October 25, 2024 - Neepawa Banner & Press

Class dismissed…for now

Manitoba Government halts new school build under old P3 plan

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

The construction of nine new schools across Manitoba, including a vocational high school in Neepawa, are not proceeding as planned.

Late last week, The Canadian Press reported that after an extensive review, Manitoba’s NDP led government was officially ending all current plans related to the build of nine new schools throughout the province.

Tracy Schmidt, the province’s acting education minister, said the Province is still committed to building those schools, but just not in the style that the previous government had announced.

Last year, the then Progressive Conservative helmed government promised to have new schools built through what is known as a P3 model. The P3 concept involves a public/ private sector hybrid. A private contractor was to be hired to design, construct and maintain the buildings, while the government would agree to a 30-year funding deal that would include money for ongoing maintenance.

The province put out a request for qualifications from potential bidders before last year’s election, and the New Democrats put the project under review after it won said election and officially formed government.

The schools under the P3 plan were to be built in several communities including Winnipeg, Brandon, Ste. Anne,…and Neepawa.

Continue to work towards a new school

Local response to the cancellation could be described as a combination of slight disappointment,

but strong determination.

The Banner & Press reached out to the Beautiful Plains School Division (BPSD), for its’ reaction. Superintendent Jason Young stated that it was not a surprise to them in any way that the P3 model was being discontinued.

“When the P3 model was proposed by the former government, it was made very clear by the NDP government that they were not in support of the model,” noted Young. “As has been stated by the government, regardless of the party in power, there is a need for schools in the province, regardless of the model being used, so we continue to work towards planning for a new school so that when we are prioritized provincially, we are ready to proceed.”

As for what may happen with the 22 acres of land adjacent to Neepawa’s new hospital, where the new school was planned, Young clarified for the Banner & Press that “The land adjacent to the hospital is still owned by the landowner and is in the process of being purchased. Our intent would be to continue to work with the landowner and the Town of Neepawa to do the necessary work to keep the project moving forward.” Young concluded by stating that the School Division has had incredible cooperation from the Town of Neepawa and the landowner to work within these changing provincial timelines.

Neepawa not surprised by decision

As for the perspective from the Town of Neepawa itself, Mayor Brian Hedley said that the cancellation of the P3 model did not catch them by surprise. He noted that the current

In Nov. 2023, 22 acres of land near the new hospital was being discussed as the local for a new vocational high school in Neepawa. The project was to be built under a public/private partnership. The P3 model was promised by the previous P.C.Government. On Wednesday, Oct. 16, Manitoba’s current NDP Government confirmed it would halt those hybrid plans, and explore a method to have this, and the eight other announced schools previously promised to be up and running by 2027.

NDP government had been up front about some of its’ reservations to the proposal and its intent to review its’ value.

Hedley concluded the conversation by stating that all indications from the province are that this doesn’t mean the end of a

PLUMAS SALES & SERVICE

new school in Neepawa, but merely the end of this hybrid option.

Manitoba’s current NDP Government has noted that

it is exploring a method to have all nine of the announced schools, up and running by 2027.

what people turn to for the latest developments and unique insight into the business world. It’s what people turn to for a heartwarming story or just a good laugh.

What else can amaze and surprise like the newspaper? It’s what people turn to for stories and features they won’t find anywhere else.

1974: Neepawa Inner Wheel welcomes international president

By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press

125 years ago, Saturday, October 28, 1899

Francis Rouleau and family leave Neepawa next week to take up residence in Rathwell where Mr. Rouleau will engage in missionary work amongst the French settlers on behalf of the Baptist church.

100 years ago, Friday, October 24, 1924

Glenella: Mr. Segal continues to improve his store and has had an eclectic lighting system installed.

The Roblin Review has joined the ranks of

Manitoba All-Home-Print weekly newspapers. And it is well printed. Gives outsiders a good impression of Roblin.

Records show that no heathen people ever developed a death ray. –Detroit News.

75 years ago, Thursday, October 20, 1949

“Canadian mothers whose sons are buried in Germany may be assured that the boys have a lovely resting place,” declared Mrs. Baroni, who recently returned to Neepawa after visiting the grave of her son in Berlin.

Mrs. Baroni is the first British Empire mother to visit the British Military Cemetary near

Berlin, where her son, Sgt. Raymond J. Baroni, RCAF, is buried.

Although landscaping and erection of markers is not yet completed, Mrs. Baroni found the cemetery a beautiful spot on the outskirts of the bombblasted city of Berlin, and said that it would be even more lovely when all work was completed.

Birnie: In honour of Mr. and Mrs. A. Singleton who are leaving the district to reside in Neepawa, nearby friends and neighbors met at their home taking them utterly by surprise.

Eden: A chapter of the CGIT was organized last week in the church parlors here.

Miss Inez Armstrong and Miss Esther Hoffman are leaders of the new group.

The following officers were elected: Irene Graham, president; Janice Stewart, secretary; and Betty Currie, treasurer.

Sixty-four years of married life will be celebrated today, Thursday, Oct. 20 by Mr. and Mrs. George Blackwell, well known residents of Neepawa.

50 years ago, Thursday, October 24, 1974

Neepawa Inner Wheel Club was honored Tuesday with a visit from the International President, Dr. Hylda Armstrong, of Ireland. She is shown here chatting with Mrs. Agnes McDougall, District 555 Chairman and Mrs. Freda Mackidd, Neepawa Club President. Dr. Armstrong arrived in Montreal in October and is spending the month visiting Inner Wheel, Rotary and Rotary Ann Clubs across Canada. She will spend two weeks visiting clubs in California before returning home.

20 years ago, Monday, November 1, 2004

One of Canada’s most celebrated political columnists makes his debut in The Neepawa Press this week.

Allan Fotheringham’s first column with us appears on Viewpoint, and we’re glad to say that puts our Page 4 in some good company.

Fotheringham is a 48year journalism veteran… He joins another widelyknown Press columnist–David Suzuki, who was recently named as one of the Top 10 Greatest Canadians in a CBC poll.

A Neepawa man has special memories of the Man of Steel, Christopher Reeve, after working on the hit movie Superman.

Roy Simon, who learned to fly while a member of the Neepawa Air Cadets Squadron No. 9 went on to a career as a licensed

airplane and helicopter pilot.

While based in Calgary in the 1970s, Simon was hired to pilot a helicopter used to shoot scenes for Superman…

Simon’s piece of film history is of a flight through the Rocky Mountains near Kanasaskis. His shot captured a rocket launcher.

While he didn’t get any one-on-one time with Reeve, Simon did get to meet two of the other actors in the film– Ned Beatty and Gene Hackman.

Disclaimer: The information gathered and used each week in the Looking Back feature is directly taken from the original print copy of the Neepawa Press and Neepawa Banner newspapers. Any errors or omissions from stories (Factually or otherwise) are the result of the original print and not the responsibility of the archivist for the current version of the Neepawa Banner & Press.

Everyone enjoys giving good advice, and how wonderful it is to be able to say the right thing at the right time.

Proverbs 15:23 (The Living Bible)

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BANNER & PRESS ARCHIVES

At this time in 1974, the Neepawa Inner Wheel club was honoured by the presence of international president Dr. Hylda Armstrong, of Ireland. She is shown here chatting with Mrs. Agnes McDougall (left), District 555 chairman and Mrs. Freda MacKidd (right), Neepawa Club President.

Perspectives

Tundra

By Chad Carpenter

Things to ponder for troubled times

This will be two columns in one.

The first one is short and is an “ask”, a request for everybody who reads these words. If you want to do something good for yourself, for your family, for your community and in fact, for our country, please do the following. If you are involved with a church, stay involved. If you aren’t, get involved. There are dozens of churches in our readership area and there will be at least one, and likely several, that would welcome your involvement and support. If there was ever a time when you need a church family or when a church needs you, it’s now. If there’s past hurts in your heart that came out of a church setting, I am sorry that happened but by the Grace of God, forgive their trespasses. It might take more than one try, but I can guarantee it will be worth it.

The second part is a visit to the halls of the Canadian government. I don’t remember a time when a sitting government had worn out its welcome more so than the current regime of Trudeau, the Younger. I am not a fan of Justin Trudeau and I wasn’t a fan of his father, Pierre.

Here are some reasons why the current government is held in such low esteem.

1. The handling of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted years of peoples’ lives, billons of dollars and largely misread the response needs.

2. The government gun buy-back program has spent $67million over the past few years and not even one gun has been bought back. There has been an exemption period for gun owners that ends at Oct. 31 but it remains unclear what will happen then.

3. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is calling on the federal government to scrap its carbon tax following a Parliamentary Budget Officer re-

Ken Waddell Right in the Centre

port confirming the carbon tax costs average households more than they get back in rebates.

“Once again the PBO confirms the carbon tax costs average families hundreds of dollars more than they get back in rebates,” said Franco Terrazzano, CTF Federal Director. “This PBO report proves that politicians’ favourite talking point is incorrect and it proves the carbon tax is making life harder for Canadians.”

4. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation released Leger polling showing 59 per cent of Canadians oppose the federal government’s ban on new gas and diesel vehicles by 2035.

“The results of the poll are clear: Canadians don’t want the government to ban new gas and diesel vehicles,” said Terrazzano. “Canadians want the option to buy new gas-powered minivans and diesel work trucks and taxpayers know this ban will cost us a fortune.”

The federal government plans to ban the sale of new gas and diesel vehicles by 2035.

The Leger poll asked Canadians if they support or oppose the federal ban on the sale of new gas and diesel vehicles.

The results of the poll show: 59 per cent oppose the ban, 29 per cent support the ban, 12 per cent don’t know.

Among those who are decided on the issue, 67 per cent of Canadians oppose the federal ban on new gas and diesel vehicles.

5. And again from the The Canadian

Customer Account

Taxpayers Federation who are calling on the federal government to cut spending to balance the budget following a Statistics Canada report showing interest charges increased by 29 per cent over the year.

Stats-Can recently released its Government Finance Statistics report for the second quarter.

“Interest expenses for the federal government grew 29 per cent year over year,” according to Stats-Can. “The federal government devoted 10.9 cents of every dollar of revenue to cover interest expenses.”

The federal government projects to run a $40-billion deficit this year, according to Budget 2024. The budget also projects interest charges on the debt costing $54 billion this year, which is more than the federal government will send to the provinces in health transfers.

The federal government won’t balance the budget until 2040, according to supplementary data released by the Parliamentary Budget Officer in its most recent Fiscal Sustainability Report.

“This report should be a wake-up call for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau,” Terrazzano said. “The feds need to cut spending and balance the budget before debt interest charges blow an even bigger hole in the budget.”

So, I ask you to seriously consider my question at the the beginning of this column and after that, to consider the above five points on federal policy when you cast your vote in the next federal election.

Rita Friesen Homebodies

Road Trip!!

It had been a number of years since I had spent time in Slave Lake, Alberta. Oct. 12 marked ten years of life without Ed, and my family invited me to spend the day with them, on the shores of the vast Slave Lake. It did not take a great deal of persuasion for me to agree to a long weekend with my oldest son and many of his family. My oldest grandson wished to host several us as houseguests, and many of us for the meal. Another grandson offered to drive with me, and a daughter in Saskatoon offered accommodation for the night, coming and going, and better than that, she and her partner joined us for the time together. Who could turn down an offer like that!

