June 28, 2024 - Neepawa Banner & Press

PHOTO BY EOIN DEVEREUX

An opportunity to give back

Neepawa DQ raises over $2,000 for Minnedosa Youth Drop-in Centre

By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press

It isn’t out of the ordinary to see Neepawa’s Dairy Queen bustling with activity. On the evening of June 20, however, there was a special initiative taking place. That day, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the local restaurant branch was partnered with Minnedosa’s Valley Life Family Worship Centre (VLFWC) to aid in raising funds for the group’s new Youth Drop-in Centre. During the specified time period, a portion of the sales from all food items would be donated towards the youth-focused initiative.

As part of this collaboration, volunteers associated with the VLFWC were also on the scene to assist with serving food– including some enthusiastic youth!

The Neepawa DQ was bustling with activity both indoors and outdoors as the supper hours approached on June 20, as part of the fundraiser for

“It was a very good evening– the weather cooperated and the volunteers were great,” said Neepawa DQ owner/manager Pam

Brown. “It was a wonderful time and I really appreciated being a part of it. I always appreciate when we have the opportunity

to give back to the community.”

The official results were tabulated and ready as of the morning of June

21, showing that a grand total of $2,065.33 will be donated to the VLFWC.

“It was an excellent day at DQ,” said Rev. Don

Pictures on left: These two youngsters, who were volunteers for the day, await an order that they would bring out to the table. Centre: Carollyn and Wayne Stenson were at the ready with information and 50/50 tickets in support of the VLFWC’s Youth Drop-in Centre. Right: One of the adult volunteers brings an order to one of the tables.

Dragan, of VLFWC. “[We also had] a couple hundred dollars come in donations and our 50/50 tickets sold very well– [we got] $240 in tickets.”

Combined together, these funds bring the VLFWC another step closer towards the construction of their new building and Drop-in Centre, which is estimated at a total cost (when furnished) of $3.4 million.

Further information on the Youth Drop-in Centre can be found in the Aug. 11, 2023 or June 7, 2024 edition of the Neepawa Banner & Press, or on VLFWC’s website. Additionally, as the VLFWC’s 50/50 draw will take place on Aug. 18, information on that initiative can still be found on their website as well, or by reaching out to Rev. Dragan at dragan@ icloud.com.

Keep your eye on the ball

Neepawa was host to the Midwest Regional Baseball Championship over the weekend. Teams from the U11 and U13 categories, including four clubs from Neepawa, participated in the three day tourney. Additional pictures and details on the event can be found on page 13

PHOTO BY CASPER WEHRHAHN

Minnedosa’s Valley Life Family Worship Centre.

PHOTOS BY CASPER WEHRHAHN

PHOTO BY EOIN DEVEREUX

1974: Elevator ribbon cutting hosted at Harte, MB

By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press

125 years ago, Wednesday, June 28, 1899

The Neepawa footballers, not satisfied with their win in Plumas last week, had to take from the hotel they stayed at a valise belonging to another man. The irate owner came up on Saturday in quest of it and returned on Monday with his grip.

100 years ago, Tuesday, June 24, 1924

It is the pleasure of the Press to note the advancement of another Neepawa boy, the information being gathered from the Winnipeg Daily Free Press of June 18. Leslie Hancock, a public school pupil here, who afterwards attended Kelvin technical

school and graduated at the agricultural college, Winnipeg, is now employed by the Canadian government as director of sheep and swine production and marketing in Northern Manitoba, and is reported to be doing good work. Before taking over his present duties, he was employed as hog grader at the Winnipeg stockyards, so that he has practical experience as well as technical training.

Leslie Hancock’s services are at the call of boys and girls clubs and farmers who want to engage in either sheep or swine raising, and he is kept quite busy amongst the new settlers. His specialty is to so direct clients that they may prosecute their calling with profit and that is the important part of agriculture these days. That Lake of the Woods

milling company’s elevator that was an obstruction to the view of passing C.P.R. trains for so many years is now out of the way. So too is the town treasury out of the way of about $200 a year revenue. With less danger, there is also less service. But this is no cause for worry. Neepawa is no longer a great wheat marketing centre. One remaining elevator and two loading platforms will suffice for all the business to be done. Grain is now marketed at seven adjacent points that formerly came to Neepawa. It is now up to Neepawa to provide facilities for the better marketing of other commodities which farmers are advised to produce.

75 years ago, Thursday, June 30, 1949

Hallboro: An ice cream social was held at the school on Friday evening June 24. A ball game was played during the evening between Oberon and Hallboro. Dancing was also indulged in for a couple of hours. A large crowd attended and delightful time was had. The ladies realized a nice sum of money from the sale of ice cream and cake, which will be used to buy cups for use at the school.

50 years ago, Thursday, June 27, 1974

Big Valley, just off number 5 highway, across from the Birnie Road, is expected to be a place of thriving activity on Sunday, June 30, as the Rural Municipality of Rosedale celebrates 90 years of history. The program begins at 2:00 p.m…

Congratulations are

extended to the Rural Municipality of Rosedale on the occasion of the 90th anniversary.

Some 200 farmers, interested citizens and officials gathered at the village of Harte on the CNR mainline to share in the official opening ceremonies of the 160,000 bushel capacity elevator. The crowd mingled in the open air and sunshine, examined the elevator, signed the visitors book and were given a pool elevator cap…

The ribbon was cut by Kristine Hunter, young daughter of the elevator manager, assisted by Harold Sneath, to officially open the elevator. The first load of wheat was drawn into the elevator by Wallace Marshal and Archie B. Chisholm, who hauled to Oberon and Brookdale elevators for years.

20 years ago, Manitoba, June 28, 2004

The province has committed $1.2 million for the construction of a new chemotherapy unit at Neepawa hospital.

A group of local high school students have launched a fundraising campaign in a bid to reopen Gourmet (Ziggy’s) Pizza…

The students, part of a Visions and Ventures program at Neepawa Collegiate, also hope to purchase the adjoining building (now home to Wall to Wall Carpets), and run it as an arcade.

If the project gets off the ground, the centuries, which are independent of the high school, will be run as non-profit organizations [Bruce] Sawchuk said.

of Manitoba Pool Elevators, cut the ribbon to officially open the new elevator at Harte on the afternoon of June 20, 1974. About 250 people attended the ceremony.

What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Mark 8:36 (New International Version)

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.

Plant a seed in your customers’ minds... Put your ad here to cultivate their interest!

Kristine Hunter, assisted by Harold Sneath, president

The 160,000 bushel elevator at Harte, as it appeared on its opening day in 1974. It was described as a fully automatic facility that was limitless in the amount of grain it could handle in a season.

Perspectives

Tundra

By Chad Carpenter

35 years in the making

Last week I wrote about the way we have developed our newspaper business model and how the Waddell family now has three papers. The Neepawa Banner & Press and now the Virden Empire Advance are owned by my wife Christine and myself with some input from our two sons, Mike and Rob. The Rivers Banner is owned by grandson Micah Waddell and as noted last week we manage it for him. I forgot to say last week that son Mike, and his wife Naomi, publish Brandon’s News-in-Minute.

For centuries now, newspapers have had subscription fees or papers have been sold on a copy-by-copy basis but we don’t do that. Most subscription based papers are shrinking in numbers while most free circulation papers are growing in circulation.

The “free” paper concept came to Manitoba in the 1980s and we were introduced to the idea by the late Harvey Friesen. He published a paper out of the Winkler-Morden area and it was pretty successful even though he gave it away free. Harvey was a very friendly fellow, a Mennonite by birth, he was a WWII veteran of the RCAF. I can still hear Harvey’s words from newspaper conventions regaling his fellow publishers. “Boys,” he’d say, “get rid of those subscription lists. You have to send out bills and sometimes two or three times, you have to keep up the subscriber lists and print labels. Then you have to stick labels on the papers and pay more at Canada Post because they are addressed.”

Back in those days, Canada Post was the way to go, but 30 years later, Canada Post has slipped badly in their service. If you put a paper in

Ken Waddell Right in the Centre

the mail in a local post office to be shipped to even a neighbouring town, it has to go to Brandon or Winnipeg and sit in a warehouse, sometimes overnight but more often it sits for several days. When we used Canada Post, we had many instances where papers could take a week to end up ten miles down the road. It wasn’t usually the local postmistresses’ fault, they usually gave excellent service but the papers had to get to their Post Office first. We would end up driving the Neepawa Banner & Press to the post offices. In addition, over the 30 years we ran into at least six postal strikes where Canada Post didn’t deliver at all.

So we have evolved away from Canada Post almost entirely. When we pulled out of Canada Post we saved over $80,000 per year in postage. You would think someone from Canada Post would have phoned and asked why we left but you guessed it, we never got a call. It just makes sense now to put our former postage money into a couple of good vehicles and hire drivers.

With a paid circulation model, the subscribers determine the coverage area. With the free model, we determine the coverage area, it’s consistent and hopefully we get the papers out on time and to where

they are wanted. Admittedly, we have had to delay deliveries a couple of times due to winter storms but if we can’t drive, likely the mail truck can’t either.

So it has taken over 30 years to develop the paper model we use now. Like I said last week, a newspaper has to have news, ads, opinions and paper. It’s not rocket science but it is effective. Your community paper will come to you and be available in many places for the foreseeable future. But to be able to pay our printer, our staff and buy gas for the vans, we need ads. Quite frankly, we need lots of ads.

