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SMP - May 8, 2026

Page 1


South Mountain P re s s

REFLECTION

DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS

With the Little Saskatchewan River running through parts of the South Mountain area, nature’s beauty is uplifted by pairings of large water loving birds – ducks, geese, pelicans, and swans – along its winding channel. This pair of Canada Geese was photographed just off the riverbank recently, enjoying the free flowing water under sunny skies. The population of this large species of goose, commonly found within the region, is increasing.

Garage sale season is fast approaching

RACHEAL FLINTOFT

South Mountain Press

The yard sale lawn signs are going up across the region, but this year you may notice that there seems to be quite a few more dotting the landscape.

As yard sale season gets underway, communities across the region are already getting organized.

Along with many individual sales that pop up, communities are beginning to organize their townwide sales coming up in the weeks ahead.

But for many residents, it is not just about clearing out the garage. It is about making ends meet. With grocery bills, fuel costs and household expenses all higher than they were even one year ago,

families are finding value on both sides of the transaction – selling what they no longer need and buying what they do at a fraction of the retail price. Overall, all thrift shopping has gone up – both Erickson’s SCORE Store experiencing an uptick in people through their doors.

A good find at a neighbour’s yard sale can mean the difference

between buying new and making do... and right now, making do is something a lot of people are looking for.

There is also the added benefit of garage sales and thrift stores being a sustainable shopping experience, good for the planet and the environment.

Getting out to take in the morning air at your community garage

sales is also great exercise, and provides a “thrill of the hunt” experience... you truly never know what treasures may await you. Sales are happening regionwide, with plenty more still to be announced. Looking to save a few dollars? Watch your local paper for listings as the season gets underway.

Mun.of ClanwilliamErickson

Council of the Municipality of Clanwilliam-Erickson sat for a public hearing in conjunction with the April 15 regular meeting for consideration of variance and conditional use order applications.

Public hearings were held for…

Kent and Lynell Wazura (Variance): Approved, allowing the front yard to be reduced from 30 feet to l4 feet for an accessory building on Lot 3, Block 2, Plan 36558 located within the rural area of the municipality. Subject to the condition the required front yard setback shall be a minimum of 15 feet for any accessory building. In Favour – Councillor Burgess, Councillor Cameron, Councillor Johnson, Councillor Shellborn; Opposed – Reeve Baraniuk, who requested the recorded vote.

Maurice and Dorothy Beatty (Conditional Use): Approved, allowing a rural nonfarm dwelling on Pt. SE 30-1818W located in the “A80” General Agricultural Zone.

Maurice and Dorothy Beatty (Variance): Approved, allowing the minimum site area for two lots created by subdivision to be reduced from 6,000 square feet to 5,800 square feet, and to reduce minimum required side yard of the Proposed Lot 1 from 12 feet to 0.5 feet for existing accessory building, regarding Lot 11, Plan 675.

Brigitte Sandron and Parker Buckley met with council in regards to Clear Lake Country, which is driving economic growth across the region. The delegation reported it represents the communities surrounding Riding Mountain National Park, and continued growth depends on sustained regional support. It is felt business planning is assisted by multi-stakeholder involvement, as tourism results in major economic impact in the region, with an opportunity to expand winter tourism. With staff housing being a critical barrier to growth in the region, Clear Lake Country has established a housing task force to accelerate seasonal and permanent workforce housing. A request was put forth to see Clanwilliam-Erickson invest $15,000 each year in Clear Lake Country for the next three years, to help achieve strategic goals that will benefit the community.

Rick Proven and Emma Monias, representatives of the Erickson & Area Food Bank, reported to council on the Erickson & Area Food Bank Annual Community Impact Report. The report touched on challenges associated with operating two buildings, the

food bank is currently experiencing financial difficulties with previous government grants not available. With 220 registered participants currently, versus 47 in 2017, financial assistance is being requested from local governments in the region whose residents use the service. Assistance could take the form of tax relief or cash.

Laurence Bertram of the Riding Mountain Biosphere Reserve (RMBR), which comprises the municipalities that surround Riding Mountain National Park, reported the RMBR’s 10-year review has been submitted and UNESCO reviewers are coming to the area this spring. Council will be invited to attend the review events.

Third and final reading was given to By-law No. 10826, a by-law to create and augment a reserve for upgrades to the Clanwilliam-Erickson Curling Rink ice plant. In Favour – Reeve Baraniuk, Councillor Johnson, Councillor Shellborn, Councillor Burgess, and Councillor Cameron. Opposed – nil.

