Neepawa Banner & Press - Feb. 27, 2026

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Banner & Press

‘A fundamental part of our community’s DNA’

HyLife named Chamber of Commerce Business of the

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

HyLife Foods’ impact on Neepawa, in both a business and family sense, has earned the company a very special honour.

On Monday, Feb 23, the Neepawa & District Chamber of Commerce named HyLife its’ 2025 Business of the Year. The award is given every year to recognize a local businesses’ significant economic and community contributions to the town and region.

Becca Lanutan, the Executive Director of the Neepawa & District Chamber of Commerce, announced this year’s recipient. She said this award recognizes HyLife as more than just the community’s most significant employer.

“This award recognizes a business that doesn’t just operate within our borders. It has become a fundamental part of our community’s DNA,” stated Lanutan. “When this company was nominated, it wasn’t just for a list of milestones, it was a story of Neepawa’s growth as well. From driving a 23 per cent population increase to supporting over 1,600 local jobs, their impact is visible they have turned their ‘We Care’ philosophy into a community wide reality.”

Continued on Page 8

Year

Several members of the

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

Brad Mummery is blending a little bit of artistry with altruism with his latest creation. Mummery is currently airbrushing a portrait of Terry Fox, a piece he intends to donate to the organizers of Neepawa’s annual Terry Fox Run.

For Mummery, the inspiration behind creating this particular art piece is both personal and patriotic.

“I have a friend who, Terry Fox is her hero,” Mummery said. “And as well, I’ve often thought, you know, I support the run whenever it comes to town and whenever I can. And I’ve also always admired Terry, and I think he’s a Canadian icon of good. So what better way to honour Terry by doing a painting of him and having it donated to the cause.”

Mummery has set a self-imposed deadline of June to have this work completed. Once completed, the portrait will be turned over to local run organizers.

“I’ll just give it to the Terry Fox Run people, or whoever’s in charge of the Neepawa chapter, and they can do whatever they want with it, auction it off, or do whatever,” Mummery explained. “And all the proceeds can go to the fund. So hopefully they’ll get, you know, get a lot of interest drummed up for it.”

The portrait represents a significant investment of time and effort, as Mummery estimates the piece will require roughly 40 hours of work. He has spent the past six years refining his airbrush technique, a medium he describes as uniquely demanding, yet rewarding.

“I’ve done a few pieces in colour and, yeah, it’s a challenge. It’s a different challenge to sort of create the vision,” he said. “It’s just a matter of practice.

I mean, it’s just a tool, but it’s a tool that gets a result that you can’t get from other things, right?”

Partnering with NACTV Mummery will chronicle the journey of creating this particular piece with the help of NACTV. The local television station has partnered with the artist, on a program showing the process of creation.

Several half hour episodes are in the process of being filmed.

NACTV Program Director Rrain Prior told the Banner & Press that the station is very pleased to be partnering with Brad on this endeavour.

“Brad is certainly becoming a well known artist around the community, especially for his airbrush art for a cause. He’s doing Terry Fox, but he’s also [previously] honoured first responders and things like that,” Prior expressed.

“And also, I think looking back on community television throughout the years, doing shows like this, is one of the foundational types of shows that that channels like this do. We’re really excited to be

Neepawa artist honouring Canadian hero

able to bring that back with Brad and show the whole process of bringing his art to life.”

The program will begin airing on NACTV in March. Check the local listings for specific times

it will be broadcast.

But beyond artistic merit, Mummery said this portrait stands as a tribute to Terry Fox’s legacy and the community spirit that continues to drive the annual run. Through his work, Mummery hopes to contribute in a meaningful way to a cause that resonates deeply across Canada.

Brad Mummery’s airbrushed artwork can be

seen online at www.bjmfineart.com, and is available for purchase. The Fine Artist can also be commissioned to create original art pieces.

1976: Plumas boy meets Premier Ed Schreyer

By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press

125 years ago, Tuesday, February 26, 1901

A lady died recently in England and in her will it was found that she had left her whole fortune, amounting to $50,000 to the local newspaper, the perusal of which gave her many happy hours. The example of this lady may someday be followed by one or more of the wealthy ladies of Neepawa.

Freeland: Jas. Attwood and family, of Wawanesa, arrived on Thursday last to take up residence in this district. Mr. Attwood has rented the N 1/2 24-1816 from Geo. Dinwoody, of Neepawa, for a term of years. We have been handed a specimen piece of the natural soap found in the salt mine of P. McIntyre in the Riding Mountain. The soap certainly possesses much merit and ought to be worth development.

100 years ago, Friday, February 26, 1926

Arden: Wilfred Drysdale was a passenger to Brandon on Saturday, where he is visiting friends, and incidentally will attend the bee course being held there this week.

Franklin: Wedding bells rang for one of our bachelors on Wednesday, when Mr. Gilbert Burton was quietly married to Miss Ellen Davis, daughter of J. T. Davies, of

Empire.

McCreary: Miss J. Cruikshank has given up her position in the Royal Bank of Canada here. Her departure is very much regretted as she made many friends during her stay. A dinner party was given in her honor by Mrs. Geo. Kay, and Mrs. Tedford also entertained in her honor.

Eden: Congratulations are extended to H. C. Scott, of the village, who celebrates his 75th birthday tomorrow, Feb. 27. He is the twin brother of E. Scott, of Picton, Ont., their birthplace being a log cabin, chinked with moss at Cherry Valley, Ont., where in those days the deer and cattle bruised peacefully together. These twins were regularly rocked to sleep in a sap trough– which probably accounts for a good deal in after life. Eh, Henry?

75 years ago, Thursday, March 1, 1951

Mrs. Margaret Ann Campbell, 90, widow of the late Joseph James Campbell and a pioneer resident of Manitoba since 1888, died at her home here on Thursday, Feb. 22…

Mrs. Campbell, the former Margaret Ann Robinson, was born at Orangeville, Ont., Mar. 14, 1860 and received her education there. She was married to Joseph Campbell and they came west in 1888 and settled on land in the Neepawa district. Mr. Campbell died in 1903.

Michael Mikkelsen, one

of the first pioneer farmers of the Oberon district, died in Winnipeg on Friday, Feb. 23…

Born in Denmark, Oct. 4, 1869, Mr. Mikkelsen came to Canada in 1893 to the Carberry district. He worked for John Brown and Wm. Bailey until 1896 when he moved to his farm in Oberon district…

A successful farmer, Mr. Mikkelsen was a noted exhibitor of show horses and won many medals and a cup at Neepawa and Carberry fairs.

50 years ago, Thursday, February 26, 1976

Small towns across the prairies are all pretty much the same. A grain elevator or two, a coffee row where businessmen congregate to discuss local happenings and local farmers drop in to catch up on the news. And every town has a special character everybody knows and instantly recognizes.

Neepawa too boasts such a character. Kemmy Frampton, sports reporter for the Neepawa Press, will retire Friday, February 27, after almost 28 years on the job.

Have you ever danced for 12 straight hours? Well, last Saturday 22 students attempted the feat, 10 finished. The NACI Travel Club was again raising funds for their Easter trip to Paris, France.

20 years ago, Monday, February 27, 2006

Team spirit is what it’s all about for the Neepawa and Carberry entry in the Kraft Hockeyville 2006 Contest.

The contest will pit the two towns against 49 other communities from across Canada, all vying to prove they’ve got what it takes to

Jason Denbow, of Plumas, as pictured in 1976, when he met with Premier Ed Schreyer on Feb. 20 to present him with the War Amps 1976 Manitoba No. 1 key tag. Denbow was five years old at the time. Denbow was a member of the War Amps, having lost a portion of his left leg below the knee in a threshing accident in 1974.

earn the Hockeyville title.

Ron Forsman has been named chairman of the new history book committee. The committee plans to publish an updated history book of Neepawa and area to mark the area’s 135th year in 2008.

McCreary: The Roman Catholic Church in McCreary is celebrating 100 years of faith…

The first mass was celebrated 100 years ago at midnight, December 24, 1905.

The management and staff of T.I.C. Parts & Service in Neepawa invite you to help us celebrate out 15th year in the agricultural business.

Opening as a new dealer in 1991, T.I.C. has grown regionally as a major player in farm equipment marketing

and we’re very proud of our accomplishments…

T.I.C. is locally owned and operated by Darrell and Val LeBoutillier.

The first animal to be declared dangerous under the town’s new animal animal control bylaw has been destroyed.

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.

Dear friends, since God loved us as much as that, we surely ought to love each other too. For though we have never yet seen God, when we love each other God lives in us, and his love within us grows ever stronger.

1 John 4:11-12 (The Living Bible)

Perspectives

Tundra

By Chad Carpenter

Staying positive in tough times

This week marks the first of our 10 Farmers Advocate issues this year. Our FA editions are published the last Friday of each month from February through November. It appears in all three of our papers, the Neepawa Banner & Press, the Virden Empire-Advance and the Rivers Banner. Seeing as the three papers started in 1896, 1885 and 1908 respectively, I am inclined to ponder about all the changes to farming that have taken place since 1885.

1885 is a long time ago. It’s 15 years before my long-deceased grandparents were married. 1885 is 22 years before my dad was born (1907). It’s 63 years before I was born.