Also, we extend a vote of thanks to Glacier Media because with the Neepawa Press in 2015 and with the Virden Empire Advance in 2024, they realized that a locally owned model better serves the community than a big corporation model. I thank them for recognizing that and for selling us those two papers.

The Neepawa Banner, the paper we started, is only 35 years old but the other three titles are all way over 100 years old. It is an honour to carry on the community newspaper tradition.

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 Banner & Press staff.

The week in review...

My thumb is healing! On Father’s Day Sunday I chose to honor the men who have loved me well by cleaning the vehicle. Like, really clean the rascal, just the way both men would have wanted it done. I vacuumed, dusted, washed and wiped. I’m rather one who uses the vehicle for transporting me and many items, rather than the one who deeply cares about how clean it is. I was close to finished when, with the right hand on the front door jamb, the left hand solidly closed the door. Fortunatley the right hand could still think enough to open the door and release the thumb. There was a prolonged moment of silence….I did pause long enough to soak the throbbing digit in ice water and then completed the clean up. It was mid week before feeling fully returned to my thumb, and it was rather difficult to discern how swollen the knuckle was because that’s my weather sensitive thumb, rather arthritic from the time an errant cow wrapped my thumb, backwards, around a post. All is good. It was the right thumb and I am right handed, surprising how many times I flinched when preforming ordinary things like using the zipper on my jacket.

And I planted more trees! As I dig the hole to drop in another fruit tree, these are really shrubs, haskaps, I think back to Mr. Bergen, a friend of my fathers. He was really old when we had the conversation- probably as old as I am now!- when I challenged him about planting an apple tree when he would likely never get to eat the fruit. Understanding youth, he assured me he was planting them for his children and grandchildren, planting them for food and pleasure. And so I plant. Then I got permission to plant a boulevard tree, and I was delighted to research the best soil and amend the soil to try to guarantee success. I did get my oldest son to align the spot with the existing trees, nothing like a straight line! “I think that I shall never see a poem as lovely as a tree”, Joyce Kilmer.

My days are filled with quiet pleasures. The garden is growing, more slowly than I expected. Spinach salads fresh from the garden, hot radishes, and mini cucumbers. All the while watching the strawberries blooming, the raspberries stretching in all directions, the gooseberries really set well, as did the apples, and the grapes. There are times when I wonder if it may be time to cut back, especially after I had to fence my front garden to keep the rabbits out! Watching fruits and vegetables grow, enough for summer dining, sharing with family, and even processing some for winter enjoyment is rewarding for me. With smaller, often raised, garden spaces, I can clean one or two areas in minutes, and never feel overwhelmed.And then, just because I can and I wanted to, I painted the back garage door. That meant oil based paint for metal. Fortunately I already was outside, so ventilation wasn’t an issue. Cleaning the brushes and rollers , different story! Easy summer days.

My second Christmas

As the title of this column suggests, I celebrate two Christmases each year.

The first Christmas is celebrated on December 25. Christmas Day is the one day each year when Kathryn and I can get most of our family together for a dinner and gift exchange. And last year, thanks to some recent additions to our family, we had a very full house; and I am expecting that it will be just as full this coming Christmas.

My second Christmas (sarcasm intended) is brought on by three huge trees that live in my front yard. They are among the tallest and most majestic trees in Neepawa; but I do not own them. They are “heritage trees;” proudly owned by the people of Neepawa. They are inspected regularly by the Town’s Public Works staff and any pruning that needs to be done is done when Town staff aren’t busy with other things.

Those trees are cottonwood poplars and every

year, from late June to midJuly, they go to seed; and my front lawn is covered with a coat of white fluff that makes it look like my lawn has received about an inch of snow. Hence the term “my second Christmas.” When this fluff falls, I get out my hand tools and lawn mower, rake it into piles, put it into black plastic garbage bags, vacuum and bag the remnants with my lawn mower and send everything to the landfill. This year’s harvest was seven black garbage bags full of seeds. Now don’t get me wrong. While I find these seeds annoying, and while I have to wear a mask while raking, vacuuming and bagging them to protect me from the nasal congestion the fluff can cause, I know that I can’t blame the trees. They

are cottonwood poplar trees and they are doing what God created cottonwood poplar trees to do. Thankfully, the annoyance doesn’t last more than a week or two. For the rest of the year, I am able to enjoy the beauty and majesty of those trees. I know they won’t last forever. One day, they will weaken and one day they will die. But until that day comes, they will decorate the street on which I live. And; every year around this time, they will remind me that there are many things in God’s creation that are more powerful than I am; and that God is more powerful than anything or anyone on this earth.

Today’s newspapers, TV shows and YouTube posts are filled with predictions

of doom and gloom. They include warnings of the drastic consequences we may experience if we fail to elect the candidate of “their” choosing in the next election. From the way these pieces are worded, you’d think that the world could come to an end the morning after the vote.

When I hear or read these statements, all I need to do is look at the poplar trees that adorn my front yard. They have survived numerous federal, provincial and municipal elections; and they are still standing tall and strong, watching over their part of God’s world.

So is the God who created them. Politicians come and go. Political parties may win one election only to lose another. But God never changes. He is in charge, still in control, still watching over and caring for all he has made-just as he has been; and just as he will be until that day, known only to him, when this world actually will come to an end.

Looking back with the Beautiful Plains Museum: It’s nice to have ice delivery

Thumbs up, thumbs down

A big “Thumbs Up” to Tom Yerex for all the excellent chainsaw wood carvings on display on his lot in Bernie, Manitoba. A real super job, Tom!!

Larry Novak, Neepawa, MB.

Thumbs Up to President Glenda MacPhee and the Neepawa Garden Club and their volunteers for their refurbishing of the Elizabeth Street Park and the renaming of it to be the “Brent Hunter Memorial Park”. P.S. They always need more volunteers.

Dave & Myra Bennet Neepawa, MB.

Thanks to Norma Forsman at the Beautiful Plains Archives for access to this historic look at the way things were. The top photo is Mr. M. Murray and his crew cutting ice on Park Lake. The second one is Mr. Murray with his delivery wagon.

Thumbs up to the Neepawa Lions Club for once again allowing us to use the Stoney Creek School down at Riverbend Park to teach our students about life as a Pioneer. The kids had fun and learned a lot! Much appreciated. The Grade 2 Teachers at HMK School Neepawa, MB

Thumbs up to Roland and Sandra Unger for hosting the family church BBQ Lenda Jerome and Renee Yochmans Neepawa, MB

Would you like to send a thumbs up or thumbs down to an individual or group in the community? Please send it our way. Submissions must include a name and must be under 100 words. We want to hear from you! In person: 423 Mountain Ave. Neepawa By fax: 204-476-5073 By email: news@neepawabanner.com

In person: 423 Mountain Ave. Neepawa By fax: 204-476-5073 By email: news@neepawabanner.com

Neil Strohschein

out of helen’s kitchen Helen Drysdale

The summer kitchen

At one time, when there was no electricity for fans or air conditioning, and cooking was done on a wood-burning stove which radiated intense heat, many homes had “summer kitchens.” Keeping the heat and the risk of fire out of the main house made good sense and made sleeping a lot more comfortable. A summer kitchen was a small outdoor building located next to the back of a house, built to prepare, cook, bake, preserve and pickle in the hot summer months. Summer kitchens usually had large screen windows on both sides to allow any breezes to come through them. They were common on the prairie farms where the housewife would spend weeks putting up the harvest from the huge gardens they grew to feed their families during the winter.

If they did not have an extra stove for the summer house, people would disassemble their wood cook stove and move it into the summer kitchen when the weather got hot. A large barrel of water was hauled for washing vegetables and dishes. It was an important part of the living space for many homes and a centre of activity. Often the cream separator was moved to the summer kitchen as well as the butter churn. The summer kitchen helped keep the food smells out of the main house thus helped keep the flies out as well.

This recipe is a great way to use up those extra tomatoes from the garden. You can heat process (can) this recipe or just freeze in freezer safe containers. If freezing, thaw before using, and prepare the same way you would if it were canned. Do not skip the lemon juice/citric acid when canning the jars. This is there for your safety.

Homemade tomato soup

8 lbs. ripe tomatoes, unpeeled, quartered

1 cup celery, diced

2 cups onion, diced

3-4 cloves garlic

1 cup fresh parsley

4-5 bay leaves

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 Tbsp. pickling salt

1 tsp. black pepper

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup flour

Lemon juice or citric acid

Pla ce tomatoes, celery, onions, garlic, parsley and bay leaves into a large pot. Bring to a boil, stir often to prevent bottom from scorching. Once the mixture has released enough liquid to start boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook until tomatoes are tender, 30 to 40 minutes. Pour through a strainer or food mill, discard solids, and return liquid to the pot; stir in sugar, salt and pepper. Melt butter in a small pot and then stir in the flour. Add about 2 cups of the tomato juice to the flour mixture and stir well to blend. Add this mixture to the remaining juice in the pot. Cook and stir over medium heat just until tomato soup is hot. If freezing pour into freezer containers and freeze. Do not add the lemon juice/citric acid. If canning pour tomato soup into the hot, sterilized jars. To each pint (half-litre) jar, add ¼ teaspoon citric acid OR 1 tablespoon lemon juice. To each quart (litre) jar, add ½ teaspoon citric acid OR 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Run a knife around the insides of the jars to remove any air bubbles. Wipe the rims with a moist paper towel to remove any residue. Top with the lids and screw the rings on tightly. Place in a canner filled with hot water covering the jars by at least 1 inch of water. Process both size jars, pint (half-litre) and quart (litre), for 40 minutes. Start timing when it’s at a ‘rolling’ boil.

