An employee of Eddie’s Gravel Supply Ltd. of Winnipeg Beach was found busting out a small section of cement sidewalk at the end of Erickson’s Main Street on Friday, May 31. The new cement sidewalk in the location of the post office and library was previously laid down by the company, as the Municipality of Clanwilliam-Erickson continues to revitalize the look of the community’s business section.
Including both Asessippi and Rivers Provincial Parks, hiking trails in all 93 of Manitoba’s provincial parks and recreation areas are closed as part of travel restrictions imposed due to the current wildfire situation across the province.
Presently battling a severe wildfire crisis and displacing
many, Manitoba has issued a province-wide state of emergency, effective for 30 days. Wildfires are spreading rapidly across the region, causing widespread evacuations and significant damage to communities and natural areas.
Fire officials confirm that there are now 22 active wildfires across the province, with a total of 103 fires since the start of the season — stating that these numbers are well above the usual average for
this time of year.
In response to the growing danger, Manitoba has implemented a full provincial fire ban, including a ban on all open fires, burn permits, camping in backcountry areas, and restrictions on watercraft. Only developed campgrounds and specific designated areas remain open, and in many places, outdoor activities are prohibited to prevent further fire risks. The western, northern, and eastern regions of
Manitoba are feeling the brunt of the wildfire situation.
Being a federal park, Riding Mountain National Park (RMNP) is under different limitations. As of press time, camping is permitted and trails remain open in RMNP, but discussion is continuing regarding the federal park’s restrictions. However, the provincial fire ban is in effect within RMNP. Fires continue to threaten the region, and park visitors are advised
to follow safety guidelines. One of the most remarkable aspects of this crisis is the extraordinary effort of local firefighters. Fire department members from Birtle, Inglis, Miniota, Rivers, Rossburn, Shoal Lake, and many other communities have mobilized volunteers and personnel to help fight these fires, traveling north to assist with ongoing efforts.
SEE RAINS , PAGE 2
Dan Mazier, Member of Parliament for Riding Mountain, has been promoted to serve as the Official Opposition’s Shadow Minister for Health. In this new role, Mazier will lead the Conservative team in holding the Liberal government to account on one of the most pressing issues facing Canadians today: fixing Canada’s broken healthcare system. His focus will be on federal policies and barriers that affect access to care, health workforce shortages, and addiction recovery efforts across the country.
“It’s an honour to take on this significant responsibility,” said Mazier. “Canadians are waiting too long for care, healthcare workers are burnt out, and families have lost faith in a system clogged by government gatekeepers. Conservatives are ready to help fix it.”
Mazier, who previously served as Shadow Minister
for Rural Economic Development and Connectivity, acknowledged that while health is a new portfolio for him, the need for urgent action is clear.
The evacuations of the communities of Flin Flon and surrounding areas, Lynn Lake, Pimicikamak Cree Nation, Mathias Colomb Cree Nation and Tataskweyak Cree Nation have been completed, impacting more than 17,000 residents. First responders continue to assist with the evacuation of Black Sturgeon Falls. Power outages in critical areas like Cranberry Portage have also occurred as a result of the fires and ongoing emergency responses.
Despite recent rains that offered some relief, strong and unpredictable winds have kept fire conditions extreme.
Persistent high to extreme fire danger remains across much of the province, with large areas under strict fire bans. Air quality has also been poor, with smoke from the fires causing intermittent air quality warnings, affecting residents’ health and outdoor activities.
The province’s emergency declaration will remain in effect until at least June 26, with ongoing firefighter efforts. The government and volunteer crews are working around the clock to contain the fires and prevent further damage.
As the wildfire situation across the province continues to evolve, and residents are urged to stay alert, and follow all safety and travel advisories. The government and firefighting agencies are doing everything possible to
“For 10 years, the Liberals
page 1
control the fires, but the severity highlights the urgent need for continued caution and cooperation.
have made excuses while access to doctors has got worse,” Mazier said. “Canada’s healthcare system is broken because government gatekeepers block access to care.”
While provinces manage the delivery of healthcare, the federal government plays a key role by enforcing the Canada Health Act. The federal government is responsible for providing funding through health transfers, approving drugs, coordinating national strategies on mental health and addiction, and overseeing the Public Health Agency of Canada.