Three of us left on a Thursday noon, grandson, Arie (dog!), and I. The drive was uneventful; the scenery with the fall colours was spectacular. Leaving Saskatoon the next morning the vehicle contained four adults and two dogs; Pism, a well-behaved rescue joined Arie. The scenery was beyond spectacular as we took the road less travelled; golden tamarack mixed with the vibrant evergreens, roadside weeds a range of browns and gold, glistening water, geese beyond counting, rolling countryside; the beauty of creation all around us.

We arrived at my son’s home to be greeted by sundry family and friends, and another dog, Shaker, a Papillion. The supper meal was wonderful, but only a precursor of what the weekend meals would offer. After a bit of a stretch we drove out to an acreage, the home of my grandson and his partner. Here we met two more dogs; Julius a brindle mix, and Jasmine, a lovely gentle collie cross. The home accommodated the owners, plus eleven guests, and another dog! Ragnar is a French bulldog, a puppy and so energized!

We managed, through great effort, to consume three meals a day. Okay, perhaps the noon to three was more like a snack pack on steroids! One morning breakfast was paper-thin crepes with real whipped cream and fruit filling. One morning it was homemade waffles with the traditional family brown sugar/butter sauce, and another was an egg casserole with homemade hollandaise sauce, and bacon. The suppers made the fantastic breakfasts look shabby! Most times there were twenty persons at the table, sitting down, chatting, telling stories and making memories. Needless to say we ate a great deal.

And we played table games. Three generations competing in word games and number games, learning new games, reminiscing and fellowshipping.

A group of us did a lot of walking. That would have been mostly the dog people! Six to ten people with a constant six dogs; along the country road, on the lakeshore, and one afternoon at the dog friendly Salve Lake Beach. How they ran, raced, retrieved sticks from the frigid water, galloped and spun. Watching them was pure pleasure.

The trip home is often anti-climatic. We had packed lunches from the stash of bonus foods, and basically drove home. Again a night’s rest in Saskatoon and then home: tired, fulfilled, comforted and strengthened.

Thanks for unsung heroes

There is, in all communities served by this newspaper, a group of unsung heroes whose service to our citizens is of inestimable value. They may not see themselves as heroes. But they are-and this week I want to pay special attention to them.

These heroes come from every segment of society. Some are old; some are young. Some are professionally trained; some are not. Some have multiple clients; some have only one. Some are paid for the work they do; some do it as a labor of love. Some will serve one client for a while and then move on. Some will serve the same client for life.

By now you’ve probably guessed who those unsung heroes are. They are the parents, partners, children, doctors, nurses, therapists and health care aides whose loving care enables chronically ill people to remain in their homes for extended periods of time, thus freeing hospital beds and care home placements for those

Neil Strohschein

who really need them. Being a caregiver is hard work. Caregivers often see their clients (those for whom they care) when they are at their worst. Caregivers must endure times of impatience, complaining and resistance to treatment or services they wish to provide. If they work in a hospital or personal care home, they can ask for help from staff members who will help them complete their assigned tasks. But if you are a primary care giver, someone looking after a parent or other close relative in your home, that help may not always be available. But that doesn’t stop you. You try your best. You use every means you can devise to overcome the impatience, criticism or

resistance to the help you offer. Sometimes you succeed. Sometimes, you just have to walk away. You come back in an hour or so and hope that attitudes have changed and required care can be given. You are thankful for small victories; and for another day of having the one you love at home with you, to enjoy life in familiar surroundings with family close by.

This week, I want to pay tribute to all of those who give of themselves each day to help care for those who, because of age, illness or infirmity, cannot care for themselves as they wish they could. By your dedication and devotion to duty, you bring rays of light into the lives of people who are battling severe illness, who are

confined to their homes for prolonged periods of time or who need help with activities that, at one time, they could do on their own. You are not some casual person who comes by from time to time for a short visit. Over time, you become family; and when you retire, change jobs, are assigned to another unit in the care home or to other home care clients who need your special skills, we are saddened and miss you terribly.

Today we honour you. We thank you for a job well done. And in those times when the work is hard, the hours are long, travel conditions are less than ideal and the thanks you get is far from what you deserve; we pray that God will send you people who will give you the care, comfort and encouragement you need to heal your wounds and get ready for another day. You are our unsung heroes. May you always know that you have done some good for someone today; even if no one else recognizes it.

Thumbs up, thumbs down

The choice is subsidies or cuts

Ken Waddell’s Sept 13 editorial “Canada Post in trouble” identifies the problems of a public utility mandated to deliver mail to every address in Canada while its revenue is in decline due to the private sector taking over the lucrative parcel delivery market in the large urban centres. The remaining markets, particularly rural mail delivery are extremely unprofitable. There are two apparent solutions. Have the public treasury subsidize rural mail delivery or implement drastic service reductions in rural mail delivery. A majority of the rural electorate can be counted on to champion the rhetoric of tax cuts and oppose the subsidizing of rural postal services even though in this case urban taxpayer would be subsidizing rural mail delivery.

The editor suggests that ending rural mail routes combined with a reducing rural mail delivery to once a week would help solve Canada Post’s financial problems. Such a change would also serve to broaden the void in services availability to rural and urban communities. Local Post Office service would be reduced from five days per week to one day per week. Local Canada Post employees would be forced to move from the security of full time employment to the insecurity of part time employment. Many would be forced to relocate to larger urban centres to find full time employment resulting in a further depopulation and implosion of our rural economy.

A big thank you and thumbs up to the wonderful staff at Neepawa Hospital. Our little grandchild became sick in the night during a recent visit. On arrival at the hospital, she was quickly seen and treated and admitted for an overnight stay. A huge relief for all! We are very grateful for our health care system in Neepawa.

Berni and Bryan Harley Neepawa, MB

Thumbs down to three of the local advertising Fuel Companies for the unbelievable price being charged for gas, when from Minnedosa to Brandon it is around 22 cents per litre cheaper.

Dale Noonan

Neepawa, MB

Manitoba Farmers have been BLESSED with many good HARVEST Days with only light rains on October 2, 12 & 22 … a dry Fall after a wet Spring have allowed grains to be safely stored in the Grain Bins!!

Robert Smith

Edrans, MB

The Killing Frost of -6 celsius on Oct. 15 has seen the end of the Beautiful Flowers with the exception of a few strong plants near buildings . Now … we will have to survive another long Cold Winter as we impatiently prepare for next spring’s flower planting !

Robert Smith

Edrans, MB

The editor’s conclusion that Canada Post needs an overhaul or it just won’t be there in a few years is a valid observation. With the pending election of a Pierre Poilievre/Dan Mazier government, I would anticipate the total privatization of Canada Post. There could be nothing more virtuous in Conservative ideology than expending public funds to subsidize a private enterprise that had once been a public service. The public subsidization of rural internet services is a prime example of the private sectors willingness to service the profitable urban markets while demanding and receiving government subsidization to service the unprofitable rural internet markets. The subsidization of rural postal services is not the issue, its who we chose to subsidize and at what cost.

Fred Tait

Rosendale, MB

Would you like to send in a letter to the editor? Email news@neepawabanner.com to submit yours. Letters are limited to approximately 400 words The Banner & Press reserves the right to edit letters to fit available space.

Drysdale

out of helen’s kitchen

Caraway

If you’ve ever eaten rye bread, you have no doubt tasted caraway seeds, but there is much more to this little seed. Caraway spice is a staple ingredient in many typical German, Hungarian, and Polish dishes. They are a traditional ingredient in a British seed cake, Irish soda bread, Dutch cheeses and the Scandinavian spirit, Aquavit. It also is used in Serbian scones and cheeses, Middle Eastern puddings and harissa paste. Caraway has the flavor of licorice with hints of citrus and pepper. Caraway seeds are also used in flavoring curries, soups, sausages, vegetables and pairs well with garlic, pork, and cabbage.

Caraway was native to Central Europe and then spread across Europe, into the Mediterranean and then the Middle East. It belongs to the Apiaceae family of aromatic flowering plants which includes anise, celery, dill, parsley, and carrot. Caraway pairs well with other common spices, such as cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds. In the absence of caraway seeds, there are several alternatives that can work in their place. Coriander seeds, fennel seeds, cumin seeds and anise seeds also work in recipes in place of caraway. Early uses for caraway were medicinal. References found in German medical books dating back to the 12th century refer to it as a stomach tonic as well as a remedy for excess gas and colic.

Toasted caraway seeds are a flavorful addition to loaves of bread and salads. To toast caraway seeds, place a small dry skillet over medium-high heat and add the seeds. Cook for two to three minutes, or until the seeds are fragrant. Remove from heat and let the seeds cool. Caraway spice is sold in two forms: as a seed or as powder. Whole caraway seeds tend to keep their flavor longer than the ground version. It works well to buy whole, and grind as needed.

Caraway roast pork

3-4 lb. boneless pork loin roast

2 large garlic cloves, quartered 1/3 cup flour

1 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. pepper

1 Tbsp. caraway seeds 3 cups beef or chicken broth 1/4 cup flour extra salt and pepper

Trim any excess fat from the pork loin roast. Make slits in the roast and insert the pieces of garlic. Combine the flour, salt and pepper. Roll the roast in the flour mix until completely covered. Pat the caraway over the top of the roast. Roast fat side down in a 375∞F for one hour. Add one cup of the broth and cover with the lid. Turn the oven down to 325∞F and cook for another half hour or until the internal temperature reaches 150° F – 160° F for medium well done. Over cooking pork will dry it out. After removing your pork from the oven, cover the roast with foil and set it aside to rest for about 10 minutes before carving. In the meantime, take one half cup of the broth and mix with the flour until smooth. Pour the remaining broth in the roaster and add the flour and broth mixture. Over medium heat cook the broth until it thickens stirring all the while. Salt and pepper to taste.

Mixing caraway with sautéed cabbage gives this easy side dish a distinctly German flair.

Caroway, ginger cabbage

2 Tbsp. butter

1 Tbsp. diced fresh ginger

1 tsp. minced garlic or more to taste

1/2 onion, cut into 1/4-inch slices

1/2 head cabbage, thinly sliced

1/4 cup white wine or wine vinegar

1/4 cup water

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1 Tbsp. white sugar

1 tsp. caraway seeds or more to taste

1 large apple, thinly sliced

1 large pear, thinly sliced(optional)

Melt the butter in a Dutch oven. Add the ginger, garlic, and onion and sauté for two minutes. Add the cabbage and sauté for several more minutes. Add the wine, water, salt, pepper, sugar and caraway seeds and cook for 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to toss the cabbage and prevent it from sticking to the pan. Add the apple and pears, put the lid on and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Do not stir once the apples and pears have been added. Serve.

Have some historic items?

Submit your local historical photos and articles to the Banner & Press!

To submit, simply contact us at news@neepawabanner.com

Or drop in at the Banner & Press office at 423 Mountain Ave.!

Neepawa Town Council update: Tuesday, Oct. 15

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

The latest meeting of Council for the Town of Neepawa was a relatively short session, but still covered several topics that could have local long-term implications, including:

Temporary office space expansion approved

Approval was given to Neepawa-Gladstone Coop for the installation of additional office space at its’ Neepawa based Food Store. Miles Boyce spoke on behalf of the application for the Co-op, and informed Council that this space would be a temporary extension.

