Backed by the slogan “We Move Anything”, Minty’s Moving Ltd. has not only served the Onanole area, but as the need grew, focused on much larger structures of various shapes and sizes across Manitoba, with moves have been accommodated in Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Over the past few weeks, a crew focused on preparation and the move off-site of the old motel building at Buffalo Resort in Wasagaming, after cutting it into two sections.
Tax assistance offered across
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
South Mountain Press
The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program is well underway across the region, as many locations are offering free tax filing assistance to low-income individuals.
This initiative, a collaboration between local community organizations and the Canada Revenue Agency, is set to help seniors, newcomers, students, and other eligible residents’ access vital benefits by ensuring their tax returns are accurately completed.
According to Prairie Mountain Health, “income and health are directly related, and better income can lead to better health, education, and well-being.” Highlighting
the importance of completing a tax return, filing accurately will maintain access to benefits such as GST refunds, Canada Child Benefit, MB Rent Assist, Disability Tax Credits, and Pharmacare deductibles.
Residents are eligible for this free service if their income falls below specified thresholds: under $35,000 for individuals, under
$45,000 for two-person households, with an additional $2,500 for each dependent.
AREA LOCATIONS INCLUDE:
•Birtle Services for Seniors –Until May 2 – 63 Main Street, Birtle •Erickson Primary Care Clinic –Until Oct. 30 – 60 Queen Elizabeth Road, Erickson •Hamiota Health Centre – Until
Locations available across the region
Municipality of Clanwilliam Erickson
2025 FINANCIAL PLAN
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 2025 at a public hearing.
WHERE: Municipal Office of Clanwilliam Erickson Council Chambers, Erickson, MB
WHEN: April 24, 2025 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.
EAGLES SOAR AT ECI
Committed to excellence, the mission of the Erickson Collegiate –
through shared responsibility in a safe supportive environment for all
Staff and students are eagerly anticipating the final buzzer
deserved rest from the hallways and classrooms of the
River School Division was formed.
the Eagles
PUMPED UP TO DONATE
The act of donating blood for the first time through Canadian Blood Services was a simple and
meanin gful experience
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
South Mountain Press
Did you know that over half of Canadians will require blood or blood products in their lifetime?
I recently had the experience of donating blood for the first time through Canadian Blood Services (CBS), and I can’t emphasize enough how simple but meaningful it was. Honestly, I was surprised by how little time it took – only about 45 minutes in total, with the actual collection lasting around 12 minutes. Yet, in that short time, I felt like I was part of something much bigger… a life-saving mission.
Before my visit, I knew that blood donations were important, but I hadn’t fully understood the impact it could have. During the process, I learned that blood donations are critical for treating a wide range of medical conditions, including trauma victims, blood conditions, various surgeries, and organ transplants, complications during pregnancy, cancer patients, and the list goes on and on. And… one donation can even work to save up to three lives. The fact that my small effort could actually help save someone’s life or assist in their recovery was both awesome and inspiring… why haven’t I donated before?
Canadian Blood Services collects about 850,000 donations each year and provides
nearly a million blood components to over 700 hospitals across Canada. Yet, I was surprised to discover that while about 17.5 million Canadians are eligible to donate, only about two percent actually do. That means there’s a significant need for more people to step up and give. But because of the low donor numbers, the system is struggling to meet the demand for blood. Just recently, CBS announced that Canada is facing a startling blood shortage. New donors are needed to keep up supply.
Unfortunately, across our region, there aren’t many donation sites available. Donating is definitely easy, but for some the distance is an unfortunate barrier. Winnipeg offers a permanent donor site, however, popup locations like Brandon are offered throughout every month as well.
When I arrived at the Brandon Mobile Donor Centre, the staff greeted me and walked me through the process. They were dedicated to their work and to the donors. It was supportive to see how much they cared. After it was all said and done, I was able to donate 495 mL of blood that day!
They explained that once I donated, my blood would go through a complex journey, from processing to testing, and eventually to hospitals where patients are in need. After the donation, I found it
fascinating how quickly blood is processed. The behind-the-scenes look made me appreciate the entire operation even more.
The logistics behind blood donation are almost like a well-oiled machine. Within 24 to 48 hours of my donation, the blood would be separated into red blood cells, plasma, and platelets.
When blood arrives at the processing centre, it embarks on an intricate journey that ensures it’s ready to be used. First, it’s matched with a unique code and goes through extensive testing to check for any infections or diseases. This testing phase is essential to make sure that every droplet of blood that reaches a patient is safe and sound.
Once it’s given the allclear, the blood is spun really fast in a machine, much like a super high-speed blender, to separate it into different parts – the red
blood cells, plasma, and platelets. Each of these components plays a unique role in healthcare. Imagine red blood cells as tiny oxygen carriers that travel through your body, plasma as the healing potion helping blood clot, and platelets as the band-aid to help stop bleeding. The red blood cells are cooled in special fridges to keep them fresh, while plasma might be frozen to last longer or turned into medicine. This process means that every donation can provide a lifeline in various medical situations. Once complete, drivers transport needed blood to hospitals, ensuring it reaches its destination quickly, especially in urgent situations like organ transplants or trauma cases. Often, the urgency is unexpected, so staff work around the clock to meet the needs of hospitals that require immediate blood supply.