Remove jars and set them upright on a towel and cover with another towel and leave for 12 hours without moving. When ready to serve the canned tomato soup, just heat with desired amount of milk.

The Banner & Press is your reliable, local news source!

Gladstone market report

By Tyler Slawinski Gladstone Auction

Howdy cattle producers, This is Tyler Slawinski reporting from the Gladstone Auction mart for Tuesday June 25. Cool and damp seems to be the trend with the weather pattern lately. It’s surprising how the same province can be so different in certain areas, while hay is being made in one area, seeding and spraying is still going on in others, if it isn’t too wet. One thing about having a year with excess moisture, there is a good chance there is grass and if the crop won’t combine it’ll surely make feed! The market this week was fairly active, I’m sure we break records every time we have a sale! I have never seen this many slaughter cows and bulls trail to town at this time of year! Cattle fit to breed or graze are bringing prices that we have never seen and cows and bulls seem to be bringing prices from another world! Supply and demand is definitely supporting the cattle market. We sold 559 cattle though the ring in Gladstone on Tuesday. The market saw a variety of cattle, the market seemed stronger in most spots and if you compare that with the quantity and quality we are

ATTORNEY

TAMMY D. BARYLUK

Hunt Miller & Co. LLP

Attorneys-at-law

Thursdays 12:00 pm - 3:30pm 14 Main St. (HMS Office) Carberry, MB Phone 204-834-2044

seeing this time of year the market is very strong! The first cut cattle are becoming few and far between, and are still in high demand! Second and third cut cattle are now selling for all time highs! Cows and bulls traded with plenty of strength from 178.00 to 192.00 with sales to 195 with consistent averages Bulls traded with brute force ranging between 220.00 to 235.00 with sales to 245.00!

All classes of cattle sold well! Plainer type cattle, are still being discounted!

Gladstone

Auction Mart

Cattle Market Report

June 25, 2024 Steers

Here is a look at the feeder market!

Be sure to check out the updated schedule, as cattle numbers start to soften we have decided to skip every other week. This allows for more cattle sale day, and to accommodate our cattle buyer who need volume to create loads and fill orders! We will still be having one more sale on July the 9th before the summer break to clean up any cattle that are fit to market!

This has been Tyler Slawinski Reporting for the Gladstone Auction mart, and thank you for being a part of our industry!

Beautiful Plains School Division held its staff recognition evening on June 12th, 2024 at the Carberry Community Memorial Hall in Carberry. This annual event recognizes teaching staff, support staff and school trustees for long service, leaving service and retirements.

TEACHING STAFF

15 YEAR BPSD AWARD: Claudette Christison; Robyn Forsman

20 YEAR BPSD AWARD: Michael Adams; Scott Baker; Myles Cathcart; Jennifer Donais; Ryan Robson; Patricia James; Warren Wollmann

25 YEAR BPSD AWARD: Eric Gaudet; Angela Weisgerber

30 YEAR BPSD AWARD: Sylvie Tomoniko

SUPPORT STAFF

12 YEAR BPSD AWARD: Shawn Bremner; Garth Christison; Kevin Dagg; Leah Dear; Kyla de Wit; Rafael Flores; Karla MacDiarmid

15 YEAR BPSD AWARD: Greg Funk; Sharla Magwood

18 YEAR BPSD AWARD:

Heath Murray; Karen Orchard; Dian Perrett; Kim Reynolds

21 YEAR BPSD AWARD: Roy Middleton; Sonya Paterson; Robert Wahoski

Leaving Service

Michael Adams - Teacher - Neepawa Area Collegiate

Kelsey Adriaansen - EA - J.M. Young School

Allison Bailey - Teacher - Neepawa Area Collegiate

Kim Chapman - Teacher - Hazel M Kellington School

Greg Funk - Bus Driver - Arden Area

Shirley Glushek - Custodian - Brookdale School

Erin Green - Teacher - Carberry Collegiate

Alexandra Lazaruk - Teacher - Hazel M Kellington School

Peter Reid - Teacher - Neepawa Area Collegiate

Sherry Smith - EA - Fairway Colony School

Sheena Taylor - Teacher - Hazel M Kellington School

Town Council updates

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

Some of the notable discussions and updates from the most recent Neepawa Town Council meeting, held on Tuesday, June 18, included:

• Yvonne Sisley notified fellow council members of a Neepawa Habitat for Humanity meeting on Monday, June 17. The gathering was attended by a dozen people and outlined the family selection process for the project. Families who were unable to attend, but are still interested in learning more can do so by contacting Amanda Naughton-Gale at the Salvation Army or Marilyn Crewe at the Town office. As well, the application period for the second annual Children’s Business Fair has opened. The concept behind the Fair sees local youth create a product or service, build a marketing strategy around that idea and then open to customers at a one-day marketplace. The ideas and sales were then judged by a group of local community and business leaders. The Children’s Business Fair will be held on Aug. 15 at the Yellowhead Centre. Additional information has been shared on the Town’s social media.

• Jason Nadeau reported that the most recent meeting of the Rossburn Trail Association took place on June 6. The trail group recently took over the mowing of the trail to ensure consistency and to assist the municipalities with a cost saving. A mower has been purchased, along with the rental of a tractor from a Neepawa based implement dealer for a two month period.

• Marijka Kostenchuk attended the Home Assistance Neepawa and District (HAND) annual general meeting on June 7. One item noted was a change in equipment back in May, due to upgrades. In relation to the income tax assistance program, announced earlier this year, there were 71 returns completed by the volunteers with Prairie Mountain Health and 25 with Gary Black. A spring tea was held, and was able to bring in a profit of $498. Takeouts for the HAND Meal Program for May were 319, with 132 meals delivered and on-site meals registered at 451.

• On June 12, councillor Darryl Gerrard attended a Beautiful Plain County Courthouse meeting. He reports that there will be some cedar trees removed from the front of the Courthouse, because they are causing some damage. That decision has been made by the County Courthouse board, who has jurisdiction of those types of decisions. It is not a decision that can be made by the Town. The cost of the tree removal will be $2,700 and is the responsibly of the Courthouse board.

• Lisa Pottinger commended the staff for the Town of Neepawa for prompt action on the removal of downed tree branches, and in some cases, entire trees due to the massive thunderstorm that recently passed through the region.

• Deputy Mayor Murray Parrott mention that himself, and other representatives of the Town attended the June District meeting held in Minotia. On June 5, there was a meeting with Manitoba Minster of Finance Adrien Sala. The needs of Neepawa were discussed. Parrott closed out his comments by confirming that Dr. Gabby Oliveira and Dr. Emma Ball will be starting their residencies program on July 1.

Prepare your business to SOAR!

Education Matters: A message from Beautiful Plains School Division

Submitted

Beautiful Plains School Division

As the board of trustees, we reflect on the many accomplishments of the 202324 school year to highlight the thriving communities our staff and students created in our schools. Our schools are rooted in the core values of Respect, Empathy, and Honesty that help guide us in creating a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. We would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the outstanding efforts and achievements across all our schools, and to express our heartfelt appreciation for the dedication and hard work of our staff who continue to be committed to our students.

In academics , our students excelled in various areas, from consistent improvements in reading, writing and numeracy to innovative learning opportunities, such as the Computer-Aided Design classes and the SEAR project in our high schools. The SEAR project integrates crop inspection through drone technology. These initiatives demonstrate our commitment to providing diverse and enriching educational experiences that are ever evolving with the world around us. An additional milestone is the 100 per cent graduation rate of our students this past June. We recognize this comes with years of parents, staff and students’ hard work and support from across our system Kindergarten to Grade 12 with every employee group creating a system of success that remains focused on our students.

Community engagement and social responsibility contribute to positive culture across our schools and communities. Volunteer activities, such as supporting the Helping Hands soup kitchen in Brandon, partnering with senior homes, “We Scare Hunger” and Christmas Cheer Drives highlight a few examples of the spirit of giving and empathy across the schools. These initiatives teach our students the importance of contributing positively to their communities.

Sports and athletics

continue to be a cornerstone of student life within the division. Our schools offer a wide range of sports, including intramurals, track and field days, traveling sports teams, house leagues and many other physical activities that take place each day. Our students have also showcased their athletic abilities at provincial levels with BPSD athletes accomplishing significant achievements across multiple sports. These activities not only promote physical health but also foster teamwork and school spirit.

Arts and cultural events provide ongoing highlights for all students and staff, with schools hosting numerous performances and creative endeavors. Whether it’s a Spring Musical, band concerts, choir performances, along with the various musical

performances, the artistic talents of our students are tremendous. Activities like the special cultural days, music festivals and Festival du Voyageur also enrich our students’ cultural understanding and appreciation of the diversity around us.

Extracurricular activities play a vital role in creating memorable school experiences. From the camp trips to field trips, these experiences foster a sense of adventure and camaraderie.

Clubs and groups, such as the peer mentors/tutors, student philanthropy, social justice, student council, and the BPSD Student Perspective Panel provide platforms for students to develop leadership skills and pursue their passions.

