South Mountain P re s s
REST STOP
DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
On cool fall days, prior to the arrival of snow, flocks of North America’s numerous swans can be spotted gathered on lakes before their great migration south. A characteristic whistling in their wings led Meriwether Lewis to call them “whistling swans,” a name still in use. From a distance it’s difficult to say if these were Tundra or larger Trumpeter swans seen on Friday, Nov. 1, in a large basin of water east of Sandy Lake.
RRFN receives $25,000 for kitchen upgrade
Large grant from Farm Credit Canada’s AgriSpirit Fund will benefit and enhance First Nation community’s facility
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
South Mountain Press
Rolling Rivers First Nation has been awarded a $25,000 grant from Farm Credit Canada’s AgriSpirit Fund. This funding will be used to upgrade the community kitchen with new countertops, cupboards, and appliances, enhancing the facility and its usability for commu-
nity members. Additionally, eight other projects across Manitoba received support from this initiative, reflecting FCC’s commitment to enhancing rural community infrastructure.
Farm Credit Canada (FCC) has distributed a total of $1.5 million across 82 community projects throughout Canada this year. The AgriSpirit Fund is focused on sup-
porting rural communities with less than 150,000 people through various capital improvement projects. These projects often address issues such as food security, community infrastructure improvements, and environmental sustainability.
“We at FCC are incredibly proud to support projects that make a positive impact in the ru-
ral communities where we live and work,” said Shannon Weatherall, FCC’s senior vice-president of agriculture production for Prairie operations. Weatherall notes that these investments not only improve the quality of life for residents but also showcase the creativity and dedication of community members who are building a brighter future for rural Canada.
Over the past 21 years, the FCC AgriSpirit Fund has invested $22.5 million in 1,697 projects, consistently aiming to enhance community life across Canada. The fund supports initiatives by charities, non-profit groups, and First Nations, Inuit, or Métis communities, demonstrating FCC’s commitment to lasting partnerships and community development.
PMH details year of accomplishments during latest AGM
RACHEAL FLINTOFT South Mountain
This year’s Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in late October, showcased a year of significant accomplishments while reflecting on challenges faced during its 12th year of operations.
The report noted the importance of communication with the community, adding that the PMH AGM serves as a crucial platform for sharing information on the health region’s priorities and financial standing.
A major highlight of the meeting was the completion of the new cancer care unit in Russell, which received significant support from local communities. This facility aims to improve cancer care accessibility for residents in the region.
The AGM also showcased quite a milestone for PMH’s Mobile Clinic, celebrating its 10th anniversary. The Mobile Clinic has been key in providing primary care services to many communities, including the Keeseekoowenin First Nation, where it has made healthcare more accessible for the Indigenous communities throughout the region.
In addition to these key projects, PMH announced upgrades to the Emergency Department in Virden, enhancing treatment spaces for better patient privacy and improved work areas for medical staff. As stated, these renovations reflect PMH’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality care to the communities it serves.
Other reported initiatives included ongoing renova-
tions for the clinical spaces in Neepawa, Brandon and Dauphin Regional Health Centres, as well as an addition to mental health and addictions services.
During the meeting, PMH CEO Treena Slate reflected on the year’s accomplishments, acknowledging the dedication of staff who are integral to the organization’s success.
“We’re making great strides in several areas, as indicated in our recent Accreditation Report,” added Slate. “However, we also recognize that there is still much work to be done.”
This year, PMH underwent its third national accreditation survey, achieving 97 percent compliance with the evaluated conditions. This achievement shows the organization’s commitment to maintaining high standards of care. PMH outlined its Strategic Plan for 2023-2028, which focuses on four key priorities aimed at building a healthier population and creating a sustainable and cohesive health system.
PMH has also made progress in recruitment strategies, hiring new specialists and nurse practitioners to aide in the delivery of services.
Although there was much to celebrate at the 2024 AGM, PMH reported an operating deficit of $29.7 million for the 2023/24 fiscal year, due in part to increased staffing costs related to agency usage and overtime. A financial accountability working group has been formed to explore opportunities for fiscal sustainability and cost savings, as PMH continues to prioritize the health and wellbeing of the greater region.
Sandy Lake Endowment Fund (SLEF)
Grants Now Available!
Open to non-profit groups and organizations in the Sandy Lake area whose projects are already in progress.
Semi-annual application intake deadline Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024
To obtain an application form or for more information, contact any SLEF Committee Member: Dennis Hodgson (204) 868-8335, denjan60@outlook.com Charlene Lewandoski (204) 585-2685, charlenelewandoski@gmail.com Ian Drul (204) 859-0201, drul69@mymts.net
SLEF may support grant applications for capital expenditures. Consumable and operating expenditures are ineligible. SLEF will not consider grant applications for educational, religious, or political purposes.
LOOK WAY UP
A number of Manitoba Hydro employees were found carrying out regular maintenance at the Sandy Lake substation, situated south of the community along Highway 45, on Friday, Nov. 1. Working at these heights is common in this line of work. In terms of power outages, Manitoba Hydro’s power outage map online is updated every five minutes and has information on both planned and unplanned outages, including causes and the number of people affected.
DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
LEST WE FORGET
Editor’s note: Robert Poirier, a retired army Colonel, was asked to say a few words for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, for a commemoration event held by the Royal Winnipeg Rifles this June. Poirier decided to focus in on one soldier, and chose Jim Reid of Onanole. In honour of Remembrance Day, the following is a copy of his speech.
