South Mountain P re s s
PLANT PEOPLE
Members of the Erickson Collegiate Institute’s Horticultural Class proudly took time out from a busy few hours of sales at their annual plant sale on Friday, June 5 to showcase an array of colourful blooms cascading from hanging baskets. Flowers were extremely popular once again this year, as plants sold quickly, knocking down two rows of tables to one within a half hour time period.
Local trail organizations receive grant funding
Clear Lake Country Destination Marketing and Rossburn Subdivision Trail Association among those to r eceive funds
Two local trail organizations are among 19 recipients of provincial trail grant funding announced recently by the Manitoba government and Trails Manitoba.
Clear Lake Country Destination Marketing Inc. in Wasagaming and the Rossburn Subdivision Trail As-
sociation each received $15,000 through the 2026 Trails Manitoba Grant Program. The Rossburn funding will go toward general trail maintenance.
In total, more than $200,000 was distributed across the province, with the 19 projects receiving a combined $200,238.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes
made the announcement, highlighting the importance of trail infrastructure for Manitoba families.
“Trails are spaces where families can enjoy and experience the incredible landscapes and wildlife that make Manitoba so unique,” Moyes said. “Our government understands that trails are an affordable way for families to connect with nature and are essential for
the health and well-being of Manitobans. We are proud to partner with Trails Manitoba to invest in the maintenance and enhancement of trails across the province.”
Manning agreed, stating that trails are critical infrastructure, providing all Manitobans with pathways to health and well-being, reconciliation, economic development, tourism, and environmental
stewardship.
“We are honoured to partner with the Manitoba government, municipal and Indigenous governments, and trail organizations in delivering trail projects across our gorgeous province,” she said.
The funding announcement coincided with Manitoba Trails Day on June 6.
DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
South Mountain Press
Government announces free provincial park entry, free fishing
From June 12 through the 14th, Manitobans can visit provincial parks for free and fish without a licence, Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes and Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures Minister Ian Bushie announced.
“Making life more affordable for families is a priority for our government, and free park entry and licencefree fishing are simple ways we can help Manitobans enjoy time together without added costs,” said Moyes. “We want every family to be able to experience the beauty and adventure our parks offer.” Vehicle permits are not required to visit provincial parks the weekend of June 1214, but regular camping fees will still apply at provincial campgrounds.
“Manitoba’s world-class provincial parks offer unique opportunities to experience stunning nature, uncover stories of the land and deepen your understanding of our province’s natural and cultural history,” said Moyes. “Come embark on a journey of discovery this weekend.”
Park interpreters lead guided hikes, living history demonstrations, kayak outings, historic site tours, special events, campfire talks and more at select parks throughout the summer. As part of Family Fishing Weekend, visitors can also experience the Whiteshell Fish Hatchery on Saturday, June 13, where Manitoba Parks and Manitoba Fisheries are offering free tours. Operating since 1942, the hatchery sup-
ports recreational angling across Manitoba by raising and stocking a variety of fish species. Visitors will discover how fish are raised and stocked across the province, see over half a million trout in action and take part in releasing 250 trout into the Whiteshell River.
For information on visiting the Whiteshell Fish Hatchery and interpretive programming in provincial parks, visit manitobaparks.com.
Visitors are encouraged to check the Manitoba Parks website for the latest provincial park conditions as there may be temporary closures or advisories. Campers should also check for the latest fire restrictions and only make fires in approved pits, the minister noted.
Anglers can fish without a licence provincewide June 1214, except for national parks where a federal licence is still required.
“Recreational fishing is a wonderful way for families and friends to come together and enjoy our great outdoors,” said Bushie. “I invite everyone to enjoy the many benefits that a day of
fishing in Manitoba has to offer.”
All other angling regulations, including possession limits and size restrictions, still apply. For more information, refer to the2026 Manitoba Anglers’ Guide,available athttps://www.manitoba.ca/ nrnd/fish-wildlife/pubs/ fish_wildlife/fish/anglingguide.pdf.
Manitobans are reminded to remain vigilant and do their part to protect the province’s water bodies from aquatic invasive species (AIS). To prevent the spread of AIS, all water users leaving a Manitoba AIS Control Zone must decontaminate and are required to clean, drain and dry watercraft and waterrelated equipment when removing them from a waterbody.
For more information on how to stop the spread of AIS, visitwww.manitoba.ca/stopais/spread/index.html.
Manitoba Wildfire Services reminds everyone to enjoy this weekend with fire prevention in mind. To do your part, remember to: Keep all campfires in approved pits such as those
found in campsites and check with the campground office for any campfire restrictions.
Never leave a campfire unattended and always fully extinguish fires by drowning ashes and embers with water before leaving. This includes safely disposing of ashes from wood stoves and charcoal briquettes.
Do not burn if it is windy, as wind can blow embers and ash.
If operating an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), use only designated trails in provincial parks and regularly check for debris in areas around the engine and exhaust system, disposing of any materials safely.
Prevent sparks by checking and maintaining all equipment, including vehicle tires, trailers and off-road vehicles, and any other equipment traveling along roadways. Also check safety chains on trailers and make sure they are well off the ground before driving.
Be prepared to safely extinguish small fires by carrying a fire extinguisher, axe and shovel when travelling in the backcountry.
SEVERE STORMS STRIKE REGION
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
South Mountain Press
It’s been a rough start to storm season across western Manitoba.
On June 6, Environment Canada issued an orangelevel tornado watch that stretched across a wide portion of the region, including the municipalities of Clanwilliam-Erickson, ElliceArchie, Hamiota, Harrison Park including Onanole and Sandy Lake, Minnedosa, Prairie View, Riding Mountain West, Riverdale, Rossburn, Russell-Binscarth, Yellowhead, and several others across southwestern Manitoba.