As we celebrate these achievements, we must acknowledge the many different staff groups whose dedication, flexibility and ongoing work makes all these successes possible.

This commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment ensures that every student can thrive. We extend our deepest gratitude to our teachers, administrators, and all of the support staff across the division for the tireless efforts and the positive impact the hard work has on our students’ lives.

The 2023-24 school year in the Beautiful Plains School Division has been marked by remarkable achievements, vibrant community engagement, and a steadfast commitment to our core values of Respect, Empathy, and Honesty. Together, we continue to build a bright future for our students, empowering them to succeed and make meaningful contributions to society. We look forward to another year of growth, learning, and celebration.

Thank you on behalf of the Board of Trustees and Senior Administration Team

Sherry Hanna named Big Grass Marsh Citizen of the Year

Hats off to Sherry Hanna of Gladstone who has won the 2024 Big Grass Marsh Citizen of the Year award. The Citizen of the Year award is presented annually by the Big Grass Community Foundation. It’s given to an individual, organization or business within the municipality of Westlake -Gladstone that has made a significant contribution and whose volunteer efforts, achievements or contributions have made a positive impact on our community.

Playground being installed at Touchwood Park

Some significant progress this week for the Touchwood Park Accessible Playground Project. On Wednesday, June 26, several pieces of equipment were being installed, along with the pouring of the concrete to support the pieces. Additional details on the finalization of this project will appear in a upcoming edition of the Banner & Press.

Minnedosa Museum & Heritage Village grounds

TOP PICTURE FROM EOIN DEVEREUX.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAT CARROTHERS

Neepawa Area Collegiate 2024 Graduation Ceremony

Neepawa to host 2nd annual Children’s Business Fair

By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press

A youth event that surpassed expectations last year is returning to Neepawa in 2024. Neepawa Economic Development will be hosting the second annual Children’s Business Fair on Thursday, Aug. 10 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Yellowhead Hall. This event is put on with support from the Acton Academy and the Acton Next Great Adventure, inviting youth to showcase their very own business idea to the public.

Last year’s inaugural Children’s Business Fair

featured 20 different youth start-up businesses and was attended by hundreds of members of the general public who showed support, as well as made purchases from the booths. A combined total of $3,727.25 had been made from the sales that year.

“[The response last year] was much better than I expected,” said Marilyn Crewe, Neepawa’s economic development officer.

“[This year], I am planning for 25 booths.”

In preparation of opening their business for the one-day market place, youth who participate will

develop a brand, create a product or service and build a marketing strategy. Then, ultimately, sell their product or service at the market.

A few of the businesses that were found at last year’s fair are: Pug’s Parfait, Sugar Cloud and Bracelet Besties.

“This is a great opportunity for kids to try their hand at running their own business,” Crewe enthused.”

Those who wish to apply to participate in the 2024 Children’s Business Fair, or to learn more, may do so via www.childrensbusinessfair. org/neepawa.

Area Collegiate Institute’s

for the Class of 2024 was held on Tuesday, June 25 at the Yellowhead Centre. The arena portion of the facility was filled to near capacity with students, teachers, friends and family there to help celebrate the student’s special day. The Valedictorian Address was given by Jillian Perrett (centre picture), who discussed all the challenges this year’s class faced through the years, but how they were able to overcome those obstacles. Congratulations to the Class of 2024 and best wishes and success to you all in the future.

PHOTOS BY EOIN DEVEREUX Neepawa

Graduation Ceremony

Farm commodity prices

By Shawn Cabak Manitoba Agriculture

In April, prices for wheat (excluding durum) varied across the provinces compared with March. On a year-over-year basis, prices for wheat dropped in all provinces, with Manitoba (-23.2 per cent) and Sas

katchewan (-23.2 per cent) leading the declines.

Alberta (+7.7 per cent) reported the largest increase in canola prices after posting seven consecutive monthly price declines. The increase in canola prices was supported by strong domestic crushing and higher prices for vegetable oils in April. On a year-overyear basis, however, canola prices declined in all provinces in April, with Ontario (-23.3 per cent) posting the largest drop.

Compared to last year, oat prices rose in most provinces, with Manitoba (+12.8 per cent) reporting the largest growth, followed by Saskatchewan (+12.3 per cent). Stocks of oats fell by 50.9 per cent year over year in March. This decrease was largely caused by low production during the 2023 growing season, resulting in a lower supply.

Year over year, feeder cattle prices were at least 20 per cent higher in April. Slaughter cattle monthly prices rose across all provinces in April, except in British Columbia. The gains ranged from 0.7 per cent in Saskatchewan to 5.6 per cent in Alberta. Slaughter cattle prices were at least 11.1 per cent higher in April compared with the same month in 2023. The declining cattle herd was the primary contributor to the price increases. Fat steers and heifers traded for $2.64/lb last week in Alberta, valuing a 1,500 lb animal at $3,960.

Manitoba Crop Pest Update

Submitted Manitoba Agriculture

Summary

Insects: Flea beetles continue to be of concern, and there has been foliar insecticide applications for flea beetles in all agricultural regions to some degree. Cutworms continue to be found, however they are becoming less of an issue in some regions as we get into late-June. There were increased levels of moths in the diamondback moth traps in the Central, Eastern and Interlake regions during the weeks of June 2 to 8 and June 9 to 15.There has also been an increase in moths in the true armyworm traps in recent weeks, particularly in the Eastern, Interlake and Central regions. Wireworm damage to corn was noted in a field in the Central region. Some seedcorn maggots have been reported in sunflowers, but no serious damage

Disease: This week has not yielded reports of new pathogenic diseases in field crops in Manitoba. However, there has been a report of stripe rust being found in North Dakota, in both winter wheat and spring wheat. Will that be a concern here? Most of the questions coming to me and to Kim Brown, Weed Specialist, have been from some form of abiotic injury.

Weeds: Spraying continues across the province despite continuing challenging conditions, with rainfall, wet fields and high winds making things difficult. We have a wide range in crop stages, some crops are just emerging while earliest seeded crops are done herbicide spraying. Weed growth has slowed somewhat due to the cooler wet weather but some weeds are approaching or beyond the maximum stage for herbicide application.

Entomology

Late-June Insect Scouting Priorities: As we get into late-June, some of our earlyseason insects will become less of a concern, and others may emerge to become bigger concerns. Our cutworms that have their larval stages early in the growing season will be turning to pupae; some of this has probably started to happen already, and will continue over the next couple of weeks. Continue to watch for cutworm damage in later emerging crops. Given the cooler temperatures this May and June, there still could be high enough populations to cause economic damage for another one to two weeks. Cutworms can sometimes be quite variable in their staging within a field.

Adults of crucifer and striped flea beetles, which have survived the winter before feeding on crucifer-

ous plants in the spring, will be laying eggs and a decline in population will become noticeable as we get into late-June. Once again, keep an eye on late emerging crops until the end of the month.

Larvae of armyworms, sometimes called true armyworms, are just starting to be noticed in the Interlake region, and may be present in grassy crops and plant stands in other regions as well. No crop damage has been noted so far. Based on trap counts, armyworms are an insect that would be good to monitor carefully in cereals and forage grasses starting soon.

Diamondback moth larvae on canola are another insect to assess when scouting canola, particularly if you start to see feeding on plants that is obviously not from flea beetles. Look for small green caterpillars,

about 12 mm long when fully grown, that wriggle backwards quickly when disturbed and may drop from the plant on a silken thread.

In alfalfa, we are currently noticing some alfalfa weevils, adults and young larvae, and pea aphids when we have been doing our sweeps for our beneficial insects survey. Pea aphids are less likely to be an issue in alfalfa in a wetter year like this, but can become an issue in peas later in the season. When peas get into the flowering stage, later in the season, look for pea aphids in the crop. More information on scouting for pea aphids will be provided closer to flowering time.

Report compiled by John Gavloski, David Kaminski, Kim Brown Entomologist, Field Crop Pathologist, Weeds Specialist, Manitoba Agriculture.

Insect trap counts and forecast

Submitted

Manitoba Agriculture

Diamondback moth:

A network of pheromonebaited traps are being monitored across Manitoba in May and June to determine how early and in what levels populations of diamondback moth occur.

Diamondback moths have been found in 75 out of 92 traps that counts were reported from. Trap counts have generally been low so far in the Northwest and Southwest regions. Some moderate to high counts have occurred in the Eastern, Central and Interlake regions. Traps counts in these regions increased over the weeks of June 2-8 and June 9-15.

The highest cumulative trap count so far is 210 from a trap near Stead in the Eastern region.

Larvae of diamondback moth have been noticed in

some regions, but no high levels have been reported yet. Look for diamondback moth larvae when doing crop scouting in canola or other cruciferous crops, particularly in the Eastern half of Manitoba and Interlake region. Highest counts in each region and a monitoring summary are updated weekly on the Insect Page of the Manitoba Agriculture website at: https://www.gov.mb.ca/ agriculture/crops/insects/ pubs/diamondback-mothmonitoring-june- 20-2024. pdf

True Armyworms :

Larvae of armyworms (Mythimna unipuncta), sometimes also called true armyworms, can cause significant feeding injury to cereals and forage grasses when levels are abundant.

Adult moths of armyworms migrate to Manitoba in the

spring from overwintering sites from the southern US.

A network of pheromonebaited traps are being monitored from early-May until late-July to determine how early and in what levels populations of armyworms have arrive.