I have been asked to say a few words about the Canadians and D-Day. But what is to be said that hasn’t been said a thousand times? On the 6th of June, 1944, 150,000 Canadian, British and American soldiers landed in France. 14,000 were Canadians, of the 3rd Infantry Division, the 2nd Armoured Brigade, and the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion. 124 Royal Canadian Navy vessels and 39 Royal Canadian Air Force squadrons supported the attack.
Lots of statistics. Here’s more. Just on 6 June, 381 Canadian service personnel were killed. Hundreds more died in the next few days as the Allies battled to hold and expand their tiny bridgehead in France
What does it all mean in human terms? Let’s zero in on one of the 14,000 Canadian soldiers. In 1910, Robert and Margaret Reid were married in Whitewood, SK. Robert served in South Africa and during the First World War. After the war, they began farming near Onanole. There were 12 children. The fourth of these was James Allen. I will refer to him as Jim, as did his family. He was born in December 1917. To save you the math, he was 27 when he landed in Normandy. Four of his brothers also served in uniform. The five called themselves the Fighting Reids, and received some national publicity.
Raised Presbyterian, Jim worked on the farm – called himself a farmer when he joined the army. He was interested in auto mechanics. He was sporty – he played baseball and hockey. Coming from a very musical family, he played the guitar. He graduated from the 8th grade, not an unusual education in those days. He had a ruddy complexion, blue eyes, brown hair, 20/20 vision, and according to army doctors,
fair physical development.
The mobilization of the Royal Winnipeg Rifles was ordered in June 1940 and one of the first of the recruits was Jim Reid. He was the 297th man enrolled in the Rifles in June 1940.
For the next four years, he had a very typical Canadian infantry career, except that he progressed relatively quickly in rank. He also appears to have been a remarkably well-behaved soldier.
He and the regiment trained in Canada at first, in Shilo and then in Debert, NS, and embarked for England over a year after mobilization on 28 August 1941. The long time that was spent training in Canada was due to a shortage of everything from leaders to rifles, a rather Canadian state of affairs.
Arriving in Liverpool on 13 September 1941, the regiment began to prepare in earnest to fight the German army. Physical toughness was a big part of their training, including very competitive sports of all types. They mastered their weapons and learned their small unit tactics until it was all muscle memory. They settled into England – they were there almost three years – and became comfortable with the cities, the pubs and beer, the girls, the weather.
But over all of the training and the pleasant times there hung the thoughts of the fight to come. Not long after the Rifles arrived in England, the Japanese entry into the war had, among a lot of other things, consumed the Canadian force in Hong Kong like spit on a hot barbecue. The Rifles’ sister regiment, the Winnipeg Grenadiers, were destroyed at Hong Kong in a couple of weeks. A year after the Rifles arrived in England, the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division was badly hurt at Dieppe, a bloody defeat, with over 1,000 Canadian soldiers killed in a day. Winnipeg’s Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders were involved. I wonder if our Jim knew any of the Grenadiers or Camerons involved in these two battles? Only in July 1943 did Canadian soldiers get involved in a non-disaster, when the 1st Canadian Infantry Division
landed in Sicily and started the long, hard, and bloody fight in Italy. There was no doubt within the Canadian army that the German army was a competent and formidable enemy. And that the coming invasion would be hard.
Jim Reid was a good soldier. He became a Lance Corporal one-and-one-half years after joining, in January 1942. He appears to have thrived on leadership. Three months later he was an acting Corporal, likely commanding a section of 10 men. A year later he was an acting Sergeant and was sent to an instructor’s course in platoon weapons in Hythe, UK. Here he mastered weapons he was already quite familiar with, but with the added impetus of learning to instruct others on them. By June 1943 he was confirmed as a Sergeant. His pay was now $2.20 per day, well more than the $1.30 paid to a private.
I don’t know for certain, but I expect he was a Platoon Sergeant – the second in command of the platoon – in a rifle company. A platoon held 37 soldiers.
He landed in France on DDay, 6 June 1944. The regiment had one of its four companies shattered on the beach that day, and another mauled. Despite this, they continued inland, and by the night of 7 June were in a defensive position spread out around the village of Putot, pretty well their D-Day objective. The Regina Rifles and the Winnipeg Rifles dispute who achieved their D-Day objective first, and the jury, as they say, is out on that. Either way, our Jim was in a pretty good unit.
I should note that Winnipeg’s Fort Garry Horse, with their tanks, also landed on DDay. Of the six initial assault regiments in the first wave, two were from Manitoba, and a third from Saskatchewan.
On 7 June and into 8 June, the Canadians were counter-attacked by the 12th SS Panzer Division. The counter-attacks were stopped, but the cost was great, for both the Germans and the Canadians. Parts of several Canadian units were overrun, and prisoners were taken. One of the badly hurt units was the Royal Winnipeg Rifles. Jim Reid was one
The Germans were incensed at their losses at the hands of the Canadians. Brutalized already from fighting the Russians, the German leadership allowed and probably directed the killing of prisoners in large numbers, including, in the first few days after the landings, at least 156 Canadians, probably more. On the evening of 8 June, 37 Canadian soldiers were grouped in a field at the Caen-Fontenay crossroads and machine-gunned by seven German soldiers. Five of the Canadians escaped. Jim wasn’t one of them. With 31 other infantrymen and gunners, he was murdered.
The senior German officers responsible for the massacre were never brought to justice, either because they died in later fighting or because there was not considered to be enough evidence to prosecute.
Jim was buried in a mass grave and in early 1946 was re-interred at the Canadian cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer, Grave 11, Row F, Plot 13.