First and second readings were given to By-law No. 11026, a by-law to create a reserve fund for upgrades to the floor in the Erickson & District Skating Arena, and to By-law No. 109-26, a by-law to impose and levy real property taxes for 2026.

Based on an application for operating funding for the year 2026 by Service to Seniors, council will award the organization with $500.

Council approved the water operator service contract with the Municipality of Harrison Park, as presented by CAO Iain Edye. Councillor Cameron left the meeting while Resolution No. 86/26 was dealt with.

Council members were approved to attend the Community Futures Westman event “Creative Communities and the Experience Economy on May 11 in Shoal Lake.

Council appointed John Braschuk Jr. to the role of Fire Chief, and Kerrie Butler to the role of Deputy Fire Chief.

Council directed administration to invest $510,000 from the Utility Operating Fund in a one-year term deposit.

Council approved the Direct Deposit Agreement, the Letter of Undertaking for PreAuthorized Debit Plans, and the Automated Funds Transfer Service Agreement with Compass Credit Union, for the purpose of implementing a Tax Installment Payment Plan, Utility Accounts over 90 days past due, totaling $1,827.89 will be transferred to the respective property tax account.

Council approved the renewal of the pasture land lease agreement with Wendell Chemerika for SE 7-18-17W.

READY TO ROLL DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS

Serving the communities of Onanole and Wasagaming as well as part of the Municipality of Harrison Park and Riding Mountain National Park, the Onanole & District Fire Department along with the Clanwilliam-Erickson Fire Rescue are extending a request to be mindful of the risk of wildfires whether you’re working land, enjoying cabin life, or spending time outdoors, as precautions make all the difference. In terms of burning and outdoor fires, citizens and guests are encouraged to check local burn restrictions before lighting any fire, and if allowed, fully extinguish after use.

SUSTAINABLE SHOPPING

Thrifting is one of the simplest ways to shop more sustainably without falling into overconsumption.

Buying secondhand items, usually clothes, furniture, or housewares, instead of buying new, saves money, and reduces waste. Beyond the hunt for a certain item, thrifting is about rethinking how we value things. It is part economic choice, part environmental action, and part cultural shift.

Thrifting means a number of things, but at its core, it means keeping good to great items in use. When you thrift, you are choosing to buy what already exists, something with a past and often better craftsmanship than what is made new today.

Every secondhand purchase skips the energy, water, and waste needed to make something from scratch. Thrift stores also provide affordable access to clothing and essentials while funding local programs, charities, and shelters.

What once belonged only to people trying to save money now speaks to a wide community that values reuse and creativity.

Prior to thrift shop doors opening, churches and charities began running thrift or nearly new sales such as the Westminster United Church’s ongoing spring and fall event in Shoal Lake, selling donated goods at low, low prices, as a fundraising means.

Thrifting became more popular when young people began to shop secondhand to reject mass consumer culture and find one-of-a-kind style. Vintage became a statement.

Today, thrifting is mainstream but still meaningful. It is a mix of practicality and ethics, a way to save and experiment.

With the opening of each new thrift store, thrifting keeps items in circulation, by supporting local citizens’ wants and needs, plus communities, as environmental waste is reduced.

RESOURCEFULNESS

From the north to the south, more than a handful of thrift stores are operating, including the newest known as Miniota Thriftique, opening on a relatively quiet Main Street compared to days gone by.

The idea began to percolate when Delbert Cole, a Prairie View Municipality councillor, identified a thrift store as a community opportunity, noting The Value Shoppe in

Birtle generated in the neighbourhood of $18,000 in 2025. Those funds assisted in the Birdtail Valley community programs.

A committee of Pat Cole, Heather Lelond, Dorothy Gow, Tracy Lelond-Young, and Dawn Wenzel, with the assistance of Harry Wenzel as handy man, turned an empty space into a community thrift outlet.

Likewise, Thriftique’s net revenue will be put back into the Miniota community through the Miniota and Area Foundation.

The store is open three days per week – Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday – in the front of the building owned by

the Community Development Corporation. With family members or friends coming together often they make it a day of thrifting, stopping at various locations, enjoying coffee and conversation. To the north, there

are thrift stores in Rossburn and Russell, and travelling in a southeastern direction one will find the Hamiota R Store and the Hamiota Thrift Shop. Further south there is Thrift and Thrive in Oak Lake, and New to You in Virden. The

Thursday, May 14

11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Soup, Biscuits/Bannock, Pie & Beverage • Lunch $15 Guest Speaker at 1:00 p.m.