Counts have been low so far in the western regions of Manitoba, with some moderate counts in the Central region. Some higher counts have occurred in some of the traps in the Eastern and Interlake regions. Counts gradually got higher over a few week period in the Central, Eastern and Interlake regions, peaking during the week of June 9- 15.

The highest cumulative count is 411, from a trap near Dencross in the Eastern region. There are some areas in the Central, Eastern and Interlake regions where looking for larvae of armyworms while scouting cereals and forage grasses

would be good to prioritize. Highest counts in each region of Manitoba and a monitoring summary are updated weekly on the Insect Page of the Manitoba Agriculture website at: https://www.gov.mb.ca/ agriculture/crops/insects/ pubs/true-armyworm-trapresults-06-19-2024.pdf

A map showing armyworm counts from Manitoba, Eastern Canada, and several Northeast U.S. states is available at : https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/71 64d23d488246d198 dcf7a07d8c9021/page/ Home/?views=Welcome Go to the link “TAW”. The “Play” button at the bottom can be set so the map automatically advances (click middle arrow), or set to “Stop” and the arrows at either side of the button used to go forward or backward a week at a time.

www.patersons.ca

Neepawa U13 (Funk) win Midwest Baseball Regionals

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

Despite both Neepawa U13 Baseball teams playing some truly exceptional ball this past weekend at the Midwest Regionals, only one was going to be able to claim the championship banner. That prize would ultimately go to Neepawa U13 (Funk), who were able to hold on and pick up a 12-9 win over Neepawa U13 (Chudley), on Sunday, June 23.

U13 Funk jumped out to an early lead, and were up 12-5 going into the bottom of the fifth. U13 Chudley did make things interesting, however, scoring four times in the final three innings, while also shutting down Funk’s offensive efforts. It wouldn’t be enough though, as U13 Funk held on for the win and the Regional title.

Good news for both squads, however, as their successes over the course of the season has earned them each a spot in the upcoming Provincial Baseball Championships in July. Best of luck to both teams.

BY

Above pictures (top row): The Neepawa U13 (Funk) Baseball Club, went a perfect 3-0 over the weekend, including a 12-9 win over Neepawa U13 (Chudley) in the final, to claim the Midwest Regional banner. U13 Chudley had a solid weekend as well, going 2-1, and along with Funk, (pictured in bottom row) have earned at position in the Provincial Baseball Championships, set for July.

Rivers defeat Hamiota at U11 Regionals in Neepawa

BY

The Rivers Comets are the 2024 11U Midwest Regional Champions, having collected a thrilling 4-3 win over Hamiota on Sunday, June 23 in Neepawa.. The team went 15-0 during the season combined between the regular season and regionals. They will advance to the Tier II Provincials in Reston July 5-7.

Around the Santa Clara Baseball League

Submitted Neepawa Banner & Press

The Portage Padres just keep on rolling. with an 11-4 win over the Neepawa Cubs, on Monday, June 24.

The Padres now sit at 8-1-1 with five games to go. Neepawa drops to 5-3-1 and slide into third place after Plumas picked up a 5-1 win over Austin. Plumas moves up to 7-3, meanwhile Austin drops to 4-7. Minnedosa out slugged Carberry 25-11 as the Mavericks move out of the basement into fifth place at 3-8. Carberry drops to 3-8 as well, but lost the season series to the Mavericks.

In Minnedosa, Andrew Richards went 4-4 with 2 HR, including a Grand Slam, 4R and 7RBI to pace the Mavericks to their 2nd straight victory. Liam Bachewich had a night going 4-5 with 3 RBI and 6 runs scored. Devin Foord also went 4-5 with 4 runs scored. Austin Taylor threw a complete game victory for the Mavericks, striking out 7 and only walking one.Taylor also scored 4 runs to help his cause. Carberry had the hungry 9, and managed to blast 3 homeruns, including Cory Billeart, Kolby Wiebe, and Trey Dickson. Dickson went 4-5 with 2 runs scored for Carberry. Billeart took the loss throwing 4 innings. He was 2-4 with a walk

the plate.

In Austin, Riley McBride was a star defensively and offensively for Plumas.He threw a complete game 5 hitter while striking out 9. Offensively, McBride helped himself going 2-4 with a single and double and 2 runs scored. Zac Yandeau was good going 3-4 with a

2 RBI and 1

PHOTO

EOIN DEVEREUX

PHOTOS

EOIN DEVEREUX

What a weekend for Neepawa Baseball/Softball!

U11 Girls compete at Provincials, U15 Boys win Midwest Regionals

It was a hectic weekend for Neepawa Baseball and Softball teams, not just here at home ,but around the province. First, the U11 girls (photo on left) played in the Softball Manitoba Provincial U11 Championship tournament at Buhler Recreation Park in Winnipeg. They had an intense tiebreaker game for game one, but came up short, lost their second game, but then won their two games, to end their participation with a 2-2 record! Great weekend girls! Meanwhile, the U15 Neepawa boys (picture on right) were in Hamiota for the Midwest Regionals. The championship banner was awarded to Neepawa after their 11-3 victory over Minnedosa in the finals. Neepawa will be the Midwest representative at Tier 2 provincials this year. Congrats to both clubs on their successes.

MJHL eliminating player draft in 2025

Manitoba prospect greater choice on what MJHL program they feel would be the best fit for their individual development path.

Going forward beginning with 2009 born Manitoba Prospects: Eligible to sign with any member MJHL team beginning for the

2023 MJHL Draft (2007’s): Any auto-protect / draft pick who remains unsigned by the team they were drafted by will be eligible to sign with any other MJHL team as of August

2024 MJHL Draft (2008’s): Any auto-protect /draft pick who remains unsigned by the team they were drafted by will be eligible to sign with any other MJHL team as of Aug. 1, 2025.

The Manitoba Junior Hockey League is one of nine Junior ‘A’ Hockey

Leagues in Canada and is a proud member of the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL). Currently,

are thirteen (13) member franchises in the MJHL.

CLASSIFIEDS

TO PLACE AN AD:

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

Yard Sale

Garage Sale #1 - 331 Ellen Street, across from Neepawa Post Office Saturday, June 29th 10-4 pm

GARAGE SALE Satrday, July 20 th 9-3. Rain date Sunday, July 21st 9-3. 251 - 4th St. SW Minnedosa.

Wanted

Wanted: 4 cyl automatic transmission inexpensive car or minivan. Safetied. 204-771-3819.

Recreation

ATV’S, ATV’S, ATV’S. www.rodsatvs.com Best prices in Manitoba on New kids/adult ATV’S, DIRTBIKES, DUNE BUGGIES, UTV’S, GOLF CARTS, SCOOTERS, MOBILITY SCOOTERS AND KIDS ELECTRIC RIDE ON TOYS $299. Kids ATV $1999, Kids Dirt Bike $1199. Kids Dune Buggy $1999. New 4 Seater Golf Cart $9475. Text or phone 204-724-2438. Email rodsatvs@hotmail.com

Obituary

Emil (Emiall) Bulas

After many years coping with Parkinsons, it is with sadness to announce the passing of Emil (Emiall) Bulas, age 87 yrs, on June 20, 2024 at Neepawa Country Meadows Care Home.

Emil was the second child of four siblings born to John & Nellie (nee: Zuke) Bulas in the district of Alonsa, MB on Oct.17, 1936.

After completing his early school days in Alonsa, Emil continued to Brandon College of Agriculture. In his early years he had a keen interest in wildlife, curling, hockey & all the surrounding community dances. It was at one of these dances where he met Carol Elizabeth Walker of Plumas, MB whom he married on August 3, 1963. They carried on the Bulas family farm in Alonsa until 1966 when they moved to Plumas to expand the family farm with Carol’s parents, Philip & Natalie Walker. In 2002 Emil & Carol semi-retired to a home in Plumas but continued their involvement with daily farm activities.

Emil was baptized into Christian faith at St. George’s Catholic Church by Alonsa & was confirmed in the faith at Zion Lutheran Church in Plumas. He was the volunteer groundskeeper of Tupper Cemetery for many years. Emil devoted countless hours to pruning his apple trees in their fruit garden as well as taking an interest in different rose varieties. He had a very giving heart & was always looking to share his fruit crops if he knew a person could make a pie or two! Apple, saskatoon or both, it didn’t matter. Family dinners were always treasured & only complete with a cookie or two even after dessert! He always enjoyed spending time with the four grandchildren & attended many of their special concerts or achievements. He was recognized as a hard worker but took time to enjoy a deep interest in nature & its creatures only to pass this love on to his family. He could strike up a conversation with almost any stranger & discuss mutual acquaintances. His sense of humor was displayed in his story telling, usually regarding his great fishing or hunting adventures.

Emil is predeceased by his wife of almost 53 years, Carol (2016). His parents John (1967) & Nellie (1972) Bulas. Beloved brothers Joseph (2003) & Walter Bulas (2001). As well as many other family members, in-laws, cousins & friends who have gone on before. He’s survived by Darrin (Christina) Bulas, Timothy & Ella. Twila(John) Schultz, Suzanne (Owen) & Carly-Jo. His remaining sibling, sister Darlene Moar as well as sister-in-law Diann Bulas. Also mourning his loss are many nieces, nephews & close friends.