My dad would have been able to relate to farming in 1885 to some extent, as he grew up on a tiny farm near Christieville, Quebec and farmed there with his father using horses and even hand scythes. When he began farming on his own near Muir, Manitoba in 1933, it was with horses. After serving in WWll, he went farming again at Holland, Manitoba. His first vehicle and machinery at Holland were horse drawn. He did switch from horses to a Case VA tractor in 1946, and had a succession of tractors through to his retirement in the mid-1980s. His first vehicle was a Model T car converted to a truck, I believe, but I have no memory of it. His next car was a 1928 Chevy four door Landau model. I remember that one. How I wish I had that car today, as it was beautiful and sits only in my memory and my family photo album. It was followed by a 1938 Plymouth, a 1951 International Harvester pick up, a 1958 IHC truck and then a variety of cars until his passing in 1987.

I guess all that is somewhat irrelevant, but the transition from horses to tractors and various trucks

Right in the Centre

Ken Waddell

and cars is illustrative of how things have changed from 1885 to1985. The transition was stark, but not as stark as the changes we have seen in the years since 1985.

In the passing 40 years, farming has changed to a point where it’s almost unrecognizable and almost out of anyone’s price range. The inflation in land prices has made millionaires of some retiring farmers and debt slaves to some of those who have come along behind.

As I write this column, the ever bombastic President Trump has flung out even more tariff threats. I can’t think of a time when we were made more aware of international trade relations than we are today. It’s interesting to note that tariffs, both inside and outside of Canada have been pushing and pulling agriculture on both the production and supply side for years. In the early years of Confederation, tariffs were widespread. If I have my history straight, it was Canada’s first prime minister, John A. Macdonald, who imposed tariffs on US made farm machinery so as to prop up the eastern Canadian manufacturers and force Canadian farmers to buy Canadian machinery rather than cheaper imported farm machinery.

I can’t predict what will happen with tariffs and trade wars but I can be assured of a few things.

I have said many times that we

need to look after Faith, Family, Friends and Finances, and in that order.

Our family has faced economic difficulties a few times in our lives. We may face them again and I know that my kids, grandkids and great grands face some struggles.

But this I know, God loves us and it’s important to follow his teachings. Love your neighbour as yourself, follow the Ten Commandments. Be aware of the pitfalls that may lie ahead.

I have also said that the sun will come up tomorrow and regardless of how tough things might seem to be unfolding, there will also be many things to be thankful for.

To put it bluntly, if you don’t think we live in a land of plenty, then you haven’t observed the 40 foot long shelves of potato chips and snack food in most stores or the pallets of pet food.

There is always lots to grumble about, but it doesn’t do much good. It’s much more productive to get off our butts and do something productive. Any able bodied person who thinks they have things tough, aren’t living with the right attitude.

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

Rita Friesen Homebodies

Here’s to friendships

We know that from our very first breath to our very last breath, we need human contact. Deeper than a want, it truly is an essential need.

We see how infants thrive with loving connections, how parents and caregivers are encouraged to have skin on skin time with the wee ones, even when there are tubes and wires in the picture. And we know too well the longing, need, that our elders and ill have for a hug and a hand to hold.

Not everyone is privileged to have a supportive family; physical distances and emotional distances prevent regular contact. Here’s the place where friendships excel. First, we do get to choose our friends, and we do get the opportunity to interact with them — either through the workplace, the gym, or the coffee shops. It is heart warming to watch a group of individuals sharing time and thoughts — connecting. I swing back to the human contact thought. Safe hugs are becoming more common. With the work I am privileged to do, I give, and receive wonderful hugs. I can feel an energy shift when I am greeted with a hug before a service; I am encouraged and strengthened. And as I gather with families the hugs are also shared energy, me offering my strength, granting them a moment to feel frail and sad, safely. And the Sunday morning hugs! We have worshipped together, prayed and praised together, and now rejoice in friendships and shared values. I am a hugger… a safe hugger.

Preschool and daycare were not a part of my childhood. Cousins were! And they became my playmates and lifelong friends. We share a history of experiences and people. Some school friendships last for a lifetime. I admire and respect that. I have relocated a number of times and have lost touch with old neighbours and classmates.Not for a moment have I forgotten them! We made a hat full of memories; curling bonspiels, track and field days, youth group gatherings and community celebrations. There were ten of us students that moved from grade two to twelve almost together, I know their names though I have not a clue where they are, what they do (I imagine retired!!) or if they are still with us.

As a parent I got to know other parents, some developed into friendships. I entered into community life, and here too, created some friendships. We all get/got so busy with life and living that maintaining a friendship sometimes became too much work.

And now I am old. Friendships are the gold in the golden years! We may not have shared other parts of our lives, but now we have time, and the need, for each other. I am so blessed with friends of many ages and stages. I miss, fiercely, the women who I considered my mentors, and, in turn, I have become a mentor to others. My young friends think young and allow me that freedom. With others we commiserate about our aches and pains, and forgetfulness! Each day I give thanks for the circle of friends that bless me with their time and energy… and their hugs!

Letters to the editor

‘Manitoba’s children deserve better’

The Manitoba NDP continues to promote headlines about increased education funding. But for many rural school divisions, the reality tells a different story.

Premier Wab Kinew and his government point to overall increases as proof they are investing in education. Yet a significant portion of those dollars is being directed toward stabilizing large urban divisions, particularly within the Winnipeg School Division, which failed to plan for known cost pressures adequately. Winnipeg divisions were well aware that wage harmonization was on the way. Those costs were foreseeable. Yet some divisions did not properly account for them in their budgeting process. Now, instead of being held accountable for those deci-

sions, they are effectively being bailed out with additional provincial support.

Meanwhile, rural divisions like Park West, Mountain View, or Rolling River did the responsible thing. They balanced their budgets. They planned carefully. And they absorbed rising costs without running deficits. What did that responsibility earn them?

Park West received just a 0.7 per cent increase for the 2026–2027 school year. That’s less than the one per cent publicly reported and the second-lowest increase in Manitoba. Last year, its increase was also under one per cent and was the lowest in the province. This reflects a clear pattern of comparatively low provincial funding growth for rural divisions that have managed their

finances prudently.

Rural divisions face unique challenges: higher transportation costs, shrinking enrolment in some areas, aging infrastructure, and difficulty recruiting staff across our widespread communities. They do not have the economies of scale available in Winnipeg. Yet they are seeing smaller increases while urban deficits are covered.

Responsible financial management should be rewarded - not penalized. If the government is serious about fairness and transparency, it must ensure rural students are not disadvantaged simply because their school boards managed their budgets responsibly.

Manitoba’s children deserve better.

Levi Cottingham Birtle, MB

Info for clarification:

This insert is to provide additional details and clarification regarding the Feb. 20, 2026 article “New immigration initiative coming to Neepawa’. The article outlines Neepawa’s agreement with Economic Development Brandon, making it an official partner of the Southwestern Manitoba Immigration Initiative (SWMII); and how the SWMII works.

Please note that all levels of government are involved in the process. The

SWMII is an initiative of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), and that participating communities such as Brandon and Neepawa can issue community endorsements to candidates. Following an endorsement, the MPNP assess them for provincial nomination. Candidates who receive a provincial nomination are then assessed by the federal government, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residency.

Correction:

In a thumbs up / thumbs down submission from the Feb. 20 edition of the Banner & Press. Kinsmen Kourts II was improperly identified as the location, when the correct indentification should have been Kinsmen Kourts I. The Banner & Press apologize for the error.

out of helen’s kitchen Helen Drysdale

ArtsForward

Today’s recipes come from the 1998 “The Art of Cooking,” published by the Viscount Cultural Council. The VCC as it was known as was incorporated in 1976. Its gallery show cased art work from local, regional and national artists as well as hosting touring exhibitions. It also organized classes in visual, dance, music, literary and crafts for people of all ages. When the VCC purchased a permanent location the name changed to Arts Forward. This new and larger space allowed for many more events and classes to take place. All year round it is a hub of activity providing classes from toddlers to seniors. Performances and events organized include, events for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, concerts, recitals, author readings, Trivia Nights, beer and wine tastings, and our annual Christmas Craft Sale. We are truly fortunate to have such an organization in our community.

Magically moist chicken –Don Kryschuk

2 1/2 -3 1/2 lb. chicken cut up 1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 1/4 cup bread crumbs

Brush chicken on all sides with mayonnaise. Add Italian seasoning to bread crumbs. Place bread crumbs in a large plastic food bag. Add chicken one piece at a time; shake to coat well. Arrange on rack in broiler pan. Bake at 425°F for about 40 minutes or until golden brown and tender.

Sweet potato and carrot crisp –Jane McLaren

5 large sweet potatoes

2 lbs. carrots

3/4 cup orange juice

2 Tbsp. liquid honey

2 Tbsp. butter

2 tsp. cinnamon

2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp. salt

Topping:

1 1/2 cups fresh bread crumbs

1/2 cup chopped onions

1/3 cup melted butter

1 Tbsp. chopped parsley

Cook and mash sweet potatoes and carrots. Add the other six ingredients; put into a greased 9X13 inch pan. Combine topping ingredients; sprinkle over potato mixture. Cover with tin foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

Orange chocolate chip cookies –Don Clark

1 cup margarine

1 cup brown sugar

1 cup white sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp. vanilla grated rind of 1 orange

1 orange, peeled and finely chopped

2 cups flour

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. baking soda

3 cups oatmeal

2 cups chocolate chips or smarties

Preheat oven to 350°F. Cream margarine and sugars together in a large mixing bowl. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Add grated orange rind and finely chopped orange to creamed mixture; mix well. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in the chocolate chips. Drop by spoonfuls onto greased cookie sheets; press down with fork. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Makes about 4 dozen cookies.