As Shadow Minister, Mazier will advocate for Conservative proposals to restore timely access to care. These include removing bureaucratic barriers and advocat-
ing for a “Blue Seal” credential recognition program.
“We’ll focus on results, not red tape,” Mazier said. “That means developing a pan-Canadian credential recognition program to bring more doctors and nurses into the system by creating nationally recognized licenses for trained professionals.”
Mazier also emphasized the importance of compassion and accountability in addressing addiction and mental health. “The current approach isn’t working. Conservatives will work to end the Liberals’ reckless drug legalization experiment that’s flooding our streets with taxpayer-funded opioids and instead focus on expanding treatment programs to help Canadians recover and rebuild their lives.”
DONALD BERGER
South Mountain Press
What began as a grassroots dream around a Polonia community hall table has become one of Manitoba’s most beloved smalltown traditions.
Now celebrating its 28th year, the Little Valley Jamboree returns to the Erickson Rec Centre on Friday, June 13 and Saturday, June 14 with two days of live music, food, auctions, and heartfelt community connection – all to uplift community children and their families who are battling serious medical hardships.
At its core, the Jamboree is powered by contagious communal compassion. One of the very first children supported was Candice Wright of Minnedosa, whose family helped shape the event’s early days. That legacy continues through the many area residents who have donated, volunteered, or performed over the years, helping fuel the event’s un-
celebrates 28 years of raising funds to help support local kids facing medica l challenges
deniably supportive crosscommunity spirit.
The compelling focus of this year’s Jamboree is to raise funds for three children:
Brooks Davis (age 2, Souris) lives with cerebral palsy and epilepsy, attends regular therapy in Brandon and Souris, and will travel to Calgary this summer for specialized treatment.
John Jacob Bernardo (age 8, Neepawa) is a non-verbal autistic child who thrives with the support of his family and finds joy in swimming, nature, and books.
Odin Hebert (age 6, Brandon) was born 10 weeks early, lives with multiple diagnoses, and travels to Ontario twice a year for intensive therapy.
Proceeds will help cover costs not covered by provincial programs, such as specialized equipment, therapy sessions, and out-of-province travel.
Founded in 1998 by local
musician Rod Lewandoski, the Jamboree began in Polonia with a simple goal: use music to make a difference. After moving to Erickson in 2006, the event found a larger home and an even broader support base. Today, the festival is collectively driven by seven passionate Erickson-area organizations and dozens of compassionate volunteers from across the region.
“Every year, we’re blown away by how many people step up,” said one anonymous longtime volunteer. “They come to play music, donate to the auction, help with setup, or just show up and support the kids. That’s what this is all about.”
Jamboree committee member Toni Ferguson has witnessed the festival evolve firsthand.
“Every year is special, but seeing how Jamboree continues to grow and thrive after so many years is amazing,” said Ferguson. “It was
originally a small event in Polonia, and now we’re seeing upwards of 300 attendees per day and supporting three children per year. As our needs grow, the community response matches it.”
Families seeking support fill out a nomination form, and the committee votes based on urgency and need. While the Jamboree raises around $50,000 annually, funds are also set aside for unexpected needs throughout the year.
“It’s more than just the money,” Ferguson added. “Being part of the Jamboree family is something special. Many past recipients still attend, and many even volunteer. I think we’ve had a positive impact on every family that’s been involved.”
This year’s event promises an exciting lineup of activities and improvements, including a revised schedule to accommodate attendees
better, with events occurring on Friday evening and all day Saturday instead of the usual Saturday to Sunday format. This allows for a more compact and engaging experience, and Sunday as a full day of recovery.
The Kids Zone has been revamped to be more enjoyable than ever, featuring a delightful petting zoo where children can interact with friendly animals and create unforgettable memories. There is no chance of dampening the festive atmosphere, as the expanded indoor programming ensures that all music performances and auctions will proceed seamlessly, regardless of the weather.
There will be as always, ample parking (with handicapped spots near the en-
trance), and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and sunscreen for the outdoor activities. Unreserved camping is available nearby, and admission is open to all ages.
“The support from local sponsors and volunteers is the only way we can continue what we do,” said Ferguson. “Without them, we have nothing.”
Want to help? The Jamboree always welcomes new volunteers and donors.