“We need the office space, [as] we are out of space in the Food Store. We would like the permit granted for three years. After that, we would be planning for a Food Store expansion to accommodate growth,” said Boyce. “[As for] wheelchair accessibility to the building, we would have a wooden ramp on one side and stairs on the other and it would be attached to the Food Store on the northside, facing Highway #16.”

The new office space would be a modular extension with an estimated length of 54 feet and arrangements would need to be made with the Town in relation to sewer and water. The application was distributed to other businesses within 100 metres of that area, and there were no comments made. Council then approved the application. Mayor Brian Hedley did not participate in any of the deliberations or the vote, as he recused himself due to conflict. Along with serving as Mayor, Hedley is

Monday-Friday 8:00am - 5:00 pm

also the General Manager for Neepawa-Gladstone Co-op.

Council

Reports

Yvonne Sisley updated Council on preparation for the What’s the Big Idea event (Further details appear in a separate story in this week’s edition of the Banner & Press). Sisley also thanked Katy Martin and the NACI Community Art Club for their addition of artwork to the boarded up buildings along Hamilton Street. A reminder, as well that ‘The Park at Dark’ event is set for the Riverbend Park on Oct. 25 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The pre-school Halloween costume parade will also occur on Oct. 31. All businesses that wish to participate can contact Recreation Department to be added to the list of stops for the youngsters. One final point brought up by Sisley noted that a social media post by the Town of Neepawa, highlighting autumn pictures at Park Lake has generated 11,570 views.

Manager of Operations

Denis Saquet noted that raw waterline flushing for the fall had been on the go and was completed over the weekend.

As well, the annual yard waste pickup program within the community began on Monday, Oct. 21. The items must be placed in compostable paper bags only. No plastic whatsoever will be picked up.

The Hospital water and sewer projects are set to begin. One other item of note, as the fire hydrant that had been damaged back in

late August on the corner of 3rd Avenue and Ellen Street has been repaired.

Misc

• Tsibog’s Eatery and Catering has gained approval for its funding request to the Storefront Improvement Program. The business will receive $2,893 to assist with updating exterior details on the front of its building, including a canopy. The Storefront Improvement Incentive Program was created in 2019 to assist businesses within the downtown section of Neepawa with the cost of store frontage upgrades.

• The last available lot for the planned housing expansion on the 400 block of Ellen Street has been sold. 404 Ellen St has been sold for $45,000 subject to a development agreement.

• As part of the new Hospital project, Town has come to an agreement with Manitoba Hydro for the installation of new street lights. The deal will see street lighting installed at the customer service extension at 491 Hamilton St, for a cost of $306,328.

• Third reading has been given and passed to a rezoning of a portion of land on the northern portion of 320 acres purchased by the Town of Neepawa earlier this year. This particular section has been rezoned from agricultural restricted to industrial heavy, and industrial commercial for closer to Highway #5. Concerns on this change had been brought up by property owners close to this land at a previous Council meeting.

‘It was time to step back’ Flowers on Main sells to Inspire studio

By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press

After many years of service, a Minnedosa business is changing hands and expanding another. Flowers on Main, first purchased by Wayne and Carol Hopkins alongside daughter Tammy Gowler in 2008, is set to fully turn over to Marlies Soltys’s Inspire Studio. This transfer was first discussed by Gowler and Soltys this past summer, then officially announced to the public on Oct. 18. Inspire’s official possession of Flowers on Main is set for Jan. 1, 2025. Flowers on Main was initially located at 110 Main Street, later moving down the street beside the bridge, then finally to Gowler’s home in 2018. From there, a partnership with Inspire Studio was sparked, with Inspire offering Gowler’s floral arrangements for the past six years.

“After 16 years and for the last six years working two jobs it was time to step back,” said Gowler. “When I spoke to Marlies at Inspire about it, she quickly said ‘I think it would be a great fit and we want to do this’.”

Gowler added, “Next for me is focusing on my job as Finance and Operations Coordinator at the Heritage Co-op and having my evenings and weekends back to spend with family and furbabies.”

Soltys shared Inspire’s perspective as well, stating, “We got to experience first hand what an incredible business Tammy has grown. When she told us she was going to sell, it was one of the fastest decisions my husband and I agreed upon for many reasons: Flowers on Main has been well established and reputable with a large clientele. We’ve had their flowers in our business for the last 6 years, we want to continue that it has a huge potential to grow with Tammy’s guidance. Having it go up for sale publicly could have risked Minnedosa not having fresh flowers available.”

‘An amazing 16 years’

She explained further that Gowler will be staying on with Inspire to provide

assistance throughout its first year of fully incorporating the floral services into its business, sharing the tricks of the trade, knowledge and vast experience. Before that experience begins, this means that Inspire will undergo a transitional period. While Inspire typically closes for a few weeks after Christmas, this coming season the closure will be extended to include the month of Janu-

ary 2025. This will allow Inspire time to readjust its space with the installation of extra counters, an extra cooler for the flowers, painting and rearranging.

Sharing a final comment, Gowler said, “It has been an amazing 16 years and I appreciate all the support and customers throughout the years. We had the opportunity to meet and be a part of many happy events and to support those in time

of sadness. My parents and I want to thank everyone for everything and cannot wait to see what Marlies at Inspire will do in the future. I have been lucky to have made a great friend with Marlies and wish her all the success!”

Soltys echoed a similar sentiment in her closing statements, expressing acknowledgments of Gowler’s dedication and more.

“We have had a first row seat watching how passionate Tammy is about her business, how impeccable her flower pieces are, and how dedicated she is to her clientele,” said Soltys “We’re beyond honoured to know that she trusts us with her business, and even more grateful for the friendship we’ve built together. We are beyond excited for this new chapter at Inspire and are looking forward to becoming Minnedosa’s and our surrounding areas full fledged florist.”

Let’s Scare Away Hunger

By Lena Stadnyk NACI Hope Group

It is that time of year again for the Neepawa Area Collegiate HOPE group to take part in their annual “Scare Away Hunger” food drive to support the local Salvation Army food bank. Last year, the Neepawa Salvation Army assisted 1553 individuals and 603 households through the food bank. These statistics are just a reminder of how valuable our food bank is in our community.

On Oct. 24, the HOPE group will be hanging bags supplied by the Neepawa Rotary Club on all doorknobs in our community.

To help fill the food bank, we are asking the community to contribute if you can to fill these bags with donated food items such as: flour, sugar, baking supplies, canned/ shelf stable milk, oatmeal, cereal, canned fruit and vegetables,

canned meat and fish, pasta, pasta sauce, peanut butter, jam, Cheese Whiz, Nutella spreads, granola bars, peanut free school snacks, and toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

On Oct. 31, the HOPE group will be coming back around in the evening to collect the donations and take them to the Salvation Army to be given to people in need. The HOPE group asks that you leave your filled bag in a visible, well-lit area by 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 31 for pickup. Monetary donations are also accepted.

Please note that if your home is missed inadvertently on pick up night, we ask that you take your bag to the Salvation Army or call them at 476-5869 for it to be picked up the next day.

The HOPE group and the Neepawa Salvation Army thank you in advance for all of your generous donations! Let’s Help Scare Away Hunger!

Next Hearing Clinic

PHOTO FROM FLOWERS ON MAIN VIA SOCIAL MEDIA Flowers on Main is known for its beautiful floral arrangements– a service to be fully incorporated at Inspire Studio for 2025.

Providing the ‘keys to success’

New and growing businesses attend ninth annual What’s the Big Idea?

By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press

New and growing businesses were spotlighted at the Neepawa Legion last week. On Oct. 17, Neepawa Economic Development held its ninth annual What’s the Big Idea? event, welcoming a total of seven entrepreneurs to pitch and showcase their business ideas.

This full day event included a number of activities for those involved, with the public also welcome to attend. A portion of these activities was the pitching parlour, held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., and the presentation of a total of $11,300 in cash and prizes to the entrepreneurs. Each pitch was judged live by Alexander Levoie (Rural Manitoba Economic Development Corp), Owen Carr (HyLife Foods) and Diane Paterson (Neepawa and Area Planning District).

“The ‘What’s the Big Idea?’ event provides keys for success for entrepreneurs as they bravely face the challenges of the startup phase,” said economic development officer Marilyn Crewe.

Mayor Brian Hedley, who provided opening comments that day, stated, “I’m pleased to see our communities come together to support local entrepreneurs. The annual What’s the Big Idea? event strengthens small business which is the backbone of our rural economy”

Awards and briefs

Following are the awards results and some brief info on each of the businesses:

•Gentle Bucket– Gentle Bucket is a cleaning company that was pitched by Davelyn Salta. It services Neepawa and the surrounding area.

Gentle Bucket received Best Pitch of the Day, $1,000 from Community Futures Westman, $300 from Neepawa Lionelles, $500 and a one year membership from Neepawa

The stories in the Neepawa Banner & Press are local, unlike other news outlets that only tell you about issues that are far away.

& District Chamber and $1,000 from the Town of Neepawa.

•SS Ventures– This business by Shirley Windross and Scott Dyke pitched its sports product titled Sniper Sauce Hockey Wax. It provides an alternative to traditional, petroleum-based/paraffin hockey waxes.

SS Ventures was awarded the Best Overall Idea prize of $1,000 from Stride Credit Union and won

$1,000 from the Minnedosa CDC.

•The Missus Interior Detailing– Owned by Melissa Rossnagel, The Missus as a vehicle interior detailing (cleaning) business. It provides services for both passenger vehicles, semis and agricultural equipment.

This pitch was awarded a $1,000 Marketing Package from PromoTime, The Neepawa Banner & Press and Provost Signs, $1,000

from the Rural Municipality of Rosedale and $500 from MNP for the Best Idea in Ag.

•Bold Stitch Designs– This custom apparel and promotion company was presented by Nicole Cooper. Bold Stitch Designs grew from the prior purchase of the business known as KIMbroidery and offers a variety of custom services such as embroidery and screen printing.

For this pitch, Cooper won $500 from the Rural Municipality of MintoOdanah.

•Alt Home Décor–This retail business by Alyssa McLean offers a variety of ‘alternative’ style home decoration year-round, tarot cards and much more. It is located in Minnedosa.

•Flowers on 16– This floral service is located just outside Neepawa on Highway 16. Flowers on 16 is home-based and run by Tricia Braun, offering custom arrangements to its patrons. Braun received $2,000 from the Neepawa Area Development Corp (NADCO) for this pitch.

•Poetry in Motion–Last, but certainly not least, on this list is this business by JJ Scherr. Scherr’s business pitch revolves around the arts. This included arts education (such as piano lessons and other workshops), performances and audition rehearsal assistance. Some may recognize him from past performances throughout the Canadian Prairies, including Winnipeg’s Rainbow Stage and Neepawa’s Got Pride. Best wishes are extended to all of these individuals and their businesses. For those who missed the event and would like to see the day’s activities and presentations in depth, a program will be aired and available on NACTV.

Alt Home Décor was awarded $1,000 from the Town of Minnedosa, as well as a one year membership for the Minnedosa Chamber of Commerce.

PHOTOS BY CASPER WEHRHAHN

What’s the Big Idea?’s 2024 edition judges (Owen Carr, Alexander Levoie and Diane Paterson) carefully considered each business pitch.

