South Mountain P re s s
A WALK IN THE PARK Smart Farming
As morning temperatures dip, the need for a warm fall jacket is a must, such as the ones these two ladies donned while strolling along a pathway within the park setting of Wasagaming earlier this month. Riding Mountain National Park staff and business owners are busy preparing the community for the winter slow down, with trees becoming bare, squirrels scurrying about to hide a stash, and the crunch of leaves being mulched. But despite that, the scenes within Riding Mountain National Park are still majestic.
PHOTO BY DARRELL NESBITT SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
Legislation looks to keep vehicle insurance
The Manitoba government has introduced new legislation to enshrine the current registered owner model into law, ensuring it remains the model used by Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI), Justice Minister Matt Wiebe, minister responsible for Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation, announced.
“Our government is making sure vehicle insurance rates remain affordable for Manitoba families,” said Wiebe. “By keeping MPI public and protecting the registered owner model, our government is ensuring stable, affordable insurance for Manitobans, now and in the future.”
“We’re putting MPI back on track and protecting Manitobans from future attempts
to raise rates on families through changes to the insurance model,” said Wiebe.
“These new protections are part of our government’s way of saving Manitobans money, which includes freezing hydro rates, providing permanent gas tax relief, and maintaining some of the lowest car insurance rates in Canada.”
The Manitoba Public Insurance Amendment Act (2) ensures that MPI remains stable, affordable and focused on serving Manitobans, the minister noted.
NEWS TIP?
Municipality of Harrison Park
PUBLIC NOTICE
BOARD OF REVISION
Public notice is hereby given that the year 2026 assessment roll for the Municipality of Harrison Park has been delivered to the Municipal Office at 43 Gateway Street, Onanole, MB and is open for public inspection during regular business hours. Applications for revision may be made in accordance with Sections 42 & 43 of The Municipal Assessment Act:
APPLICATION FOR REVISION
42(1) A person in whose name property has been assessed, a mortgagee in possession of property under Section 114(1) of The Real Property Act, an occupier of premises who is required under the terms of a lease to pay the taxes on the property, or the assessor may make application for the revision of an assessment roll with respect to;
a) liability to taxation;
b) amount of an assessed value;
c) classification of property; or
d) a refusal by an assessor to amend the assessment roll under subsection 13(2).
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
43(1) An application for revision must
a) be made in writing;
b) set out the roll number and legal description of the assessable property for which a revision is sought;
c) set out which of the matters referred to in subsection 42(1) are at issue, and the grounds for each of those matters; and
d) be filed by
(i) delivering it or causing it to be delivered to the office indicated in the public notice given under subsection 41(2), or
(ii) serving it upon the secretary, at least 15 days before the scheduled sitting date of the board as indicated in the public notice.
The Board of Revision will sit on Nov. 20, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Municipal Office, 43 Gateway Street, Onanole, MB to hear applications.
Applications for revision must be received by the Secretary of the Board by 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025
Dated this 10th day of October, 2025.
Chad Davies, CMMA Secretary – Board of Revision Municipality of Harrison Park Box 190, 43 Gateway Street Onanole, MB R0J 1N0
HALLOWEEN SPIRIT
DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
Two weeks from now, parents and youth will knock on doors, chanting “Halloween Apples”, however, before the costumes are donned for a school party or community connection, homeowners are gaily decorating yards. This stall standing ghostly figurine in front of an Erickson home is scary enough in the daylight, let alone at night, casting an eerie welcome to one and all. Schools and/or places of employment may discover fun and creativity by putting forth a Halloween Spirit Week to boost team spirit, from costume contests to themed treats and spooky décor.
UTV WANTED
Clanwilliam-Erickson Fire Rescue fundraising for specialized equipment to better help them assist in emergencies
The work of a firefighter can be challenging, but also rewarding in providing an opportunity to serve the community and make a positive impact on people’s lives.
Duties and responsibilities of firefighters encompass a wide range of tasks aimed at protecting life, property, and the environment during emergency situations. Key responsibilities include fire suppression where firefighters are trained to extinguish fires using various techniques and equipment, including fire hoses, fire extinguishers, and specialized tools. They work as a team to contain and extinguish fires, prevent their spread, and protect nearby structures and occupants.
At the time of need, communities and municipal jurisdictions are grateful for the personnel who serve. A volunteer fire department is only as good as the arsenal of equipment on hand to ease frustration, battle stubborn fires, and aid in efforts when a need arises.
With costs of all firefighting equipment, supplies and gear, being very expensive, fire departments may opt to fundraise on their own to subsidize the cost of which a municipality and ratepayers may have to bare.
As you may learned through advertisements and/ or posters, the ClanwilliamErickson Fire Rescue (CEFR) is presently fundraising for the purchase of an ultimate task or terrain vehicle (UTV), a much needed piece of equipment in terms of a wildland fires. Grateful for the Municipality of ClanwilliamErickson’s support in terms of funding for this specialized vehicle, local firefighters are also standing behind the purchase, fundraising the balance through grants and financial donations (tax deductible) to reach the goal set.
“After the coronavirus pandemic, the costs of firefighting equipment has risen sharply,” said John Braschuk, CEFR Fire Chief. “For instance, a fire truck is now $850,000 compared to $350,000, not factoring in other accessories required other than nozzles and hoses stationed on the truck itself.”
Braschuk touched on additional costs... “To place a firefighter in turn out gear helmet, boots and balaclava gloves, $5,000 plus, certified for 10 years then needs to be replaced; breathing apparatus, $12,000 per set (department has 6 sets) plus yearly certification; a set of Jaws of
Life, up to $70,000; and additional accessories such as blowers, chainsaws, small tools, and the list goes on.”
To meet the needs of a small community, it takes a concentrated effort of all involved to keep safety at the forefront. It’s not only fires that volunteer firefighters are called to, as they are drawn from family functions to conduct search and rescue operations, emergency medical care, and hazardous material response.
MULTISEASON UNIT
In terms of an UTV, the multi season unit is very popular in many departments, locally and provincially, and has proven to be a very universal piece of equipment with the option of wheels and a set of tracks for winter use. In the past, some departments had a quad or a snowmobile or even both in their hall. The UTV has changed that outlook and brought so much more thanks to its versatility.
Maneuverability in all kinds of terrain where fire trucks have a hard time accessing many areas is the #1 reason why an UTV is extremely beneficial. It can access in all weather conditions including wet fields but dry on top, snow, rough terrain, and bush where an $850,000 fire truck should not be going. Its ability to transport up to 6 personnel but 4 comfortably with a box on the back to haul equipment depending on the emergency is a tool in itself.
Presently a UTV with all the options required to be an all season unit is presently $52,000 before taxes and a wildland fire skid for the back with water tank, pres-
sure pump, hose reel, hose and nozzle is $6,000 plus depending on options.
“It’s an expensive piece of equipment but after this spring’s wildfire season and our past seasons this unit would have been a very big help for our area and department,” stressed Braschuk. “Based on needs and terrain, additional requirements including LED lighting, upgraded tires, set of tracks, and an upgraded winch to 6,000 pounds, will add costs but keep operators and personnel safe.”
