Friday, February 14, 2020 | www.empireadvance.ca
PHOTO courtesy of Sus
an Ivey
From frontier newspaper to digital publication the Empire-Advance turns 135 PHOTO co
By Anne Davison In 1885 the Virden Advance broke ground for what would become the Virden Empire-Advance. It was the first newspaper in the area, published just 15 years after Manitoba’s entry into Confederation. In 2020, 135 years later, Virden’s Empire-Advance continues to supply news stands and subscriptions throughout Virden, surrounding areas and into distant places where citizens with Virden roots enjoy news from home. Empire-Advance publisher, Nancy Johnson understands the role the local paper plays. Johnson says, “It is a privilege and an honour to be a part of a newspaper that has served its community for 135 years. What a remarkable milestone! As we build on the foundations we’ve created over the last 135 years, continuing to deliver community news is the core of what we do.”
From broadsheet sized publications produced on printers “as big as a car,” said former printer Jim Hall, to offsite tabloid printing and now digitized data, printed in Estevan, Sask., the Empire-Advance continues to chronicle the accomplishments of business, the arts, sports and the human stories of the area. However, Virden interests are now being read online from anywhere in the world and Johnson celebrates that as well. “As we move into 2020, I want to remind the community the Virden EmpireAdvance is more than a newspaper.” She says, “We are reaching more readers than ever before, both in print and online, and bringing even greater advertising solutions to our businesses.” Born from The Advance (1885 by C.J. Atkinson) and The Empire (1905 by J.R. McLachlan), the Empire-Advance is the oldest business in Virden and the second oldest newspaper in
Manitoba. True to the newspaper’s name, the town of Virden did advance, establishing itself as a centre for southwestern Manitoba. What a time to be in newsprint! The Canadian Pacific Railway had just crossed Gopher Creek in the summer of 1883, establishing Virden as a CPR siding. In those days, a load of wood might be traded for a subscription to the newspaper that connected Virden to a world that would soon be plunged into the Great War. Over the years other newspapers - the Virden Chronicle (May, 1892 – June, 1894) and the Virden Banner (1895 - 1898) - came and went. By July 1905 another weekly, the Empire, was started by J. A. McLachlan. Within two years, in October of 1907, there was a marriage of the Advance and the Empire, creating the Virden Empire-Advance. Editor J.A. McLachlan set down an enduring
philosophy for the paper: “Advertisers will be given every facility to assist us in showing that Virden, as the commercial centre of Western Manitoba, is at least equal to any business centre in the West. “To the politicians we may say that the new paper will follow the policy of the Empire: to give credit to any party when it does what is in the interest of the people and to condemn that which we think is opposed to the best interests of the people of Virden and District. “Our first interest will be to give the local, district and general news … and to this end we solicit the help of all the people in every part of our large field.” Virden’s area-wide influence carried the news of Arrow River, Beulah, Pipestone, Melita, Elkhorn, Miniota, Two Creeks, Montgomery, Elm Valley, Lenore, Kenton, Oak Lake, and Kola. No one could have predicted that Virden would
urtesy of the
become part of the greater Canadian economy as the Oil Capital of Manitoba. The Empire-Advance catalogued the start of this journey, publishing “Oil Found West of Town” (Jan. 31, 1951). In 1965, the Elkhorn Mercury, for financial reasons, amalgamated with the Empire-Advance. Years later, another Virden paper started up, the Southwest Gazette (1996-99). About that time, two generations of McLachlan ownership ended and the Empire-Advance was purchased by two publishers: Shoal Lake’s Greg Nesbitt and Killarney’s Garry Struth, in partnership with Grant and Marlain Shoemaker (who had started the Gazette). Marlain was the managing editor and in 2002, Struth and Nesbitt sold their shares to the Shoemakers. Just a few years later the Shoemaker family sold the Empire-Advance to publishing company, Glacier Media. Long-time employee Gail
Virden Pio neer Hom e Museum
Longmuir was promoted to managing editor until she left the paper in 2010. Sales representative Dianne Hanson was promoted to general manager, while continuing as sales manager. The fortunes of the paper followed the ups and downs of the local economy. During the oil boom of 2010 – 2014, the Empire-Advance often ran two sections with record page counts. In 2013, Hanson won the President’s Club award from Glacier Media. Hanson retired in 2014. Several other managers took the reins for a time until, in 2017, Vice President of Manitoba Operations for Glacier Media, Nancy Johnson became publisher of the Empire-Advance and six other Manitoba publications. Johnson sums up the paper’s 135-year history, “Virden’s history belongs to us all and we couldn’t be more proud to be the community’s voice, or more grateful.”
