CINDY MURRAY/FOR SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
While the men in our lives tend to catch the brunt of the jokes once the “feathers” on the top of their heads begin to thin out, this beautiful bald eagle proves that bald is in. A symbol of strength, the large North American bird of prey sees its name “Bald” derived from an old English word (balde), meaning white.
Carolyn Arndt Branch Manager
2
March 20, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Candy Irwin, who contributed as a writer for the South Mountain Press for the last 16 years.
As word spreads of Candy’s passing, I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to recognize her immense contributions to the paper. Candy had her own unique brand of storytelling, one I found personally captivating. Her way with words knew just how to peak your interest and draw you into an article.
Candy touched the hearts of many with her beautiful way of expressing thoughts, and championing her community and those who live there. Not just a contributor, she truly excelled at her craft, having won numerous awards for her work at the Manitoba Community Newspaper Association awards.
As an important member of the South Mountain Press
family, every staff member that has worked alongside Candy over the years has such glowing things to say about her as a person and as a friend. This newspaper will greatly miss her hard work and talent, and I was always proud to be the place that got to feature her work. Our hearts go out to Candy’s husband Jim, and her family, for their loss.
On the date and at the time and location shown below, a PUBLIC HEARING will be held to receive representations from any persons who wish to make them in respect to the following matter:
MUNICIPALITY OF HARRISON PARK BY-LAW NO. 177
being a by-law to adopt a new Zoning By-law
HEARING Municipality of Harrison Park
LOCATION: Council Chambers at 43 Gateway Street Onanole, MB R0J 1N0
DATE & TIME: April 8, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.
GENERAL INTENT To adopt a new municipal wide zoning OF BY-LAW by-law.
NO. 177: This Zoning By-law regulates the use and development of land, including the size, height, and location of buildings and structures on properties within the municipality and shall be used and administered in accordance with the Municipality of Harrison Park Development Plan.
AREA AFFECTED: All areas of the Municipality of Harrison Park
FOR INFORMATION Robert Ewashko, Development Officer
CONTACT: Ph: 204-848-2561
E-mail: robert@harrisonpark.ca
A copy of the above proposed by-law and supporting material may be inspected in the office of the Municipality of Harrison Park at the above address during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Representations may be made either in person or in writing, at the public hearing.
Back row, from left: Michael Lamb (manager), Myles Beatty, Craig Atkinson (coach), Zachary Baron, Kaius Kroeker, Liam McVey, Kade Butler, Brody Marnock, Colton McCaughan, Reese Trotz, Trace Ewasiuk, Willem Yuel (coach), Matt Saler (coach).
Front row, from left: Parker Soltys, Seth Sulik, Aiden McGorman, Jager Atkinson, William Melvin, Riley Madill.
On March 7, the Manitoba RCMP’s West District Crime Reduction Unit obtained a search warrant at a residence in Erickson. The search warrant was issued after investigators determined the resident was in possession of firearms despite being legally prohibited from doing so. It was executed with the assistance of the Manitoba Integrated Law Enforcement Team West and Yellowhead RCMP. Officers found 12 firearms and roughly 2,000 rounds of ammunition at the residence.A 55-year-old Erickson male faces a number of charges, including unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm contrary to order and unsafe storage of firearms. RCMP continue to investigate, and more charges are anticipated. The suspect was released on an undertaking, with his first court appearance scheduled for May in Minnedosa.
On March 11, Swan River RCMP responded to a report of a home invasion that had occurred at a residence in the community, on 1stAvenue South. A couple, both in their mid-60s, were inside the home when they heard a knock on the front door. Before either could open, two suspects wearing masks – one male, one female – entered the home, with one of the suspects carrying a firearm, and pushed past one of the homeowners. The female suspect threatened to shoot the couple if they didn’t follow their instructions, stole the female homeowner’s wallet and some acetaminophen, then left. The homeowners were not seriously injured. A 41-year-old female suspect was subsequently apprehended by RCMP a short distance from the home. She faces charges of: Robbery
with a firearm; Breaking and entering; and Uttering threats. RCMP continue to search for the other suspect. The investigation continues.
On March 8, Selkirk RCMP responded to a report of a break-in and theft that occurred at a home along Highway 44 in the Rural Municipality of St. Clements. The incident is believed to have occurred at some point in the previous 48 hours while the homeowners were away. Various household and personal items were taken, including snowmobile gear and tools. Of note, the gun safe located within the home was unlocked during the theft, with 13 long guns taken from the residence. The firearms included: Two Remington 270 pump action shotguns; three 12-gauge pump action shotguns; a 20-gauge
pump action shotgun; three .22-bolt action rifles; two .22 semi-automatic rifles; and a 50 cal. Muzzle loader. Additionally, ammunition was taken from another area of the home.
On March 6, Gypsumville RCMP were searching for a person of interest on the Lake St. Martin First Nation. During the course of the investigation, officers attended a home in the community and found drugs inside the
residence – including a vacuum-sealed bag of what appeared to be cocaine, 10 small individual bags of crack cocaine, some drug paraphernalia, a handgun, ammunition and more than $1,300 in cash. The suspect was arrested, and the items seized. A 24-year-old male of Lake St. Martin First Nation has been charged with possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking. He was remanded into custody. The investigation continues.