Sincere thanks to the Drs. & staff of Country Meadows Care Home in Neepawa, Gladstone Health Center, Prairie Mountain Health, for their kindness & compassion. As well as the home care staff from years ago, who always brightened & uplifted the day.

Emil’s funeral was held June 25, 2024 at Zion Lutheran Church in Plumas, MB. His earthly remains are laid to rest beside Carol in the Tupper Cemetery where, through baptismal grace, await the joy of resurrection at the coming of Our Lord. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be forwarded to Parkinsons Society of Manitoba or Concordia Lutheran Seminary-Edmonton. Many thanks to Clarke’s Funeral Home GladstoneMacGregor for their excellent service and compassionate care of arrangements.

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

Tender

Hay Tender Minto-Odanah

Tender Deadline: Don't miss out on this opportunity. Tenders close at the end of the business day (17:00) on July 9, 2024. Act now to secure your bid. Property Details: ¼ section with 70 acres of alfalfa timothy mix. ¼ section with 100 acres of alfalfa.¼ section with 100 acres of alfalfa. Note: The acreages provided are estimates.Contact Information: Bid sheets, special provisions, and drone photos of the properties can be obtained by emailing louisgwilson@gmail.com. You can text or call Louis Wilson at 431-362-3042 for further details.

Personal

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

Livestock

Polled Hereford yearling bulls. Vern Kartanson. Minnedosa. 204-867-7315 or 204-867-2627

For Sale or Rent

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

Thank you

On behalf of the blended Jackson-Rogers family, I give thanks to many across our community who have expressed their heartfelt condolences on our loss of Ruby Jo-Anne Rogers whom we all loved dearly.

Mary Ellen and her crew made Jo’s last hours peaceful in her passing, much appreciated.

To all those who gave us remembrance cards, gifts of food, and well wishes, many thanks.

Lastly, but certainly not least, to Reverend Chad and all those who made Jo’s final services a fitting and loving farewell to a life lived to its fullest.

- Ken Rogers and families

Cleo Paramor (nee Hildebrand)

Cleo Paramor (nee Hildebrand) passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family on March 20, 2024.

Cleo was born May 30, 1939, daughter of Helen Hildebrand and C. O. Baker. She grew up in a large family on the farm near Douglas, Mb. It was there that she developed her love of sport and her competitive nature.

Mom was always known for her love of baseball, having played, coached and cheered many games. If there was a Jays game on, she was watching (!), quite often while doing one of her craft projects, painting ceramics, bead art or crochet. When not crafting, she could be found at a games table, playing cards, bingo, trivia or board games. She enjoyed all the visitors who came to “play” during her last months and weeks with us, especially her kids and grandkids. Always remember, there are no friends at the card table!

Mom will be remembered for her time working at “the bar”, the store in Arden and volunteering for the many committees that needed help.

Mom is survived by her five children, Ron Brodie (Susan Sutter), Lynn Boyd (Lane, deceased), Ben Brodie, Jackie Paramor (John) and Deb Thorkelsson (Kent). Mom has 10 grandchildren, Alexander and Marcus Brodie, Jeramy and Naomi Boyd, Ryan and Melissa Brodie, Walter, Lorne and Elizabeth Paramor, and Erik Thorkelsson. Mom also has 12 great grandchildren and 2 great granddaughters. Mom is also survived by her brother Ken, sisters Jenny and Shirley, many nieces and nephews and many in-laws and outlaws. She was predeceased by her parents, husband Leonard, three brothers and one sister, and by many in-laws and outlaws.

A memorial service will be held Friday, July 5, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Lansdowne Park, Arden, MB.

All family and friends are welcome to attend. Please bring a lawn chair (and maybe an umbrella if it looks like rain).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Palliative Care in Neepawa or your area.

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

For Sale

Columbarium niche in Neepawa Cemetery $2000 not including name plaque or opening. For further information call 204-476-3094

For Rent

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

Auctions

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

Notice

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

Notice

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings currently being held at 342 Mountain Ave, Neepawa, Thursdays at 7 pm. Call 204841-0002

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

Coming Events

Come and enjoy Cowboy poetry July 4 at 7:00 p.m. at Carberry E. Free Church 409 Toronto St Carberry, MB. Donations taken, all proceeds going to performers. Coffee and dessert served after program. Everyone welcome. Call for info 204-476-0733. No tickets needed.

Huge yard sale in Alonsa. West of the school. Fri., June 28 to Mon., July 1. 9am - 6pm daily. You won't be disappointed! Call 204767-2091

Elvin Leonard Grudeski (El) June 1, 1955 - June 11, 2024

El passed away peacefully in his home on June 11, 2024 at age 69.

A graveside service for El will be held on Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024 at 1:30 pm in the McCreary Catholic Cemetery, McCreary, MB. Lunch and time of fellowship will follow in the McCreary Legion Hall.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations may be made in memory of El to the CancerCare MB Foundation Sneath-Strilchuk - McCreary Chapel 204-447-2444 • Tributes: www.sneathstrilchuk.com

Paul Charles Burelle 1928 – 2024

Paul passed away in Neepawa, Manitoba June 11, 2024. He was born in Meadow Portage, Manitoba where he grew up on a cattle ranch. In the wet years, he was forced to sell the cattle and went to work for M.T.S. in Winnipeg in 1953.

He met and married his wife Mary (McArther) in 1954. They resided in Winnipeg for 2 years, then moved back to the ranch when conditions were better in 1956. They lived there until 1981 when they sold and moved to Neepawa, Manitoba.

Paul leaves to mourn , his loving wife Mary of 69 years.

One daughter Valerie Burelle, one grandson Justin Burelle, one great granddaughter Kenzie Harper Burelle, numerous nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by his parents Orise and Joseph Burelle, brothers: Louis and Ernest and baby Geo. Burelle.

Sisters: Annette Jenotte, Margaret Sullivan, Vivian Tucker and Marie Mallabar. Brother in laws: Joe Jeanatte, Niel Sullivan, Doug Mallabar and Stanly Tucker, Sister in laws: Margaret Burelle and Kay Burelle.

Paul and Mary wintered in Magic Valley and Rancher Park Weslaco, Texas for 29 years and travelled all over the world.

Cremation has take place.

Private burial to follow in Riverside Cemetery, Neepawa. If Tears Could Build A Stairway

If tears could build a stairway and memories were a lane we would walk right up to heaven and bring you home again.

Our hearts will ache in sadness and secret tears still flow. What it meant to lose you no one can ever know.

But now we know you want us, to mourn for you no more.

To remember all the happy times, life still has much in store.

Since you'll never be forgotten, we pledge to you today.

A hallow place within our hearts is where you'll always stay!

OUR TEAM IS GROWING!

Heritage Co-op is accepting applications for a DELI MANAGER TRAINEE

to join our Food Team with Food Stores in Brandon, Minnedosa, Rivers, Sandy Lake, and Erickson

Who We Are Co-op does business differently. As a co-operative, we believe in working together to serve Western Canadians, delivering profits back to our communities and investing in sustainable growth.

With over 500 Team Members, Heritage Co-op serves communities of Brandon, Minnedosa, Wawanesa, Erickson, Rivers, Sandy Lake and Strathclair. Our locations include Gas Bars, Food Stores, Home Centres, Bulk Petroleum and Agro sites. To learn more about who we are and how you can help bring our brand to life, visit us at www.heritageco-op.crs Our core Values are Integrity, Excellence and Responsibility

What you’ll do

The Deli Manager Trainee will perform a variety of responsibilities in the operation, ensuring alignment with our Core Values and Brand.

Key responsibilities include:

• Understanding and following Heritage Co-op’s Safety and Health Program and promoting a Culture of Safety including all Food Safety standards

• Providing exceptional Guest service to our Members and Guests, and living by our Brand expectations through our “You’re at Home Here” motto

• Collaborate with Team Leaders on displays and store projects

• Work with department Team Leaders and Business to Consumer Operations Manager to learn day to day operations

• Production, packaging and merchandising of product

• Complete administrative duties for Food Stores as required

T his position requires the use of equipment, including knives, as well as heavy lifting of product.

Who You Are

• You have exceptional Guest service skills with a positive attitude

• You have strong attention to detail as well as interpersonal and organizational skills

• You have previous Guest Service or leadership experience

• You have the ability to work effectively with others

• You have excellent leadership skills

• You are available to work flexible hours, which will include days, evenings, and weekends

• You’re aligned with our Values

What We Offer

A competitive Compensation and Benefit Package: Our Team Members receive competitive salaries a comprehensive benefits package which includes Group Life Insurance, Short- & Long-Term Disability, Extended Health and Dental. and an employer-contributed pension plan, matched at 6% of salary.

Inclusive Work Environment: At Co-op, we embrace diversity and inclusion, and we’re working to create a workplace that is as diverse as the communities we serve. We support and provide an environment that allows all to bring their whole selves to work.

Professional Development: We encourage our team members to take advantage of learning opportunities, to grow and develop and to foster a culture of teamwork and innovation.

Additional Offerings: Team Member Purchase Rebate Program, Team Member Volunteer Incentive Program, Home Centre Preferred Pricing, EFAP (Employee and Family Assistance Program), Team Member Fitness Rebate of up to $100 per year towards health/fitness purchases –Heritage Co-op values Team Members’ wellbeing. At Heritage Co-op, we strive to be an employer of choice by creating a culture our Team Members want to be a part of and supporting a healthy work-life balance.

