South Mountain P re s s
HEAVY MOVER
DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
Putting the hammer down, an operator of a Case dozer was found clearing a piece of land along the Rolling River First Nation’s business section adjacent to Highway 10, with a new infrastructure project likely coming in the near future. With little or no frost in the ground, plenty of community projects have been carried out without a hitch this fall, all thanks to the warm fall temperatures.
Changing the face of men’s health
Respect the ‘stache’ for Movember this month as men ditch the razor in support of a variey of men’s health issues
RACHEAL
South Mountain Press
It’s been getting a little hairy around the region… have you noticed the surge of men sporting big, bushy moustaches this November?
As we reach the midway point of the month, the spotlight remains on important men’s health issues. This month is crucial for the ongo-
ing Movember campaign, where men worldwide grow moustaches to raise awareness and funds for men’s health challenges, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention.
First started in Australia 11 years ago, Movember has grown from just 30 moustaches to over five million since started. Observed
in over 20 countries, men everywhere are choosing to grow a moustache, raising awareness, and donating to the many significant issues facing men.
Also in November, International Men’s Day is celebrated on Nov. 19, further emphasizing the need to address critical men’s issues today. This day aims to highlight men’s and boys’ health, encouraging open
conversations and promoting wellbeing beyond traditional stereotypes.
Movember and International Men’s Day remind us of a pressing reality… men’s health deserves our attention and action. Men face higher suicide rates and often hesitate to discuss mental health issues.
Additionally, prostate cancer, affecting one in eight men, highlights
the need for awareness and early detection.
As we continue through November, let’s actively support men’s health through both Movember and International Men’s Day. By engaging in these initiatives, we contribute to important conversations and help provide the necessary support and funding to improve men’s health outcomes.
FLINTOFT
MLA apologizes for his inadvertent non-disclosure
The saying in politics is that if you are explaining you are losing but in the interests of full transparency I am going to give it a try.
I would like to explain to my constituents the result of an NDP complaint to the Ethics Commissioner that became public and was reported in the media on Nov. 5 and 6.
On August 9, 2024 the NDP alleged that I had contravened section 44(1) of The Conflict of Interest Act by having an interest in a private corporation with a contract with the Government of Manitoba, and for failing to disclose the contract.
On Nov. 5, 2024 the Ethics Commissioner, Jeffrey Schnoor, ruled that I did indeed contravene the Act by failing to include the contract in my Disclosure Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Sources of Income that MLAs have to file yearly prior to the start of a new session of the Manitoba Legislature.
This is where I want to give my constituents a little background information.
The contract in question was signed by the Russell Inns Ltd. and the Government of Manitoba in December 2023 that allows provincial employees to use Russell Inns Ltd. for rooms at established rates.
Since being elected in 2016 I have declared each year my corporation’s interest in the Russell Inns Ltd. Under the old Conflict of Interest legislation contracts a company had signed with government did not have to be disclosed.
In May 2018 I sold my common and voting shares in the Russell Inns Ltd. to my business partner but continue to hold non-voting shares as security until all payments for the sale are completed in 2029. Since May 2018 I have not been an officer or director and have had no involvement in daily business of the Russell Inn group of companies.
Fast forward to October 2023, and new Conflict of Interest legislation took effect requiring MLAs to disclose any contracts they or their companies may hold with the Government of Manitoba. I filed my disclosure statement as usual, saying there were no contracts.
Because I have no involvement with the Russell Inns Ltd., other than receiving yearly financial statements, I was unaware any contract had been signed and therefore did not update my disclosure statement in December 2023 as I was required to do.
From the date the complaint was filed with the Ethics Commissioner, I accepted
Greg Nesbitt UNDER THE DOME
full responsibility for this oversight. Mr. Schnoor, who I have thanked for his work in investigating the complaint and understanding the unique situation I find myself in, had discussions with my former business partner and also with a lawyer at the legal firm that completed the sale transaction in 2018.
Mr. Schnoor accepted the facts as outlined above but ruled I did inadvertently contravene the Act. The penalty options in the Act include a reprimand, a fine not exceeding $50,000, a suspension, or that the member’s seat be declared vacant.