JOE BALL & SHEREE BLACKSMITH Discussion & Perspectives on MAID

towns of Erickson, McAuley, Melita, Minnedosa, Neepawa plus Brandon also offer a host of hidden treasures for those who enjoy thrifting.

Main reasons why thrift-

ing continues to grow…

1). Affordability – Thrifting makes clothing, furniture, and household goods more accessible to everyone.

2). Quality – Many older items were built to last. Thrifting is often the best way to find strong materials and better construction.

3). Sustainability – Buying secondhand reduces the demand for new manufacturing and keeps usable goods out of landfills, even though some municipalities now offer a take policy.

4). Creativity – Thrifted items let people express personal style without following trends.

5). Community Support –Many thrift stores fund local charities, skating programs, and stand behind needs of other organizations. Each thrift purchase is a small act of resourcefulness. It supports people and systems working quietly to extend the life of everyday objects. Manitoba’s business community is driven by people, who see possibility where others see challenge, and consumers are the bread winners because of the dedication.

Senior Election Official (SEO) Municipality of Harrison Park ERICKSON & DISTRICT PALLIATIVE CARE is hosting a BUTTERFLY LUNCHEON

Please be advised that a general municipal election will be held on Oct. 28, 2026.

Prospective municipal election candidates must register with the Senior Election Official (SEO) during the registration period before they may begin to accept contributions, incur expenses, fundraise or borrow money for their campaign.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I will be receiving candidate registrations:

For the office of head of council:

Between May 1, 2026 and Sept. 22, 2026 For the office of councillor: Between June 30, 2026 and Sept. 22, 2026 at the Municipality of Harrison Park Municipal Office, located at 43 Gateway Street, in Onanole, MB, during regular hours of business.

To obtain a registration form, contact the SEO at the telephone number listed below.

Chad Davies Senior Election Official Ph: 204-848-7614 Fax: 204-848-2082 Email: admin@harrisonpark.ca

Dated at Onanole, MB on April 23, 2026. Chad Davies

DARRELL NESBITT
Erickson Lutheran Church 30-3rd St. S.W. Erickson, MB

RCMP respond to fatal ATV collision

On May 3, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a single ATV collision on Road 46 East in the Rural Municipality (R.M.) of Tache. Police, fire and emergency medical services attended and located a male pinned underneath a flipped ATV. Officers determined the male had lost control of his ATV after attempting to negotiate a turn and the ATV landed on top of him. The 46-yearold male, from the R.M. of Tache, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The male was not wearing a helmet and alcohol is not believed to be a factor.

On May 3, RCMP visited a Dauphin residence to execute a warrant of arrest on a male wanted on multiple theft-related charges. After announcing themselves, officers from the RCMP Manitoba West District General Investigation Section, assisted by Dauphin RCMP and Dauphin Police Dog Services, entered the Hawthorne Avenue home and located an adult male who said he was home alone. Officers then searched the home and found a hidden room behind a false wall. Inside the room, RCMP found various weapons as well as a trap door that led to a second hidden room. After about 20 minutes, the suspect inside that second room surrendered to police, came out of the room and was taken into custody without incident. A 48-yearold male of Dauphin has been charged with: Resisting arrest; and Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. He had previously been charged with: Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000; Theft over $5,000; Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000; Flight from peace officer; and Failure to comply with an undertaking x2. He was remanded into custody. The other occupant of the home,

RCMP Briefs

a 35-year-old Dauphin male, was arrested and faces charges of obstructing police. He was released on a promise to appear in court at a later date.

On May 1, Bloodvein RCMP responded to a report of a capsized canoe on Long Body Creek, near Bloodvein First Nation. With the assistance of a community volunteer, Bloodvein RCMP and First Nation Safety Officers were taken by boat to a riverbank about five kilometres upstream from Rice River Road, where a family of three were located. The volunteer shuttled them to and from the scene. One of the individuals, a 47-year-old male, went into medical distress once removed from the water. He died shortly after arrival at the local nursing station. The two other occupants of the canoe, a 44-yearold female and a 12-year-old female, suffered non-lifethreatening injuries and were taken to hospital.

