December 20, 2024 - Neepawa Banner & Press (A. Section)

PHOTOS BY CASPER WEHRHAHN

Special delivery just in time for Christmas Truckloads of donations dropped off to Neepawa Food Bank

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

‘Santa’s helpers’ recently delivered a huge gift to the Salvation Army Neepawa Community Services Food Bank and they delivered it in style. Instead of the standard sleigh, they arrived in a pair of four wheel drive turbo-charged chariots.

On Friday, Dec. 13, Dealer Principal Ryan McLaughlin, along with staff from McLaughlin Chevrolet Buick GMC, dropped off two truckloads of donations to our local Food Bank. The contributions consisted of a mix of toys for families this Christmas, as well as a huge amount of the day-to-day necessities, such as canned goods and household items.

Ryan McLaughlin told the Banner & Press that while this fundraising effort was started by the local vehicle dealership, its success extended to the entire community.

“This result wasn’t just McLaughlin. We put the idea out there for the campaign, but we wanted to take it one step further, so we got the word out through [the Neepawa & District Chamber of Commerce]. The chamber then dispersed the message to all

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Amanda Naughton-Gale of the Salvation Army Neepawa Community Services Food Bank accepts the donations dropped off by Ryan McLaughlin of McLaughlin Chevrolet Buick GMC on Friday, Dec. 13. The automotive dealership, with assistance from the Chamber of Commerce, other local businesses and several individuals, recently organized a fundraising campaign for the Food Bank.

the members, and then the members, and even nonmembers reached out to us on this asking to help. So in true form, this really was a complete community event,” said McLaughlin. “Everybody else really chipped in.”

As well, McLaughlin said that many customers saw what they were trying to do and immediately wanted to assist. He cited one example of a gentleman from Austin, who returned to the dealership with a few bags and boxes

full of groceries and toys.

“We had people that were customers, and even non-customers just come in and say, ‘Can we drop off some donations here?’ So, it was really through the whole community that the word of mouth spread, and that’s why it was successful.”

Completely amazing

Community Ministries

Director Amanda Naughton-Gale was thankful to Ryan, his team at Mc -

Laughlin Chevrolet Buick GMC and the entire community at large for this tremendous support.

“This is completely amazing,” stated Naughton-Gale. “This has been a Christmas season like no other. There are about 187 families on our [support] list this year and nearly 300 kids. So, just a huge thank you to Ryan and everybody who could donate, whether that was their time, or money or an item. We so appreciate it and I know the families we try to assist will

Pyramid Collision Center would like to thank new and loyal customers for their trust (and patience!) over the past year.

We appreciate the opportunity to continue serving Neepawa and the extended area for MPI accredited auto body repairs.

We hope everyone has a safe & wonderful holiday season.

December 23: 8:00-5:30 • December 24: 8:00-2:00 December 25-January 1: CLOSED January 2: 8:00-5:30 • January 3: 8:00-noon

to be able to do this again, even bigger and better in 2025.

“Everybody, in one way, shape or form, stepped up and we were able to fill two trucks this year. I want to do four trucks next year. We’ll see what we can do to start the campaign a little bit earlier, and people will see what kind of impact it has,”

really appreciate it as well.”

In conclusion, Ryan McLaughlin said they hope

While the support at the end of the year, is amazing, the spirit of generosity doesn’t have to be just a Christmas thing. Donations to the Food Bank will be gladly accepted at any time, and not just non-perishable food items. Groceries such as paper towels, toilet paper, diaper and cleaning products would also aid Salvation Army Neepawa Community Services support efforts.

The Rotary Club of Neepawa would like to thank the many businesses and individuals who donated cash or items to contribute to the success of our online auction.

Much of the funds raised will be redistributed within the community.

We also wish to thank the many individuals who participated in the bidding process. A successful auction has many people bidding on each item. Your participation has helped to make this a successful fundraiser.

Thank you also to those who attempted but were unsuccessful at logging on to our auction site. We aim to have those technical issues resolved for next year’s auction.

PHOTO BY EOIN DEVEREUX

PHOTOS BY EOIN DEVEREUX

McLaughlin and several employees of the auto dealership, unload the two full size trucks worth of donations gathered recently.

1974: Local family preps horse for harness racing

By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press

125 years ago, Wednesday, December 20, 1899

Arden: The Independent Order of Foresters initiated seven new members this month. The order meets the second and last Tuesday in each month in the hall over McCamis & Boughton’s store.

100 years ago, Friday, December 19, 1924

Arden: The second lot of picture slides have arrived in the district. Over a hundred beautifully colored slides illustrating conditions among the Atlantic to the Pacific. These pictures were to be shown Thursday night of this week at Salisbury and Friday evening at Glenholm. Further announcements as to when they will be shown in Arden.

Norgate: We are glad to note that the directors of Kelwood agricultural society have decided to continue the fall fair. What would a summer fair amount to without the display of vegetables usually shown at the fall fair?

The co-operative poultry association branch of Foxwarren shipped their first carload of poultry last Tuesday. Sixty members contributed poultry amounting to over two thousand birds, averaging seven pounds apiece.

75 years ago, Thursday, December 15, 1949

A Neepawa mother returned home from work

Brookdale: The marriage took place in Winnipeg on Dec. 10, by the Rev. G. A. Matheson, of Olive May, youngest daughter of the late Thos. Gowan and Mrs. Gowan of Brookdale, to Archie McLean, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Hallam. Sr., of Moore Park.

Power & Equipment was selling these smaller model tractors with chains and snow blowers for yard work in December of 1974.

at noon Friday, Dec. 9, to watch firemen battling a blaze which gutted her tiny two-room frame dwelling at the foot of Hamilton Street.

Mrs. Violet Pittman, mother of three, lost all her belongings, including a new coat, in the fire. Her children, Lorne, 12; Cecil, 10; and Betty, 8; arrived home from school for dinner to find a smoking shell that was once their home.

The fire is believed to have started in wood stored behind the kitchen stove.

A three-year business partnership is soon to be dissolved.

Sam Levine, co-owner of the Economy Store in Neepawa, wishes to be with his family in Winnipeg, where he has liquidated his interest in the business.

Operation of the store will be carried on by Al Schulman, who with Mr. Levine took over the Economy Store three years ago.

50 years ago, Thursday, December 19, 1974

Harness racing, once extremely popular in this area, has pretty well died out, but there are signs that it may be making a comeback.

Hare Krishna, a standard bred valued at $10,000 and owned by Charles Green of Winnipeg, is presently being trained by Maurice (Tim) Pankhurst of Franklin. Mr. Pankhurst hopes to be able to establish his own Windemere Pine Stable in the near future.

The horse was sired by Hurricane Dick, who was owned by Jim English, of Neepawa, and, although he did not race last year, performed on the Grand Circuit as a two-year old. The Grand Circuit includes

Montreal, Toronto and London and Hare Krishna also was scheduled to race in New York until a virus forced his owners to withdraw him.

20 years ago, Monday, December 20, 2004

Manitoba Agriculture minister Rosann Wowchuk unveiled a plan Monday calling for an overhaul of the province’s Agriculture department.

Under the plan, 20 of the province’s ag offices will be expanded and renamed Growing Opportunities (GO) Centres.

Twenty-three other offices, including Neepawa, will be run as secondary GO Offices.

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.

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

Matthew 1:20-21 (New International Version)

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BANNER & PRESS ARCHIVES

Audrey Pankhurts quiets the horse known as Hare Krishna, which had not been hitched to a sulkey in over a year. At this time in 1974, Tim Pankhurst was hard at work training the horse for harness racing.

NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS ARCHIVES

Perspectives

Tundra

By Chad Carpenter

A year of turmoil and blessing

Towards the end of my Christmas column last year I wrote,

“I also believe in prayer and have prayed for dozens, if not hundreds of people. I plan to continue to do so but as some of you know, my wife and I, but especially my wife would appreciate your prayers. We are grateful for all our medical people, but they can only do so much. Prayer is needed for sure.”

Last fall and Christmas season, my wife Christine was in pretty tough shape. She had been dealing with various symptoms for a couple of years by then with Sjogren’s Syndrome, intermixed with an outbreak of Shingles. Then last December, she was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer and faced a Whipple Procedure surgery on Jan. 4/24 at Health Sciences Centre. It was a six hour surgery and about a 14 day stay in hospital. There were some after surgery setbacks but we finally got her out of a difficult hospital stay and after the surgery healed up, she was put into a very rigorous chemotherapy treatment.

The good news is the diagnosis was fairly early, as was the surgery and chemo sessions. It was a tough go with Christine losing a lot of weight and she certainly caught up on her sleep. Many, many days were spent in her lift chair, sleeping and trying to eat. It took months for her appetite to come back to a point where her weight stopped dropping.

There were blessings along the way including many visits from friends. Together, we made the decision that I would keep on working and so I was not with her every day all day. Our office is only five minutes from our home. I re-learned how to do laundry, some shopping,

Ken Waddell Right in the Centre

cooking and housekeeping. Our son Rob, lives close by and he kept an eye on us. Son Mike phoned every day. Friends and staff kept checking in on us.

There were little bright spots. We bought the Virden Empire-Advance in June, which seems a little silly, but that whole deal brightened Chris’s days as we renewed some connections and made many new connections in her home community of Virden. On many of the weekly paper delivery trips to Virden, Christine has been able to make the trip with me to meet with staff and customers.

Our last drop off on the way home is in the village of Alexander and the place we stop is at Dundee Designs which is owned by Shirley LloydDavies. It was a cool re-connect with Shirley as she did some of our earliest computer work for our newspaper back in 1989 through a publishing company in Brandon. She has a little cafe in her store and one of the items she sells are delicious egg salad sandwiches that are supplied by the Honeyhouse in Rivers. Ever since childhood, Christine has loved egg salad sandwiches and those ones hit the appetite re-set button and were one of the first foods she actually enjoyed after months of battling an upset digestive system caused by the cancer and then the chemo. Another

store that has nice snacks is Hi-Way Grocery in Virden, a place where we also drop off papers. Some of their offerings appealed to Christine’s taste buds as well.

Chris had her chemo stopped in the late summer, tests showed that she was on the mend and although it’s been a long haul, she is getting much stronger. The walker got put into storage a while ago, the cane often gets left behind and I have been pretty much kicked out of the kitchen and somewhat out of the laundry room.

We are very thankful for her returning health, support from staff, family and friends. There was a lot of prayer by many people, some of whom we do not even know.Christmas might be a little less stressful this year.

In poor health, even in sickness unto death, we must remain thankful to God for his provision and mercy. Christmas is a great time to think upon God and his Son Jesus.

We are born, we live and then we die. God is good through it all and it is incumbent upon us all to live in His blessing and pass it along whenever and wherever we can.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this column are the writer’s personal views and are not to be taken as being the view of the newspaper staff.

And just like that, it’s Christmas

It comes as a surprise that as I age, time speeds up. I recall asking my father as he lived his days in a long term care facility if the time seemed long. He was puzzled that I asked and explained that the days bled into each other, the days, weeks, months, and then years all flowed, quickly.

I also recall being thankful; thankful that he wasn’t anxious about the passing of time, or perhaps, aware of the passing of time. I understand better now.

Way back when I was an elementary school student we practiced writing the digits of the new year. It required thought. And then when the teachers told us that we would one day write 2000 as the year, we were a tad unbelieving. And now it takes no effort to think 2025. The 70’s and 80’s aren’t far away in my thoughts. Preceding each new year we have celebrated Christmas, an event that surpasses the excitement and anticipation of the arrival of the new year. Perhaps because for Christmas we made wish lists and New Year lists were more ‘got to do better lists!’? What I do recognise is how the celebration of the day of Christmas has changed over the span of my almost seventy-nine years. Childhood held mystery and dreams, meals at the grandparents and playtime with the cousins. In those early years our family exchanged gifts on the 24th, after the chores were done and all was ready for the big day. The custom allowed us time to enjoy the gifts we received before heading out, first to one set of grandparents, and then hours later to the other set. Fine times everywhere! As a young parent there was the work of finding out what the children really wanted, and was realistic. The whole gambit; train sets, lego, easy bake ovens, Holly Hobby dolls and then the Cabbage Patch creations, lots of Barbie stuff, model cars and craft supplies. So much excitement and anticipation! As the family grew in size and numbers there was the juggling act; which day or what part of a day is spent at the in-laws? How do we play fair with everyone? We made it simple for our children- no expectations for the day itself, we scheduled summer holidays with everyone joining us. We had great camping- Lake Louise, Drumheller, Blue Lake, Spruce Woods…It was the family time and memories not a particular day. Grandparenting was a gift in itself.

As we aged, the family became more concerned than we were about us being alone on Christmas Day, trying to make time for visits and certainly calls; friends and neighbours inviting us to join them. And it was good.

This year will be different again. Now there are great grandchildren to be all excited and ramped. Close friends will ensure – for their sake- that I am not home alone for the entire day. I appreciate that a great deal. I am also truly okay enjoying the comfort of my own home, good food and music, and memories. So many memories. A lifetime of memories. And so, just like that it’s Christmas. Again. And I am thankful.

Blessing and peace to you all.

Words from a grateful heart

Idon’t know that I have ever done a column like this before; but I felt the need to share some personal thoughts with you this week. They are words from a grateful heart; to a community that has helped me become the person, partner and minister I am today.

First, I want to thank Ken and Chris Waddell for the privilege of writing and submitting these columns each week. “Faithfully Yours” has been part of the Banner and Press for roughly 27 years; and I have greatly enjoyed the weekly challenge of putting my thoughts into a document of 600 words or less.

To the above, I must add my thanks to those who read this column each week. I know you also read the columns by Ken Waddell and Rita Friesen. I am very honored to share a spot on Pages 4-5 with them. We deal with different topics and we each have our own unique writing style; but we share three things in common. We love God, we

Neil Strohschein

love our community and we want to be an encouragement to you all.

Next to my family-especially my wife Kathryn. We have walked through good times and challenging ones together. Your affirmation of my calling and support of my work have never been in doubt. You have shown me the importance of loving and accepting people just as they are; and for that I will always be grateful. Then, I want to thank the church congregations who have welcomed me into their lives since I moved to Neepawa. First Baptist Church, you were the ones who invited me to become your minister in 1996; and who patiently watched me change from being a loyal Albertan (and a bit of a “redneck,” I suppose) to a

fiercely loyal Manitoban.

When I left FBC at the end of December1999; I had no idea what I would do next. I just felt strong urge to stay in Neepawa; and on the first Sunday of Lent, 2000, I began to understand why. I knew then that God was calling me to be a “Minister-at-Large;” to serve small groups of believers in small communities; and give them the best I could every week, whether attendance was 50 or five (which some weeks it was).

To all the churches I have served in the past 24 years, my heartfelt thanks. To the residents of Neepawa and surrounding area, thank you for the love and support you have shown to me and to my family. You were there 19 years ago when Kathryn

had her stroke. Thanks to your prayers and encouraging words, she continues to get better. We are grateful for the twice-weekly visits from Home Care workers who help with her mobility exercises; and for the many who wave, smile and encourage her during the summer months when she and her scooter can be seen around town.