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October 8, 1914
Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
july 29, 1898
Virden’s first newspaper, the Virden Advance, was founded in 1885 by C.J. Atkinson; J.A. McLachlan and C.S. McClelland published the first edition of the Virden Empire on July, 13, 1905. The articles contributed between the years of 1898 to 1907 are from both publications until the Empire and the Advance amalgamated in 1907, publishing the first edition on October 3. Time fades memories and old newspapers. We hope you forgive the imperfections and enjoy reading this historical glimpse into Virden’s history. july 29, 1898
10-TIME WINNER OF THE MRCA RODEO OF THE YEAR AWARD
THANK YOU
to all our sponsors, volunteers and fans for your continued support!
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
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july 29, 1898
January 4, 1906
August 30, 1906
August 30, 1906
CELEBRATING
37IN YEARS BUSINESS!
MEAT SERVICES
Congratulations
Empire-Advance on 135 years!
WHEAT: AAC Brandon, AAC Viewfield, AAC Alida BARLEY: Copeland, Austenson, Maverick
Monday to Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
OATS: Leggett, Summit, Haymaker Forage seed, Millet, other varieties ask
204.662.4484 | CROMER, MANITOBA | CUSTOM CLEANING
We Prepare Fresh Meat for any Occasion!
Jct. #83 and Hwy #1, Virden
204-748-1889
Congratulations TO THE VIRDEN EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON
TO THE EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON THEIR
FROM THE VIRDEN AREA FOUNDATION INC VAF@RFNOW.COM | 204.748.3419
135 years FROM THE ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION BR. NO. 8
LADIES AUXILIARY
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
June 7, 1906
August 30, 1906
September 13, 1906
February 8, 1906
Firearms optics ammo accessories archery bushcraft apparel - YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR EVERYTHING FIREARMS AND ARCHERY
and more!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE EMPIRE ADVANCE ON
CELEBRATING135 YEARS!
JUNE 27 & 28
January 10, 1907
Congratulations TO THE EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON
135 YEARS! FROM ALL OF US AT
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
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September 20, 1906
March 1, 1906
March 15, 1906
May 20, 1909
Proud to be serving Southwest Manitoba for
39 YEARS
OPENING DAYTH
425 SIXTH AVENUE SOUTH, VIRDEN • 204-748-3014 MONDAY - THURSDAY 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
FRIDAY, MARCH 13
HARD & SOFT ICE CREAM BURGERS • SIDES • SHAKES
OPEN 7 DAYS PER WEEK MID-MARCH THROUGH MID-SEPTEMBER
272 KING ST, VIRDEN | 204.748.2557
Proud to be costuming Southwest Manitoba for
20+ YEARS 484 SIXTH AVENUE SOUTH, VIRDEN • 204-748-6108 MONDAYS, 9:00 AM-NOON & THURSDAYS, 3:00-6:00 PM
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
October 4, 1906
March 14, 1907
February 23, 1911
March 27, 1913
Thank you
to the community & all the surrounding oil companies for past & future business
VIRDEN MB • 204-851-1099 • SILVERLINE08@LIVE.CA
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
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January 12, 1911
August 6, 1914
January 5, 1911
Congratulations on
135 years!
Serving Elkhorn & Area for more than 70 years!
139 Richhill Ave West, Elkhorn MB 204-845-2405 | tuttcons@mymts.net
SERVING VIRDEN & AREA SINCE 1937
178 NELSON STREET WEST, VIRDEN | 204.748.2779
Congratulations
Empire-Advance on 135 years!
Congratulations Empire-Advance on your
135th Birthday
VIRDEN CAB
kw665@icloud.com • 204-908-2920
Pickup & Delivery Options Available
From all of us at the
TA X I Rick Walker - Owner/Operator
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
January 28, 1915
March 14, 1916 May 30, 1915
July 13, 1911
November 12, 1918
CONGRATS ON 135 YEARS FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT THE
Virden Lions Club
Congratulations
Empire-Advance on 135 years!
A proud part of the Virden Community for more than 63 years! LIONS CAMPGROUND | HALL RENTAL | COMMUNITY SERVICES
Locally owned and operated
337 King Street East, Virden
204-748-2894
STRATHCLAIR DRAMA CLUB’S 38th Annual Production of Mary Poppins
Production runs April 20-25, 2020, at The Bend Theater.
TICKETS ON SALE MARCH 28TH. Watch for coming details.
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
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August 24, 1911
September 3, 1914 June 2, 1911
CONGRATULATIONS!
On 135 Years of Business & Service to the Virden Area
CONGRATULATIONS
TO THE VIRDEN EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON THEIR
135TH ANNIVERSARY MILESTONE
The most important part of any workday is coming home safe to the ones you love.