Things escalated through the afternoon. Shortly after 3:00 p.m., Red Level severe thunderstorm warnings were issued for the Virden and Hamiota areas as storms moved eastward. A tornado warning followed as the system pushed through. Minnedosa also received a yellow level severe thunderstorm warning as the storms tracked northeast through the evening.
Hail was a significant problem. North of Miniota, resident Chris Allison was out in his tractor when the storm hit, something he had not anticipated when he left for town earlier that afternoon.
“I had run to Miniota for some diesel fuel just before and was watching that storm as I drove home,” Allison said. “I really thought it was going to pass over my place which is why I was back in the tractor.”
The hailstones Allison photographed dwarfed a toonie, and the damage they left behind was visible the next day.
“There are dents on the roof, hood and sides of my truck as well as the tin roof of my house,” he said. “As far as damage goes, it definitely could have been a lot worse.” Allison added that he
doesn’t actively farm, “but I feel there’s probably lots of crop damage.”
Lightning was near constant throughout Saturday evening and into Sunday, knocking out power across a wide area. Manitoba Hydro crews worked through the night to restore service to affected communities.
“In the areas of Kenton, Sioux Valley, Oak Lake, Hamiota and Virden, our crews worked as quickly as possible to safely restore power, but some areas did remain out overnight,” Manitoba Hydro posted regarding the June 6 storm. “This area was hit hard by a storm.”
As the evening progressed, storms continued tracking northeast. At 8:57 p.m., Manitoba Storm Watch reported a storm near Foxwarren moving in that direc-
tion, with radar estimating wind gusts exceeding 110 km/h. The storm’s path put communities including Binscarth and Rossburn in its track.
The June 6 event was not the first significant weather of that week. On June 3, multiple residents in the ru-
ral Foxwarren area reported what appeared to be a funnel cloud that briefly touched down before lifting back up. The sighting was reported by numerous people in the area but was not officially confirmed by Environment Canada. A funnel cloud was also reported near Waywaysee-
cappo the same day. That same day, officials confirmed at least three tornadoes touched down in southern Manitoba, along with large hail, heavy rain, and strong winds.
Tornado watches, warnings, and lightning were again in the forecast for
June 7 and throughout the week, pointing to a prolonged stretch of active weather across the region with no sign of letting up in the short term.
None of this is unusual for the time of year. Tornado season in Manitoba runs from April to September, with June and July historically the busiest months. The province averages eight to 14 tornadoes per season and is considered one of the most tornado-prone in the country.
Residents are reminded that a tornado watch means conditions favour tornado development, have a plan ready. A tornado warning means a tornado has been confirmed or indicated on radar, take cover immediately. Environment Canada recommends moving to the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows and outside walls. Those in vehicles or mobile homes should get to a solid structure right away. Environment Canada alerts are available at weather.gc.ca or through the WeatherCAN app. Manitoba Hydro outage updates can be found athydro.mb.ca.
Friday, June 12, 2026
Sarcastic Zen phrases you need in life
Zen phrases have been around for a long time, but most of the time it has been associated with life lessons, enlightenment, and wisdom. Wisdom can be fun too! The following 20 sarcastic Zen phrases as found on The Mind Journal website illustrate that perfectly. Check them out…
1). Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either. Just pretty much leave me alone.
2). The journey of a thousand kilometers begins with a broken fan beltor a leaky tire.
3). It’s always darkest before dawn, so if you’re going to steal your neighbour’s local newspaper, that’s the time to do it.
4). Don’t be irreplaceable. If you can’t be replaced, you can’t be promoted.
Darrell Nesbitt
AROUND TOWN
5). Always remember that you’re unique. Just like everyone else.
6). Never test the depth of the water with both feet.
7). If you think nobody cares if you’re alive, try missing a couple of car payments.
8). Before you criticize someone, you should walk a kilometer in their shoes. That way, when you criticize
them, you’re a kilometer away and you have their shoes.
9). If at first you don’t succeed... skydiving is not for you.
10). Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat all day.
11). If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.
12). Some days you’re the bug – some days you’re the windshield.
13). Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.
14). The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket.
15). A closed mouth gathers no foot.
16). Duct tape is like ‘The Force’. It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together.
17). There are two theories to arguing with a woman –neither one works.
18). Generally speaking, you aren’t learning much when your lips are moving.
19). Experience is something you don’t get until just after you need it.
20). Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.
Some Not so Deep Thoughts
Whatever life throws at you… duck and let it hit someone else!
I don’t rise with the sun… I rise with the call of the bladder!
They say with age comes wisdom so therefore I don’t have wrinkles, I have wise cracks.
Find friends who are as crazy as you, and you’ll never need therapy.
Cleaning is just putting
stuff in less obvious places and then wondering where you put them.
Aging may have slowed me down but it hasn’t kept me quiet.
Have you ever listened to someone for a while and wondered, who ties your shoelaces for you.
Old age used to be all in my head, now it’s in my joints too.
It’s okay to not be okay, some days are just harder than others.
Sometimes I get road rage, walking behind people in the grocery store.
I usually don’t talk about expensive trips I take, but I just got back from the grocery store.
I’m at the age where the next day my body whispers to me don’t do that again.
It’s not gray hair that reveals my age. It’s my use of complete sentences and punc-
tuation when I text.
Fishing Quotes
“Fishing is the chance to wash one’s soul with pure air. It brings meekness and inspiration, reduces our egoism, soothes our troubles, and shames our wickedness. It is a discipline in the equality of men–for all men are equal before fish.” – Herbert Hoover
“If you ever wondered why fishing is probably the most popular sport in this country, watch that boy beside on the water and you will learn. If you are really perceptive you will. For he already knows that fishing is only one part fish.” – Hal Borland
And until next week… “In fishing, as in life, opportunity is often a matter of being in the right place at the right time.” – Larry Koller
It is time to scrap the Netflix tax completely
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) is calling on the federal government to stop the streaming tax hike entirely after it announced a review of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission’s decision to triple it.
