thankful. It’s also inspiring to witness the diverse backgrounds and stories volunteers bring to the table.

Too often, their efforts go unnoticed when they should be celebrated. Volunteers are the backbone of countless organi-

Thank You

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BR O N ZE SPO N SO R S ~ $500+ Birch Con struction Ltd. C. Burton En terp rises Com p a ss Credit Un ion Elkhorn R esort& K la r So N ordic Sp a Erickson Lion s Club Gra n d Va lley An im a l Clin ic H illside P lum bin g & H ea tin g K en Bea tty Con struction Ltd. Lee Isla n d F a rm s Ltd. M in n edosa Legion La dies Aux ilia ry M in ty’s M ovin g N eep a w a N urses W orksite 12 P a rklin e Auto R M of H a rrison P a rk R ob Sm ith & Son Ba ckhoe R ockin The F ields of M in n edosa R oya l Ca n a dia n Legion Br #138 M in n edosa R oya l Ca n a dia n Legion Br #143 Erickson Sla ter Tra n sp ort Ltd. Stride CreditUn ion The Stow a w a y In n Tow n of M in n edosa N ot to m en tion other n um erous busin esses w ho don a ted to us in order to m a ke our 2024 even t com e true!

zations that struggle with limited funding, finding it nearly impossible to hire paid staff.

It is crucial that we keep volunteering at the forefront of our minds and recognize volunteering as a necessity, especially in rural communities like those across our region.

Volunteering doesn’t have to be a huge commitment; it can be as simple as mentoring a child, helping at a community garden, a hockey rink, a hospital, care home, or even participating in a clean-up at a local park. Each small action contributes to the larger picture…

Personally, I can say that embracing volunteering has been transformative, selfdeveloping, and fulfilling. It has allowed me to contribute to my community in meaningful ways while still managing a busy family life. I’ve gained insights that have been invaluable to me both personally and professionally, including leadership skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse groups.

The Little Valley Jamboree Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in supporting our 2024 recipients: Isla, Evie and Daphne, as well as many other kids in the Westman area, with their medical needs.

Because of YOU we were thrilled to present cheques for $13,000 to each recipient.

To the M C’s & Ba n ds w ho volun teered to com e M a n y ba n ds ha ve been com in g for severa l yea rs rightfrom the sta rt, show ca sin g their a m a zin g ta len t, a n d w e a p p recia te you a ll so m uch. Both of our M C’s w ere a m a zin g a n d took a n en tire da y to com e sp en d w ith us.

• Quen tin D erha k (M C) • Steve La n gston (M C) • Ba rn ya rd Ba n dits • Va lley W om en • The Steven Sm ith Trio • The Ba d M a rleys

• The New Highw a y 25 • Better Tha n • Bra d John son & The Ta len t • Trevor Crook • J4K • M ea ga n F erguson & a ll the kids!

To the JAM com m ittee w ho volun teer to keep the kitchen , refreshm en ts, sup p ortsta ff, setup a n d ta ke dow n run n in g sm oothly • Erickson & D istrictCha m ber of Com m erce • Erickson & D istrictR ecrea tion Cen tre • Erickson Ska tin g R in k • Little Ha n ds Ea rly Lea rn in g Cen tre • Erickson K iddie K ollege • Cla n w illia m -Erickson F ire R escue • Erickson Lion s Club To a n yon e w ho sold tickets, help ed collectdon a tion s, tech sup p ort, volun teered, m a de p urcha ses of tickets a n d a uction item s… w e n eed you ALL to m a ke Little Va lley Ja m boree a success!

In tota l for 2024 -$42,000 w a s don a ted to kids from W estm a n in n eed. Itis our hop e tha tyour m edica l journ eys w ill be a touch ea sier beca use of everyon e w e justm en tion ed!

W e a re n ow divin g in to our 2025 even tp la n n in g a n d ca n ’tw a itfor you to see som e a m a zin g cha n ges in the w orks!

M uch love, T he L VJ Co m m itte e

So, I urge you to consider volunteering some of your time each month. Start small, every action is appreciated.

Whether it’s with a local organization, a community group, or any initiative in need, your efforts will be greatly appreciated and needed.

Don’t know where to start?

The first step is often as simple as checking your municipal website, which works as a helpful hub for finding local organizations eager for volunteers. Here are a few options to begin with: •Consider reaching out to your local health authority, as they often have a variety of roles that need your help.

•The local Lions Club is another excellent organization for community service projects, where your contributions can make a substantial impact.

•Visit local care homes, which frequently need volunteers to enhance the lives of their residents through com-

panionship and activities.

•Organizations like game and fish associations offer opportunities to get involved in conservation efforts, if that’s where your interests lie.

•Volunteering with emergency management teams can provide exciting and essential experiences that support community safety measures.

•Consider joining the local fire department, which makes a huge impact in the greater community’s immediate needs.

Remember, these are just starting points, and there are many more opportunities out there. It’s essential to contact the right people who can guide you, and the municipal website is a key resource in finding those contacts. In the end, even the smallest contributions make the biggest difference. If you have any extra time, consider taking the step to volunteer. You might just find a new passion in the process!