However, the Ethics Commissioner also has the power to recommend there be no penalty if he is of the opinion that a contravention occurred even though a member took all reasonable measures to prevent it; or a contravention occurred that was trivial or that was committed through inadvertence or an error of judgement made in good faith.
Mr. Schnoor concluded that no penalty should be imposed as he determined the contravention occurred as a result of inadvertence.
As well, under the Act, the Commissioner can provide an exemption for an MLA to hold an interest in a company that has a contract with the Government of Manitoba providing that the contract is unlikely to affect the exercise of the member’s powers, duties and functions.
I asked for this exemption and Mr. Schnoor granted the exemption on Nov. 1. I apologized to the Legislative Assembly and to Manitobans at a media conference on Tuesday, Nov. 5 taking full responsibility for my inadvertent non-disclosure.
With this column, I am apologizing to the residents of the Riding Mountain constituency who I am proud to represent each and every day.
Greg Nesbitt is the Member of Legislative Assembly for the Riding Mountain constituency. He can be reached at 204-759-3313, toll-free 1-844877-7767 or by email at gregnesbittmla@mymts.net.
ON THE HUNT
NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
No matter the season, the views between Minnedosa and Erickson create an element of beauty and magnificence all thanks to the splendor of wildlife on the ground, perched in the trees, or flying overhead. This adult Bald Eagle kept watch for scurrying field mice while sitting in a tree adjacent to a stubble field along Highway 10. Once catching a glimpse of the camera lense however, the large bird quickly vacated from its perch.
DARRELL
A PASSION FOR AG
Minnedosa student Shayla Woychyshyn among Manitoba Beef
DARRELL NESBITT
South Mountain Press
Manitoba’s beef industry covers the full range of products, including cow-calf, feeder, and stocker, and feeding operations and processing facilities. Manitoba is home to Canada’s thirdlargest herd of beef cows, representing 11 percent of the national herd in 2022. As of Jan. 1, 2023, there were 960,000 cattle and 392,700 beef cows on farms. At that time, the province had about 6,715 farms with an average of 152 head per farm.
Families of the six recipients of the Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) $1,000 scholarship awards for students pursuing a field of study related to agriculture or acquiring a skilled trade or pursuing a career that would be beneficial to the rural economy, are among those involved.
Scholarship recipients for 2024-25 include Shayla Woychyshyn of Minnedosa, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science – Agriculture & Bioresources at the University of Saskatchewan.
Here is Woychyshyn’s essay as submitted…
“Rooted in the prairies and fertile lands of Manitoba is a deeply ingrained tradition of agriculture in its many forms, from the traditions of Indigenous peoples to the first plows breaking the soil, and modern-day innovations that make agriculture what it is today. Manitoba’s agricultural heritage runs deep, passing through generations of hard working and resilient farmers, ranchers, and scientists.
Throughout my life I’ve made many fond memories tied to my family’s agricultural involvement, from my uncle’s stash of harvest snacks in the grain truck, to halter breaking 4-H calves with my dad and a first date with my boyfriend being a ride in the combine. These memories not only serve as a bit of nostalgia, but also reflect a couple of ways that agriculture has impacted my life.
While learning the value of hard work and responsibility, I’ve also developed an extensive appreciation for the interconnection of farming, the environment, and the community involved. Furthermore, my involvement in 4-H has played a significant role in shaping my understanding of agriculture and fostering my passion for the industry. During my time with the Erickson 4-H
Club I gained valuable hands-on experience in animal husbandry, leadership, and communications, all while getting to experience a sincere community connection. Even though my time as a member of the club is over, I’ll be retuning as a ring person to both the club achievement, and Neepawa Fat Show in the summer, to offer my support as past members have for years before me.
Many of my experiences have allowed ne to recognize the importance of agriculture, including the beef industry, to communities and the province, extending far beyond its role in food production, whether it’s the role it plays in sustaining livelihoods or bringing people together. Although agriculture provides jobs to producers and farmers, it also directly provides employment opportunities in research, finance, food services, marketing, retail, transportation, and so much more. Not only is
there an economic relationship between farms and communities, but also a level of mutual respect and support.
Additionally, farmers and ranchers serve as stewards of the land, recognizing the value of sustainable farming practices, soil conservation, and maintaining wildlife habitat and water resources. The future of agriculture can’t be the past. With increasing populations and higher demands, beef producers are adapting, and working hard to preserve their land. Whether it’s rotational grazing or intercropping forages, they’re constantly balancing range health and cattle production.