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to subsection 162(2) of the Municipal Act, the Council of the Municipality of Clanwilliam Erickson intends to present its financial plan for the fiscal year 2026 at a public hearing.
WHERE: Municipal Office of Clanwilliam Erickson Council Chambers, Erickson, MB
WHEN: April 14, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
The public hearing will be streamed online via Zoom and participants will be able to make a representation or ask a question through this platform. The link to participate in the hearing, either online or by phone, will be posted on the municipal website at www.ericksonmb.ca
The purpose of the hearing is to allow any interested person to make a representation, ask questions or register an objection.
Copies of the financial plan are available for review. Questions and comments can be sent to the Chief Administrative Officer in advance of the public hearing to cao@ericksonmb.ca or Box 40, Erickson MB, R0J 0P0.
Friday, March 20, 2026
Letters to the editor: smpnews@mymts.net
Manitoba boasts a vibrant, diverse music scene spanning roots, rock, Indigenous, and classical genres, anchored in Winnipeg.
But we can’t forget that the province, also boasts a vibrant mix of genres of music past the perimeter including the Chabluk Family & friends, a young talented group of Ukrainian musicians, and a host of other individuals and groups, some past – some present.
Staying on the topic of Ukrainian music, one can’t forget Dennis Lischynski, an Ethelbert musician at the young age of 80. His band, the Parkland Pioneers, continue to celebrate the depth and strength of Ukrainian culture through music, as shared in the ‘Greatest Ukrainian Song of all Time’ contest put forth by radio host Brad Salyn. No doubt a number of local citizens tuned into The Zabava
Hour on CKJS 92.7 FM in Winnipeg on March 14 to listen to the Ukrainian music selected by fans.
Lischynski and the Parkand Pioneers, whose music has been highly respected for many, many years, saw three (Chervona Rozha Troika, Juba, Handzia) of the five songs entered selected. “Citing only a total of 30
selections were chosen from all entries, it was a very honorable mention for Lischynski and fellow Parkland boys,” stated Salyn. “With countless selections to choose from, many selections didn’t even make the grade.”
Rules of the contest saw fans selecting five of their favourite Ukrainian songs by the Ukrainian Canadian artist performing each song.
Parkland Pioneers’ music is still being played on Polka Parties, and Zabava Hours across Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. Listeners can enjoy their music any time by adding a selection of their CDs to your music collection.
The Zabava Hour with Brad Salyn is one of the longest running Ukrainian Canadian music programs in the world, showing a unique blend of traditional Ukrainian and modern Ukrainian
Canadian music in an hour long celebration of culture, heritage and good times. Tune in on Fridays from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Lviv is Winnipeg’s Ukrainian sister city. Winnipeg is a city that has deep connections to Ukraine, both as a result of immigration and its Sister City Friendship Agreement with Lviv that was established in 1973.
Fans and organizers of Rockin’ the Fields of Minnedosa (RFM) are fondly remembering Tommy DeCarlo, a main stage headliner back in 2022. DeCarlo, who performed with the classic rock band, Boston, for nearly 20 years, and on his own accord with son, guitarist Tommy DeCarlo Jr., has died at the age of 60.
With heavy hearts, his family shared news about his
passing on a Facebook post on March 9. The singer succumbed to a six-month battle with brain cancer.
DeCarlo said he first started listening to Boston –the 1970s rock band known for its instrumental overtures and hits including “More Than a Feeling,” “Don’t Look Back” and “Peace of Mind” –as a young teenager, according to the group’s website. The vocalist credited his love for Boston’s original frontman Brad Delp – who died by suicide exactly 19 years before DeCarlo’s passing – and his desire to sing along with him on the radio for helping to develop his own singing voice.
After Delp’s death in 2007, DeCarlo, then employed at a Home Depot, sent Boston covers as well as an original song in tribute to Delp to the Boston camp, hoping for a chance to participate in a
tribute show for the singer. They kindly turned down his offer. But eventually, Boston founder and lead songwriter Tom Scholz heard DeCarlo’s cover of “Don’t Look Back” and invited the singer to perform a few songs with the band at the tribute. That tribute show was DeCarlo’s first time ever performing with any band in front of a crowd, but it wouldn’t be his last, as RFM appreciated.
Performing and sharing music with all of his fans around the world was one of DeCarlo’s greatest joys of life. Boston founder Tom Scholz is remembering his late band mate and musical talent, as a top tier live performer and the reason for the classic rock band’s resurgence.
Until next week… No matter the genre, music brings connection.
By GAGE HAUBRICH
You can only cancel plans so many times before your friends stop believing you will ever show up.
Budget 2026 is likely Premier Wab Kinew’s last chance to make good on his promises to taxpayers before they start to feel they’ve been taken for a ride.
Kinew’s NDP campaigned making life more affordable for families and balancing the government’s books.
Three years later, Manitoba families are still feeling squeezed. Tax bills remain high. And the government is spending money it does not have.
After being elected, the government started on the right path on tax relief by cutting the provincial gas tax to zero.
But it took a wrong turn and hiked the tax back up by 89 percent a year later.
Kinew also hiked income taxes on Manitobans by bringing back bracket creep in last year’s budget.