On May 1, Headingley RCMP responded to a twovehicle head-on collision on Highway 3, just south of Sanford. Headingley RCMP, fire and emergency medical services attended immediately. They learned that a vehicle travelling north on Highway 3 had swerved all over the road before colliding head-on with a southbound vehicle. In total, five people were injured as a result of the collision. The 52-year-old male

driver of thesouthboundvehicle was treated for minor, non-life-threatening injuries. His two 14-year-old daughters, who were passengers in the vehicle, suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries. They remain in hospital. The two occupants of the other vehicle were transported to hospital in critical condition. The driver, a 25year-old male from StAdolphe, and the passenger, a 19-year-old male, remain in critical condition.

On April 30, RCMP received a report that approximately $1,200 worth of clothing, shoes and auto parts had been stolen from two businesses on Sissons Drive in Portage la Prairie. Officers located an adult male and female matching the suspect descriptions a short distance away, walking west towards another store. Officers arrested the couple after entering a business on Saskatchewan Avenue West, with various items still in hand. The male was wearing a sweater with the security tags and price tag still attached. While searching the male suspect, a set of car keys attached to a local auto dealership’s keychain was found. Further investigation revealed the vehicle was registered to the auto dealership. The couple had been at

the dealership earlier in the day, had taken the vehicle for a test drive and then taken the keys off of someone’s desk after returning with the salesperson. A 44year-old female of Winnipeg has been charged with: Theft under $5,000 x2; Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000; and Failure to comply with an undertaking. A 47-year-old male of St. Eustache has been charged with: Theft under $5,000 x2; and Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. The pair were held in custody overnight, pending a court appearance.

On April 30, Lundar RCMP received a report of a missing 23-year-old male from Lake Manitoba First Nation. Later, Lundar RCMP received information that the missing person may have suffered lifethreatening injuries and his whereabouts were still unknown. First Nation Safety Officers, Police officers from the local detachment, along with RCMP Police Dog Services and a drone operator, attended Lake Manitoba First Nation to gather information and locate the missing person. RCMP and First Nation Safety Officers located the missing person deceased in a wooded area in the community. His death is being in-

Municipal Minutes

Council will donate $1,500 to the Erickson & Area Food Bank.

CAO Edye advised council on a number of matters including Water Rate Study update, update on town entrance sign, sewer issues, Building Sustainable Communities grant for Development Plan –option to use unspent funds, and Assiniboine West Watershed District meeting to pre-

sent Rolling River watershed hydrologic model.

April17 SpecialMeeting

At a special meeting on April 17, council gave third and final reading to By-Law No. 109-26, a by-law of the Municipality of ClanwilliamErickson to impose and levy real property taxes for 2026.

Fax: 204-759-2521 News: smpnews@mymts.net

Advertising: smpdisplay@mymts.net

Classifieds: smpclassified@mymts.net Circulation: smpcirculation@mymts.net

Greg NESBITT

vestigated as a homicideand Manitoba RCMP Major Crime Services has taken carriage of the investigation. Further investigation led to the arrest of a 23-year-old male from the community who remains in police custody.

On April 29, Little Grand Rapids RCMP were notified by Pauingassi First Nation Safety Officer that they had

responded to a stabbing in the community. The victim, a 29-year-old male from the community, was located deceased at a residence. His death is being investigated as a homicideand Manitoba RCMP Major Crime Services has taken carriage of the investigation The suspect, a 20year-old male from Pauingassi First Nation, was later arrested.

Municipality of Harrison Park

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 persons who wish to make them in respect to the following matter:

MUNICIPALITY OF HARRISON PARK BY-LAW NO.179 being an AMENDMENT to the RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF HARRISON ZONING BY-LAW NO. 1381, as amended

HEARING Municipality of Harrison Park

LOCATION: Council Chambers at 43 Gateway Street Onanole, MB R0J 1N0

DATE & TIME: May 20, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.

GENERAL INTENT To rezone Pt. of SW-9-18-20 as shown OF BY-LAW outlined in a heavy solid line and attached NO. 179: hereto as Schedule “A” and forming part of this by-law, be re-classified: From: “AL” Agricultural Limited Zone To: “R” Residential Zone

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.

PBR rolls through Brandon

Coming to ride, a pair of young Quebec bull riders sat atop the leaderboard after two nights of explosive action were unleashed with the return of Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Canada’s Mazergroup Chute Out at Assiniboine Credit Union Place in Brandon.