Thumbs up, thumbs down

To the mentors and teachers who have made our town richer: plumbers, electricians, dentists, chiropractors, optometrists, pharmacists, doctors and more teachers. And the list goes on.

Christine Waddell Neepawa, MB

History lessons with Helen: Olympic hockey

By Helen Drysdale Neepawa Banner & Press

Watching the Olympic hockey this week, I think there were 40 million Canadians at home on the edge of their seat waiting to see gold for their teams. While the result wasn’t what we hoped for, I am proud of their silver medal performance. This week’s story is about Canada’s first hockey team to achieve gold in the Olympics and to inspire generations of young hockey players.

Early in our country’s history, hockey had become the national game. Canada’s long winters made ice a natural playing surface so hockey was often played on the nearest frozen lake, river or prairie slough, sometimes with a puck from a frozen horse turd. On March 3, 1875, the first recorded indoor hockey game was played at Victoria Skating Rink in Montreal. Soon in the cities, outdoor and indoor rinks were quickly built to accommodate the growing number of hockey players. The game of hockey came to Manitoba by the 1880s; we know that 1890-91 in Winnipeg the Victoria and Winnipeg Hockey Clubs were formed. The spectators relished the fast moving pace of the game and by 1898-99 there were over a hundred teams in Winnipeg. From Winnipeg’s west end came a group of young men, made up from Icelandic descent whose team members had been barred from playing on other senior teams because of their ethnicity. Undeterred, this led to the creation of the Winnipeg Falcons, a combination of two rival Manitoba hockey teams so named after

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Falcons of Winnipeg, Amateur Champions of Canada. They were the winners of the World’s Hockey Championship, VIII Olympiade, Antwerp, Apr. 26, 1920. The names listed with the photo were: Gordon Sigurjonsson (trainer), Hebbie Axford D.F.C. (club president), Wally Byrdon (goal), Slim Halderson (right wing), Frank Fredrickson (captain, center), Billy Hewitt (Canadian Olympic representative), Konnie Johannesson (right defence), Mike Goodman (left wing), Huck Woodman (substitute), Bobby Benson (left defence), Chris Fridfinnson (rover) and Bill Fridfinnson (secretery).

Iceland’s national bird. In 1916, almost every Falcons player enlisted to join The Great War. Two of the men lost their lives and were laid to rest in France. After returning from the war in late 1919 the Falcons reformed. They were again denied entry to Winnipeg’s senior league which only strengthened their bond as a team. They ended up forming a new league with Selkirk and Brandon where they won that division. In Winnipeg, February 6, 1920, 5,000 hockey fans came to see the “Winnipeg Falcons” meet the Winnipeg Hockey League champions. It was simply no contest as the speedier Falcons trounced both the teams they played against. As Manitoba’s best

team they would go on to Toronto representing the province. Two weeks later, the Falcons thoroughly impressed Toronto hockey fans by winning the prestigious Allan Cup easily beating Toronto Varsity 8-3 and 3-2 and becoming the national amateur hockey champs. This win lead to the honor of representing Canada in the first Olympic hockey competition. It may sound strange, but the very first Olympic ice hockey tournament did not take place in winter.

The 1920 summer Olympics ran during the summer months but an Olympic hockey competition was held in April at Antwerp’s Palais de Glace, an indoor “ice palace.” Until then, the International Olympic

Committee had hesitated at even considering ice hockey for its program, naming insufficient European participation as their reason.

The invitation to the Olympics came at such short notice that the Falcons didn’t have time to return home to Winnipeg. They had packed only enough clothes for a few days. The city of Winnipeg and province of Manitoba each gave funds to get the team some clothes before they boarded the ship for Antwerp. During the crossing of the Atlantic

aboard the S.S. Melita, the team took to training on the deck doing jogging and calisthenics. The ship’s carpenter, carved two dozen sticks from rough wood the team had obtained in Montreal; these were the only sticks the Falcons would be using in the Olympics.

With the Americans delayed by bad weather, Canada and the other invited teams of Belgium, France, Czechoslovakia, Switzerland and Sweden held practices. The Europeans had only a crude understanding of hockey

as they were trained in bandy which was played outdoors on a frozen soccer field with field hockey sticks and a ball. The flat hockey puck was new to them. They were not used to stick-handling for the game and had no idea of defensive playing. After watching their competition practice, the Falcons did the most questionable thing: they started coaching the other teams. They helped train the teams for their games against themselves. They left an impression of upstanding qualities of Canadian sportsmanship.

Each game consisted of two 20-minute periods and there were no substitutions. If a player was injured, the opposing team was required to pull one of its players. Under the tournament’s knock-out format, Canada’s road to gold lasted just three games. The Falcons proved vastly superior to all opponents. They won Czechoslovakia 15-0, the Americans 2-0, and the Swedes, 12-1. The U.S. team, for its part, included four Canadian citizens who played for U.S. clubs and one player who had played in the NHL.

Upon their return to Winnipeg, the city proclaimed a half-day holiday to celebrate the return of the champions. There was a parade of 200 cars, trucks and horse-drawn vehicles, a civic banquet at Fort Garry Hotel and gifts of gold watches. They were and forever will be, the world’s first Olympic Hockey Champions.

PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR HOUSE IS

Keep your dollars in Canada to strengthen communities and support local businesses, including your local newspaper.

‘One coat; one warm welcome at a time’

Neepawa Newcomers Coat Room aided 205 people during 2025 season

By Casper Wehrhahn

Neepawa Banner & Press

The Neepawa Newcomers Coat Room (NNCR) reports yet another charitable give-away season. The charitable initiative’s 2025 year-end report, provided by NNCR president Leisel Milligan, shared that 205 winter coats were matched with newcomers experiencing their first winter in Canada.

The precise breakdown of individuals aided is 130 men, 46 women, and 29 children under the age of 12.

“We were thrilled to have an abundance of community volunteers to ensure that the Coat Room was more than just a place to get a coat, but also a springboard for relationship and community welcome,” Milligan enthused. “The dedicated volunteers represent the spirit of the community we live in!”

Milligan added, “The NNCR ran two successful coat drives. A special thank you to the community for their generosity in donating winter coats.”

The NNCR is continuing to operate at 60 per cent

donated coats, and 40 per cent purchased coats. Milligan noted that this model works well for the NNCR, as there is a consistently high number of newcomer men, and a low number of men’s coats being donated.

“We offset this by purchasing winter coats during the clearance seasons in preparation for the next

coat season,” Milligan explained. “The funds for purchasing coats comes from the generosity of many! This year, 65 coats were sponsored directly through individuals, community groups, and businesses. We are so thankful for your support!”

The NNCR also reported an increase in

Special tags which read “I am a sponsored coat” hung from a number of the NNCR’s available coats– signifying that community partners (individuals, businesses, etc) provided monetary support to purchase them. These sponsorships were a valuable boost to the NNCR’s coat stock.

business support through donations to its Winter Welcome Packages, Coat Sponsorship program, and

door prizes.

“The Winter Welcome Package contains information on dressing for winter,

winter recreation in our community, additional community resource information, and freebies donated by local businesses,” said Milligan.

Additionally, a grant from the Beautiful Plains Community Foundation supported the purchase of a storage SeaCan. This addition provided a much welcome boost to their efforts.

“This storage unit is essential for us since we operate solely out of donated space with no storage,” said Milligan.

Providing a final comment, Milligan emphasized the NNCR’s gratitude for the support the initiative continues to receive, stating, “With the support of the community behind us, we continue to welcome newcomers as they arrive; one coat, one warm welcome at a time. Thank you for being a part of the Coat Room in the 2025 season!”

A good partner here in Neepawa

Removing the trees to save the trees

Neepawa Town Council - Feb. 17, 2026

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

A surge of invasive insects and pests in some trees at the Riverside Cemetery is forcing significant action from the Neepawa Town Council. At their most recent meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 17, councillors and administration discussed the current state of the spruce trees within the burial ground.

Chief Administrative Officer Colleen Synchyshyn explained that many of those older trees are heavily infested and nearing the end of their lifespan. She added that they could pose safety risks to some of the newly planted and developing trees.

“The [older] trees are heavily infested with white pine needle scale insects and spider mites with some trees being too far gone to save,” said Synchyshyn. “So we would like to put in a five year plan to remove the older trees, because if we don’t do it, the small [trees] are just going to die, as the bugs move over.”

• Councillor Marijka Kostenchuk reported on the latest related to the ‘Lifeline’ program. She noted issues with GPSequipped units, due to poor cell signals in Neepawa and Kelwood. They are looking into hardwired units as a safer option.

• Councillor Dave Clark participated in a meeting of the Yellowhead Centre committee. They discussed struggles with some of their infrastructure at the facility. They are looking at seeking out potential grant funding, and maintaining the existing infrastructure. Clark also was involved with the Recreation Economic Development meeting, with covered some upcoming programs. Finally, the Firefighters Executive meeting took place, and involved a meeting with the Chief and his captains. The discussions revolved around budget needs for the fire department.

Correspondence and other business

Continued from Page 1

The award was accepted by the Chief Operating Officer for HyLife Lyle Loewen and Darian Major, the Vice President of Finance.