With a passion for agriculture and environmental preservation, I’ll be a completing my diploma in Environmental Conservation & Reclamation at Lakeland College in Vermillion, Alberta. During my time at Lakeland College, I’ve enjoyed a vast majority of my courses, but have especially enjoyed courses in rangeland management, soil conservation, invasive plant management, and soil fertility.
In the 2024/2025 school year I will be transferring to the University of Saskatchewan to pursue a degree in Agriculture and Bioresources with a major in soil science. Once I graduate, I’m planning to continue growing my small commercial Simmental herd. With my
Producers 2024-25 scholarship winners
combination of post secondary education and life experiences, I hope to play a role in the management of Manitoba’s agricultural land, to ensure the province can sustain its tradition of agriculture for generations to come.”
Megan Beswitherick of Austin – pursuing an Agriculture advanced diploma at Assiniboine College; Keenan Karish of Fraserwood – pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture – Animal Science at the University of Manitoba; Lainie Muir of Glenella – pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture – Soil Science at the University of Saskatchewan; Madisyn Robertson of Neepawa –pursuing a Bachelor of Science – Agriculture & Bioresources at the University of Saskatchewan; and Annika Sund of Woodlands – pursuing a diploma in Animal Science Technology – Beef Science at Lakeland College,
also received a $1,000 scholarship.
“It is our pleasure and privilege to recognize Shayla, Megan, Keenan, Lainie, Madisyn, and Annika, who are from beef producing families and pursuing further education,” remarked Carson Callum, General Manager, MBP. “We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Audrey KuikSchweitzer and the late Larry Schweitzer for recognizing the importance of post-secondary education and providing an additional $400 contribution towards each scholarship.”
Larry Schweitzer, a former District 7 director with the Manitoba Cattle Producers Association (MCPA, now MBP), passed away in December 2023. Larry, who called Hamiota home, served in various capacities on the MCPA from 2001 to 2006, including as its president in 2005. He represented the
MCPA at the national level at the Canadian Cattle Association and he later represented MBP at the National Cattle Feeders Association. Larry was knowledgeable and passionate about the cattle industry, particularly the feeding sector. He was committed to the advancement of the beef industry even in the face of challenges such as BSE, mCOOL, and adverse weather conditions. The application process includes preparing an essay or video submission discussing the topic, “What the beef industry means to my family, my community and Manitoba.”
MBP is a non-profit organization with a producerelected board of 14 directors representing different geographic areas of the province. Its vision is a vibrant, prosperous, respected, sustainable beef industry in Manitoba.
Shayla Woychyshyn
24113GE0
40 years of critical care
STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service) celebrating milestone anniversary with the launch of 2025 fu ndraising calendar
DARRELL NESBITT
South Mountain Press
One doesn’t have to have a healthy bank account to stand behind the importance of STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service) operations.
Should you feel it’s a great cause to support there are many routes to become an ally in STARS fight for life –one-time donation, monthly giving, tribute gifts in someone’s name, or allies for life.
“It doesn’t matter who you are. It doesn’t matter where you are. If you need critical care, our mission is to be there for you in whatever capacity we can help. Every one of our VIPs – Very Important Patients – has a unique story of how STARS was their best hope in a worst-case scenario. We are honoured to share some of their inspirational stories here.” – STARS website post With the launch of the 2025 STARS Calendar, pages mark 40 years of critical care with powerful stories of survival, perseverance and growth.
To celebrate STARS’ 40th anniversary, the calendar revisits VIPs and crew members that have been featured in previous editions of the calendar, highlighting where they are now and how their journeys have evolved.
Since Viterra has partnered with STARS, the calendar has raised more than $6 million, which has gone towards funding STARS’ missions, acquiring medical equipment and supporting operations.
“More than a funding tool,
our calendar helps connect our supporters with our mission. This year’s calendar is a collection of stories that highlight the resilience and strength and incredible journeys of our patients and our team,” said Katherine Emberly, STARS president and CEO.
PHILANTHROPIST
REMEMBERED
Philanthropists come from all walks of life. Here is the story of one Manitoban who
stood truly behind the importance of emergency care.