Nineteen-year-old Jeremy Masionneuve of Val-desmonts, QC, was the sole bull rider to go three-for-three on the May 1 and 2 weekend. Riding Effective for an 85.2 in the first round on Friday, he went deep on Linebacker in the second round for a score of 86.2 and then posted the high score of the weekend with an 89.7 on Moonwalk in the championship round for his first Canada Cup Series win. His achievement at Manitoba’s only PBR Canada Cup Series event, propelled him from 12th in the national rankings to No. 2. His buddy, Jayden Roy, 18, of Mascouche, QC, was right there with him after the two nights of high and low results for the 26 riders on site. Making his debut in the Wheat City, Roy picked up where he left off on Friday, finishing second overall, after posting a score of 86.8 aboard Linebacker on Friday (best of the night), and getting by ThunderDown Under

for an 86.1 in Saturday’s second round. In the championship round, his draw Grand Funk, bucked him off.

“He looked phenomenal, riding a bull that a lot of guys don’t get along with and won the round on Friday, a

really great way to start your PBR Canada Cup Series career,” commented Tanner Byrne, one of three bullfight-

riding fans witnessed on opening night, was no fluke in terms of these two athletic male components, as the two switched positions when the PBR contingent left the third Cup Series event in 2026, continuing in May at Hamilton, ON on the 30th. Opening night bull and rider were selected by a random draw, while on the second night the draw was determined by a draft, seeing the top 10 riders advancing to the championship round and one final ride to crown a winner based on aggregate total of their three scores.

Delighted to be back on Manitoba soil, Ashton Sahli of Red Deer, AB shared these words in an interview with host, Alicia Erickson. “As a competitor it’s extremely hard to stay 100 percent healthy over a season, so we must take the highs with the lows. Sport Medicineis on board to keep us on the back of bulls, and mentally the long drives with buddies are made a whole lot shorter thanks to great listening tunes on the radio, sleeping, or sharing banter with the boys.”

ers, taking care of business.

“I’m looking for this kid’s career to unfold.” What a full house of bull

Pumping up the crowd even further, Sahli wrapped up his interview, by stating, “If you are not here, you are at the wrong place” prior to heading back to the dressing room to prepare to ride alongside his brother Carter.

Bullrider Francisco Costa took his shot at an eight second ride at the

Growing heirlooms in your garden - pt.1

Sometimes it may be confusing when you are purchasing seeds or bedding plants. There are always new names and guides coming out on what to grow and what not to grow. Let’s break it down to the basics, so hopefully you are able to make good choices. Much of what we commonly grow in the garden are hybrid plants. The seeds from hybrids should not be saved as what is grown from that saved seed will not necessarily become the expected plant. Hybrid seeds result from what is considered a terminal cross as the two parent plants that were crossed resulted in the production of a seed that is superior to the parent plants in some way. These plants that are grown from the hybrid seed are often faster growing, with more colour or bigger fruit or simply better disease resistance. However, if you save the seed from these hybrid plants, the seed will not produce a plant or a product that is the same as what you grew.

However, if you grow heirloom or heritage plants – that heirloom seed can be saved and planted year after year. Although they are naturally pollinated, they will produce seeds that are “true” and thus when collecting this seed, you will have the opportunity to grow a plant that is very similar to the parent plant. When a seed is described as “coming true”, it will grow, flower, and produce fruit that looks like the parent plants. Seed that does not ‘come true’ will often be seed that has two different parents from the same plant family. For example, green beans will cross-pollinate with yellow beans resulting in beans that can be either green or yellow or some combination of both colours. When planting a garden to use for seed production, remember that it is important to plant single varieties of those plants you plan to save seed from. Planting only non-hybrid green beans will mean that you will have green bean seeds that will produce true green beans the following year. Keep in mind that if your neighbour is growing vegetables, there can also be cross-pollination between their varieties of vegetables and yours. Maybe you can partner with each other and

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

each grow different types of vegetables but then share the produce. You’ll have double the garden space, more vegetables and new friends for life.

There are many good reasons to grow heirlooms. There is something quite romantic to growing plants whose seeds have been passed down through the generations. It pleases me to be able to grow a plant that is almost identical to those plants my grandparents grew. Although these plants are naturally pollinated by wind, insects or other means, the characteristics of heirloom plants have developed naturally over a long period of time and thus, their characteristics are stable so your harvest will be what you expect. Over time, these plants have developed growth habits specific to certain climates and resistance to common disease issues so are definitely another reason to grow heirlooms. Another extremely important reason to grow heirlooms is by doing this you are helping to maintain plant diversity and ensuring that we do not lose valuable traits. Heirlooms have unique flavours, enhanced nutritional benefits with the added bonus of preserving and sharing seeds.