From your friends at Leech Printing CREATE
CONNECT
PROMOTE
601 Braecrest Drive | Brandon, MB | R7C 1B1 Phone 204.728.3037 | Fax 204.727.3338 Toll-Free 1.888.756.4433 | info@leechprint.com
printing and beyond
www.tundraoilandgas.com
CONGRATULATIONS ON 135 YEARS! FROM ALL OF US AT
SERVING VIRDEN & AREA FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS! Mon & Fri in Reston | Tues & Thurs in Melita
PH: 204-748-2628
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Commemorative Edition
July 16, 1921
May 17, 1921
Our Story G. R. Carscadden Funeral Chapels Ltd. was founded in 1936 in Reston, Manitoba by G. Roy Carscadden. In the spring of 1936, Roy also opened funeral homes in the Saskatchewan communities of Wapella and Moosomin as well as in Virden, Man. Roy passed away in May of 1959. His wife, Helen (nee Gatey), continued to operate the business with her stepson, Peter Carscadden and her brother, Gerry Gatey. For many years Gerry Gatey, with the assistance of his wife Jean, managed the Virden office while Helen Carscadden managed the Moosomin office. Upon Gerry and Jean’s retirement in 1997, their son, Douglas, took over management of the Virden office becoming a partner with his father and aunt in 2000. In June of 2019 Todd Lumbard and Jeff Christiansen of Speers Funeral and Cremation Services Ltd. in Regina, Sask., together with their partners at Cropo Funeral Chapel in Winnipeg, Man. and Brockie Donovan Funeral Chapel and Rosewood Memorial Gardens and Crematorium in Brandon, Man., purchased G. R. Carscadden Funeral Chapels. We are proud to maintain the tradition of caring, compassionate and professional service established by this long-standing locally owned business. We extend our congratulations to the Empire-Advance on this significant anniversary and we thank you for the exceptional service you provide to keep us informed, invested and engaged in our community.
VIRDEN LOCATION 383 Wellington Street West P. O. Box 1780, Virden, MB R0M 2C0 204-748-1876 • 1-204-748-3803 grcarscadden@rfnow.com
February 14, 2020
May 31, 1921
June 20, 1922
G.R. Carscadden Funeral Chapel
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
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May 31, 1921
February 20, 1923
April 24, 1923
June 20, 1922
September 26, 1922
Celebrating
10 YEARS IN BUSINESS!
FOR
AUTOBODY & GLASS REPAIR R U O Y NE A LL
204-748-6262
710 Seventh Avenue North, Virden, MB
EDS
Congratulations Virden Empire-Advance on
135 YEARS
of serving our community
SERVING VIRDEN & AREA SINCE 1965! LOCATED NORTH ON COMMONWEALTH DRIVE (NEXT TO THE VIRDEN AIRPORT)
204˨748˨2261
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
May 29, 1923
December 12, 1922
June 28, 1927
congratulations ON 135 YEARS
from
CONGRATULATIONS
135 YEARS
TO THE EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON OF SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY
St. Mary’s Anglican Church Proudly a part of Virden since 1882
SERVING ALL YOUR CANADIAN & US TRUCKING NEEDS. HAULING HOPPER BOTTOMS FOR OVER 14 YEARS!
Rick & Brenda Park B: (701) 340-2517 • H: (204) 748-2303 F: (204) 748-1396
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
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June 19, 1923
December 8, 1925
October 19, 1926
May 22, 1928
February 3, 1920
Congratulations on
135YEARS
of service to our community UPCOMING SALES
Feb 17: Closed/Louis Riel Day • Feb 19: Reg Feeder Sale • Feb 21: Bred Cow Sale Feb 26: Presort Feeder Sale • Mar 4: Presort Feeder Sale • Mar 6: Bred Cow Sale Butcher Sales Every Monday VIRDEN,MB
P: 204-748-2809 • 1-888-784-9882 F: 204-748-3478 • hls.virden@hls.ca
Congrats 135 YEARS
ON OF SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY
19th Century Charm - 21st Century Convenience For more information (204) 748-1231 Email: imunchinsky@yahoo.ca
Congratulations
Empire-Advance on
135!
from all of us at VIRDEN ALLIANCE CHURCH
Proud to be serving Virden & Area since 1979!
375 Frame St E, Virden, MB
204.748.2621
Sunday Service 11:00 am
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July 12, 1930
Commemorative Edition
September 30, 1930
February 14, 2020
May 15, 1936
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
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July 29, 1936
October 28, 1931
August 10, 1932
AWESOME job on the last 135
May 24, 1939
CONGRATS TO THE EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON
Great luck on the next 135 years
Congratulations to the Empire-Advance on 135
YEARS
135 YEARS
OF SERVICE! 204.748.1788 171 Seventh Ave N, Virden, Manitoba
Congratulations
Empire-Advance!