The popular piece of equipment is noted as a mini fire truck, a snowmobile and quad all in one unit with an enclosed cab in the winter and ability to move personnel in summer, able to put out fires in hard to get areas and back in the bush. Speaking with other fire departments, Braschuk stated they couldn’t stress enough how much an UTV has improved their capabilities in responding and fire suppression.
“Prior to putting a proposal into municipal council, this piece of equipment was well researched, and I can’t stress enough how important to the area and the fire department and its members, it will bring dividends as the CEFR responds to many incidents from wildfire and snowmobile rescues, which some are very serious accidents in hard to get areas,” said Braschuk. “As we have been preparing for years for a UTV, the coronavirus pandemic stalled that venture and increased the price substantially unfortunately.”
CEFR’s 18 firefighters participate in ongoing training and professional development activities to maintain and en-
hance their skills, knowledge, and readiness to respond to emergencies. This includes
regular drills, simulations, and continuing education courses to stay current with
best practices, emerging technologies, and changes in firefighting protocols.
The CEFR has attended motor vehicle accidents, grass fires, and structural fires, some taking many hours to get under control and/or extinguish. Of the 28 calls, the most serious was a house fire with the loss of a life this spring.
Backed by very well trained and dedicated personnel, it can be said communities and surrounding areas are well protected thanks to individuals departments in Minnedosa, Rolling River First Nation and Sandy Lake, or a concentrated effort under the South Central Mutual Aid jurisdiction.
Laying their working and training relationships on the line with each 9-1-1 page, the commitment and dedication of firefighters doesn’t go unnoticed, when they sound the alarm.
Sandy Lake Lions Club
The Sandy Lake Lions Club would like to thank everyone who has assisted our club to raise money by purchasing draw tickets, volunteering your time, attending the annual pancake breakfast (July 1) and the perogie supper (Western Days), camping in our Lions Campground, and making cash donations.
The funds raised over recent years has allowed our club to donate close to $70,000 to numerous charities and organizations, some of which include:
• In Sandy Lake: The Rec Centre, Roller Rink, Legion, Erickson/Sandy Lake Handi Van, Personal Care Home, Lake Protection Working Group, Drop In Centre, Sunrise Credit Union, Fireworks, Western Days Kiddies Corner, and the Annual Fishing Derby
• In Erickson: Erickson Elementary Breakfast Program, Christmas and Thanksgiving Dinners, Basketball Nets, Erickson Collegiate Scholarships and Christmas Dinner, The Erickson-Clanwilliam Child Care Initiative, and The Little Valley Jamboree
• Stars Ambulance, Heart and Stroke, Journey for Sight, Canada Fund for Ukraine, Canada Guide Dogs, Childhood Cancer Foundation, Christmas Cheer and many more.
The Sandy Lake Lions Club has also provided financial assistance and support to families in need.
Because of your support, and the work of our members, we will continue to serve our community and beyond. THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN!
Erickson/Sandy Lake Handi Van receives $10,000 from the Sandy Lake Lions Club
DARRELL NESBITT
South Mountain Press
Department personnelfrom left:Kanyon Flick,Kerrie Butler (Deputy Chief),Larry Safroniuk (Captain),John Braschuk (Fire Chief),Jim Avram,Shaun Oakley,Randyn Brandt,Trevor Petrinchuk,Donnie Vaughn (Captain),Louis Maluk,Michael Kvern, Jayme McManus, and Vaughn Ullberg (Deputy Chief). Missing from photo: Evan Hasselstrom, Danielle Busato, Daniel Speckert,Jeremy Plett,and Joey Robinson.
Friday, October 17, 2025
Letters to the editor: smpnews@mymts.net
Keeping post offices open is a waste of money
Flipping through an envelope of quips, quotes, notes and other essential material received by snail mail from the west coast – well, you know when the strikers were actually working.
Do you wonder why Canada Post offices are open if no mail is being received and addressed?
First time around, postmasters or postmistresses sorted local mail … you know an addressed weekly newspaper, an addressed birthday card, an addressed bill, or simply an addressed note to a fellow community citizen.
Not the second time around though, staff will gladly sell you a stamp, but won’t accept the mailing over the counter. Larger post offices even have taped their receiving wickets shut.
If that’s the case why is Canada Post wasting money by keeping post offices open during the strike? Closing
Darrell Nesbitt AROUND TOWN
them outright would make more sense!
SpecialPoem
A row of bottles on my shelf, Caused me to analyze myself.
One yellow pill I have to pop, Goes to my heart so it won’t stop.
A little white one that I take, Goes to my hands so they won’t shake. The blue ones that I use a
lot, Tell me I’m happy when I’m not.
The purple pill goes to my brain, And tells me that I have no pain.
The capsules tell me not to wheeze, Or cough or choke or even sneeze.
The red ones, smallest of them all, Go to my blood so I won’t fall.
The orange ones, very big and bright, Prevent my leg cramps in the night.
Such an array of brilliant pills, Helping to cure all kinds of ills.
But what I’d really like to know… Is what tells each one where to go?
There’s always a lot to be thankful for if you take time to look for it.
For example, I am sitting here thinking, How nice it is that wrinkles don’t hurt.
Do the Math
A mathematician, an accountant and an economist apply for the same job.
The interviewer calls in the mathematician and asks, “What does two plus two equal?” The mathematician replies “Four”. The interviewer asks “Four, exactly?”
The mathematician looks at the interviewer incredulously and says, “Yes, four, exactly.”
Then the interviewer calls in the accountant and asks the same question, “What does two plus two equal?”
The accountant says “On average, four – give or take 10 percent, but on average, four.”
Then the interviewer calls in the economist and poses the same question.
The economist gets up, locks the door, closes the shade, sits down next to the interviewer and says, “What do you want it to equal?”
Psychic Hotline
A frog telephones the Psychic Hotline for advice. The psychic tells him: “You are going to meet a beautiful
young girl who will want to know everything about you.”
The frog is thrilled, “This is great! Will I meet her at a party?” “No,” says his advisor, “in her biology class.”
Memories ofthe 50s
Store bought snacks were rare because my mother liked to cook, And nothing can compare to snacks in Betty Crocker’s book.
The snacks were even healthy with the best ingredients, No labels with a hundred things that make not a bit of sense.
Weekends were for family trips or staying home to play, We all did things together –even go to church to pray.
When we did our weekend trips depending on the weather, No one stayed at home because we like to be together.
Useless Information
– The world’s youngest parents were 8 and 9 and lived in China in 1910.
– Mark Twain didn’t graduate from elementary school.
– Hot water is heavier than cold.
– They have square watermelons in Japan. They stack better.
– Starfish have eight eyes
– one at the end of each leg.
– Iceland consumes more Coca-Cola per capita than any other nation.
– First novel ever written on a typewriter was “Tom Sawyer”.
Until next week… Age is not a barrier to success; it’s a ladder to wisdom.