“We don’t need another CRTC review, we need the
Opinion
government to scrap the Netflix tax entirely,” said Kris Sims, CTF Alberta Director.
“Taxpayers are exhausted from paying sky-high income taxes, carbon taxes, payroll taxes, business taxes and sales taxes.
“The last thing they need when they try to escape and watch something is another tax to pay.”
Canadian Heritage Minister Marc Miller announced the federal government is telling the CRTC to “review” its decision to increase the streaming tax from five to 15 percent of revenues for com-
panies with Canadian broadcasting revenue above $25 million.
“The CRTC’s new requirements would impose new costs on the companies providing these services, which could ultimately fall on Canadian consumers through higher prices,” the government news release reads.
The government said it would also start pouring more taxpayers’ money into Canadian media production in the future, after consultations with industry and Canadians.
“Taxpayers are already forced to pay more than $1.4 billion for the CBC and more than $2.2 billion for the heritage department, they cannot afford this streaming tax hike,” said Sims. “Miller should do the right thing and scrap the hike on streaming services, because at the end of the day, it’s the normal working person who’s getting screwed with these hiked fees and taxes.”
Finance Minister receives D- on CTF report card
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) released its annual Finance Minister Report Card that ranks provincial finance ministers on spending, debt and tax relief in the latest provincial budgets.
Manitoba Finance Minister Adrien Sala received an overall grade of D-, tied for second lowest in the country. Sala received an overall grade of F last year.
“It’s the opposite of fiscally responsible to spend more per person than any other government in Western Canada,” said Gage Haubrich, CTF Prairie Director.
“Sala needs to rein in spending so Manitobans aren’t forced to fork over more than $6.5 million a day in debt interest payments.”
The following key grades influenced Sala’s overall
ranking:
Debt interest payments: D-
Debt interest payments will cost taxpayers $2.4 billion this year, working out to $1,576 per person, the second highest in the country.
Spending per person: D
The government is spending about $18,073 per person. That’s the fourth highest in the country and the highest in Western Canada.
Tax Relief: D
The government is removing the Retail Sales Tax from more grocery items and changing the Homeowners Affordability Tax Credit so some homeowners will save on their education property tax bill. Total tax relief announced this year will save
taxpayers $71 million.
The government is not reversing its 2025 bracket creep policy that exploits inflation to bump taxpayers into higher tax brackets. Bracket creep cost Manitoba taxpayers $82 million last year. The tax hike will keep increasing until Manitoba again indexes tax brackets to inflation.
“Sala did not make life more affordable for Manitoba taxpayers in his latest budget,” Haubrich said.
“Manitobans deserve real tax relief, not inadequate
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
A HERO’S HIGHWAY
Stretch
of PTH 10 between Dauphin and the north boundary of RMNP now named after Lt.-Col. William G. Barker
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
South Mountain Press
Not many people earn a highway named after them… let alone wait nearly a century for it.
Billy Barker was born in Dauphin in 1894, left school in grade 11 to enlist, and went on to become the most decorated war hero in Canadian history. He died in 1930 at 35 years old, his name known mostly to history books and aviation buffs. But on May 29, the stretch of PTH 10 between Dauphin and the north boundary of Riding Mountain National Park (RMNP) got a new name, the Lt.-Col. William G. Barker Highway, and a Manitoba legend got the kind of recognition that outlasts all of us.
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor made the announcement, saying the renaming came directly from what the government heard from people in Dauphin and the surrounding region. New signs were unveiled at a ceremony at the Dauphin airport.
Barker grew up on a Manitoba farm, the eldest son of a farmer and blacksmith. He learned to ride and shoot young and was a
decent student until the war interrupted that. He volunteered for the First Canadian Mounted Rifles in November 1914 at 20 years old and spent the next year in the trenches of the Western Front before transferring to the Royal Flying Corps.
His first role was as a gunner-observer, and it was during the Battle of the Somme in late 1916 that he earned the first of what would become 12 gallantry awards. He got his pilot’s certificate in early 1917 and the rest of his record is almost hard to believe. He flew more than 900 combat hours during the war and is credited with destroying 50 enemy aircraft. He never lost an aircraft he was escorting, and never lost a wingman.
His final mission, Oct. 27, 1918, 15 days before the Armistice, is the one that made history. Flying a Sopwith Snipe on the last day
of a ten-day roving commission, he shot down an enemy two-seater and was then jumped by a large formation of German Fokker fighters. He was wounded three times. He kept fighting, shot down three more enemy aircraft, and crashlanded behind Allied lines. The whole battle was watched from the ground by Canadian general Andy McNaughton, who recommended him for the Victoria Cross.
He received it. By the end of the war, Barker held the Victoria Cross, Distinguished Service Order and bar, the Military Cross and two bars, the French Croix de Guerre, and Italy’s Silver Medal for Valour. He was 24 years old. After the war he and fellow ace Billy Bishop started an aviation company together, but Barker never fully recovered from his wounds and struggled in the
years that followed. He died in a plane crash near Ottawa in March 1930.
He is remembered in Dauphin by the school that bears his name and was designated a person of national historic significance by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. The highway renaming was community-driven, with support from the mayor, reeve, and council of both the City and Rural Municipality of Dauphin.
For anyone who has made that drive south from Dauphin toward RMNP, the road looks the same as it always did. It just carries a better name now.
Some legacies just take a little longer to find the right road.