Horod Derby SUNDAY, FEB. 23 Registration 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Horod Hall Riders $20 • Silent Riders $5 • Fuel at Keesee Gas Bar - watch for signs • Smokies available on trail For more info call Dennis 204-625-5223, Shawn 204-365-0116, Greg 204-365-6359 or Darrell at 204-625-5319

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4

OPINION

Friday, February 21, 2025

Le tte rs to the e d ito r:

sm pnew s@ m ym ts.net

F orm er Sh oa l La ke resident sh a res funny notes As a columnist, it’s always grand to hear from subscribers, and receive a little help from friends… among them, Edith Edmundson, a former Shoal Lake resident now calling Langley, BC home. She shared a wealth of interesting information, which will be shared over the coming weeks and months. Thanks Edith, your presence is missed in the old hometown.

Here we go…

Heavenly C reatures One day a cat dies of natural causes and goes to heaven. There he meets the Lord Himself. The Lord says to the cat “you lived a good life and if there is any way I can make your stay in Heaven more comfortable, please let Me know.” The cat thinks for a moment and says, “Lord, all my life I have

Darrell

Nesbitt AR OUN D T OW N lived with a poor family and had to sleep on a hard wooden floor.” The Lord stops the cat and says, “say no more” and a wonderful fluffy pillow appears.

A few days later six mice are killed in a tragic farming accident and go to heaven.

Again the Lord is there to

greet them with the same offer. The mice answer, “All our lives we have been chased. We have had to run from cats, dogs and even women with brooms. We are tired of running. Do you think we could have roller skates so we don’t have to run anymore?” The Lord says, “say no more” and fits each mouse with a beautiful pair of roller skates.

About a week later the Lord stops by to see the cat and finds him snoozing on the pillow. The Lord gently wakes the cat and asks him, “How are things since you are here?” The cat stretches and yawns and replies, “It is wonderful here. Better than I could have ever expected.

And those Meals on Wheels you have been sending by are the best!”

W isdom ofProverbs Verily I say… “thou shalt prophet from the wisdom of these proverbs,” as shared once again by my faithful supporters, Dennis and Marlene Basso. The subject is “Getting Older” and may you get a chuckle or two, as on a positive note, you and I are now too old to have a midlife crisis.

When I was young, I was poor. But after years of hard, honest and painstaking work, I’m no longer young.

Note to self: Do not sit on the floor without a plan on how to get back up.

Welcome to the back porch… where wasting time is considered… time well wasted!

If you notice cows sleeping in a field, does that mean it’s pasture bedtime?

Procrastination is totally

a good thing. You always have something to do tomorrow, plus you have nothing to do today.

Middle age is just walking around all day muttering things like: “What was I going to say?” “Why did I come in here?” “Did I already take my pill?” “How did I get this bruise?” “Why am I sore?”

“Where did I leave my phone?”

If I dropped something when I was younger, I just picked it up. Now I’m older and I drop something, I stare at it for a while, contemplating if I actually need it anymore.

A S m ile for Today One day, I’m going to judge a spelling bee. I’ll ask one of the kids to spell the word “there”. When he asks for it in a sentence, I’ll say…

“Their car is parked over there and they’re late.”

Nine out of 10 times when I lose something… it’s because I put it in a safe place.

Why does the need to pee intensify by a million when you are trying to unlock the door to the house?

All of my childhood punishments have become my adult goals… eating vegetables, staying home, having a nap, and going to bed early.

Until next week… With high school students completing mid-term exams on Jan. 31, I share… A teacher asks a student, “Do you really think people can predict the future with cards?” He quickly replied, “My mother can. She takes one look at my report card and tells me what will happen to me when my father gets home.”

‘W hy would Iwant to axe the tax?’

Why would I want to axe the carbon tax? I can think of a few reasons to support the carbon fee and dividend commonly referred to as the “carbon tax”. Number one, why would I say no to money going into my bank account from the government? I have received three payments last year and another one in January. A family of four is estimated to make $100 a month in 2025, $250 a month in 2030 and $300 a month in 2035. Each year as the carbon

Letter fee goes up so does the payments into my bank account which is helpful to offset the cost of living for all of us.

I have heard the “carbon tax” being blamed for the rise in the cost of living however according to the Bank of Canada governor Tiff Macklem, Canada’s price on carbon only contributes .15% points to inflation. There are many other factors causing the increases

that we are experiencing to a much greater degree, for example, jumps in the global price of oil and crazy weather events like droughts, floods, and fires. This carbon tax is one of the most effective economic means of decreasing our carbon output which has been scientifically identified as one of the leading causes of climate change. The way I understand it, would not the price on carbon ultimately help us with the cost of living? As it is designed to de-

crease our carbon output decreasing the risks of more and more devastating weather events?

And what about our health and the health of the world? It is an important move toward living in a much cleaner and healthier environment. Not only does burning fossil fuels cause much of the carbon output that is heating the planet, it is also causing pollution that affects our health. The World Health Organization at COP 24 in Katowice, Poland

N ew governm ent h ires cost M a nitoba ta xp a yers $113 m illion every yea r The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is warning the Manitoba government that runaway bureaucratic growth is unsustainable for taxpayers.

The government of Manitoba has hired 1,965 new employees in its first year, costing taxpayers about $113 million annually, according to documents obtained by the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.

“Taxpayers can’t afford the government’s increasing bureaucrat bill,” said Gage Haubrich, CTF Prairie Director.

“Balancing the budget means making the government smaller, not spending more on its largest expense.”

The CTF says that the Manitoba government hired 1,965 new employees from October 2023 to the end of October 2024, at an annual cost of $113 million according to the

Op inion documents.

Premier Wab Kinew’s government was elected on Oct. 3, 2023.