In his remarks, Loewen acknowledged the company’s employees and the broader community, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind HyLife’s success.

Thank you on behalf of HyLife,” said Loewen. “In receiving this award, I want to focus on our employees, because it’s our 1,600 and so employees here [in Neepawa] who make this their

home, who show up every day to make the best premium pork in the world.”

Loewen also thanked the Chamber and the local business sector for the recognition, and committed that HyLife would continue to do everything it can to be a good partner here in Neepawa.

Darian Major also spoke on behalf of HyLife. Darian and his family have close ties to Neepawa, having lived here for 16 years. He expressed that while they have had to move a little closer to the main offices in the La Broquerie/ Steinbach region, this community has made such a

big impact on him. He said there is something special out here that we should not take for granted.

“So, to the Chamber and its members here tonight, please keep doing what you’re doing. Keep making this a vibrant community,” expressed Major. “I just wanted to share that. So, thank you.”

Since 2008, HyLife’s Neepawa pork plant has grown with the community. Investment in major infrastructure upgrades has enabled the facility’s labour force to increase from 350 to just over 1,600 employees.

Gladstone cattle market report

By Blaine Huston Neepawa Banner & Press

We sold 1,189 head in the ring and 149 video sale cattle 1(,338 head total) on Tuesday, Feb. 24 on a powerful market in Happy Rock. We had 250 butcher cattle to start the day, and here’s how they sold:

•D1-D2 cows $2.20-2.48.

•D3 older cows $1.70-2.00.

•Young feeding type cows $2.25-2.60.

•Bulls $2.30-2.6825.

Here are some market highlights from Tuesday’s sale:

•We had a package of four Charolais steers weighing 983 pounds bring $4.60 a pound ($4,523 a head).

•Five Black steers come in the ring weighing 771 pounds and cash in at $5.46 a pound ($4210 per head).

•Eleven Black steers weighing 573 pounds stamp there ticket at $7.12 a pound ($4,080 a head).

•Ten red and black exotic heifers weighing 937 pounds bring $4.53 per pound ($4242 per head)

•Ten black heifers weigh 748 pounds and fetch $5.14 per pound ($3844 per head)

•Four red and black exotic

heifers come in the ring weighing 565 pounds and bring $6.40 a pound ($3,616 per head).

Protection of some headstones was also cited as a concern, as a few of the old trees do pose a risk to the century-old memorials within the cemetery. These irreplaceable headstones could be damaged by the weakened trees, should a massive wind storm pass through.

A five-year plan has been proposed to remove 40 older, infected trees on an annual basis and to replace them with new ones, while continuing to treat younger trees. This plan aims to protect headstones and maintain the cemetery’s beauty. Councillors reviewed the options and have voted to proceed. The exact details on the schedule for removal and replacement will be discussed in a future meeting.

Councillor reports

• Councillor Jason Nadeau recently attended a Spruce Plains Justice Committee. He shared that plans are being organized to increase visibility and community awareness of the Committee and their supportive work.

• Councillor Darryl Gerrard provided an update on the second stage of the town’s budget process, focusing on managing project costs and addressing the community’s expectations for paving and sidewalk projects. “We’ve heard loud and clear as to the expectations of the community for paving project, sidewalk projects. We’re trying to manage that with some new large developments without increasing property taxes.” Said Gerrard. “There’s going to be some tough choices ahead.” Gerrard also added they are considering how to deal with rising costs of municipal operations beyond typical inflation.

Manitoba Public Insurance rates for basic calls, complex calls, and securing the scene for municipalities will increase by 3.7 per cent effective Mar. 1.

A request for a speed bump on Hamilton Street was discussed due to speeding vehicles and pedestrian safety concerns. The council acknowledged the success of a similar bump on Davidson Street, and are taking the request under consideration.

The Trans-Canada Trail has received the Trail Care Grant of $2,000 to help with trail clean-up efforts. That amount is double what Neepawa received last year.

An application for the Storefront Improvement Incentive Program from Orvs’ Appliance has been approved for $4,356 to renovate their storefront.

Tipping fees at Evergreen have been updated, increasing costs for construction, demolition, hog care and contaminated recycling materials.

Infrastructure development has begun west of the town shop and water tower, and features the construction roads and installation of infrastructure in the 58-acre area.

The council praised the Recreation Department for its successful Family Day and Louis Riel Day events, including the daytime fireworks.

Optometrists

Dr. Kara Vanderheyden

Dr. Megan Brunen

Clinic Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 9am - 5pm Friday 9am - 4pm

Farmers’ Advocate

What is traceability and why is it important to the beef industry?

By Matthew Atkinson

Past President, and District 8 Director

Manitoba Beef Producers

Editor’s Note: This column was originally published in the February 2026 edition of the Manitoba Beef Producers newspaper Cattle Country, and has been reprinted with permission.

In recent weeks, there has been lots of discussion, especially on social media about potential Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) changes to Canada’s livestock traceability system. Unfortunately, some incorrect information is circulating that said these changes took effect January 1, which is not the case. And there is some misinformation about what the proposed changes could mean for beef producers in their day-to-day operations. I am focusing this month’s column on why traceability is important to our sector, what is being proposed – but not yet enacted or being enforced, and where the matter stands today.

It is also important to note that Manitoba Beef Producers, along with other industry stakeholders such as the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) had called for a pause on the implementation of proposed changes until such time as beef industry questions and concerns are addressed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

The CFIA issued a statement on Jan. 10 where it

said that it “will pause any publication of the regulations until the proposed changes are more widely understood and concerns are heard and taken into consideration.”

Livestock traceability systems have three main objectives: to reduce the impacts of animal diseases by assisting with disease investigations, to provide accurate and upto-date livestock identity and movement information, and, to better protect public health and animal health.

The three pillars of traceability are premises identification (PIDs), animal identification (CCIA tags), and animal movement through the recording of move-in data on cattle. An example of how traceability is being used is in the investigations into bovine tuberculosis cases in beef cattle in Saskatchewan and a dairy herd in Manitoba.

Effective traceability is important for enhancing disease preparedness efforts and helping to minimize the number of affected producers if a disease arises. Traceability systems have also been used to share information about floods and fires in provinces where livestock may have been at risk due to these types of disasters.

Continued on Page 11

Letter: Closing Ag research stations may hamper Ag industry

Editor’s note: This letter is directed for Heath MacDonald, theMinister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. This letter was also shared with the Farmers’ Advocate to be shared with the readership:

Dear Minister MacDonald, I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the government’s unilateral decision to close three Agricultural Research Facilities and four Research Farms across Canada.

Agriculture and food production play a foundational role in Canada’s economy and, more importantly, in the health and well-being of Canadians. Citizens who pay taxes rightly expect access to safe, wholesome, high-quality food. As the founder and editor of a farm magazine, Charles Walters, once said: “The function of a producer is not just to grow bins and bushels; it is to grow quality food that produces minds capable of thought and reason.” When one considers the current physical and mental health challenges facing our society, it is evident that significantly more—not less—research is required. Research and industry together play a critical role in meeting that objective.

Equally important is the human element. A substantial amount of specialized human capital is at stake. The scientists, technicians, and support staff working at these facilities represent decades of accumulated expertise.

Decisions of this magnitude demand careful evaluation of both the people and the long-term consequences of eliminating this capacity.

Innovation is not merely important—it is the lifeline of any industry and country. Research should be viewed much like the purchase of capital equipment: through the lens of return on investment.

individual merits, based on the projects underway, by a qualified committee of “big-picture” thinkers with a long-term mandate. It is difficult to believe that such an evaluation was completed prior to the closure decision. However, it is not too late. I strongly encourage your department to involve industry and citizens over the next year in a transparent evaluation process, culminating in a public report that clearly identifies:

The value of current research programs Projects that could be paused Work that may be outdated and suitable for termination

Our soils, water, livestock, and food safety systems are Canada’s most basic and irreplaceable resources. These must be preserved at all costs— for future generations and for the international customers who rely on Canadian exports. Everything begins with the soil, supported by responsible water and livestock management.

I am also concerned about the fate of long-term joint ventures currently underway between government, industry, and individuals. If projects are terminated mid-stream, any resources contributed by third parties must be repaid. Moreover, independent, third-party research is essential in agriculture—as in any industry—to verify results and maintain public trust. Without it, Canadians are shortchanged, innovation is stifled, and research risks becoming dominated solely by large corporations whose first responsibility is to shareholders.

consider the following:

In 2024, Agriculture and the agri-food system generated $149.2 billion in economic activity— seven per cent of Canada’s GDP—with primary agriculture contributing $31.7 billion.Every dollar of sales at the primary end creates 4.70 dollars of economic activity in the agri-food system.

Agriculture and Food Processing represent Canada’s largest manufacturing employer, supporting 2.3 million jobs (1 in nine Canadian jobs).

Agriculture and Seafood exports exceed $100 billion annually.

Future : With the right investment, industry reports suggest agriculture has the potential to outperform the auto and aerospace sectors combined.

These facts clearly demonstrate that primarylevel research in soil, water, and livestock is essential to producing competitively priced, high-quality raw products—allowing the entire food system to thrive for Canadians and export markets alike.

have weathered difficult periods before, and we will again. That is precisely why I am urging you to pause, listen, and

examine all options before permanently dismantling research facilities that safeguard Canada’s soils, water, livestock, food

safety, and long-term economic resilience. Harvey Dann West St. Paul, MB

All Canadians are facing uncertain and challenging times, particularly given global instability and our unpredictable relationship with our southern neighbour. We

A trusted expert in this field has advised me that investments in agricultural research historically generate returns of 20–30 to 1, even after accounting for the time value of money.