Greg NESBITT MLA for Riding Mountain
PHOTOS FROM LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES CANADA
Friday, June 12, 2026
Jays struggling during 50th anniversary
Whether the Toronto Blue Jays win the World Series or miss the playoffs altogether, the 2026 season will be remembered for the significance of the team celebrating its 50th anniversary.
Only those of a certain age who were around to watch the Jays’ first-ever game back in April, 1977, will recall that instead of sunshine pouring into Exhibition Stadium, where the Jays played their first few seasons, a fluke spring snowfall soured the day. The average American ball fan whose image of a stereotypical Canadian is someone who resides in a cold country and perhaps lives in an igloo may have had those myths confirmed with video replays of that snowy day, April 7. A Zamboni was even needed to clear snow from the field. Normally, weather that extreme would have caused a postponement of an outdoor baseball game, but there had been
Bruce
Penton
SPORTS TALK
so much hype about the Canadian expansion team playing its first game, it was full steam ahead.
Blue Jays won the game, 95 over Chicago White Sox, as Doug Ault (career batting average .236 and 17 home runs), banged out two homers. Wouldn’t it be grand if the Blue Jays celebrated their 50th year of existence with a World Series championship?
Year 49 produced an American League East title, an AL championship and a near miss in the World Series against the Dodgers, losing Game 7 in extra innings at home.
Last year’s team was 22-24 in mid-May before manager John Schneider’s players turned the corner. The Jays had a similar start this year, 31-34 after 65 games, so there’s reason to believe a repeat of 2025 is possible. There are a few ‘ifs’ involved, however: If Vladimir Guerrero Jr., starts swatting home runs like he did last year (he had only three round-trippers after 65 games); if George Springer rebounds from a poor start and starts hitting like the .309 guy from last year; if Addison Barger remembers how he hit 21 home runs last year (injuries have slowed him badly this year); and if the Jays’ pitching staff lives up to its pre-season hype as one of the
best rotations in baseball. Catching first-place Tampa Bay Rays will be tough, but the Jays are solidly in the wildcard race and with Kevin Gausman, Dylan Cease and Trey Yesavage leading the way on the mound and rookie flash Kazuma Okamoto living up to his pre-season billing (team-leading 13 homers and 35 RBI through 65 games), there’s reason to believe Toronto fans will see some playoff games in Year 50.
Meanwhile, the moment in those 50 years Jays’ fans will never forget will be memorialized in a ceremony on July 18.
A statue of Joe Carter’s “touch ‘em all” home run that won the 1993 World Series over Philadelphia Phillies will be unveiled prior to that day’s game against the White Sox.
Blue Jays’ officials would be wise to leave space near the Carter shrine for future statues. The next 50 years is bound produce a couple
more heroes.
•Super 70s Sports: “I miss real intentional walks. The crowd booing, the .01 percent chance something weird would happen, the batter giving off ‘Yeah, I knew you didn’t want any of this’ vibes.”
•The great WC Fields: “Horse sense is the thing a horse has which keeps it from betting on people.”
•Guardian U.S., on Bluesky: “(New York mayor) Zohran Mamdani’s quest to corner the youth vote has continued with the news that he has repealed bedtime for the city’s children during the NBA finals.”
•Mike Bianchi of the Orlando Sentinel, on the difference between San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama at age 22 and Shaquille O’Neal of Orlando Magic at age 22: “Wemby gives the Spurs hope for the future; Shaq took the
Magic’s hope to L.A.”
•Stan Verrett on X: “If I’m Wembanyama, I’m making one call, with one question. The call is to Kareem Abdul Jabbar. The question is ‘can you teach me the sky hook?’ It would be impossible to block.”
•Jack Finarelli on his sportscurmudgeon.com site, after Josh Jacobs of the Packers was arrested for domestic violence, including ‘strangling’: “That is not exactly a ‘judgment call’; ‘strangling’ is never seen as socially acceptable.”
•Headline at fark.com:
“Stephen A. Smith takes credit for the NY Knicks reaching the NBA final. In other news, rooster takes credit for the sun rising.”
Bruce Penton is a former sports editor of the Brandon Sun. Care to comment? Email: brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
MJHL looking to build on successful season
The league posted several social media posts from the 2026 Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) AGM which took place in Steinbach in the last weekend of May, touting their success from last year while planning to build on that for the coming season.
The weekend of meetings, which included the schedule meeting (but not a draft which for some reason was abolished), also included several high-profile speakers, including Winnipeg Jets Assistant Coach Marty Johnson and Sean Hogan from College Hockey Inc. on the changing landscape of NCAA hockey.
Of course, there was a buzz around the board room as the league now gets to boast they have the top team in the country in the Niverville Nighthawks – something that can only help teams in
Derek Holtom
AROUND THE MJHL
recruiting. In fact, given most teams are facing the same difficulties as the others, the MJHL members have really become fraternity where they help each other out as best they can.
“Years ago, when I was governor teams hated each other and didn’t want to tell
teams what was going on, but it’s totally different from that now,” says Warren Clark, who represented the Swan Valley Stampeders at the MJHL AGM. “We call ourselves a family now. We’re competitors, but we’re all in the same league to get players to the next level.
“We had a great AGM, a lot of discussions about standards being set as you’re only as strong as your weakest link,” he added. “We’re trying to get everyone to the same level – things are looking good.”
Clark added there is a lot of opportunities for players these days – many more than when he played junior. And the MJHL is doing their best to leverage their league’s success last season to entice more players to Manitoba.
The Memorial Cup came down to the OHL’s Kitchener Rangers and the WHL’s Everett Silvertips last Sunday. The Rangers ended up prevailing, winning what some consider the hardest trophy to win in sports (given you must win your own league, then a tournament against other league champions).