The late Al Babiuk was one of three people to take part in the 2020 STARS Rescue on the Island fundraiser. Completing the impressive fundraising challenge with him were Sarah Normandeau and Berhhard Teichroeb. Together, they raised more than $223,000.
STARS, as an organization became very important to Babiuk when he participated in the challenge put forth in
the Whiteshell Provincial Park, as he saw firsthand the dedication, the in-depth training, the often-precarious environment the STARS helicopter must land and take off, and the necessity of this type of critical care service.
Personally, I had met Al Babiuk – a very close friend of my brother Laurie’s – at past Classic Rock weekends in Minnedosa, and by the gift of God shared words and a handshake with him at this year’s Rockin’ the Fields
Minnedosa on the August long weekend.
The former chief executive officer of Loewen Windows in Steinbach, passed away tragically on the night of Sept. 7, after his truck hit a concrete portion of a bridge near Ninette. He was a remarkable man, with an amazing story.
In fact, the get-together became a memorial service for him. Friends, relatives, and co-workers drove in from around the province to attend the fundraiser. They spoke of his incredible spirit, his boundless energy, his desire to help others, and just how fun he was to be with. His service and dedication to make a better world was his legacy.
Growing up on a beef cattle farm in the Interlake region, Al graduated in 1988 from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. His career included public practice with Price Waterhouse and Deloitte, while he obtained credentials as a Chartered Accountant and as a U.S. CPA (Certified Public Accountant). He retired in 2022 from Loewen Windows. Before this, he held executive and management positions in both public and private companies, including Investors Group, Ceridian, and Standard Aero.
Babiuk also acted in many volunteer, non-profit leadership roles, from a city and rural perspective.
In the week before his death, the man was busy with publicity for the benefit – once again trying to make the world a better place.
His plans had been to support the Fundraising Event and Open House at the Killarney Fire Hall on Oct. 3, in support of STARS and the local fire department. The event became known as the Al Babiuk Memorial Fundraiser, which brought forth hundreds, to remember the community resident and share sympathy with his wife Cindy. The couple moved to Killarney two years ago.
You ain’t seen nothin’ yet
Legendary
Canadian
DARRELL NESBITT
South Mountain Press
May have to put my Bachman Turner Overdrive “Live in Japan” record on the turntable leading up to Thursday, April 17, as Randy Bachman and the legendary rock n’ roll band behind worldwide hits such as “Takin’ Care of Business’ and “You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet” will bring their Back in Overdrive Tour 2025 to the Keystone Centre in Brandon on that date.
Multi-platinum April Wine and Headpins, two fellow Canadian classic rock bands, will open in support. The second Manitoba stop is in Winnipeg two nights later. The tour itself begins April 1 at Victoria, BC,
rockers
Bachman Turner
trekking east and wrapping up in Halifax, NS in May.
Last year, Randy Bachman revived BTO, and has continued to tour throughout 2024 with a run of dates in the United States. Led by Bachman, recently nominated as an inductee into the Songwriters Hall Of Fame, BTO’s latest lineup also includes his son Tal Bachman. With Randy’s legendary guitar and Tal’s contemporary flair, BTO forges ahead, blending their classic hits with a fresh energy that captivates audiences worldwide.
The band will also be performing hits from The Guess Who, the iconic classic rock group which Bachman co-founded with Burton Cummings. The BTO legacy lives on, promising
Overdrive
will ‘take care of business’ during show in Bran don this April
unforgettable performances and a continued impact on the everevolving rock landscape.
“Years ago, BTO rocked Canada coast to coast, sharing the stage with acts like ZZ Top,” says Bachman. “Now, we’re excited to return, bringing along two Canadian rock legends. Get ready for a night of 70’s classic rock that continues to dominate the airwaves. It’s going to be an unforgettable evening.”
Celebrating over 50 years of rock, April Wine has been a staple in the rock music scene with music igniting one’s soul. Known for their powerful ballads and rock anthems, the band has seen several lineup changes but has always stayed true to their roots. April Wine has
weathered the storms of the music industry with remarkable resilience and the band continues to captivate audiences with their electrifying performances. Today, the band continues to tour, keeping the spirit of rock alive for their dedicated fan base, and current members Brian Greenway, Richard Lanthier, Roy Nichol and Marc Parent continue to thrill audiences across North America!