The CTF also states that documents show that the number of Manitoba government employees earning more than $100,000 per year has increased by 83 percent since 2020, from 12,320 to 22,496 employees, and that the average government employee earns 8.5 percent more than those who work in the private sector. Manitoba government employees also retire 2.1 years earlier and are less likely to lose their job compared to average Manitobans.

Paying employees is the largest line item of the government’s budget.

Documents show that the

government spent $9.2 billion paying employees last year, making up 42 percent of total government spending, and is currently a projecting a $1.3 billion deficit this year. Interest charges on government debt will cost taxpayers $2.3 billion this year.

Finance Minister Adrien Sala maintains that the budget

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pollution. We don’t really have a choice between paying or not paying for our pollution. Our only choice is between paying less now, or leaving our kids and future generations to pay later. We pay for our pollution because we love our kids and grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

It’s a duty we owe them, and we betray their health and safety when we don’t.

Gaylene Wiebe Onanole, MB

Send us your

LET T ER T O T HE ED IT OR

will be balanced in 2027.

“It’s impossible to the balance the budget while adding hundreds of millions of dollars to the government wage bill every year,” Haubrich said.

“Instead of using taxpayers’ money to hire new employees, the government needs to focus on saving money, not spending it.”

Press

reported that exposure to air pollution causes seven million deaths world wide every year and costs an estimated 5.11 trillion U.S. dollars in welfare losses globally.

Lastly and most importantly! I want to be a good ancestor. Not one who makes a mess and then leaves my decedents the job of cleaning it up.

If you make a mess, shouldn’t you clean it up? Politicians make it harder to teach this family value when they say it’s okay not to pay for our

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South Mountain Press

Friday, February 21, 2025

5

RCM P investigating attem p ted m urd er On Feb. 15, Thompson RCMP received a report of a shooting at an apartment complex located on Ashberry Place in Thompson. Officers responded and located a 25year-old male who had been shot. He was transported to hospital in serious condition where he was later upgraded to stable. The investigation led to the Feb. 16 arrest of a 24-year-old man, who was charged with numerous offences including Attempted Murder, Aggravated Assault and Discharge Firearm with Intent. He was remanded into custody.

On Feb. 13, Ste. Rose du Lac RCMP received a report of a possible impaired driver in Ebb and Flow First Nation.

Officers immediately began patrols for the suspect vehicle, described as a pickup truck, and located it near the arena in the community being driven by a lone male. RCMP followed the vehicle to attempt a traffic stop, but the driver abandoned the vehicle at a residence on Lake Road NE and fled on foot heading into the bush. While running away from officers, the suspect removed some of his clothing and left it behind. Officers discovered the vehicle had been reported stolen from

RCMP Briefs Provincial Roundup Austin, and upon its search, officers located and seized a sawed-off shotgun. RCMP Police Dog Services, Manitoba First Nation Safety Officers from Ebb and Flow First Nation and the local fire department all arrived on scene to assist in the search, some on snowmobiles. A drone was also deployed by one of the Safety Officers. The suspect was located in the bush in very deep snow by officers on a snowmobile. While trying to apprehend him on foot, the suspect managed to escape on fled the scene on their snowmobile. An RCMP drone was deployed which led to the discovery of the suspect, still on snowmobile, a short distance away. When the suspect became stuck, he began walking towards the road. Officers were finally able to apprehend the suspect, who by this time,

was not wearing shoes and suffering from extreme frostbite. He was transported to hospital by EMS in serious condition. A 33-year-old male of Sandy Bay First Nation has been charged with numerous offences including Theft of a Motor Vehicle, Flight from Peace Officer, and Possession of Firearm. On Feb. 14, officers were advised that the suspect had left the hospital with the assistance of an unknown person. It is believed he fled earlier in the morning.

On Feb. 12, an officer with the Lynn Lake RCMP was awoken in his residence by intense banging noises from outside. The officer received a call from another officer that someone had tried to kick in his residence door. The officer scared off the suspects and when he went outside, discovered extensive damage to his police vehicle. Through their initial investigation officers were able to identify two suspects. Lynn Lake RCMP were able to arrest a 16-year-old male suspect but are still searching for another male suspect. The 16-year-old was charged with Mischief under $5,000 and Breaking and Entering with Intent and was released on conditions. Lynn

Lake RCMP continue to investigate.

On Feb. 12, Pembina Valley RCMP received a report of a two-vehicle collision involving a school bus and pickup truck, in the Rural Municipality of Lorne. Officers responded immediately along with Emergency Medical Responders and the local Fire department. A school bus was on its passenger side in the southeast ditch at the intersection of Road 28 North and Road 66 West, along with a pickup truck. All 14 children on the bus had already been evacuated. Officers determined that the pickup truck was travelling southbound on Road 66 West when it collided with the rear driver’s side of the school bus that was heading East on Road 28 North.

The 17-year-old male driver of the pickup truck sustained

minor injuries and was transported to hospital where he was treated and released. The children on the bus ranged in age from kindergarten to grade 11 and sustained minor injuries. All students were transported to hospital as a precaution with some of the victims transported to Winnipeg for further assessment.

Charges under the Highway Traffic Act are pending for the driver of the pickup truck.

Pembina Valley RCMP continue to investigate.

On Feb. 9, the remains of an individual were located in the rubble. As the cause of the fire appears suspicious, RCMP Major Crime Services are now investigating.

Monday to Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

On Feb. 7, Gypsumville RCMP responded to a report of a house fire at an address located off highway six in Pinaymootang First Nation.

RCMP attended the scene, along with the local fire department, and observed that the house was fully engulfed in flames and was subsequently destroyed by the fire.