Sometimes we would separate to do things on our own, But we knew where the others were without our own cell phone. Then there were the movies with your favourite movie star, And nothing can compare to watching movies in your car.
Canadians need fact-based, fact-checked information
In their 2018 book Truth Decay, Jennifer Kavanagh and Michael D. Rich of the RAND Corporation, wrote about the role news publishers and broadcasters play in mediating information – separating fact from fiction. They differentiate between these businesses and Big Tech platforms, arguing that because the former can be sued for defamation and hold themselves to journalistic standards, they remain accountable.
According to Kavanagh and Rich, “the filters and algorithms embedded in social media platforms and search engines, such as Google, contribute to Truth Decay – and particularly to increasing disagreement and the blurring of the distinction between opinion and fact – by inserting bias into the types of information a person is likely to encounter or engage with.”
In the seven years since their book was published, generative artificial intelligence has compounded the problem. AI companies are flagrantly scraping and summarizing content directly from published news articles. This is theft on an industrial scale – plain and simple. Publishers are being
Opinion
harmed because these artificial intelligence overviews are so detailed that the reader often stays within Big Tech’s walled garden, rather than being pointed electronically to news websites via links. No clicks mean no money for publishers to reinvest in fact-based, factchecked journalism.
Readers are being harmed too. All too often, these artificial intelligence overviews serve up slop: inaccurate, irrelevant, out of date, and even harmful information. In today’s attention economy, these companies prioritize engagement. That leaves it up to the user to try to separate fact from fiction.
In a world of misinformation and disinformation, we need fact-based, fact-checked journalism. Crowdsourcing is not journalism. There are no alternative facts: there are just facts. And Canadians need facts to live their lives and to make informed decisions that empower them to participate effectively in democratic processes.
“Buy Canadian” is part of the solution.
According to a recent re-
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
We welcome your comments on editorials, columns, or any subjects important to you. Only letters that include name,address and a daytime phone number will be considered for publication.
port from Canadian Media Means Business, 92 percent of digital ad dollars now going to non-Canadian platforms, which puts the sustainability of Canadian media is in jeopardy. Governments across Canada should not be spending their advertising dollars with foreign search and social media giants. They should walk the talk and “Buy Canadian”. They should follow the Government of Ontario’s lead and set aside a minimum of 25 percent of their advertising budgets for trusted news brands. And that should be one of the planks in the Government of Canada’s new Buy Canadian Policy, which seeks to ensure our economy is resilient and self-reliant.
Beyond ensuring federal advertising is placed in a brand safe manner and without any additional cost to the taxpayer, a federal set-aside would send an important signal to other orders of government and to the private sector about protecting Canada’s digital sovereignty and sus-
taining independent, commercially viable public interest journalism.
More than 85 percent of adults in Canada turn to newspaper content each week, and two-thirds trust
that content – ahead of television, radio, magazines, social media, and online search.
This National Newspaper Week, as we face the rise of fake news amplified by algorithms that prioritize engage-
ment, it is in everyone’s interest to protect the truth.
is
and
Paul Deegan
president
chief executive officer of News Media Canada
STRETCHING THE HOLIDAYS
Keeping the Thanksgiving festivities with some good old-fashioned prairie practicality for an anticipated encore
DONALD BERGER South Mountain Press
The indisputable charm of the valley in autumn is something to be cherished. Before winter settles in for its long stay, these short, brilliant days become a final celebration of light, colour, and abundance.
Families pose for portraits at Heritage Village in Minnedosa; couples stroll across the dam arm in arm, some toss wishes out onto the lake – hoping for another fun filled winter on the ice and a summer ahead with fewer wildfires, less algae bloom and smoke. Even a quiet walk along the Little Saskatchewan River can feel like an act of gratitude.
Minnedosa’s peaceful beauty and generosity of spirit are reasons enough to give thanks – and to pause, breathe in, and reflect on what the season truly means.
The long Thanksgiving weekend has now gently slipped by, leaving a soft lull along Main Street. Minnedosa Lake’s shoreline reflects a molten sky at sunset, and in kitchens across the valley, the hard-working geniuses behind the pans and bowls hum with the promise of repurposing yet another fantastic feast. Turkeys have been carved. Carcasses saved. Pies are half gone. Bread boxes are full of neglected slices. And crab apples – always more crab apples than even jam can handle. The question in many homes now: “What do we do from here?”
As a former chef who’s cooked thousands of turkeys across the globe for Thanksgivings and Christmas seasons, this time of year is indelibly stamped with food for me. And in all humility, that’s not bragging – it was simply my job, and it certainly explains my back pains. In my previous life over the years, I’ve literally loaded hundreds of commercial-sized roasting pans, each holding four turkeys, into massive rotatingshelf ovens.
Funny thing is, after all those years, there’s still one bird that sings “happy holidays” loudest: the humble turkey. Yah I know ‘gobblegobble’ isn’t much of a catchy tune, but it sure sounds like an encouragement to chow down and enjoy the feast.
I will share one of my closely guarded frugality secrets; I stalk the aisles of various supermarkets postholiday sales for days after
Thanksgiving and Christmas and then pounce on my prey, when fresh not yet frozen perfectly aged Manitobaraised Granny’s turkey can be had at bargain prices. Last year I caught eight whole turkeys at under 10 bucks each (even cheaper than whole chickens).
Granny’s is a farmer-owned co-operative right here in the province, and their turkeys are plump, deliciously cleantasting, and always a good value. I’ll fill the freezer with a few for the months ahead –it’s one of the best ratios of low-fat, high-quality, endorphin-producing protein to dollars spent. From there, the possibilities are endless: barbecue, soups, curries, roasts, sandwiches, stews, pâtés, burgers, and chili at will. Waste, after all, is the enemy of gratitude. And leftovers are not a chore – they’re the fantastic, anticipated encore.
When the big meal is over, the fridge becomes a stage for quiet creativity. Prairie practicality has always been about making something from what’s on hand – a pot of soup simmering on the stove, a sandwich that tastes incredibly better the second day, or a dessert reborn from crumbs. Here are two recipes that stretch
Thanksgiving’s bounty and the endorphins a little longer: one savoury, one sweet.
RECIPE #1
TURKEY PHO
Why it works: It’s aromatic, comforting, and turns the often-under-used carcass into something rich. Pho is “exotic enough” to get attention yet easily anchored in a humble prairie kitchen routine. Serves: 4–6.
Ingredients
•1 leftover turkey carcass (bones + bits)
•10–12 cups water
•1 onion, sliced (skin on, root removed)
•2–3-inch piece of ginger, smashed with a heavy knife
•1 cinnamon stick
•3–4 cloves of garlic
•Chicken powder or bouillon – and if adventurous, a dash of fish sauce (to taste)
•Dry rice noodles (pho style)
•Sliced turkey meat (from leftovers)
•Garnishes: sliced green onion, siracha and lime wedges; authentic but optional fresh garniture include bean sprouts, Asian basil, cilantro, or sliced red chili
Method
•Break apart the carcass and place into a large stockpot. Cover with water.