The Headpins will be making an encore performance in Brandon, as they were special guests for Foreigner, on the group’s Farewell Canada tour.
The internationally renowned Canadian multi-platinum recording artist is well known for powerful vo-
cals, memorable iconic guitars, tight and electrifying performances.
Emerging on the music scene in 1980, this West Coast group continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of rock and roll, with hit songs, “Don’t It Make You Feel,” “Just One More Time,” “Turn It Loud” and many more.” BTO’s anthem, Takin’ Care of Business, is among the Top 100 Canadian Songs of All Time as noted by K-97 Classic Rock Stereo FM. It, along with countless others, will bring you the listener out of your seat, rocking along, as it was the late 1970s to early 1980s, when rock n’ roll was alive and well in western Manitoba.
Late philanthropist,AlBabiuk,front left,took part in STARS Rescue on the Island fundraiser in 20 20
CHECK THWARTED
DARRELL NESBITT
SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
Kayne Graham of the Minnedosa Bombers thwarted a stick check from Liam Voth of the host Eagles, as he moved up the ice looking for a teammate to pass to and create a scoring chance, in action at the Shoal Lake U11 tournament played on Saturday, Nov. 9 at the Shoal Lake Communi-plex. Neepawa claimed the Aside championship over Shoal Lake, while the Bombers fell to Roblin in the B-side final. All told, six teams showcased a love for the game.
Chiefs dumped by Central Plains
The Yellowhead Chiefs dropped a 9-2 decision to the Central Plains Capitals in a Manitoba U18 Hockey League game played in Portage la Prairie on Friday, Nov. 8. Carter Polanski and Ethan Breakey each scored twice for the hosts, who trailed 1-0
after the first period but scored four unanswered second period goals.
Gavin Davis, Tryp Klassen, Kaelan Waldner, Miguel Bonin and Ivan Kushchev added singles.
Grady McNish and Redden Richmond replied for the Chiefs.
Everett Winters made 22 saves to earn the win in the Central Plains net, while Connor Rapley stopped 26
shots for Yellowhead.
NOTES – The Chiefs are last in the 13-team league with a record of 3-9-0-1…
Grady McNish leads the team in scoring with six goals and six assists… The Chiefs, who are on the road for the next six games, will play the Interlake Lightning in Teulon on Saturday, Nov. 16 and the Eastman Selects in Beausejour on Sunday, Nov. 17.
U15 Chiefs split pair of weekend games
The Yellowhead Chiefs split their two weekend games in the Winnipeg U15 AAA Hockey League.
After recording their first win of the season in Interlake, the Chiefs fell to the Bruins Gold in Winnipeg.
BRUINS 10 CHIEFS 0
Crewe Schimnowski scored five goals as the Bru-
ins Gold crushed the Chiefs 10-0 in Winnipeg on Sunday, Nov. 10.
Daniel Andreyev, James Reitmeier, Declan Champagne, Owen Murray and Mateo Ferreira added singles
for the hosts, who held period leads of 4-0 and 9-0.
Logan German made 15 saves to record the shutout.
Yellowhead starter Ben Anderson and Noah Wohlgemuth, who came on in the third, combined to make 49 saves.
CHIEFS 4 INTERLAKE 2
The Chiefs jumped out to
U15 females move past Wildcats with victory
The Yellowhead Chiefs used a balanced scoring attack as they dumped the Westman Wildcats 5-2 in Deloraine on Sunday, Nov. 10.
The win moved the Chiefs past the Wildcats into sole possession of fifth place with a record of 3-6-2.
Bryleigh Barnes, Haley Chipelski, Averi Jury, Addison Luhowy and Hayla
U15 C Y
Matheson scored for the Chiefs.
Holly Danners and Georgia Koop replied for the Wildcats, who trailed 2-1 and 3-2 at the intermissions.
Madison Fleury earned the win between the pipes for the Chiefs, while Ivy Nelson suffered the loss in goal for Westman.
NOTES – The Chiefs will host the Brandon Wheat Kings on Saturday, Nov. 16 before hitting the road for a game against the Interlake Lightning in Stonewall on Sunday, Nov. 17.
a 3-0 first lead as they doubled the Lightning 4-2 in Arborg on Saturday, Nov. 9.