Serving Oak Lake, Virden & Area for 25 years! 204-851-0286
SERVING VIRDEN & AREA SINCE 2010
P: 204-855-2450 • C: 204-724-3952 F: 204-855-2640
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
January 29, 1936
September 11, 1940
Mr. and Mrs. Sam Gallant of Virden have five sons on active service, another son who was discharged for medical reasons, a seventh son in the reserve army, and two nephews (sons of Mr. nd Mrs. John Gallent of Virden) also serving. Four of the boys, Francis, Omer, Ern and Eli, enlisted with the Lord Strathcona Horse in 1940 and went overseas with the 2nd Armored Regiment, 5th Division, in 1941. Omer, whose wife lives in Ontario, is now an instructor in radio mechanics. Ernest is also married and his wife and four children reside at Pilot Mound, Man. Also at Pilot Mound is Eli’s wife, and their two children. Wilfred enlisted with the R.C.O.C. in 1941, and is now at the Kingston, Ont. training center; his wife is in Saskatoon at present. Hubert, who also enlisted in 1940, with the Lake Superior Regiment, but was discharged for medical reasons in 1941; he is now on the staff at No. 19 E.F.T.S. Virden. Lawrence, who is under military age, is taking pre-enlistment training with the 12th Manitoba Dragoons here. Alfred and Arphis, sons of Mr. and Mrs. John Gallant, are at Fort William and Camp Borden, Ont.
May 31, 1939
September 9, 1936
May 6, 1942
Congratulations ON 135 YEARS
Our municipality and previously the RM of Wallace, Village of Elkhorn and the RM of Woodworth have been working with you since Day 1! Looking forward to many more.
May 10, 1944
sensus Chartered Professional Accountants Ltd.
We provide the following services: Personal tax planning & preparation Bookkeeping services Farm and business succession planning Payroll services Corporate tax preparation and financial statements Incorporating your farm or business Estate tax planning Auditing of public sector boards Auditing of not-of-profit organizations Municipal Auditing
154023 PR 257, Virden | 220 Cornwall Street, Kenton 12 Richhill Avenue, Elkhorn
SENSUS OFFICES LOCATED IN: Virden, Brandon, Russell, Shoal Lake, MB & Yorkton, SK Virden: 204-748-3135 | Brandon: 204-727-5577 www.sensuscpa.ca
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
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November 6, 1940
April 23, 1941
Congratulations Congratulations to the
to the VIRDEN
EMPIRE-ADVANCE on their
135 Anniversary! th
EMPIRE�ADVANCE
as you celebrate 135 years of providing local news coverage and advertising opportunities to residents of Virden and area
Greg N E SBITT
M L A for R id ing M ountain 204.759.3313
Toll Free 844.877.7767
gregnesbittmla@mymts.net #7 � 515 � 4th Ave., Shoal Lake, MB
BRANCH NO. 8 OF THE
ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Wishes all our neighbours and friends at the
Virden Empire-Advance a very Virden Legion: Open Monday to Saturday | Door Opens at 4:00pm An Active Community Member Serving Virden + District! LEST WE FORGET
PROUD TO BE A PART OF THE VIRDEN COMMUNITY FOR OVER
95 YEARS!
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
July 24, 1946
January 26, 1944
August 7, 1940
June 2, 1948
February 11, 1942
September 19, 1945
Congratulations ON
135 YEARS!
CONGRATULATIONS on your 135 YEARS of serving
VIRDEN & SURROUNDING AREAS
R.T. JEBB ELECTRIC
380 FRONTAGE RD W, VIRDEN
FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 204-707-6020
MANITOBA'S OILFIELD ELECTRIC AND AUTOMATION COMPANY 61 Cavendish St S, Elkhorn | (204) 845.2315 | jebbelec@mymts.net
Virden Pioneer Home Museum Stop by this summer and take a look back into Virden’s History!
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS! 390 KING STREET WEST, VIRDEN | (204) 748-1659
Congratulations
on Serving Your Community for 135 Years! RICK DILLABOUGH
BRANDON WHEAT KINGS HOCKEY CLUB
DIRETOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND SPONSORSHIP
#2-1175-18TH STREET/BRANDON, MB R7A 7C5 BUS: 204-726-3535/DIRECT: 204-726-3536 RES: 204-726-9274/CELL: 204-724-7485/TWITTER: @bdnwheatkings EMAIL: rickdillabough@wheatkings.com/www.wheatkings.com
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
January 25, 1950
June 28, 1950
CONGRATULATIONS ON
135 YEARS!
Congratulations
135 YEARS!
on from all of us at McNeill Harasymchuk McConnell
243 Raglan St. West Box 520 • Virden, MB • R0M 2C0
Inspire her to change her world. When you volunteer with Girl Guides\RX·UHWHDFKLQJ JLUOVWKDWWKHUHDUHQROLPLWV
9ROXQWHHUZLWKXV GirlGuides.ca
Phone 204-748-1220 Fax 204-748-3007
For information on local Girl Guides please call 204.727.4187 / 204.686.2336
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
-
-
Message from the Prime Minister of Canada
It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the Virden Empire-Advance on the occasion of their 135th anniversary. Founded in 1885, the Virden Empire-Advance has been the voice of, and for the people of Virden and the many surrounding communities. The paper’s long history stretches back to the time of Virden’s brick and flour industry, and now, 135 years later, it continues to deliver high quality content to its readership. Community newspapers play a vital role in our democracy and communities, and it is great to see them continue to thrive. I would like to thank the many staff and loyal readers over the years for making this achievement possible. I wish you all the best as you mark this significant milestone!