After 48 hours, I was informed that my blood was tested and is good to be on its way to helping where it’s needed. I also learned that I am O+, and along with O-, these two types are high in demand.
For anyone thinking about donating, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s easy, quick, and the impact of your donation will be lifechanging. Plus, if you’re nervous or unsure, the staff at donation centres are incredibly supportive and will guide you through every step of the process.
If you’re interested in becoming a blood donor, the basic criteria includes having overall good health, be over the age of 17, and have a weight of 110 pounds or more. You can take a quick eligibility quiz online to see
if you qualify. Then, you can find the nearest donation centre and schedule an appointment.
Did you know that it only takes an approximate 24 to 48 hours for your body to replace the plasma its lost during your donation? And about two to four weeks to replenish your red blood cells. Only days for you, but that could mean a lifetime for someone else.
Returning as a donor, males must wait 56 days to donate again, and 84 days for females. You bet I’m already booked for my next appointment in May!
The next time you’re looking for a way to make a difference, just remember that donating blood is not only a simple act, but an impactful one too. You could be someone’s lifeline…
MFNPS execute search warrant in Wayway
On March 14, the Manitoba First Nations Police Service (MFNPS) executed a search warrant on Shingoose Road in Waywayseecappo First Nation in connection with a drug investigation.
MFNPS detachment officers, with the assistance of the MFNPS Criminal Investigations Unit and MFNPS K9, executed a search warrant at a local residence resulting in a seizure of approximately 108 grams of suspected cocaine. Other items related to drug trafficking were also seized in the residence.
Police have laid the following charges because of this investigation. A 65-year-old male of Waywayseecappo First Nationwas charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking. A 29-year-old male of Waywayseecappo First Nationwas also charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking. Both have been remanded into custody.
On March 13, Pembina Valley RCMP were dispatched to a fire inside a church on 2nd Street SW in Carman.
When officers arrived, Carman Fire and Emergency Medical Services were already on scene. Firefighters were not able to enter the building as the floor had already collapsed into the basement.
There was no one inside the building at the time, and there were no injuries.
As the fire is deemed suspicious. The RCMP and the Office of the Fire Commissioner continue to investigate.
On March 13, Gypsumville RCMP responded to a call of a reported home invasion in the community of Lake St. Martin First Nation.
When officers arrived on scene, they were advised by the residents, 2 males and 1 female, that three males entered the home with firearms demanding wallets and anything else of value inside the residence. One of the suspects discharged their firearm during the incident killing a dog that was inside the home. There were no other injuries.
The suspects fled with undisclosed items before officers arrived. After further investigation, the victims were able to identify the three suspects, and as such, RCMP have issued Warrants of Arrest for the following: a 23-year-old
male, and a 33-year-old male, both from Lake St. Martin, and a 26-year-old male, from Winnipeg.
On March 11, Dauphin RCMP conducted a wellbeing check at an address on 6th Avenue NE, in the town of Dauphin.
When officers arrived on
scene, they located a 29-yearold male who was seriously injured and advised he was being held against his will. Six other occupants inside the residence, 5 males and 1 female, were arrested without incident.
NOTICE
The victim was taken by EMS to hospital and treated for his injuries.
After further investigation by Dauphin RCMP along with Manitoba West District Crime Reduction Enforcement Support Team (CREST), a search warrant was executed at the residence. Officers seized over 78 grams of methamphetamine, 8 grams of cocaine, multiple firearms, and Canadian currency.
The following suspects were arrested and charged
with numerous Weapons and Trafficking offences: a 30-yearold male from Dauphin, a 24year-old male from Dauphin; a 36-year-old female from Dauphin; a 37-year-old male from Dauphin; a 26-year-old female from Shortdale Valley River First Nation; a 31-year-old female from Ebb and Flow First Nation; and a 33-year-old male from Ebb and Flow First Nation. All suspects were remanded into custody. The investigation continues.
OF PUBLIC HEARING
BY THE MUNICIPAL BOARD OF MANITOBA
RE: MUNICIPALITY OF HARRISON PARK – BY-LAW NO. 142 (MUNICIPAL BOARD FILE NO. 25E8-0003)
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given, under the provisions of The Municipal Act, S.M. 1996, c.58 and The Municipal Board Act, R.S.M. 1987, c.M240, that The Municipal Board will hold a public hearing for the purpose of hearing any presentations in objection to or in support of the proposed By-law regarding the following matter:
By-law No. 142 proposes to authorize the expenditure and borrowing of money for the installation of water main extension along Deer Road, Aspen Place, Wildwood Bay, Evergreen Place, Beaver Glen Place, Tamarack Bay, Valleyview Street, and PTH 10 from Deer Road to Timothy Road in the community of Onanole as a Local Improvement under Plan No. 1-2024, at an estimated cost of $900,909.
The public hearing will take place on Friday, April 25, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. at the Onanole Rec. Centre, 386 Central Road, Onanole, Manitoba.
A copy of the By-law is available for viewing at the Municipal Office. The Rules regarding the procedure to be followed at the hearing can be found on The Municipal Board website under Hearing Procedures at https://www.gov.mb.ca/mr/municipal_board/hearings/index.html.