(Closed for Lunch Hour)

Friday – CLOSED

South Mountain

Ph. 204 759 2644 Fax 204 759 2521 Email: smpnews@mymts.net Shoal Lake, MB

25023GM1

Municipality of Clanwilliam Erickson TIPPING FEES BY LAW Tipping Fees By law No.97 24 passed by Council on Feb. 12, 2025 Due to the changing rules surrounding solid waste in Manitoba, our municipal landfill has been closed and we are now operating a transfer station. Operational costs have increased as a result, and tipping fees have been updated to reflect this increase.

Beginning Feb. 24, 2025, fees will apply, including but not limited to: a) Construction and Demolition Waste. . . . . . .$240/tonne b) Excavation Material, Fill, Rocks..............$15/tonne c) Household and Outdoor Furniture..........$180/tonne d) Large Appliances..................................$10 each Loads must be separated at time of scaling. Mixed loads will result in the disposal fee for the most expensive material being applied to the entire load. Additional fees shall apply for cooling appliances requiring removal of freon/coolant.

The operator shall have the authority to refuse large loads where the hauler did not make prior arrangements.

Waste diversion options such as scrap metal, tire, and used oil recycling, composting, and burning yard waste will not be charged a fee. We encourage you to continue recycling household plastic and metal containers using the South Mountain Waste Facility in Erickson.

For more information, please email cao@ericksonmb.ca or call (204) 636 2431.

NEWS TIP? Em ail u s at sm pn ew s@ m ym ts.n et Call 204-759-2644

G reg NES B ITT M LA for R id ing M ountain

Press

204.759.3313 Toll Free 844.877.7767 gregnesbittmla@mymts.net #7 515 4th Avenue Burlington Place, Shoal Lake, MB

6

Friday, February 21, 2025

Road safety is a significant concern Lemcke emphasized that safety is a significant concern.

“Upgrading Hwy 45 will enhance safety by reducing the number of accidents,” Lemcke explained. “Our community deserves safer travel conditions.”

She noted that smoother roads would allow emergency services, like ambulances, to reach those in need faster.

Beyond improving local safety, there are economic stakes. According to highlights from the recent meeting, a more reliable route connecting their locations would support better trade, especially for haulers navigating road bans and spring months.

Lemcke described this upgrade as an economic catalyst.

The primary parties advocating for these upgrades include municipal leaders, councillors, and Alyssa Montsion, the liaison officer for the Western Region MTI. Montsion is tasked with coordinating efforts to bring these critical issues to higher authorities, including planning meetings with ministers or possibly organizing a cabinet meeting in Russell to provide firsthand experience of the cur-

from p age 1 rent road conditions.

Community engagement remains key, with plans to circulate a petition, and rally the local support need to see this endeavour come to fruition.

“We plan to engage with the community by sharing updates and encouraging everyone to be involved,” Lemcke said.

Looking ahead, the potential benefits are truly transformative.

Project timelines have not been detailed, but the next steps involve MTI’s Montsion to coordinate with higher authorities, with a tentative meeting in the immediate future.

“The collaboration and unity shown by the various municipalities and leaders during the meeting are commendable,” Lemcke said. “It is crucial to continue these collective efforts and partnerships to achieve the desired infrastructure improvements and support the community’s growth and well-being.”

South Mountain Press

Open House Drop in. Have a coffee and donut.

Learn about DUC incentives.

MELITA Legion Memorial Hall March 05 DELORAINE Community Hall March 10 VIRDEN New Horizons Centre March 11 STRATHCLAIR Community Centre March 11 OAK RIVER Memorial Hall March 12 BALDUR Argyle Drop-In Centre March 13

This year, DUC will provide nearly $12 million in financial incentives to farmers and ranchers in southwestern Manitoba.

We’ll pay you to: conserve wetlands + grasslands restore wetlands seed forage grow winter wheat improve marginal acres

11 am to 7 pm in each location.

Door prizes and grand prize draw.

Funding for restoration programs is made possible through a partnership with the Conservation Trust.

ARRIVE ALIVE! 25023GM5

ag.ducks.ca

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7

U15 Chiefs fall to last in d ivision The Yellowhead U15 Chiefs picked up one of a possible six points in their three games played in the Winnipeg AAA Hockey League over the long weekend.

The Chiefs currently sport a 3-22-2-2 record and fell to last place in the league’s West Division with their loss to Parkland on Friday, Feb. 14. The Rangers and Chiefs are tied with 10 points apiece.

T H R ASH E R S W H IT E 4 CH IE F S 2 Camden Lesuk scored a pair of goals to lead the Winnipeg Thrashers White to a 42 win in Shoal Lake on Monday, Feb. 17.

Braxton Taylor and Reid Toporoski also scored for the Thrashers, who led 1-0 and 21 at the intermissions.

Malcolm McArthur and Lane McDonald each had a goal for Yellowhead.

Aaron Cormier made 19 saves between the pipes for the Thrashers White while

U18 Ben Anderson made 31 saves for Yellowhead.

CH IE F S 2 IN T E R L AK E 2 (O T ) Overtime solved nothing as the Yellowhead Chiefs and Interlake Lightning battled to a 2-2 tie on Saturday, Feb. 15 in Shoal Lake.

Interlake took the lead through the first after a goal

by Ty Kopys, before Yellowhead tied things on a second period goal by Jordan Gambler. The teams traded third period goals – Carter Brown for the Chiefs and Kane Manningway for the Lightning – forcing overtime.