Pictured here are scenes from a few of the many displays that The Neepawa Banner & Press took in during the afternoon’s refreshment period. Left: Some samples that were on display by Bold Stitch Designs. Middle: JJ Scherr played a beautiful piano composition. Right: A display by Flowers on 16.

Those who support, need support themselves sometimes

Concentra Bank, Stride Credit Union donates to local Food Bank expansion

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

The Salvation Army Neepawa Community Ministries Centre (NCMC) is one step closer to their renovation goals, thanks to the support of a former employee and our local Stride Credit Union

Amanda Lodge, who worked at the Salvation Army for nearly four years, along with her current employer, Stride CU, recently donated $10,000 to the planned expansion of our local Food Bank.

The money was provided through a national program created by Concentra, a bank that supports credit unions. Each year, Concentra distributes funds through Credit Unions to an array of worthy community projects and programs across Canada.

Upon learning of the initiative through Stride, Lodge submitted a nomination on behalf of NCMC describing their services and programs. Lodge said she has seen first hand the type of good the Salvation Army Community Ministries tries to do and was inspired by their example.

“Four years of seeing the commitment to the community, that was the inspiration. So, with working there, I knew the ins and outs. I knew about the expansion

PHOTOS BY EOIN DEVEREUX

Members of Concentra Bank, Stride Credit Union toured the existing space for the Salavation Army Neepawa Community Ministries Centre, as well as the soon to be renovated space planned for a larger, more shoppingstyle Food Bank set to open in early 2025.

and I knew that it was going to be a struggle trying to get that expansion going,” said Lodge. “And then I was going through my emails here [with Stride Credit Union], and I saw the grant and that

And I’m constantly telling people like, if you just need a help, a helping hand, like, go talk to Amanda [Naughton-Gale] and see,” indicated Lodge. “So, I do think that the expansion and having that separated from the thrift store is going to make a huge difference.”

The $10,000 will be used for planned expansion of Food Bank services. The NCMC has agreed to a lease of more space at its current location at 342 Mountain Ave, and is proceeding with the creation of a larger, more shopping-style type local food bank. It will also include a community kitchen, expanded training space, new offices and a reception area.

Neepawa Community Ministries Director Amanda Naughton-Gale said this addition support will make a huge difference in ensuring this project is completed as soon as possible.

it could help a community.

And I thought, ‘Well, I’m pretty sure the Salvation Army fits under this.”

So with the assistance of both her former and current employers, Lodge submitted the nomination. She had no expectations of receiving the support, as Canada is a big country, and there are many worthy causes that could use this type of support within it. Lodge said she was thrilled to learn that her request was one of the recipients of the $10,000 donation.

“Honestly, every dollar that we’re able to put into this project has been a blessing,” stated Naughton-Gale. “And it warms my heart to know that we’re doing good work and that people recognize that, see it and are inspired by it.”

“I love it. I love being able to help the community. I’ve met people through that job that utilize the Food Bank.

Currently, the hope is for the renovation needed to expand the Food Bank could be completed sometime in the first quarter of 2025.

Friday, Oct. 18. Neepawa 5-4 OT Swan Valley

First Period

03:27 NPA D. McCann (4) PP

ASST: M.Hartley (2), C. Alexander (9)

18:44 SV W. Brown (1)

ASST: L. Gulutzan (9), A. Taylor (5) Second Period

01:10 SV B. Groome (1)

ASST: B. Muller (2), C. Nailen (3)

04:24 SV D. Unrau (1)

ASST: W. Brown (1), A. Taylor (6)

04:58 NPA C. Alexander (3)

ASST: M. Hartley (3)

08:47 NPA C. Alexander (4)

ASST: M. Hartley (4), L. Paquette (6)

18:45 NPA T. Tychonick (2)

ASST: B. Quinn-Lagria (5), K. Skrupa (6) Third Period

02:45 SV T. Easton (1)

ASST: D. Hunt (3), T. Boychuk (1) Overtime

04:16 NPA J. Larkins (1)

ASST: L. Paquette (7) C. Alexander (10) Scoring 1 2 3 OT Total PP

SV 1 2 1 0 4 0/3 NPA 1 3 0 1 5 1/3 Goaltender

SV J. Miller - (OTL) 28/33 saves NPA M. Lobreau - (W) 23/27 saves Attendance: 368 - Yellowhead Centre

Oct. 19. Neepawa 3-2 OT Swan Valley

03:24 SV L. Gulutzan (3) ASST: A. Taylor (7), W. Brown (2) Second Period 11:33

C. Hegarty (8)

ASST: T. Lewis (4)

Third Period

11:53 SEL O. Warnick (9) PP

ASST: J. Zieglar (8), L. McCarthy (14)

Scoring 1 2 3 Total PP

SEL 3 1 1

Goaltender

SEL N. Olsonawski - (W) 26/28 saves NPA M. Lobreau - (L) 22/27 saves Attendance: 266 - Yellowhead Centre

Titans win two of three at home

Logan Paquette (#18) battles for control of the puck against Swan Valley’s Ben Groome on

18 game at the Yellowhead Centre. Neepawa would win this game, as well as the

both in overtime.

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

The Neepawa Titans were pushed to the limit over the weekend, in a pair of games by the Swan Valley Stampeders. Fortunately, Neepawa was able to come through and in both those games in overtime.

Jace Larkins played the OT hero on Friday, Oct. 18, scoring 4:16 into extra time, to give the Titans the 5-4 win. Colton Alexander, meanwhile, lead the way for Neepawa throughout regulation as he had a four point night (2 goals - 2 assists). Tim Tychonick, and Dawson McCann had the other goals for Neepawa, while Mason Hartley contributed three assists.

The next night at the

Club 55 Bowling

Oct. 17 - Ladies’

: Elsie Slimmon 564.  Men’s High Single & Triple: Darrell Gabler 209 & 551.  Other Good Scores: Elsie Slimmon 206, 189, 169; Carole LeBoutillier 151, 169, 163; Darrell Gabler 169, 173; Eleanor Scott 166, 178; Marg Swidnicki 161; Judy Gabler 155; Vivian Oswald 150, 181; Muriel Porada 150; Laurie Kohinski 161, 193; Caroline Harding 152; Russ Taylor 162, 193; Barb Bohn 151; Chuck Morden 179, 203.

Yellowhead Centre, these two teams would go to overtime once again, and once again it was Neepawa who earned the extra point in the standings. Colton Alexander picked up the overtime win with a goal just 53 seconds into OT, to make the final score 3-2. Garrett MacDonald and D.J. Meloney picked up the other goals for the home-side.

After a pair of close calls against Swan Valley, the Neepawa Titans immediately welcomed the league’s best team, the Selkirk Steelers, to the Yellowhead Centre on Tuesday, Oct. 22.

In this game, Selkirk jumped out to a quick 3-1 lead in the opening period, and were able to coast to a 5-2 victory. Mason Hartley

and Caden Hegarty scored the goals for Neepawa.

With these recent results, Neepawa’s record improved to 7-5-0-1, which places them in third place in the MJHL’s West Division.

Next up for Neepawa will be a pair of road games. First against the Steinbach Pistons on Friday, Oct. 25,

on

followed by a Saturday, night in Niverville versus the Nighthawks.

The next home game at the Yellowhead Centre will be Tuesday, Oct. 29, as the Titans will once again face the Selkirk Steelers. Start time for this game is set for 7:30 p.m.

PHOTO BY EOIN DEVEREUX

their Friday, Oct.

rematch

Saturday,

Global issues have local impact on Neepawa-Gladstone Co-op

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

Several outside forces ended up impacting the year-end results for Neepawa-Gladstone Co-op Ltd. The local cooperative held its annual general meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at the ArtsForward building in Neepawa.

This get-together featured reports from Jason Sumner, on behalf of the board of directors, Co-op general manager Brian Hedley, also provided on overview of the current financial outlook.

In his presentation to attendees, Hedley noted that “2023 saw multiple wars, economic stress, catastrophic weather, and natural disasters and threatening economic developments in several countries of the world. In a global market, it all affects the Co-op but maybe this is the new normal that we must get used to.”

Breaking down the numbers

For 2023, the total sales year-over-year increased from $110.2 million to $113 million. That was another record setting sales year for Neepawa-Gladstone. Unfortunately, the cost of purchasing those goods to sell, also rose year-overyear. In basic terms, while our Co-op made more gross revenue this year, the overall profit margins got a little bit tighter.

Local savings for last year were a loss of $1.47 million, compared to $511,916 savings in 2022. FCL’s patronage and the loyalty program brought the net savings up to $2.5 million compared to $3.9 million in 2022.

In 2023, there were 492 new memberships purchased, which was up from 451 the previous year. Total memberships now stand at 9,393 (7,614 active and 1,779 inactive). Patronage refunds were allocated to the membership in the amount of $1.36 million.

A divisional breakdown

Food Division: Food sales in Gladstone increased over the previous

year, though the rise in cost margins did even things out to a degree. Sale numbers are still viewed, however positively.

In regard to the new Gladstone Store, FCL Engineering has completed the pricing for the proposed hybrid store. The project has gone forward to the feasibility for final approval, and it’s hoped that approval to move ahead will happen in the next couple months.

Neepawa grocery sales had a very good sales increase, though the margins were slightly behind last year, but ahead of budget. Expenses were slightly over budget.

The department has followed FCL’s lead on the ban of plastic bags and now offer cardboard boxes to customers for packing. In 2023, electronic shelf labels were also installed to help reduce staff hours needed for pricing.

The Bakery/Deli, Meat and Produce departments all had very good sales increases and good margin and expense controls.

Produce added a new refrigeration table and increased the amount of fresh cut produce. The Valentines display was a great success this past year. The meat departments marketing of the Roe Burgers was a big hit in 2023 and resulted in good sales growth.

Home Centre: Neepawa Home Centre experienced a very busy year with the opening of the newly renovated store. Chalet Carpet is now completely established within the store, as is the new Garden Centre with their partners Parkside Gardens. Sales at the Home Centre were ahead of last year but slightly behind budget.

The grand opening for the new and improved Home Centre was back in May with a large crowd enjoying a meal and touring the new facilities. Several new staff and management were added to ensure continued good customer service.

Gladstone’s farm and building sales were similar to last year, with margins and expenses also similar

to previous years.

Energy Division: Both locations margins were strong throughout the year, but down from the record levels of the previous year. With good expense control, both departments recorded higher profits than budget.

Gladstone received new gas pumps and a new Tesla charging station was installed in Neepawa in 2023.

The Fuel Good Day raised $645,000 across Western Canada to support local charities and nonprofit organizations. This year’s local recipients were Gladstone and Area Senior Support and Habitat for Humanity Neepawa.

Car wash sales were extremely strong due to the amount of rain that occurred especially during the spring. With good expense control, the car wash experienced one of the best years financially.

Bulk Petroleum department litres were stable, while sales were down due to deflated pricing. Margins were strong and expenses were kept in line to provide a better than budget year.

Agro Division: Both Agro’s had a good year for volume, however devaluation in fertilizer and glyphosate pricing affecting sales significantly. Gladstone, however still achieved results better than the previous year but Neepawa was down from budget.

Farm Equipment had one of the best years with strong sales and profitability. Big bin sales and auger sales were also strong throughout the year.