Finally, we thank you for the comforting words, hugs and acts of kindness you shared with us in the days following Kathryn’s son’s death. We always knew this was a loving and caring community. The past weeks have shown us just how loving and caring it really is. We love you all and are grateful for all you have done.

Now-you might think this is a farewell column. But it isn’t. It’s my way of saying “Merry Christmas” to people who have given me far more than I can ever give in return. This column will return in two weeks, as together we link faith to life in 2025.

Waiting for Christmas

Iwas reading in my Bible in the early mornings as I always do, and listening to some of my favourite Christmas worship songs, journalling and praying.

My kids started sleepily making their way out of their bedrooms, one by one, crawling up onto my lap for a morning hug and to say good morning.

This particular morning, my seven year old came upstairs not as a sleepy boy but as a boy who was on a mission!

He was fully dressed, no sleep in his eyes, and came up at a full RUN! Then as quickly as he rushed in, he came full stop beside the Christmas tree and turned to me in panic and said “where are the presents? Didn’t you wrap them yet? Christmas is almost here!”

I couldn’t help but smile at his panic, knowing that at seven, I would have felt

the same way. I calmly explained to him that the presents would get wrapped but not go under as early as we had done them the year before because our littlest son wasn’t born quite yet but this year he is almost one and will most definitely rip into presents if they are under the tree too early!

Still, knowing this information, every day he comes upstairs and looks longingly under the tree to see if they’ve appeared overnight yet!

How much is this like the Israelites awaiting the birth of a king that would come and save them all..

how long did they wait? How often were they impatient and excited?

How many times did they think it might be coming and be disappointed?

And how many of them.. and possibly us still today, came to hear of his coming and felt a level of disappointment or confusion when the gift they thought they were receiving, came as a human baby and not a mighty and powerful ruler in glory.

So I am determined as a parent, but also as a child of God, as we await Christmas Day and the joy and family time we spend, opening gifts and blessing

Thumbs up, thumbs down

Thumbs up to all the caring people that helped me when I broke my hip.

Lenda Jerome Neepawa, MB

each other.

To remind my kids AND myself of the reason we celebrate. And that sometime, the greatest gifts, come in small and unsuspecting packages and will bless us far more than we realize.

To teach them that the one true gift that is the reason we all live and breathe and are free today is because of that small baby, no crown on his head, born in a place where no baby should have to be born, to parents who didn’t come from glory or kingship, to save the world and all the generations to come from a life apart from him.

Emmanuel, God with us.

Thumbs up to Third Crossing for the delicious noon Christmas dinner. It was all decorated and the food was great. Sweet and sour meatballs, real turkey, real dressing, mashed potatoes and real gravy and carrots. Each table had their own plate of dainties it’s a lot of work, but the atmosphere was so happy. They used to do a full supper for each wing at Country Meadows, but not anymore - Budget cuts, I guess.

Gail Cathcart Neepawa, MB

Had an opportunity to read the article on the Yellowhead Centre and then in this week’s paper, some of the opinions. First, I think it was a good piece to have and because the Yellowhead Centre is such an integral part of our community, why would concerns with it not be front page news? Secondly, although I do agree that having a volunteer run board is getting harder and harder to have because volunteers are hard to come by, the way we have the board at the Yellowhead has not worked for quite some time and it isn’t anything to do with the people on it. Anytime you have something made up of user groups that are there because of a specific team or function, they are going to have that team or functions interests first and foremost in their mind. Not the longevity or finances of the facility itself. I don’t know that any of the thumbs commenters would have been one of the 6-8 at the AGM and nor was I, but spending anytime at the rink, the concerns from user groups and staff about older equipment failing and parts getting harder to find and more expensive certainly brings up concerns over finances and futures. So I think that the article earns my thumbs up for stating somethings that may be difficult to hear but likely needed to be said. The hub of the community deserves people to get their head out of the sand.

Kevin Cook, Neepawa, MB

Your recipe for success

Ingredients: - 1 Neepawa Banner & Press ad

- Your business

Directions: Book an advertisement with the Neepawa Banner & Press. Wait until readers view said advertisement. Enjoy the success with even more customers and sales.

Tara Kauenhofen

Faith & Family

out of helen’s kitchen Helen Drysdale

New Years toast

Whether a one word toast or longer, a toast is usually an expression of honor or goodwill. The term toast began back in the seventeenth century when toasted bread and spices were added to wine for flavour. By 18th century England it was considered rude to drink without wishing someone good health. Your right hand raised straight out with your glass was meant to show you carried no concealed weapons. The clinking of the glasses together was to replicate the sound of church bells ringing. Supposedly the devil was repelled by the sound of church bells. People in different countries may enjoy using a variety of drinks but raising glasses and giving a toast in celebration is something shared around the world.

“Na zdoróvʹje” say the Russians, in France it is “Santé” and in an Italian establishment “Salute”. For Gaelic Scotland and Ireland the toast is “Slàinte maith” and in the Ukraine your glass is raised to “Nazdorovlya”. All these toasts mean “to your health” and that is true for most countries. This New Year’s Eve try this sangria recipe to toast the New Year. My toast to you, “may 2025 bring you health, happiness, love and laughter. Happy New Year!”

Red Sangria

Sangria is festive, fruity and fun. It most commonly contains some mixture of red wine, chopped fruit, brandy, fruit juice, and sometimes sparkling water that is served chilled. Any combination will do! Any red wine that’s light- to medium-bodied will work for this recipe. Fruits like apples, citrus fruits, grapes, pears and strawberries work well in their wine-soaked states.

1 (750-ml.) bottle red wine

1 cup orange juice

1/2 cup brandy

1/4 cup sugar

1 orange, sliced

1 apple, sliced

1 cup sliced grapes

1 cup sliced fresh strawberries

1 (3”) cinnamon stick sparkling water, chilled, optional

In a large pitcher, mix wine, orange juice, brandy, and granulated sugar. Stir in oranges, apples, grapes, strawberries, and cinnamon stick. Stir, cover, and chill for at 2 hours and preferably overnight to allow the fruit to infuse the wine. For a sparkling sangria, top with a splash of chilled sparkling water. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Grapefruit punch

This simple party grapefruit punch will surely please your guests. It’s perfect for a holiday party and takes 10 minutes to make!

1 liter orange juice

1 liter grapefruit juice

2 liter Sprite or 7-up

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 orange, thinly sliced Ice

In a punch bowl, add the first four ingredients and stir. Garnish with orange slices and strawberries. Add ice and serve immediately.

The holiday seasonknowing what you don’t have to do

This season is filled with advice of how to make the season magical, what the latest presents are and seems to be a never ending list of to dos and expectations. In my personal counselling practice what I see ringing true over and over is that the holiday season isn’t easy, people are struggling because they want so badly to live up to what is expected of them and that they genuinely don’t want to hurt anyone by not following through with expectations. The expectations weigh on us and create a feeling of failure if we don’t live up to them.

Maintaining your personal peace is not necessarily about knowing what to do but is about knowing what you don’t have to do. First off, you don’t have to buy so many presents that you put yourself into financial crisis. Your loved ones (children included) would rather have a few thoughtful presents and many memories than many expensive presents and a few memorable moments. You don’t have to buy expensive presents. Try heading to the thrift store this year or using buy/sell groups on social media, get a large print of your loved one’s favorite photo and thrift a frame. I love the idea of creating a basket of someone’s favorite snacks from the grocery store.