Each research facility should be evaluated on its

I recognize the difficult balance required in public decision-making between ideology, necessity, acceptability, and affordability. However, the first step must be the creation of a qualified, independent committee to examine each facility—its projects, people, infrastructure, and future potential—and report back with findings, potential savings, and recommendations for modernization where appropriate and available to all segments of society.

To underscore the importance of this issue,

Beef industry traceability rules need more study

Continued from Farmers’ Advocate front page

More than 40 per cent of Canada’s beef cattle production is exported annually, so maintaining market access is key. Livestock traceability systems support Canada’s disease status reporting to international bodies and export markets, which is important for maintaining trading opportunities and supporting economic sustainability in our industry. The faster a disease investigation can be done and information shared with trade partners, the better.

The federal traceability requirements currently in effect for cattle were introduced in 2000. The proposed amendments to Part XV of the Health of Animals Act — Traceability Regulations have been under discussion between the CFIA and members of the beef value chain for several years. This has included ongoing input from provincial cattle associations like MBP and various national associations. In 2016, nineteen industry organizations endorsed the Cattle Implementation Plan, the sector’s preferred approach to traceability system adjustments. The beef industry has continually provided feedback as the proposed changes have been moving through the government’s regulatory change

process, such as the gazetting process. This will continue.

So what types of changes have been proposed, but not taken effect?

Key changes for producers include:

• A requirement to get or keep current a premises identification (PID) number from the provincial government.

• A requirement to include your PID number when you are purchasing approved indicators (tags) and when you are reporting information related to identification of cattle and their movement, and

• Reporting the arrival of cattle (i.e. move-in reporting) within seven days.

It is important to note that under the proposed traceability system updates that movement reporting into the Canadian Livestock Tracking System (CLTS) is not required for animal movements within the same farm. As proposed, you won’t be expected to report calves within hours of birth. Calves may be tagged and recorded before leaving the farm, just like now. You will only have to report new animals coming onto your operation (move-in).

There is a proposed exception though for cattle going to/from rodeos/fairs/exhibitions, to community pastures (which is done as a group, not individual tag numbers), and to veterinary clinics, where both their

departure from your operation and their return will need to be reported into the CLTS. We recognize there are some questions about these requirements and it is important there is industry alignment on these types of concerns.

As proposed under new regulations, if you sell your calves through an auction market, the auction will report those calves moving in as a group. The purchaser of those calves will then report individual tag numbers when they move onto that operation.

As for the existing regulations and for which no changes are being proposed, cattle must still be tagged before leaving the site of origin. You also need to report tag retirement when animals are slaughtered, exported or die.

The CFIA has a webinar that gives a good overview of what the proposed changes mean. I strongly encourage you to check it out. See: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=5w3ALso7lg0&t=6s MBP’s website also has more information about what’s being proposed. Go to: https://mbbeef. ca/our-news/ understandingproposed-updates-to-livestock-traceabil-

ity-regulations

Follow along on MBP’s social media for updates as well. Get a premises identification via Manitoba Agriculture at https://www. gov.mb.ca/agriculture/food-safety/ traceability/premises-identification.html

Begin reporting move-in events to the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA). See https://www. canadaid.ca/ . Get familiar with the Canadian Livestock Tracking System (CLTS) or the CLTS MOBO app which allows for online reporting. The CLTS is managed by the CCIA and it is not a government database. Some of you may opt to use apps and programs which can integrate reporting with the CLTS. The information you report is confidential, protected and only accessed if a disease traceback is needed.

As of now, publication of the final traceability amendments in Canada Gazette II is not expected any earlier than this spring. As noted, the CFIA has paused this process for an undetermined length of time to get more input. MBP and other industry stakeholders will continue to provide that to them based on

feedback from our members. If there is another public comment period, I also strongly urge you to make your questions and concerns known to the CFIA. There is supposed to be a one-year window between publication of regulatory changes and when they would come into effect. The beef industry has requested a robust education and awareness process to give all time to prepare. As well, MBP has also advocated with the CFIA for a period of soft enforcement while producers get familiarized with any changes made.

Whatever traceability system changes are enacted must be practical for producers, not add more regulatory burden and should provide clear value for the sector, such as assisting with timely disease investigations and ensuring confidence among our trading partners. Having a well functioning traceability system is very important for the Canadian beef industry for the reasons I’ve explained in this column. If you have questions or concerns, please continue to reach out to us, and explore the resources I’ve identified here to learn more.

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MJHL Standings

NACI Tigers just keep on winning

Eight straight victories to close out WHSHL regular season

By Eoin Devereux

The Neepawa Area Collegiate Institute (NACI) Tigers are riding a wave of momentum into the post-season, having won eight straight games in the Westman High School Hockey League (WHSHL).

Neepawa has not seen defeat since Wednesday, Feb. 4, and their latest performances over the weekend showcased exactly why that’s the case. The Tigers earned three victories on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, further solidifying their position among the league’s top contenders.

Game results

Game results

Sunday, Feb. 22

Virden 4-2 Neepawa

First Period No scoring Second Period

08:36 VDN O. Schroeder (2)

WAY B. Farthing (7)

ASST: D. Duzan (12), R. Perrin (8)

15:29 WAY S. Hicks (25)

ASST:M. Collyer (7), B. Roulette (34)

04:27 NPA T. Wamboldt (6)

ASST: A. McIntosh (8), G. Slaney (5)

08:57 WAY A. Herring (20) PP

ASST: B. Roulette (35), S. Hicks (30) Scoring 1 2 3 Total PP

NPA 1 0 1 2 0/5

WAY 2 1 1 4 1/4

NPA - Z. Burleigh - (L) 22/26 saves WAY - M. Bercier - (W) 32/34 saves Attendance: 285 Wayway Arena Complex

Saturday, Feb. 21

Neepawa 8-5 Selkirk

03:55 NPA T. Lewis (12)

ASST: J. Clark (22), DJ Meloney (18)

11:46 NPA D. Andries (5)

ASST: J. Clark (23), T. Lewis (14)

17:50 NPA L. Paquette (18) PP

ASST: T. Wallis (19), J. Kohut (10)

18:30 SEL J. Frederick (6)

ASST: O. Branson (24), W. Witham (30)

Second Period

06:54 NPA K. Weisgarber (13) SH

ASST: K. Skrupa (19), D. MCCAnn (5)

08:21 SEL P. Legg-Cote (2)

ASST: O. Branson (25), N. Wytrykusz (9)

17:02 SEL C. Haney (7)

ASST: D. Line (5), K. Turner (18)

17:22 NPA J. Clark (27)

ASST: T. Lewis (15), J. Kohut (11)

19:08 SEL E. Mayer (9)

ASST: C. Zalischuk (7), A. Collins (13) Third Period

00:09 NPA J. Clark (28)

ASST: Unassisted

09:37 SEL W. Witham (17)

ASST: O. Branson (26)

16:43 NPA D. Andries (6)

ASST: J. Clark (24)

17:37 NPA T. Wallis (18) EN

ASST: A. McIntosh (11) Scoring 1 2 3 Total PP

3 2 3 8

ASST: C. Lewko (17) 09:07 VDN D. Drake (13)

ASST: A. Osiowy (7), B. Siemens (16) 11:39 VDN T. Plaisier (4)

ASST: C. Worthington (34) Third Period

01:47 NPA T. Lewis (13) PP

ASST: J. Clark (25), D. Andries (5) 11:12 VDN L. Laramee (5)

ASST: T. Draper (10), B. Laing (7) 13:55 NPA L. Paquette (19) SH

ASST: Unassisted

Scoring 1 2 3 Total PP VDN 0 3 1 4 0/4 NPA

VDN - M. Gross - (W) 26/28 saves NPA - Z. Burleigh (L) 31/35 saves Attendance: 303 Yellowhead Centre

Tuesday, Feb. 22

Winkler 5-0 Neepawa

02:53 WKR T. George (25)

ASST: C. Hiebert (1), J. Swaenpoel (5) 13:48 WKR C. Bernier (7) ASST: J. Swaenpoel (6), C. Weaver (14) Second Period

08:38 WKR R. Baxter (14)

ASST: W. Lyons (25), C. Weaver (15) Third Period

09:54 WKR R. Winklebleck (1)

ASST: C. Hiebert (2), C. Bernier (18)

15:58 WKR R. Winklebleck (2) PP

ASST: W. Lyon (26), E. MacTavish (18)

Friday night’s action saw Neepawa deliver a statement performance with a commanding 9–1 win over the Crocus Plains Plainsmen. After a scoreless opening period, Crocus Plains struck first in the second frame. That goal, however, seemed to ignite the Tigers’

offence. Neepawa responded, rattling off nine unanswered goals, including six in the third period.

Ian Foster and Kellen Hockin led the charge with Foster recording three goals and two assists. Hockin, meanwhile, added three goals and an assist. Ethan Bray, Kyson Lapointe and Luke Nicholson also found the back of the net as the Tigers overwhelmed the Plainsmen.