Additions to the Agro’s this year included a new high clearance sprayer, a 25 metric tonne NH3 tridem trailer for field deliveries, several NH3 2400 gal tanks, a dry fertilizer/ seed tridem trailer/semi and new granular 8-tonne

spreaders.

Marketing Division: The marketing department was extremely busy this year with many events. A Brand Day was co-hosted with Heritage, Boundary, Twin Valley and Valleyview Co-ops in Brandon. It was an opportunity to meet people from other Co-ops and socialize with co-team members.

A new Co-op app was launched and members can view the equity statements and update their information. Flyers and coupons can still be viewed on the app as well. Monthly events were hosted for Kids Club like cupcake decorating, colouring contests, and New Years party.

2024 is Neepawa-Gladstone Co-op’s 95th anniversary and there has been lots of fun events going on throughout the year as can be seen on Facebook.

Daniel Heschuk podiums at National Vertical

PICTURE COURTESY OF RACE THE NORTH FACE BRANDON HILLS

Congratulations to NACI alumni Daniel Heschuk (on far right) for finishing in 3rd place in both the National Vertical Marathon, along with Up and Down races, on Oct. 11 to 13 at Mont-Saite-Anne. Known as one of Canada’s largest trail running events, this competition, features a Vertical Ascent (4.5 km, 750m elevation gain) and Classic Up & Down event (10.4 km, 960m elevation gain). With these results, Dan has an opportunity to be selected to represent Canada at the World Championship in Spain in 2025. Congrats to Dan and best of luck.

Beautiful Plains Archives a bastion of rural history

Submitted BP Archives

Beautiful Plains Archives is a rural archive dedicated to preserving the history of the Beautiful Plains area –consisting of the Town of Neepawa, Rural Municipalities of North Cypress-Langford, Glenella-Lansdowne and Rosedale. Our mission is to identify, acquire and preserve material of archival and/or informational value that illustrates the history, growth and development of the region, and to make such material accessible to the public.

Preserving

rural memories

Why a rural archive when the Archives of Manitoba exists to preserve Manitoba’s heritage? The response to this is that the Archives of Manitoba exists to preserve Manitoba’s history; rural archives across the province exist to preserve our local communities’ histories. The detailed history of our communities would be lost in the Provincial Archives.

The value of Manitoba’s rural archives rests in the stories they can tell us about the individuals and families, councils, schools, churches, businesses, service clubs, sports, and more in our communities. These archives preserve memories of fun mischief, sadness and tragedy that make our communities unique.

The Beautiful Plains Archives was established in 2003 and incorporated in 2005. It is a member of the Association of Manitoba Archives (AMA). The Archive is located at 282 Hamilton Street, Neepawa in the Beautiful Plains County Court Building on the lower level, and the office space and two storage rooms are supplied by the Beautiful Plains County Court Building Committee.

third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Beautiful Plains Archives location. If you are interested in attending and need more information, please contact Carol Bray at 204-476-2687 or Norma Forsman at 204841-0409.

and photos of headstones at the Riverside Cemetery in Neepawa. This project began in 2006, when 1012 people transcribed the headstones, and now we have three members of this group that continue to transcribe new headstones on an annual basis, enter the transcriptions and photos into a database which currently holds over 9,000 records. Very soon this database will be available to researchers.

Many community histories included

The Archive is a registered charity and, as such, can issue charitable tax receipts for monetary donations.

Norma Forsman and the Board of Directors, Helen Drysdale, Ernie Gawaziuk, Marjorie Goodwin, and Dennis Ranger manage the Archive. Residents and visitors are welcome to visit Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., or by phoning 1-204-841-0409 or email to bparchive@wcgwave.ca to arrange time for another day.

The Beautiful Plains Archives to date holds many

collections, like school records (attendance registers and yearbooks), I.O.O.F. records, Rotary Club of Neepawa, older tax rolls and assessment records from the Town of Neepawa, RM of Rosedale and RM of Langford, newspapers, photos, family histories, history of prominent and talented individuals, community history books, military, and much more, and welcomes more of the histories of the surrounding communities of Kelwood, Riding Mountain, Birnie, Eden, Mountain Road, Polonia, Elk Ranch, Neepawa, Arden, Keys, Helston, Wellwood, Oberon, Brookdale, Mentmore and Franklin.

The Archive would appreciate the donation of

Neepawa removing trees infected with Dutch Elm

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

The Town of Neepawa is acting against the spread of Dutch Elm Disease before the arrival of winter. This fall, the tree-killing fungus has been identified in 25 trees within the community. That number is lower than what was reported in 2023, as 33 trees had to be taken out last year.

In order to eliminate the disease, Council voted on Tuesday, Oct. 15, to hire Middleton Enterprises to cut down the infected trees. The cost of the removal has been set at $7,400, plus GST. Removal is expected to begin as soon as possible. Each year, in accordance with the Forest Grant Agreement, the province comes into a community and marks any diseased

trees that it finds. The community is then tasked with removal of those trees and is later reimbursed a portion of the cost of that work from the province.

Dutch Elm can be spread through root contact, so these currently ‘healthy’ trees would likely be an issue next year. As well, their removal will break the line of infection, saving large groups of other nearby trees.

items of local historical interest and/or the loan in order to electronically preserve a copy thereof. Records can be textual, photographs, negatives, maps, plans, film, video, sound recordings, books, or publications.

The Beautiful Plains Archives also hosts the Beautiful Plains Family History Group. This group meets the

We welcome and support folks that want to research their families’ histories. The family history group has been in existence since 2004 and has accumulated an ample collection of community history books, obituaries, rural cemeteries transcriptions, school yearbooks, and family histories.

Thousands of records

The main project of this group is the transcription

The Beautiful Plains Archives and Beautiful Plains Family History Group welcomes all visitors, so, please feel free to visit or contact Norma at 204-841-0409 for more information.

“Of all national assets, archives are the most precious. They are the gift of one generation to another and the extent of our care of them marks the extent of our civilization.” –Sir Arthur Doughty, Dominion Archivist, 1924.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BEAUTIFUL PLAINS ARCHIVES

The Beautiful Plains County Court Building in Neepawa, in which the Beautiful Plains Archives resides.

CLASSIFIEDS

TO PLACE AN AD:

Telephone: 204-476-3401 • Email: ads@neepawabanner.com All word classifieds must be prepaid before printing

Tender

Minnedosa Legion Gardens invites tenders for cleaning common areas and hallways in their senior housing building. Deadline to submit tenders is Thursday, October 31, 2024.For information, please contact: Norma @ (204) 867-0305

Personal

Crisis Pregnancy Centre Winnipeg: Need to talk? Call our free help line, 1-800-6650570 or contact our Westman office: 204-727-6161

For Sale or Rent

Storage vans (semi trailers) for rent or sale. Anderson’s 204-385-2685, 204-3852997 Gladstone

For Sale

Oak trees suitable for stove wood. Call 204-841-0843

Small square wheat straw bales. $4 per bale. Minnedosa area. 204-867-2203.

For Rent

Apartment for rent. Bri-Mont apartments, 331 Mountain Avenue. Phone 204-8414419

Rooms for rent $50 - 60 nightly, Heritage home situated in Laurier MB 204-447-3350

Notice

Alanon meetings currently being held at 342 Mountain Ave, Neepawa - Old Co-op Store. Tuesdays at 7 pm. Call 204-841-2192

Obituary

Freda (Mary) Rosa Wills

nee Kulba

June 11, 1922 – October 17, 2024

Freda Wills nee Kulba was born in La Broquerie, Manitoba on June 11, 1922. Her parents were Ukrainian Polish descent.

Freda was 3 years old when the family moved to a farm in the Firdale district. Her father and uncle worked on the railway and farmed. Freda came from a large family of six boys and six girls. She was the only surviving member of her large family.

Freda married Charlie Wills in May of 1947 and from this union 3 children were born: Gerald Wills, Bernice Lupton and Bev Wills. They lived on a farm at Firdale until 1974.

The Beautiful Hills Memorial Park was built on land Charlie and Freda donated. The plaque is still there today. It was such a beautiful setting and was well used at one time.

In 1974 they sold the farm and moved to Carberry. Mom worked at the potato plant for a short stint and worked many years for Lorry Balabanski cleaning rooms at his hotel motel.

Freda had two other partners in her life, one being Nick Balciunas until his passing; then Lefty Tomes for 18 years. The two of them travelled the world with McPhail travel. Lefty passed away in 2010 and life was not so much fun for her anymore. The move to the lodge from her home at age 92 was very hard on her. Due to failing health, she spent one year in Baldur Care Home until she came back to Carberry Personal Care Home.

Freda loved to dress up and wear lots of jewellery. She was quite a classy lady in her going out years. She enjoyed making Ukrainian food and was very good at it. Also loved gardening, watching things grow, loved her flowers and also the enjoyment of her only grandchild Angie Reynolds and husband Troy, and her three great granddaughters Becky, Kaitlyn and Josie.

Freda was predeceased by her parents Mary (Domanski) and Mike Kulba, her husband Charlie Wills, partner Nick Balciunas and her last partner Lefty (Gerald) Tomes and son-in-laws Jim Flannigan and Jack Lupton, her brothers Joe, Steve (Rae), John (Olga), Willie, Peter (Esther), Rudy (Yvonne), her sisters Annie, Nellie (Roy) Fitzsimmons, Janet (Rollie) Huck, Olive Hicken, Marion (Lou) Osipa.

She is survived by her three children Gerald Wills, Bernice Lupton and Bev Wills, grandchildren Angie (Troy) Reynolds, Kim (Steve) Baker, Murray and James Hawkins and their families and great grandchildren Becky (Lloyd), Kaitlyn and Josie, the remaining Balciunas family, Lefty’s sister Doreen Fischer and family and numerous nieces and nephews.

Internment will be at the Carberry Plains Cemetery. A private family burial will be held at a later date. You were our favorite ‘hello’ and our hardest goodbye. Vichnaya Pamyat (memory eternal)

Notice

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings currently being held at 342 Mountain Ave, Neepawa, Thursdays at 7 pm. Call Don 204-856-9072 or Debbi 204352-4065

Arden Hall, cap. 255. Park, camping and sports facilities, rink, curling ice, kitchen and lounge. Call 204-368-2202

Minnedosa Handivan 204868-8164 Mon-Fri 9:00-3:30

Neepawa Banner & Press offers full research and re-print services from our archives that go back to 1896. Additional copies of papers, $2 each depending on availability. Re-print of a page from past copies, $2 per page. Archival research, $25 per hour with a $10 minimum. Individual photos on photo paper $5 depending if we have a suitable original in our digital, print or photo archives. Ken Waddell, publisher

Classified Ad Deadline: Tuesday Noon

• Cancellations and corrections only within business hours and corresponding deadlines

• Please check your ad when first published the Neepawa Banner & Press will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion.

• All copy is subject to approval by the Neepawa Banner & Press.