His parents were immediately notified – his mother Margaret was his official next of kin – that he was missing. Only on 6 June 1945 was the family notified that Jim was officially dead. Imagine the thread of hope that stayed with the parents, and Jim’s brothers and sisters, for the year after D-Day that he might, just might, be alive?
The government was generous. His mother was sent a memorial cross, a small silver medal with his name engraved on the back, and his father received a memorial
name. Between back pay and a gratuity, the family received $851.06. A photo of the grave at Beny-sur-Mer was sent in 1947. Finally, in November 1949, the family received the five service medals Jim was entitled to, each in a small cardboard box. one death is a tragedy and a million deaths is a statistic. 42,000 Canadians died in the Second World War, over 5,000 of them on D-Day and in the subsequent Normandy campaign. There is your statistic. Jim Reid is your tragedy. And a great Canadian hero.
The life of Onanole’s Jim Reid honoured at commemoration
PASSING THE TORCH
By CONNOR McDOWELL
Erickson’s Scott Gray has run a farm with his fatherin-law for nearly 30 years. He’s now showing his son the ropes in the hope the torch can be passed to the next generation.
“We’ve grown to the point where my father-in-law is starting to pull back,” said Scott. “We’re kinda at a point where we need to start transitioning that work.”
His father-in-law, 79-yearold Norval Lee, grew up on the farm. He’s been working this land his entire life, and when people ask him if he’s lived here his entire life, he says, “Not yet.”
With 80 on the horizon, Lee has been shortening his former 14 to 16 hour work days. He’s passed the bookkeeping onto Scott, a job they shared for decades, and isn’t able to do as much heavy lifting as he used to.
But the work still needs to be done, and this is where the need for the next generation comes in. Scott has been showing his son Matt the ropes. He said that the way things are going Matt will need to take on more responsibility “very soon” if the land is going to carry on being a family farm.
“As a young kid he didn’t take too much an interest in working with the farm, so we didn’t push it,” said Scott. “I don’t think he was that interested in working with his dad to be honest,” he said with a laugh.
Matt, who works full time as a plumber, came back to the farm in 2020 and has taken a new interest in the farm work, at the right time. Matt’s been working hard four years now, and Scott thinks the learning process will be another five to 10 years if the young man commits to take up the reins. Scott said his son has picked up the hands-on work well, but he’ll be looking to teach him about management, accounting and marketing in the near future.
“The part that is going to be the biggest obstacle is the business,” said Scott. “It’s a
big business.”
The farm spans roughly 3,000 acres where the family grows wheat, barley and canola. There’s 19 towers on the property, space for up to 200,000 bushels of storage. It’s a lot of work, and the family recently hired a farmhand to help get everything done.
Pointing at a field beyond, 200 acres roughly, Scott said its a full day of work at harvest time. When considering the entire farm all-seasonround, he said it makes for full days, always with something to do.
“Hard work, but I love the hard work,” he said, walking beneath the towers. “I live in Heaven – It’s just a great life-
style.”
Over the years, the family bought a few pieces of land as neighbours became ill, passed or moved away, increasing the workload on the farm and making it even more crucial to get the next generation involved. But it’s not easy to convince young people to commit to a farm in rural Manitoba. Even for Scott, back in the 1990s, this decision was difficult.
When Lee was looking for help, he said he pitched Scott. I said, “Scott if you ever want to farm here’s your chance”, (and) a couple years later he said, “Is the offer still good?”
“I was looking for a better
environment to raise our family,” Scott says. “I mean you can’t find a better way to
South Mountain Press
Connor McDowell, Local Journalism Initiative, Brandon Sun
Reconnecting with the world after retirement
Q: I feel stuck in the house and disconnected from the world since I retired. I live alone, so it gets pretty lonely. Can you help? – Steve R., Chicago, IL
A: You’re smart to want to break out of feeling lonely. More than 16 million older Americans live alone – and many struggle with the risks to health that are associated with being isolated, such as sedentary habits, overindulgence in alcohol, and unhealthy food choices. Loneliness also promotes cardiovascular disease and cognition problems.
A new study in Nature Mental Health found that loneliness increases the likelihood that you’ll develop cognitive impairment by 15% and dementia by 31%. That can happen as a result of declining heart health, which affects brain function; increased stress hormones that can cause metabolic changes; and a deficiency in nutrients such as omega-3s and vitamins D and B12 that are needed for healthy neural function and to control inflammation.
But knowing that doesn’t necessarily make it any easier to end your isolation. That takes a willingness to open yourself up to new experiences. To help you do that, we invite you into our posse. We’re here to answer your questions, provide a laugh, offer support and help you take small steps toward big changes in your quality of life and connection with others.
To get you started, you can take the free Actual Age test at Longevity
Dr. Roizen HEALTHY LIVING
Playbook.com. That will let you know where you are today and help you set goals for a younger, healthier you. Then sign up for the free newsletter that covers diet, exercise, stress management, sleep, and brain health. Next, at iHerb.com/blog, discover Dr. Oz’s approach to brain health in “4 Easy Ways to Protect Your Brain Power!” and explore how to take better care of yourself in the blog “What Self-Care Is ... and Isn’t.” It’s also important to call a friend or associate everyday and plan a frequent walk or adventure with a now-renewed friend. Have fun expanding your horizons!
Q: I have been pretty neglectful when it comes to doing what I should to stay strong and focused as I age. I am 72 now. Is it too late to make up for my shortcomings? – Verna H., Short Hills, NJ
A: It’s never too late! And if you’re a betting person, you can bet on BET – brain endurance training – to promote improved physical and
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cognitive health. Originally designed as a training system to improve athletic endurance, BET combines resistance and endurance exercise with a brain-challenging activity. And a new study in the journal Psychology of Sport and Exercise has found that it has powerful benefits for the health and happiness of older folks.