Bracket creep is a sneaky tax hike that happens when the government stops indexing tax brackets to inflation. Inflation pushes taxpayers into higher tax brackets even though their pay cheques do not buy anything extra.
The government might point to its one-year hydro rate pause or its decision to freeze the price of one litre jugs of milk as examples of making life more affordable. But tinkering around the edges will not fix the afforda-
bility crisis.
A Manitoba family making $75,000 per year already has the highest provincial tax burden in Western Canada, Manitobans need serious tax relief that benefits every taxpayer.
To fix this, the government should first reverse its bracket creep income tax hike. Then it should go further and cut the Retail Sales Tax by one percentage point. That would bring the RST in line with Saskatchewan and save Manitoba families about $315 per year.
The next step is simple: the government must stop spending money it does not have.
The NDP’s campaign platform forecasted this year’s deficit to be $128.1 million. In the last budget, the government said it would be $794 million. Now the latest forecast puts it at $1.6 billion.
The government will likely blame this irresponsible borrowing on wildfires, healthcare costs, Manitoba Hydro income losses or tariffs.
Those excuses might carry some weight if the government tried to cut spending anywhere. But Kinew has not even tried.
Despite taking in $556 million less than budgeted in revenue this year, the government is also spending about $311 million more than it said it would.
That’s a recipe for fiscal disaster.
When a Manitoba family faces unexpected costs, they find savings in other parts of their budget to make up the difference. The government should be expected to do the same.
Every year the government
avoids fixing its spending problem means more debt and billions more wasted on interest payments.
And this failure has gone on for far too long. The Manitoba government increased the provincial debt by 64 percent since 2016. During that time, the government wasted about $18 billion on debt interest payments.
In fact, the debt has ballooned so much that about nine percent of the provincial budget is now spent just on interest payments. Debt interest is the government’s thirdlargest expense, only education and health care cost taxpayers more money every year.
That’s why the government needs a real plan to control spending so it can start paying down debt. Less debt means
less money wasted on debt interest payments and more room for tax relief. Kinew can start with a comprehensive spending review. The government can’t find savings if it isn’t looking.
Former prime minister Jean Chrétien’s government conducted a spending review in the 1990s and found $9.8 billion in spending reductions. The Newfoundland and Labrador government embarked on a similar spending review and found more than $860 million in savings in 2021. Kinew promised Manitobans a more affordable life and a balanced budget. Budget 2026 is the time to deliver on both.
Gage Haubrich is the Prairie Director for the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) is calling on Premier Wab Kinew to permanently cut the provincial gas tax as fuel prices jump across Manitoba.
“Kinew can give families a break today by cutting the gas tax,” said Gage Haubrich, CTF Prairie Director. “When prices at the pump jump, the government shouldn’t pile the cost of taxes on top.” The price of gasoline in Manitoba jumped by about 15 cents per litre since March 1.
The Manitoba government previously cut its provincial gas tax by 14 cents per litre for the entirety of 2024. The government hiked the gas tax to
12.5 cents per litre on Jan. 1, 2025.
A Manitoba family pays about $9 in the provincial gas tax every time they fill up a minivan and about $11 when they fill up a pick-up truck. Over the course of a year, that family will pay about $550 in gas taxes when filling up their vehicles once every two weeks.
The premier knows that lower gas prices make life more affordable.
“We have heard loud and clear from Manitobans that this has been something that has made a difference,” Kinew
Back row, from left: Chad Yanchycki
Josh
(coach), Andrew Dobson (coach). Third row, from left: Wyatt Dobson, Hayden Lepard, Bo McCurry, Kamden Betke, Skyline Huntinghawk, Lawson McKay. Second row, from left: Bob McKay-Burns, Jaxon Young-McKay,
Missing from photo: Blake Gabriel, Brody Baker, Emily Hickson
Front row, from left: Joey Norosky, Hunter Wozney, Willy Kamminga, Ryker Mitchell, Easton McKay, Rhett Lewandoski.
Missing from photo: Kari Dobson (manager).
204.759.3313
Toll Free 844.877.7767 gregnesbittmla@mymts.net #7 515 4th Avenue Burlington Place, Shoal Lake, MB
Friday, March 20, 2026
It was do or die for the Yellowhead Chiefs this week in the Winnipeg U15 AAA Hockey League playoffs.
The Chiefs were down two games to none against the Winnipeg Wild Red in the best of five consolation final as of press time on Monday.
Games three, and possibly four, were slated for Shoal Lake on March 17 and 19. Game five, if necessary, would be in Winnipeg on March 22.
The Wild Red held off a third-period rally by the Chiefs to record a 5-3 win in game two in Winnipeg on
Sunday, March 15. The hosts led 1-0 and 4-1 at the intermissions before the Chiefs scored twice early in the third to cut the margin to one. Despite pressure by the Chiefs, the Wild Red scored into an empty net with 32 seconds left to seal the win.
Winnipeg goal scorers were Lane Abraham, Charlie Rosenbal, Emery Smith, Andrew Abbott and Liam Meier. Wade Kulbacki, Cooper Soltys and Mason Stebeleski
were the Yellowhead marksmen.
Sienna Bennett earned the win in goal, making 23 saves. Darby Wilson stopped 34 shots for the Chiefs.