•Add onion, garlic,
chicken powder, and spices.
•Bring to a gentle simmer, then immediately lower heat and simmer for one hour, occasionally skimming off foam.
•Strain broth, discard solids, and return liquid to a clean pot. Season with fish sauce, salt, or pepper to taste.
•Soak rice noodles in water, then cook like pasta until al dente. Rewarm turkey meat.
•Serve in bowls: noodles, turkey meat, ladle hot broth, then top with green onion, chili, or sriracha and a squeeze of fresh lime.
Tip: Roast leftover vegetables like carrot or celery and add them to the broth for extra sweetness. It’s okay to skip the cilantro or fish sauce if your family’s not a fan.
RECIPE #2
UPCYCLED BREAD & BUTTER PUDDING
Why it works: Uses leftover bread, aging desserts, or bakery bits, and gives a warm, cozy finish – perfect for crisp fall nights. Serves: 6–8.
Ingredients
•6–8 cups cubed leftover bread (or mixed sweet breads)
•Butter (to lightly coat bread cubes)
•2 cups milk (or half milk, half cream)
•3 eggs
•1/2-3/4 cup sugar (adjust for sweetness of bread and left over dessert)
•1 tsp vanilla extract
•Dessert bits: chopped rough small pieces of leftover fruit, pie, cake, cookie, or pastry
For the crumble top:
•1/2 cup rolled oats
•1/4 cup flour
•1/4 cup brown sugar
•1 tsp cinnamon
•3 tbsp melted butter
•Optional: chopped nuts
Method
•Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a baking dish.
•Toss bread cubes in a bit of melted butter. Place in dish along with dessert bits.
•In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and spice. Pour over the leftover bread and dessert mixture, press down gently, and let rest 15 minutes.
•Mix crumble topping: oats, flour, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly on top.
•Bake 30–40 minutes, until pudding is set and the crumble golden.
•Serve warm with cream or a scoop of ice cream and bask in the delight.
Variation ideas: Add rumsoaked raisins, frozen or dried cranberries, Saskatoons or chopped apples – or seed and dice those crab apples
you’ve been avoiding. For a gluten-free twist, use glutenfree bread and omit the flour in the crumble.
GIVING THANKS
In small Manitoba towns, “enough” doesn’t come from abundance – it comes from family, neighbours, and making good use of what you have.
Maybe that’s why Thanksgiving feels especially true here and void of the crass commercialization that so many holiday celebrations have been tarnished by. We see the cycles clearly: fields cut and browning, gardens emptied and prepped for spring, lakes cooling to stillness, and soon enough to solid.
There’s a uniquely smalltown pride in stretching the holiday a few days longer letting the food tell its own story. It’s our legend, the rhythm of thrift and generosity, of handing a container of soup to an elderly neighbour or saving the last slice of pie for a child who had to leave early for the game.
The heart of Thanksgiving isn’t the feast or just a long weekend – it’s what we do when it is over. After all, practicing gratitude daily is an invaluable health hack and beauty treatment for young and old. As daylight grows shorter and the refreshing chill returns, we slip into its next favourite season: hockey practices at the rink, snow tires waiting in garages, and heart-warming soup simmering on the stove. On a brisk evening stroll after dusk, you might catch the glow from kitchen windows and the faint scent of cinnamon or turkey broth drifting into the cool fall air.
Monday to Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Closed for Lunch Hour)
Friday – CLOSED
Please feel free to use our answering service to leave a message outside of the above listed office hours.
South Mountain P re s s
Ph. 204 759 2644
Fax 204 759 2521
Email: smpnews@mymts.net
Shoal Lake, MB
The leftovers from your holiday meal can actually be something you and your family all look forward to with the right tips and tricks
6
Friday, October 17, 2025
U15 Chiefs earn tie with Interlake
The Yellowhead Chiefs earned a 2-2 tie with the visiting Interlake Lightning in a Winnipeg U15 AAA Hockey League game in Shoal Lake on Saturday, Oct. 11.
The overtime tie improved the Chiefs to 1-2-1 on the season.
The teams traded goals in the first and second periods, with Cooper Soltys and Sawyer Lepp scoring for the Chiefs, and Bentley McCorrister and Zachary Schram for the Lightning.
Darby Wilson finished with 31 saves in goal for Yellowhead, while Connor Lemieux made a whopping 58 saves in the Interlake net.
NOTES – The Chiefs will be in Winnipeg this weekend taking on the Bruins Gold on Saturday, Oct. 18 and the Wild Green on Sunday, Oct. 19.
Chiefs split pair of games over the weekend
The Yellowhead U18 Chiefs split a pair of weekend games in Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League action.
After losing to the Eastman Selects on the road on Saturday, Oct. 11, the Chiefs eked out a 4-3 overtime win over the Central Plains Capitals in Portage on Sunday, Oct. 12. Entering this weekend’s
U18
action, the Chiefs sit in a four-way tie for seventh place with a record of 3-4-0.
CHIEFS 4 CENTRAL PLAINS 3 (OT) Brody Bohemier scored
an unassisted goal with 1:28 remaining in overtime to lift the Chiefs to a 4-3 win over the Capitals in Portage on Sunday, Oct. 12.
The Capitals opened the scoring in the first period, but the Chiefs roared back with three unanswered second period goals to go into the dressing room leading 31. The Caps scored twice in just over two minutes early
in the third to tie the game. Grady McNish had a pair of goals for the hosts, with Wyatt Njegovan notching a single.
Kendrick Breemersch scored twice for Central Plains, with Ethan Breakey adding a single.
Sawyer Wallin made 28 saves in goal for Yellowhead. Karsen Dyck stopped 33 shots for the Capitals.
EASTMAN 7 CHIEFS 1
Crosby Mateychuk recorded a hat trick as the Selects skated to a 7-1 win over the Chiefs in Steinbach on Saturday, Oct. 11.
Jevon Peters, Kaden Gowryluk, Jimmy Wilcox and Ty Mistelbacher had the other goals for the hosts.
Wyatt Njegovan had the lone goal for the Chiefs, who
trailed 2-1 and 5-1 at the intermissions.
Zaiden McDonald-Horvath made 17 saves to pick up the win in the Eastman net. Landon McGregor blocked 39 shots for Yellowhead.
NOTES – The Chiefs will host the Interlake Lightning for a pair of games in Shoal Lake on Saturday, Oct. 18 and Sunday, Oct. 19.
Female Chiefs finish 1-3 at Alberta tournament
The Yellowhead U18 Female AAA Chiefs faced a number of tough teams at a tournament in Devon, AB over the Thanksgiving weekend and came home with a record of one win and three losses.
THOMPSON OKANAGAN 5
CHIEFS 2
In the Chiefs’ final game of intermissions.
U18 C Y
the tournament on Sunday, Oct 12, they dropped a 5-2 decision to the Lakers.
Haley Chipelski and Khloe Brown scored for the Chiefs, who trailed 2-0 and 2-1 at the
Kyle Hack made 30 saves in the Yellowhead net.