In addition, the Board requires that any person who intends to submit as evidence at the hearing any written material or other documents, shall file four (4) copies of that material with the Board and one (1) copy with the Municipality for public review, at least 10 working days prior to the hearing.
If a person wishes to have service in French, or requires an accommodation, they must notify this office 15 days prior to the hearing.
Dated at Onanole, in Manitoba, this 18th day of March, 2025.
Erin Wills Chad Davies
Secretary/Chief Administrative Officer
Chief Administrative Officer
The Municipal Board Municipality of Harrison Park 1144 - 363 Broadway 43 Gateway Street, P.O. Box 190 Winnipeg, MB R3C 3N9 Onanole, MB R0J 1N0
South Mountain Press
A VERY UNIQUE VISITOR
Orphaned calf ‘Cupcake’ delights residents and warms hearts during visit to Minnedosa Personal Care Home
DONALD BERGER
South Mountain Press
Residents at the Minnedosa Personal Care Home (PCH) received an unexpected but heartwarming visitor recently – a five-dayold orphaned Red Angus heifer calf affectionately named Cupcake.
KayDee Pass, a staff member at the care home who farms west of Minnedosa with her husband, brought the calf in to brighten the day of the residents. Cupcake was orphaned after being rejected by her first-time calving mother during a particularly cold and miserable night. Despite attempts to get another cow to adopt her, Cupcake found herself bottle-fed and looking for affection.
“Feeling sorry for her, I started saying ‘poor Cupcake,’ and the name just stuck,” shared Pass, who decided that Cupcake’s gentle nature would be perfect for an unconventional pet therapy visit.
With help from her sisterin-law, Jocelyn Graham, Pass managed to wrangle Cupcake, weighing around 100 pounds, into the back seat of her truck. Arriving fashionably late, the pair found the residents already gathered and eagerly awaiting the special guest.
The calf’s lunchtime was cleverly timed with the visit, allowing residents to participate by bottle-feeding Cupcake milk replacer sourced locally from Minnagro.
“There were a lot of sparkly eyed smiles while residents fed Cupcake and shared memories of farming and raising livestock, ... and a bit of calf drool to clean up,” said Pass. “They asked many questions about Cupcake, admired her softness, and couldn’t resist commenting on how cute she was.”
The visit also had its humorous moments.
“Cupcake inevitably needed a bathroom break, so Jocelyn and I quickly guided her into the nearest washroom,” Pass recounted. “Just as we opened the door into the main hallway, a passing resident looked on in disbelief and exclaimed, ‘Is that a cow in the bathroom?!’ It’s certainly not something you see every day!”
The calf’s charm extended even further as Pass and Graham took Cupcake to visit residents unable to
join the main gathering. Wayne, a resident who hadn’t seen a cow in 40 years, found the experience particularly moving, recalling fond memories of cattle from his past. Wayne even affectionately dubbed Cupcake a “therapy cow.” And told stories of how he had not even seen a cow in 40 years and how Cupcake brought back happy memories of raising cattle with his family.
Pass mentioned that Cupcake is thriving and growing quickly like a bad weed, humorously noting she’ll soon need a trailer rather than the backseat of a truck for any future visits. With baby goats, horses, and lambs expected soon on their farm, Pass hinted that future animal visits might just become a regular event.
Reflecting on the joy that animals bring, Pass shared a favourite quote from Winston Churchill. “There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man,” adding warmly that, in her experience, animals have a way of healing hearts and lifting spirits.
Like Ferdinand, the young, gentle bull who preferred peace over fighting,
Cupcake has won hearts with her gentle and affectionate nature. Or perhaps she’s more like Elsie, the friendly dairy cow who became an icon for warmth and joy – either way, Cupcake, the new PCH mascot, certainly left a lasting, lovely impression.
a.m.
The staff, management and Board of Directors of Compass Credit Union would like to invite friends, past & present colleagues and members to join us on Thursday, March 27, 2025 for a come and go celebration to congratulate Maryann Kologinski, Loans Manager on her retirement after a career spanning 38 years with the Credit Union. Please join us for coffee & treats!
Congratulations on your retirement and enjoy every minute of it!
Cupcake’s presence brought smiles to the face of all those she met during her visit to the Minnedosa PCH
KayDee Pass and Cupcake
U15 females eliminated
The Yellowhead Chiefs have been eliminated from the Manitoba U15 Female AAA Hockey League playoffs, falling in two straight games in their best of three semifinal series against the Eastman Selects. The Selects now await their opponent for the league final series.
The first place Pembina Valley Hawks will take on the Central Plains Capitals in game three of their semi-final series on Friday, March 21 to determine who will advance.
The Capitals scored an overtime win in game two to force the deciding game.
EASTMAN 6 CHIEFS 2
Isabelle Theroux scored three goals, including the game winner, as the Selects recorded a 6-2 win in game two of the series in Shoal Lake on Sunday, March 16.
The teams were tied 2-2 when Theroux broke the deadlock with just over five
minutes to go in the second. The Selects scored three unanswered third period goals to put the game away. Emilie Carriere had a pair of goals for the visitors, with Callie Coulombe notching a single.
Haley Chipelski and Addison Luhowy tallied for the Chiefs.