WILD RED 3 CHIEFS 2
Max Xing’s third period goal snapped a 2-2 tie and gave the Wild Red a 3-2 win in game one of the series in Winnipeg on Saturday, March 14.
Bentley Goulden got the Chiefs on the board early in the second period, but the Wild Red responded with goals off the sticks of Andrew Abbott and Davis Moore just over three minutes apart in
The Winnipeg Bruins earned a berth in the Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey final with a sweep of their best of five series with the Winnipeg Thrashers.
The Bruins, who finished first in the regular season standings, will face either the third place Brandon Wheat Kings or the second place Winnipeg Wild in the championship series.
The Wheat Kings won the first two games of their semifinal series 3-2 in double overtime and 3-1, but the Wild stayed alive with a 4-1 win in game three. Game four was slated for Brandon on March 16, with a possible game five in Winnipeg on March 18.
The number one and two teams in the regular season will face-off in the championship final in the Manitoba Female U18 AAA Hockey League.
After losing the first game, the pennant winning Winnipeg Ice came back with three straight wins to eliminate the Winnipeg Avros.
In the other semi-final, the Eastman Selects won their series with the Westman Wild-
cats three games to one. The best of five series was slated to begin in Winnipeg on March 18, with game two in Niverville on March 22.
The top two teams in the regular season will meet in the Manitoba Female U15 AAA Hockey League final. The Central Plains Capi-
the latter stages of the period.
Cooper Soltys sent the teams into the dressing room tied when he scored for the visitors with 22 seconds left.
Griffin Kraft earned the netminding win with a 30-save performance. Darby Wilson made 38 saves for Yellowhead.
The Brandon Wheat Kings will face the Eastman Selects in the championship final.
The regular season champion Wheat Kings needed the full five games to dispose of the Winnipeg Bruins Gold.
The Selects, meanwhile,
swept the Winnipeg Bruins Black.
Games one and two were slated for Brandon on March 17 and 19, with games three, and possibly four, in Landmark on March 21 and 22. Game five, if necessary, would be in Brandon on March 24.
tals, who finished first overall, will face the Eastman Selects for the title.
The Capitals swept the Yellowhead Chiefs in a pair of one-goal games, while the Selects needed three games to get past the stubborn Westman Wildcats.
No dates had been set for the final as of press time.
www.mbhabitat.ca/contact-us
The Minnedosa-Erickson Chancellors were eliminated from the playoffs after dropping a 7-4 decision to the Boissevain-DeloraineWaskada-Pierson Broncos in game three of their consolation semi-final series on Monday, March 16. The Broncos will now face Reston-MelitaWaskada-Hartney in the consolation final. A game recap will follow next week.
The Renegades scored a 52 win over the Virden Golden Bears in the deciding game of their best of three semi-final series.
ME 6 BDWP 0
Parker Soltys recorded the
shutout as the Chancellors evened the series at 1-1 with a 6-0 win over the Broncos in Minnedosa on Friday, March 13.
Aiden McGorman recorded a hat trick – opening the scoring and then adding the final two goals of the game. Single markers came off the sticks of Kaius Kroeker, Myles Beatty and Brody Marnock.
The hosts led 3-0 and 4-0 at the intermissions.
Soltys finished with 17 saves, while Broncos’ netminder Kingston Reimer stopped 16 shots.
The Dauphin Clippers and Vincent Massey Vikings will square off in the championship final.
The Clippers swept the Swan Valley Tigers 9-4 and 64, while the Vikings did the same to the Neepawa Tigers by scores of 6-1 and 7-2.
Game one was set for March 18 in Brandon, with game two in Dauphin on March 19. Game three, if necessary, would be played in Brandon on March 23.
Q: I need encouragement to lose weight and start taking better care of my heart health. Got any new info that might convince me to take some smart steps pronto? –Richie R., Fort Worth, TX
A: Losing weight and becoming heart-healthy does take commitment (even if you’re using a GLP-1 weightloss drug). But there’s a lot of new info that’s attention getting ... and inspiring.
The first is a study in Communication Medicine that found that being overweight increases your risk of developing 61 disabilitycausing and life-shortening diseases. And these diseases often team up – so a person has to contend with chronic kidney disease and heartstressing COPD or a trifecta of kidney disease and osteoarthritis and Type 2 diabetes, which is associated with heart woes.
And then there’s a cluster of studies that offer insights into how to take better care of your weight and your heart. One, in JACC, was a 30-plus year study of 200,000 folks that found that it’s the quality of the food you eat –not whether it’s lowcarbohydrate or low-fat – that protects heart health. Diets that are heavy in refined carbohydrates and animal products are associated with higher coronary heart disease risk from unhealthy blood pressure and elevated levels of glucose and LDL cholesterol. Stick with unprocessed foods, proteins from heart-loving sources, like salmon and legumes, and dodge added sugars and excess saturated fat.
Another study, by Northwestern Medicine, found that overweight and obese folks could improve blood pressure, heart rate and bloodsugar control if they don’t eat anything (and dim the lights) for three hours before going to sleep. And of course – one more time – a study in the American Journal of Medicine shows how important it is to your heart health to avoid ultra-processed foods. Folks who eat the most amount are at a 47% increased risk of cardiovascular disease, compared to those eating the least amount.