You don’t have to break your routine. If you normally go to the gym during the week, there is nothing saying you cannot continue to go over the holidays, if you are on a strict diet you don’t have to break away from that because of an invisible social pressure

(unless you want to). You don’t have to drink alcohol. There is an enormous social pressure to drink and people should be able to refuse alcohol without being questioned if they are pregnant, ill or a social pariah. You don’t have to be happy all the time. Holidays are really hard for a lot of people and many folks forget that the season is not always synonymous with joy. You don’t have to do all the holiday baking if you find it to be mentally and emotionally draining. Trust me when I say that your co-worker will completely understand when you don’t show up with that tray of baking. Bake for your immediate family, bake WITH your immediate family, they are the ones that will pass on your baking

memories for generations to come. You don’t have to overcommit and agree to things that don’t align with your values. If you are feeling too burnt out to attend holiday party number 10 then stay at home in your jammies and watch bad Christmas movies. You don’t have to neglect selfcare over the holidays and in fact, the holidays are an opportune time to increase self-care. Have that bubble bath, read the book you’ve been dying to start and call that person you’d meant to see and book a coffee date. Plan the holidays with yourself in mind.

Delsie Martin (BA, MSW, RSW), is a Registered Social Worker working out of The Wellness Clinic in Brandon. She can be reached at dmartin@ wellnessclinicbrandon.ca.

Town of Neepawa receives Age-Friendly Manitoba Community Collaboration Grant

Submitted Media Release

The Town of Neepawa, along with key local organizations – H.A.N.D., HandiVan, and ArtsForward – is proud to announce the receipt of the Community Collaboration Grant from Age-Friendly Manitoba. This grant is designed to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for seniors, and Neepawa is now set to offer a variety of exciting programs and services to local residents.

Thanks to this generous funding, in 2025 residents of Neepawa will have a ‘Silver Club Initiative’ with access to a range of free activities and services aimed at promoting social engagement, mobility, and overall well-being. Here’s what residents can look forward to:

Free monthly grocery trips

On the third Wednesday of each month, HandiVan will provide free grocery trips for residents living in their homes, offering convenient transportation to and from Safeway on Seniors Day. This initiative ensures that individuals with limited mobility can access essential supplies and groceries without any added stress.

Monthly

activities and workshops

Residents will also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities throughout the year. Highlights include:

•Summer Trip to Riding Mountain National Park: Enjoy the beauty of one of Manitoba’s most stunning natural attractions with a guided trip to Riding Mountain National Park.

•“Bring and Share”

Vacation Pictures: A fun and interactive activity where participants can share photos and stories from their favorite vacations, fostering connection and reminiscence.

•Workshops: Educational sessions will be offered, including an RRSP, Will Writing, and Insurance workshop, aimed at helping seniors navigate important

financial and legal decisions.

• Card Games: Friendly and relaxing card games will be held, providing an enjoyable way for participants to socialize and engage.

• Stretching with Athletic Therapist Nicholas Noonan-Robinson: This session is designed to keep participants moving, and teaches them the proper techniques required for every day movements.

Social

hours and dances

In addition to the workshops and activities, there

will be monthly social hours and dances, creating opportunities for community members to meet new people, have fun, and enjoy live music in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

These new programs are part of a broader effort to make Neepawa more age-friendly and inclusive for all residents. By working together, H.A.N.D., HandiVan, ArtsForward, and the Town of Neepawa aim to foster a stronger, more connected community, ensuring that seniors are empowered to live independently while staying engaged and active.

We wish all our members, their family, and friends, a happy holiday season and a prosperous 2025

We encourage all eligible residents to take full advantage of these wonderful opportunities. For more information or to sign up

for activities and services, please contact Cassandra Groen at 204-476-7614 or recreation@neepawa.ca Together, we are build -

ing a more vibrant, agefriendly Neepawa. See the ad on below for more details.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF NEEPAWA

Pictured from left to right: Brenda Tonn (MASC), Cassandra Groen (Town of Neepawa), Justin Cicholski (Handivan), Michelle Ferguson (H.A.N.D.) and Yvonne Sisley (ArtsForward).

Agassiz MLA fall report

By Jodie Byram

As we head into the Christmas season, Manitobans are fortunate to have organizations and businesses in their communities’ collecting donations of money, food, clothing and toys for families in need during the holidays. Whether it be to a hamper or a food bank, I hope Manitobans consider making donations so everyone can share in the joy of the season.

The holidays are arriving after the first few weeks of the new provincial legislative session, which included the Manitoba government’s annual Speech from the Throne. The speech was the NDP’s preview of their plans for the year ahead, and it showed very little spirit of giving without a vision or strategy for Manitoba’s rising crime, increasing healthcare waits and overcrowded schools. And the speech was a short-sighted failure in matters of affordability and our province’s economic health. Despite his talk, Wab Kinew is offering nothing to lower grocery prices, reduce taxes or grow the economy, other than leaning on projects and investments launched by the previous Progressive Conservative government.

The NDP’s Throne Speech pledge to reduce grocery prices by ending supermarket companies’ anti-competitive contracts is especially hollow for consumers. The premier promised last year to decrease prices at grocery stores, and Manitobans know that hasn’t happened. Manitoba now leads all provinces in food inflation and more families are putting food back onto store shelves because they can no longer afford it.

An upcoming hydro rate freeze mentioned in the Throne Speech is a promise the NDP have recycled for years, and it’s coming from the government that has no plan to pay for it. The NDP have also given themselves the power to raise hydro rates at the cabinet table after increasing them by one per cent this past spring. Manitoba Hydro is $25 billion in debt while continuing to incur losses, and needs to renew its aging infrastructure. Meanwhile, Manitobans pay 33 cents of every dollar

on their hydro bills to cover interest on that debt. A rate freeze today would bring rate shock and surging prices tomorrow, and any savings for consumers through a hydro rate freeze would be wiped out by the NDP’s upcoming fuel tax increase.

It’s the same lack of accountability from the Kinew government on other taxes. Instead of investing properly in education this year, they are giving school divisions funding increases of less than inflation and have hit homeowners with a $148-million education property tax hike.

The NDP will eliminate the school tax rebate on property tax in 2025 and put an end to the education property tax phase-out. At the same time, they have cancelled plans for construction of nine schools that were to include more than 770 daycare spaces. Manitobans are paying more and getting less from this government, and are wondering where all their taxes are going.

It’s a good question. The previous PC government left Kinew with a surplus of more than $250 million last year and federal transfers are increasing, as Manitoba has received $4.3 billion in

equalization that began in April. However, just a year after forming government, the NDP have pushed the province into a $2-billion deficit.

With their mention of economic development in the Throne Speech, the NDP are giving Manitobans more false hope. In fact, this government has put Manitoba into an economic tailspin while driving up unemployment from four per cent to 5.9 per cent this year. Kinew’s first order of business in government was to shut down the provincial Economic Development Board, and Manitoba has lost more than $5 billion in direct foreign investment during the NDP’s first year in office.

This Christmas season, people across the province are getting optics rather than action in the premier’s smoke-and-mirrors approach to affordability, taxation and the economy. The session will resume in March, and I will continue to work with my colleagues on the opposition side of the House to push the Kinew NDP government to do much more, and much better, for Manitobans.

‘Lessons and Carols’

Merry Christmas

The Neepawa Banner & Press staff are taking a little bit of an extra (well deserved) holiday this year!

Our office will be closed

December 23, 2024 - January 3, 2025

There will be no December 27th and January 3rd issues of the Neepawa Banner & Press.

We do apologize for the inconvenience this may cause.

Our emails are still open!

If you’ve got a news tip, story or event, let us know! Call 204-476-3401 or email kwaddell@neepawabanner.com Any Advertisements email ads@neepawabanner.com

PHOTOS BY JOHN DRINKWATER

A Service of Lessons and Carols, a joint performance at the United-Anglican Shared Ministry, was hosted on Dec. 15. Performances were given by the Neepawa Area Community Choir (top photo), The Hims (middle photo) and the Santo Dominigo Choir (above photo).