Pyper Rapley made 20 saves in the Yellowhead net.
EASTMAN 5 CHIEFS 2
Samantha Dallas scored two goals, including the game winner, as the Selects scored a 5-2 win in game one of the series in Ste. Agathe on Friday, March 14. Summer Wray, Emilie Carriere and Bryelle Muntain added singles for the Selects, who held period leads of 2-0 and 3-2.
Haley Chipelski and Hadley Bryant were the Yellowhead goal scorers. Evangeline Golding
Haley Chipelski scored in both games for Yellowhead
BY DARRELL NESBITT SOUTH MOUNTAI N PRESS
earned the win in goal with an 18-save performance. Madison Fleury was tagged with the loss.
U15 Chiefs fall to Central Plains
The Yellowhead Chiefs put up a valiant fight but bowed out of their Winnipeg U15 AAA Hockey League consolation side semi-finals in two straight games to the Central Plains Capitals.
The Capitals will now face the Winnipeg Thrashers White in the consolation final series. The Thrashers White needed three games to dispose of their crosstown rival Thrashers Blue.
CENTRAL PLAINS 7 CHIEFS 4
The Capitals trailed 4-3 after the first period but scored the final four goals of the game to dump the Chiefs 7-4 in Shoal Lake on Thursday, March 13.
Munro and Andren Paulsen scored for the Capitals. Jake Smith, Brody Cook, Y. Shingoose and Malcolm McCarthur were the Yellowhead marksmen.
Nicholas Bertholet and Kyle Gee combined to make 27 saves in goal for Central Plains. Noah Wohlgemuth and Ben Anderson finished with 24 stops in the Yellowhead net.
CENTRAL PLAINS 3 CHIEFS 2
The Capitals scored twice in the second period to take a 3-1 lead and hung on for a 3-2 win over the Chiefs in game one of the series in Portage la Prairie on Tuesday, March 11. Lane Gates, Evan Thomson and Zayden Lamirande tallied for the hosts.
Carter White and Lane
U18 action continues
The regular season champion Brandon Wheat Kings await their opponent in the final for the Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League title.
The Wheat Kings eliminated the Southwest Cougars winning 5-2, 5-2 and 4-2 in the best of five semi-final series.
The other semi-final was to be decided this week with the Winnipeg Wild leading the Winnipeg Bruins two games to one.
The number one and two teams in the regular season will face off for the Manitoba U18 Female Hockey League championship.
The Eastman Selects eliminated the Yellowhead Chiefs in three straight games to earn their spot in the final, while the Winnipeg Avros edged the Winnipeg Ice 3-2 in the deciding game of their best of five series.
McDonald scored for the Chiefs.
Kyle Gee earned the win in goal, making 25 saves. Noah Wohlgemuth was busier in the Yellowhead net, stopping 40 shots.
PHOTO
Chancellors eliminated by Swan Valley
The Swan Valley Tigers eliminated the MinnedosaErickson Chancellors from the Westman High School Hockey League playoffs with a 4-3 overtime win in Swan River on Saturday, March 15 to win their series two games to one. The Tigers will now move on to play the Dauphin Clippers in the semi-finals.
The Hamiota-Rivers-Elton Huskies also punched their ticket to the semi-finals with a 5-1 win over the KillarneyWawanesa Raiders in Hamiota on Saturday, March 15.
The Huskies swept the best of three series and will now face the Vincent Massey Vikings. The Vikings, who were undefeated in the regular season, also swept the Virden Golden Bears.
On the consolation side, the Birtle-Rossburn-Shoal Lake-Birdtail Falcons dropped a 5-4 overtime decision to the Crocus Plains Plainsmen in Brandon on Saturday, March 15. The Plainsmen won the quarter final series in two straight games.
5 Kill-Wawa 1
HIGH SCHOOL
Harlen Bridges had a pair of goals as the Huskies romped to a 5-1 win over the Raiders.
Chael Rozdeba, Sev Antonio and Nathan Espenell chipped in with singles.
Dylan Granger had the lone goal for the visitors, who trailed 1-0 and 3-1 by periods.
HRES 3 Kill-Wawa 1
Jack Oakden scored twice to lead the Huskies to a 3-1 win over the Raiders in game one of the series in Killarney on Friday, March 14.
McKinley Green had the other goal for the visitors, who led 2-1 after the second period. The teams were scoreless through 20 minutes.
Dylan Grainger scored the lone Raiders’ goal.
Swan Valley 4 Mdsa-Erick 3 (OT)
Cole Fletcher scored his second goal of the game at 13:26 of overtime as the Tigers edged the Chancellors 43.
Jax Penner and Maddix Eisner also scored for the hosts, who led 1-0 after the first period but trailed 2-1 after 40 minutes.
Jager Atkinson, Zachary Lamb and Myles Beatty were the Minnedosa marksmen.
Swan Valley 3 Mdsa-Erick 2
The Tigers tied the series with a 3-2 win in Minnedosa on Tuesday, March 11.
Jax Penner, Christian Hart and Ashton Cochrane scored for the visitors, with Myles Beatty and Jager Atkinson replying for the Chancellors.
The Tigers led 2-0 and 2-1 at the intermissions.
Mdsa-Erick 3 Swan Valley 1
The Chancellors took a 21 first period lead and added an insurance marker in the third to win game one by a score of 3-1 in Swan River on Saturday, March 9.
Aiden McGorman, Colton McCaughan and Ty Pollichuk were the Minnedosa marksmen.
Payton Thompson replied for the Tigers.
Crocus Plains 5 BSRBT 4 (OT)
Jackson Deg scored with 1:19 left in overtime as the
Plainsmen edged the Falcons 5-4.
Destin Brown scored twice in regulation time, with Rylan Dean and Deg adding the others.
Aiden Lewis notched a pair for the Falcons with Haden Mackedenski and Grady
Lee picking up singles. The teams were tied 1-1 and 3-3 at the intermissions.
Crocus Plains 5 BSRBT 3
Sam Cantelo scored twice as the Plainsmen dumped the Falcons 5-3 in the opening game of the series in Birtle on Friday, March 14.
Jaxon
HRES
Deg, Lukas Mullens and Rylan Dean added singles for the visitors, who held period leads of 2-1 and 53. Scoring for the Falcons were Logan Armitage, Carter Malchuk and Aiden Lewis.
March 21, 2025
Neepawa’s g rowth draws new medical duo
Neepawa: The Banner & Press – It seems these days, the arrival of new doctors to health care facilities is very important news. Now working in Neepawa is the medical duo of Dr. Danielle Paradis and her husband Brian Belanger, a physician assistant, after a stint working in Ste. Rose. The couple says that they were drawn to Neepawa because of the community’s growth and developments, including a new hospital. Paradis is originally from the Pelican Lake area while Belanger is from Montreal.
Baldur/Glenboro: The Gazette – Building today for a healthier tomorrow, Spirit Sands Medical Clinic in Glenboro is making significant strides on fundraising efforts leading up to groundbreaking for the new 3,000 to 4,000 square foot facility accommodating three to four health practitioners. As of mid-February a total of $1,294,961 in donations were received. Once completed the clinic will serve the growing health care needs of five local municipalities.
Virden: The EmpireAdvance – In celebration of Virden Curling Club’s 125th Bonspiel, a week long multileague bonspiel wrapped up on March 16 featuring upwards of 120 teams including men, women and senior. The bonspiel was shaping up to possibly be the largest rural bonspiel event in Canada in 2025 (and the world for that matter).
Roblin: The Review –Hypnotist Sebastian Steele put on a side-splitting show of two hours at the Roblin Golf & Country Club’s fundraiser. The event generated $40,000 for a new irrigation system. Steele impressed the organizers so much that club president, Jon Livingston, highly recommends him as a live entertainer.
Baldur/Glenboro: The Gazette – Nestled north of Cypress River, stands a workshop where Alicia Vertz transforms raw materials into stunning works of art. What began as a personal outlet for selfexpression has evolved into a source of income and a powerful tool for mental well-being. Vertz said no matter the medium, creating art allows her to laser-focus, making it both relaxing and calming.
Boissevain: The Recorder – When volunteers come to the table at the Boissevain Recycling facility, it’s all hands at work sorting, baling, and stacking massive bales of product to be sold
Paper Clips
News from MB/SK weeklies
for cash. While a dedicated crew, the volunteers could certainly use additional help in their efforts to keep reusable items out of the landfill.
Since 2015 Boissevain Recycling has recycled 2.3 million kilograms of waste with volunteerism playing a vital role in the community.
Whitewood: Grasslands News – The saying a picture says a thousand words, easily comes to mind upon viewing the massive catch hauled from Crooked Lake by Jayden Gerhardt on Feb. 21. Out with some friends and his dad, Gerhardt caught a massive pike measuring 45.5 inches and weighing 28 pounds. Over seven hours of ice fishing, it was the sole fish caught.
Killarney: The Guide –Four shy of 1,700 head of cattle passed through the Killarney Auction Mart ring on Feb. 24, 48 more head than the mart’s previous record. Not a bad way for marking the 10th anniversary since Allan Munroe and Tammy Munroe purchased the auction mart in February 2015.
Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – The Government of Saskatchewan is earmarking $6.5 million in funding to Ronald McDonald House Charities. The funding will go toward the building of the first ever Ronald McDonald House in Regina. The homeaway-from-home for families of sick children includes 20 bedrooms, a children’s playroom, outdoor play space, and a communal kitchen.
Whitewood: Grasslands News – The Town of Whitewood feels government funding is required when it comes to derelict properties, as remediation is too costly for both urban and rural municipalities. It is felt derelict buildings and yard sites are not only an eye sore but also threaten community safety.
DITCH LAKE VILLAGE
GARRETT BEATTY/FOR SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
As the sun penetrates the fog one recent morning, Ditch Lake’s ice shack village sparkled palely in the distance. The sight of woodsmoke plumes quickly faded into the sky as fishermen no doubt contemplated the impending end of the ice fishing season. As the village is hauled off the ice, the season of change soon means the beginning of the busy spring/summer time in the South Mountain area.