WEYBURN 6 CHIEFS 3
The Chiefs took a 1-0 first period lead but the Red Wings scored three unanswered second period goals in a 6-3 win on Saturday, Oct. 11.
Haley Chipelski scored twice and Jacey Oakden added
a single for the Chiefs. Gracie Johnston stopped 27 shots in net.
CHIEFS 4
NORTHERN ALBERTA 2
The Chiefs doubled the Extreme 4-2 in their second game of the tournament on Friday, Oct. 10.
Courtney Cochrane, Devyn Moncur, Emma Pollock and
Nicole Rozdeba tallied for the Chiefs who led 1-0 and 2-1 at the intermissions.
Kylie Hack made 24 saves to earn the win in goal.
LLOYDMINSTER 4 CHIEFS 1
Haley Chipelski had the lone goal for the Chiefs as they dropped a 4-1 decision to the Steelers in their tournament opener on Friday, Oct. 10.
The Steelers led 2-0 and 2-1 at the intermissions. Gracie Johnston finished with 27 stops in the Yellowhead net.
NOTES – The Chiefs return to league play this weekend with a home and home series against the Westman Wildcats, on Saturday, Oct. 18 in Shoal Lake and on Sunday, Oct. 19 back in Hartney.
U15 female Chiefs go 1-1 in pair of weekend games
The Yellowhead Chiefs
weekend games in the Manitoba Female U15 AAA Hockey League. The Chiefs defeated the Westman Wildcats 4-1, before being doubled 4-2 by the Brandon Wheat Kings.
BRANDON 4 CHIEFS 2
Natalie Hees and Emily Garrioch added singles for the visitors, who took a 2-1 second period lead after a scoreless first.
Replying for the Chiefs were Alexis Duncan and Ella Sellman.
Amara Reichert stopped 20 shots in the Brandon net,
while Kaydee Fleury made 21 saves for Yellowhead.
CHIEFS 4 WESTMAN 1
The Chiefs exploded for three unanswered third period goals for a 4-1 victory over the Wildcats in Shoal Lake on Friday, Oct. 10.
Brielle McGonigal opened
the scoring in the first period for the Chiefs and scored her second of the game into an empty Westman net with 1:31 left in the third. Scotia Smith, with the game winner, and Kenzie Gardner also tallied for the hosts.
Louelle Jasper had the lone Westman goal in the fist period.
Kaydee Fleury blocked 23 shots in goal for Yellowhead, while Ivy Nelson made 26 saves in the Brandon net.
NOTES – The Chiefs take a break from league action this weekend as they travel to a tournament in Alberta.
Fergie Bertholet scored twice as the Wheat Kings dumped the Chiefs 4-2 in Shoal Lake on Saturday, Oct. 11.
split a pair of
RCMP make arrests for Canada Post thefts
In late November of 2024 and into the early months of 2025, Spruce Plains RCMP received numerous reports of thefts from Canada Post mailboxes. These thefts were reported in the communities of Neepawa, Minnedosa, Arden, Kelwood, MacGregor, Carberry, Rapid City, Glenella, Erickson, Onanole, Sandy Lake, and Rivers. Investigators with the Spruce Plains RCMP conducted an extensive investigation which involved the examination of numerous mailbox sites, conducted numerous interviews, and executed multiple search warrants to secure the required evidence needed for prosecution. On Sept. 29, RCMP arrested a 38year-old male of Brandon, and charged him with 41 offences including multiple counts of Breaking and entering, Theft from mail over $5,000, Possession of property obtained by crime, Fraud under $5,000 and Theft of credit card. He was remanded into custody. On Oct. 8, RCMP arrested a 41year-old female of Boissevain, and charged her with 41 offences including multiple counts of Breaking and entering, Theft from mail
over $5,000, Possession of property obtained by crime, Fraud over $5,000 and Theft of credit card. She was remanded into custody.
“The investigators put a tremendous amount of work in their relentless pursuit of leads which led to the arrest of these two individuals responsible for the numerous thefts that affected multiple communities” said S/Sgt. Andrew Cowan, Detachment Commander for the Spruce Plains RCMP. “This outcome underscores our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our residents and their property. We will continue to work diligently to protect our community from such criminal activities.”
Spruce Plains RCMP con-
tinue to investigate.
On Oct. 8, Dauphin RCMP received a complaint that a vehicle was being chased by another vehicle where the driver was brandishing a knife.Officers were immediately dispatched to the area, and located the first vehicle on Mountain Avenue, where the male occupant advised that he was being chased by a truck and felt threatened as the suspect had a knife. The victim explained the incident began in a parking lot of a business after he was confronted by the suspect who had a knife. The victim fled, and the suspect continued to follow him at a high rate of speed. The victim and the suspect were not known to each other. The 22-yearold victim was able to give officers a description of the suspect vehicle, which was located shortly after at the intersection of Railway Avenue and Buchanon Avenue where a traffic stop was initiated.The male driver of the truck was given commands to exit the vehicle but would not comply with questions regarding other occupants as there was heavy tint on the windows. Two fe-
males then exited the vehicle after numerous commands to do so. All three were arrested and found to be intoxicated. A subsequent search of the vehicle was conducted and a small amount of cocaine, along with a knife, were both seized. A 29-year-old male, from Valley River, was remanded and charged with the following: Fail to comply with release order, Flight from police, Operation while impaired, Operation while over 80mg%, Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, Assault with a weapon, and Possession of weapon for a dangerous purpose. The females aged 28 and 37, both from Valley River First Nation, were later released without charge. Dauphin RCMP continue to investigate.
On Oct. 8, Portage la Prairie RCMP obtained an entry warrant to enter a residence in Portage la Prairie to arrest a male with two outstanding warrants. The Manitoba RCMP Emergency Response Team (ERT) attended as it was believed that the male was in possession of firearms. ERT offi-
cers entered the residence, after deploying tear gas, and located the male inside. He resisted arrest and, with the use of a Conducted Energy Weapon (Taser), was taken into custody without further incident. A 47-year-old male remains in custody after appearing in court on the strength of his two arrest warrants and on new charges of Resisting arrest and Disobeying court orders x 2. Later that day, Fisher Branch RCMP attempted to arrest a male for several outstanding warrants in Fisher River. The male barricaded
himself inside his residence and was believed to be in possession of a firearm.Police obtained an entry warrant where ERT officers entered the property in the early morning hours of Oct. 9.A 31-year-male was located and arrested without incident and remanded into custody on the strength of three outstanding arrest warrants and new charges of Uttering threats x 2 and Resisting arrest. Portage la Prairie RCMP and Fisher Branch RCMP continue to investigate.
Parkland Humane Society celebrates milestone
Dauphin: The Herald –What began with an advertisement in the local weekly paper is now celebrating 25 years of operations. The birth of the Parkland Humane Society (PHS) was celebrated in 2000 after the advertisement sparked interest to form a board of directors. Established as a non-profit, charitable organization, the goal of the society to encourage responsible pet ownership and to provide assistance and leadership in the humane treatment of all animals remains. Over time the PHS has helped hundreds if not thousands of animals simply by educating the public.