For help achieving your health goals, check out the AI coaching program (with yours truly) at 4YOUngevity.com.
Q: My 17-year-old son is smoking a lot of marijuana, and I don’t know what I can say to get him to cut down or stop. Help! – Cassy T. Los Angeles, CA
A: That is tough to do, I know, but you want to start from the point of view that you love him and want to
help him protect his shortand long-term health. You are not criticizing him; you are teaming up with him to help him accomplish his dreams for the future.
You can explain that the health risks from smoking marijuana aren’t just about how damaging it is to the lungs, even though research shows that smoking marijuana causes chronic bronchitis and can injure cells lining large airways, causing chronic cough and acute bronchitis.
Recent research also shows that it suppresses the
immune system. And in the still-developing teen brain, it can contribute to or cause difficulties with thinking and memory, reduce coordination (not good for athletes), and cause depression and anxiety.
A new study in JAMA Health Forum also reveals that it’s associated with an increased risk of psychotic and bipolar disorders. And about 30% of the time, frequent use leads to addiction.
You also want to recognize that teens who use drugs may be dealing with stress, anxiety and other psychological problems. Gently – very
gently – ask your son what he sees as negative things in his life or what negative feelings he has. He may be relieved to talk about it. If not, don’t press. Just try again some other time. You might also suggest other healthier habits that free the mind and body from stress, such as tai chi, yoga, meditation, vigorous aerobic exercise and strength training. Offer to check out the practices with him. They’ll do you great good, too!
For more help, offer him a copy of my books (and read them yourself), “You: Breath-
ing Easy” and “YOU: The Owner’s Manual for Teens.” Good luck and be persistent!
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.
Spring is on the way! Now is the time to take a moment to say – where is my garden going this season?
Space in the garden is always a challenge so this spring, I encourage you to “reach for the sky and go vertical!” You might be wondering what I mean by vertical gardening, which is simply exploiting the vertical space instead of relying on the horizontal which is the more traditional way to garden. Going vertical will give you more space but it is also a way to make your garden more attractive and more accessible. Imagine harvesting strawberries while standing straight up – instead of crawling along the ground. If you are an avid garden grazer, then vertical gardening has even more advantages. The fruit or vegetables that you harvest will be cleaner as they are not in direct contact with the ground. You will also find that you are losing less fruit/vegetables to moisture and rot again due to less contact directly with the soil. Air circulation is definitely better as well as any breeze will waft through those plants that are vertical. The only drawback to going vertical is you may have to water more often. However, perhaps it is the ideal time to install a simple irrigation system that suits your personal needs!
From the perspective of one who was rural and now is urban – adjusting to a much smaller space and still managing to grow everything desired is challenging. How do you make the best use of the space you have? One solution that is definitely worth trying is to go vertical. Any plant that is a sprawled, a natural climber or needs staking can easily be grown vertically – with the suitable support. Vertical elements can be utilized as working functions of the garden. They work well to screen unpleasant areas in the landscape; can provide shade or shelter from the wind; can soften stark vertical surfaces; can define
use areas in the garden and can provide movement. Looking outside right now to your garden space might help to encourage you to think about going vertical. If you think of the trees in your landscape, they are an element that is always visible. If you incorporate other vertical elements in your garden, then those too will always be visible in every season – from both inside and out. After all, enjoying the garden in winter, we most often enjoy the view from inside your home where it is warm. Thus, elements need to be more prominent as they are not viewed in close quarters.
Think about incorporating some structure that has beauty itself. Ensure that the structure is suitable for the plant material it supports. Some easy plants to use for your vertical garden include: cucumbers, sweet peas, tomatoes, melons, peas, pole beans, black-eyed Susan vine, morning glory climbing snapdragons, hyacinth bean, nasturtium, passion flower, grapes, Virginia creeper, hops, and more!!! Just ensure that you supply the suitable structure and remember that some plants need to be tied to the structure while others entwine themselves to the support. So, this season... look ahead and plan to go vertical!
Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www. orchidhort.com; email at growyourfuture@gmail.comor on facebook @orchidhort.