Ottawa 2020
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
21 Seventh Avenue South from Wellington
The Empire-Advance has brought us together and has helped shape who we are today. They've done thishas by brought reportingusand sharing thehas information we all The Empire-Advance together and helped shape whoneed we to are know about what is happening around us.and The Empire-Advance's 135th today. They've done this by reporting sharing the information we all need to anniversary also gives us an opportunity on the role of local135th newspapers know about what is happening around to us.reflect The Empire-Advance's and to acknowledge their importance in our community. anniversary also gives us an opportunity to reflect on the role of local newspapers
and to acknowledge their importance in our community. Without local newspapers, who would be there to share our stories or record our history? From disseminating the on goings of our three levels of government to Without local newspapers, who would be there to share our stories or record our announcing the passing or birth of a local resident, the Virden Empire-Advance has history? From disseminating the on goings of our three levels of government to been there to do just that throughout the years. announcing the passing or birth of a local resident, the Virden Empire-Advance has been there to do just that throughout the years. As a democracy, we rely on our local newspaper to keep a watchful eye on those who make decisions and to do the in-depth reporting on current issues. It provides As a democracy, we rely on our local newspaper to keep a watchful eye on those a place where we can debate and share ideas. From the most controversial topics who make decisions and to do the in-depth reporting on current issues. It provides to the feelgood stories, the reporters of the day have been there to record it all. a place where we can debate and share ideas. From the most controversial topics to the feelgood stories, the reporters of the day have been there to record it all. The Empire-Advance has given a voice to those who might have otherwise been silent or ignored. It has been there to bring us together in good times and in bad. The Empire-Advance has given a voice to those who might have otherwise been To document and capture those moments in time, so that the next generation silent or ignored. It has been there to bring us together in good times and in bad. knows who we were. To document and capture those moments in time, so that the next generation knows who we were. A hearty congratulations to the past and present staff and to the Empire-Advance for being the heartbeat of the community. Happy Anniversary! A hearty congratulations to the past and present staff and to the Empire-Advance for being the heartbeat of the community. Happy Anniversary! Larry Maguire, MP Brandon-Souris Larry Maguire, MP Brandon-Souris
Seventh Avenue
Alexandra Hotel & Nelson Street
Fairgrounds
Nelson Street & Seventh Avenue PHOTOS/ Susan Ivey
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
October 3, 1951
The loss in livestock in the Southern Manitoba floods has been staggering. Thousands have had to be left to their fate in the rising water, while some farmers stayed long enough to shoot their herds to save them from drowning. Here a few more fortunate beast–half a dozen Holstein cows and a horse–are rescued by barge from a swamped farm near La Salle. May 31, 1950
June 8, 1955
June 25, 1952
15 GOODRIDGE ROAD, VIRDEN
204.748.2466 FOUNTAINTIRE.COM
Come and see Henry, Brad, Mandy & staff for all your tire and mechanical needs!
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
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February 2, 1956
September 17, 1952
February 1, 1950
November 9, 1955
Congratulations TO THE
EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON THEIR
135
TH
YEAR!
FROM ALL OF US AT
Congrats on reaching
135 YEARS! FROM ALL OF US AT
Serving Southwestern Manitoba & Southeastern Saskatchewan for over
35 years
FORMERLY KEYSTONE OILFIELD LTD
SERVING VIRDEN & AREA SINCE 1978
204-748-1170
240 COMMONWEALTH DRIVE, VIRDEN BERT - 204.748.7072 | ADAM - 204.851.2118
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
August 23, 1961
April 11, 1962
April 23, 1968 June 17, 1964
PROUDLY PROVIDING THE OILFIELD INDUSTRY WITH
Congratulations
Empire-Advance on reaching a milestone!
VACUUM TRUCK SERVICES • STEAMING/MOBILE WASH SEPTIC SERVICE • PORTABLE WASHROOM RENTALS OILFIELD HAULING • 24 HOUR ON CALL SERVICE
KEVIN MCKINNON OWNER / MANAGER • crossfireoilfield@gmail.com
CRAIG RUSSELL (204) 851-0461 craig.russell@century21.ca | century21.ca/craig.russell
204.851.0994 • VIRDEN, MB Advance Congrats to the Empire-
LEEANNA RUSSELL (204) 748-7788 leeanna.russell@century21.ca | century21.ca/leeanna.russell
VIEW ALL OUR LISTINGS ONLINE
WWW.WESTMANREALTY.C21.CA
on 135!