Agassiz MLA

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Agassiz MLA Jodie Byram.

‘The Chipmunks’ and more at NFSC ice show

PHOTOS BY CASPER WEHRHAHN

The Neepawa Figure Skating Club, coached by Kim Smith, held its annual Christmas Ice Show on Dec. 15. Attendees were treated to an assortment of group and solo performances.

Pictured above: Alyssa Nadeau expertly glides while holding her skate during her solo performance.

Top middle: Senior CanSkate performers Rebecca Baraniuk, JM Cabatino and Elizabeth Sawadsky took to the ice as Alvin, Theodore and Simon from Simon and the Chipmunks.

Bottom middle, left: A scene from the performance of ‘Believe’, from the Polar Express, performed by the StarSkate group.

Bottom middle: A scene from the performance of ‘What Christmas Means to Me’, put on by the Junior StarSkate group.

Bottom middle, right: Annekke Scheper during a spotlight moment in the show’s grand finale, ‘Merry Christmas’. The finale was put on by the Junior StarSkate, Senior StarSkate, CanSkate and Senior CanSkate members.

Right: Makenna Sumner as pictured during her solo performance, exhibiting a sharp focus.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Minnedosa Ladies Bonspiel results

The Minnedosa Curling Club was a buzz on Dec 6 and 7, as the Minnedosa Ladies held their annual bonspiel.

In total, 12 rinks competed in the three event spiel. Friday night was Retro/Throwback themed where ladies showed off decades of hidden gems! The rinks were treated to nachos after their first game courtesy of Minnagro Ltd.

Saturday was Mathletes vs Athletes themed and again there were a variety of great outfits to be seen!!! The day was filled with lots of good curling, silent auction draws, 50/50’s, costume judging, looney broom, minute-to-win-it contests and a delicious supper served by Missy and her staff. Josie Sallows was the lucky winner of one of the Grand Prize draws - 2 Saturday passes to RFM, while Serena Ross won a $150 gift certificate to Klar So Spa! Live music by Brad Johnson & the Talent rounded out the evening.

The finals saw the following event winners:

First Event - Sponsored by Sunrise Credit Union: Kathryn Yanchycki, Josie Sallows, Amy Smith & Meaghan Stone.

Second Event - Sponsored by Minnagro Ltd. & Heritage Co-op: Heather Lewis, Carole Dalrymple, Jacki Nylen/ Betty Anne Aitken & Joan Tegg.

Third Event - Sponsored by Minnedosa Pharmacy: Lynne Gustafson, Charlene Madder, Brenda Ullberg & Glenda Rac

We’d also like to thank Cenovus Energy for their generous donation to the event as well as our other community donors: Minnedosa Golf & Country Club, Dairy Isle Drive-In, Farmhouse 50, Inspire Studio, Gold Leaf Boutique, and Minnedosa Home Hardware. Thanks also go out to our regular ladies’ teams who all did their part to make the spiel a big success.

Hectic week for Tigers Hockey

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

The Neepawa Tigers are heading into the Christmas break with a flurry of games on their schedule. The team played five games over the span of seven days, with three of those on the road. The first of these five, however, was at home on Wednesday, Dec. 11 against the Birtle Falcons.

Cohen Kulbacki had a six point night (4 goals - 2 assists), to help lead Neepawa to a 9-5 win. Carter Cruickshanks (2 goals), Brock Pasloski, Ian Foster and Wyatt Njegovan had the other goals for the Tigers. Njegovan also added four assists to his stats on the season. Jase Eros picked up the win in goal for NACI.

The next night on Thursday, Dec. 12, Neepawa travelled down the highway to Minnedosa to take on the Chancellors, where they would win by a 4-1 margin. Zach Plett scored late in the first period off of a power-play opportunity. Then early in the second, Kane Lapointe scored, what would eventually be the game winner, on an unassisted effort. Minnedosa’s Zachary Lamb scored his 13th of the season for the end of the period, to cut the lead back to one. But in the third, Wyatt Njegovan and Cohen Kulbacki each scored, to ensure another Neepawa victory. Goaltender Austin Michaluk made 37 saves and earned his fourth win of the regular season.

For the third night in a row, Neepawa would be back out on the ice, this time in Virden versus the

Golden Bears. By this point, the rigors of the schedule finally caught up to the Tigers, as they fell by an 8-3 score.

Cohen Kulbacki scored his 19th and 20th goal of the season while Ian Foster earned his 13th for Neepawa. None of the Tigers were able to keep pace with Virden, with them being lead by a four goal night from Jaden BrowingLozinski.

The team would get a bit of a break over the weekend, but return to action on Tuesday, Dec. 17 in Sandy Bay against the Badgers. This game featured a lot of offence from both sides, with Neepawa closing out the night on top by a 7-5 score. The Tigers consisted of seven different individual goal scorers. This victory improved the Tigers regular season record to 9-5-0, and had them in seventh place overall in the league standings. Before the arrival of the Christmas hiatus in the high school sports schedule, Neepawa played two more games. The first on Wednesday, Dec. 18 at home against the Vincent Massey Vikings and the second on Friday, Dec. 20 in Dauphin versus the Clippers. Both those games were played just after the Banner & Press publication deadline. The results are available online at www. westmanhockey.com.

The Neepawa Tigers will return to play in 2025 with a home game against the Crocus Plains Plainsmen on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Opening face-off is set for 7:30 p.m. at the Yellowhead Centre.

Attention coaches, parents and supporters!

The Banner & Press needs your help to highlight our minor hockey teams! Send us your game photos and results to be included in our sports section!

The third event winners Lynne Gustafson, Charlene Madder, Brenda Ullberg and Glenda Rac.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Pictured above: The first event winners Kathryn Yanchycki, Josie Sallows, Amy Smith and Meaghan Stone.

The second event winners Heather Lewis, Carole Dalrymple, Jacki Nylen, Betty Anne Aitken & Joan Tegg.

MJHL Standings

Neepawa Titans within striking distance of first place in MJHL West

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

The Neepawa Titans have closed the gap between themselves and top spot in the MJHL’s Western Division. The Titans recently passed the mid-way mark of their regular season schedule on a bit of a winning streak, having picked up five straight victories up to Wednesday, Dec. 18. These results had the hockey club just five points back of the Dauphin Kings for first place in the standings.

Game results

Thursday, Dec. 12 Neepawa 5-4 Virden

First Period

14:50 NPA B. Knox (2)

ASST: J. Clark (1)

07:37 VDN B. Bryant (4) PP

ASST: M. Miller (14)

18:01 VDN D. Tokariwski (3)

ASST: M. Light (7), T. Dodgson (6)

Third Period

00:38 NPA T. Wallis (5)

ASST: T. Tychonick (15), C. Kasprick

02:25 NPA C. Hegarty (13) SH

ASST: L. Paquette (11)

05:43 VDN B. Bryant (5) PP

ASST: M. Miller (15), N. Englot (13)

09:00 NPA T. Lewis (4) PP

ASST: T. Tychonick (16), T. Wallis (5)

18:39 VDN B. Sabel (5)

ASST: T. Plasisier (3), B. Bryant (12)

19:18 NPA R. Gower (1)

ASST: Unassisted

Scoring 1 2 3 Total PP

NPA 1 0 4 5 1/2 VDN 0

NPA M. Lobreau - (W) 31/35 saves VDN G. Renwick - (L) 23/27 saves Attendance: 719 - Tundra Place

Tuesday, Dec. 17

Neepawa 4-3 SO Wpg Blues

First Period

06:22 NPA R. Heaphy (1)

ASST: K. Weisgarber (11), M. Hartley (15)

06;53 NPA R. Gower (2)

ASST: K. Weisgarber (12), M. Hartley (16)

04:13 WPB C. White (4) ASST: R. Nhanieiev (5), A. Matar (9)

07:53 WPB W. Marceus (3)

ASST: E. Gradt (7),

(1), W. Marceus (3)

NPA L. Paquette (6)

M. Hartley (17), C. Kasprick (11) Overtime: No scoring

Shootout: NPA: T. Tychonick - No goal; L. Paquette - Goal; C. Kasprick - No goal; M. Hartley - No goal; K. Weisgarber - No goal; T. Wallis - No goal; R. Gower - Goal.