With deep roots in the region, the Little Valley Jamboree isn’t just a music festival, it’s a gregarious testament to what small-town Manitoba does best: rally together, lift each other up, and make life brighter for those who need it most.
SATURDAY
Friday, June 6, 2025
Q: I want to stay mentally sharp as I age (I am 55 now) and keep hearing about the importance of neuroplasticity. Can you explain? –
David R., Providence, RI
A: Neuroplasticity is used to describe the brain’s neurological processes and their ability to change their structure, function and neural pathways in response to stimulation from the outside environment, daily experiences and intentional learning. This agility is what allows your brain to continue to adapt and grow so that you stay sharp as you age. But neuroplasticity can be damped by everything from chronic stress to poor sleep habits, lousy nutrition, isolation, lack of new stimulation and challenges, and lack of physical activity.
The good news is that by making sure you regularly do activities that encourage neuroplasticity, you can strengthen your cognitive muscles. Here are four steps to take, starting today:
1. Get at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity most days. That increases a brain protein, BDNF, which stimulates brain cell growth. When levels of BDNF dip, that can decrease your ability to concentrate, learn and remember.
2. To reinforce neural connections and create what’s called cognitive reserve (your backstop against declining brain power), keep your brain awake and alert. Frequently, learn a new skill (a game, language, or art), read, go to cultural events, and have new experiences.
3. Upgrade your diet with
brain-fueling foods like salmon, fresh fruits and vegetables and 100% whole grains, nuts and seeds. Avoid red and processed meats, fried foods, added sugars/syrups, and highly processed foods.
4. Give yourself a break! Practice stress reduction through meditation, adopting good sleep habits and staying involved with your posse and beyond. Those habits lower chronic inflammation, which is brain damaging.
Q: My doctor is suggesting that I take one of those new weight loss drugs – offlabel – to help me cut down on my alcohol consumption. Does this make any sense? –
Pat R., Ann Arbor, MI
A: What are called GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide (Wegovy), liraglutide (Saxenda), and tirzepatide (Zepbound), are approved for weight loss. The GLP-1s called exenatide (Byetta), liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda), lixisenatide (Adlyxin), dulaglutide (Trulicity), and semaglutide (Rybelsus, Ozempic,
Wegovy) are approved for treating Type 2 diabetes.
But once they hit the market, researchers started noticing other benefits. Three GLP-1s, liraglutide (Victoza), semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), and dulaglutide (Trulicity). have now been approved to reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease.
Several studies indicate that GLP-1s may have even farther-ranging benefits. One found that semaglutide was effective in controlling nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. There’s also research indicating that the medications im-
prove neurological functioning in Parkinson’s – probably through improvement in insulin signaling. And they may help ease symptoms of depression and reduce amyloid tangles and tau proteins in the brain that are associated with Alzheimer’s.
The most recent news about GLP-1s impact comes from data in a research letter published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism. It reports that folks with obesity who were taking the medications for weight loss selfreported a dramatic impact on their alcohol consumption
Over the course of four months, those who were regular drinkers went from having around 23 drinks a week to under eight. And that’s without any prompting!
Now, this report involves a small number of patients, they reported their own drinking habits, there wasn’t a control group – and all patients were obese. But it suggests that GLP-1s’ alcoholrelated benefits, which have been observed in animal studies, may apply to humans. So, discuss GLP-1s risks and benefits for your particular situation with your doctor and do what’s best for you.
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.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook. com.
Neepawa: The Banner & Press – The Beautiful Plains Medical Clinic’s own Dr. Nichelle Desilets, has assumed the presidency of Doctors Manitoba, serving for the 2025-2026 term. The member organization advocates for and represents doctors in the province of Manitoba. Dr. Desilets is very grateful to be a doctor working in a public health care system, in which the government funds our healthcare needs through taxpayer dollars. She pursued an executive role within Doctors Manitoba, from a desire to help advocate for healthcare services.
Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – Part of a special gala put forth by the Elkhorn and Area Foundation, which started in 1999, was the presentation of the Citizen of the Year Award, which went to Roberta “Bert” Kyle. This year, four names – Samantha Cluett, Kay Thompson, Kaileigh Kyle, and Kyle – were put forth as nominees. This honour was started in 2001 as a way to recognize community members who have given freely of their time, skills, and help to make Elkhorn a great place to live.