Carter White scored twice for the visitors, with Carter Brown and Brody Lane chipping in with singles.
Will Nychuk and Carson Kirk scored for the Lightning.
Noah Wohlgemuth earned the win in goal, stopping 25 shots. Eddy Person finished with 35 saves in the Interlake
net.
NOTES – The Chiefs, who are 1-8-1 on the season, will travel to Thompson for games against the Norman Northstars on Nov. 16 and 17.
The amazing power of the keto diet
Q: I have Type 2 diabetes. My doctor tells me that I can improve my health if I cut out carbs and eat a keto diet. Is that really smart? – Charlie W., Akron, OH
A: There are major benefits metabolically from a healthy keto diet – with no red or processed red meat. A study published in Nature Scientific Reports found that it delivers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective benefits, reducing the risk of all-cause death over almost 20 years by up to 24%. The researchers came to this conclusion using data in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
But a healthy keto diet is not a license to consume excess saturated fats (even though they’re not forbidden) or to ditch all vegetables. Make your fats of choice mono- and poly-unsaturated from extra-virgin olive oil and plant based oils such as canola. The saturated fats in fatty fish, like salmon (there’s less than 3 grams in a 3-ounce serving) or chicken breast (3.5 ounces has almost 4 grams) serve up a third of the saturated fat in a steak and are moderate enough not to cause inflammation or heart woes. Plus, asparagus, celery, tomatoes, spinach, lettuce, mushrooms, cucumbers, and zucchini are an important part of a keto diet – you need the fiber and nutrients for good health.
Those findings are reinforced by additional research that shows when folks with Type 2 diabetes adopt a lowcarb diet, they may be able to discontinue their medication.
Seems that diet encourages insulin-producing beta cells to start functioning again –something medication cannot do. In this study, the low-carb diet delivered 9% of total calories from carbohydrates and 65% from fat.
So, what’s smart to eliminate? Processed carbs like white bread and pasta, fries, baked goods, and sugar-added treats. They make up the vast majority of carbs that Americans eat. One study found that low-quality carbohydrates make up 42% of the typical American’s calories. For more help making smart choices, read “10 Grocery Essentials and Supplements to Support Health on the Keto Diet” at iHerb.com/blog.
Q: I’m approaching my 50th birthday and freaking out a little. I don’t want to face old age with declining cognition. Is it inevitable? – Pat R., San Francisco, CA
A: Age does produce changes, but ongoing research into how lifestyle choices can help counter declines in everything from mental ability to muscle strength proves you
can live longer, healthier and happier.
The National Institute on Aging highlights two powerful components of a brain-loving lifestyle. First of all, superagers’ brains are packed with neurons that are linked to social intelligence and awareness. As we say all the time, having a posse and a purpose are essential for continued mental and physical health! So, make sure you reach out to friends old and new and engage in social activities, volunteering that’s important to you, and work or hobbies that inspire you.
Super-agers also have less brain shrinkage, especially in areas used to integrate memory, attention, cognitive control, and motivation. To keep yours robust, explore the world, interact with people, take classes, play speed-ofprocessing games, and don’t dull your wits with inflammatory foods (added sugars, red meats), sedentary habits, or chronic stress (try meditation and yoga).
We also believe in the power of physical activity, especially when you walk and play with your posse, to strengthen not just muscles
but brainpower. That’s why we advocate that everyone finds the level of physical activity that provides daily moderate and vigorous stimulation, by walking, swimming, doing chair yoga or tai chi, and doing strength building with stretchy bands.
Clearly, if you want to be a super-ager at 80 (with the cognitive powers of someone 30 years younger), you need to rev up your brain today. To get started, check out your Actual Age at LongevityPlaybook.com, Dr. Mike’s book “The Great Age Reboot,” and “Nutrition and Brain Health” at iHerb.com/ blog. The great reward from exploring, thinking and moving more is that it is fun!
Dr. Mike Roizen is the founder of www.longevity playbook.com, and Dr. Mehmet Oz is global advisor to www. iHerb.com, the world’s leading online health store. Roizen and Oz are chief wellness officer emeritus at Cleveland Clinic and professor emeritus at Columbia University, respectively. Together they have written 11 New York Times bestsellers (four No. 1’s).