Boissevain: The Recorder – For a few months now construction has been ongoing on a rehabilitation project for the Turtlehead Creek Dam at the Deloraine Golf Course. When all said and done, the project will cost $16.8 million and will take the better part of three years to complete, according to a provincial spokesperson. The current spillway was built in the 1960s out of wood, and is in dire need of replacement. Even though improvements may cause disruptions, the Golf Club is pleased the work is being done and will adjust accordingly.
Neepawa: The Banner & Press – Not being successful in recruiting new board members and volunteers, the Beautiful Plains Museum in Neepawa, is at risk of closing. The museum was established in 1976 to collect, preserve and exhibit historical artifacts from Neepawa and the adjacent municipalities of Langford, Rosedale and Lansdowne. The struggle to find volunteers has resulted in the current board dissolving at the annual general meeting in November. Time will tell if the museum remains as a welcoming place to visitors from all over the world.
Virden: The EmpireAdvance – Principal Mark Keown had the pleasure of presenting Craig McIntosh with the Virden Collegiate Institute’s (WCI) Wall of Fame award at the Undergrad Awards ceremony. Graduating from VICI Class of 1981, McIntosh now lives in Winnipeg, where he has become highly successful in the plastics industry, and now yearly provides the Craig A. McIntosh Bursary of $80,000 to VCI graduates.
Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – With donations coming from as far away as Regina and Manitoba, the Rocanville Thrift Store is deemed like a Wal-Mart of the Saskatchewan community. Spokesperson, Linda Bock, said the volunteers operating
Paper Clips
News from MB/SK weeklies
the store opt to showcase all kinds of items year round. Most recently, a $10,000 donation was presented to the R.M. of Moosomin for the Moosomin Regional Airport, and an additional $10,000 to the Moosomin and District Healthcare Foundations for a CT Scanner in Moosomin.
Neepawa: The Banner & Press – Nearly 50 athletes and volunteers descended on Neepawa’s Hillcrest Pickleball Courts for the first “Kiwanis In Your Kitchen” pickleball tournament. Twenty teams from Birtle, Brandon, Minnedosa, Neepawa, and Gladstone competed. Top honours went to Brandon’s Neil Graham and Greg Little.
Virden: The EmpireAdvance – Through the efforts of Captain Kel Smith (ret.), an active community supporter in Virden, a George Baker painting of the historic SS Marquette that ran on the Assiniboine River between 1879 until 1882. The painting unveiled by Joanne Baker, the wife of the noted Virden artist, shows the ship had three decks and 12 staterooms. It was recorded that the trip up the river took nine days, but only six days coming back, with the help of the river’s current. The journey either way was always filled with twists and turns along with sand bars and deadhead logs. With steamship days fascinating Smith, the unveiling event at the Virden Legion Clubroom, brought out a good crowd. Smith gave a general history of the steam powered river boat that once sailed from the Hudson Bay Post at Upper Fort Garry to Fort Ellice, now known as St. Lazare, along the Assiniboine River.
Rivers: The Banner – A vibrant new mural has transformed the east side of the Westoba Credit Union on Main Street and 2nd Avenue in Rivers, capturing the rich history of the Sekine bicycle company and its lasting impact on the local community.
A CLEAN SWEEP
DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS
The dirt, grime and dried leaves lining streets within Wasagaming on Friday, Oct. 10 met the massive brooms of a street cleaner in preparation for the cold season known as winter. As the hustle and bustle of a summer turned into fall subsides, the activity within Riding Mountain National Park swiftly changes, with more park staff commonly found versus visitors. Autumn is the season that teaches us to let go, and sweater weather is better together.
Kroeker Journeyman Mason Tile Kitchens, Baths Waterproof Showers Steam Rooms
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All repairs, renovations, and new construction Cell: 204-232-9797
Specializing in Complete Cottage Lot Preparation
Trees have many other benefits, which we often do not think about. They contribute to the health of our planet and help to fight against climate change. Trees have the ability to capture and store carbon in their biomass – their roots, branches and even their stumps. Even more exciting is that the older a tree is, the better it can absorb carbon from the atmosphere. Research has shown that almost 70% of the carbon stored in trees is accumulated in the last half of their lives.
It is only a theory, but it is thought that older trees will store more carbon because they are at the top of the tree canopy and thus have consistent access to the sun. However, it is not just the height of a tree that is important, as trees will store more carbon in proportion to their size. This happens through the process of photosynthesis, where the trees will take the energy from the sun, and along with carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, will convert it into carbon based sugars that are then stored in the tree and allow the tree to do its daily work.
Older trees are more efficient in the storing of carbon, as they are less sensitive to changing weather conditions. When you look at the rings of life of a tree by taking a cross-section of the trunk, those rings tell a story. By studying the rings themselves, you are told a story by the tree. It tells you of years of plenty, those of famine and it shows that almost half of the carbon stored occurred in the last quarter to half of the life of the tree. We should consider the worth of old age trees in our battle against climate change.
The areas on earth not occupied by humans are very important. Not including the oceans, which are also an important carbon storage area, forests store around 90% of the biomass on the surface of the earth. In particular, tropical forests remove enormous amounts of carbon globally every single year. Plants have the ability to convert carbon dioxide from our atmosphere into a form, which makes it difficult to release back into the air. Trees, being the most visible part of our landscape, have an extremely high value.
Green spaces in our urban areas are not only aesthetically pleasing but they actually have the ability to cool off urban heat islands. This cooling effect is fact. It
Patricia Hanbidge GARDENING
is cooler to stand in the shade of a tree than in the shade of a building due to some of the processes that are occurring in the tree itself. The leaves will reflect light and heat back upwards while they are providing shade, but the process of transpiration will release water into the air, which actually lowers the ambient temperature.
There have been countless studies done which also reflect this great phenomenon. Urban forests do combat the urban heat wave. Even a reduction of ten percent in the canopy in an urban forest can increase the mean temperatures in the urban area by up to 10 degrees. The opposite is also true by increasing the urban green cover by 10 percent can reduce that temperature increase in the concrete jungle to only one degree.
We all know that plants have the ability to improve the quality of the air around us. They have the ability to extract a wide range of air pollutants that are emitted by traffic, industry, building materials and furniture. They also release oxygen into the air, which improves the quality of the air we breathe.
Our forested areas contribute to flood and water management. They facilitate the infiltration of rain water into the ground so developing green spaces is essential to improving our green infrastructure. Runoff is a concern as it has a huge impact on our water management practices. We should think about ensuring that our green space development is an integral part of the overall plan for water management. So as you can see, there are both obvious and less obvious reasons to value our green spaces and especially the trees!
Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; by email at growyourfuture@gmail. comor on facebook @orchidhort.