A HUGE THANK YOU TO PIXIE PERFECT DESIGN CO FOR THE GREAT WORK ON OUR NEW LOGO
261 SEVE SEVENTH AVENUE SOUTH, VIRDEN
W W W. G C F LW E S T M A N . C O M GOLF CLUBS FOR LESS ON FACEBOOK
2 0 4 - 7 6 1 - 1 7 9 9 SERVING SINCE 2016
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
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April 22, 1964
March 5, 1969
July 25, 1962
Congratulations EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON 135 YEARS
CELEBRATING
59 YEARS
IN BUSINESS! FAMILY OWNED FOR 48 YEARS!
236 Wellington St W, Virden
204.748.2440
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
August 16, 1961
August 7, 1968
August 7, 1963
PROUDLY SERVING VIRDEN & AREA FOR MORE THAN
40 YEARS!
Virden Recreation & Watersports roots became firmly planted more than 55 years ago in a small garage business when Mr. Emil Hoffman, the owner of McGuffins Garage, began selling Ski-Doo snowmobiles. In the late ‘60s, Hoffman's Marina as it was then know, moved to its former location at 421 King Street East. In 1973, the business was sold to Bruce Biesenthal and the name was changed to Bruce's Four Seasons. Travel trailers, fifth wheels, and truck campers were added to the line-up. In 1983, Peter Dillon and Don Gray purchased the business and in 1992 restructured to specialize in travel trailers and fifth wheels condensing their operation selling only RVs. The original King Street location was sold to Norman Murray with the Honda, Marine and Ski-Doo lines. Norman, a certified master technician who had been the head marine mechanic at Four Seasons since 1979, took helm of a ship consisting of seven employees and continued to provide top line quality customer service and unbeatable product lines that customers had come to know and respect. In 2008 Virden Recreation & Watersports purchased property at 210 Frontage Road East and a new facility was started in early spring of 2013 and completed July 2014. Today Virden Recreation & Watersports team consists of Senior Partner & General Manager Norman Murray; Junior Partner & Technician Brent Murray; Junior Partner & Service Manager Shane Murray; and Partner & Parts Manager Erik Elliott. The remainder of the team includes two technicians, parts advisor, two business managers, an administrative support staff as well as a unit detail manager and assistant.
At Virden Recreation & Watersports we truly believe that
"We take your fun seriously" 210 FRONTAGE RD E, VIRDEN | 204-748-2060 | TOLL-FREE: 1-888-877-7623 | VIRDENREC.COM
February 14, 2020
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June 19, 1963
March 7, 1962
February 15, 1967
Congratulations
on 135
FROM US AT OVERLAND
CONGRATULATIONS VIRDEN EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON YOUR
135TH ANNIVERSARY FROM ALL OF US AT
We are proud to be the only locally owned waste and recycling service in Virden & Area!
620 RICHMOND AVE E, 2ND FLOOR, BRANDON, MB
204-727-0733 | OVERLANDWASTE@YAHOO.CA
Trust us to worry about instrumentation & controls so you don’t have to! 124 ANSON STREET, VIRDEN, MB • 204-748-3704
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
May 1, 1974
June 10, 1970
June 10, 1970
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations 135 YEARS OF SERVICE to the Empire-Advance on
To T o tthe he
Empire-Advance on
135 years from your slightly younger friends at
(Formerly Higginbotham's Drug Store - Founded 1886)
333 SEVENTH AVENUE SOUTH, VIRDEN | 204-748-1666
Hargrave, MB
February 14, 2020
August 11, 1971
Commemorative Edition
March 2, 1977
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january 3, 1979
CONGRATULATIONS
TO THE EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON YOUR
Congratulations to the Empire-Advance on 135 years!
135TH ANNIVERSARY
From the Board of Directors, employees, and residents of
ACL VIRDEN & NEW TO YOU STORE PROUDLY SERVING VIRDEN & AREA FOR OVER
35 YEARS!
Congratulations on 135 years
216 Bridge St, Virden, MB 204.748.1444
Congratulations
to the Virden Empire-Advance on
135 years!
WWW.JAYSINN.CA | TOLL FREE: 1-888-720-7225
FROM THE STAFF, BOARD & LEARNERS AT A.P.P.L.E.
ASSOCIATION OF PARENTS & PROFESSIONALS FOR LITERACY EDUCATION Serving Virden & Community's Adult Educational needs since 1990 204-748-2384
1,2 Bedroom Suites Executive Suites With Jacuzzi & Fireplace
Free Continental Breakfast Fitness Center & Conference Room
Trans-Canada Highway West, Virden • 204-748-2223 reservations@jaysinn.ca
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
August 26, 1970
May 19, 1976
January 22, 1975
602 Richhill Ave. Elkhorn, MB
Congratulations on 135 years! Ten Plus years of Residential and Commercial experience Journeyman Electrician Since 2010
No Job Too Small! Serving Virden & Surrounding Area
204-512-1974 • HEAMANELECTRIC@HOTMAIL.COM
Bick’s Auto Inc. 204-845-1003
Paul Bickerton - Licensed Mechanic 4-Wheel Alignment • Automotive Accessories & Custom Wheels Hundreds of Tires In-Stock (Automotive, Med, Truck & Ag) Engines to Transmissions • Major Electrical Diagnostic & Scanning FOR ALL YOU AUTOMOTIVE NEEDS, WE DO IT ALL!