The group of 24 healthy but sedentary women ages 65 to 78 participated in the study. Three times a week, the BET training group did cognition exercises (you can try quizzes and puzzles) for
20 minutes before doing 20 minutes of strength training and 25 minutes of endurance training (aerobics). Compared to the control group, the BET groups saw their physical abilities improve by 30% and their mental powers increase by 8%. And that was with just eight weeks of BET. Think what doing it for years could do!
According to another study published in PLOS Biology, the positive effects of exercise – as well as healthy sleep habits and a positive mood – may linger in your brain for more than two
weeks. (Conversely, the negative effects of lack of sleep and exercise can pollute your brain health far into the future, too.) So, it’s never been clearer that staying engaged, doing speed-of-processing games, and getting musclebuilding and aerobic exercise is essential for enduring physical and mental wellbeing. That’s why we offer 24-7 support and coaching at LongevityPlaybook.com. For guidance, there is also “Dr. Oz’s 9-Step Daily Wellness Routine” at iHerb.com/blog. And discover other breakthroughs in healthy longev-
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Friday, November 8, 2024
Chiefs now winless in last four
The Yellowhead Chiefs earned just one point in four starts in Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League play over the past week.
The Chiefs have a 3-8-1 record and sit alone in 11th place in the 13-team league.
KENORA 7 CHIEFS 6 (SO)
Cayson Lambert scored in a shootout to lift the Thistles to a 7-6 win over the Chiefs in Kenora on Sunday, Nov. 3. Lambert and Carter Peters each scored twice in regulation time for the hosts, who scored four of their six goals on the powerplay. Single markers came off the sticks of Bruce Bouchard and Garry Rody.
Grady McNish and Alec Strachan each notched a pair for the Chiefs, who scored five times with the man advantage. Nolan Kozak and Ethan Bray chipped in with singles.
The teams were tied 2-2 after the first period with Chiefs taking a 5-4 lead into the dressing room after 40 minutes.
Morgan Blackwood made
U18
48 saves in the Kenora net, while Cole Lelond stopped 43 shots for Yellowhead.
KENORA 6 CHIEFS 2
The Thistles used a balanced scoring attack to dump Chiefs 6-2 in Kenora on Saturday, Nov. 2.
Bruce Bouchard, Jaden Van Walleghem, Jack Noel, Carter Peters, Quentin Thompson and Nathan Ogilvie scored for the hosts, who led 2-0 and 4-2 at the intermissions.
Winston Lepp and Isaac McArthur scored for the Chiefs.
Brady Cates earned the win in goal stopping 47 shots.
Connor Rapley finished with 37 saves for Yellowhead
NORMAN 6 CHIEFS 4
The Northstars took a 4-1 first period lead enroute to a 6-4 win over the Chiefs in Shoal Lake on Friday, Nov. 1.
U15 Chiefs shutout by Wheat Kings
The Yellowhead Chiefs were shutout 11-0 by the Brandon Wheat Kings in Winnipeg U15 AAA Hockey League action in Shoal Lake on Saturday, Nov. 2. The result left the Chiefs winless in eight games this season.
Etienne Visser had a hat trick for the visitors, who are undefeated in regulation time this season. Kevin Knee scored twice, with Brayden Wall, William Marvin, Ethan Chen, Mason Woychyshyn, Grayson Rome and Austin Hargreaves adding singles.
Cash Didluck made 30 saves to earn the shutout for the Wheat Kings, who held period leads of 2-0 and 4-0. Noah Wohlgemuth finished with 40 stops in the Yel-
U15
lowhead net.
NOTES – The Chiefs are on the road for a pair of games this weekend travelling to Arborg on Saturday, Nov. 9 to face the Interlake Lightning and then moving on to Winnipeg to play the Bruins Gold on Sunday, Nov. 10.
Birtle’s Colby Asselstine looks to get a shot off during action in Shoal Lake against the visiting Norman Northstars on Friday,Nov.1
Conner Weber-McKay and Tyler Wamboldt each scored twice for the visitors, while
Michael Oyelami and Liam Tattuinee added singles. Nolan Kozak, Destin
Knight, Alec Strachan and Colby Asselstine replied for the Chiefs, who trailed 5-2 af-
ter 40 minutes.
Austin Kindrat for the Northstars and Cole Lelond for the Chiefs each made 40 saves in goal.
SOUTHWEST 8 CHIEFS 2
Connor Hoemsen scored three goals to pace the Cougars to an 8-2 win over the Chiefs in Souris on Wednesday, Oct. 30.
Also scoring for the Cougars, who held period leads of 5-1 and 6-1, were Spencer Cullen, Eric Berger, Taylor Lockhart, Slater Anderson and Lynden Gould.
Oliver Nickel and Bryce Gambler were the Yellowhead marksmen.
Brodie Cameron made 33 saves to earn the win in goal for Southwest. Connor Rapley allowed the first five goals, before being replaced by Cole Lelond. The Yellowhead netminders combined to make 23 saves.
NOTES – The Chiefs play just one game this weekend, travelling to Portage la Prairie to play the Central Plains Capitals on Friday, Nov. 8.
A win and an overtime loss were the result of the week for the Yellowhead Chiefs in Manitoba U15 Female AAA Hockey League action. The Chiefs have a record of 2-6-2 and curretnly sit in fifth place in the eight team league.