If you are interested in this position, please visit www.heritageco-op.crs and click on Careers-Join Our Team! This position will remain open until filled.

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected to continue in the recruitment process will be contacted.

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

Heritage Co-op is accepting applications for the position of Ag Mechanic at our Brandon Agro location, MB. Kindly visit our website for more information. www.heritageco-op.crs

Auction Sales

McSherry Auction Service Ltd.

Online McSherry Auction Skidsteer, Tractor & Equip. for John Karatchuk Closing Date; July 23rd at 7:00PM Arborg, MB • John 204-376-5037

12 Kubota SVL 90 Skidsteer on Tracks 1293 Hours, JD 6200 Cab 3PH 5500 Hours, Quick Attach Rake Up Grapple Skidsteer Attach., Dymax Timberwolf 14’’ Hyd. Tree Shear/Feller Buncher Skidsteer Attach.

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 25 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

HyL ife 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

FOR SALE BY TENDER

Please accept our invitation to submit a sealed, written tender for the respective property situated within the Town of Neepawa, in the Province of Manitoba, and described below to be received by: TAYLOR LAW PATERSONS LLP

Box 309, 269 Hamilton Street Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0

Attention: MATTHEW B. BLUNT

Telephone: 204-476-2336

Facsimile: 204-476-5783 mblunt@patersons.ca

Civic Address of the property is as follows: 333 Main Street, Neepawa, MB, R0J 1H0

Title No. 3221109/5

CONDITIONS OF TENDER

1. Interested parties must rely on their own inspection and knowledge of the property and not on any representations made by or on behalf of the Vendor.

2. Tenders must be received on or before 3:30 PM on July 18, 2024.

3. Only Tenders in sealed envelopes marked “TENDER” will be considered.

4. Tenders must be accompanied by a twenty (20%) percent deposit by way of certified cheque or bank draft payable to Taylor Law Patersons LLP.

5. Highest or any Tender not necessarily accepted.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE

1. The Closing of any Purchase and Sale resulting from an acceptable Tender will take place on a mutually acceptable date for both parties (the “Closing Date”).

2. The bidder whose Tender is accepted will be required to complete an agreement covering the terms and conditions sale.

3. On acceptance of the successful Tender, the balance remaining will become payable on the Closing Date. If the balance of the accepted Tender is not paid as of the Closing Date, the deposit will be forfeited as liquidated damages and not as a penalty.

4. If a part of the Purchase Price is to be paid from the proceeds of a new Mortgage, payment of that amount may be delayed by the time required for registration of the Mortgage at Neepawa Land Titles Office and for reporting to the Mortgagee, and if so, that amount shall bear interest payable to the Vendor at the same rate as the new Mortgage until paid.

5. Possession will be provided to the Purchaser as of the Closing Date.

FOR FURTHER PROPERTY INFORMATION, AND TO SCHEDULE A VIEWING, PLEASE CONTACT THE VENDOR DIRECTLY AT (204) 212-2373. 204-467-1858 or 204-886-7027 Mcsherryauction.com

Mountain Ave. Neepawa

NOTICES

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.

URGENT PRESS RELEASES - Have a newsworthy item to announce? An exciting change in operations? Though we cannot guarantee publica-

tion, 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.

NEED STAFF? NEED CLASS 1 DRIVERS? SELLING SOMETHING? Have your blanket classified ads seen in the 31 Member Newspapers which are seen in over 368,000+ homes in Manitoba. Now booking advertising for the remainder of 2024. Plan your success! Please Call THIS NEWSPAPER NOW to book, or call MCNA at (204) 947-1691 for more details or to book ads. MCNA - Manitoba Community Newspapers Association. www.mcna.com

FEED & SEED / AGRICULTURAL

FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.

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

Rolling River School Division

PUBLIC NOTICE

Public Notice is hereby given that Rolling River School Division may conduct the following Pesticide Control Programs in 2024.

To control insect pests and rodents, pesticides such as Dragnet, Contrac Blox, Contrac Grain Bait, Rozol RTU, Dr. Doom, Temprid SC, Rocon, and Pro Ant & Roach may be used on all school division properties and in buildings. The public may send written submissions or rejections within 15 days of the publication of the Notice to the department below.

Environment and Climate

Environmental Approvals Branch Box 35 - 14 Fultz Boulevard Winnipeg, MB R3Y 0L6

Notice

Birnie Builders

NOTICE OF APPLICATION MUNICIPALITY OF McCREARY REVISED WATER AND WASTEWATER RATES McCREARY WATER AND WASTEWATER UTILITY

Birnie Builders

June 18, 2024

The Municipality of McCreary (Municipality) has applied to the Public Utilities Board (Board) for revised water and wastewater rates for the McCreary Water and Wastewater Utility (Utility) as set out in By-Law No. 07-2024, read the first time on April 16, 2024. Rates were last approved in 2018 in Board Order No. 166/18, with current rates coming into effect March 1, 2022.

The current and proposed rates are as follows:

based on 3,000 gallons. **Based on 6,000 gallons

Details of the Municipality’s application are available for review at the Municipal office or the Board’s office. Any questions concerning the application for revised rates, or the operation of the Utility, should be sent directly to the Municipality.

If you have concerns/comments regarding the Municipality’s application for water and wastewater, rates please go to www.pubmanitoba.ca and provide your comment. Please note all comments will be forwarded to the Municipality. Questions or comments should be sent on or before August 2, 2024.

The Board is the provincial regulatory agency that reviews and approves rates for water and wastewater utilities in Manitoba, with the exception of the City of Winnipeg. The Board’s review process involves:

• the Utility filing a rate application to the Board,

• a public notification of proposed rate changes,

• the Board’s review of the application through a public hearing or paper review process, and

• the issuance of an Order which outlines the Board’s decision on the rate application and the rates to be charged. The Manitoba Ombudsman has privacy guidelines for administrative tribunals. The Board is mindful of its obligations under those guidelines. Its decisions in respect of the application being considered will be sensitive to the guidelines. Personal information will not be disclosed unless it is appropriate and necessary to do so. However, the Board advises participants that these proceedings are public and that as a result, personal information protections are reduced.

The Board will then decide whether any further notice is required and whether to proceed with a public hearing or paper review process. All concerns received by the Board will be considered in the Board’s decision on rates to be charged. PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT IN CONSIDERING THIS APPLICATION, THE PUBLIC UTILITIES BOARD MAY OR MAY NOT FIND IT NECESSARY TO DETERMINE RATES DIFFERENT FROM THOSE APPLIED FOR BY THE APPLICANT.

Note: All proceedings will be conducted in accordance with the Board’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, which the Board may vary in order to constrain regulatory costs. The Rules are available at www.pubmanitoba.ca.

Frederick Mykytyshyn

Assistant Associate Secretary

Manitoba Public Utilities Board

Classified ad deadline Tuesday noon

and

Congratulations to the Class of 2024, William Morton Collegiate

Congratulations to the 2024 Warrior graduates! A ceremony in their honour was held on Friday, June 21. Along with the official ceremony, a parade was held for the grads, as well. Laci Buydens (on left) gave the Valedictory Address.

Banner & Press

is available at the many locations listed on this page. Please pick up a paper and thanks for reading the Neepawa Banner & Press. You can call us at 204-476-3401 or email us at ads@neepawabanner.com OR news@neepawabanner.com

Print jobs can be ordered at print@neepawabanner.com

Arden: Drop Box at Post Office

Birnie: Drop Box

Brandon: Available at 51 locations

Brookdale: Fraser’s

Carberry: Robin’s Nest Cafe, Drop Box on Main, Spud City Food Mart, Super Thrifty Pharmacy, Carberry Motor Inn Restaurant, East End Service.

Eden: Drop Box

Erickson: Beatty’s XTR, Co-op Home Centre, Coop Grocery, Co-op Gas, ADK’s Restaurant, Sureline, Erickson Credit Union, Erickson Elementary School, Kamminga’s Kitchen & Bakery.

Franklin: Flegers

Glenella: Drop Box at Preisentanz Store, Farmhouse Cafe.

Gladstone: Co-op C-Store, Co-op Farm, Broadfoot-Fraser Agency, Co-op Grocery, Paris Cafe, Downtown Drop Box, Tim Hortons, Smile Pinoy, Lickity Splits, Roadhouse Restaurant, Third Crossing Manor, Centennial Apartments.

Kelwood: Drop Box

Laurier: Molgat Shopping Centre

McCreary: Trickle Creek, McCreary/Alonsa Health Centre, McCreary Alpine Manor, Five & Fifty Sales & Service, Linda’s Diner, Municipality of McCreary, McCreary Tru Value.

Minnedosa: Drop Box beside Kim’s, Coop Service Station, Co-op Grocery Store, Sharon’s Cafe, Subway, Farmhouse 50, Husky Gas Station, Blazers, Minnedosa Rink, RD’s on Main, Inspire Studio, Rosie’s (Bakery), Minnedosa Pharmacy, Minnedosa Camp Ground, KS Hunters Barbershop.

Mountain Road: Drop Box

Onanole: Honeycomb B&B, Home Hardware, Municipality of Harrison Park, Fas Gas, Onanole School, plus seasonal locations

Plumas: Drop Box beside Post Office, Drop Box (Former Stride Credit Union), Plumas Stop “N” Shop, Plumas Sales & Service.