Ben Anderson made 40 saves for the Chiefs while Connor Lemieux had 48 stops for the Lightning.

PAR K L AN D 4 CH IE F S 3

The Parkland Rangers got goals from four different players as they moved past the Chiefs in the standings and snapped their 12-game losing skid with a 4-3 win on Friday, Feb. 14 in Shoal Lake.

Parks Gardner, Madden Atkinson, Cole O’Connor, and Tucker Derkach scored for the visitors, who led 3-2 through two periods after the teams went scoreless in the first.

Carter White, Brody Lane, and Carter Brown replied for the Chiefs.

Benjamin Gardner stopped 39 shots in the Parkland net while Noah Wohlgemuth made 22 saves for Yellowhead.

NOTES: The Chiefs will hit the road for a pair of games in Winnipeg this weekend, taking on the Wild Green on Friday, Feb. 21 before meeting the Thrashers Blue the following day – Saturday, Feb. 22.

Forward Parker M cArthur ofBirtle takes aim at the Parkland net during action in S hoalLake on Friday,Feb.14 PHOTO BY D ARRELL N ESBITT/ SOUTH M OUN TAIN PRESS

U15 fem a les w ill finish th ird in lea gue sta ndings The Yellowhead Chiefs will finish third in the regular season standings of the Manitoba U15 Female AAA Hockey League.

The Chiefs have just one game remaining and are three points back of Pembina Valley and Eastman, who are tied for first place. Yellowhead is four points ahead of

Y U15 C fourth place Westman.

PE M BIN A VAL L E Y 5 CH IE F S 4 The Hawks scored four consecutive third period goals to erase a 4-1 deficit as

they edged the Chiefs 5-4 in Carman on Sunday, Feb. 16.

Sinead Connery opened the scoring in the first period for the hosts, but that was all the league leaders could muster until the third when Gillian Rose, Madilynn Frey, Mia Brass and Claire Boyd scored in just over four minutes.

Haley Chipelski with a pair, Hayla Matheson and Chloe Facey replied for the Chiefs, who held period leads of 2-1 and 3-1.

Charlie Fust made 22 saves to earn the win in goal.

Pyper Rapley blocked 29 shots in the Yellowhead net.

PE M BIN A VAL L E Y 5 CH IE F S 3

The Hawks outscored the Chiefs 3-1 in the second period for a 5-3 victory in Carman on Saturday, Feb. 15.

The teams were tied 2-2 after the first period before the Hawks went to work.

Payton Manness, Allie Luck, Ariel Rondeau, Bree Pearce and Claire Boyd scored for the hosts.

Haley Chipelski, Chloe Facey and Averi Jury were the Yellowhead goal scorers.

Hannah Bannister made 19 saves to earn the netminding win for Pembina Valley.

NOTES – The Chiefs will close out the regular season in Brandon when they take on the Wheat Kings on Saturday, Feb. 22.

Ligh tning edge Ch iefs in offense-h ea vy a ffa ir The Interlake Lightning edged the Yellowhead Chiefs 7-6 in a wide-open, highscoring Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League game in Teulon on Saturday, Feb. 15.

Blake Farthing scored three times for the hosts, who held a 6-4 lead after 40 minutes. The teams were tied 2-2 after the first period.

U18 Drew Russell, Talon Hogg, Mason Bernier and Lucas Spencer each added a goal for the Lightning.

Cooper McColl, Ethan Bray, Alec Strachan, Grady

McNish, Nolan Kozak and Colby Asselstine all potted singles for the Chiefs.

Seth Schaeffer, who was replaced by Dylan McFadyen after the fifth Yellowhead goal, combined to make 38 saves for Interlake.

Cole Lelond blocked 37 shots for the Chiefs.

NOTES – The Chiefs will

U 18 fe m a le s w ill ta ke o n Bra n do n in firs t ro u n d p la yo ff m a tchu p The playoffs are set in the Manitoba U18 Female AAA Hockey League.

The Yellowhead Chiefs were slated to host the Brandon Wheat Kings in game one of their best of five quarter final series on Thursday, Feb. 20.

Game two was set for

Y U18 C

Brandon on Saturday, Feb. 22, with game three back in Shoal Lake on Tuesday, Feb. 25.

Games four and five, if necessary, will be played in Brandon on Thursday, Feb. 27, and in Shoal Lake on Saturday, March 1.

The Chiefs finished in fourth place in the regular season with a record of 17-141, while the Wheat Kings were fifth with a record of 15-15-2.

close out their season this weekend as they play host to three games in Shoal Lake.

The Central Plains Capitals visit on Friday, Feb. 21, followed by a pair of games

against the Interlake Lightning on Saturday, Feb. 22 and Sunday, Feb. 23.

FRIDAY , FEB. 21 7 :00 P.M . vs .CAL GAR Y

W EDNESDAY , FEB. 26 7 :00 P.M . vs .E DM O N T O N

FRIDAY , FEB. 28

7 :00 P.M . vs .L E T H BR IDGE

8

South Mountain Press

Friday, February 21, 2025

Elkh orn sta nding p roudly beh ind T ra vis Sa nh eim Paper Clips News from MB/SK weeklies cost of $10 million.

Whitewood: Grasslands News – For the second year, students at James Hamblin School in Qu’Appelle are helping to raise fish to stock Saskatchewan water bodies. Partnering with Indian Head & District Wildlife Federation for the Fish in Schools program, students experience the trout life cycle and learn about aquatic habitats.