November 15,
Some bad bear behaviour
By the time this article goes to press, the temperatures should be consistently below zero, and I may even be waxing my skis for the first outings of the season. I will also, with any luck, be able to take down our electric fence.
It was a summer of interesting bear behaviour around our house. I say “interesting”, but I really mean bad bear behaviour. Not that I am blaming the bears though (more on this later).
I’m not entirely sure where our nemeses hibernated, but it must have been close by, as they started into their mischief very early in the spring. The first sign of trouble came when a mother bear and her yearling cub tried to break into the back shed where we store our garbage and old beehives.
While the back shed has held some interest for bears over the past years, it has been pretty easy to dissuade them from breaking in by placing a “bear board” in front of the door. If you are not familiar with bear boards, they consist of a plank or piece of plywood with nails hammered into it. Placed with the sharp ends facing up, these spikey boards prevent bears from getting too close to the door, making it hard for them to break in.
This spring, though, our visiting bears must have been extra keen to get in the shed, and after several tries, figured out a way to sneak around the bear board, pry open the door, and knock a few old hives about. After a quick clean up, we put up an electric fence in front of the door to nip the problem in the bud.
While we watched, the sow and her cub brazenly returned in broad daylight. Mom bear approached the fence, sniffed it, then proceeded to try to walk through it. It took a bit of time for the shock to regis ter, but the sow bear soon got a jolt, causing her to hightail it into the bush.
The cub, evidently un aware of what had happened, looked slightly confused, then quickly decided that it would be prudent to follow her. Prob lem solved. Or so we thought.
The bears then decided to try to go through the window. We were onto their wily ways before they could break in, though, so we placed the bear board under the shed’s win dow. Surely the problem was solved now! Or so we thought.
to place the hives inside an old dog kennel consisting of a two-metre-tall wire mesh cage. This proved to be a great idea, until it wasn’t.
Judging by the tracks, the bears first circled the kennel, seemingly stumped. We were pretty confident that the bees were safe and sound and left on a three-week vacation to visit our daughter and son-inlaw in Newfoundland.
About five days into the trip, we received a panicked text from our youngest daughter. She reported that in a serendipitous event (for the bears), they found that they could tip up the dog kennel
just enough to get a cub under the fence. Bears 1, Bees 0.
We called on help from our long-suffering friends who fastened down the cage to its wood base, making it impossible to tip. Immediately, though, the bears then figured out how to flip the latch on the door, and into the kennel they went. Bears 2, Bees 0.
Not to be outdone, the kennel door was secured with wire. Next, the small bear decided that the two-metre-tall mesh fence was scalable after all. Bears 3, Bees 0. By this time, one of the beehives had been destroyed, while the second one remained relatively untouched. With a final call for help from friends, the wire fence was electrified. Bears 0, Bees 1 (Although the final score at the end of the summer, if you were keeping track, was Bears 3, Bees 1.)
I know our experience is not unique. A significant number of readers will have had similar experiences with bears. Their intelligence, inquisitiveness, and problemsolving skills are amazing, apparently driven by their stomachs. Additionally, residents in
Soon the bears decided to rip the siding off the shed to gain entry. Their target area was just under the eaves and, given that they had to cling to the side of a spruce tree to reach it, it must have proved to be too much effort and they gave up after a while.
At about this time Rae and I invested in two new beehives. We decided, given the constant presence of the bears, that it would be smart
bear country know that animals engaged in bad behaviour are rarely to blame. At some point in their past, these bears learned to associate humans with food. You know the sources: dog food, bird seed, garbage, barbecues, etc. so I won’t belabour the point.
I know I’ve messed up in the past, inadvertently providing meals for bears, and we try to rectify the situation asap. After all, it’s up to us to keep these bears on as natural a diet as possible.
Nor would we want the bears gone. Despite this summer’s bear-induced headaches, we like bragging about our wild visitors and would miss their occasional visits.
To ensure that we’re ahead of the game when the whole process starts again next spring (as we know it will), we’ll be putting up the electric fence and bear boards before the snow melts. And in the meantime, I’ll almost think fondly of this past summer’s battle of wits.
Ken Kingdon lives in the Riding Mountain Biosphere Reserve. Send him a text at 204.848.5020 if you have wildlife stories to share.
Kingdon MOMENTS IN RMNP