Riding Mountain: Drop Box

Ste Rose: Co-op Home Ctr, I.G.A., Shop Easy, Chicken Chef, Drop Box

Waldersee: Drop Box

Wasagaming: Arrowhead Family Resort, Lake House Boutique, Parks Canada Admin, Friends of RMNP, Elkhorn Resort.

Westbourne: Shur-Gro

Neepawa: The Mill Lifestyle, Herbs for Health, Drop Box at Taylor Paterson Law, Town of Neepawa, Serenity Hair Studio, Step into Action, Hamilton St Drop Box SE, Your Dollar Store with More, Freshmart, Vivian Hotel, Lee’s Restaurant and Drop Box, Stride Credit Union, Kinley Thomson Accounting, Super Thrifty Neepawa Pharmacy, Banner & Press Building, MNP, RBC Bank, Library, Bamboo Restaurant, Harris Pharmacy and Drop Box, Dr. Murray Optometrist, Fil-Mart, Century 21, Tim Tom Grocery, Neepawa Dental, CIBC, Brews Brothers Bistro, Lola’s Bakery, Salvation Army, Neepawa Settlement Services, Breaker 16, Coop Agro, R.M.E., Campground Office, Neepawa Golf Course, Beautiful Plains Medical Clinic, Neepawa Chiropractic, Hamilton St Drop Box NW, Safeway Drop Box, Legion, MLCC, Red Apple, Gill & Schmall Drop Box, Mull & Skye Drop Box, ArtsForward, Yellowhead Arena, Touchwood Park, Giant Tiger Drop Box, Dairy Queen, Fas Gas Drop Box, McDonalds, Chicken Chef Drop Box, Co-op Grocery, Co-op C-Store Drop Box, Subway, Tim Hortons Drop Box, Stonehouse Physio, TIC, Co-op Hardware, Farmery Brewery, KK Penner, Boston Pizza, Neepawa Motel, West Park Place Drop Box, Neepawa Tire, Neepawa Vet Clinic, Westway Motel, Westcreek Drop Box, Bay Hill Inns, Prairie Donair, Piston Ring, McLaughlin GM, Westward Ford, Home Hardware, Drop Boxes at Post Office. Plus the Neepawa Banner & Press is delivered to the senior apartments and care home.

PICTURE ON FAR LEFT COURTESY OF JOHN DRINKWATER. ABOVE PICTURES COURTESY OF WILLIAM MORTON COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE

Virden Empire Advance under new ownership

By Jessica Coulter Virden Empire Advance

Ken and Christine (nee Lobel of Virden) Waddell are pleased to announce that they have acquired the Virden Empire Advance newspaper from Glacier Media of Vancouver.

The Waddells started the Neepawa Banner newspaper in 1989 and added the Neepawa Press in 2015. They owned the Rivers Banner for over 20 years and sold it a few years ago to their grandson, Micah but have a management agreement to help operate the Rivers based paper.

The Virden paper will be staffed by Anne Davison and Jessica Coulter. Other staff may be added as the company’s growth allows.

Ken Waddell said, “We will be making a number of changes in the operation of the Empire Advance. The biggest change is that, similar to our papers at Rivers and Neepawa, the Virden paper will be

free distribution. Virden Empire Advance readers will get their paper free through various convenient locations in Virden, Oak Lake, Elkhorn, Lenore, Kenton, Cromer, Reston and Miniota.

The planned circulation is expected to expand substantially in the towns above. Outside the above listed designated areas, subscriptions will be available.

Christine Waddell said, “I am so pleased that having

grown up at Scarth and in the Virden area and having graduated from Virden High School in 1967, that we can come to Virden and invest in my home town. We are both very pumped to be able to serve the Virden area.

The Virden Empire Advance will be 140 years old in 2025, having been established in 1885. It is one of the oldest community newspapers in western Canada.

Kayak launch installed at Lake Minnedosa

There’s a new addition to the shores of Lake Minnedosa, as a new kayak launch has been installed. Erliss Stobbe and Mike Kreller began the project, after they noticed an upswing in kayak use with the lake. They found a company in Manitoba who retails them. From there, the organzation Friends Of Lake Manitoba moved forward and purchased and installed one beside the main boat launch on the East /public side of the lake. The local Kayak Club is thrilled with this new local feature.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

SUBMITTED PHOTO

June also saw the conclusion of terms on the board of directors for Brent Sorenson and Marilyn Crewe. We would like to thank each of them for their time and dedication to the community foundation over the years. Joining the board of directors in their places were Diane Patterson and Brenda Osmond. It was a pleasure to be able to welcome each of them to the board of the Beautiful Plains Community Foundati on and we look forward to the continued contribution of each of them. The Beautiful Plains Community Foundation would not be in the position it is without the work of our Executive Director, Brenda Kryschuk. Brenda moved on from the foundation in 2023, and we thank her for all the work she did. Her departure made room for our new Executive Director, Melissa Grindheim, who is already hard at work at keeping the rails on, and her contributions are already felt, thank you Melissa for keeping us on track, and for everything else you d o. Turning to 2024, plans are currently in the works for the second rendition of Dancing With The Stars to take place in early 2025, as well we will be hosting our second annual charity golf tournament in June and many other events leading up to and during the annual Giving Challenge Week in November. Please watch for more information on each of these as we get closer to the events. On behalf of the board of directors of the foundation and the community as a whole, I would like to extend a huge thank you to all those who have supported the Beautiful Plains Community Foundation over the course of the past year. Your continued generosity is appreciated more than words could ever express. We look forward to being able to continue to have a positive impact on the communities we serve thank you to your support of the Beautiful Plains Community Fou ndation. ~ Jeffrey Miner, President

Finally, we participated in The Giving Challenge, which saw the foundation raise $25,844 during the week. Thank you to all who donated during this week, it is greatly appreciated by all of us on the board of directors as well as the community as a whole as your generosity will allow the foundation to grant more and more funds into the community for many years to come. As in previous years, we once again held our annual Grant Luncheon in June of 2023, where we announced grants totaling $104,898. Of particular note; 2023 was the year that the Hospital fund, originally started at $630,941, disbursed it’s millionth dollar. This fund is an example of how individuals can make a difference, and the success of the endowment model over time. We are beyond pleased to have again been able to provide grants to organizations, events, and projects throughout the RM of Glenella-Lansdowne, RM of Rosedale, Langford portion of the RM of North Cypress-Lan gford and the Town of Neepawa.

Following the well-deserved retirement of John Lavich, we held our first annual BPCF Golf Tournament in August. It was a beautiful day and a great event, which benefitted the foundation in excess of $15 thousand. A huge thank you goes out to Danny Guillas for his hard work in making this a reality and laying the groundwork for future events.

In addition to the land project, 2023 saw the community foundation host our first Dancing with The Stars event in February, the proceeds of which were in excess of $18 thousand. A huge thank you to the volunteers: The dancers, the instructors, our panel of judges, our MC, and everyone else who made that night special. A particular round of thanks to Marilyn Crewe, and Brenda Kryschuk, who were instrume ntal in envisioning the night and making it happen.

Our land project was a success again in 2023, with the continued dedication of Jack Falk and Jamie Denbow, along with the many individuals and companies who have supported the project through to now. The overall profit for the year being just shy of $27 thousand. While the growing conditions have continued to present challenges each year, with the help of our supporters and community members we have been able to have a very successful result each year.

2023 was a successful year for the Beautiful Plains Community Foundation. With the continuation of some of our events and projects, a few new events, and a general recovery and increase in the markets following some lean years we were able to positively contribute to the bottom line of the foundation. Also of great impact, economic conditions saw interest rates rise over the course of 2023 and resulted in a positive impact on our overall endowment funds as you will note in the accompanying financial statement information. We finished the year with our overall endowment fund portfolio exceeding $5.02 million, which marks a new record for the foundation.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

MNP LLP Neepawa, Manitoba May 13, 2024

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on whether the summary financial statements is a fair summary of the audited financial statements based on our procedures, which were conducted in accordance with Canadian Auditing Standards (CAS) 810, Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements.

Auditor’s Responsibility

Email: info@beautifulplainscf.ca www.beautifulplainscf.ca

487 Walker Avenue Phone: (204) 476-2681

We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on the audited financial statements in our report dated May 13, 2024. Management’s Responsibility for the Summary Financial Statement Management is responsible of the summary financial statement in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations.

President: Jeffrey Miner Vice President: Sarah Fast Treasurer: Ashley McNaughton Jack Falk Iris Kooting Brenda Osmond Colleen Taylor Danny Guillas Dan Free Mary Ann Marquize Diane Paterson Box 476 Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0

The Audited Financial Statements and Our Report Thereon

The summary financial statement does not contain all the disclosures required by Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations. Reading the summary financial statement and the auditor’s report thereon, therefore, is not a substitute for reading the audited financial statements and the auditor’s report thereon.

In our opinion, the accompanying summary financial statement is a fair summary of the audited financial statements, in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-forprofit organizations. Summary Financial Statement

Opinion The Summary financial statement, which comprises the summary statement of financial position as at December 31, 2023, is derived from the audited financial statements of Beautiful Plains Community Foundation Inc. (the “Foundation”) for the year ended December 31, 2023.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

2023-2024

Summarized Statement of Financial Position As at December 31, 2023 Report of Independent Auditor on the Summary Financial Statement To the Community Members of Beautiful Plains Community Foundation Inc.: