SMP - March 27, 2026

South Mountain

Press

MAKING CHANGE

Friday, MARCH 27, 2026 Vo lum e 18 N um b e r22

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DAR R E L L N E SBIT T / SO U T H M O U N T AIN PR E SS A Manitoba Hydro crew worked to implement power to a building being renovated at the west end of Erickson’s Main Street on the morning of Friday, March 20, across from the Canada Post outlet. The owner of the building is in the process of renovating the structure, adding new windows, doors, and siding, along with making drastic changes to the inside of the building.

P rovincia l P a rk reserva tions get rea dy to op en RAC HEAL FLIN TO FT So uth M o unta in Pre ss

The province has confirmed that the 2026 provincial park reservation season will begin on April 13. The Parks Reservation Service will use a five-day staggered rollout, with the majority of Westman and Parkland campgrounds opening for bookings on April 16 at 7:00 a.m.

This Thursday window is the

most critical date for local campers. It includes popular regional destinations such as Asessippi, Rivers, and Spruce Woods (Kiche Manitou), alongside Duck Mountain, William Lake, and Turtle Mountain.

N E W R U L E S AN D F E AT U R E S F O R 2026 The province is introducing a $10 cancellation fee this year for any reservation cancelled four or

more days before a scheduled arrival. The new charge aims to reduce speculative bookings that often leave campgrounds underutilized during peak weekends of the summer.

Additionally, a new email notification tool has been added to the reservation website. Account holders can now set up to five alerts to be notified immediately if a campsite becomes available due to a cancellation for a desig-

nated timeframe.

For those targeting Rivers Provincial Park, the campground on Lake Wahtopanah remains a high-demand location due to its full-service sites and proximity to the community.

Similarly, Asessippi remains a top draw for its scenic valley views and access to the Lake of the Prairies.

However, campers at Spruce Woods should prepare for some

limitations. While the province recently invested over $2 million into the park for 70 new electrical pedestals and trail repairs, the Bay 10 family and group sites at Kiche Manitou will remain offline during the initial April booking window. These sites are currently closed while ongoing electrical upgrades are completed.

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South Mountain Press

Friday, March 27, 2026

Area reserva tions op en on Ap ril 16 from p age 1 rush, a virtual waiting room will be used starting at 7:00 a.m. each day. Anyone logged in before the 7:00 a.m. cutoff will be assigned a random place in the queue. Provincial officials recommend that users log into their accounts before April 13 to ensure passwords and credit card information are current.

Reservations can be made at www.manitobaparks.com or by calling 1-888-482-2267.

The Manitoba government has introduced an amendment to the Business Practices Act that would ban retailers from using consumers’ personal data to increase the price of goods for a specific consumer, Public Service Delivery Minister Mintu Sandhu announced.

“Protecting Manitobans from unfair pricing practices is essential to keeping life affordable,” said Sandhu.

“These are first of their kind amendments and take aim at the misuse of personal data to inflate prices and ensure consumers are treated fairly whether they shop at the grocery store or other retailers.

By strengthening these protections, the Manitoba government is reinforcing its broader commitment to lowering everyday costs for families.”

Whether in-store or online, the proposed bill would make it an unfair business practice for suppliers to charge higher prices to certain consumers based on personalized or algorithmically determined infor-

mation.

The proposed amendment would also make clear that the Business Practices Act applies to online retailers and online distributors. By adding the use of personal data to increase prices as an unfair business practice, the proposed bill responds to concerns that companies may be using a consumer’s data to charge them more for goods, including groceries.

Bill 49 aligns with the Manitoba government’s commitment to lowering grocery prices for Manitobans including other actions such as: •removing property controls on grocery store locations; •freezing the price of milk; •freezing hydro rates; •cutting the gas tax permanently; •ensuring every student gets a meal; and •increasing the property tax credit and the pre-natal benefit to ensure families have more money for groceries.

ATTENTION GRABBER

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

Each spring season as the snow melts, streets and highways throughout the region showcase a variety of views – some inquisitive, some beautiful, and some ugly. Although it’s not known if this bicycle was buried in a snow bank on the west side of Erickson or was simply put there by a homeowner, one thing is certain it has been used for quite some time based on its rusty appearance. It won’t be long now until motorists will once again be called upon to share the road with eager youngsters out spinning their tires.

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South Mountain Press

Friday, March 27, 2026

3

Erickson a nd Area F ood Ba nk m a rks a noth er yea r of giving

date items in large quantities throughout the year, but also supported the EAFB through several additional programs including Fuel Good Days and making up Hunger Bags for donation at both the Sandy Lake and Erickson Food Store locations.

Rolling River First Nation also provided significant funding to the EAFB in 2025, accounting for approximately three months of the operating budget. The Onanole Foundation provided $1,375 for the purchase of equipment, while the Municipality of Clanwilliam-Erickson provided a donation of $1,500.

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small but mighty group of volunteers is also dedicated to the fundraising subcommittee.

The foodbank employs a part-time executive director who manages day-to-day operations, coordinates and supervises volunteers, manages donations and food safety procedures, and completes required administration.

And while the board of the EAFB recognizes the generosity of the community, the need for the foodbank continues unabated. Thus, the EAFB continues to search for consistent funding to cover operational costs.

One way to achieve this is through regular monthly donations through the http:// www.canadahelps.org/ and currently there are several organizations who are monthly donors, including the Royal Canadian Legion, Erickson Lutheran Church, Erickson Lions Club and

Smokey Hollow Resort. Additionally, there are four individual families who provide monthly support, helping to meet the increasing demand on the foodbank.

Each year, especially in the fall, the EAFB also receives an increase in fresh, locally sourced produce as gardeners harvest excess food. This food is always appreciated, and the EAFB encourages local green thumbs to grow-a-row dedicated to the foodbank.

Finally, if you are interested in assisting in this valuable endeavor, the EAFB is always looking for additional volunteers to join their board of directors, help with packing and distributing hampers, or join the fundraising committee.

Please contact Emma at executivedirector@erickson foodbank.com for more information.

The Minnedosa Regional Health Foundation is embarking on a fundraising campaign to purchase equipment for the Minnedosa Health Centre. After consultations with the staff and physicians, the following items have been identified to be important to improve and maintain medical care.

180,000 160,000 140,000 120,000 $109,000

100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000

ONANOLE/WASAGAMING AREA

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or in-kind support. The remaining donations and support came from community donations including from donations of food during food drives, drop-off boxes.

Another source of important funding was from community donations. In 2025, the community gave just over $49,000 to help with operations, including several fund raisers hosted by local businesses and individuals.

The EAFB also accessed capital project funding of $66,000 for building accessibility and the purchase of culturally sensitive food and flexible distribution hours. These funds in turn supported local businesses, ensuring that the larger community benefited from these funds.

The EAFB couldn’t serve as many families without the dedicated team of volunteers who assist with packing hampers, food pick-up, and distribution. In addition, a

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2025 marked another year that the Erickson & Area Food Bank Inc. (EAFB) helped local community members meet their food needs.

The foodbank’s motto “Food For All” “Gakina Awiyaa Omiciwin” acts as the catalyst for the current volunteers and board members who work each month to provide monthly and emergency food hampers, harm reduction information and supplies, and support for food security projects.

As such, the EAFB provided an average of 135 hampers, serving 300 to 500 individuals each month. The foodbank follows the Food Bank Canada National Standards when creating food hampers, with the goal to provide a nutritious, balanced diet for participants.

Currently the foodbank operates out of 43 Main Street in Erickson, where food hampers were distributed on the first two Wednesdays of the month. This location provides storage of dry and canned goods, as well as over 2,000 cubic feet of refrigerator and freezer space.

Running a foodbank doesn’t come cheaply. In 2025, the operating budget was just under $90,000, covering food purchases, wages, utilities, and building maintenance.

As a non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to reducing hunger, increasing food security, and building resilience in our region, it operates under a volunteer board of directors made up of community members.

However, the food bank couldn’t have operated without the help of its committed donors. Eighty percent of our in-kind donations were provided by two sources. Harvest Manitoba provided a monthly donation of food.

The Heritage Co-op donated day-old or near-best-before-

1) L a p a ro s co p ic/ M IS set of 2 for the OR which includes updated camera equipment for general surgeons to perform more laparoscopic surgeries.

2) O p htha lm o lo gy Su rgica l E qu ip m e n t to upgrade and increase the number of surgeries and treatment of eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration.

3) Slit L a m p for follow up assessment after eye surgery which will prevent patients from having to travel to Brandon.

4) CM AC Glide s co p e for operating room and emergency room use to intubate patients, providing an airway, who have coded during surgery or recovery.

5) Accu ve in Ve in F in de r to assist in locating veins thus preventing multiple attempts to start an IV in pediatric, elderly and acutely ill patients needing medications, fluids and blood samples.

The total cost for this equipment is $180,000. Some purchases will replace the old equipment and some purchases will allow caregivers to provide new procedures at our hospital. All purchases will improve the care provided at Minnedosa Health Centre and ensure more of the patients’ needs can be met locally. By providing the necessary tools, our doctors and nurses will have greater job satisfaction which creates a positive work environment. This positive work culture benefits patients and may attract new staff.

In the effort to support medical services for the community and surrounding area, the Minnedosa Regional Health Foundation encourages donations to achieve this goal. The Foundation is a charitable organization and income tax receipts are issued for all donations.

Donations for this equipment can be done in several different ways.

Che qu e : Minnedosa Regional Health Foundation PO Box 772, Minnedosa, MB R0J 1E0 O n lin e : Go to our website, MRHF.com to proceed to donate online.

O n lin e : Search ‘CanadaHelps Donation’. Go on ‘donate’ then type our name and fill out your details.

Pe rs o n a l p re s e n ta tio n :We would be pleased to meet in person with your group or individuals to further explain our needs for the Minnedosa Health Centre. Contact John Mendrikis, sec/tres, by email to jchome1447@gmail.com or by phone 204 867-0051.

L e t’s s u p p o rt o u r H e a lth Ce n tre to p ro vide the b e s t he a lth s e rvice s clo s e to ho m e !

4

OPINION

Friday, March 27, 2026

Le tte rs to the e d ito r:

sm pnew s@ m ym ts.net

Lions continue to recycle for sigh t a nd h ea ring It’s not uncommon to see local Lions Clubs encourage donations of used prescription eye glasses, but a club in small town Saskatchewan is taking donations of used eyeglass cases, to a whole new level, as part of their mission to uplift community service.

The Maryfield Lions are filing the used cases with dental products – toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and dental picks – plus a tongue cleaner attached to the outside due to its length. Assistance to the project in terms of the kit items comes from Moosomin Dental Centre.

The first run saw 34 of these dental kits delivered to the Shelwin House transition house in Yorkton. More kits will be made, as used eyeglass cases become available.

Lions International is serving a world in need, one act of kindness at a time. Lions and Leos make a difference every day, everywhere they serve. And with the sup-

Darrell

Nesbitt AR OUN D T OW N port of the international association and its global foundation a change in lives, communities and the world is shared.

Area clubs are also now accepting used hearing aids.

Drop off boxes for both glasses and hearing aids are found in local community stores.

Have you ever wondered how many community citizens are involved in the serv-

ice club known as the Lions?

The Association of Lions Clubs was founded in 1917 in Chicago, IL. Three years later, in 1920, with the chartering of the Border Cities Lions Club in Windsor, ON, the name changed to Lions Clubs International. Today Lions Clubs International is the largest humanitarian and service organization in the world, with an estimated 48,000 clubs in over 200 countries and geographic areas and 1.4+ million members including about 30,000 Lions in Canada.

Global causes of the Lions include Childhood Cancer, Diabetes, Disaster Relief, Environment, Humanitarian, Hunger, Vision, and Youth.

Thanks to the Lions there have been many successful community – small town to metropolitan city – stories.

Volunteers are serving their community’s needs, meeting humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote inter-

national understanding through involvement in a Lions club. The non-profit organizations are always seeking new ideas from new members, so why not join today?

Staying on the topic of feel good stories, the Moosomin Dairy Queen, owned by Joanne and Morgan Kerr, along with their colleagues, were thrilled and beyond thankful for being recognized for their community support and engagement with this year’s Miracle Maker Award.

Each year one franchise is recognized across Canada and this was the first time the prestigious national award was presented in Saskatchewan.

Last year Moosomin Dairy Queen raised $42,000 for the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital (JPCH), which supports pediatric and maternal health care, on Miracle Treat Day. The JPCH Foundation in-

spires philanthropy to lead the transformation of maternal and children’s health in Saskatchewan and globally, through world-class familycentered care, research, and innovation.

Centrally located next to the University of Saskatchewan campus in Saskatoon, the province’s first dedicated maternal and children’s hospital offers Neonatal Intensive Care, General Pediatrics, Pediatric Emergency Ambulatory Services and Saskatchewan’s only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Maternal services include labour and delivery, antepartum and postpartum care. The 176-bed facility, officially opening in September 2019, provides the highest quality of care and is putting Saskatchewan at the forefront of research and innovation.

“Service is what life is all about” is among countless quotes in terms of giving one-

self to needs. Here are a few more…

Goodness is the only investment that never fails.

As we serve others we are working on ourselves; every act, every word, every gesture of genuine compassion naturally nourishes our own hearts as well.

Everyone has a purpose in life and a unique talent to give to others. And when we blend this unique talent with service to others, we experience the ecstasy and exultation of own spirit, which is the ultimate goal of all goals.

If you want happiness for an hour – take a nap. If you want happiness for a day – go fishing. If you want happiness for a month – get married. If you want happiness for a year – inherit a fortune.

If you want happiness for a lifetime – help someone else.

And until next week…

The greatest reward for doing is the opportunity to do more.

Scra p ca rbon ta xes a nd cut ga s ta xes to ea se p um p p rices The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is calling on the federal and provincial governments to scrap all carbon taxes and cut gas taxes to ease the pain of high gas prices.

“Drivers are feeling the pain of high gas prices and taxes are making things more expensive,” said Franco Terrazzano, CTF Federal Direc-

Op inion tor. “Canadians even pay taxes on top of taxes when they fuel up. Politicians can make life easier for taxpayers by cutting gas taxes.”

At current gas prices, total taxes in some cities cost up to 65 cents per litre of gas.

The federal government

and some provinces charge a sales tax on top of other fuel taxes. That means that as the price of gas and fuel taxes increase, the tax-on-tax costs Canadian drivers more money.

The federal government imposes a hidden carbon tax through fuel regulations. The regulations require producers to reduce the carbon content

of their fuels. If they can’t meet the requirements, they must purchase credits, increasing costs that are passed onto Canadians purchasing gas or diesel.

These fuel regulations currently increase the price of gas by up to seven cents per litre, increasing to 17 cents per litre by 2030, according to the Parliamentary Budget Of-

ficer.

The federal government also imposes an industrial carbon tax on oil and gas, steel and fertilizer businesses, among others. About 70 percent of Canadians say businesses pass on most or some of the cost of the industrial carbon tax to consumers through higher prices, according to a Leger poll.

Federal and provincial governments also impose fuel excise taxes ranging from 7.5 cents per litre to 19 cents per litre of gas.

“Politicians should immediately make life more affordable and scrap all carbon taxes, cut fuel taxes and eliminate the tax-on-tax,” Terrazzano said.

N D P h a ve not delivered on p rom ises of m ea ningful ch a nge Hi, my name is Levi Cottingham and I am a Conservative (for those who didn’t already know). Now that we got that out of the way...

Manitobans were promised meaningful change when the Manitoba New Democratic Party formed government. Unfortunately, things are getting worse.

Ask a healthcare worker.

Ask a parent. Ask a tradesperson.

The reality on the ground has not improved. In fact, many would argue it has gotten worse. Access to health care remains one of the biggest concerns. Emergency rooms face reduced hours or closures, doctor shortages persist, and too many families are forced to travel long distances just to receive basic care. These are not abstract policy issues – they are everyday realities that affect people’s safety and quality of life.

The numbers back this

Letter up. As noted by the Fraser Institute: “On the campaign trail back in 2023, Premier Wab Kinew promised to fix Manitoba’s health-care system. Fast-forward to today and the province’s healthcare spending has increased 9% (per person, after adjusting for inflation) while wait times have increased 34%.

Manitobans also continue to struggle with a doctor shortage, and patients are dying after long waits in the emergency room.” For rural communities, where access is already limited, these trends are even more alarming.

Manitoba’s economic outlook is stark to say the least as well. When the NDP took office in October 2023, the unemployment rate was about 5.2%. The latest numbers from January 2026 show that the unemployment rate is 6.3%. This is not good news for Manitobans – par-

ticularly youth who are consistently being squeezed out of the job market by unfriendly labour and immigration policies.

Last week, gasoline hit $1.629 a litre in Birtle and it’s even higher in some parts of the province. Food inflation experienced a 2.7% increase in the Consumer Price Index, which is a measure of overall inflation experienced by households.

This 2.7% increase was the

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highest increase in the entire country.

That’s why proposals like raising the basic personal amount to $30,000 – something the Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba has committed to – matter so much. It’s a straightforward way to let Manitobans keep more of their own money at a time when they need it most whilst giving our local economy a shot in the arm.

Instead of waiting for things

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to magically get better, our provincial government needs to address the situation with vigour.

What is perhaps most frustrating is not just the lack of progress, but the response from the NDP government. Time and again, when these issues are raised, the answer is to point fingers at governments of years past. If families are expected to deal with their problems head-on every single day,

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shouldn’t the government be doing the same? Being a leader means taking responsibility and delivering solutions.

Manitobans were told things would get better. Instead, many are asking whether anything has changed at all and in too many cases, the answer is absolutely not.

Sincerely, Levi Cottingham Birtle, MB

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South Mountain Press

Friday, March 27, 2026

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R CM P ch a rge youth s a fter online th rea ts m a de On March 13, Blue Hills RCMP was alerted by INTERPOL to an online conversation that was occurring between two youths – a 15-yearold from Nova Scotia and a 14-year-old from Rivers. Officers were informed that the conversation began in late February and that the male youth from Rivers was actively discussing and planning to harm other students at Rivers Collegiate. An investigation immediately began to identify and locate the 14-year-old who engaged in these conversations and to bring him safely into custody prior to the start of the school week. On the morning of March 16, RCMP officers initiated a traffic stop on a school bus near Provincial Road 250 and arrested the 14year-old suspect, who was un-

RCMP Briefs Provincial Roundup armed. His phone and electronic devices were seized. A subsequent search of two other properties associated to the youth resulted in the seizure of additional electronic devices and other items, including two firearms owned by a relative.

“We know details of this arrest will have an impact on the students, parents, and the

entire community of Rivers.

Be assured that our officers acted quickly, worked closely with our policing partners, and took immediate steps to find and arrest the youth.

The priority from the outset was the safety and security of the students at Rivers Collegiate,” said Superintendent Lee Fortin, West District Commander for the Manitoba RCMP. “As we continue to see a rise in these types of threats, we need everyone to continue reporting anything suspicious or concerning to police – your information can make a critical difference.”

The youth has been charged with uttering threats. Additional charges are possible as the investigation continues.

On March 19, Manitoba

RCMP arrested a second suspect in connection with the shooting death of a 33-yearold female last summer on the Keeseekoowenin First Nation. The homicide occurred July 28, 2025, at a residence in the community, with the female killed and a 26-year-old male seriously injured. A 52-year-old male was arrested and charged last August in connection with the incident. Further investigation allowed RCMP to identify a 31-year-old male of Keseekoowenin First Nation, as a second suspect in the case. Yellowhead and Russell RCMP officers located the suspect as he was driving along Highway 45, initiated a traffic stop and safely took him into custody without incident. The 31-year-old male has been charged with: First-

Low -to-m odera te flood risk p rojected RAC HEAL FLIN TO FT So uth M o unta in Pre ss

The province is stating that a low-to-moderate risk of spring flooding for the Assiniboine, Qu’Appelle, and Little Saskatchewan River basins are being reported in the current Provincial Flood Outlook. The Hydrologic Forecast Centre indicates that below-normal winter precipitation and favourable soil moisture levels have created a stable outlook for the entire region heading into the spring melt.

Soil moisture levels across the region were near or below normal at the time of freeze-up. Combined with shallower-than-normal frost depths, the ground is currently capable of absorbing a significant amount of melt-

water. For all regional producers, including those in Birtle, Erickson, Hamiota, Miniota, Rossburn, Russell, and beyond, increased infiltration volume reduces the risk of prolonged overland flooding.

Under normal weather conditions, these factors support a suitable start to the seeding season by minimizing standing water in low-lying areas and allowing for earlier field access.

The Shellmouth Reservoir is currently being drawn down to approximately 1,389 feet to provide storage capacity for spring runoff from the upper Assiniboine River. Outflow from the dam is being maintained at 1,230 cubic feet per second (cfs) to lower reservoir levels without overtop-

ping the banks downstream at for various regional communities. In Minnedosa, the Little Saskatchewan River is expected to stay within its banks. Regional lakes are also anticipated to remain within their normal operating ranges due to belowaverage inflows from drierthan-normal contributing basins.

The final flood risk for the region depends on weather conditions through the end of April. Heavy spring rain or significant late-season snowfall could overwhelm the soil’s current absorption capacity. The rate of the melt is also a factor; a rapid temperature spike would increase runoff volume regardless of frost depth. While the general risk is low, localized jam-induced

flooding always remains a threat. Ice conditions and the timing of the break-up will determine the potential for localized flooding in these historically jam-prone areas.

E M E R GE N CY R E ADIN E SS The Manitoba Emergency Management Organization is working with local municipal authorities to monitor ice strength and review emergency plans. As temperatures rise, residents and producers are cautioned that ice on all rivers, lakes, and retention ponds will deteriorate rapidly and should be avoided.

Provincial officials will continue to monitor the upper Assiniboine and Little Saskatchewan basins as the primary melt period begins.

M a n ito b a le a din g the co u n try in a cce s s to fa m ily do cto rs The Manitoba government welcomes the findings of the 2025 OurCare National Survey, which shows Manitoba is leading the country in access to primary care, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced.

“Access is the front door to health care, and our government is reopening that door in Manitoba,” said Asagwara. “It’s encouraging to see that nearly 89 percent of Manitobans report having a regular primary care provider but our goal is 100 percent. When we formed government, too many Manitobans had lost access to care while clinics were stretched beyond capacity. We made a deliberate decision to rebuild primary care, to hire more physicians, expand training and recruitment pathways, open extended-hours clinics and modernize how patients find and connect to care. To-

day’s results show those choices are making a measurable difference.”

The survey, led by researchers at the University of Toronto’s MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions and supported by the Canadian Medical Association, found 88.8 percent of respondents in Manitoba report having a family doctor, nurse practitioner or regular primary care setting, the highest rate in the country and well above the national average of 82.8 percent.

Since 2023, the Manitoba government has hired a net

increase of 285 new doctors, reversing years of attrition and helping stabilize care in communities across the province. Manitoba is also retaining more newly trained physicians, with 89 percent of family medicine residents who completed training in 2025 choosing to remain in the province and enter clinical practice. Today, 99 percent of Manitobans in Winnipeg are matched with a family doctor within the national standard of 25 days, many within 24 hours, up from 79 percent when this government took office.

The Manitoba government has also expanded extendedhours primary care clinics to provide evening and weekend access for non-emergency concerns. These clinics allow patients to be seen outside traditional weekday hours, helping reduce pressure on emergency departments while improving continuity of care.

According to the OurCare survey, timely and afterhours access remains a challenge nationally, making Manitoba’s investments in expanded clinic hours particularly significant.

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

degree murder; Attempted murder; and Obstructing justice. He remains in custody.

The investigation continues

On March 18, Ste. Rose du Lac RCMP received a report of a missing 21-year-old woman from O-Chi-Chak-KoSipi First Nation. The 21year-old female had been last seen on March 16 at a residence in the community. Officers from the Ste. Rose du Lac Detachment, along with a First Nation Safety Officer and community members, conducted numerous checks in the community, including a search of nearby trails, for any information that may lead to the 21-year-old being found. That morning, RCMP received a report that the missing female had been lo-

cated deceased near Provincial Road 481. The cause of death remains under investigation as results of the autopsy are pending. Ste. Rose du Lac RCMP, along with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, continue to investigate

On March 16, Flin Flon RCMP responded to a report of an unresponsive female at a residence located on Hill Street in Flin Flon. Officers attended to the home and located a 31-year-old female who was pronounced deceased on scene. Her death is considered suspicious and remains under investigation.

Flin Flon RCMP, along with RCMP Major Crime Services, continue to investigate.

Municipality of Harrison Park UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE PLANNING ACT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING On the date and at the time and location shown below, a PUBLIC HEARING will be held to receive representations from any person(s) who wish to make them in respect to the following matter:

THE MUNICIPALITY OF HARRISON PARK BY-LAW NO.178 Being an amendment to the Harrison Park Development Plan By-Law 138 HEARING LOCATION:

Municipality of Harrison Park Council Chambers at 43 Gateway Street Onanole, MB R0J 1N0

DATE & TIME:

April 8, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

GENERAL INTENT OF BY-LAW NO. 178:

This development plan amendment intends to introduce new policies directing short-term rentals to appropriate peripheral areas and to update livestock policy areas and separation distances to guide new and expanding livestock operations in proximity to potentially incompatible land uses and natural areas.

AREA AFFECTED:

This By-law affects all areas of the Municipality of Harrison Park

FOR INFORMATION Robert Ewashko CONTACT: Building & Development Officer Municipality of Harrison Park Ph: 204-848-2561 E-mail: robert@harrisonpark.ca A copy of the above proposal and supporting material may be inspected at the location noted above during normal office hours, Monday to Friday. Copies may be made and extracts taken therefrom, upon request.

204.759.3313

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

6

South Mountain Press

Friday, March 27, 2026

W heat K ings take on Hitm en Bra n don goes 2-1 in fin a l regula r sea son ga m es a n d n ow gets rea dy for firstroun d p la yoff m a tchup a ga in st Ca lga ry RYAN N ES BITT

and saw each team score two wins in their four regular season meetings.

So uth M o unta in Pre ss

The Brandon Wheat Kings wrapped up their regular season schedule last weekend and now the real fun begins as they get set for their first round playoff matchup against the Calgary Hitmen.

The series will follow a 23-2 format, not common for the first round, with the opening two games in Calgary on Friday, March 27 and Sunday, March 29. The series then shifts to Virden, where Brandon will play their home games due to building avail-

SASK AT O O N 6 BR AN DO N 2 ability issues with the Royal Manitoba Winer Fair. Brandon will host Calgary on Tuesday, March 31, Thursday, April 2, and if necessary, for game five on Friday, April 3.

In as close to an even series as you’ll find in the WHL, Brandon and Calgary were separated by just three points in the regular season,

Zach Olsen had a pair of goals to lead the Blades to a 6-2 win on Wednesday, March 18 in Saskatoon.

Hayden Harsanyi, Kazden Mathies, David Lewandowski, annd Elias Pul also scored for the Blades, who led 3-2 through two periods after the first period ended 1-1.

Luke Mistelbacher and Gio Pantelas had the Brandon tallies.

Evan Gardner stopped 16

U15 Ch iefs selected for P oE ca m p Several members of the Yellowhead U15 Chiefs have been selected to attend the U16 Program of Excellence (PoE) selection camp from April 10-12.

Players selected were Bentley Goulden of Virden, Sawyer Lepp of Rivers, Cooper Soltys of Erickson and Darby Wilson of Neepawa.

Also invited were Felix Huberdeau of Russell and Mason Auger and Easton Pitz of Virden.

Kale Nicol scored five straight goals as the Brandon Wheat Kings rallied from a 5-

3 deficit for a 9-7 win over the Eastman Selects to win their best of five Winnipeg U15 AAA Hockey League final series 3-0.

Brandon opened the series with a 5-1 win, followed by a 6-5 overtime decision.

W pg.W ild Red 3 C hiefs 2 Rocco Zarrillo scored twice as the Wild Red edged the Chiefs 3-2 in Shoal Lake on Tuesday, March 17 to win the best of five consolation final in three straight games.

Max Xing had the other goal for the visitors, who led 1-0 and 3-1 at the intermissions.

Landon Pawluk and Wade Kulbacki replied for the Chiefs.

Griffin Kraft earned the win in goal, making 30 saves.

Korey Stevenson stopped 31 shots in the Yellowhead net.

The Eastman Selects stayed alive in their best of five Manitoba Female U15 AAA Hockey League final with the Central Plains Capitals with a 5-4 overtime win on Saturday, March 21 in Portage la Prairie.

The Capitals won games one and two by scores of 3-2 and 3-1.

Vikings, Clip p ers go th e dista nce The Vincent Massey Vikings and Dauphin Clippers were heading to a deciding game in the best of three Westman High School Hockey League championship final.

The Vikings blanked the Clippers in game one in Brandon on Wednesday, March 18, but the Clippers dumped the Vikings 3-1 in

HIGH SCHOOL Dauphin the next evening.

The deciding game was to be played in Brandon on Monday, March 23.

The Boissevain-Deloraine-

Waskada-Pierson Broncos took a 1-0 lead in the consolation final with the RestonMelita-Souris-Hartney Renegades with a 5-3 win in Boissevain on Sunday, March 22.

Game two was slated for Reston on Monday, March 23, with a possible game three in Boissevain on Wednesday, March 25.

of 18 shots in a quiet night in goal for Saskatoon, while Filip Ruzicka made 28 saves for Brandon.

BR AN DO N 6 R E GIN A 3 The Wheat Kings got contributions from lower in the lineup as they vaulted past the Pats 6-3 in Regina on Friday, March 20.

Brett Wilson, Nigel Boehm, Prabh Bhathal, and Dylan Ronald scored for Brandon, while Joby Baumuller added a pair of empty net goals.

Maddox Schultz had two goals for Regina, with Ephram McNutt adding a single.

Jayden Kraus returned from injury in the Brandon net, making 24 saves. Marek Schlenker stopped 30 of 34 for Regina.

BR AN DO N 4 R E GIN A 2 The Wheat Kings closed out their regular season schedule with a 4-2 win against the visiting Regina Pats on Saturday, March 21.

Nicholas Johnson, Daniil Skvortsov, Brady Turko, and Luke Mistelbacher scored for Brandon, who led 1-0 after one and sat tied 2-2 through two periods.

Cohen Klassen and Zach-

ary Lanyard were the Regina marksmen.

Filip Ruzicka made 27 saves for Brandon, while Taylor Tabashniuk turned aside 37 in the Regina goal.

NEWS & NOTES: Luke Mistelbacher took the team scoring crown with 88 points, besting teammate Jaxon Jacobson by three points (in four more games played).

Mistelbacher also claimed the goal scoring title with 42.

Joby Baumuller finished second with 40... Brandon’s top scoring rookie was Chase Surkan, who had 20 goals and 38 points in 45 games.

H a ley Ch ip elski na m ed to U18 fem a le a ll-sta r tea m Haley Chipelski of the Yellowhead Chiefs was named to the Manitoba Female U18 AAA Hockey League’s second all-star team.

The rookie defenseman led the Chiefs in scoring with nine goals and 10 assists.

and 26, with a possible game five in Winnipeg on Sunday, March 29.

The Manitoba Female U18 AAA Hockey League final is tied 1-1 as each team recorded a shutout.

The Eastman Selects downed the Winnipeg Ice 50 in game one in Winnipeg on Wednesday, March 18.

Haley C hipelski The Selects rebounded with a 2-0 win over the Ice in Niverville on Sunday, March 22.

Games three and four were slated for March 24

The Winnipeg Bruins took a 1-0 lead in the best of five Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League final series against the Brandon Wheat Kings.

The Bruins doubled the Wheat Kings 4-2 in Winnipeg on Saturday, March 21.

Games two and three were to be played on March 23 and 25, with game four if necessary in Brandon on Friday, March 27.

W h a t’s N ew & Exciting? WE’D LOVE TO HEAR! Let us know what is happening in the South Mountain Press coverage area.

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South Mountain Press

Friday, March 27, 2026

7

U15 Y ELLOW HEAD AAA FEM ALE

U15 Y ELLOW HEAD AAA M ALE

Back row, from left: Eveline Wilson, Ella Sellman, Ruby Chegwin, Laney George, Scotia Smith, Brielle McGonigal.

Middle row, from left: Randy Bryant (assistant coach), Abby Anderson, Kenzie Gardner, Ella Rogasky, Alexis Duncan, Emory Frizzley, Ali O’Hara (assistant coach), Sheldon Rapley (manager).

Front row, from left: Teagan Knight, Pyper Rapley, Kennedy Kyle, Tori Murphy (head coach), Hadley Bryant, Kaydee Fleury, Halle Gray.

Back row, from left: Connor Smith, Wyatt Cochrane, Collin Beatty, Travis Lamb, Hayden Brown, Mason Stebeleski.

Middle row, from left: Asher Rothnie, Hayden Gray, Dexter White, Jayce Peters, Wade Kulbacki, Mason Graham, Bowe Bridges.

Front row, from left: Darby Wilson, Cooper Soltys, Bentley Goulden, Kurtis Quane (head coach), Layton Veitch (head coach), Sawyer Lepp, Landon Pawluk, Korey Stevenson.

U18 Y ELLOW HEAD AAA FEM ALE

U18 Y ELLOW HEAD AAA M ALE

Back row, from left: Avery McGonigal, Haley Chipelski, Callee Despiegelaere, Jayce Oakden, Courtney Cochrane, Nicole Rozdeba.

Middle row, from left: Chloe Facey, Khloe Brown, Devyn Moncur, Jordan Woloski, Erica Miko, Presley Hodson, Casey George, Rose Cochrane, Bryleigh Barnes.

Front row, from left: Derek Tibbatts (assistant coach), Kylie Hack, Sam Geekie (assistant coach), Emma Pollock, Logan McGonigal (head coach), Gracie Johnston, Sydney Murray (assistant coach).

Back row, from left: Carson Espenell, Nolan Kozak, Burke Dunits, Grady McNish, Destin Knight, Tyson Bridge, Oliver Nickel.

Middle row, from left: Carter Brown, Carter White, Redden Richmond, Bryce Gambler, Jake Smith, Ethan Turchinski, Wyatt Njegovan.

Front row, from left: Sawyer Wallin, Isaac McArthur, Alec Strachan, Taran Lacquette (head coach), Terance Lacquette (assistant coach), Brody Bohemier, Winston Lepp, Landon McGregor.

Missing from photo: Steve Richmond (assistant coach).

South Mountain Press

Friday, March 27, 2026

Ca refoot h onoured a s P h ila nth rop ist of th e Y ea r Dauphin: The Herald – Accepting the Dauphin and District Community Foundation’s (DDCF) Philanthropist of the Year Award for 2025, Tyler Carefoot said the honour was off the charts, as past recipients have driven his commitment to the community. Service to the community by Carefoot, a local businessman, was the driving factor behind the award. Involvement has included six years as president of Dauphin Minor Hockey Association, his 10 years as a director on the board of Dauphin’s Countryfest, his years as a minor hockey coach and coach of the Parkland Rangers U18 team plus his work organizing the annual Gary Brandon Memorial Golf Tournament. In accepting the award, Carefoot stressed the importance of the DDCF. Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – Wanting to have a user-friendly appeal and keep the look bright and open, a committee of 12 people, are seeking routes to keep the Bienfait Arena viable to serve the community of 820 people.

Built in 1957 with a round quonset-like roof, some feel upgrades versus building a new hockey rink would be a better fit, although cost of repairs is not cheap with an estimated price tag of $2.2 million.

Virden: The EmpireAdvance – Board members of the Manitoba Antique Automobile Museum are hoping the return of the snow plane, once owned by Doctor Joe Galloway, and the advertisement of the museum travelling with the antique fourseater on its tour across western Canada, will make the public more of what a hidden historical gem Elkhorn’s museum presents. It was Lisl Gunderman’s grandfather who purchased the snow plane, built by Fudge Industries of Moosomin, for $1,304 in 1947.

Boissevain: The Recorder – Before the municipality of Souris-Glenwood can move further on their strategic plan, council needs to look at their infrastructure plan.

Mayor Duane Davison said the municipality must look at both their water and sewage systems if the strategic plan is to grow the community.

Davison said the community has a lot to offer, including its recreational spaces, its proximity to Brandon, and the fact that it’s an affordable and safe community.

Whitewood: Grasslands News – Whitewood town council is reviewing financing options after being advised the Town’s $3.3-millin lagoon upgrade project could face a potential cost overrun of up to

Paper Clips News from MB/SK weeklies $1 million. Council discussed the issue during its Feb. 24 meeting, noting the overrun figure represents a worst-case scenario should similar issues be discovered in additional lagoon cells as work continues.

The project is supported by a $3.2-million Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program grant, with Whitewood responsible for 26.67 percent of costs and any expenses beyond approved funding.

Baldur/Glenboro: The Gazette – What began as a simple way to support her young sons involved in the 4H Beef Club in the mid-1990s, the dedication and commitment to the Glenboro Ag Society as a volunteer grew for Kathy Noel. A commitment spanning more than two decades of outstanding service saw Noel being presented with an Honorary Lifetime Membership to the non-profit organization last month. Noel said her biggest achievement was the organization’s resilience, coming through years of turmoil with the passing of a pair of fellow deeply dedicated volunteers in 2017 and the year after.

Neepawa: The Banner & Press – Lara Denbow and Daxx Turner, both of Neepawa, made history at the U Sports Nationals. The track and field athletes competed under the University of Manitoba Bisons’ banner. Denbow became only the third Bison student-athlete to win gold at an individual event at Nationals in three straight years, while Turner hit a triple jump of 16.17m. That distance broke a 30-year provincial senior indoor record and its fifth best indoor jump in Canadian track and field history.

Whitewood: Grasslands News – More than 800 students from across southeast Saskatchewan gathered over three days in February for a winter cultural learning event hosted by Whitewood School in partnership with Kakisiwew-Ochapowace colleagues. Organizers said the three-day celebration emphasizes cultural learning, community connection and handson experiences that encourage students to learn from the land and from one another.

RRSD em p hasizes safety, sup p orts follow ing incid ent D O N ALD BERGER So uth M o unta in Pre ss

Rolling River School Division (RRSD) is reaffirming its commitment to student and staff safety following a recent incident in Rivers that has drawn attention across the country.

In a statement released March 18, Superintendent Jason Cline confirmed that the division was notified by RCMP on the morning of March 16 that a student of Rivers Collegiate Institute had been arrested in connection with online threats.

The arrest took place while the student was riding a school bus.

Following the arrest, police attended the school as part of their ongoing investigation.

“The focus is on the safety and well-being of students and staff,” the division said in its statement, adding that it continues to work closely with RCMP to ensure schools remain safe.

While details remain limited due to the matter being before the courts, the division confirmed that supports have been put in place

at Rivers Collegiate. School administration is working alongside divisional leadership and clinical services to provide assistance for both students and staff.

For many families across the region, including in Minnedosa, the news has been unsettling. At the same time, the response highlights the coordinated systems in place between schools and law enforcement when concerns arise.

The involvement of RCMP, along with external agencies, underscores a broader framework de-

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8

signed to respond quickly and cautiously to potential risks, while prioritizing student safety.

Equally important is the role of in-school supports.

Clinical services and school staff are working to ensure that students have access to guidance and reassurance as the situation is processed within the school community.

Rolling River School Division noted that it is unable to provide additional details at this time due to the ongoing investigation.

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South Mountain Press

Friday, March 27, 2026

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

SUDOKU CHALLENGE 8 3 9 Forsythia is one ofthe best shrubs to plant for spring colour

An e a rly b la s t o f co lo u r fo r the ga rde n

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Hanbidge GAR D EN IN G tific but really it is quite simple. Water in the liquid form is made up of closely packed water molecules arranged in a haphazard manner. They are touching but are not in any particular order. When the water becomes frozen those randomly arranged molecules become more aligned and actually locked together in a more precise pattern. The ice crystal is more like a brick wall rather than a haphazard collection of individual bricks you would find in water in the liquid state.

When ice is formed, there is a tiny impurity in the water that begins the process of two molecules locking together or the crystallization process.

This impurity is termed the “ice nucleator”. What quickly follows is the continuing growth of the crystal which is what actually does the cell damage within the plant.

Plants that have the ability to supercool maintain the water in the cells in an ultra-pure state where no nucleators are present. When there are no tiny impurities present, the crystallization process does not begin and therefore the water can remain in the liquid from at temperatures lower than freezing. Absolutely pure water can remain liquid to a temperature of -38.1°C. Therefore, if during the winter the temperature within a forsythia bud does not drop below that super cooled temperature, the plants will flower in spring. Plants are so amazing!

If you would like to grow your own forsythia try the cultivar ‘Northern Gold’ as it is the hardiest species on the market. Happy almost spring!

Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www. orchidhort.com; email at growyourfuture@gmail.com or on facebook @orchidhort.

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Patricia

THE

After every winter, we are happy to see colour in the garden. From the landscape perspective, we would like to see our gardens filled with colour throughout the season and beyond. So how can we get early spring colour with some height? The answer of course is spring flowering shrubs.

One of the best shrubs to plant for spring colour is the forsythia (Forsythia ovata).

Spring is made so much better by this shrub that provides happy yellow blooms very early in spring – in fact before the shrub leafs out. On the prairies, if you see a shrub literally covered with bell-like bright yellow flowers it is sure to be the forsythia.

It is an easy shrub to grow, as the shrub itself is very hardy. However, the early blooming flowers are not as hardy as the rest of the plant.

The blossoms are only hardy to -38°C. It seems that most winters that temperature would be much colder than what is experienced but remember that not only the ambient temperature outside is important but that temperature along with the wind chill factor. Most years these lovely shrubs will be covered in blooms but sometimes you only see a flush of blooms along the bottom. This is because these blooms would have been more protected from cold winter temperatures than those flower buds higher up on the shrub due to the insulative properties of the snow cover.

So what exactly is it that kills a plant in winter? It is most often the fact that ice forms inside the cells of the plant. The cellular result is similar to putting a beverage in the freezer and forgetting to take it out before it freezes solid. It is usually a bit of a mess as the beverage container is unable to withstand the expanding force of ice forming within. The same thing happens within a plant cell. The hardiest plants will actually dehydrate their cells to the point where ice formation inside of them is simply impossible. For other plants that are less hardy like the forsythia they have adopted a different strategy of winter survival called super cooling.

This involves cooling the water to below the freezing point without the formation of ice.

This seems rather scien-

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South Mountain Press

Friday, March 27, 2026

Innova tive w a ys to p rotect your bra in h ea lth Dr.

Roizen H EALT H Y LIVIN G Don’t take supplements unless under a doctor’s guidance. 3). The shingles vaccine. A study of folks age 70plus found that the vaccine slowed biological aging, lowered levels of chronic inflammation and slowed changes in gene activity linked to aging, easing the risks for heart disease, frailty, and cognitive decline.

1s that are available, your body needs time to adjust to how it handles food, how your brain signals you when you are hungry, and how you make your food choices.

Slow and steady weight loss from improved nutrition and more physical activity, over months or even a year or more, gives you a foundation you can rely on to keep you healthy for the rest of your life.

But there are some pretty cool tricks that can help. For example, you can burn more calories using beige fat – without exercise – by reduc-

ing the amount of the amino acids methionine and cysteine that you consume from beef, eggs and full-fat dairy.

(Beige fat hangs out in your white fat and fuels your use of energy and calories.)

Danish scientists increased the calorie burn in lab mice by 20 percent when they reduced the intake of these amino acids. You can give it a try but don’t eliminate them – they’re essential. You can get what you need from sesame seeds, Brazil nuts, wheat germ, oats and beans.

Another cool trick to help

physical activity and embrace a plant-based diet.

You can succeed!

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, “The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow,” and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com.

Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

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Q: I need some new ways to reinforce my efforts to shed my excess body fat. It’s taking so long! -- T.D., Memphis A: Patience may be the ingredient that you are lacking. Transforming your body and your health is a lifelong commitment, not some oneand-done process. And when you’re losing weight fast, even with the amazing GLP-

you burn off fat faster: Increase your fiber intake through 100 percent whole grains, vegetables and fruits.

Stress reduction is also powerful. It helps you avoid comfort snacking and lowers circulating levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol tells your body to store fat, not burn it off. Meditation, tai chi, yoga, a daily walking routine, and having fun with your posse help manage stress.

Reinforce your fatbanishing efforts with these techniques and make sure to get in 300 minutes a week of

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Q: How can I keep sharp?

I’m 68, and I’ve begun to notice that I forget words, even people’s names. – Cindy P., Chicago, IL A: One new study echoes what I’ve been saying for years. In “Improving Your Biological Age Is Associated with Brain Health,” researchers determined the biological age of 250,000 people and found that when participants’ biological age (AKA ActualAge) was older than their chronological age, they had poorer cognition and a 41 percent higher risk of stroke and dementia.

When it was younger, they had healthier brains.

Fortunately, the cuttingedge techniques I outline in “The Great Age Reboot,” my free newsletter at michaelfroizenmd.substack.c om, and the “YOU The Owner’s Manual” podcast can make your ActualAge younger than your chronological age and protect your brain power.

Exercise is a powerful tool (you know that), and a new study shows that it works, in part, because it prompts the liver to release an enzyme that removes a harmful protein that can cause the blood-brain barrier to become leaky with age, increasing the risk for dementia.

Diet is important, too (of course). And a new study in JAMA Network confirms that the DASH diet, when followed in your middle years, significantly reduces your risk for cognition problems. Better cognitive function was associated with higher intake of vegetables and fish and lower intake of red and processed meats.

But real innovation in brain health comes from: 1).

Therapeutic plasma exchange, which I do. 2). The recent recognition that depletion of lithium in the body accelerates Alzheimer’s disease. You can get a healthy dose from leafy vegetables, potatoes, tomatoes, cabbage, lentils, chickpeas, nuts, and mineral water.

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D O ES F ACEBO O K SUP P O R T LO CAL? Has your organization ever called up Facebook and asked them for a donation to your cause?

Local businesses rely on local support to exist. Shop Local Today.

THIS AD COSTS

15

$

204-7 59-2644 s m p dis p la y@ m ym ts .n e t

(plus tax)

LESLIE Whitney Sharkey, CPA, CA

Howard Wirch, FCPA, FCGA

WOYWADA-BARNETT REAL ESTATE SALES PROFESSIONAL

Dauphin – 15-1st Avenue S.W. Phone: 204-638-3005 Brandon – C-1239 Princess Ave. Phone: 204-727-2468 Onanole – 126 Whirlpool Dr. Phone: 204-848-7413 Shoal Lake – 515 4th Ave. Phone: 204-759-2680

realestate@mymts.net www.ParklandRealEstate.biz

204.848.0599

R E ACH 3,000 R E ADE R S E VE R Y W E E K !

Auto, Home & Cottage, Commercial and Travel Insurance Ph: 204 636 2314 35 Main Street Fax: 204 636 7743 PO Box 336 Erickson, MB R0J0P0 Email: kristy.vermiere@north star.ca

sensus

MARTIN-LIBERTY REALTY INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Chartered Professional Accountants Ltd.

633 18th Street, Brandon, MB R7A 5B3

Russell – 209 Main St. N. – 204-773-2106 Shoal Lake – 426 Station Rd. – 204-759-2152 Brandon – 929 24th Street – 204-727-5577 AUDRA NYCHUK, CPA, CA • KYLE PAUL, CPA, CA TIFFANY BODNARIUK, CPA, CA • IAN MCMULLAN, CPA, CA • BRETT FORDYCE, CPA, CGA

Cell: 204 761 6680 Fax: 204 848 7320 JodyHanlon@royallepage.ca www.royallepagebrandon.ca

Jody Hanlon Sales Representative

“Your Local Clear Lake Specialist”

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS WEEKLY – CALL FOR RATES 204-759-2644 B

South Mountain Press

DEADLINE: Tuesday at 12:00 Noon

Friday, March 27, 2026

11

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

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

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

CO M IN G E VE N T S Dauphin Annual Gun and Hobby Show, Saturday, April 11, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Sunday, April 12, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., 304 Whitmore Ave. (8th Avenue Hall). Admission $7, under 12 free w/adult.

Approximately 80 - 8 ft. tables.

May contain guns/related items, military items, hobbies, crafts, antiques. Something of interest to everyone. This is a buying, selling and trading show. Bring your guns and collectibles. Buy-Sell-Trade or have appraised. Information Victor, 204-444-4690.

W AN T E D Licensed gun dealer looking for firearms in all classes, and anything firearms related. Inheritance assistance provided. Can store handguns during the ban. Call or text Keith 204-471-9015.

AR T ICL E S F O R SAL E Time to book your classified ads for spring 2026. Let us help you book a blanket classified ad across Manitoba, and increase your presence. Let people know about your business, item for sale or event by placing an ad with us. Your ad will be seen in the MCNA Member Newspapers, in over 368,000+ homes in Manitoba. Please call this newspaper 204-759-2644 to book

now or call MCNA at 204-9471691 for more details or to book ads. Taking advantage of our great pricing. MCNA - Manitoba Community Newspapers Association. www.mcna.com Did You Know? We print Personal and Business Cheques! 100 Personal Cheques $99 + taxes, call for pricing on Manual Business Cheques and Laser Business Cheques. Call Connie at 204-7592644 Ext. 2 or email ctwprinting @mymts.net. Nesbitt Publishing, Shoal Lake.

Window Envelopes! #20-A, 8 5/ 8” x 3 3/4” security, 500, reg. $85.99, sale $42.99; #10 Double Window, 9 1/2 x 4 1/8, security, 500, reg. $85.99, sale $42.99; #9 Window, 8 7/8 x 3 7/8, not security, 500, reg. $49.99, sale $24.99.

Inquire at Nesbitt Publishing in Shoal Lake, 204-759-2644 ext. 1.

N O T ICE S 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 204-7592644 ext. 1.

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

Though we cannot guarantee publi-

– IN M E M O R IAM –

Jo hn Bra s chu k

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

cation, MCNA will get the information into the right hands for only $35 plus GST. Call Manitoba Community Newspapers Association 204947-1691 for more information, See www.mcna.com under the ‘Types of Advertising’ tab for more details.

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 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 204759-2644 ext. 1.

Nothing is the same, every day has reminders, everything we do, you’re there, some of these memories bring tears and sadness but often smiles and laughter.

The one thing for sure is that not a day goes by that you don’t cross our minds.

Instead of learning to live without you, We’re learning how to carry your memory with us into each day. We are keeping our promises to you, checking on mom each day and looking after her as best as we can. Also making sure the grass is cut, the driveway is clear of snow, your cherished apple trees are well watered, your shows still play on TV and of course, reminding each other that “YOU CAN’T PARK THERE” ! lol We miss your smile, your laugh, your quirky ways, your stories, and most of all you, we miss YOU.

THIS AD COSTS

30

$

R E ACH 3,000 R E ADE R S E VE R Y W E E K !

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

ARCHIVIST The Minnedosa Regional Archives is seeking a part time Archivist.

As our Archivist, you’ll preserve fragile documents, bring order to complex collections, and enable researchers, students, and citizens to connect with their heritage in meaningful ways.

To view the Full Job Advertisement, please visit: https:// minnedosa.com/p/employment opportunities Resumes can be dropped off at the Town of Minnedosa – 103 Main St. S. or emailed to minarch@mymts.net.

Applications will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. on April 24, 2026.

An area full of recreational opportunities, parks, lakes, cultural events, a sense of community and much more!

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES ERICKSON, SHOAL LAKE & SANDY LAKE HEALTH FACILITIES Home Care Attendants & Health Care Aides Casual; Full Time & Part Time positions

Cook I & Dietary Aides Casual; Full Time & Part Time positions

Environmental Services (Housekeeping & Laundry) Casual & Part Time positions

ROLLING RIVER SCHOOL DIVISION

Licensed Practical Nurses & Registered Nurses Casual; Full Time & Part Time positions

SUMMER STUDENT POSITIONS Maintenance Worker Assistant 40 hours per week • Monday to Friday (alternate Fridays off work) (8 weeks - July 6 to Aug. 28, 2026) Mechanic Assistant/Detailer 32 hours per week • Monday to Thursday (8 weeks - July 6 to Aug. 28, 2026)

It’s wonderful how you keep us smiling with the countless daily reminders, the little signs we keep seeing, knowing it is you reminding us you’re still around and watching over us. Thank you for that.

Current Starting Rate of Pay – $17.68 per hour (under review - may increase)

We love you, we miss you and need you to know that your spirit has lived on in all of us.

Positions are based at division offices in Minnedosa, MB

To some you are forgotten, To others you’re part of the past.

But to those who really loved you, Your memory will last.

Rest easy… until we meet again.

All our love, Paula, kids and their families

The cost of advertising is small when you think of the number of people who will potentially attended your event simply because they saw your ad in this 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 204-7 59-2644 DOES NOT COST, (plus tax) IT PAYS! s m p dis p la y@ m ym ts .n e t

Minnedosa Regional Archives

Oct. 19, 1942 - April 1, 2025 They say the first year is the hardest and that time heals… however, each day passing without you, is a reminder of how much we miss you. There is a hole and emptiness that cannot be explained or replaced.

IN VEST IN AD VER T ISIN G!

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.

Recreation Worker – Uncertified (Shoal Lake, Sandy Lake) Part Time positions

JOIN THE HEALTH CARE TEAM! APPLY TODAY!

www. prairiemountainhealth.ca click on Careers An excellent health care benefit package that includes but limited to health & dental benefits, pension plan & a health spending account.

We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in Prairie Mountain Health however only those candidates selected 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.

12

South Mountain Press

Friday, March 27, 2026

‘Ch a m p ion Ch ild’ m a de a la sting im p a ct Children ’s H osp ita l F oun da tion con tin ue their w ork to help en sure tha tchildren getthe bestca re ex p erien ce p ossible D ARRELL N ES BITT So uth M o unta in Pre ss

Since 1971, with incredible donor support, the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba has raised more than $265 million to help children get the best care experience possible by funding leading edge equipment, improved healthcare spaces, and child and family-focused programs in hospital at Health Sciences Centre Children’s Hospital – Manitoba’s only Children’s Hospital.

The Foundation also supports more than 300 worldclass pediatric medical researchers, at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, involved in nearly $20 million of research and clinical trial activity each year with the goal of groundbreaking cures and clinicallyproven supports for pediatric care in Manitoba and around the world.

Backed by their mission… to improve the health of children everywhere, by inspiring our community to support excellence in child health care and child health research, five values are uplifted day in and day out.

They are: Passionate to increase the quality of life for infants, children and youth, Dedication to enhance child health care, Integrity to all we serve, Engaged volunteers, staff, donors and families, Accountability in that we do.

Inspiration for donors to give comes from a variety of routes including Manitoba’s Champion Children. In Manitoba, the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba is

Jack Johnson personally raised $8,310 for research honoured to be represented by these remarkable children who have triumphed despite severe medical challenges.

Manitoba Champions speak on behalf of the 140,000 sick and injured children who visit HSC Children’s Hospital annually as well as raise

PHOTO SUBM ITTED

funds for areas of greatest need.

From flying flags to fishing, Jack Johnson a bright and determined child who made a lasting impact and inspired donors over the past year as the Manitoba Champion Child for 2025. Born at

just 26 weeks, alongside his twin brother Jori, Jack faced heartbreaking challenges from the start. Tragically, Jori passed after six days.

Diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a dangerous buildup of fluid in his brain, Jack needed seven lifesaving

surgeries at HSC Children’s Hospital. Despite living with cerebral palsy, requiring mobility aids like walkers and canes, the former champion child’s resilience shines.

Beyond Jack and his family including parents, Samantha and Jason, speaking at over 40 events over 2025 and 2026, he had some unique experiences in his Champion year including handing out his own trading flag, raising his flag at Winnipeg City Hall for National Child Day, and exploring the flags at the Manitoba Legislative Building.

His parents understand that child health research translates to care at the children’s hospital that helped their son survive and thrive.

“The research is important for children like Jack because the advances in treatment and medication provides the ability for children like Jack to survive,” says his father. “Then, the specialists at the hospital have that knowledge. Their expertise really helps us stay informed

and calm because we know the best people are taking care of the situations.”

Jack inspired countless donors, including Ken Talbot, who took the lad fishing at Lake of the Woods.

“Jack is such an amazing kid,” Ken stated. “He is so full of energy and his enthusiasm reminds me why it’s important to give to the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba.”

As Champion, Jack also held his own fundraiser, presenting a cheque of $8,310 to support leading edge research into childhood illness at Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba.

If your event or organization is raising funds to support sick and injured children who need the hospital, you may be eligible to have a past Champion Child attend and speak about the importance of the hospital. These kids are excellent speakers and can support your audience to have a greater understanding and connection to the cause.

– Online Only Auction – 26034GT0

BEN FOX RANCH SURPLUS Dauphin, MB

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8 Soft Close at 7:00 p.m.

VISIT www.gartonsauction.com for equipment details, pictures, and bidding.

Previewing April 3-5, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or call Ben at 204-647-5060 info.

TRACTORS, VEHICLE: JD 8760 4wd tractor, duals, 8953 hrs; JD 7320 FWA tractor, 10,562 hrs; JD 241 mech self-level loader, bucket, grapple, etc; Bobcat 7’ skid steer snow blade; JD D tractor on steel; 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS 4dr; FARM AND LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT: Supreme 700T silage mix wagon, electronic scale/monitors, 1000rpm; 2014 JD 569 baler, 1000pto; Haybuster 2660 bale processor, 1000pto; Case IH DC132 rotary mower conditioner, Honda GX630 twin cyl, etc; 2013 Easy Rake 10-wheel V rake; 1000pto; Brandt 840 grain auger; other augers; round bale trailer; metal panels, walkway, troughs, feeders, calf shelter trailer for panels; round/square tubing; steel pipes; electric fencing system, materials; TitanNet electric mesh fencing new/ used; posts, snow fence; fence stapler, staples; poly tanks, sprayers, baler twine, forks, shovels, bucket heater 1000w; camera system, lighting; YARD, RECREATION: Snowblower, electric start; ammo box; golf clubs, toys, bicycles; TOOLS AND SHOP: Small tools, jacks, chains, tarps; toolboxes, heaters; 1200W generator, 80cc, never used; 4400lb pallet jack; oil filters, grease, paint, etc. HOUSEHOLD, OTHER ITEMS: Furniture, 5-L Acrosteel chafing dishes; Casio keyboards; license plates, variety of equipment manuals and much more!

BID NOW AT WWW.GARTONSAUCTION.COM Terms: Same day payment on all purchases; we accept cash or credit card; All items sold as is, where is; Auctioneer and owners not responsible for errors or omissions; Sale is subject to additions and/or deletions; Auctioneer not responsible for any accidents. No buyer’s premiums.

Auction Service SERVING THE PARKLAND AND SURROUNDING AREAS SINCE 1992

PO BOX 543 DAUPHIN, MB R7N 2V3 Phone: (204) 629-2583 Cell: (204) 648-4541 garton@inetlink.ca www.gartonsauction.com