Therefore, if your goal this growing season is to grow at least some heirlooms and save your own seed, then it is important for you to plant seed that is considered heirloom or heritage in nature. Do some research, or ensure you do not miss this series of articles on growing heirlooms.

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

Patricia Hanbidge GARDENING
Heirloom pumpkins

DEADLINE: Tuesday at 12:00 Noon

Place your Classified Advertisement by Phone, Fax, Mail or E-mail

Ph: 204-759-2644 Ext. 1 Fax: 204-759-2521 E-mail: smpclassified@mymts.net

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

COMING EVENTS

Erickson Wing Night and Meat Draw on Saturday, May 9 starting 6:30 p.m. Pie Auction at 8:00 p.m. Proceeds to the Capital Fund for a new Ice Plant. Location: Erickson Rec Centre, 29 Queen Elizabeth Road.

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.

ARTICLES FOR SALE

Book your blanket classified ads to promote your business, sales, real estate, organization, on-line meetings, recruitment, etc. We book classified ads, Response and Power Builder Ads across Manitoba. Let people know about your business, items 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 $113.99 + taxes, call for pricing on Manual Business Cheques and Laser Business Cheques. Call Connie at 204-

Engagement

Brock and Joan (Wall) Neilson are very happy to announce the engagement of their son Erik Neilson to Tiffany Vuignier daughter of Hubert and Lorraine Vuignier of Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes, MB. Wedding is set for Aug. 1, 2026. To kick off the celebration, a wedding social is planned for Saturday, May 9 in Rathwell, MB.

759-2644 Ext. 2 or email ctwprinting@mymts.net. Nesbitt Publishing, Shoal Lake.

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

2017 Polaris Rzr S 1000 sideby-side, red in color, 4,732 miles, winch, half windshield and mirrors. Regular maintenance. Never swamped. Second owners. Extra belt and oil included, $14,000 OBO. Located in Rossburn. Text/ call 204-859-6969.

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.

SEED FOR SALE

Forage Seed For Sale: Organic & Conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Birch Rose Acres Ltd., 306-921-9942.

Classified Advertising Rates

Minimum 25 words $7.00, additional words 25¢ (plus GST) Extra weeks are one-half original cost • Not responsible for errors in handwritten submissions Special rate for Obituaries, Cards of Thanks, In Memoriams

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

NOTICES

Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. 403-543-0927. www.firstand secondmortgages.ca

Does Facebook support local? 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.

HELP WANTED

has immediate openings for the following positions:

■ Autobody Technician

We are looking to hire a JOURNEYMAN AUTOBODY TECHNICIAN for a busy auto shop. Would consider third or fourth year apprentice. Applicant should be able to work on all makes and models and perform quality repairs as per industry standards.

■ Light Duty Mechanic

We are looking to hire a full-time JOURNEYMAN LIGHT DUTY MECHANIC. Would consider fourth year apprentice. Duties to include, but not limited to: general engine and mechanical repairs, electrical service diagnosis, oil changes, install and balance tires, perform tire rotations, etc.

All applicants must be organized, highly motivated, and have a keen eye for detail. Individuals should have excellent communication and people skills and take pride in delivering outstanding customer service and quality workmanship.

We offer competitive pay and a positive work environment. Applicant must possess a positive attitude and the ability to work as part of a team.

Drop off resumes: Shoal Lake Rad & Glass, 316 Elm St., Shoal Lake, MB

Email: shoallakeradglass@gmail.com

Phone: 204-759-2251

We appreciate your interest but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY

“TREATY FOUR - 1874” “As long as the sun shines, grass grows and river flows” 204-759-2644 ext 1 smpclassified@mymts.net

SOUTHQUILL TRAINING PROGRAM

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Southquill INTERIM Daycare Supervisor

Employment and Training is seeking applications for the position of a 6-month Interim Daycare Supervisor for the Southquill Daycare. The Daycare supervisor will be responsible for providing learning and nourishment to the children registered in the program. The Daycare supervisor will be supervising staff and children. They should display a friendly and positive attitude and greet parents and children by their name.

Daycare Supervisor Responsibilities:

• Managing staff and their work schedules.