Matthew Kroeker Journeyman Mason
Hawthorns have mystical dimension
Last week we focused on the shamrock plant and how important the cloverleaf is to the Irish, especially around St. Patrick’s Day. It was said that St. Patrick supposedly used the three leaflets of the clover to illustrate the Holy Trinity and has undoubtedly become a symbol of all things Irish. This week we are going to further the lore surrounding leprechauns, fairies and believe it or not –the Hawthorn tree. Hawthorns are members of the rose family (Rosaceae), which contains trees, shrubs and herbs. Most of the woody members of the rose family are armed with prickles or spines. The flowers are frequently brightly colours and showy and the fruit varies from cherries, to apples, strawberries and raspberry types. Many of the members of this family are also used for medicine, essential oils and ornamentals.
In the Emerald Isle (Ireland) the hawthorns have a more mystical dimension. To those living years ago and those that still subscribe to Irish lore they are considered sacred trees and in Gaelic are called Sceach Gheal. The Celtic people also have a tree alphabet or horoscope and the hawthorn or Huath is the sixth symbol. They consider them the homes of fairies or Sidhe because they bloom at the time of the festival of Bealtaine. This Celtic festival marks the beginning of summer and on the ancient Celtic calendar is a Cross Quarter Day, half way between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice. Today it is associated with May 1 –despite the actual astronomical date several days later. In Irish mythology this was marked by the Fire Festival of Bealtaine where great bonfires would mark a period of transition and purification complete with rituals to protect people from harm by otherworldly spirits.
According to folklore, the hawthorn tree should never
Patricia Hanbidge GARDENING
be injured or killed lest they risk the wrath of the fairies. In fact, in Ireland there have been bitter disputes over rerouting roads to avoid removal of hawthorn trees. Even today those that believe will hang cards, ornaments and even pieces of clothing in hawthorn trees in order to gain the favour of the fairies so wishes may be granted. Here on the prairies, hawthorns (Crataegus spp.) are a shrubby tree with long thorns. They provide flowers for pollinators and the crabapple-like fruit for birds and other animals. Despite being quite rare they are native to our area. There have also been some lovely hawthorns bred over the years. The Morden hawthorn is a very strong, almost maintenance free small tree with less thorns, fragrant flowers and very little fruit making it a very clean tree for around decks and patios. So, for those of us that are Irish and of course those that would like to be. Perhaps you should plant a hawthorn tree or two and if you are lucky enough to have a hawthorn tree perhaps it might be a good idea to hang some offerings on your hawthorn to gain the favour of the fairies.
Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; by email at info@orchidhort. com; or on facebook @ orchidhort.
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
Adopting a new habit can be tough
Q: I keep trying – and failing – to change my eating habits. Even if I’m good for three weeks, which is what is supposed to let you establish a new habit, I backslide. How can I change my habits permanently? – Frank J., Columbia, MO
A: Changing a habit is tough. And whether you’re aiming to exercise more, eat more healthfully, or use your phone less, the myth that you can break an old habit and adopt a new one in 21 days can be totally frustrating. Most smokers try to quit an average of six times before succeeding.
A study in the journal Healthcare looked at 20 studies that included 2,600 folks and found that it can take from 59 to 335 days to give up your old ways and integrate a new habit into daily life. The healthier habits these folks were trying to adopt included getting more physical activity, drinking more water, improving nutrition, and flossing. But whatever you’re trying to get rid of or adopt, it’s vital to make it as easy and automatic as possible.
Tricks of the trade-off: Having a buddy who shares the same goal is helpful – you make an appointment with them to work out or report on your practice and you keep it! Using technology, like apps and watches, can also help –reminding you when it’s time to eat a salad, stand up or meditate. It’s also smart to join an in-person or online support group. They can help you quit smoking or encourage you to eat more vegetables. And be patient! It does
take time to adopt a new habit, but the rewards are enormous – and if you backslide, accept it as human and keep moving forward. For more support, encouragement and info, sign up for the free newsletter at LongevityPlaybook.com and keep your eye out for the site’s upcoming coaching program. Plus, visit Dr. Oz’s YouTube channel.
Q: I sprained my ankle, and I thought I was supposed to use RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) to make it heal faster. My doctor said no. These days RICE is nice, but MEAT – and PEACELOVE – prevail. Can you translate, please? – Leslie Y., Cleveland Heights, OH
A: There are situations when some parts of RICE are helpful, but new insights reveal that rest and ice can slow healing. Even the doctor who introduced RICE in the late 70s now says ice retards healing – because it blocks the inflammatory response that is required for healing. If you want to use ice for immediate
pain relief, limit it to about eight to 12 minutes within the first six hours of injury. And rest may be smart for 12 to 24 hours, but after that, it does you no favors.
The new way of thinking about strains, sprains and minor bruises is that controlled movement and gentle exercise are smarter ways to regain function and repair damaged tissue. So, what are the new recommendations?
Meet MEAT – movement, exercise, analgesics (or pain meds) and treatment. The movement is gentle, should
not cause pain and is designed to increase range of motion. This helps new tissue grow and brings in nutrient-rich blood. Treatment includes physical therapy or even alternative treatments like acupuncture. If you can’t or shouldn’t take pain meds or NSAIDs, you can try PEACE.
PEACE stands for protection, elevation, avoiding antiinflammatories, compression and education – and it’s started within three days of injury. While it incorporates gentle motion that increases range of motion, don’t do any-
thing that puts additional weight on the injured area.