WPB: R. Williamsom - Goal; A. Thompson - No goal; C. White - No goal; C. Epp - No goal; R. Nhanieiev - No goal; G. Stallman - No goal; A. Matar - No goal.

Saturday, Dec. 14

3-1 Wayway

B. Knox (4), J. Kohut (4)

06:45 NPA A. McIntosh (1)

(9)

ASST: G. MacDonald (4), B. Knox (5) 19:12 NPA C. Hegarty (14) EN

ASST: M. Hartley (14), L. Paquette (12) Scoring 1 2 3

WAY J. Wareham - (L) 27/29 saves NPA KC Couckuyt - (W) 25/26 saves

Attendance: 308 - Yellowhead Centre

MJHL Player stats

Over the course of December, Neepawa has also separated itself from a pair of teams trying to catch them in the standings. The Titans played the Virden Oil Capitals and Waywayseecappo Wolverines twice each over the past few weeks, and came away with four regulation wins. These results had Neepawa 16 points clear of Virden and Wayway in the East and securely in a playoff position at this time. While anything could happen in the second half of the season, the Titans appear, at this time, to have their own playoff destiny securely within their own control.

Neepawa could be in an even better position heading into the holiday hiatus, as they have a pair of games scheduled against the Northern Manitoba Blizzard on Friday, Dec. 20 and Saturday, Dec. 21. The Blizzard are on a run of their own as of late and are in second place in the West, with a 19-13-0-1 record. That’s just one point better than Neepawa in the overall standings.

If one of those two teams are able to win both games set for the Yellowhead Centre this weekend, it will put them in a strong position to be able to chase down Dauphin in the second half of the year.

The results of those game were final after the Banner & Press publication deadline, but those details will be available online at www. mjhlhockey.ca. Each one of those games will also be broadcast locally on NACTV. Check the local cable schedule for dates and times for those replays.

The Neepawa Titans will return to action in 2025 with a game against the league leading Steinbach Pistons (23-5-2-0. 48 points) on Sunday, Jan. 5. Start time at the Yellowhead Centre is set for 6:30 p.m.

Neepawa Farmers fall to Border Kings

Weekend results from around the Tiger Hills Hockey League

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

A pair of goals from Kyle McDonald were the only offence the Neepawa Farmers were able to muster in a 5-2 loss to the Boissevain Border Kings on Saturday, Dec. 14. McDonald’s goals bookended five straight scores from the Kings, which included two from Jagger Thomas and another pair from Nathan Flodell. Tyson Pringle scored the other goal from Boissevain on the night.

16 21 5. Logan Paquette 6 13 19

Club 55 Bowling

12, 2024 Ladies’

Single & Triple: Elsie Slimmon 215 & 578. Men’s High Single & Triple: Merv Bohn 301 & 637. Other Good

Scores: Elsie Slimmon 161, 202; Chuck Morden 160, 207, 162; Carole LeBoutillier 213; Darrell Gabler 151, 185, 228; Vivian Oswald 155, 191, 192; Muriel Porada 178, 152; Iain Greig 180, 155; Len Kuharski 151, 173; Laurie Kohinski 160, 181; Russ Taylor 248, 182; Janice Absteiter 171; Barb Bohn 176; Merv Bohn 164, 172.

This result drops Neepawa’s regular season record in the Tiger Hills Hockey League (THHL) to 2-5-1-0 on the year, while Boissevain improved to 5-20-1 and have jumped into first place in the Western Division. Unfortunately for the Farmers, this loss drops them into fifth place in the East.

Minnedosa defeat Rivers

A huge victory for the Minnedosa Bombers over the weekend, as they pick up a 2-1 win over the Rivers Jets. Bryson Werbicki-Mallett scored the game winner with just 18 seconds left in regulation, off of a Ryan Heino pass. That combo also contributed the first goal of the game for Minnedosa in the first period. Just 13 seconds after the Bombers’ goal, however, Rivers’ Keaton Moore tied it back up.

This is a very important victory for Minnedosa, as it allows them to keep pace with Rivers and Killarney in the standings. The Killarney Shamrocks are first in the East Division, with 15 points, while Rivers has earned 14 on the season.

The Bombers, with this regulation win, are 6-1-0-1 on the year, and have an

accumulated 13 points, as we near the halfway mark of the THHL schedule.

Carberry lose to MacGregor

It turned into a wild third period in Carberry on Saturday, Dec. 13, with a six goal outburst between the hometown Plainsmen and the visiting MacGregor Wild. After the dust settled however, it was MacGregor who prevailed, picking up a 5-3 win.

Both teams scored three times in the last 20 minutes, with Zaine McConnell, Rylan Vietch and Carson Nakonechny collecting goals for Carberry. MacGregor counted with a pair from Tyler Gibson and a single for Justin Minoletti. Ultimately, it was a pair of goals early in the first period from Braden Klippenstein and Drake Sheppard that were the difference on the night for the Wild, who improved to 4-4-0-0 on the year.

Classifieds

Personal

Crisis Pregnancy Centre

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

Notice

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

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

Notice

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

Auctions

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

Myrtle Doreen “Weenie” Fischer

Myrtle Doreen “Weenie” Fischer passed away peacefully on December 11, 2024, at the age of 98 years. She was born April 16, 1926, to Myrtle and Frank Tomes and was the youngest of 5 children. They had a strong Christian faith and never missed a Sunday church service. She was very close to her siblings. Christmas, Easter and other special holidays were always spent together and often at our house.

After her schooling she met and fell in love with her air force sweetheart. Their romance blossomed until they were married July 9, 1945. From this union they were blessed with four children – Larry, Lynne, Randy and Rhonda. Mom and dad farmed for many years both grain and cattle and mom always had a big garden. They loved to dance and play cards with the neighbors.

Mom always put her family first, whether taking us to hockey, ball, figure skating or helping with homework. Doing all those things that moms do. You could smell her homemade bread walking up the lane after school, and always had a hot meal ready for dads hunting buddies. She was very community minded, she sang in the church choir, held an office in UCW and a strong member of the Legion Aux 189. She baked pies, made soup whenever needed and convened many a fall supper at the church.

After a house fire we moved to the Tomes family farm where they stayed until dads failing health when they moved to Neepawa where mom lived on Davidson Street for twenty-two years. Her health sent her to hospital in January 2024, then in May to Country Meadows Personal Care Home until her passing.

We all did everything we could to keep mom in her little apartment. Mom loved to read, play bingo, jigsaw puzzles, the jumble in the free press, she loved tv sports, especially the Blue Jays and curling. She had a passion to knit and crochet. Many dish clothes were made while watching her soap operas, she loved playing cards and could still kick our butts in crib or scrabble. She kept a daily journal for years.

To say the least, mom was a worrier, a thunder or windstorm had her heading to the basement and whenever we went on a road trip until we checked in, when we reached our destination.

Mom loved her many Plumas friends and her new Neepawa friends, she loved her family unconditionally and instilled family values in all of us. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were the apple of her eyes. Up until the end, she never forgot a name or a birthdate.