• Monitoring and supervising the children constantly.

• Maintaining a safe and positive environment.

• Cultivating relationships with children, parents, and guardians.

• Writing reports as needed.

• Registering new parents/children into the program.

• Greeting parents and addressing children by their name.

• Adhering to procedures in scheduling.

• Cognitive learning activities.

• Provide planning for weekly activities.

• Other duties, as deemed necessary.

Daycare Supervisor Requirements:

• Certificate in Early Childhood Education or over 2 years of work experience in the field.

• First Aid Training.

• Child Abuse Registry Check.

• Adult Abuse Registry Check.

• Criminal Record Check and a Vulnerable Sector Check.

• Basic computer literacy.

• Excellent communication skills.

• Drivers License and reliable vehicle.

Please submit resumes and signed cover letters before May 14, 2026, by 4:00 p.m. and addressed to: Warren Kirkness

Employment and Training Coordinator Email to wkirkness@rrfn.net or deliver to admin office Box 606, Erickson, MB R0J 0P0 Ph: (204) 636-2983 636-7834 (866) 848-4947 Fax: (204) 636-7806

South Mountain Press

Wildfire smoke’s health risks

Q: Last year, my 16-yearold son, who has asthma, had a lot of trouble when the wildfire smoke came into upper New York state. What can I do this year to make it better for him – and the whole family? – Carey T., Buffalo, NY

A: Data from the National Interagency Fire Center says that already this year, there have been more than 15,000 fires consuming more than 1.5 million acres. And we’re just heading into peak fire season. The health risks associated with air pollution from wildfires are profound – for folks with respiratory disorders or heart disease – and everyone else. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to the smoke, even hundreds of miles from the source, can diminish brain function. In addition, for folks living in or near the fires, there are immediate emotional issues, such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. And if you’re near a fire, your risk of a heart attack in the following days jumps by 30%.

It all takes a toll. A recent study in Science Advances says that long-term exposure to wildfire smoke particles is contributing to around 24,000 deaths annually in the lower 48 states.

So, how can you make sure you and yours don’t suffer from exposure to the toxins and micro-particles wildfire smoke contains?

– Keep track of local air quality. Go to the Air Quality Index at airnow.gov.

– Keep windows closed, run HEPA filter air cleaners, or use high-efficiency filters

you have a unique

(preferably MERV 13 or higher) in central air conditioning units. – Don’t smoke, use gas appliances, fry foods, use aerosol sprays, or run vacuum cleaners without a HEPA filter in your home while air quality is poor outside.

– When going outside, wear a NIOSH-approved N95 or P100 respirator. To learn more about respirators, go to cdc.gov/niosh and search for “respirators.”

Also, enjoy my free newsletters on “Why Environmental Health Matters” (at michaelfroizenmd.substack.c om). The latest focuses on air quality.

Q: My doctor read me the riot act because I told him I had evidence that I didn’t need to worry about how much salt I ate. The presenter on YouTube said he was knowledgeable, and I thought what he said made sense. How could I have known it was bad advice? –Tory Y., Lexington, KY

A: Chatbots, AI and social media “influencers” are cranking out misleading and

Emailus today at smpnews@mymts.net

false info all the time –whether intentionally or through mistaken ideas, or, in the case of AI, lousy algorithms that aggregate whatever is out there without being able to evaluate it.

One recent study in Communication Medicine found that AI chatbots can be easily misled by false medical details and then go on to expand on them. In fact, when a blatant medical falsehood was implanted into an exchange, the chatbot repeated or elaborated on it up to 83% of the time. Another study in BMJ Public Health says that

when researchers screened more than 6,000 articles, they found that misinformation on smoking, alcohol, diet, blood pressure and diabetes – especially on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X – was prevalent.

The obvious solution is to double-check everything. Even health advice that is supposedly from a reliable source can be false – remember the AI-generated fake Dr. Sanjay Gupta videos pushing an unfounded weight-loss technique? So, do your research. Stick with longestablished sources like

Medical News Today and medical organizations like the American Heart Association.

Duke University School of Medicine also has a cool solution: Don’t use AI as a primary source. Instead, scan in a medical journal article or complex advice from a vetted source and ask AI to give you a simple overview and explanation of what it says. And when you do use AI, like our AI coaching programs at 4YOUngevity.com, make sure the folks behind it are transparent about the process, their sources, and what they can – and cannot – do for you. My team and I are dedicated to those principles.

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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