Back on home ice at the Yellowhead Centre on Saturday, Feb. 21, Neepawa showed its ability to battle through adversity on the way to a 6–4 victory over the Boissevain Broncos. The Tigers were once again a little slow out of the gate, surrendering two first-period goals. But NACI regrouped and mounted an impressive comeback over the final two periods.

It was Foster once again playing a pivotal role, netting four goals to fuel the rally. Lapointe and Nicholson

also chipped in with the remaining markers, as the Tigers completed the turnaround to the delight of the home crowd.

Neepawa closed out the weekend on Sunday, Feb. 22, besting the Major Pratt Trojans 4–3 in a tightly contested matchup. Lapointe paced the offence with a pair of goals, while Zach Plett and Brooklyn Boersma added singles to secure the win.

This trio of victories pushed Neepawa’s regular-season record to an impressive 22–6–0. The Tigers are third in the overall WHSHL standings, and are firmly entrenched among the league’s elite as the postseason approaches.

Neepawa will face the sixth seededMajor Pratt Trojans (16-10-2) in the first round. Game one will be played in Neepawa on Tuesday, Mar. 3, at 7:30 p.m.

Jack Clark named an MJHL Star of the Week

Jack Clark of the Neepawa Titans has been selected as one of the three MJHL Stars of the Week. Clark (3 games played - 2 goals - 4 assists) helped the Titans to a key win over the Selkirk Steelers on the weekend, where he scored a pair of goals and added three assists. He also scored the game winning goal just nine seconds into the third period. Clark currently leads the Titans in scoring and sits sixth overall in goals in the MJHL with 28.

The other stars of the week were forward Evan Panzer of the Niverville Nighthawks (3 game played, 4-goals3 assists) and Nighthawks goaltender Austin Dubinsky, who won a pair of games, with a 0.969 save percentage and one shutout.

Club 55 Bowling Minnedosa

Feb . 19, 2026: Ladies’ High Single: Muriel Porada 211. Ladies’ High Triple: Laurie Kohinski 517. Men’s High Single & Triple: Russ Taylor 257 & 578. Other Good Scores: Laurie Kohinski 161, 163, 193; Darrell Gabler 246; Caroline Harding 180; Vivian Oswald 163, 158; Chuck Morden 175, 244; Carmen Barten 153, 151; Frank Porada 155, 159; Russ Taylor 203.

Garett Rempel’s community impact recognized with Sportsperson of the Year honour

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

Years of dedication both at the diamond and on the ice has earned Garett Rempel Neepawa’s highest sporting honour.

On Friday, Feb. 20, Rempel was named the recipient of the 2025 Anne Kuharski Memorial Sportsperson of the Year award. This prize recognizes individuals whose efforts have strengthened Neepawa’s sports and recreational community through leadership, service and volunteerism. Named in memory of Anne Kuharski, a well respected community member and former director of operations for the Yellowhead Centre, this honour is given to a person who has made a meaningful difference through sport.

Dedicated to giving back

For Rempel, his volunteer journey began at a young age. Early on, he dedicated his time to coaching youth sports, while also supporting initiatives such as the Neepawa Breakfast Club. Over time, his contributions grew to include skill development and program leadership. For several years, Rempel has organized pitching clinics for Neepawa’s young baseball players.

Hockey has also been a major focus of Garett’s volunteer efforts, as he has played a key role in the First Shift Program, which supports first-time players by reducing financial and equipment barriers.

In addition to his work with youth sports, Rempel is deeply involved in Neepawa’s senior athletics landscape. He was a significant part of the Neepawa Cubs efforts to

host the Baseball Manitoba Senior Double ‘A’ Provincials in 2017 and 2018. As well, he was involved in helping to organize the 2023 Viterra Curling Provincials at the Yellowhead Centre and has served on the boards of the Yellowhead and the Neepawa Golf & Country Club.

As if all that wasn’t enough, he still plays baseball and hockey at a high level, being an important part of the roster for the Neepawa Cubs in the summer and the Neepawa Farmers come the winter.

Rodney White, who nominated Garett for the honour, said his commitment to the community is unparalleled.

“Garett has been excelling in sports in Neepawa , but his involvement off the ice and fields has been even greater,” stated White. “I know first hand that if ever asked to help with anything, be it the rink, the curling rink, golf course, baseball diamonds, or anything to do with the teams or youth sports, Garett is always willing to help where he could. Without people like Garett Rempel, our community would not have the successful programs that we have. So for myself and our community as a whole, I would just like to say congratulations to Garett.”

An honour to be recognized

Rempel, who was not expecting the award, told the Banner & Press it was an honour to be recognized by his peers.

“It was a nice surprise, and I feel privileged to get to have my name on the Ann Kuharski Memorial. Giving my time back to the sporting community that raised me is something I really enjoy. I have lived in Neepawa my whole life and want to see the sporting community continue to thrive whether it be youth sports, high school sports, junior hockey, or even senior leagues. Getting to be apart of that in whatever capacity I can is important to me.”

Rempel concluded by noting that as his wife Shayna hope to pass on these types of lessons of giving back to their own children (A 2-year-old and another on the way in April), “I hope to see them get the same, if not more opportunities than I did while growing up here!”

Kasprick supports Breakfast Club in more ways than one

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

For Cooper Kasprick, generosity is a lesson he learned early on in life through the examples set for him every Wednesday morning at the Neepawa Breakfast Club program. And now today, he’s able to take those lessons and give back to the program in a big way.

Earlier this year, the 20-year-old was recognized as the Neepawa Titans RBC Community Ambassador. The prize is given to one player on every MJHL club that displays outstanding citizenship and sportsmanship both on and off the ice and a commitment to volunteerism.

As part of that honour, Kasprick has also received a donation in his name from RBC, which he can donate to any local community

cause. He has chosen to give that money to a project close to his heart, the Neepawa Breakfast Club program.

The Breakfast Club is a nonprofit group that focuses on hockey skill development, which runs every Wednesday morning from November to February at the Yellowhead Centre. The sessions focus on improving stick handling and puck movement drills. After the on-ice session is done, the players are fed a hearty breakfast prepared by parent volunteers.

PHOTO BY EOIN DEVEREUX

Members of the Neepawa Titans, including Cooper Kasprick, pose with the participants for the Neepawa Breakfast Club program, just after the final session of the season, on Wednesday, Feb. 25.

The program has been operating for over 15 years, through the efforts Landon Cameron and a cavalcade

of Titans/Natives players through the years, as well as parents and volunteers. It can, however, be an expensive endeavour, as it usually costs around $5,000 over the course of the winter, to keep it going. Now, with Cooper’s donation, ensuring the Breakfast Club remains an early morning tradition in Neepawa for another year became just

that little bit easier.

A good example and role model

Lead organizer Landon Cameron acknowledged Cooper’s support for the Club, during the last gathering of the season on Wednesday, Feb 25. He said Kasprick is a great example of giving back, and not just because of the donation.

“Yeah, it’s super cool to see Cooper giving back. I remember this program 15 years ago, and Cooper was a five year old coming out and helping out. And now, he’s out here on the ice, being a good example and a role model to those who are a part of it today,” said Cameron.

“So, kudos to Cooper for wanting to do this and being excited to support it for these past few years.”

With this being the last session of the year, Cameron also thanked all those who took care of breakfast: Ryan Smith, Jason Loewen, Sam Uyaivato, Mike Wilson, Brad Hackewich and Jeff Braun. On ice, Matt Lowry and Kevin Levan-

dosky have also helped out, bringing their wealth of hockey knowledge to help kids improve skills every Wednesday morning.

As for Kasprick, he simply hopes that the lessons and memories he took from the program as a youth, will have the same impact on those going through it themselves today.

“I’ve been a kid before and I looked up to junior hockey players, so me being able to, you know, do stuff like this and help the kids out meant a lot when I was a kid,” noted Kasprick. “I grew up out there every Wednesday. It’s a real positive memory for me. Stuff like that goes a long way, and the kids remember it. So try to, you know, have positive attitude every day when I come here and, you know, hopefully the kids remember that stuff.”

Classifieds

Crisis Pregnancy Centre

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

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

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

Drug problem? Yellowhead Narcotics Anonymous meets Sundays at 7 pm, at the Minnedosa Town Hall basement.

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

Obituary

Thelma Burton Funeral service for Thelma Burton will be held on June 6, 2 pm at the Neepawa United Church. Lunch to follow. Burial at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cancer Care.

“Betty” Preusentanz (née Kreutzer)

November 15, 1928 – February 17, 2026 It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Ella Elisabeth Preusentanz (née Kreutzer), lovingly known as Betty. Betty peacefully went to be with her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ at the age of 97. Betty was born on November 15, 1928, in the East Tupper district, northeast of Plumas, Manitoba. Betty was baptized and confirmed in the Zion Lutheran Church in Tupper. In her early adult years, Betty moved to Winnipeg and worked at The General Hospital, Scott Bathgate Company, and Eaton's Mail Order. In November 1951, she married the love of her life, Leo, and embraced her role as a devoted wife and stay-at-home mother. Together they shared 53 years of marriage and built a home filled with love, faith, and hospitality.

She was a strong woman of faith whose life was marked by kindness, joy, energy, and a deep love for family and community. Happy-go-lucky by nature, Betty was always prepared for visitors and loved opening her home to others. She never let anyone leave her house hungry or emptyhanded. Those who knew her well will fondly remember her love of phone calls and her signature goodbye at the end of the call: “bye, bye, bye, bye-bye, bye.”

Betty enjoyed baking, crocheting, knitting, quilting, ceramics, gardening, and playing board/card games. She enjoyed trying many hobbies and excelled at all of them. She was actively involved in her faith community, attending Joy Lutheran Church and in recent years growing deeper in her faith as she participated in a women’s Bible study group until mere days before her passing. While living at West Park Manor, one of her greatest joys was singing hymns. Betty always treasured each day as a gift and said so often.

Betty was predeceased by her parents, Heinrich and Katharina Kreutzer; her siblings John, Louise, Helen, Reinhold, Leonard, and Walter, as well as two siblings who passed away in infancy; and by her beloved husband, Leo.

She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her children Wayne (Shirley), Charlene (Harold), and Darwin; her grandchildren Jennifer (Clinton), Danielle, Jason (Kara), Melissa (Jeremy), and Janelle (Will); and her 15 great-grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

A funeral service was held on February 23 at Plumas Community Hall; interment followed at Waldersee Cemetery. Pastors Ed Mitchler and Clinton Kroeker officiated. Pallbearers were Jason Mitchler, Jeremy Hitching, Lori Kreutzer, Will Chambers, Clinton Kroeker, and Danielle Preusentanz. Pianist Arlene Walker led the hymns.

The family wishes to express heartfelt thanks to the staff of West Park Manor and The Grace Hospital for their compassionate care of Betty.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Betty’s faith, warmth, and generous spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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 reser ve the right to edit copy or to refuse to publish any adver tisement we deem illegal, libelous, misleading or offensive

For Sale or Rent

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

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

For Rent

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

Tender

Tender for AnnuAl Bid rATes

Westlake Watershed District invites tenders for Annual Bid (Equipment Rental) Rates for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.

More information regarding this opportunity can be obtained on the Westlake Watershed District website, at www.westlakewd.com or call the office at 204-767-2101.

Proposals will be accepted until 4:30pm March 31, 2026, as per directions in the Tender Sheet.

Thank You

We would like to sincerely thank our friends, families and both of our communities for the generous support we received in Shoal Lake on February 14th. Between the wedding shower gifts and celebration, the social ticket purchases; (both support and attendance), along with the prize donations, and the offerings to help in so many ways, we were overwhelmed that so many remembered us. THANK YOU all!

With love, Blake and Camille

Thank You

Our family would like to sincerely thank everyone who reached out with kind words, sympathy and shared memories of our beloved mother, Helen Plas (nee Lemky), who passed away on January 27, 2026.

We are truly grateful for the flowers, cards, phone calls, emails and all the thoughtful gestures made in Moms memory.

Your support has meant so much to us during this difficult time.

A heartful thank you to White's Funeral Home for your kindness and compassion.

We would also like to thank all the health care teams at Neepawa Hospital and Brandon Hospital as well as the Beautiful Plains Medical Clinic. To the doctors, nurses, palliative care staff, home care workers and Moms special driver, thank you for the care, team work, and support you provided. It brought us great comfort knowing she was surrounded by such dedicated and compassionate people. We also thank the management and residents of Kinsmen Kourt 2 for their friendship and support. A special thank you to her dear friends, Sandra, Adrianne and JoeAnn, and many others who touched her life. You were a true blessing to Mom.

Thank you to reverend Gladys Anderson for leading the service, to the pallbearers and to her three greatgrandchildren who shared a beautiful tribute. Hayden, Rory and Rya you made us so proud. To all our family, relatives and friends – thank you for celebrating Mom's life with us. To those who could not attend we felt your love and support.

Mom we treasure the memories we made with you. We are thankful for the times we shared and that we could be by your side with our families till your passing. You will never be forgotten. As you always said when leaving our place, “Love You, Leaving You”.

With Love always, Geraldine and Brian Smith and Family Mary-Ann and Brian Kasprick and Family

For Rent

HOUSE FOR RENT: in Neepawa, duplex unit, 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms, Concrete driveway & covered carport. Text/call 204-5961567. Available April 2026

One Bedroom Suite available for rent in Neepawa. Starting February 1st, Washer and Dryer Included. 346 Somerset Place, 55+, No pets, Call 1-204-841-4147.

www.meyersauctions.com

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 $24.00/hour with incremental increases to $26.10/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

Be a part of the HyLife experience

– your journey starts here!

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

Help Wanted

FOODS

Hog Receiving Barn Worker (NOC85100)

Why join our team?

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

FOODS

Industrial Butcher (NOC 94141)

Why join our team?

Career Opportunity

The current starting wage is $20.75/hour with incremental increases to $22.05/hour based on tenure

Quick Facts:

• Culturally diverse – employ people from all over the world

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

• 2500+ employees worldwide

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 100 positions.

The current starting wage is $17.95/hour with incremental increases to $26.10/hour based on tenure as per our Collective Agreement

Quick Facts:

• Culturally diverse – employ people from all over the world

Neepawa-Gladstone Co-op is hiring a FT PETROLEUM DRIVER at our BULK PETROLEUM DEPARTMENT in NEEPAWA, MANITOBA.

Who we are:

Neepawa-Gladstone Co-op is hiring SEASONAL CLASS 1 AND 3 DRIVERS for our upcoming AGRO SEASON at our AGRO CENTRE’S in NEEPAWA & GLADSTONE, MANITOB A.

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

Who we are:

What we can offer you:

• Competitive Wage

• Vacation: 10 working days of paid vacation

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

• 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

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. To learn more about who we are and how you can help bring our brand to life, visit us at www.neepawagladstoneco-op.crs

We are looking for:

An individual with the following qualifications:

- Excellent customer service skills

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. To learn more about who we are and how you can help bring our brand to life, visit us at www.neepawagladstoneco-op.crs

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

• PM Shift Premium

We are looking for:

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

Seasonal Class 1 or Class 3 drivers

• Full training, with genuine opportunities for career progression

• Employee Referral program - $500!

• Free parking

• Company events

• And more!!!!

Your duties may involve:

• 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

- Highly motivated and ability to multitask

- Strong interpersonal and communication skills

- Must be mechanically inclined and be able to perform heavy lifting

- Valid Class 3 Driver’s license with Air Endorsement required

- Petroleum knowledge would be an asset but not required

We are seeking experienced Class 1 and Class 3 truck drivers to join our team. The ideal candidates will possess a valid driver’s license and be able to provide a commercial driver’s abstract dated within the last 30 days at the time of the interview. Employment will range from 2-6 months.

• Full training, with genuine opportunities for career progression

• Employee Referral program - $500!

• Free parking

• Company events

• Receiving and unloading hog deliveries.

• Sorting hogs into appropriate receiving pens.

• And more!!!!

Closing Date: when position filled.

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

• Completing hog receiving documents to CFIA standards.

• Scraping trailers.

• Working outdoors and in a barn environment.

Your duties may include:

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

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.

To excel in this role, you should possess:

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

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

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

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

• 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

Apply online at www.neepawagladstoneco-op.crs or contact us at s.rempel@neepawagladstonecoop.com

• Completion of Secondary school or equivalent experience

• Capable of repetitive manual tasks

• Able to effectively communicate in English

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

HyLife 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:

• 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

Applications can be mailed to: Neepawa-Gladstone Co-op Box 879, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0

• Able to effectively communicate in English

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

Ways to apply:

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

- Must be able to provide a valid commercial driver’s abstract dated within 30 days at time of interview. Reporting directly to the Petroleum Division Manager, duties will include, but not limited to; customer service, processing customer transactions, product knowledge, inventory control, merchandising, and general Occupational Health and Safety responsibilities. We offer career advancement opportunities, competitive compensation, benefits package, company matched pension plan and learning/ development opportunities.

Apply online at www.neepawagladstoneco-op.crs or contact us at s.rempel@neepawagladstonecoop.com for more information. Scan the QR Code to be directed to the job posting.

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

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

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

NOTICES

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

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

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Manitoba Community Newspapers 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 publication, MCNA will get the information into the right hands for ONLY $35.00 + GST/HST. Call MCNA (204)

947-1691 for more information. See www.mcna.com under the “Types of Advertising” tab for more details. NOW BOOKING YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS FOR SPRING 2026! Let us help you book your blanket classified ads across Manitoba, and increase your presence! If have a booth at any upcoming TRADE SHOWS, advertise NOW, and let people know that you will be there by placing an ad with us! Your ad will be seen in the MCNA Member Newspapers, in over 368,000+ homes in Manitoba. Please Call THIS NEWSPAPER NOW to book, or call MCNA at (204) 947-1691 for more details or to book ads. Take advantage of our great pricing! MCNA - Manitoba Community Newspapers Association. www.mcna.com

Classified ad deadline Tuesday noon Cancellations and corrections only within business hours and corresponding deadlines.

Legion Ladies honoured for dedicated service

Kindergarten

Registration for the 2026 Fall Term

will be held during the regular school hours between March 2 and March 27, 2026 at the following schools:

Alonsa School Tele # 204-767-2168

Glenella School Tele # 204-352-4253

École Laurier (French Immersion) Tele # 204-447-2068 Ste. Rose School Tele # 204-447-2088

McCreary School Tele # 204-835-2083

We are once again proud to offer a Full-Time Kindergarten Program. All children born on or before December 31, 2021 are eligible to register.

To register you will need to bring your child’s Manitoba Health PHIN# and one of the following: Birth Certificate, Baptismal certificate, Certificate of live birth, Health card or Statutory declaration. If you have any questions, please feel free to call your school today.

HEARING LOCATION:

MUNICIPALITY OF NORTH NORFOLK UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE PLANNING ACT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

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

BY-LAW NO. 132/2026 Creating a NEW ZONING BY-LAW for the MUNICIPALITY OF NORTH NORFOLK

Municipality of North Norfolk Municipal Office, 27 Hampton St E, MacGregor, Manitoba

DATE & TIME:

Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 9:15 AM

GENERAL INTENT OF BY-LAW NO. 132/2026:

To create a new Zoning By-Law for the Municipality of North Norfolk that:

1) Divides the municipality into zoning districts;

2) Prescribes permitted and conditional uses for land and buildings in each zone;

3) Sets out the procedure for such matters as: applying and issuing development permits, zoning memoranda and other similar documents including the classes of development that do not require a development permit;

4) Sets out operative and interpretive clauses dealing with matters such as the intent and purpose of a zoning by-law and general definitions;

5) Sets out general development regulations dealing with matters such as building height, landscaping and parking; and

6) Sets out special land use regulations dealing with matters such as home occupations and livestock operations.

AREA AFFECTED:

All lands, structures and buildings in the Municipality of North Norfolk. The By-Law also provides for repealing Municipality of North Norfolk Zoning By-Laws 785/2011 & 772-2011 and all amendments thereto.

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:

Theresa Bergen, CMMA, Chief Administrative Officer Phone: 204-685-2211

A copy of the above by-law may be found on the Municipality’s website at www.northnorfolk.ca or may be inspected at the Municipal Office at 27 Hampton St E, MacGregor, Manitoba between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday. Copies may be made and extracts taken therefrom, upon request.

You may make representations on the by-law by participating in person, virtually or by providing a written submission before or at the hearing. To attend a public hearing virtually you must submit a request at least 48 hours before the hearing date to the Municipal Office at 204-685-2211 or email office@northnorfolk.ca. Anyone participating virtually must enable the camera on their device during their presentation.

To submit a written submission, you must include your full name, civic address, and date. Written submissions must be received by the Municipal Office before the hearing or presented by you at the hearing. All verbal or written submissions for the hearing become part of the public record and are available for anyone to view or obtain a copy

SUBMITTED

Pictured: Legion Ladies president Nancy Syntak with Jean Jackson, Leanne Harding, and Yvonne Ferguson. Jackson, Harding, and Ferguson were honoured with Life Memberships recently in recognition of their years of dedication to the Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary #23. Each of the recipients had Auxiliary and Legion Branch approval, as well as approval from the Legion Ladies Auxiliaries to the Royal Canadian Legion Manitoba & Northwestern Ontario Command for presentation of the award for their outstanding service.

Harding has been a member since 1972, Ferguson became a member in 1981, and Jackson has been a member since 2001. Congratulations to each of you.

Sponsor Night with the Neepawa Banner & Press

NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS

It was an eventful evening at the Yellowhead Community Rec Centre on Sunday, Feb. 22. Not only did the Neepawa Titans host the Virden Oil Capitals for its Hockey Fights Cancer evening, it was also the Neepawa Banner & Press’ sponsorship game.

Owners Ken and Christine Waddell represented the newspaper, and provided hearty support to the Neepawa Titans.

MUNICIPALITY OF McCREARY

NOTICE OF VOTERS LIST / PERSONAL SECURITY PROTECTION

Notice is hereby given that a copy of the VOTERS LIST may be revised at:

The Municipality of McCreary Office, 432 First Avenue, McCreary, Manitoba from Monday to Friday between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

During time the Senior Election Official (SEO) will be available to update the voters list by:

(a) adding the names of voters who are entitled to have their names on the list; (b) deleting the names of persons who are not entitled to have their names on the list; and (c) making such other correction of errors to the list as required.

VOTER ELIGIBILITY:

A person is eligible to have their name added to the Voters List if he or she is:

1) a Canadian citizen and at least 18 years of age on election day (October 28, 2026); and

2) a resident of the local authority for at least six months prior to election day, OR a registered owner of land in the municipality for at least six months prior to election day (April 28, 2026).

APPLICATION FOR PERSONAL SECURITY PROTECTION:

A voter may apply in writing to the SEO at Box 338, McCreary, Manitoba, R0J 1B0 no later than September 22, 2026, to have their name and other personal information omitted or obscured from the voters list in order to protect the voter’s personal security. The application may be submitted in person, by mail or email and must include your name, address and include proof of identity.

All changes to the voters list must be completed on or before September 22, 2026.

Dated at McCreary in the Province of Manitoba, on February 20, 2026.

Lorilee Ryzner

Senior Election Official (SEO) Municipality of McCreary 432 First Avenue, Box 338 McCreary, Manitoba, R0J 1B0 Ph: (204) 835-2309 Fax: (204) 835-2649

Email: municipality@mccreary.ca

Highland Medal Tests and clan gathering

Last week, the Neepawa Banner & Press had results from Expressive Dance with Crystal regarding the Highland Medal Tests held on Feb. 12 and 13 in Minnedosa. Shown here are a few photos from the occasion.

Also hosted this past weekend, on Feb. 21, Expressive Dance with Crystal’s highland dancers and families celebrated their 11th anniversary of clan gatherings. The celebration was hosted at the Minnedosa Ukranian Hall, welcoming 19 dancers and approximately 40 family members.

Neepawa Chamber features a wellness forum

It’s always a bonus when the expert panel are all local residents. Such was the case at the Neepawa and District Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting on Feb. 23.

Left to right, Darryl Gerrard, Dr. Emma Ball and Dr. Mark Perrett all made a presentations and then participated in a Q and A panel discussion on Health and Wellness.

Gerrard is a Fitness Coach, Ball is a locally raised doctor practising in Neepawa and Perrett, also a locally raised doctor, has been a chiropractor in Neepawa for 28 years.

By Ken Waddell Neepawa Banner & Press

The Neepawa Chamber of Commerce took a marked change of direction at their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Feb. 23. The meeting opened in a traditional fashion with a famous roast beef supper catered by the Neepawa Legion Ladies Auxilliary.

The next part of the meeting was traditional too, with the usual AGM process of reviewing the past year’s projects, income and expenses and setting a budget for 2026.

After that the above noted change of direction kicked in. Instead of a guest speaker, the Chamber arranged for a panel of local speakers to take to the podium. First speaker was noted fitness coach Darryl Gerrard. Now a retired farm machinery salesman,

Gerrard spoke of his passion for strength building, fitness and overall health. With all the information turned over to the crowd, Gerrard made the case for having physical fitness resulting in improved mental health.

The next speaker was Dr. Emma Ball, local Medical Resident. Ball was raised in Neepawa, obtained her medical degree and is now practising medicine in Neepawa. Ball emphasized the need for aspiring to good physical and mental health and the need to use the wide range of medical services available in Neepawa, both at the Beautiful Plains Medical Clinic and the Neepawa hospital. Ball explained that physical health is very important but equally important is mental health and wellness. Ball outlined many ways to achieve both.

The third speaker was

Dr. Mark Perrett of Keeping You Active Chiropractic Centre in Neepawa. Perrett brings 28 years of experience and work in the community to bear on the advice he offers.

After their initial presentations, the three sat as a panel and offered advice based on questions from moderator Amanda Naughton-Gale of the Salvation Army Neepawa Community Services and from the audience. The panel members discussed many matters including workplace health and safety, nutrition and work-life balances.

The full presentation can be seen on NACTV and is well worth watching for the information and advice offered by these three local experts. Their advice will be a welcome addition to your basket of well-being knowledge.

Farmers lose to Killarney in THHL post-season

By Eoin Devereux Neepawa Banner & Press

The Neepawa Farmers’ post-season luck has run out, thanks to the dominance of the Killarney Shamrocks. The Shamrocks, who were a near perfect 18-0-1 on the regular season in the Tiger Hills Hockey League, kept that momentum going in the playoffs, defeating Neepawa 3-games-to-0.

Killarney made a statement early in this quarterfinal series, winning the

opening two games at the Shamrock Centre by scores of 9-2 and 8-0. In game one, played on Monday, Feb. 16, Neepawa started strong, scoring both their goals early in the first period. Garett Rempel and Ethan Winters tallied for the Farmers. The Shamrocks, however, took over the rest of the way, replying with four goals before the end of the period. They’d add four more in the second, and another in the third, to make it a 9-2 final result.

Arden Open Bonspiel champs

Pictured here are the winners for Pool A (top) and Pool B (below) of the Arden Open Curling Bonspiel, which was hosted from Feb. 20 to 21 at the Arden Curling Club. The winners names are listed as they appear in the photo, from skip to lead. Pool A winners: Morgan Paramor, Hunter Cluett, Harvey Hanke, and Terry Buechler. Pool B winners: James Paramor, Wally Paramor, Nadine Kulbacki, and Tracin Paramor.

Game two was on Wednesday, Feb. 18, and was once again played in Killarney. And once again, the Shamrocks proved to be too much to handle, besting the Farmers 8-0.

Game three would see both teams hit the ice in Neepawa, at the Yellowhead Centre. Unfortunately, for the Farmers, the change in location made no difference, as they lost on Tuesday, Feb. 24, by the score of 5-1.

Sun dogs shine near Wellwood