Doreen was predeceased by her husband Scott of almost 60 years, grand daughter Lori Vinie, and great grand daughter Emma and Ava Lambier, and her siblings.

Left to mourn her passing are her children Larry (Debbie), Lynne (Bob), Randy (Debbie), Rhonda (Brian), 10 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren, sister in laws Viola Rempel and Barb Fischer.

Donations can be made in Doreen’s memory to the Plumas United Church.

A Celebration of Doreen’s Life will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 2pm at the Plumas Community Hall.

Clarke’s Funeral Home Gladstone/MacGregor in care of arrangements.

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

Help Wanted

Four Seasons Repair, a family-owned small engine repair shop in Minnedosa, is hiring a parts consultant. With nearly 30 years of service, we offer high-quality lawn, garden, and forestry products from brands like Husqvarna and Echo. The position is Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5:30 PM, in a supportive environment that values teamwork and personal development with training opportunities provided. Interested candidates can apply in person at 21 Armitage Ave or email their resumes to fsrepair@mts.net. For more details, visit our website: www.fourseasonsrepair.ca/ job-listing

For Sale or Rent

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

For Sale

Over 500 Books, Genres include Western,Detective and romance. Authors include James Paterson,David Baldaccl, Sandra Brown,Lee Child, John Grisham, Dane Brown and Many More, Call 204-834-2673 or text 7611772. Lots of of Hard Cover and Large Prints.

For Rent

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

chrisTmas

Obituary

Thelma Doreen Jury

Thelma Doreen Jury was born in Neepawa, Manitoba, July 20th, 1930, to Leighton & Nellie Graham. She passed away peacefully December 10, 2024, at Country Meadows in Neepawa, Manitoba. Thelma and Albert were married in 1949. They were blessed with five children, who were raised on the farm in Eden, Manitoba.

Thelma is predeceased by her husband Albert in 2003, and daughter Lois in 2012. She is survived by her daughter Linda; son Keith (Debbie); son Donald (Marlette); and son David; 7 Grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Thelma loved her family and took a keen interest in all her children.

We would like to thank the Neepawa Hospital and Country Meadows along with Dr. Wareham and the entire care team for their excellent care.

White’s Funeral Home ~ Neepawa in care of arrangements. www.whitesfh.ca ~ (204) 476-2848

Rural Municipality of Minto-Odanah Request For Proposals

The Rural Municipality of Minto-Odanah requests written proposals for the construction of a road and access driveway, on Road 104W south of PTH#16A, between the NE 10-15-18 wpm and the NW 11-15-18 wpm, Manitoba, Canada.

All proposals to be received by the undersigned by no later than 4:00 p.m., January 16, 2025.

Send proposals marked “Road” to: Rural Municipality of Minto-Odanah Box 1197 Minnedosa, Manitoba R0J 1E0

Phone: (204) 867-3282

Fax: (204) 867-1937

Email: admin@mintoodanah.ca

For further information contact: Operations Foreman, Rodney Robinson at (204) 867-7603. Drawings of the specifications are available by contacting the Municipal Office.

The lowest or any proposal may not necessarily be accepted, and the Municipality reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to waive defects, or to accept any offer which may be considered in the best interests of the Municipality. The Municipality, in its entire discretion may reject or accept all or any part of the proposal or any of the proposals submitted under this proposal call.

All word classifieds must be prepaid before printing

We are seeking a motivated, energetic, well organized Office Manager for our Neepawa branch. Duties include Customer Service, Invoicing, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Inventory Control, and other associated duties. The successful candidate will be an excellent communicator and work with other staff in a team environment to help maintain a high level of customer service.

Help Wanted FOODS

Hog Receiving Barn Worker (NOC85100)

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 5 positions.

Compensation and benefits package commensurate with experience.

Closing date for applications: Position open until filled Please apply by resume by to: Shur-Gro Farm Services Ltd. Box 455, Neepawa MB. R0J 1H0

Attention: Gary Rossnagel

Email: garyrossnagel@shur-gro.com

invites applications for a part time Educational Assistant at J.M. Young School in Eden

This Educational Assistant position is a part time position 5.75 hours every other day which will commence on a mutually agreed upon date.

Previous applicants must submit a new cover letter and resume.

Successful candidates must complete a satisfactory Criminal Records and Child Abuse Registry check.

Send application/resume including references by NOON, Monday, December 30th, 2024 to:

Julie van Kommer

Coordinator of Student Services Beautiful Plains School Division

Box 700, Neepawa, MB. R0J 1H0

Phone: (204) 476-2388 • Fax: (204) 476-3606

EMAIL: bpsd@bpsd.mb.ca

Only those selected for a short list will be contacted. Others are thanked for their interest now.

invites applications for two part-time term Educational Assistants at Hazel M. Kellington School

These part-time term positions will be full days (6.25 hours) every other day.

Duties will commence on January 27th, 2025 to June 25th, 2025.

The successful candidates must complete a satisfactory Criminal Records and Child Abuse Registry check.

Previous applicants must submit an updated cover letter and resume.

Send application including references by NOON, Monday, January 6th, 2025 to:

Julie van Kommer

Coordinator of Student Services Beautiful Plains School Division

Box 700, Neepawa, MB. R0J 1H0

Phone: (204) 476-2388 • Fax: (204) 476-3606

EMAIL: bpsd@bpsd.mb.ca

Only those selected for a short list will be contacted. Others are thanked for their interest now.

will be no December 27Th & January 3rD

The current starting wage is $19.25/hour with incremental increases to $20.55/hour based on tenure 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

• 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 involve:

• Receiving and unloading hog deliveries.

• Sorting hogs into appropriate receiving pens.

• Ensuring humane and safe handling of hogs in our facility.

• Completing hog receiving documents to CFIA standards.

• Scraping trailers.

• Working outdoors and in a barn environment. To excel in this role, you should possess:

• Respect for animal welfare, food safety, and workplace safety. Understanding of animal behavior

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

• Minimum of one (1) to seven (7) months experience working with livestock

• Fit and capable of working in a physically demanding role. Capable of bending, lifting, and crawling Completion of Secondary school or equivalent experience

Capable of repetitive manual tasks

• Able to effectively communicate in English

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

HyLife i s 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 www.neepawabanner.com

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

PINE CREEK SCHOOL DIVISION

RECRUITMENT JOB FAIR

January 27, 2025 5pm to 7pm

Gladstone Elementary School 116 Morris St, Gladstone, Manitoba

Please visit our website for more information at https://www.pinecreeksd.mb.ca/

TURTLE RIVER SCHOOL DIVISION

Invites Applications for the following position: Head Custodian Glenella School This is a full time position, Monday – Friday, (7 hours daily).

Further information regarding duties, wage, hours & qualifications may be obtained by contacting the Turtle River School Division Maintenance Supervisor. Applications close when the position is filled.

Please forward all applications complete with 3 references to:

Stephen Oversby Maintenance Supervisor

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

Turtle River School Division Box 309 McCreary, Manitoba R0J 1B0

Phone: (204) 835-2067 (extension 213) Email: soversby@trsd.ca

Turtle River welcomes applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations may be available upon request. All applications are appreciated, only candidates who are selected for interviews will be contacted. Successful candidates must complete a Criminal Record/Vulnerable Sector and Child Abuse Registry Check.

TURTLE RIVER SCHOOL DIVISION

invites applications for the following position at École Laurier

Term position

Educational Assistant – Funded by Jordan’s Principle French Immersion 6 hours a day

February 3, 2025 – June 26, 2025

Qualifications:

• Bilingual in French and English

• Ability to work well with others in a collaborative environment

• Grade 12 or equivalent is required

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

• Must have a passion for working with students

• Demonstrates enthusiasm, resourcefulness and open-mindedness

Applications close at noon on Friday, January 10, 2025.