Friday, March 20, 2026
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CHEMERIKA: We are saddened to announce the peaceful passing of the patriarch of our family, William Chemerika or Willie as he was known by most, on March 11, 2026 at the age of 95. He was the beloved husband of Josie for more than 68 years and loving father to Jan (Leo), predeceased by Rick (Anne), Laurie (Chuck), Madelene (Ken), Wendell and Michelle. Willie has been reunited in heaven with his wife and son. He will forever be remembered by his grandchildren Shayla (Jeff), Jennifer (Terry), Eric (Melissa), Michael (Morgann), Cody, Nicole (Travis), Tanner (Carisa), Katrina (Logan), Alyssa (Brendan), Rachel and Alexis. Willie will be missed by his great grandchildren, Gemma, Kiera, Eastyn, Lincoln, Isla, Charlotte, Max and Bentley. Willie was born Dec. 14, 1930 on Mountain Road, MB. He attended Lund School, but quit at an early age to help out on the family farm. In 1953 Willie went to Winnipeg to try city life and after a short time he then returned to the family farm. Willie spent most of his life farming on Mountain Road where he and Josie made their living raising commercial and purebred cattle, as well as running a bit of mixed grain operation. They farmed together for 35 years before moving to Neepawa in 1992. It was a life that reflected his strong work ethic and resilience. Even after retiring from farming, he remained active and engaged in the community he loved. Willie served as a cantor for 45 years at Mountain Road and Neepawa Ukrainian Church. His dedication to his faith and community was an important part of his life. In retirement, Willie enjoyed travelling with his wife Josie, taking many bus trips across North America. He also enjoyed
bowling for many years and spending his winters ice fishing. Willie was a true people person. After moving to town, he quickly became a familiar face in the community. Most afternoons you could find him enjoying coffee and conversation with friends at McDonald’s, and on Sunday mornings he rarely missed breakfast at Chicken Chef. Above all, Willie loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Though he carried the appearance of a weathered prairie farmer, those who knew him well knew he had a heart of gold. Willie will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Willie’s family would like to take a moment to thank the homecare people, his wonderful neighbours and all who may have helped him in these last years. We appreciate the love and care you showed our beloved Willie. A Funeral Mass was held on Monday, March 16, 2026 at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church in Neepawa, MB with interment taking place at Riverside Cemetery, Neepawa. White’s Funeral Home in care of arrangements. www.whitesfh.ca.
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.
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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Nov. 7, 1951 – Feb. 25, 2026
On Feb. 25, 2026, Candy Louise Irwin (Frederickson) passed away at home after a long debilitating struggle with a rare autoimmune disease. Candy is survived by her husband, Jim; step children, Jennifer Pejic (Sasha) of Medicine Hat, AB, Jay Irwin (Joanna) of Vancouver, BC, Cody Irwin (Laura) of Vancouver, BC; grandchildren, Charlie, Emily, August, Clark and Ivy; and beloved rescue doggos, Mocha, Sunny and Paddy; cousins Wendy Richards (Dennis), Cathy Cash (Bill) and Larry O’Dell; her dear aunts, Winona Ramage and Caroline Bunner; and many loved cousins and extended family members.
Born in Toronto, ON on Nov. 7, 1951 to the late Gaye and Chris Frederickson, Candy’s family moved to Winnipeg, MB when she was a baby. She had one brother, Randy, who predeceased her.
Candy started her work life in Winnipeg as a secretary before pursuing a teaching degree from the University of Manitoba. Following that, Candy enjoyed a successful career as a trainer for Credit Union Central in Winnipeg. It was during those days, she met and enjoyed a special long lasting friendship to this day with her beloved friends Sian Evans, Pam Scott, Jane Romaniuk and Debbie Henzie.
Life changed significantly when she met her husband Jim at Riding Mountain Guest Ranch during a cross country skiing weekend. Jim and Candy married on Oct. 11, 1992 and her adventures at the ranch began. First with housing guests, horseback trail riding and hayrides followed by an international ecotourism business offering wildlife viewing and photography. Her love of animals flourished there where she loved having horses, miniature donkeys, goats, ducks, chickens, rescued baby raccoons, wild ducks and geese, including her beloved Billy the rescued whitetail deer, her many household cats and dogs and the occasional critter that would land in her yard needing help. Every one of those animals were named and cared for. Even her egg laying chickens had names, Poachie, Omelette, Frittata, and Quiche!
Candy’s love of children shone
through in her life. When the grandchildren visited, she would go to great efforts to plan treasure hunts and games. Her grandchildren were one of her greatest joys. She treasured their drawings which were posted throughout her bedroom. She enjoyed substitute teaching in Onanole and Erickson and interacting with the children. Writing for the South Mountain Press was a passion of hers. Her published ranch cookbook was enjoyed by many. If you would like to read some of her articles they are still available at: www.manitobacoop erator.ca/contributor/candy irwin/ Her sense of humour, kindness, community involvement and friendship were extraordinary and will be missed.
There will be no public funeral service at Candy’s request but in mid May there will be a come and go ‘Celebration of Life’ for Candy in the Lake Audy/ Crawford Park area. Please email Jim at jimirwin@ridingmountain.ca , if you wish to be informed of the date and place.
The family would like to thank the nursing staff at Minnedosa Health Centre for their care, friend John Robinson for going above and beyond with assisting Jim with Candy’s care at home, Candy’s close friend Caroline Sopuck for her amazing support and assistance; Shanna Morrison of ‘Services to Seniors’ in Erickson, Mary Nichols of ‘Erickson and Area Palliative Care’ and Kara Flamond of ‘Palliative Home Care’ and the many members of Prairie Mountain Health Home Care that assisted her.
Donations in memory of Candy can be made to Parkland Humane Society (Dauphin), Funds for Furry Friends, Spirit of Hope, Black Bear Rescue Manitoba (Stonewall), Crawford Park Hall or a charity of your choice.
A digital copy of the obituary with pictures and videos and active links is posted on www.ethicaldeathcare.com. Jim composed a number of heartfelt musical melodies during his first years with his beloved Candy reflecting his deep love for her, which are posted on YouTube at www.youtube.com/user/ mountainmelodies/videos. Candy’s Song is at www.youtube.com/watch?v= nC8g1bRKAcM
Council of the Municipality of Clanwilliam-Erickson (MCE) came together for a special meeting on March 2, regarding a proposal being received from a community member offering to spearhead a fundraising effort towards the installation of a cement floor in the Erickson & District Skating Arena.