• We reserve the right to edit copy or to refuse to publish any advertisement we deem illegal, libelous, misleading or offensive

Coming Events

Bus to Sand Hills Casino, Tuesday, October 29. Cost: $25.00. Riders will receive $25. FREE play and a FREE lunch. Call Minnedosa 50+ Activity Centre 204-867-1956 for more information and to register. "Let's Fill That Bus" PICK UP IN NEEPAWA

Minnedosa ALC s November course registrations start Mon. Nov. 4th. Contact Val Gawel in Room 2 of the Minnedosa Collegiate 74 Armitage Ave. Phone: 204867-2519 or email alc@ rrsd.mb.ca

Auctions

Meyers Auctions & Appraisals. Call Brad at 368-2333. www.meyersauctions.com

In Memory

In Loving Memory of Sheldon Driedger

October 24, 2023

Missed every day

Love; Carrie, Kaydence & Makenzie

Thank You

The family of Freda Wills would like to express their sincere gratitude to all the staff at the Carberry Personal Care Home for the many acts of kindness shown to our mother and her family during this difficult week. All the staff were amazing, which made it so much easier for the family. Also for all the acts of kindness, messages of condolences, flowers, food and cards and to the great professionalism of White’s Funeral Home.

A big thank you Sherie Wray for all her kindness and help at this difficult time and any other doctor who cared for our mother.

The Wills family – Gerald Wills, Bernice Lupton, Bev Wills, Angie & Troy Reynolds, Becky (Lloyd), Kaitlyn and Josie

Obituary

Grace Bernice Blair (Sneesby), 91 passed away on October 16, 2024. Born on November 26, 1932 in Neepawa Manitoba, Grace lived a full and giving life from beginning to end and touched the lives of many people along the way.

Grace began her school years in Winchester, Manitoba before moving to Woodside. She took her Commercial High School in Neepawa and then worked with the Manitoba Telephone System in Neepawa and Gladstone where she was Assistant Chief Operator.

Grace Sneesby married Keith Blair of Woodside, Manitoba in 1954. They took up residence and raised five children on the Blair family farm. Life was busy raising children, gardening, farm work and cashing the cream-can check.

Mom dedicated her life to volunteering (most specifically for children), advocacy for those in need and supporting her community.

Mom joined both the Grain and Home Ec 4-H clubs, and as a long time member, won many awards at public speaking, demonstrations and displays. Later as a leader, she received a Certificate of Merit award and became a 4-H achievement judge at the club, district and rally level. Mom was a member and prolific contributor in the Gladstone Agricultural Society, winning the Rose Bowl many times for her entries. She received her accreditation to be a judge for rural agriculture fairs in the Province of Manitoba.

Mom’s many community support roles included costume designer for the local high school musicals and a participant, supporter and helper for the Music and Arts in Gladstone. She also spent many hours organizing the catering of funerals and community social events. She was secretary/treasurer for the Woodside School District and was a collector for the Red Cross which resulted in a Certificate of Merit.

Through her church affiliation, mom wore many hats. She taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible, was a camp councillor and cook. She was a member and treasurer of the Neepawa/Gladstone Christian Women’s Club.

Mom was a member of the Gladstone Advisory Committee to determine programming for women in the Gladstone Agricultural District. A highlight was being nominated by the Manitoba Farm Women’s Network and to be included in their book profiling Manitoba Women in Agriculture.

Mom was instrumental in fund-raising for the Gladstone community hall. She served as a secretary, organized events and did just whatever was needed. In 2011, mom was awarded the Austin Credit Union Citizen of the Year award.

Mom’s career of advocacy and helping others began when her sister was paralyzed from polio and she was given the task of caring for her. Bullying even existed in those days and mom became a scrapper. She received the

Carberry United Church Fall Supper

$20 Per Person

Roast Beef Supper with sides and dessert November 3, 2024 Eat in at 5:15 pm 608 Third Ave. Carberry, MB.

Obituary

Thomas Kucharski

September 16, 1953October 14, 2024 Age 71

We give thanks for the life of Ken Kucharski. Ken was born at Neepawa to the late Stan and Nellie Kuharski. He was the fourth child of a family of eight children. Ken resided in the Carberry Plains Lodge at the time of his death. Left to mourn his passing are his son Eric Kucharski (Danielle), grandsons Nikkos, Bentley, Tripp, and Khai; his brother Leonard (Robin), sisters Marilyn North, Diane Smith (Ron), Joanne Mitchell, Karen Dickson (Bill), Linda Birch (Leonard), Patricia Dickson (Don) and numerous nieces and nephews and many close friends. Ken was predeceased by his parents Stanley (1989) and Nellie (2008) and will be laid to rest at his parent’s side at the Riverside Cemetery in Neepawa, MB.

A private family graveside service will be held Friday, October 25, 2024, at the Riverside Cemetery, followed by an open Celebration of Life at the Carberry Legion, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Eaton’s Good Deed Club Award for the care of her sister. Mom’s concern for children prompted her to join the Gladstone Royal Purple No. 119 MB, in 1953. Over the years she participated in and chaired many committees, and many time held offices at the local, district and provincial level. All of this devoted work culminated in 1995 with her being elected to the highest Office of the Royal Purple, Supreme Honoured Royal Lady, National President. This role saw her travel all across Canada in her endeavour to promote her theme “Charity”. She thought of charity as being a state of mind where you are unselfish and give freely of your time, friendship and loyalty to each other.

Charity begins at home, and Mom has left a legacy of five children, twelve grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren in which she has passed on her recipes for a healthy life style. A key motto was to keep her children busy involved in the community and volunteer work. Family was important to Mom and as a grandma, she passed on her talents and a wealth of experiences, most of all, how to have empathy and to advocate for others.

She demonstrated her strength by surviving polio, asthma, and near-death bouts of COVID. Her zest for life was demonstrated by continually learning and adapting to her changing world. At ninety years old she published a children’s book dedicated to a lonely child.

Mom will be lovingly remembered for her quick wit and dry sense of humour. She often used to say regarding her children, ‘they were fine when they left home’.

She was a great debater who did not ‘suffer fools lightly’ and yet always kept an open mind.

Predeceased by:

Husband: Keith Robertson Blair

Parents: Albert and Jean Sneesby

Brothers: Charles (Jean), Arthur, Argyle (Bessie), Bruce, Augus (Lori)

Sisters: Thelma Andersen, Barbara (Mervyn) Kelly, Beatrice, Darlene, Doris (Lorne) Buchanan, Phyllis Walker

Sister-in-law: Jackie Sneesby

Survived by: brother Gerald, sister-in-law Elma, and brother-in-law Hans Andersen

Her children: Hugh (Louise), Robert (Shirley), Deborah (Lorne) Rossnagel , Cindy (Robert) Adamson, and Pearl (Robert) Morris

Grandchildren: John (Heather), Kristine (Graham), Tracy (Dan), Jenna (Justin), Alyssa (Nils), Andrea (Trevor), Aaron (Natasha), Blair (Crystal), Lori (Jamie), Jody (Cory), Alexander (Emma), and Heather (Sam)

As well as 18 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life was held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at Gladstone United Church with Rita Friesen officiating. Interment took place at Evergreen Memorial Gardens in Portage la Prairie. Clarke’s Funeral Home Gladstone/MacGregor in care of arrangements. www.clarkesfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers and cards, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Friends and family are invited to visit Ken’s memorial page at www.interlakecremation.ca, where memories and condolences may be shared.

Arrangements entrusted to: Interlake Cremation & Memorial Services

Erna Mitchler With a firm confidence in the faithfulness of God, Erna Mitchler, formerly of Waldersee, Manitoba died peacefully on October 16, 2024 at Country Meadows Personal Care Home in Neepawa.

Erna, one of fourteen children born to her parents, Bernhard and Elizabeth Single, was born on May 5, 1926 in the Waldersee community where she would spend most of her life. In the last number of years at Country Meadows she lived among friends she knew for a long time. At one point there were eight residents who for many years had lived within a radius of three miles of one another. This was counted as an enormous blessing. On May 5th she was grateful for having been granted 98 years. Erna is predeceased by her dearly loved husband, George; her parents: Bernhard and Elizabeth Single; siblings: Wilhelmina, John, Kay, William, Louise, Reinhold, Martha, Lydia, Elsie, Adeline, Eleonor and Edward.

Mourning her passing from their midst is her one remaining sibling, Alfred; her sons: Ken (Dianne), Ed (Terri), Harold (Charlene), Dennis, Ron (Lise); grandchildren: Kimberley, Rick (Sherrie), Jill (Nikos), Brie (Matt), Jennifer (Clinton), Jason (Kara), Janelle (Will), Jolene, Mackenzie, Xander; great-grandchildren: Kaylee (Mateo), Chase, Grace, Bryden, Aurelia, Anwen, Scarlett, Robyn, Anthony, Emery, Elaina, Natalia, Hunter, Bennett, Ethan, Adam, Noah, Zoey; and many relatives and friends.

Special appreciation is offered to the staff of Country Meadows PCH and especially to all the D-wing staff. Appreciation is also expressed to Dr. Wareham and Dr. Milligan who cared for Erna with professionalism and kindness over the years.

Funeral service will be held at Christ Lutheran Church Waldersee, Manitoba on Monday, October 21 at 2:00 PM with viewing prior to the worship service.

If friends so desire, gifts may be made to Country Meadows PCH Neepawa, Manitoba in remembrance of Erna.

With thanksgiving - glory be to God.

Clarke’s Funeral Home Gladstone ~ MacGregor in care of arrangements. www.clarkesfuneralhome.com

Kenneth

Grace Bernice Blair (Sneesby)

PROTECT YOUR BREATH

Breathing easy starts with taking the right steps

Protect your lungs from seasonal threats to keeP them strong and healthy this season talk to your doctor or Pharmacist today about seasonal immunization

Rolling River School Division

invites applications for CLEANERS

Provide custodial services to ensure effective physical operation and a positive physical environment through cleanliness of assigned School Division building.

Permanent - 12 months per year

Monday to Friday

School

NOTICES

Hours per Day

Elton Collegiate, Forrest, MB 7 hours per day • 2:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Tanners Crossing Elementary, Minnedosa, MB 8 hours per day • 3:00 pm - 11:30 pm

Erickson Elementary, Erickson, NB 4 hours per day • 3:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Rate of Pay as per CUPE Collective Agreement (currently $18.52 per hour)

Benefits package

For more details and application information, please visit our website at www.rrsd.mb.ca, select Employment link, then Support Positions link. AD PROOF & ESTIMATE

Protectyourbreath.ca

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Manitoba Community Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.mcna.com.

Insurance Specialists

Competition: #2024-25-12

Locations: Neepawa, Headingley & Morden

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 $35.00 + GST/HST. Call MCNA (204) 947-1691 for more information. See www.mcna.com under the “Types of Advertising” tab for more details.

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS ADS NOW! Do you take online orders in your business? Let us help you advertise it

Help Wanted

Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) has an exciting opportunity for you to be a part of a team that values building relationships, enables change, and supports the agriculture industry in Manitoba. Come join our team as we offer an engaging work environment, competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package (including pension plan), and we encourage a healthy work-life balance.

Reporting to the Senior Insurance Specialist, the Insurance Specialist is responsible for providing a high level of personalized customer service to Manitoba producers. The successful candidate will be the insurance expert for the service centre team. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring that MASC’s insurance products are administered effectively and resolving client issues. You will also be responsible for planning and implementing the insurance-related goals and targets as part of the service centre and divisional strategic plans.

MASC values excellence, integrity, and accountability. We strive to enhance existing products and develop new products, transform service delivery to enrich the client experience, pursue customer driven organizational change, and maximize performance, engagement, and development of all employees.