Kamsack: The Times – After 60 years, Kam-Crete Ltd., one of the most significant businesses in Kamsack, is now in the process of closing its doors in the community. The ready-mix concrete business was started by Cas and Marie Broda, and eventually became a part of the Broda Group Limited Partnership. The company is confident a new business will rise up to serve Kamsack and area.

Treherne: The Times – The Foyer Notre Dame is home to a number of centenarians who are 100-plus years young.

Among them are Elnore Neufeld, Therese Wanlin, Vina Swain, Therese Vielfaure, Clarice Wytinck, Julie Foidart and Verna Pattle.

Baldur/Glenboro: The Gazette – The Cypress River Curling Club, which would have marked its 130th anniversary this year, has officially disbanded. Inactive for the past four years, the community’s multi-purpose centre committee has organized and hosted local bonspiels.

Roblin: The Review – Members of the Roblin Agricultural Society learned all the hard work in promoting and hosting the fair and rodeo in 2024 was worth it, turning a profit of slightly under $5,000. Many of the evens staged were successful, however, the talent show won’t be back in 2025.

Neepawa: The Banner & Press – Kinley Thomson Chartered Professional Accountants Inc. was named Business of the Year by the Neepawa Chamber of Commerce. Since 1998, the Neepawa and Gladstone based accounting firm has been a part of the region.

Baldur/Glenboro: The Gazette – Neighbourhood Watch programs aren’t promoted in every community, but Baldur’s Crime Watch is paying dividends. In the early morning hours of Feb. 3, a patrol noticed a suspicious person in the business section and notified the RCMP, who apprehended the person. Having an active and vibrant Neighbourhood Watch program is a big plus in a small town setting.

BLENDING IN

DAR R E L L N E SBIT T / SO U T H M O U N T AIN PR E SS

Dressed in a gray suit with a bow tie across its neck, the Great Gray Owl is a dapper creature, which showcases its appearance from time to time while blending into a tree line, as seen along Highway 10 south of Erickson recently. Great Gray Owls hunt both at night and during the day from perches where they listen intently for small mammals moving under the snow. Once they detect one, they hover above the snow and plunge talons first into the snow to grab it.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – Elkhorn’s Travis Sanheim, who has played with the Philadelphia Flyers throughout his NHL career, will be part of Team Canada for the Four Nations tournament. Since being drafted in 2014, the entire close-knit community has been proud of Travis, the son of Kent and Shelley Sanheim. In support of their NHL and Team Canada hero, the town will be enhanced with posters, jerseys, and window paint, plus other unique and fun ways.

Neepawa: The Banner & Press – A room at the inn in terms of the Best Western Plus in Neepawa is slated to be available on May 7. In the near future, hiring of staff will begin through a job fair being presented by General Manager, Trish Hall. To serve the hotel and guests, it’s expected between 12 and 14 staff positions will be created.

Killarney: The Guide – Hearts and lungs, and tongues and tracheas were laid out on trays – all part of a special two-day rural event arranged for medical students at the TriLake Health Centre in Killarney. Around 30 University of Manitoba medical students took part and examined a day in the life of a rural doctor, as part of the Rural Interest Group event held in conjunction with Prairie Mountain Health.

Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – Work on resurfacing Highway 8 between Moosomin and Rocanville has been initiated with culvert installations by boring method. Resurfacing will see 24 kilometers of asphalt concrete laid between the two communities.

Moosomin-Montmarte MLA Kevin Weedmark said he is happy to see the project move forward, as the highway is very busy with 1, 900 vehicles per day travelling on it.

Dauphin: The Herald – Nic Bray who has Dauphin roots saw his composition “Spruce” performed by the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO) at this year’s Winnipeg New Music Festival. Bray recently won the 2025 Emerging Composers Competition presented by the Prairie Chapter of the Canadian Music Centre, thus the WSO showcasing his composition.

Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – It was a record breaking year for construction in Moosomin, with construction in the town and next to the town in the R.M. of Moosomin in 2024 totalling $24,086,781. Slightly over $16 million was within the town itself, which included Borderland Co-op’s new 30,000 square foot food store being built at a

A1

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South Mountain Press

The challenge is to fill every row across, every column down, and every 3x3 box with the digits 1 through 9. Each 1 through 9 digit must appear only once in each row across, each column down, and each 3x3 box.

SUDOKU CHALLENGE 7

3 3 2 1 5 4 7 1 3 7 8 9 6 4 5 7 3 6 1 8 2 8 7 6 5 6 4

C auliflower M uraskiFioretta 70 F1 culinary a visualdelight

All Am e rica Se le ctio n s fo r 2025 – p a rt II

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Puzzle answers can be found in this week’s classified ad section Patricia

Hanbidge GAR D EN IN G producing a prolific number of canary yellow, uniformly shaped peppers.

Squash Green Lightning F1 is early, fast and is pretty enough to use as a decoration! When cooked, it has a nice robust flavour and the rind is medium and light green. Another favourite for the garden. Another squash made the list as well. Squash Thriller F1 brings psychedelic colour patterns, which matures in 75 to 80 days from planting. The semi-bush plants of the 1 to 2-pound dumpling squash with shallow vertical ridges that alternate between a variegated cream and green with a bit of bright orange built in.

The last veggie winner is Tomato Tonatico F1. This high-yield cherry tomato is delicious, has great texture, less fruit splitting and great disease resistance.

In the trials, judges were very pleased with the superior sepals and pedicels, the taste and texture, and the uniform fruit clusters that held on long, easy-to-harvest trusses. Venture out and try something new when it comes to cherry tomatoes! It is indeterminate, but the fruit forms on long, easy to harvest trusses.