As it happens, the Swan Valley Stampeders were well represented in this final. Brad Flynn, an assistant coach with the champion Rangers, is a former assistant coach with the Stampeders, dating back to the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons.
On the other side, the Everett Silvertips General Manager Mike Fraser is also a former assistant coach with the Stampeders. He helped coach the team back in 2003 (and covered the team as a sports
Mavericks drop pair to Austin
The Minnedosa Mavericks dropped a pair of Santa Clara Baseball League games to previously winless Austin A’s over the past week. With the two losses the Mavericks dropped to 2-5-0 on the season.
AUSTIN 17 MINNEDOSA 5
Nolan Marriott went the distance on the mound as the A’s dumped the Mavericks 175 in Minnedosa on Friday, June 5.
Marriott allowed just five hits and fanned a total of 10
Minnedosa batters. He also led the team at the plate, driving in five runs with a triple and three singles.
Dale Moir belted a home run and cracked a double and two singles to record three RBIs for the A’s.
Minnedosa starter Devin Foord worked the first three innings and was tagged with the loss. He was followed to the mound by Austin Taylor and Cory Billiaert. The trio gave up 14 hits and walked eight batters.
Victor Lamb drove in two Minnedosa runs with a single.
AUSTIN 10 MINNEDOSA 5
Brenden Reimer drove in five runs with a home run and single as the A’s doubled the Mavericks 10-5 in Austin on Wednesday, June 3.
Dale Moir chipped in with three singles.
Rory Manns recorded the pitching win, going 6-2/3 innings before giving way to Reimer who got the final out. The pair allowed four hits and recorded eight strikeouts.
Luke Gugin, who came on in relief of starter Aiden McGorman with a 5-3 lead in the fourth, suffered the loss. The pair gave up 10 hits, walked seven and struckout 10. Seth Sulik had two singles for the Mavericks.
reporter for the Swan Valley Star and Times).
Fraser went on to be a prolific hockey scout with Swift Current and Brandon before becoming head scout in Everett. He worked his way up to being general manager last season, and in his second season put together a championship team.
It’s a good reminder that the MJHL isn’t just a development league for players – lots of coaches go onto bigger and grander things after cutting their teeth in the MJHL.
Derek Holtom is a freelance writer who covers the MJHL from Winnipeg.
Dauphin’s Countryfest launches new promotion
Dauphin: The Herald –The ‘Two Step and Stay’ promotion being offered by Dauphin’s Countryfest, leading up to this year’s festival, is offering a free campsite in the Fisher regular campground for anyone purchasing two general admission weekend passes. Countryfest president, Duane McMaster, said the promotion is about topping up an already fantastic crowd, excited for Jelly Roll, along with fellow headliners, Nate Smith and Tyler Hubbard.
Boissevain: The Recorder – Minary siblings, Cody and Kendra, along with brother Adam, recently reopened the Minary Homestyle Bakery in Souris. The three worked there with their parents, Darwyn and Cindy, who both passed away this spring. By keeping the Souris landmark open, their parents’ memories are being kept alive. For how the community has responded, the young entrepreneurs are so grateful that for the support shown by town folk and beyond.
Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – Ty Cutler of Moosomin was recently named Man/Sask Auctioneer of the Year at the Canadian Live-
Paper Clips
stock Auctioneer Championship, held from May 7-10, in Medicine Hat, AB and Maple Creek, SK. Forty-one auctioneers competed this year.
Neepawa: The Banner & Press – Lenjo Uebersax, an exceptionally strong and academically driven math student attending the Plumas Elementary School, was named Mathletics’ top Grade 8 student in Canada. He was also ranked 30th worldwide.
Dauphin: The Herald –The City of Dauphin is set to play an important role in helping to address a shortage of paramedics in Manitoba. During his State of the Province address hosted by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, Premier Wab Kinew announced an $115,000 investment for Assiniboine College to create a new rotating rural Primary Care Paramedic Program, with the first cohort starting at Parkland Campus in Dauphin. The program will increase access for rural and western Manitoba students, helping build a stronger pipeline of paramed-
ics for communities across the region.
Boissevain: The Recorder – A pet peeve of recycling veterans at the Boissevain Recycling Depot is when garbage like kitchen scraps or diapers get tossed in the bins, as it makes for very unpleasant work. The Municipality of Boissevain-Morton recognized Norma Evans, Ethel Black, and Jake Neufeld for dedicating 30 or more years of service to recycling in the community. Evans was one of the original volunteers when the recycling project started, and is celebrating 36 years of volunteering. Cardboard and paper are the top two items handled by the volunteers.
Baldur / Glenboro: The Gazette – Two years ago, Glenboro native Glen Thornborough was named one of Boston’s most influential people. Since then, his upward trajectory has only continued to climb. The Glenboro High School graduate, who currently serves as president of TD Garden – the home of the Boston Bruins – has now taken on an expanded role as executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Bruins; one of the NHL’s sto-
ried “Original Six” franchises.
Roblin: The Review –Brettyn Rose, the granddaughter of former Roblin residents, Verlyn and Theresa Ferguson, was featured on e-Talk, promoting her new EP “The Wild West”. Songs on the recording were written as Rose was entering her early 20s and encapsulates all the experiences she had during that time, both good and bad. One of the first artists the Okotoks, AB singer-songwriter connected with was Sheryl Crow, and is obsessed with modern artists like Ella Langley, Lainey Wilson, and Carly Pearce.
Pilot Mound: The Hometown View – The late William “Bill” Delorme of Pilot Mound was inducted on to the Manitoba Fiddlers Wall of Fame earlier this spring in Carman. The induction ceremony was an emotional and happy tribute to a man and wonderful fiddler, who was born in 1898, and enjoyed playing the violin / fiddle for dances in rural country schools, barn dances, and across southern Manitoba. One of his crowning achievements was playing with the famous fiddler, Don Messer,
in Pilot Mound in 1950.