For more information

Contact Christine VanHumbeck

Submit cover letter and resume to: cvanhumbeck@trsd.ca

Phone (204) 447-2068 Fax (204) 447-3048

Turtle River welcomes applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations may be available upon request. All applications are appreciated, only candidates who are selected for interviews will be contacted. Successful candidates must complete a Criminal Record/Vulnerable Sector and Child Abuse Registry check.

La Division scolaire Turtle River est à la recherche de candidat(e) pour combler le poste suivant à l’École Laurier (Maternelle à 8e année): Poste temporaire

Auxiliaire – Jordan’s Principle Programme d’immersion française 6 heures par jour

L’entrée en fonction se fera le 3 février, 2025 au 26 juin, 2025.

Les candidat(e)s doivent :

• posséder la connaissance du français et de l’anglais parlé et écrit

• posséder un diplôme d’études secondaires

• avoir d’excellentes habiletés de communication

• démontrer la capacité de travailler en équipe

• démontrer de l’enthousiasme, de la débrouillardise et une ouverture d’esprit

Toute personne intéressée à soumettre sa candidature doit faire parvenir une demande d’emploi accompagnée de leur curriculum vitae à la directrice de l’école par courriel, avant le 10 janvier, 2025 à midi.

Christine VanHumbeck

Directrice

Courriel: cvanhumbeck@trsd.ca

Téléphone : (204) 447-2068

Télécopieur : (204) 447-3048

La division Turtle River se fait un devoir d’offrir une expérience englobante et sans obstacles aux personnes qui ont des besoins en matière d’accessibilité. Il est possible de demander des mesures d’adaptation à tout stade du processus de recrutement. Les candidats retenus doivent avoir des résultats satisfaisants à la vérification du casier judiciaire pour travailler auprès des personnes vulnérables et du registre concernant les mauvais traitements. N.B. Seulement les personnes choisies pour une entrevue seront contactées.

Lions support Salvation Army

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Neepawa Lions Club made a donation of $1,000 to the Neepawa Salvation Army Christmas Hamper Campaign recently. Presenting the cheque to Amanda Naughton-Gale were Lions members Jason Nadeau, Don Chubey and Tom Borsa.

Notice

TOWN OF CARBERRY PUBLIC NOTICE

REGARDING SPECIAL SERVICE PROPOSAL BY-LAW NO. 7/2024 TO ESTABLISH RATES TO RECOVER COSTS OF COLLECTION AND TRANSPORTATION OF WASTE AND RECYCLABLE MATERIALS

The council of the Town of Carberry has scheduled a public hearing at the Carberry Council Chambers on January 6, 2025 at 7:00 pm to present the following Special Service Proposal By-law No. 7/2024:

A. Proposed Service:

The Town of Carberry has provided collection and transportation of waste and recyclable materials and operation of the landfill site under By-law No. 7/2024. Council for the Town of Carberry deems it necessary to continue to provide these services. This new Special service By-Law repeals By-law No. 7/2020 and updates the affected properties, service costs, method, and rates of taxation. The proposed by-law will be effective for the years 2025 to 2028 inclusive. Services will remain as follows: garbage collection every Tuesday, recycling collection every Thursday and glass collection the first Tuesday of each month. The three-bag limit per household will also remain with additional garbage tags available at a cost of $20 for 10 tags.

B. Area of the Municipality:

Under this proposal, a special service tax will be imposed on all taxable, grant-in-lieu and otherwise exempt properties within the Town of Carberry, as described in Schedule B attached hereto.

C. Estimated Cost of Service:

The estimated cost of the special service plan for 2025 to 2028 are as follows (allowing for a 2% increase in expenses per year):

BU Brass perform in Neepawa

The Neepawa Middle School and Neepawa Area Collegiate Institute held their Band Booster fundraiser, featuring the Brandon University Brass Ensemble, earlier this month. The fundraiser concert was held at the Roxy Theatre and had a silver collection for admission, which will help reduce student band trip costs.

Pictured: The Brass Ensemble during their perfomance at the Roxy Theatre, directed by Dr. Edward Bach.

NOTICES

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of

D: Method and Rate of Special Service Tax: The method of taxation to be used to calculate the special service

Note: Buildings with commercial downstairs and suites upstairs shall pay the commercial rate. Buildings with several commercial uses pay 50% of the per base parcel rate for each such commercial use/unit. Residential dwellings with suites pay the base per parcel rate for the single-family residence and 50% of the rate for each suite.

Apartment buildings pay the base rate plus 50% of the per base parcel rate for each apartment.

Mobile home parks pay the base per parcel rate per unit.

Any shortfall incurred throughout any given year will come from reserve and if the reserve has insufficient funds, the shortfall amount will come from the general levy.

A written objection may be filed with the Chief Administrative Officer, at 44 Main Street, Box 130, Carberry, MB R0K 0H0, prior to the commencement of the hearing. At the hearing, Council will hear any potential taxpayer who wishes to make a presentation, ask questions or register an objection to the special services plan.

All objections, written or verbal, must be filed prior to the adjournment of the hearing and must include the name, address, and property description of the person filing the objection and the grounds of their objection.

Copies of Special Service Proposal No. 1/2024 are available at the municipal office at 44 Main Street, Carberry

Dated at the Town of Carberry this 13 day of December, 2024, and issued pursuant to Section 318 of The Municipal Act.

Grady Stephenson

Chief Administrative Officer

Town of Carberry (204) 834-6602

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.

URGENT PRESS RELEAS-

ES - 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. PLAN YOUR ADVERTISE-

Notice

UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE PLANNING ACT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

On the date and at the time and location shown below, a PUBLIC HEARING will be held to receive representations from any persons who wish to make them in respect to the following matter:

RESCHEDULED

MUNICIPALITY OF NORTH CYPRESS-LANGFORD BY-LAW NO. 4-2024 being an AMENDMENT to the MUNICIPALITY OF NORTH CYPRESS-LANGFORD ZONING BY-LAW NO. 07-2022, as amended.

HEARING LOCATION:

Council Chambers, 316 – 4th Avenue, Carberry, Manitoba

DATE & TIME: January 13th, 2025 at 10:00 am

GENERAL INTENT OF BY-LAW NO. 4-2024

To rezone a 22 acre portion of NE 01-11-13WPM from “A/R” Agricultural/Rural District to “RR10” Rural Residential District.

AREA AFFECTED:

Part of NE 01-11-13WPM, in the Municipality of North Cypress-Langford as shown in a heavy broken line on the map below.

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: Cypress Planning District, 122 Main Street, Carberry, Manitoba Phone: 204-834-6618

For more Information contact: Teresa Parker, CAO of the Municipality of North Cypress – Langford Phone (204) 834-6600

A copy of the above proposal and supporting material may be inspected at the location noted above during normal office hours, Monday to Friday. Copies may be made and extracts taken therefrom, upon request.

MENTS FOR 2025! Maximize your business plan, for a successful year. Jump on our great prices and start getting responses! 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) 9471691 for more details or to book ads. MCNA - Manitoba Community Newspapers Association. www.mcna. comFINANCIAL

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

PHOTO BY CASPER WEHRHAHN

The MakeHolidays Scents

Incredible Vanishing Candy Canes

Neepawa Titans deliver holiday cheer to Kinsmen Kourts II

SUBMITTED PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE NEEPAWA TITANS On Tuesday, Dec. 10, members of the Neepawa Titans Hockey Club, spread some Christmas cheer in the form of doing decorative door wraps across Kinsmen Kourts II in Neepawa.