And consult with your doctor and or PT specialist about treatment. After PEACE, move to LOVE.
LOVE is load, optimism, vascularization and exercise. You want to increase blood flow (vascularization) by doing gentle walking, swimming or biking and regain your normal daily activities.
For more information about how to strengthen your body, read “The Great Age Reboot” and check out “Best Supplements for Muscle Sore-
ness and Speeding Up Recovery” iHerb.com/blog.
Dr. Mike Roizen is the founder of www.longevity playbook.com, and Dr. Mehmet Oz is global advisor to www.iHerb.com, the world’s leading online health store. Roizen and Oz are chief wellness officer emeritus at Cleveland Clinic and professor emeritus at Columbia University, respectively. Together they have written 11 New York Times bestsellers (four No. 1’s).
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COMING EVENTS
Elphinstone Lions Spring Ham and Cash Bingo, Sunday, March 23, Elphinstone Hall. Doors open 12:00 p.m., early birds 1:00 p.m., games 1:30 p.m. Canteen available. Prizes and Candy Guesses. Everyone welcome. Bring old eye glasses to recycle. Licence #1339B1/1339-B0.
Perogie Sale, Saturday, March 29 and April 5, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., St. Jude’s Church, Main Street, Erickson. Perogies frozen, 5 dozen per bag, $30.
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.
WANTED
Licensed gun dealer looking for firearms in all classes, and anything firearms related. Inheritance assistance provided. Can store handguns during the ban. Call or text Keith 204-471-9015.
ARTICLES FOR SALE
Did You Know? We print Personal and Business Cheques! 100 Personal Cheques $99 + taxes, 100 (manual) Business Cheques $91 + taxes, 250 (laser) Business Cheques $210 + taxes. Call Connie at 204-759-2644 Ext. 2 or email ctwprinting@mymts.net. Nesbitt Publishing, Shoal Lake.
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Invest in advertising. The cost of advertising is small when you think of the number of people who will potentially attend your event simply because they saw your ad in
CONGRATULATIONS
Maryann Kologinski, on your well-earned retirement from Compass Credit Union (Erickson) on March 27 after 38 incredible years of dedication. The community will truly miss your hard work, dedication, and the exceptional care you’ve always provided. We wish you all the happiness, well-deserved relaxation, and new adventures in this next chapter!
-Withlove,yourfamily
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Minimum 25 words $7.00, additional words 20¢ (plus GST) • It is preferred if Obituaries can be emailed. Any obituary copy that is typeset by our staff will be subject to proof approval prior to publication. No discount for municipal or government ads • Ads not pre-paid by Thursday Noon are subject to a $2.50 billing charge
the newspaper. If the cost of advertising is covered by just two or three admissions to your event, any additional guests you welcome is money in your pocket. Advertising does not cost, it pays! Call Michelle at 204-759-2644 ext. 1.
Urgent Press Releases. Have a newsworthy item to announce? An exciting change in operations? Though we cannot guarantee publication, MCNA will get the information into the right hands for only $35 plus GST. Call Manitoba Community Newspapers Association 204-947-1691 for more information, See www.mcna.com under the ‘Types of Advertising’ tab for more details.
ROLLING RIVER SCHOOL DIVISION
SUMMER STUDENT POSITION
Administrative Assistant (May 5 to Aug. 29, 2025)
Current Starting Rate of Pay - $16.60 per hour Position is based at the Administration Office in Minnedosa, MB.
For more details and application information, please visit our website at www.rrsd.mb.ca select Employment then Summer Student Positions.
Thank you to all applicants for their interest in Rolling River School Division. Only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.
ROLLING RIVER SCHOOL DIVISION
MECHANIC
The position is based at a central garage / shop in Minnedosa, MB with 2.5 FTE Mechanics who maintain a fleet of 40 school buses and 15 fleet vehicles.
For more details and application information, please visit our website at www.rrsd.mb.ca select Employment then Support Staff Positions.
Thank you to all applicants for their interest in Rolling River School Division. Only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.
selected for an interview will be contacted.
These positions are subject to a Criminal Record Check (including Vulnerable Sector), Adult Abuse Registry Check, and a Child Abuse Registry Check. The successful applicant will be responsible for any services charges incurred.
South Mountain Press
The problem with pigs – part I
I have been reading the stories about wild pigs in Manitoba with some interest over the past year. More specifically, I have been wondering how these furless omnivores survive Manitoba’s winters.
Perplexed, I did some research about wild pigs, particularly about their native range. I thought it might be useful to put these agricultural and ecological pests into perspective by looking at their origins, their ecological needs, and how they are able to make Manitoba home.
To begin with, whether you call them wild pigs, European boars, or wild Texas boars, they are all the same species, as are our domestic pigs. They all share the same Latin name, Sus scrofa. All these pigs derive from the Eurasian wild boar, domesticated somewhere in eastern Europe or western Asia.
This also means that you can “reverse-evolve” tame pigs to look and act like wild boars over a few generations. When I was a kid on the farm, our pig herd consisted of a mix of Yorkshire, Landrace, and Duroc breeds. And while the piglets all looked like the cute babies you would expect, the older they were, the uglier and more brutish they appeared, with some of our largest boars pretty much indistinguishable from their wild cousins.