I hope you have enjoyed learning about the AAS Winners of 2025. If you are interested in other winners from the previous years just have a look at https://allamericaselections.org/. AAS was founded in 1932 and the first winners were shared with the world in 1933.

Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture.

Find us at www.orchidhort.com; by email at info@orchidhort.com; or on facebook @orchidhort.

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All America Selections (AAS) is a non-profit trialing organization that tests new, never-before-sold varieties of plants for the home gardener. Last week we covered some of the All America Selections 2025 ornamental winners and now we move onto my favourites – the edible plants that also add beauty to your garden.

Snapdragon DoubleShot™ Yellow Red Heart F1 is the prettiest snapdragon ever!

You may remember her sister Orange Bicolor from 2023.

Both snaps bloom early and hold up extremely well through the hottest summer heat. This beautiful double, intermediate height snap is perfect for the garden or as a cut flower. Yellow Red Heart also has a lovely candy-like scent.

Two zinnias made the list this year. Zinnia Crestar mix is the best of crested zinnias known for their distinctive semi-double blooms with a pronounced central disc. Colours of pink, orange, red, white peach and yellow in a stunning display for your garden or as cuts. The Zydeco Zinnia™ Fire has fiery orange fully double long-lasting blooms on disease resistant foliage.

For those that are kohlrabi fans Konstance F1 gives a longer harvest window and is a beautiful purple colour with smooth skin. The bulbs are crack resistant and the leaves are highly flavourful roasted or sautéed when they are young and tender.

Cauliflower Murasaki Fioretto 70 F1 is a culinary and visual delight. With vibrant purple florets and long, tender stems with a sweet, mild flavour that are easy to harvest. This is one to grow and enjoy. It has a compact habit, early maturity and excellent field holding capacity.

Basil Piedmont brings the flavours of Italy home to your garden. It has exceptional Downy Mildew Resistance meaning weeks of extra harvest and forms a dense, bushy plant. This might become my favourite basil to grow!

Pepper Pick-N-Pop Yellow F1 grows cute, snack-sized mini peppers that are extra sweet. The plant is moderate sized with outstanding bacterial leaf spot resistance while

9

Friday, February 21, 2025

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South Mountain Press

Friday, February 21, 2025

Increasing the p ace of your routine Dr.

Roizen H EALT H Y LIVIN G pace (whatever that means for you) with 30 to 60 seconds of a brisk pace (again, you determine that) -- repeated five to 10 times. Don’t push it, just let it increase steadily.

And for more help, check out our audio book “YOU: On a Walk.” It makes a great companion as you work to pick up your pace.

Q: Can you update me on the latest information on how to live younger longer? – Steph Y., Lexington, KY A: There’s so much exciting research going on that reveals how we can slow down aging and live longer and healthier. Three innovative approaches appear to be especially effective: Therapeutic plasma exchange, cell rejuvenation using exosomal mRNA and extending the length of telomeres.

Therapeutic Plasma Exchange removes and replaces your body’s plasma in order to purge malformed, damaged proteins that can lead to cell mutations (cancer), disrupted metabolism and damaged immune responses. One large and one smaller human study, plus many animal studies, have found plasma

exchange even improves memory, language, processing speed and quality of life in Alzheimer’s patients.

Exosomal mRNA is responsible for managing cellto-cell communication and that can help rejuvenate cells that are worn out and malfunctioning (as happens with age). By extracting it from body fluids, it appears possible to harness the power of these molecular messengers to effectively reboot internal systems and improve skin quality. One study found that mRNA extends lifespan and

improves physical ability and cognition in mice.

Extending Telomere Length helps repair aging and damaged cells and stimulates the production of stem cells. Telomeres are the protective caps at the ends of your chromosomes and the shorten over time, limiting the body’s ability to regenerate cells needed to replace damaged ones. The great news is that you can protect telomere length by eating a diet high in fiber, soy protein, vitamins, micronutrients and healthy fats from ol-

ives, avocados, salmon, anchovies, seeds and nuts. Plus: There are drugs in development that extend life by elongating stem cell telomeres in animals.

Combine these three techniques and you may have a younger actual age for much longer!

Other ways to engineer your own rejuvenation include taking bovine colostrum, getting plenty of foodsupplied vitamin C and taking in curcumin through turmeric or supplements. It helps delay the demise of

cells and combats cellular damage. Also use a zinc oxide sunscreen with SPF of 35.

Dr. Mike Roizen is the founder of longevityplay book.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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Q: I know I should amp up the intensity of my daily walk but it’s hard to do. How can I increase the intensity of my routine? – Sally T., Savannah, GA A: In order to make your daily walk a more effective way to improve heart health, dispel stress, reduce inflammation and manage glucose levels, you want to adopt some simple techniques that allow you to build your endurance and increase your pace. And you want to avoid a common mis-step: taking longer strides. That actually slows you down! So, here’s how to speed up your stride.

Check your posture. You want to stand tall, shoulders back and core engaged. (Pull your belly button in toward your spine.) At first, practice walking slowly with this improved posture. Get the hang of it so it becomes automatic – this may take you a week or so.

Standing tall, take shorter, quicker steps. Harvard Medical School says to put your front leg almost right under you as you fall into your next step. You will have a smoother, rolling stride and a faster pace.

Push off the ground with the ball of your foot, raising your heel. Then land on your heel and roll through to step forward on the ball of your foot. Feel how that propels you forward faster.