Neepawa: The Banner & Press – Neepawa’s Salvation Army achieved a significant milestone on May 13, holding the official grand opening of its new Community Services Centre, located at Unit B 342 Mountain Avenue. The new space was developed through community consultations, as well as growing demand for services that could no longer be accommodated at the former Thrift Store location. It includes a reception area, two private offices, an expanded shopping style food bank, space for workshops, events, and a community kitchen, which can be rented.
Baldur / Glenboro: The Gazette – The Rural Municipality of Victoria, in partnership with the Province of Manitoba and the Government of Canada, is proud to relay that the longanticipated Cypress River lagoon project is officially moving forward following two years of planning, coordination and scheduling. Pegged at a cost of $3 million, the construction contract has been awarded to Earth Max, a company with extensive experience in lagoon construction.
Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – There is a lot of construction taking place in the Moosomin area at the moment, including work on a new UFA cardlock and bulk sales site, work on the site where a second rink will be built, work on the second location of Playfair Daycare, the expansion of the IJACK manufacturing plant, the new Johnston’s Grain facility, and work at the site of the new Black Box Commercial Condos.
Whitewood: Grasslands News – Within seconds of being informed “your school is now under lockdown,” halls and public areas of Whitewood School fell completely silent – nobody in sight. On the morning of April 28, the school and members of the Broadview RCMP, Whitewood Fire Department and Whitewood Emergency Medical Services participated in its most recent lockdown drill. The exercise for students, staff and emergency personnel was to help prepare for what they hope never happens. For a number of students they thought the scenario was real, exactly what officials wanted to hear.
Bill passes to remove PST from groceries starting on July 1
The spring sitting of the third session of the 43rd legislature adjourned with the passing of Bill 53, the Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, which will remove the provincial sales tax (PST) from groceries starting July 1, among other impactful bills, government house leader Nahanni Fontaine announced.
“Taking PST off groceries will make life more affordable for Manitobans,” said Fontaine.
During this legislative session, Fontaine noted the Manitoba government passed several bills to help lower costs, improve health care and create good jobs, including:
•Bill 53, the Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, will make housing and essential goods more affordable by removing PST from groceries, increasing the Homeowners Affordability Tax Credit to $1,700 and the Renters Affordability Tax Credit to $675.
•Bill 49, the Business Practices Amendment Act, will protect consumers by prohibiting retailers from using consumers’ personal data to increase the price of goods based on algorithmically determined information.
•Bill 27, the Declaration of Principles for Patient Health Care Act, will create a safer, more efficient patient experience and improve safety for patients and staff through a patient safety charter that en-
shrines the right to good health care.
•Bill 28, the Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act, will implement nurse-to-patient ratios.
•Bill 26, the Health System Government and Accountability Amendment Act, will begin to eliminate mandatory overtime for nurses.
•Bill 11, the Employment Standards Code Amendment Act, will limit the requirement for sick notes by banning them for up to seven days.
•Bill 8, the Long-Bladed Weapon Control Amendment Act, will take weapons off the streets by establishing restrictions on the sale of longbladed weapons and pepper spray including photo identification requirements and limits on access for minors.
•Bill 31, the Highway Traffic Amendment Act, will combat drunk driving by requiring motorists with Class 1 to 4 licences to maintain zero blood-alcohol levels.
The Manitoba government’s investment in frontline staff has helped produce a record number of physicians practising in the province, supported the hiring of 48 new provincially funded police officers and contributed to significant reductions in crime, according to theWinnipeg Police Service’s 2025 Statistical Report, including a 48 percent decrease in homicides.
Ponds act as a
The view from my office on Vancouver Island is unequaled. When I am working at my desk, I look over Lake Omar, which is a permanent catchment pond. Catchment ponds or retention basins are man-made ponds designed to collect and manage rainwater runoff. A permanent retention pond, acts as a vital artificial ecosystem that provides significant environmental benefits. Water that is sustained throughout the year supports complex aquatic life and this biodiversity creates a thriving habitat oasis. Permanent ponds filter storm water runoff and act as a natural filter. As the storm water enters, the water flow slows which allows sediment, heavy metals and other pollutants to settle to the bottom of the pond. As the nutrients are taken up by thriving plant life, the water becomes more purified. These permanent ponds help cool the surrounding microclimate, preventsoil erosion along the plant-covered banks and significantly improve the natural landscape. They are typically nutrient rich and are not fed by natural streams. This body of water has ever-changing scenery that is soothing and extremely entertaining. As I am writing this article, there are two pairs of Canada geese vying for this piece of paradise by loudly honking and exhibiting behaviour that will chase the less strong pair of geese to find another place to nest, and claim what they are viewing as the superior spot to raise their young. The superior pair are now resting on the Floating Umbrella and soaking up the morning sun.
As we move into summer, the pond changes, as there is less run-off entering. The water levels fall, the temperature of the water rises and the plant and animal living in this body of water flourish. The pond naturally supports cattails, water lilies and a variety of other native flora. Ducks, geese, herons, kingfishers, turtles and crayfish all love this body of water and we even get visits from beavers, muskrat and river otters. Hidden from our naked eye, this pond is also a source of many invertebrates and other tiny plants and animals that aid our visitors as well as our Coho salmon in growing quickly as fry in the hatchery. We are part of the salmonid enhancement program on Vancouver Island and this past season, I was tasked with modernizing the hatchery. As we were getting ready to pond our tiny salmon this year, Lake Omar water was added
Patricia Hanbidge GARDENING
to the incubating Heath stacks to gradually introduce what will be the new environment for the Coho which is water from Lake Omar.