If you examine the original range maps of European wild boar, they were found in most parts of Europe south of the North Sea, with the core range centered around Ukraine, southern Russia, and extend-
ing to points south to the middle east and beyond. These areas provide all the conditions necessary for wild boars. Rooting under nutproducing trees allow pigs to find enough calories in these rich foods, even during the winter. They also scavenge on dead animals, as well as dig into the soil to find wild tubers and to eat fungus such as truffles.
The relatively mild winters mean that, unlike Manitoba, the soil isn’t frozen solid, and the temperatures are moderate enough (no colder than - 10ºC) that the pigs can feed all night long, which lessens the danger from predation. Snow, when it falls, is generally short-lived and rarely
builds up to depths that make it hard for short-legged pigs to move through.
If you plotted the climate of their original range in eastern Europe, and compared it to North America, these animals would live in an area equivalent to the U.S. midwest and areas south, occasionally extending as far north as the southern Great Lakes, such as Lake Erie.
This is not what you find in Manitoba in a normal year, especially this year. This is worth repeating. The Canadian prairies and parkland are not normally fit habitat for wild boars. Our winters are too long, too cold, and lack easily accessible natural food during the winter, such as nuts.
These conditions are why another similar-sized omnivore, the black bear, decides to skip the winter through hibernation. Black bears are much more well suited for our area. They can gain hundreds of pounds of fat during the summer, they have lots of thick fur, and they are adapted to sleep for more than
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five months during the coldest months.
And just as importantly, they can climb trees to access food such as acorns or aspen catkins. With the ability to stand on their hind feet, they can also access berries still in the tree, such as chokecherries and hawthorn apples. This means that they can get to food before it drops to the ground. Pigs, with the exception of the ability to pack on the pounds, do not possess these special tools.
On a related note, when working as a Park Interpreter, I was asked more than once whether pigs and bears were closely related. After all, they are both omnivores, eating much the same things, and they even share the same names for males (boars) and females (sows).
Alas, pigs are not closely related to bears at all. In
terms of the ancestral tree, humans are more closely related to bears than pigs are. And I assume that most people wouldn’t consider themselves to be closely related to bears, or pigs for that matter!
In case I am making too strong a point about their poor adaptions for life in Manitoba, let me highlight some of the pig’s strong points. To begin with, pigs have large litters, and they are smart, quickly learning to adapt to new situations. As pointed out by Dr. Ryan Brook at the University of Saskatchewan, they use what he has termed “pigloos,” structures of cattails, long grass, and snow that protect them from the coldest weather.
They are also evolved to avoid predators such as wolves which can control pig populations but not eliminate them. Pigs will also travel
long distances to feed each day, and their snouts provide them super sensitive smelling, allowing them to find even buried food. As stated, they also have a very catholic diet, meaning just about everything is a source of food to them.
Despite these strengths, pigs still shouldn’t be able to overcome the challenges of Manitoba. Yet, there is definitely a breeding population of wild pigs here in Manitoba. How are they able to survive, and even reproduce here? I will cover this topic in next month’s article, where I will delve into the factors that allow them to persist here, and the current management techniques for controlling these wild pig populations. 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.
MEMBER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE SUPERVISOR POSITION ERICKSON, MB
Compass Credit Union is currently looking for a candidate to fill the role of Member Service Representative Supervisor for a Full Time Position at our Erickson Branch.
The Position
Reporting to the Branch Manager, the successful candidate will lead the Member Service Department, empowering and guiding our frontline team to maximize every referral and sales opportunity and to offer outstanding and professional service to both members and non members alike.
As a supervisor in the fast paced world of sales and service, one of the most critical responsibilities is leading a team effectively. Balancing targets with fostering a positive, productive environment requires a clear understanding of leadership, a commitment to service excellence, and a focus on cultivating a culture of advice and mentorship.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, overseeing daily deposit activities, managing cash and non cash transactions, handling member ATM, online, and card requests, responding to member inquiries, and analyzing their needs to recommend the most suitable products and services.
Duties also include, but are not limited to, opening member accounts: Personal, Business, Organizational, Corporate and Estate accounts, and completing registered account transactions and processing.
The Person:
As part of the team the successful candidate will work well under pressure, demonstrate attention to detail and excel in delivering exceptional member service. They will possess strong communication, organizational, problem solving and decision making skills.
Experience/Education:
The successful applicant will possess a Grade 12 diploma with a minimum 2 3 years in member service and/or cash handling experience. 1 3 years of related experience with direct supervisory and or previous Credit Union experience would be considered an asset. Applicants with a combination of other equivalent education and work experience may be considered.
The Credit Union
Compass Credit Union, formerly Crocus Credit Union and Erickson Credit Union, have two branches in Brandon, one in Erickson as well as a majority interest in an Insurance Agency. Salary will be based on qualifications and experience.
Please send resume and covering letter, in confidence, by Monday April 14, 2025 to:
Monica Lambourne ACUIC, FCUIC, ABL, ACRML
Branch Manager
Compass Credit Union Limited 24 Main Street – P.O. Box 100 Erickson, MB R0J 0P0