Bend your arms, like you would do when running, at an 85 to 90-degree angle and swing your arms forward and backward.

As your technique improves, you’ll be able to do intermittent walking that combines four or five minutes of walking at a moderate

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Classified Advertising Rates Minimum 25 words $7.00, additional words 25¢ (plus GST)

Place your Classified Advertisement by Phone, Fax, Mail or E-mail Extra weeks are one-half original cost • Not responsible for errors in handwritten submissions Ph: 204-759-2644 Ext. 1 Fax: 204-759-2521 E-mail: smpclassified@mymts.net Special rate for Obituaries, Cards of Thanks, In Memoriams Mail: Nesbitt Publishing Ltd., Box 160, Shoal Lake, MB, R0J 1Z0

Reach the entire Province: $189.00 (49 weekly papers) Westman or Eastman regions: $119.00

CO M IN G E VE N T S Erickson Lutheran Women invite you to a Pancake Supper on Shrove Tuesday, March 4, 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the Erickson Lutheran Church. Adults $10, 6-10 years $5, Under 5 free. All are welcome.

It’s hard to believe but not everyone has Facebook. This ad you’re reading costs $13.50 and reaches over 5 communities and 3,000 readers every week. And next week it will be half price. Planning an event? If you tell them they WILL come. Call Michelle at 204759-2644 ext. 1.

W AN T E D 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.

N O T ICE S 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 Does Facebook support local?

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.

Invest in advertising. The cost of advertising is small when you think of the number of people who will potentially attend your event sim-

ply 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.

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

Urgent Press Releases. Have a newsworthy item to announce? An exciting change in operations?

Though we cannot guarantee publication, MCNA will get the information into the right hands for only $35 plus GST. Call Manitoba Community Newspapers Association

Minimum 25 words $7.00, additional words 20¢ (plus GST) • It is preferred if Obituaries can be emailed.

Any obituary copy that is typeset by our staff will be subject to proof approval prior to publication.

No discount for municipal or government ads • Ads not pre-paid by Thursday Noon are subject to a $2.50 billing charge

204-947-1691 for more information, See www.mcna.com under the ‘Types of Advertising’ tab for more details.

per 204-759-2644 to book now or call MCNA at 204-947-1691 for more details or to book ads. MCNA - Manitoba Community Newspapers Association. www.mcna.com

AR T ICL E S F O R SAL E

Did You Know? We print Personal and Business Cheques! 100 Personal Cheques $99 + taxes, 100 (manual) Business Cheques $91 + taxes, 250 (laser) Business Cheques $210 + taxes. Call Connie

Need Class 1 drivers? Seasonal hiring? Selling something? Jump on our great prices and start getting responses. Have your blanket classified ads seen in the 31Member Newspapers which are seen in over 368,000+ homes in Manitoba. Please call this newspa-

at 204-759-2644 Ext. 2 or email ctwprinting@mymts.net.

Nesbitt Publishing, Shoal Lake.

Online McSherry Auctions

5-W Sim m entals has a good selection of

PU R EB R ED Y EA R LIN G B U LLS

Estate & Moving Feb 26th @ 7:00PM Estate & Moving March 8th @ 7:00PM McSherryAuction.com 204-467-1858 or 204-886-7027 mcsherryltd@gmail.com

Blacks, reds, some baldys, polled.

BW from 80 lbs to 101 lbs Some are good for heifers, all with papers.

All bulls will be semen tested and are guaranteed.

Will deliver to yard or hold with deposit till you need them.

Priced from $3,000 and up.

Call or Text

1-204-868-5040

CLASSIFIEDS WORK! Ca ll 204-7 59-2644 E xt.1 E m a il s m p dis p la y@ m ym ts .n e t

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South Mountain Press

Friday, February 21, 2025

M anitob a governm ent m akes im p rovem ents to chronic wasting d isease surveillance p rogram Manitoba Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures is highlighting the success of the 2024-25 chronic wasting disease (CWD) surveillance program, in order to stress the importance of increased participation in the program for the upcoming 2025-26 season.

This past year saw success in the program’s efforts to streamline processes, reduce staffing requirements and cut testing times significantly, while expanding li-

censed hunting opportunities. The average turnaround time for test results was 22 days this year, compared to 37 days in 2023-24 and 77 days in 2022-23.

The province has also expanded licensed hunting opportunities for 2024-25 including mandatory testing for licensed deer hunters in target areas. A second white-tailed deer hunting season opportunity was expanded to game hunting areas (GHA) 5, 6, 6A, 7, 8,

10, 11, 15, 15A, 17B, 25B, 23. GHA 23A was also added for CWD sampling this past year.

With the conclusion of the 202425 hunting season, the program has processed approximately 3,100 samples.

CWD is an incurable, fatal disease that affects members of the deer family (cervids) including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, moose, and caribou. Animals infected with CWD may appear

healthy until the later stages of the disease.

If CWD spreads and becomes endemic to Manitoba, there is a serious risk that CWD will threaten the health of all cervid populations in the province.

First detected in the province in 2021, a total of 30 positive cases of CWD have been detected to date. This includes four positive cases identified during the 2024-25 hunting season. Cases were identi-

fied from mandatory biological sampling submissions of animals as well as animals harvested by department staff as part of ongoing CWD management efforts to reduce the spread.

Hunter-directed sampling is key to engaging the hunting public and integral to increasing the speed of the program. The province thanks everyone for participating in efforts to manage CWD.

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