Friday, October 17, 2025
Breakthroughs in diagnosing Alzheimer’s
Q: I want to do everything I can to stay brain sharp my whole life, especially now that I know I have a genetic predisposition for Alzheimer’s disease. Any new good news about how to do that? – Donna R., Portland, OR
A: The recent breakthroughs in diagnosing, controlling and preventing Alzheimer’s disease are exciting. We’ve known that a diet that protects your cardiovascular system from accumulating plaque and elevated blood pressure also protects your brain. But we now know that daily dietary choices can counter the genetic predisposition for Alzheimer’s that affects folks who carry the APOE4 gene. (They’re three to 12 times more likely to develop AD).
A new study in the journal Nature Medicine reveals that adhering to a Mediterranean diet can do the trick –especially for folks with two copies of that gene, although it helps protect everyone’s cognition. That’s because the diet (plant-based with nuts, whole grains and extra-virgin olive oil) helps minimize metabolites associated with cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s. That may explain why, in identical twins with the APOE4 gene, one can develop AD while the other doesn’t – their choices, such as diet, exert a huge influence.
Another intriguing breakthrough: There’s a 3-minute
test called Fastball EEG that identifies emerging Mild Cognitive Impairment, a condition that can lead to Alzheimer’s. And with the development of innovative medications, donanemab and lecanemab, which are most effective when taken in the early stages of AD, and the amazing benefits of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange, as detailed in the AMBAR studies, this early warning is more valuable than ever.
Other ways to dodge AD include reducing your exposure to plastics (use glass food storage and reheating containers, never drink water from plastic bottles, and opt for filtered drinking water at home), and using air filters indoors if you live in an area with elevated air pollution.
Q: I keep hearing that pesticide residue on food is a lot riskier than we thought, but organic produce is expensive. Does anyone know which
fruits and vegetables have the least pesticides left in or on them? – Francis D., Rapid City, SD A: The Environmental Protection Agency, Consumer Reports and the Environmental Working Group (EWG) all evaluate pesticides in food –and come to slightly differing conclusions. The EPA has less-conservative standards than the other two -- but according to the Heartland Health and Research Alliance, even the EPA’s evaluation means there are hundreds of millions of potentially unsafe servings of pesticide-tainted food in the U.S. annually!
Using CR’s 2024 info and
EWG’s 2025 list of the Clean 15, you can determine which fruits and veggies you might buy that are not organic. The Clean 15 are pineapples, sweet corn, avocados, papayas, onions, sweet peas (frozen), asparagus, cabbage, watermelon, cauliflower, bananas, mangos, carrots, mushrooms and kiwi. FYI: Consumer Reports says broccoli and cantaloupe are also safe. However, CR also states that although very few nonorganic watermelons and green beans exceed safe pesticide levels – those that do are so dangerous that you can’t take the chance of getting them, and organics are recommended.
CALVIN VANDERSCHUIT 204.740.0081 calvin.vanderschuit@igpwm.ca
JAYDEN LAMB 204.523.0924 jayden.lamb@igpwm.ca
Whitney Sharkey, CPA, CA
Dauphin – 15-1st Avenue S.W. Phone: 204-638-3005 Brandon – C-1239 Princess Ave. Phone: 204-727-2468
Onanole – 126 Whirlpool Dr. Phone: 204-848-7413
Shoal Lake – 515 4th Ave. Phone: 204-759-2680
The EWG’s Dirty Dozen, which they recommend you only eat if they’re organic, include spinach, strawberries, kale-collard-and-mustard greens, grapes, cherries, peaches, nectarines, pears, apples, blackberries, blueberries, and potatoes. Unfortunately, washing doesn’t really remove pesticide residue – peeling off skin and rind is somewhat more effective.
I want to emphasize that eating a plant-based diet is one of the most important decisions you can make to achieve a younger, healthier ActualAge. And you might worry more about the ingredients in red and red proc-
essed meats that cause inflammation that clogs your arteries, dulls your cognition, and ages you prematurely. For great plant-based recipes, check out my “What to Eat When Cookbook.”
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.
MLA Nesbitt attends Legislators’ Forum
Riding Mountain MLA
Greg Nesbitt served as a legislative delegate at the 25th Anniversary International Legislators’ Forum (ILF), held Sept. 9-12, in Deadwood, SD. The forum brought together delegates from Manitoba, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota, continuing a tradition of crossborder collaboration that began in 2001.
“This milestone gathering provided an incredible opportunity to engage with colleagues across borders and political parties, and to discuss solutions to shared challenges,” said Nesbitt. “Given the current political and trade climate between Canada and the United States, the forum provided a chance
for grassroots legislators to learn from one another.”
Highlights of the 2025 anniversary Forum included:
•Sanford Underground Research Facility Tour – exploring world-class science beneath the Black Hills.
•Presentation on Agricultural Trade and Global Markets – by Joseph Janzen, agricultural economist at University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign, focusing on cross-border producers and international market opportunities and challenges.
•Keynote on Working Across Differences – by Tyler Tordson, former South Dakota state representative and Sisseton-Wahpeton tribal member, offering tools to bridge cultural, personal, and
political divides.
The anniversary Forum also featured showcases from each jurisdiction, highlighting the industry, tourism, cultures, and history of each state or province. Manitoba joins the Consensus Council in celebrating the 25-year legacy of the International Legislators’ Forum and looks forward to continued collaboration across the region. The 2026 Forum will be hosted in North Dakota.
The International Legislators’ Forum is convened by Consensus Council, a North Dakota-based nonprofit organization that facilitates conversations and builds agreements to empower people, transform communities, and advance the public good.
Classified Advertising Rates
Minimum 25 words $7.00, additional words
COMING EVENTS
Please join us for a Come and Go Baby Shower honoring Heather Bialas and Cam Robertson on their little bundle of joy to arrive in December. Shower will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., at Sandy Lake Drop-In Centre.
It’s hard to believe but not everyone has Facebook. This ad you’re reading costs $13.50 and reaches over 5 communities and 3,000 readers every week. And next week it will be half price. Planning an event? If you tell them they WILL come. Call Michelle at 204759-2644 ext. 1.
WANTED
Licensed gun dealer looking for firearms in all classes, and anything firearms related. Inheritance assistance provided. Can store handguns during the ban. Call or text Keith 204-471-9015.
Wanted old advertising: Dealership signs, service station, gas pumps, globes, oil cans, Red Indian, White Rose, Buffalo, Husky, Ford, GM, Dodge, Tire signs, Coke, Pepsi etc. Call 306-2215908.
ARTICLES FOR SALE
Did You Know? We print Personal and Business Cheques! 100 Personal Cheques $99 + taxes, 100 (manual) Business Cheques $91 + taxes, 250 (laser) Business Cheques $210 + taxes. Call Connie at 204-759-2644 Ext. 2 or email ctwprinting@mymts.net. Nesbitt Publishing, Shoal Lake.
Selling online? On-line ads not getting results? Let us help you book a blanket classified ad. You will be seen in the 31-Member Newspapers which are seen in over 368,000+ homes in Manitoba. Please call this newspaper 204759-2644 to book now or call MCNA at 204-947-1691 for more details or to book ads. MCNAManitoba Community Newspapers 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. 403-543-0927. www.firstand secondmortgages.ca
Urgent Press Releases. Have a newsworthy item to announce? An exciting change in operations? Though we cannot guarantee publication, MCNA will get the information into the right hands for only $35 plus GST. Call Manitoba Community Newspapers Association
204-947-1691 for more information, See www.mcna.com under the ‘Types of Advertising’ tab for more details.