Just having this nutrientrich water flowing through their gills, the Coho were absorbing nutrients without even actively feeding. Hence, those Coho that experienced Lake Omar water for a longer period of time thrived as newly ponded fry with no adjustment period. This spring we also released Rainbow Trout into Lake Omar, as they are an integral part of managing this body of water. It also allows interested students the opportunity to fly-fish right here on campus. Needless to say, the Rainbow Trout that many of our students are trying to entice with their fly fishing skills are fat and happy with what they are eating in Lake Omar and not very tempted to work at catching a lure in spite of being expertly made by our students involved in the Fly-Tying 360 club.
The family of mallard ducklings is now nestled together on the stump in front of the hatchery, preening and getting ready to have their mid-morning nap. They were very accommodating to allow me to wander out onto the dock to capture their happiness. Lake Omar has provided for this mother and her seven ducklings ensuring they have a safe place to grow and being supplied with the best food source available for them. We might think that the green stuff floating in Lake Omar is just another algae bloom – but it is instead a protein rich food called water meal or mealy duckweed. If you look closely at the picture of the ducklings, their crops are full to bursting with a super food they are feasting on in Lake Omar.
Watch next week for part 2 and learn more about the newest super food!
Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; email growyourfuture@gmail.com or on facebook @orchidhort. com
Solving your poor sleep problems
Q: I used to be such a good sleeper, but now I have trouble falling asleep, and I wake up several times during the night. Any solutions that don’t call for meds? – Kayla Y, Youngstown, OH
A: You’re contending with problems that affect many Americans, for many reasons. New data from the National Health Survey shows that around a third of U.S. adults get less than seven hours of sleep a night (seven to eight is recommended). Interestingly, it’s folks ages 18 to 34 who have the most trouble falling asleep, and women 50 and older have the most trouble staying asleep.
The causes can range from social media scrolling, chronic pain, bladder woes, menopausal progestin deficiency and stress to lousy sleep habits and a disruptive environment (light and noise, uncomfortable temperatures, an unsupportive mattress, or a snoring bed partner).
To improve your sleep, take an inventory of your bedroom. Is it dark and quiet? A white noise machine can help reduce disruptive sounds, and light-blocking shades are important. Also make sure the light (especially blue light) from electronic devices is blocked. And put your phone out of reach.
Then assess your sleep routine. Avoid eating or drinking alcohol within a couple of hours of bedtime. Head for bed and wake up at the same time every day. And talk to your doctor about other possible causes of sleep disruption, such as sleep apnea.
If bladder issues disturb
your sleep (aka nocturia), see a urologist to explore solutions, including bladdercalming medications. Contending with menopause?
Talk to your gynecologist about hormone replacement therapy using micronized progestin and a baby aspirin to reduce the risk of blood clots.
Are you dealing with acute or chronic stress? Moderate to intense exercise daily dispels stress and improves sleep. Also, try 10 minutes of meditation before shut-eye. And eliminate stress-causing, highly processed foods and added sugars.
Q: I’m hearing that NAD+ supplements, injectables and IV infusions can slow aging and promote healthy longevity. What can I expect from taking this? Also, what is it exactly? – Craig F., Santa Fe, NM
A: NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a very important molecule produced in your body by the metabolism of the vitamin B3, aka niacin. The body can also convert tryptophan – an
amino acid – to nicotinamide. NDA+ works to help mitochondria, the battery in every cell, produce energy. It also helps keep cells alive, in part by repairing damaged or aging DNA. Levels do decline as you age and may contribute to a roster of age-related conditions, from glaucoma to Type 2 diabetes and heart failure.
But the online enthusiasm for NAD+ boosting supplements, injectables and IV infusions has very little to do with the available evidence about their benefits to human beings. As Christopher Mar-
tens, director of the Delaware Center for Cognitive Aging Research and a leading researcher in this field, puts it: Early animal studies were exciting, but “I think now the cart may be well ahead of the horse.”
Not only are NAD+ supplements not well-absorbed in human cells, but promising research done on rodents doesn’t necessarily translate to benefits for humans. The human studies that have been done are small and limited, although there are indications that doses of NAD+ may benefit women with pre-
diabetes, people in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease, and those with peripheral artery disease.
My advice? Stay tuned for solid evidence of the benefits and insights into the risks (if any) of boosting levels of NAD+ using supplements, injections and infusions. And at up to $1,000 per treatment, I’d say that these days, IV infusions are clearly a wallet biopsy in humans! If you want to boost your B3 levels, enjoy salmon, chicken breasts, peanuts, brown rice and mushrooms. And for data on antiaging therapy that works, check out therapeutic plasma exchange at LifeSpanEdge.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, “The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow,” and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
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Licensed gun dealer looking for firearms in all classes, and anything firearms related. Inheritance assistance provided. Can store handguns during the ban. Call or text Keith 204-471-9015.
Wanted: Collector paying top prices for old advertising signs, gas pumps, Red Indian, White Rose, Buffalo, Ford, Dodge, GM. 1968-1970 Chargers, 1970 to 1971 Barracuda’s. Running or not. Call 306-221-5908.
SEED FOR SALE
Forage Seed For Sale: Organic & Conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Birch Rose Acres Ltd., 306-921-9942.
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of recreational opportunities, parks, lakes, cultural events, a sense of community and much more!
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Home Care Attendants & Health Care Aides Casual; Full Time & Part Time positions Cook I & Dietary Aides Casual; Full
THE HEALTH CARE TEAM! APPLY TODAY! www. prairiemountainhealth.ca click on Careers
An excellent health care benefit package that includes but limited to health & dental benefits, pension plan & a health spending account.