Supportive of this initiative in principle, council authorized the Municipality to issue charitable tax receipts for the project, and dedicate staff time to facilitate its success.
Feb.19 SpecialMeeting
Council met for a special meeting on Feb. 19 regarding Fire Department UTV purchase.
Using grant funds and donations, council authorized the purchase of a UTV for Clanwilliam-Erickson Fire Rescue in 2025. Citing the Clanwilliam-Erickson Fire Rescue has now taken delivery of the UTV, council authorized the payment of $58,990.63 for the purchase of the UTV.
Feb.11 Regular Meeting
Council of the MCE met with two delegations at the Feb. 11 regular meeting with discussion focusing on the Mobile Home Park and the Erickson & District Heritage Society.
Gordon Allen reported to council on the following: The tenants in the Mobile Home Park were informed that there would be a mobile home license fee increase of $15 per month following second reading of By-law No.10525. The increase at third reading of the license fees bylaw was higher than the proposed increase at second reading; Mr. Allen objects to the increase that was given
at third reading, and requests that it be revised to an increase of $15/month.
Laurence Bertram introduced the Erickson & District Heritage Society. The Heritage Society would like to have businesses on Main Street purchase a heritage sign to be attached to the façade next to the entrance door of each building, showing historic ownership and use of each building on Main Street. He also asked for the Municipality’s permission to use the municipal logo for the signs, and for the Municipality to purchase a sign for approximately $75.
Council approved the agreement to build and maintain a turnaround on Otter Lake Development Corporation property at the east end of Lakeview Road.
With the Municipality of Harrison Park formally withdrawing from South Mountain Waste Management Group (SMWMG) effective Dec. 31, 2025, council is aware and supportive of the payment from SMWMG to the MHP, of one-third of the entity’s bank balance as of Dec. 31, 2025 – that sum of money being $16,671.14.
Council updated Schedule B to Garbage Collection ByLaw No. 98-25.
Overdue accounts totaling $9,301.76 plus interest will be added to the respective property tax accounts.
Three bids were received from qualified companies, as solicited, for supplying and spreading crushed traffic gravel in 2026. Council awarded the contract with Ken Beatty Construction.
With the 12-week pilot curbside blue bag recycling pickup program in Erickson ending on Feb. 18, it appeared the program was reducing garbage being picked
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up and taken to the transfer station. Council was in favour to continue with the pilot program for additional 12 weeks, allowing the community impact to be evaluated further.
Council was in favour of the Erickson & District Heritage Society to use the municipal logo on heritage signs to be attached to Main Street buildings.
The CAO advised council on a number of matters including the MARR regarding changes to blue box recycling; sewer backup and repair on Railway Avenue; and Tax Installment Payment Plan implementation process.
With the absence of Mayor Ian Drul, Deputy Mayor Jeremy Andreychuk ran the Feb. 25 meeting of the Council of the Municipality of Harrison Park (MHP), at which year 3 (2026) work authorization as approved with Pier Solutions as part of the five-year bridge maintenance plan.
Council accepted the offer from Prairie Liquid Feeds (Manitoba) Lt. at a rate of $0.365 per liter plus applicable taxes, to deliver and supply calcium chloride dust control for the summer of 2026.
Council confirmed the appointment of citizens, representing the MHP on the following committees: Kailey Ewanyshyn – Upper Little Saskatchewan River Conservation District; Val McKelvy –Minnedosa Regional Health Foundation.
Steve Dobson and Lynne Gustafson, representing the Erickson Curling Club, made
representation to council regarding funding for a new ice plant.
Hearing back from Community and Regional Planning, the report to council for Subdivision Application No. 4609-25-8575 (Campbell) by Resolution No. 2026/036, stated Condition 1 should be rescinded. Condition 1 read –A Variation Order being obtained for the garage in Proposed Lot 1, decreasing the side yard distance of the garage from 12’ to 3.6’within the “R” Residential zone as necessary to ensure compliance with the Zoning By-law. Councillor Campbell left the meeting prior to this matter being dealt with.
In regards to Douglas & Judith Marvin, Allan & Janice Meadows, Lynda & Larrie Kidd, Jon & Twylla Burton, applicants and owners, making application to subdivide part or SE 24-19-19 W, Lot 1, Block 2, Plan 7062, as filed under Community
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Planning Services File No. 4609-25-8799, council reviewed the various comments from government departments, agencies, and crown corporations. The application was approved subject to: 1). A Zoning By-law amendment be obtained, rezoning all portions of current title area from “CG” Commercial General Zone to “RG” Residential Zone. 2). A variance order be obtained reducing the site area for each of the proposed lots (Lot 1, 2, 3 and 4) from the required 15,000 sq. ft. to 10,889.85 sq. ft. as necessary to ensure compliance with the Zoning By-law. 3). A variance order be obtained reducing the site width for each of the proposed lots (Lot 1, 2, 3 and 4) from the required 100 ft. to 82.5 ft. as necessary to ensure compliance with the Zoning By-law. First readings were given to By-Law No. 179, a by-law to amend the R.M. of Harrison Zonig By-Law No. 1381,
tion, See www.mcna.com under the ‘Types of Advertising’ tab for more details.