The Brandon Community Orchestra ((BCO)) is in our 34th year of Orchestral playing. Practices begin at 9:45 am most Saturdays during our playing season, at the School of Music, Brandon University, for any aspiring or accomplished orchestral musicians interested in joining. We play a wide variety of music including Jazz and Classical music. Our end of the year concert will be at 7:00 pm, Sunday, the 3rd of May, 2020 at Central United Church, Brandon, MB. Tickets in advance from any BCO member are $9 and $10, at the door. As a Registered Charity, we always welcome and appreciate donations and/or sponsorships.
For more information or to contact us email us at: Contact@brandoncommunityorchestra.com Mailing address: Box 25, School of Music, Brandon University 270 - 18th Street, Brandon, MB R7A 6A9
TO YOU FOLKS AT THE
VIRDEN EMPIRE-ADVANCE
FREEHAND MEDIA CONSULTANT SERVICE OF MANITOBA BA KELVON SMITH, VIRDEN, MANITOBA
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
31
April 15, 1981
July 25, 1984
July 24, 1985
December 9, 1981
CONGRATULATIONS
to the Empire-Advance for 135 years of keeping your readers informed about local events and happenings in the area
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE VIRDEN EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON
135 YEARS!
Congratulations Empire-Advance on 135 years!
Campbell FUNERAL HOME
Caskets, Urns, Keepsake Urns • Cremation services • Service personalization
PR 259 Virden, MB P: 204.748.3019 C: 204.748.7992
Serving Virden & Area for more than 25 years
Licensed Video Tributes • Monuments & Memorials • Flower & Gift Shop On-Site & More
24 2ND ST SE, HAMIOTA, MB | 204-764-2744 | CAMPBELLFUNERALHOME.CA
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Commemorative Edition
july 27, 1983
February 14, 2020
September 28, 1988
March 9, 1983
October 30, 1985
DEALER FOR MERIDIAN AND CONVEY-ALL
YOU WON’T BELIEVE THE PRICE ON OUR GM 5300
FARMERS SUPPLYING FARMERS
PEAS
CHROME • MEADOW AMARILLO
OATS
ARBORG • SUMMIT DANCER
BARLEY
COPELAND • METCALFE AUSTENSON
WHEAT
VIEWFIELD • BRANDON LANDMARK
OTHER
BRAVO FLAX DANKO RYE
HAMIOTA, MB | 204.764.2450 | WWW.KNIGHTSEEDS.COM
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
33
Royal Purple VIRDEN
Chartered in 1958 we have been serving the community for 62 years.
Our membership sits at 30 and we are always open to new members. •
We raise our funds by selling 50/50 tickets for 2 months at Virden Oil Capitals games; cater to a supper once a month at Evergreen Place; sell Grey Cup tickets and Mom’s Pantry products.
•
We are now sponsors of the Manitoba Brain Injury Association through our Manitoba Provincial Association and had a table at a Oil Capitals game to make the public aware of brain injury. We sponsor a poster contest to all the schools in Fort La Bosse School Division with the theme being Healthy Choices Preventing Brain Injury and cash prizes are given after judging.
•
Donations are made to children where there has been a house fire; children who need assistance with medical travel, or medical supplies and equipment, and have assisted with events for seniors for many years.
•
We Deliver Meals on Wheels for 1 month of the year.
•
In 2017 we donated $5,000 towards the new kitchen at Princess Lodge.
•
Each year we sponsor Live Different at either the Virden Collegiate or Virden Junior High and invite the other schools in Fort La Bosse School Division to attend.
•
We have planted & cared for the flower bed at the entrance to the Virden District Hospital for several years.
YEARLY DONATIONS ARE MADE TO: • Virden Health Auxiliary • Virden Auditorium • Arts Mosaic • Virden Music & Arts Festival • Costume Closet • Virden & Area Community Day Care • Funshine Early Learning • Cancer Care (Brandon) • Virden Pioneer Home Museum • Youth for Christ • Border Regional Library (Virden) • S.A.I.L. • Canada Day Celebrations • ACL • Kidsport • VCI Scholarship Fund • VJH Scholarship • Legion camp participants from VJH
Our Congratulations go out to the Empire-Advance on their 135th Anniversary.
October 5, 1983
ONLYNS I 30 FM ROM N!
VIRDE
Come and see what the RM of Pipestone has to offer!
Spray Park & Waterslide • Lake & Beach Area 9-Hole Golf Course • Full-Service Campground Plus Much More!