CENTRAL PLAINS 5
CHIEFS 4 (OT)
Sadie McKay scored four
goals including the overtime winner as the Capitals edged the Chiefs 5-4 in Portage la Prairie on Sunday, Nov. 3.
Paige Windus tied the game for the hosts with just over five minutes remaining.
Chloe Facey, Addison Luhowy, Haley Chipelski and Braylynn McAuley replied
for the Chiefs. The teams were tied 0-0 and 2-2 at the intermissions.
Gracie Meeches earned the win in goal, while Madison Fleury was between the pipes for Yellowhead.
CHIEFS 8 INTERLAKE 0
Pyper Rapley made 10
saves for the shutout and three players scored two goals each as the Chiefs blanked the Lightning 8-0 in Stonewall on Saturday, Nov. 2. Addison Luhowy, Kimberlee Malcolm and Hayla Matheson each scored twice for the visitors, who held pe-
NOTES
travel
The
riod leads of 1-0 and 3-0.
Avery McGonigal and Bryleigh Barnes notched singles.
Emma Cassils and Kylie Barlyski combined to make 24 saves in the Interlake net.
–
Chiefs
to Deloraine to face the Westman Wildcats on Sunday, Nov. 10.
PHOTO BY DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAI N PRESS
RIGHT: Malcolm McArthur of Birtle protects the puck from a Brandon defender on Saturday,Nov.2
PHOTO BY DARRELL NESBITT SOUTH MOUNTAI N PRESS
Mun.of ClanwilliamErickson
Council of the Municipality of Clanwilliam-Erickson (MCE) met for special meetings on Sept. 26 and 27, both dealing with By-Law No. 9424.
First reading was given to By-Law No. 94-24, a by-law to extend an existing loan to Little Hands Early Learnig Centre on the 26th, with the second and third and final reading given at the 27th meeting. In favour – Councillor Shellborn, Councillor
Municipal Minutes
Cameron, and Deputy Reeve Johnson. Oct.9 meeting
Laurence Bertram, representing the South Ditch Lake Recreational Co-op gave thanks to council and administration for progress on subdivision to date. Bertram senses a disconnect between other investments the Municipality has made in infrastructure, and the expectations placed on the Co-op membership to bring a private road up to specification prior to the Municipality
agreeing to take ownership of it. Bertram also requested a meeting with council to negotiate development agreement as soon as possible.
Council gave final two readings and passed By-Law No. 92-24, a by-law to create and augment the Economic Development Reserve fund.
In Favour – Councillor Johnson, Councillor Cameron, and Reeve Baraniuk.
First reading was given to By-Law No. 95-24, a by-law to amend Property Standards By-Law No. 46-17.
Council was in favour of the request put forth by the Community Archery Club to locate two sea can containers east of the Erickson Skating Arena.
Council approved the proposed reduction in the building area of 57 Centre Avenue, Erickson, as proposed by the property owner – the first of two proposed dwellings will be 936 sq. ft. in area plus open deck area, with construction completed in spring of 2025. Council also extended the deadline of the develop-
Action ramping up in Westman
High SchoolHockey League
The Westman High School Hockey League is starting to ramp up with most area teams seeing action, with the exception being the local Minnedosa/Erickson squad.
The Hamiota-Rivers-EltonStrathclair Huskies had a good week, picking up five of six points. The Birtle-Shoal LakeRossburn-Birdtail Falcons won one of their three games.
VM 13 BSRB 2
Vincent Massey – Tyler Rogers (3), Josh Romanik (3), Drew Young (2), Theron McGregor, Lucas Newman, Daylan Duncalfe, Tate Bercier, Brady Wiltsy
Birtle-Shoal Lake-RossburnBirdtail – Logan Armitage, Haden Mackedenski
Virden 8 BSRB 1
Virden – Jaden BrowningLozinski, Dexen Routledge, Shane Ritchie, Brayden Rowan, Hunter Andries
Birtle-Shoal Lake-RossburnBirdtail – Aiden Lewis KW 4 HRES 3 (SO) Killarney-Wawanesa – Landon Lockhart, Neilan Slater, Jesse Wilton
Hamiota-Rivers-EltonStrathclair – Jaxen Dziver, Pierce Cords, Jack Oakden VM 8 MP 4
HIGH SCHOOL
Vincent Massey – Mason Twordik (3), William Smith (2), Jett Aitken, Logan Harvey, Ethan Furtney
Major Pratt – Kane Reagh, Raphael Mowbray, Conner Jordan, Reese Talbot
BSRB 8 BDWP 7 (SO)
Birtle-Shoal LakeRossburn-Birdtail – Clayton Malchuk (2), Carter Judd (2), Reid Luhowy, Aiden Lewis, Colby Tataryn Boissevain-DeloraineWaskada-Pierson – Josh Unrau (3), Myles McGregor (2), Connor Miller, Tyson Polnik HRES 5 KW 2
Hamiota-Rivers-Elton-
– Chael Rozdeba, Jaxen Dziver, Kirk Bayes, Clay Munz, Peyton Tolton
Killarney-Wawanesa – Aubrey Cuvelier, Landon Lockhart HRES 8 MP 1
Hamiota-Rivers-Elton-
SATURDAY, NOV. 9
7:00 P.M. vs .PRINCE ALBERT MONDAY, NOV. 11 2:30 P.M. vs .LETHBRIDGE
FRIDAY, NOV. 15
ment agreement by 12 months. Originally, the MCE sold this piece of property through a tender process, which the purchaser signed a development agreement committing to build a dwelling of 1,000 sq. ft. minimum, by a deadline of 24 months from the date of purchase.