MASC has five core competencies: communication, decision making, initiative & innovation, leadership, and organization. Competencies relate to every position at MASC and along with the technical requirements, are included in the qualifications for all positions at MASC.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Post-secondary education in agriculture and related experience or an equivalent combination of related education and experience may be considered.

• Experience providing a high level of customer service.

• Experience interpreting and applying regulations, contracts, policies, and procedures.

• Experience in the agricultural industry.

• Knowledge in sales and marketing.

• Knowledge of agricultural insurance.

• Ability to use Microsoft products (SharePoint, OneDrive, Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) in a cloud-based environment.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bilingualism is considered an asset

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Must be legally entitled to work in Canada.

• Must possess a valid driver’s licence, access to a vehicle and the ability to travel within the Province of Manitoba.

*Please indicate in your application which location you are applying for (Neepawa, Headingley or Morden).

SALARY:

$65,307 to $ 78,395 per annum

CLOSING DATE: October 28, 2024

COMPETITION: #2024-25-12

APPLY IN WRITING TO: MASC – Human Resources

Unit 100 – 1525 First Street S. Brandon, MB R7A 7A1

E-mail: hr@masc.mb.ca

We believe diversity strengthens our ability to provide excellent customer service in a positive work environment. We encourage all to apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228 www. firstandsecondmortgages.ca

from November on! Now booking advertising for the remainder of 2024. Plan your success! Have your blanket classified ads seen in the 31 Member Newspapers which are seen in over 368,000+ homes in Manitoba. Please Call THIS NEWSPAPER NOW to book, or call MCNA at (204) 947-1691 for more details or to book ads. MCNAManitoba Community Newspapers Association. www. mcna.com

Help Wanted

WATER AND WASTEWATER OPERATOR

Full-time, 1 Year Term, with possible extension to permanent full-time status.

Grade 12, GED/Mature High School Diploma. Class 5 Drivers License.

Class 1, 2 or 3 Water Treatment Certification preferred...but willing to train eager individuals to obtain required certifications. Individuals must be able to work some flexible shift work.

This position is 40 hours per week Monday to Friday and offered in accordance with CUPE Local 1735 -01. Starting rate of pay: (2024) $25.23

Applications, including Resume, accepted until 4:00 p.m. Monday, Nov 4, 2024 @ Town of Neepawa, P.O. Box 339, 275 Hamilton St., Neepawa, MB, R0J 1H0 E-Mail: operations@neepawa.ca

Visit www.neepawa.ca for more details.

Municipality of WestLake-Gladstone Employment Opportunity

Receptionist (Administrative Assistant)

One Month Term - Casual Position

The Municipality is currently looking for a suitable candidate to fill a one-month term for the Receptionist position. Upon completion of the term the employee would remain on staff as a casual employee on an if, and when needed basis.

The Receptionist provides backup clerical and administrative support to the Municipality. Under the supervision and direction of CAO, the Receptionist will provide support in a variety of tasks involving day-to-day business operations of the Municipality, to both customers and co-workers.

Responsibilities include front-line customer reception, answering telephone inquiries, accepting payments, data entry, processing mail, preparing tax certificates, maintaining and ordering office supplies,

Qualified Candidates will have related office experience, proficient computer skills, excellent interpersonal & communication skills, effective problem solving& decision-making skills and possess strong customer service skills. Experience in accounting software would be an asset.

COMMENTS:

This unionized position is being advertised until the position is filled. Interested individuals are to include their resume and cover letter listing how they meet the requirements of the position.

Resumes/applications are to be submitted to: info@ westlake-gladstone.ca. Wage range is $21.25 to $22.15 based on qualifications and experience.

Term position to commence in early November.

A copy of the job description can be requested at the Municipal Office or by emailing info@westlake-gladstone.ca

The Municipality of Westlake-Gladstone is an equal opportunity employer, committed to providing an inclusive work environment. Applications who require accommodation during the hiring process are encouraged to contact the Municipality Office via the information provided. Thank you to all who apply, however, only those candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation

Help Wanted Help Wanted

FOODS

Industrial Plant Cleaner (NOC 65312)

Why join our team?

HyLife is a global leader in food processing, with a vision to be the best food company in the world. To achieve this, we are currently expanding our team and have exciting career opportunities at 623 Main St. Neepawa, MB. We are actively seeking to fill 10 positions.

The current starting wage is $22.20/hour with incremental increases to $23.55/hour based on tenure as per our Collective Agreement

Quick Facts:

• Culturally diverse – employ people from all over the world

• Fully integrated facility –Feed Mills, Barns, Transportation, and Production Plant

• 2500+ employees worldwide

We Care about our employees, communities, customers, animals, and our environment

What we can offer you:

Competitive Wage

Vacation: 10 working days of paid vacation as per our collective bargaining agreement

• Comprehensive Benefits package – health coverage, dental plan, vision care, long-term disability, and pension plan

• Permanent full-time employment (74-80 hours per bi-weekly)

• PM Shift

• Full training, with genuine opportunities for career progression

• Employee Referral program - $500!

• Free parking

• Company events

• And more!!!!

Your duties may include:

• Cleaning and sanitizing butcher and slaughter production areas and everything in between to ensure top-quality food safety standards.

Operating cleaning equipment like high-pressure hoses to clean production equipment.

• Using cleaning chemicals with respect and following Material Safety Data Sheets.

• Ensuring all Quality Assurance checks are performed.

• Maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work area throughout the facility.

• Collaborating as a team to meet tight deadlines, ensuring production floors operate on time.

We are looking for people who are:

• Fit and capable of working in a physically demanding role. Capable of bending, lifting, and climbing.

• Available to work an 8-hour Night Shift from MondayFriday, between 11:15 PM to 9:00 AM

• Capable of repetitive manual tasks and standing for long periods of time

• Capable of working in diverse environments, including exposure to varying temperatures, humidity, and odors

• Minimum of one (1) to seven (7) months experience in sanitation, or industrial cleaning, or heavy-duty cleaning Completion of Secondary school or equivalent experience

• Able to effectively communicate in English

• At least 18 years old to meet the minimum age requirement

HyLife is dedicated to promoting equal employment opportunities for all job applicants, including those who identify as a member of the following groups: Indigenous people, Newcomers to Canada, Older workers, Veterans, and Visible minorities.

Ways to apply:

Online at http://hylife.com/careers/ or mail to PO Box 10,000, 623 Main St E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0. Fax to: 204.476.3791 | Email to: jobs@hylife.com | In Person at 623 Main ST. E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0

For inquiries contact: Phone: 204.476.3393

H yL ife has an accommodation process for employees with disabilities. If you require a specific accommodation during your employment because of a disability, please contact Jobs@hylife.com. An HR representative will be in touch with you as soon as possible. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis and our accommodation policy can be forwarded upon request.

Be a part of the HyLife experience – your journey starts here!

We thank all applicants, however, only those under consideration will be contacted

FOODS

Industrial Butcher (NOC 94141)

Why join our team?

HyLife is a global leader in food processing, with a vision to be the best food company in the world. To achieve this, we are currently expanding our team and have exciting career opportunities at 623 Main St. Neepawa, MB. We are actively seeking to fill 150 positions.

The current starting wage is $16.45/hour with incremental increases to $24.60/hour based on tenure as per our Collective Agreement

Quick Facts:

• Culturally diverse – employ people from all over the world

• Fully integrated facility –Feed Mills, Barns, Transportation, and Production Plant

• 2500+ employees worldwide

We Care about our employees, communities, customers, animals, and our environment

What we can offer you:

Competitive Wage

• Vacation: 10 working days of paid vacation as per our collective bargaining agreement

• Comprehensive Benefits package – health coverage, dental plan, vision care, long-term disability, and pension plan

• Permanent full-time employment (74-80 hours per bi-weekly)

• PM Shift Premium

• Full training, with genuine opportunities for career progression

• Employee Referral program - $500!

• Free parking

• Company events

• And more!!!!

Your duties may include:

• Slaughter, eviscerate, and mark hogs for further processing;

• Debone edible parts and remove inedible organs for parts;

Cut pork carcasses into primal cuts for further processing, cutting, or packaging for local, national, and international premium markets.

We are looking for people who are:

• Fit and capable of working in a physically demanding role

• Capable of repetitive manual tasks and standing for long periods of time

• Open to working in colder/warmer environments

• Minimum of one (1) to seven (7) months experience in meat cutting or slaughter or completed a program in Industrial Meat cutting

• Completion of Secondary school or equivalent experience

• Able to effectively communicate in English

HyLife is dedicated to promoting equal employment opportunities for all job applicants, including those who identify as a member of the following groups: Indigenous people, Newcomers to Canada, Older workers, Veterans, and Visible minorities.

Ways to apply:

Online at http://hylife.com/careers/ or mail to PO Box 10,000, 623 Main St E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0. Fax to: 204.476.3791 | Email to: jobs@hylife.com | In Person at 623 Main ST. E, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0 For inquiries contact: Phone: 204.476.3393

HyLife has an accommodation process for employees with disabilities. If you require a specific accommodation during your employment because of a disability, please contact Jobs@hylife.com. An HR representative will be in touch with you as soon as possible. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis and our accommodation policy can be forwarded upon request.

Be a part of the HyLife experience – your journey starts here!

We thank all applicants, however, only those under consideration will be contacted

PINE CREEK SCHOOL DIVISION

Position: South Itinerant Teacher Assignment: 1.0 FTE, Term

School: Austin, MacGregor, Colony Schools

Start Date: Immediately or mutually agreed upon

Position: K-8 Teacher Assignment: 1.0 FTE, Term

School: Muller School (Bloomfield Colony)

Start Date: Immediately or mutually agreed upon

Position: Assistant Mechanic Assignment: Permanent, 7.5 hrs/day

Location: PCSD Transportation - Austin, MB

Start Date: Immediately or mutually agreed upon

Interested candidates are to submit a cover letter and resume, along with three (3) references by email to:

Human Resources Pine Creek School Division Box 420 Gladstone, MB R0J 0T0

Email: hr@pcsdonline.ca

Posting will remain open until filled.

The Town of Neepawa has issued a Request for Quote for a CAMPGROUND MANAGER

Reporting to the Manager of Operations, the Campground Manager is responsible for customer service, overseeing the daily operations, bookings, grounds maintenance etc of Neepawa’s Riverbend Campground for the 2025 Camping Season.

The Manager(s) are to be on site everyday, and a lot will be provided for camper or tent.

For further details, please visit: www.neepawa.ca/employmentopportunities-2/ to download a copy of the Package; or request a copy in person at the Town Office or by calling 204-476-7600.

RFQ Deadline is November 12, 2024 at 3:30 pm.; all packages are to be delivered to the Town of Neepawa 275 Hamilton St or emailed to: recreation@neepawa..ca

Visit www.neepawa.ca for more details.

Birnie Builders

Tender

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION

SALE OF LANDS FOR ARREARS OF TAXES MUNICIPALITY OF MCCREARY

Pursuant to subsection 367(7) of The Municipal Act, notice is hereby given that unless the tax arrears for the designated year and costs in respect of the hereinafter described properties are paid in full to the Municipality prior to the commencement of the auction, the Municipality will on the 12th day of November, 2024, at the hour of 02:00 PM, at Municipality of McCreary, 432 First Avenue, McCreary, MB, proceed to sell by public auction the following described properties:

Arrears &

Rolling River School Division

Board of Trustees invites interested individuals to present their views on educational and budget priorities for the Board of Trustees to consider in setting the 2025-2026 budget. How to provide input:

• Send a written submission for the Board’s review.