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in Prairie Mountain Health however only those candidates selected
South Mountain Press
Friday, June 12, 2026
CN responds to derailment near St. Lazare
On June 5, CN responded to a derailment that occurred west of St. Lazare. There were no dangerous goods, leaks, fires, injuries or impact to the public. CN crews and local first responders attended to the scene, and the cause of the incident remains under investigation.
CN apologizes for any inconvenience caused by this incident. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
On June 1, Roblin RCMP responded to a report of a two-vehicle collision west of town. The collision occurred about six kilometres northwest of Roblin. RCMP believe a northbound van travelling on Provincial Road 484 was hit by a westbound semi-truck travelling on Road 153 North. The intersection is controlled by stop signs for eastbound and westbound traffic. When officers arrived, they found the semi-truck flipped over and blocking the road while the van had sustained significant damage. The driver of the van, a 42-year-old male from Roblin, died at the scene. The driver of the semi, a 31-year-old Roblin male, was taken to hospital in serious but non-lifethreatening condition. Roblin RCMP are investigating to determine the cause of the collision.
On June 6, Portage la Prairie RCMP received a report of an altercation between an adult male and group of teenagers in MacGregor. RCMP located the suspect inside a resi-
Provincial Roundup RCMP Briefs
dence. While attempting to bring him into custody, an officer discharged their firearm. The suspect – a 33-yearold MacGregor male – was not shot but did suffer an injury as a result of the firearm being discharged and was transported to hospital in Winnipeg via air ambulance, where he was treated and released. No other injuries occurred. The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba and RCMP Major Crime Services are investigating.
On June 6, Beausejour RCMP were notified of a single motor-vehicle collision on Road 38 East in the Rural Municipality (R.M.) of Brokenhead. It was reported that a male was found lying on the side of the road and his vehicle was in the ditch against some trees. The male appeared to be in medical distress as he was unresponsive when the witness found him. The driver of the vehi-
cle, a 63-year-old male from the R.M. of St. Clements, was immediately transported to the local hospital by Emergency Medical Services. He was later pronounced deceased once at the hospital. Beausejour RCMP continue to investigate.
On May 31, Selkirk RCMP responded to a collision involving a motorcycle and another vehicle on Highway 44, at the intersection of Provincial Road 212 in the R.M. of St. Clements. Officers responded immediately and learned that a motorcycle was travelling east on Highway 44 when it collided with another vehicle which was crossing the highway going north on PR 212. The driver of the motorcycle, a 66-yearold male from the R.M. of Brokenhead, was transported to hospital by STARS and suffered from serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The passenger of the motorcycle, a 70-year-old female also from the R.M. of Brokenhead, was pronounced deceased on scene. The driver of the other vehicle, a 19-year-old female from Portage la Prairie, was transported to hospital as a precaution and did not appear injured. Selkirk RCMP, along with Manitoba RCMP traffic services, continue to investigate.
On May 30, Gypsumville
HELP WANTED
has immediate openings for the following positions:
■ Autobody Technician
We are looking to hire a JOURNEYMAN AUTOBODY TECHNICIAN for a busy auto shop. Would consider third or fourth year apprentice. Applicant should be able to work on all makes and models and perform quality repairs as per industry standards.
■ Light Duty Mechanic
We are looking to hire a full-time JOURNEYMAN LIGHT DUTY MECHANIC. Would consider fourth year apprentice. Duties to include, but not limited to: general engine and mechanical repairs, electrical service diagnosis, oil changes, install and balance tires, perform tire rotations, etc.
All applicants must be organized, highly motivated, and have a keen eye for detail. Individuals should have excellent communication and people skills and take pride in delivering outstanding customer service and quality workmanship.
We offer competitive pay, group benefit plan and a positive work environment. Applicant must possess a positive attitude and the ability to work as part of a team.
Drop off resumes:
Shoal Lake Rad & Glass, 316 Elm St., Shoal Lake, MB
Email: shoallakeradglass@gmail.com
Phone: 204-759-2251
We appreciate your interest but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
RCMP responded to a single ATV collision on Obushkudayang Boulevard in Lake St. Martin First Nation. Officers attended and located two males near the ATV with serious injuries. A 50year-old male from Winnipeg was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and has since been discharged. The other male, a 39-year-old from Winnipeg, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Morris RCMP are investigating after responding to three suspicious fires over the last few days. The first call came in May 29, at approximately 11:00 p.m., where a small jacket had been placed near the intersection of Main Street and Charles Avenue and set on fire. No damage was reported. Fire department attended but it was out before they arrived. That same evening, at approximately 12:00 a.m., officers responded to a reported fire at a church on Main Street. Officers arrived, and the fire department was on scene and had extinguished a small fire in a tree and near a statue on the front lawn. A window of the church was found to be cracked due to the heat from the close proximity of the fire, but no other damage
was noted. On June 1, at approximately 11:30 p.m., police were called for a suspicious vehicle behind a business, when they noticed flames coming from the rear of a business on Charles Street West. Officers used a fire extinguisher until the local fire department arrived. Initial investigation indicates a mattress that was leaning against a shed had been lit on fire. No one was injured in any of the incidents.
On May 29, Ste. Rose du Lac RCMP responded to a report of two males fighting on Highway 68, in the R.M. of Alonsa. Officers responded and did not find a fight in progress but did locate a male who appeared to be intoxicated and had almost been hit by a passing vehicle. After the male asked for a ride home, officers called one of his relatives and arranged to drop him off at a location in Ste. Rose du Lac. When officers arrived at the address and met the relative, the individual became agitated, said he would walk home and began walking towards the road. Officers them moved to arrest the male under the Intoxicated Persons Detention Act, which sparked an altercation that resulted in one of the of-
ficers being pushed to the ground. The suspect was taken into custody. A 29year-old Grandview male faces charges of: Assaulting a police officer; and Resisting a peace officer. He was released on an undertaking the following morning.