Based on a request, the Municipality will widen a rural agriculture approach at SW 24-17-18 W to 30 feet top width.
Council was in favour to purchase a wreath in the amount of $44 and send a delegate to the Remembrance Day Ceremonies at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #143.
Council approved the payment of $326,350 for the mu-
nicipal grader, with such funds coming from the Equipment Replacement Reserve Fund.
Council will provide $175 each to Sarah Forget and Colton Lamport to reimburse their expenses for CSA safety boots following the completion of their duties in the 2024 Green Team season. Among the matters, CAO Ian Edye advised council on included a meeting with Otter Lake cottage representatives to deal with issues regarding grader and snowplow access; transfer station construction and landfill closure update; sewage lagoon – potential expansion, Ward 1 byelection, elm tree removals, and Erickson Main Street sidewalk project.
NOTICE OF MEETING
Emailus today at smpnews@mymts.net
Strathclair
Strathclair – Reid Hutchings, Jaxen Dziver, Samuel RivasBanos, Kirk Bayes, Pierce Cords, Landon Dmyterko, Drayson Sheridan, Jack Oakden Major Pratt – Luke Halwas
NDP halts nine new school builds
Neepawa: The Banner & Press – The construction of nine new schools across Manitoba, including a vocational high school in Neepawa, are not proceeding as planned. The Canadian Press reported that after an extensive review, Manitoba’s NDP led government was officially ending all current plans related to the build of nine schools throughout the province. Last year, the then Progressive Conservative helmed government promised to have new schools built through what is known as a P3 model. The P3 concept involves a public / private sector hybrid.
Dauphin: The Herald –The City of Dauphin is weighing its options under a new provincial government program supporting critical infrastructure. The Manitoba Growth, Renewal and Opportunities for Municipalities (Manitoba GRO) program kicks off with an investment of $42 million for projects which focus on community renewal, disaster mitigation, climate resiliency, and recreation. Municipalities outside of Winnipeg can apply for grant funding up to 50 percent of total eligible costs for capital projects under certain investment categories.
Baldur/Glenboro: The Gazette – Citizens of Glenboro and area may have been asking the question, “What can I do with all these spuds?” should they have been one to secure a bag or pail of new potatoes given away by MillsHof Colony. With a surplus of potatoes, the colony opted to pay it forward.
Pilot Mound: The Hometown View – Terrible strong winds may have had out of town people driving versus flying into the Manitou Airport on Oct. 1, but it was for a great celebration. On this day, members, supporters, and pilots came together to help the Manitou Flying Club celebrate the airport’s 60th anniversary.
Boissevain: The Recorder – Those who have known the challenges and mysteries of Whitewater Lake had the opportunity to experience it in a new way on Oct. 29. “Whitewater Lake: The Beauty and the Challenge” had its film debut at the Boissevain Community Theatre that evening. This is the third film created by the Turtle Mountain Souris Plains Heritage Association.
Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – Karen Berglund of Moosomin had big dreams for her second children’s book entitled ‘Amos the Famous’. Released in early September, Berglund’s book has already earned #1 Best Seller Status in several categories on Amazon.
Roblin: The Review
Paper Clips
News from MB/SK weeklies
Mountain View School Division and the provincial government are proceeding with plans to develop 104 childcare spaces at Roblin Elementary School as part of the government’s childcare expansion initiative. The division learned in July that it was receiving funding for new childcare spaces in Ethelbert, Winnipegosis and Roblin.
Pilot Mound: The Hometown View – What’s 1,100 athletes to Clearwater? Plenty, as Marvin Gundrum, who grew up in the community came to know while growing up in the town. As an adult and high school athletics teacher at Somerset, he realized what a great venue Clearwater could be for the Manitoba High School Athletic Association Provincial Cross Country Championship held on Oct. 9.
Whitewood: Grasslands News – Work is continuing for the design and construction of a new fire hall in Whitewood with preliminary floor plans currently being finalized by architectural engineers. The need to replace the fire hall developed into plans to build a facility that would not only meet the needs of the fire department, but also provide a facility for local paramedics, including ambulance bays, offices, and living quarters.
Geese overhead and smaller wildlife on the move signal that fall will give way to winter sooner than later. It’s also the time of year when deer are being spotted in stubble fields, ditches, and along tree lines, blending in well with the foliage. This fawn, one of two, along with their mother grazed leisurely alongside Highway 10 recently, as motorists slowed for a look. Keep in mind Whitetail Deer rifle reason, along with leaps and bounds, begins Nov. 11 and runs for three weeks.
Kitchens, Baths Waterproof Showers
Masonry Field
Virden: The EmpireAdvance – The Reston & Area Veterans Banner Committee held a celebration on Oct. 19 to acknowledge the wonderful response the project has received since it began in March 2023. This year the banners in Pipestone now hang in the newly renovated Pipestone Memorial Park and next spring work will begin to erect poles in the Reston Memorial Park to hang Reston banners. The next few months will be the deciding factor on how much longer the banner program will continue. Matthew Kroeker Journeyman Mason
Veneers Fireplaces Masonry Heaters
Poppy a revered sign of remembrance
It is in November when poppies are most revered. Back in the early 19th century, during the Napoleonic wars was the first connection of the poppy to those who lost their lives in times of war. The fields of war were barren before the battles were fought but after the fighting ended the fields were filled with mile after mile of blood-red poppies. Once again during World War I, when some 8.5 million soldiers died due to battlefield injuries or disease, the fields became rich with lime from rubble and again the poppies thrived.
Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian from Guelph, ON and a surgeon for an Allied artillery unit, spotted these poppies and wrote the famous poem “In Flanders Field”. This poem forever memorialized the poppy and in the 1920’s Madame Guerin first used the sale of handmade poppies to raise monies for children and to help rebuild war ravaged France.
Today, it is the mission of the Royal Canadian Legion to “serve veterans and their dependents, to promote Remembrance, and to act in the service of Canada and its communities”. The Poppy Campaign is not only a major funding source distributing poppies Canada wide, but also serves to perpetuate Remembrance and ensures the memory of the sacrifices made by our war veterans both today and yesterday are not forgotten. Please help to support this mission by buying a poppy and wearing it proudly!
In addition to being a revered symbol, poppies are simply a stunning plant! They do not need a lot of care and there are over 50 species of annuals and perennials that can be grown quite easily. The only downside to growing any poppy is their short blooming time. Grow them if you can in a sheltered location in almost any types of soil that is well drained.
The Flanders or Shirley poppies (Papaver rhoes) are one of the simplest poppies you can grow. It is a remarkable experience to see seas of scarlet in the fields of Europe. I will never forget in the heart of England going for a walk one evening – through the village, past an ancient well and up a pathway to the top of a rise. At the top of the rise, just as the sun was setting were endless miles of red which of course was none other than the immortalized poppy!
Patricia Hanbidge GARDENING
The Iceland poppy (P. nudicale) is a biennial that grows like an annual. The silky petals are intensely coloured and will produce up to 50 flowers per plant. Ensure that you plant this selection in an unmulched area to allow reseeding.
The Oriental poppy (P. orientale) that boasts large orange, red or salmon flowers in June or July. Try the dwarf cultivars ‘Allegro’, which is featured in the image with this article or ‘Beauty of Livermore’ which has blood red flowers and grows up to a metre in height.
P. somniferum (corn poppy) is a large flowered poppy that produces huge flowers. Following bloom, the large seed pods are filled with edible seeds and are also very attractive in dried arrangements.
The Himalayan blue poppy actually belongs to a different genus (Meconopsis) and is similar to true poppies in many ways. It is a perennial for us here and blooms a beautiful blue.They need to be grown in partial shade and need an evenly moist environment.
Grow poppies of any kind in full sun and rich, welldrained soil. Poppies are easy to plant – simply sprinkle seeds lightly on the soil and gently work in. As the seedlings grow, thin so there is 4 to 8 inches between plants. Many poppies will self-seed so ensure that they are planted where they can spread. Although the flowers are spectacular, the foliage is less so, so plant them behind other perennials so the foliage is less obvious after bloom.
Lest we forget – Nov. 11, take a moment to remember... and next spring, grow more poppies!
Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www. orchidhort.com; by email at info@orchidhort.com; or on facebook @orchidhort.
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
Poppies can be grown in residentialyards and gardens
RCMP investigating grandparent scams
On Oct. 30, Portage la Prairie RCMP received two reports of senior citizens within the community being defrauded of money after receiving a call from an individual claiming to be a lawyer. One resident from Portage la Prairie and one from MacGregor, both stated the unknown male caller was claiming to be a lawyer for their grandchild. In both cases, the suspect would provide the victim with the grandchild’s name, indicating that they were in jail and needed money for bail. Both victims agreed to provide money to the suspect.
The incident in Portage la Prairie saw the suspect come to the house of the senior to retrieve the money. The incident in Macgregor had the suspect meet the senior at a location on Hampton Street. Prior to these incidents, on Oct. 29, calls of a very similar nature were also reported to have occurred in Minnedosa and Kleefeld. In both cases, the victims gave the suspect a significant amount of money.
On Oct. 24, the RCMP detachment in East St. Paul was
COMING EVENTS
Gold Leaf Events Christmas Craft Market, Saturday, Nov. 30 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Minnedosa United Church AND the 50+ Centre. We will have amazing local vendors in ‘both’ venues. There will be a raffle with proceeds to the Minnedosa Fire Department, Market Dollar giveaways and more. Admission is $2 (12 and under are free). Admission covers both locations.
Oakburn Lions Club Annual Grey Cup Breakfast, Sunday, Nov. 17, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the Oakburn Community Hall. Adults $15, under 12 years $10 and preschoolers free. 50/50 draw. Please bring a non-perishable food item for our “Fill The Shelves Food Drive” in support of our local food bank. We hope to see you.
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
Pianist Wanted: Minnedosa United Church is seeking a Pianist for Sunday morning services, 10:00 a.m. to Noon, September to June. Position will start as soon as possi-
RCMP Briefs
made aware of a senior citizen within the community who received a similar grandparent scam call. In this instance, the victim was pickedup by the suspect and driven to the bank. The victim then withdrew a significant amount of money and gave it to the suspect believing her grandchild was in trouble. It is unknown at this time if all cases are directly related.
“These incidents are extremely concerning to the Manitoba RCMP. The criminals are using information obtained through various means, such as social media, to deceive and steal significant amounts of money from
ble. Monthly salary. To provide keyboard accompaniment for congregation and choir. May include hymns, anthems, special music, prelude, postlude selections. Organ available. For more information call 204-867-2674, Minnedosa United Church, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesday to Friday.
STRAW FOR SALE
Flax straw for sale, Stonewall, $4/bale. Call Nick at 1-204-4610706 or Bill at 1-204-461-1906, Monday to Saturday.