• Make a presentation at a Board meeting.

• Visit the school division website, rrsd.mb.ca (click on the Budget Input link)

TURTLE RIVER SCHOOL DIVISION

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 MCCREARY 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 25th day of September, 2024.

Managed by:

Lorilee Ryzner

Chief Administrative Officer

MUNICIPALITY OF MCCREARY

Phone: (204) 835-2309

Fax: (204) 835-2649

class actions for the recovery of Children’s Special Allowances

If you were a provincially funded child in the care of a Child and Family Services Agency in Manitoba at any time between January 1, 2005, and March 31, 2019, your legal rights may be affected. Please read this Notice carefully.

SETTLEMENT

On September 5, 2024, the Manitoba Court of King’s Bench approved a settlement between the Government of Manitoba (“Manitoba”) and Class Members.

The Settlement is in respect of Manitoba’s actions and policies relating to the administration of Children’s Special Allowance Benefits (“CSA Benefits”) paid for children in the care of Child and Family Services Agencies in Manitoba (the “CFS Agencies”), except the Metis Child, Family and Community Services Agency Inc. and Michif Child and Family Services Inc. (the “Métis Agencies”) between January 1, 2005 and March 31, 2019, inclusive (the “Flette/Lavallee Class Actions”). There is a separate but related class proceeding dealing with Manitoba’s actions and policies relating to the administration of CSA Benefits paid for children in the care of the Metis Agencies over that same period of time (the “Lafontaine Class Action”). For more information about the Lafontaine Class Action please call 1-877-835-4546 or visit www.metiscsaclassaction.ca.

As part of the Settlement, Manitoba will pay $445,200,000 to the Class with a portion of those funds to be used to pay legal fees, the costs of administering the Settlement, and for a charitable purpose of any funds remain after eligible claims are paid. The Settlement Approval Hearing took place on September 5, 2024 at the Manitoba Court of King’s Bench in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Because payments under the Settlement Agreement will be based on the number of people who come forward to make claims, it is not possible to estimate the amounts that Eligible Claimants may receive.

MAKING A CLAIM

The Claims Period starts on January 6, 2025 and ends on January 5, 2027. If you are a Class Member, a legal guardian of a Class Member, or a person legally responsible for the estate of a Class Member, then you can make a claim for individual compensation within the Claims Period.

Individual compensation amounts will be calculated based on the length of time, and when, the Class Member was in the care of a CFS Agency between January 1, 2005 and March 31, 2019. To receive an individual compensation amount, a Claims Registration Form must be submitted to the Claims Administrator, along with necessary supporting documents. If a Claims Registration Form is not properly completed and submitted before January 5, 2027, then the Class Member may not be able to participate in or share in the benefits available under the Settlement.

A detailed instruction package on how to obtain, complete, and submit a Claims Registration Form is available from the Claims Administrator, Exchange Solutions Inc., using the contact information below.

LEGAL FEES

At a hearing on a date to be determined by the Court, Class Counsel, Several Indigenous CFS Authorities and Agencies, as well as the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, will seek Court approval that a portion of the Settlement Funds be used to pay the legal fees, disbursements and applicable taxes relating to the prosecution of the Flette/Lavallee Class Actions.

LEARNING MORE

The Court office will not be able to answer questions about the matters in this Notice. If you have any questions regarding the Settlement Agreement or making a Claim, information is available by contacting the Claims Administrator (Exchange Solutions Inc.) at:

Mail: 1 – 554 St. Mary’s Road, Winnipeg, MB R2M 3L5

Fax: 204-957-5195

E-mail: Claims@CSASettlement.com or Questions@CSASettlement.com.

Telephone: 1-204-947-7101 or 1-844-947-7101

Forward a written submission or a request to make a presentation at a Board meeting to the attention of:

Rolling River School Division c/o Kathlyn McNabb, Secretary-Treasurer Box 1170 Minnedosa, MB R0J 1E0 kmcnabb@rrsd.mb.ca

MORTGAGE SALE

The land and building known as 1000 Burrows Road N., McCreary, Manitoba as described in Certificate of Title No. 2789861/5 will be sold at auction on Wednesday, the 20th day of November, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. The auction sale will be held by way of video or teleconference. There will be no in-person attendees at the auction.

In order to participate in the auction sale, you must pre-register at least 24 hours prior to the auction by contacting Sonia at 204-957-6437 or by email at sruppel@ltglc.ca.

The Vendor is informed that there is situated on the property a single-family detached bungalow of approximately 1,100 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, dining room, kitchen, full partially finished basement with hobby room, rec room and utility room. There is a paved driveway for parking.

TERMS: Deposit of $11,800.00 by certified cheque, bank/credit union draft or solicitor’s trust cheque to Levene Tadman Golub Law Corporation, or cash (the cash component of the deposit not to exceed $7,500.00) to be provided within 24 hours of the date and time of auction and the balance in accordance with the conditions to be announced at sale.

The Property is sold subject to a RESERVE BID of $75,279.65 plus such other additional and incidental costs which may be incurred by the Lender from the 16th day of October, 2024 to the date of auction and which costs will be announced prior to the commencement of the Sale.

Property Taxes are paid to December 31, 2024.

Purchaser to be responsible for payment of any outstanding water accounts owing by the Mortgagor.

Property is subject to Nil.

The auction sale will be conducted pursuant to an Order for Sale issued by the District Registrar. Certain parties may be prohibited from purchasing the property, including but not limited to, parties who by virtue of their employment or relationship to a person involved in the sale process would have special knowledge of the circumstances pertaining to the sale. For more information and a list of prohibited purchasers please visit: www.teranetmanitoba.ca

2024/2025

Snow Removal Tenders

Turtle River School Division invites tenders for Snow Removal at the following locations: Alonsa School • McCreary School Ecole Laurier • McCreary Bus Garage Glenella School • Ste. Rose School

Please tender separately for each location. Tenders are to be on a per hour basis, complete with specifications of snow removal equipment and their individual per hour rate. The lowest, or any tender not necessarily accepted.

Please mark submitted tenders SNOW REMOVAL TENDER. Sealed submissions will be accepted by the undersigned until 12:00 noon November 4th, 2024. Please send Snow Removal Tender submissions to: Stephen Oversby Maintenance Supervisor Turtle River School Division Box 309 McCreary, Manitoba R0J 1B0

Phone: (204) 835-2067 (Extension 213) Fax: (204) 835-2426 soversby@trsd.ca

Did you know that we do CUSTOM LABELS?

For your business or home With custom shapes, every shape is a standard shape! Matte, gloss, clear, poly, silver or florescent colours

Removable or permanent

Further information and copies of Conditions of Sale may be obtained from:

Come see us to find out how custom labels can make your life easier 423 Mountain Ave., Neepawa 204-476-3401

ads@neepawabanner.com

LEVENE TADMAN GOLUB LAW CORPORATION

Barristers & Solicitors

700 - 330 St. Mary Avenue Winnipeg, MB. R3C 3Z5

Attention: Mara Koven-Lapointe/Sonia File No. 125563 Phone No. 204-957-6437

Neepawa Rotary supports Touchwood Park

Rotary president, Ron Nordstrom, presented a cheque for $3000 to Holly Pankartz of Touchwood Park on October 9. The money is in support of the new accessible playground Touchwood has recently installed.

RCMP provide update on rural break-ins

By Sgt. David Taggart Spruce Plains RCMP

In the last few weeks, we have had 11 Break and Enter and Thefts in the Rural Municipalities of Glenella-Lansdowne and Westlake-Gladstone. These thefts were targeted towards trucks, ATV’s and UTV’s, firearms and tools.

There were six trucks stolen, three were recovered, seven ATV’s and UTV’s stolen, four were recovered, and two firearms stolen. In some of these vehicle thefts, the keys were left in them.

There are some safety precautions that may help protect your property or help recover it. Please lock your properties

up at night and do not leave your keys or valuables in the vehicles. Good lighting or motion sensor lighting on your property. Vehicles with OnStar have GPS tracking capability. Apple AirTags are small devices that can help you locate your belongings using the Find My App on an apple device. They emit a Bluetooth signal that connects to any device in the Find My Network, and then their location is triangulated and sent back to your Iphone.

The Spruce Plains RCMP are taking these property crimes very seriously. We are committed to the prevention and reduction of crime in our area. These investigations are still ongoing.

Kaleidoscope gears up for November

Submitted Kaleidoscope

The 2024-2025 Kaleidoscope concert series kicks off on November 1st with Dean Jenkinson, an award-winning comedian and comedy writer from Winnipeg.

Dean’s family-friendly brand of humour has been featured on Comedy Now, The Winnipeg Comedy Festival, The Royal Canadian Air Farce, Laugh Out Loud, and more than 20 times on CBC Radio’s smash hit, The Debaters.

In addition to his standup comedy performances, Dean is a sought-after contributing writer for This Hour Has 22 Minutes, Just For Laughs, as well as The Muppets, Joan Rivers, Neil Patrick Harris, Sarah Silverman, and cast mem-

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Dean Jenkinson.

bers from The Big Bang Theory.

Dean will be at Arts Forward, Nov.1, 2024 at 7:30 pm. Beverages will be available for purchase. This event is made possible by the generous sponsorship of Gill and Schmall Agencies, as well as a grant from the Manitoba Arts Council. Don’t miss

this family-friendly standup comedy performance which promises hilarously relatable stories, satirical commentary on current affairs, and maybe even a song or two!

Also – Planning a Christmas party for your office or group of friends?

Mark your calendars for Saturday, Dec. 14 when Kaleidoscope will present award-winning singer Emma Peterson and her three-piece band– the perfect holiday event for your group. Stayed tuned for details in a future issue of the Neepawa Banner & Press.

Send your historic photos to the Banner & Press via news@neepawabanner.com or our Facebook page!

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Minnedosa restaurant celebrates ninth anniversary

PHOTO BY JOHN DRINKWATER

RD’s on Main, located in Minnedosa, celebrated it’s ninth anniversary on Oct. 16. During the celebration, the restaurant also held a fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House. Through this, a total of $1,500 was able to be presented.

Wendy Galagan (CEO of Ronald McDonald House Chairties Manitoba),

and

and

Mishra.

A full house at Arden

The Arden Community Hall saw quite the attendance on Oct. 6! This was for the Fall Supper held that day from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. All were treated to turkey, potatoes, salads, desserts and more.

Proceeds from the admission of this event were also a fundraiser for the Lansdowne Rec committee for the purpose of the hall’s maintenance.

Helping hands at the Winter Park

Hard work– and some fun, too– was had at the Winter Park recently. First, these extra set of hands proved to be more than welcome after the area’s recent wind storm. While the Langford Recreational Trail Committee does a lot of work to keep things cleared, it’s nice to know that some local youngsters such as Rosie Lynn, Robbie and Rachel Davidson (pictured above) took some time to help clear some of the debris. The next task was preparing the stocks of fire wood! On the scene to help were a pair of youth, who had fun climbing inside the lumber totes and helping to stock up the firewood. The totes of lumber ends/scraps themseles had been donated by Stella Jones.

PHOTO BY DIANE WARNER

Pictured:

Dan Mazier (MP)

RD’s on Main owners Rajesh

Deepmala