Pilot Mound: The Hometown View – The Pilot Mound Hockey Academy (PMHA) was thrilled to have four of its players selected in the annual Western Hockey League Prospects Draft. Se-
lected were Gavin Hildebrand of Morden (Penticton Vees), Brett Buors of Niverville (Prince George Cougars), Cole Landreville of St. Claude (Edmonton Oil Kings), and hometown athlete, Maddox Ramage (Swift Current Broncos). The PMHA motto is “Developing dedicated players within an academic environment.
Baldur: The Gazette –Cypress River’s Graham McGill struck gold at this year’s Skills Manitoba competition held at Red River College. McGill, a second-year Web Technologies student at Assiniboine College in Brandon, said he was surprised he won. Participants are given assignments that are impossible to complete in the time allotted and are judged on the basis of what they did accomplish in the time given.
Russell: The Banner –Halayna Boden’s passion for softball began as a 9-yearold, and initiated her drive to become a great pitcher by attending a 9:00 a.m. pitching-clinic with Greg Bouchard in Winnipeg. Over the past five years, the Major Pratt graduate, who has just completed her Bachelor Degree in Science and Kinesiology in Calgary, has assisted with a number of
With a cooler morning temperature of Friday, May 31, to their liking, a group of four ladies enjoyed zig zagging from one unique business to another within the Wasagaming business community. Featuring inspired merchandise, giftware and summer apparel, or something a little sweet – it’s hard not to want to take a little something home as a special memory. Families, individuals and other groups were also seeking a great place to view Clear Lake, a unique lake for the prairie parkland area. From camping to cabins there are plenty of ways to relax.
Matthew Kroeker Journeyman Mason
Tile Kitchens, Baths Waterproof Showers
Masonry Field Stone, Brick, Veneers Fireplaces
Steam Rooms
All repairs, renovations, and new construction Cell: 204-232-9797
This is the second article in the series on my choice of some of the best perennials to plant in your garden. Perennials give you many years of beauty and should be included in the garden, in spite of the challenge of planting them appropriately. I feel that it is important to plant perennials that give you colour throughout the season and extremely attractive to butterflies and bees. They need to be well-behaved in the garden as the last thing that we need is planting a long-term problem plant.
A selection of Chrysanthemums (Mums) is one o the best perennials to provide lots of great colour late in the season. However, there is a great difference between the types of chrysanthemum, which will bloom in areas that have short seasons, as Mums are a type of flower that is triggered by the day length. It is actually the night length that is important but for some silly reason when plants need a certain amount of dark hours to trigger the bloom we call it “day length”. The confusing world of horticulture and gardening continues! At any rate, as a perennial, Mums will bloom late in the season when our nights are getting much longer than the day. Unfortunately, when you live in an area whose growing season is short and it is also a cooler climate, those short days (long nights) are often after we get a killing frost and daytime temperatures are not very hospitable either to growing outdoors. Thus, the Morden series of Mums began and these Mums use not only the length of night but also the temperature to trigger the bloom. So in order to get Mums to bloom prior to the temperature becoming too cold outside, it is necessary in the prairie climate to grow “Morden Mums”. For my garden, I chose a selection of Mums that will successfully give us colour in September most years when most of the other perennials are long past blooming. Unless otherwise stated, they are all about 18 inches (45 cm) in height and will spread to about 30 inches (75 cm). These Mums have an upright spreading habit of growth with a very fine texture. This is truly a low-maintenance herbaceous perennial. Chrysanthemum x morifo-
lium ‘Jefbiz’ which is also known as the Showbiz Mum was developed with a cross between Morden Fiesta and Morden Canary and has an abundance of lovely light purple pompom like flowers.
Chrysanthemum x morifolium ‘Jefdream’ or Dreamweaver Mum is a bit larger Mum with a height of 30 inches (75 cm) and spreads 48 inches (120 cm). It has lovely soft mauve-coloured flowers with flared trumpet-shaped petals on the margins and an attractive yellow center.
Chrysanthemum x morifolium ‘Jefdust’ or Stardust Mum produces an abundance of dusty rose flowers with fluted petals.
Chrysanthemum x morifolium ‘Jefstorm’ or Firestorm Mum is about 22 inches (55 cm) in height and spreads 40 inches (100 cm) with outstanding deep red petals with anattractive yellow center.