ARTICLES FOR SALE
Book your Christmas Ads now. Do you take online orders in your business. Let us help you advertise it from November on. Now booking advertising for the remainder of 2024. Plan your success. Have your blanket classified ads seen in the 31-Member Newspapers which are seen in over 368,000+ homes in Manitoba. Please call this newspaper 204-759-2644 to book now or call MCNA at 204-947-1691 for more details or to book ads. MCNA - Manitoba Community Newspa-
HEALTHY LUNGS
HELP YOU LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST!
TAKE A MOMENT TO LEARN HOW TO KEEP THEM IN TOP SHAPE THIS SEASON
TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST TODAY ABOUT SEASONAL IMMUNIZATION. Protectyourbreath.ca
senior citizens. The fact that they are showing up at homes and even driving with the victims speaks to their everincreasing confidence in carrying-out these scams,” Cst. Larry Neufeld of the Portage La Prairie detachment. “These criminals play on the emotions of seniors and their willingness to help a family member in need. The RCMP would like to remind the public that they should never give money to unknown individuals and to immediately report crimes of this nature to their nearest RCMP detachment.”
GRANDPARENT SCAM TIPS FROM THE CANADIAN ANTI-FRAUD CENTRE
How to protect yourself:
•If you receive a phone call claiming to be from a family member in an emergency situation, hang up the phone and contact them directly using a phone number you already have – not one provided by the suspected fraudster.
•If the caller claims to be a law enforcement official, hang up and call your local police directly, using a phone num-
pers Association. www.mcna.com
NOTICES
Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228 www.firstand secondmortgages.ca
It’s hard to believe but not everyone has Facebook. This ad
ber from a reputable source –not one provided by the suspected fraudster.
•Be suspicious of telephone calls that require you to immediately act and request money for a family member in distress.
•Listen to that inner voice that is screaming at you “This doesn’t sound right”.
•It is important to know the Canadian Criminal Justice System does not allow for someone to be bailed out of jail with cash or cryptocurrency.
•Be careful what you post online.
•Scammers can get details that you shared on social media platforms and dating sites to target you or get names and details about your loved ones.
•Don’t trust caller ID names and numbers.
•Scammers use technology to disguise the actual number they are calling from and can make it appear as a trusted phone number, also known as spoofing.
If anyone has any information about any crime, please
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.
contact your local RCMP detachment. Anonymous tips can also be made through Manitoba Crime Stoppers at 1800-222-TIPS (8477), or by visitingwww.manitobacrimes toppers.com.
On Nov. 1, Swan River RCMP responded to a report of an unresponsive male in Legion Park in the Town of Swan River. Officers arrived on scene and located a 21year-old male, from Brandon, with obvious injuries who was pronounced deceased on scene. On Nov. 2, the investigation into the death of the 21year-old male led to the arrest of a 16-year-old male youth, from Swan River, who was charged with 2ndDegree Murder and remanded into custody. A second 16-year-old male, from Swan River, has also been arrested and remains in police custody. The victim and suspects were known to each other as this was not a random attack.
On Oct. 26, RCMP officerswere called to attend to the screening area at the Win-
nipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport on a report of a suitcase containing a large quantity of Canadian currency. Officers then attended to the departure area and located the owner of the suitcase. A 30-year-old male, from Calgary, who was destined for Toronto, was arrested for Possession of Proceeds of Crime and later released from custody for a future court appearance.
On Oct. 24, officers with the RCMP Roving Traffic unit conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle located on Highway 1, near Road 84W, in the Rural Municipality of North Cypress-Langford. The traffic stop led to the arrest of the driver, a 39-year-old male from Calgary, for the possession of Proceeds of Crime. A search of the vehicle led to the seizure of a large sum of Canadian Currency. The 39year-old male was later released from police custody for a future court appearance in Brandon, where he will face a charge of Possession of Proceeds of Crime over $5,000.
VISIT www.gartonsauction.com for equipment details, pictures, and bidding.
TRACTORS, VEHICLES, TRAILERS: Kioti DK SE MFWD tractor, KL 351 FEL, bucket, 3pt hitch, 898 hours, etc; MF 35 gas tractor, multi-power, 3pt hitch, remote hydraulics, etc; GMC Sierra 1500SL, 465,567km; 2006 GMC Envoy Denali, 372,322 km, well maintained; Load Trail car hauler trailer, 7’x18’ long; Great Northern trailer 10’x6.5’x22” sides, etc; FARM MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT: adjustable pallet forks, tractor-mount tree shear, 3pth finishing mower, 8’ tractor blade; Leon adjustable-width blade, 7’ center, for 3pth; 5’ grapple fork; NH Model 450 3pt hitch; 7’ sickle mower; YARD, GARDEN, RECREATION: Benchmark 22” electric snow blower; NH MZ 18h zero-turn mower, 48” deck; Snapper SP lawnmower 21”, 6.5 hp motor; garden, yard tools, camping gear, sports equipment; ATV cabin; backpack fire fighting sprayer; TOOLS AND SHOP: wide variety of mechanic’s tools and shop items, some brand-new; Craftex metal lathe model 2227L with accessories; Power Fist 12T hydraulic shop press; Mastercraft 15” drill press; Oliver Intellicarve Model 1013, 13” carving machine; Rockwell/Beaver 10” table saw/table; Giant Tools plasma cutter; Lincoln 225 AC welder; Delta air cleaner; Clarkweld MIG 95 flux core unit/cart; metal forming kit/stand; metal shrinker/stretcher; sand blasting cabinet; building materials; oil, other fluids; tool boxes, storage racks, etc; outdoor lighting cables, lighting; HOUSEHOLD, OFFICE, OTHER ITEMS: Kitchen and bathroom fixtures, lighting; Acer computer, Epson printer, printer