RMOFPIPESTONE.COM
Congratulations on your 135th! -From all of us at Sunrise
sunrisecu.mb.ca
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
April 4, 1990
June 20, 1990
April 22, 1992
INTRODUCING the NEW
“ASSINIBOINE WEST WATERSHED DISTRICT” New Name Same Business NEW PROGRAMS
PROJECTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
• On farm water management, • Enhanced more profitable Agricultural production • Increasing the natural biodiversity & wildlife habitat of the landscape The launch of this program will help ensure that farmers and ranchers are recognized and rewarded for the environmental stewardship they undertake across Manitoba. Together we can build a resilient and sustainable agricultural system that we can all be proud of!
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL WATERSHED DISTRICT OFFICE ADAM KERKOWICH
JEFF HOWARD
COLLEEN CUVELIER
Regional Manager, Inglis
Regional Manager, Miniota
Regional Manager, Oak River
204-564-2388
204-567-3554
204-566-2292
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
35
May 26, 1993
June 18, 1996
August 15, 1995 November 8, 1994
March 12, 1996
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON
135 YEARS OF SERVICE
Congratulations on 135 years!
A great accomplishment!
D.B. HIGGINBOTHAM ELECTRIC LTD. (A.K.A. HIGG ELECTRIC) HAS BEEN SERVING VIRDEN, MANITOBA, AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS
SINCE 1978 Carnduff, Saskatchewan
306-482-3244
HOW TO CONTACT US: 270 Commonwealth Drive, Box 1821, Virden, Manitoba R0M 2C0 Phone: 204.748.1753 | Email: info@higgelec.com VISIT US ONLINE: HIGGELEC.COM
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
Co-op $1.7 million expenasion to begin immediately
May 20, 2000
January 12, 2007
FOR ALL YOUR WELDING & MACHINING NEEDS
SINCE 1956!
371 KING STREET, VIRDEN (204) 748-3833
Celebrating
30 years
DERRICK THEATRE
283 NELSON ST W | 204.748.1456 | DERRICKTHEATRE.COM
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
July 21, 2001
37
October 5, 2002 September 25, 2004
WAWOTA, SK
FURNITURE • DESIGN • BOUTIQUE
CONGRATS EMPIRE-ADVANCE ON 135 YEARS
204.748.2883
DIAMONDS | GIFTWARE | GOLD
383 SEVENTH AVE S, VIRDEN
SERVING VIRDEN & AREA SINCE 1973
Congratulations TO THE
EMPIREADVANCE
ON 135 YEARS FROM ALL OF US AT
SACRED HEART PARISH 471 Queen Street West, Virden, MB 204.748.1371 Reverend Leo Fernandes
(306) 739-2722
Custom Order Sale
10
%
OFF
Custom Ordered Furniture for the month of February
Check out frontporch-interiors.com Facebook or Instagram for more details
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Commemorative Edition
February 14, 2020
June 1, 2002
Congratulations on
Celebrating 135 years!
HOOPERS LAKE
3 miles west and 2 miles north of Beulah Camping | Fishing | Swimming | Boating | Water Skiing | & Much More June 14, 2008
Sara at Ward Travel presents...
Kingdoms of Southeast Asia
Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Thailand January 7 - 31, 2021
Book Now & Save
To everyone at the Empire-Advance, past & present, who have dedicated their time to recording our area’s history...
Congratulations
on 135 years
$200
Per Person
TERRI COSENS
For more information contact Sara Curtis at WARD TRAVEL - 326 KING STREET EAST, VIRDEN 204-748-3351 • sward1@mymts.net Serving Virden & Area for 20 years
Real Estate Sales Representative
204.748.7699 1040 Princess Ave, Brandon, MB
SERVING VIRDEN & AREA!
February 14, 2020
Commemorative Edition
October 14, 2016
October 20, 2017
COMING SPRING/ SUMMER 2020 THANK YOU FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT!
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Commemorative Virden Empire-Advance Edition
February 14, 2020
A huge Thank you It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to serve the Town of Virden over the last 135 years. Delivering community news is the core of what we do and we couldn’t do it without the help of our generous advertisers, wonderful staff and you, the community. Special thanks to all that made this project possible!
all rights reserved. no part of this paper may be reproduced in any form without the permission in writing of the publishers. the virden empire-advance reserves the right to delete and words or phrases deemed to be objectionable or refuse to publish an advertisement. the virden empire-advance shall not be held responsible for any loss or damage to any advertiser or third party resulting from the failure of an advertisement to appear or from any error or omission in any advertisement which is published.
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Nancy Johnson
Anne Davison editor
content research
Chris Istace
Marian Braybrook
Melissa Caines
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Goldie Mason
Publisher
administrative assistant
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Published on Feb 12, 2020
A look into Virden and area history from the archives of the Empire-Advance in celebration of 135 years of service.
Published on Feb 12, 2020
A look into Virden and area history from the archives of the Empire-Advance in celebration of 135 years of service.