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Friday, March 20, 2026 11
and to By-Law No. 168, a bylaw to amend the MHP Development Plan By-Law No. 138.
Councillor Skolney raised concerns regarding the municipal tendering and procurement process related to the Sandy Lake Garbage & Recycling RFQ.
Council reviewed the 2025 Year in Review information provided by the Onanole Fire Department and the Harrison Park Fire Department.
Maintenance Worker Assistant 40 hours per week • Monday to Friday (alternate Fridays off work) (8 weeks - July 6 to Aug. 28, 2026)
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Positions are based at division offices in Minnedosa, MB For more details and application information, please visit our website at www.rrsd.mb.ca select Employment then Summer Student Positions.
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I have come to the realization that humans love to count things. For example, many people love to count birds through citizen science programs such as Project Feederwatch or the Christmas Bird Count.
Other species, such as fur-bearers, are best counted from the ground during the winter by counting their tracks. Black bears are difficult to count but the development of DNA testing of hair or poop samples, and the wide-scale use of trail cameras can help establish population estimates.
Counting things, though, can get complicated, especially when it’s a highly valued species. I’m thinking in this case of elk and moose where it’s very rare for everyone to agree with survey results.
And to be honest, this is to be expected, because no matter how surveys are done, there are always animals that go uncounted.
Wildlife managers know that the counts they conduct are never 100 percent accurate, but the hope is that when these surveys are done consistently year after year, the impact of errors is reduced.
This is why managers
usually take the data from a single year’s count with a grain of salt, and why they prefer to use a three- or fiveyear average of the count data, as it evens out the results.
Another way to reduce errors is to try to keep as many of the variables the same from year to year. For example, in Riding Mountain National Park (RMNP), the surveys, conducted by air, follow routes that have remained the same for decades. The flights are also conducted at the same height and speed, flying about 100 meters above the ground at a constant speed of 100 kilometres per hour. Even keeping an aerial
survey crew, the same from one year to the next can help, as an experienced team learns to work together to get the most accurate count possible. In most cases, the crew is made up of the pilot, a data recorder, and two observers in the back. Each observer surveys a width of approximately 300 meters on the left or right side of the aircraft, while the pilot and the recorder, sitting in the front, will count any animals directly in front of the aircraft that the observers might otherwise miss.
Surveys are conducted in the winter, when snow on the ground ensures that dark-bodied elk, moose, and deer all stand out. In RMNP, they are done after the hunting season to ensure that surveying doesn’t impact the hunt, but also to ensure that the survey results account for hunting success.
Despite best efforts, not all the conditions remain the same from year to year. Surveys can be impacted by environmental conditions that you might not expect. Strong winds make it hard to survey as the aircraft bounces around, and hoar frost on the trees can obscure the view.
Sunny conditions creating dark shadows means that some animals are missed, while cloudy weather can make animals “pop” out to the eye, making them easier to count. And very cold weather means that other animals are missed as they retreat to areas under conifers where the overhead cover provides warmth and protection from the wind.
Technological changes have also meant that surveys have changed over the years. Originally, pilots balanced paper copies of maps of the park on their laps, with survey lines drawn in by pencil. The pilot’s role was to follow the survey line using landmarks on the landscape below, a difficult task when the wind was blowing or when the area below lacked notable features.
The observations were marked on a second set of maps by the recorder, sitting beside the pilot. You needed a strong stomach to be constantly looking at the map and data sheet, recording the number of animals spotted by the observers.
In the 1990s, the survey lines were integrated into
GPS units. The pilots could now follow the digitized lines with the hope that the batteries would last for the duration of the flight. Laptops were introduced in the late 1990s, and today computer tablets are used to record the species data and location on the park map.
More recently, surveying by helicopter has become more common. It’s safer, as flying in airplanes is one of the most dangerous activities that biologists engage in. As noted above, surveying requires you to fly relatively low, relatively slow, and can require tight turns, especially if you need to go back to re-count larger groups.
These conditions mean that you need an experienced airplane pilot, one who isn’t willing to take unnecessary risks and knows the terrain well. RMNP was fortunate to be able to call on the services of Patty and Bob Simpson from Dauphin, who more than exemplified these traits. However, other areas aren’t so lucky, and 30 years ago it wasn’t unusual for at least one survey crew to be injured or killed in a plane crash somewhere in North America each year.
What does the future hold? I suspect that aerial surveys will become more automated. Drones are already being used to fly survey routes in some areas. However, these drones aren’t the small, multi-bladed helicopter-like drones that you might be familiar with. Instead, survey drones are fixed wing like an airplane and are relatively large. They are able to cover large distances and can carry both normal and thermal-imaging cameras, meaning they are able to detect body heat from animals. The data is reviewed by technicians who have the luxury of time and sitting in a warm office to conduct the count. Even analyzing data will likely be assisted by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the future.
Like most things in life, the art and science of wildlife surveying has changed. Will future technology make it more accurate? Only time will tell.
Ken Kingdon lives in the heart of the Riding Mountain Biosphere Reserve. Send him a text at 204.848.5020 if you have stories to share.