Chrysanthemum x morifolium ‘Jefsurge’ or Power Surge Mum has fully double red flowers.
Chrysanthemum x morifolium ‘Jeftail’ is about 30 inches high (75 cm) and spreads about 48 inches (120 cm) and has outstanding peachy-orange flower buds that open to double blossoms of tangerine that fade to light yellow.
Chrysanthemum x morifolium ‘Morden Fiesta’ has stunning purple flowers with a yellow center.
Chrysanthemum x morifolium ‘Prairie Lavender’ has soft pink to lavender blooms. It is my hope that this article will entice you to try growing the Morden Mums! Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com, by email at growyourfuture@ gmail.com or on facebook@ orchidhort.
DEADLINE: Tuesday at 12:00 Noon
Place your Classified Advertisement by Phone, Fax, Mail or E-mail
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Reach the entire Province: $189.00 (49 weekly papers) Westman or Eastman regions: $119.00
St. Anthony Church Parish will hold a yearly service on Sunday, June 8, 1:00 p.m., with pot luck lunch to follow.
You are invited! Manitoba Highland Gathering - June 21 and 22, 2025 in East Selkirk, MB. Swords, Heavies, Paddling, Highland Dance, Pipes and Drums, Villages, Cars, Animals, Market and Food, Unicorns (Sunday only)! https:// manitobahighlandgathering.org
Expressive Dance with Crystal registration for fall classes and summer dance camp (July 7-11) opens on Monday, June 9, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Dance Studio in Minnedosa (102-3rd Ave. NW). Tap, Jazz/Hip Hop, Highland, Ballet, Celtic Irish, Contemporary, Bellydance, Theatrics, Itsy Bitsy Yoga, Charleston, Jigging, Stretch classes. Come in person, call, text or email for more information. A weekly fall schedule will be created after June 9 enrollment. Call Crystal at cell/studio 204-867-2446 or home 204-867-3561 or email: expressivedancewithcrystal@hotmail. com.
Bridal Shower to honour Jennifer Burton, bride-elect of Michael Luba, will be held on Sunday, June 22 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Sandy Lake Community Hall located on Main Street, Sandy Lake. Join us for an enjoyable afternoon of socializing and snacks.
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.
Need Class 1 drivers? Summer 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 newspaper 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
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.
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No discount for municipal or government ads • Ads not pre-paid by Thursday Noon are subject to a $2.50 billing charge
Forage Seed For Sale: Organic &
Conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd., 306-9219942.
Nice 20-acre retirement or subdividing opportunity 4 miles west of Brandon on paved road. 1,572 sq. ft. home including appliances,
wheelchair accessible, one-level, attached garage. Also, additional adjoining subdivided five-acre lot. Immediate possession, private sale. $750,000. Call 1-204-7230083 for appointment to view, anytime.
Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228 www.firstand secondmortgages.ca
Municipality of Harrison Park
Our 2024 “Field of Green” would not have been possible without the generous support of the following volunteers & donors.
We are so very grateful to everyone involved!!
The group effort of these incredible volunteers & donors helps our club to give back to our community.
Bradley Stebeleski
Darcy Woychyshyn
Gary Zurbyk
Tim & Jenna Shwaluk
Dan Shwaluk
Brian Dziver
Steven Dziver
Kevin & Crystal Stebeleski
Braden Drul
Turko Fertilizers Kominko Farms
LUD of Sandy Lake
The Municipality of Harrison Park is engaging a summer employee for the position of Village General Maintenance Worker for the LUD of Sandy Lake.
Duties include cutting & trimming grass in various locations, water/weed flowers, maintaining public washroom, installation of signs and other duties as assigned. A valid driver’s license is a must.
The successful candidate will be self-motivated and will have a demonstrated ability to work as a member of a team. Experience in operating and maintaining small machinery will be considered an asset.
The position is 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
For a detailed job description contact the undersigned.
Any persons interested are requested to submit a resume to the Municipal Office, no later than June 16, 2025, by 4:00 p.m.
Tamara Sellman, CMMA
Assistant CAO
Phone: 204-848-7614
Email: tamara@harrisonpark.ca
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in Prairie Mountain Health however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
OPENING JUNE 3
TUESDAY