Invest in advertising. The cost of advertising is small when you think of the number of people who will potentially attend your event simply because they saw your ad in the newspaper. If the cost of advertising is covered by just two or three admissions to your event,
any additional guests you welcome is money in your pocket. Advertising does not cost, it pays! Call Michelle at 204-759-2644 ext. 1.
Does Facebook support local? Has your organization ever called
Shoal Lake,
South Mountain Press
Riding Mountain MLA Greg Nesbitt,back row,fifth from left,attended the 25th anniversary InternationalLegislators’Forum in Deadwood,SD in September
South Mountain Press
The ant and the grasshopper
And now for something entirely different, in which I attempt to add some natural history facts to a parable involving insects…
“Smerfle smerfle smerf,” said the ant. “Pardon me?” asked the grasshopper. The ant, taking its jaws off the grasshopper’s leg replied, “I said, how do you feel about dancing and singing all summer long, especially knowing that you are going to be hungry during the long, cold winter?”
“You mean like in Aesop’s fable?” asked the grasshopper in return. “That’s mere human propaganda. First of all, I know I’m going to die once winter comes, regardless of whether I stored up food or not. Secondly, I was busy in my own way, not just singing and dancing all summer long. How about you, ant? Do you feel any regret about working all summer long, never getting to have any fun?”
The ant, still holding on tight to the grasshopper’s leg, replied “Well you know, what’s good for all my sisters and my queen is good for me. I am genetically selected to collect food and bring it back to the colony. It’s what I do. You could help me out in that endeavor, if you wanted to walk 5 meters to the south…”
“Look ant,” said the grasshopper, “I don’t have anything against you, but I’m not particularly interested in getting eaten alive at the moment. I still have several batches of eggs to lay over the next few weeks, or until the frost or a bird shuffles me off this mortal coil.”
“Hmm, are you suggesting that Aesop was lying about you being lazy and only having a good time?” asked the ant.
“Yup,” replied the grasshopper. “Pure slander. It takes a lot of effort and skill to grow from an itty-bitty egg to an adult grasshopper without being eaten along the way. And then I have to pump out a bunch of eggs in the hope that at least some of my babies make it to adulthood next year.”
“And, if you look closely at me, I’m not only beautiful I’m a marvel of insect engineering. My back legs aren’t just long and fancy, they’re mini catapults. See how my muscles act like coiled springs? When I fire these babies, I can leap more than 20 times my body length. And when I moult into an adult, I develop the ability to fly. I’m amazing.”
“Good point, you are a marvel. And tasty too.” said the ant. “Aesop got us ants wrong too. First of all, in most modern versions of his tale, its sounds like we live in some sort of insect type of nuclear human family. You
Ken Kingdon
MOMENTS IN RMNP
know, a mom, a dad, some baby ants. If he had really paid attention, he would have realised we’re basically a band of sisters plus our egg-laying queen, with a few males thrown in for good measure.”
“So, I don’t want to be rude, but I have a personal question” replied the grasshopper. “What’s it all for, from a worker ant’s perspective? I mean, I get to lay a bunch of eggs, pass along my genes, etc., etc., etc. You, on the other hand, just seem to work yourself to death.”
“Thank you for the compliment,” beamed the ant. “I hope to work until the day I
drop dead. But to answer your question, we do have some pretty important events in the life of our colony. In particular, we like to celebrate what I call ‘the big, bold, synchronous male and virgin queen send off, mating flight, new colony establishment, and pizza party.’”
“Whoa, that’s a mouthful… and, speaking of which, I would appreciate it if you didn’t chew on my femur.”
“Sorry about that. Ants will be ants, my clone sisters always say,” replied the ant. “The title is a perfect description of what happens in late summer. Miraculously, all the colonies of the same ant species will “reproduce” on exactly the same day, and often the same hour.”
“If you pay close attention, you may notice a huge number of winged ants flying up from all the nearby ant hills,” continued the ant. “These are the winged males and virgin queens. The males gather in a swarm of flying ants, and the new queens fly into these clouds, searching for a mate.”
“Once mating occurs, the newly mated queen will disperse to a new area, chew off
her wings, and dig a hole in the soil. The next spring, she will start laying eggs, creating a new colony. Assuming she survives. And I was just kidding about the pizza party.”
“Whoa, that sounds pretty risky. I can’t imagine that the success rate is great,” said the grasshopper.
“Yeah, it’s why each colony produces hundreds of queens, and also why we have them all fly out at the same time. It reduces the chances that some bird will eat them all.”
“I guess it’s just as risky as laying my eggs and hoping that they hatch.” Replied the grasshopper. “Life is pretty risky as an insect. It’s a miracle that any of us survive.”
“Speaking of which, do you mind if I finish the job of eating you?” asked the ant.
“Perhaps at a later date,” replied the grasshopper. “I’ve got too many things to do, eggs to lay, birds to avoid … you know how it is.” And with that, the grasshopper shook off the ant and fluttered away, leaving the ant to search for something else
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 Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
To obtain an application form or for more information, contact any SLEF Committee Member: Dennis Hodgson (204) 868-8335, denjan69@outlook.com Charlene Lewandoski (204) 585-2685, charlenelewandoski@gmail.com
Sylvia Budd (204) 724-4119, thebudds.sylvia@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.
AUCTION
Description
LOT 3 PLAN 735 NLTO
The tax sale is subject to the following terms and conditions with respect to each property:
• The purchaser of the property will be responsible for any unpaid municipal utilities and any property taxes not yet due.
• The Municipality may exercise its right to set a reserve bid in the amount of the arrears and costs.
• If the purchaser intends to bid by proxy, a letter of authorization form must be presented prior to the start of the auction.
• The Municipality makes no representations or warranties whatsoever concerning the properties being sold.
• The successful purchaser must, at the time of the sale, make payment in cash, certified cheque or bank draft to the Municipality of Harrison Park as follows: i) The full purchase price if it is $10,000 or less; OR ii) If the purchase price is greater than $10,000, the purchaser must provide a non-refundable deposit in the amount of $10,000 and the balance of the purchase price must be paid within 20 days of the sale; AND iii) A fee in the amount $500.85 ($477 + GST) for preparation of the transfer of title documents. The purchaser will be responsible for registering the transfer of title documents in the land titles office, including the registration costs.
• The risk for the property lies with the purchaser immediately following the auction.
• The purchaser is responsible for obtaining vacant possession.
• If the property is non-residential property, the purchaser must pay GST to the Municipality or, if a GST registrant, provide a GST Declaration.
Dated this 1st day of October, 2025.
Tamara Sellman Assistant Chief Administrative Officer Municipality of Harrison Park Phone: (204) 848-7614 Fax: (204) 848-2082
Sandy Lake Endowment Fund (SLEF)