February 13, 2026 Rivers Banner Subscription

Discover the heart of your community at Rivers Home Hardware

By Carolyn Phillips Rivers Banner

When you’re in need of tools, building supplies, or a little inspiration for your next DIY project, look no further than Rivers Home Hardware. Nestled in the heart of Rivers, Manitoba, our store isn’t just a place to shop; it’s a cornerstone of the community where every interaction matters. Located at 562 Second Ave, Rivers Home Hardware is proud to be your hometown hardware store, and we are committed to helping you make your home the best it can be.

In today’s world, it’s easy to forget the power of shopping local. But when you choose Rivers Home Hardware, you’re not just purchasing a product; you’re supporting hard-working locals and contributing to the strength of our local economy. Every dollar you spend here stays in the community, fostering growth, creating jobs, and keeping the spirit of our town alive. It’s a shopping experience that goes beyond the transaction; it’s about community connection and shared values. Our diverse range of offerings means we have everything you need for your next project. From high-quality building supplies to DIY garage and shed kits, Rivers Home Hardware is here to equip you with the best materials for your endeavors. If gardening is more your style, we boast an extensive selection of gardening supplies that can help you cultivate your dream landscape.

To further enhance your home, we offer a variety of fencing options to help you create the ideal outdoor space while ensuring your privacy and security. With our knowledgeable staff always ready to lend a hand, you can feel confident in making the right choices for your home and garden. And while we’re proud of our hardware selection, you can also find your household essentials across the street. Our store provides everything you may need—from appliances to plumbing supplies, home décor and paint. Together, the two sites create a full-service shopping experience that caters

to every aspect of home improvement.

Do you dream of having a brand new, ready-to-move home? We can help you with that as well! Rivers Home Hardware can assist in designing and building your dream house, making the process smoother and more enjoyable. We understand that your home is not just a place to live; it’s an expression of who you are.

What truly sets Rivers Home Hardware apart is our dedication to improving life at home. Our retail experience emphasizes not only quality products but also superior customer service characterized by expert advice and a genuine understanding of our community’s needs. Our team takes the time to get to know you, ensuring that we provide personalized service that reflects your unique style and taste.

In a world dominated by large, faceless retailers, Rivers Home Hardware stands out as a beacon of local commitment. We are proud to serve our community, and we invite you to be part of this journey. Visit us today at 562 Second Ave, and discover how we can help you build, create, and improve your home with a personal touch. Thank you for supporting Rivers Home Hardware—your trusted hometown hardware store!

February is Heart Month

Submitted

By Prairie Mountain Health

February i s H eart M onth, a t ime w hen M anitobans a re e ncouraged t o p ause a nd t ake s tock of their heart and brain health. This year, Heart & S troke i s e mphasizing t he i mportance o f r ecognizing a nd m anaging modifiable r isk f actors for heart disease and stroke—risks that are more common t han m any p eople r ealize. I n f act, 9 i n 10 Manitobans have at least one risk factor for heart disease or stroke.

To h elp i ndividuals u nderstand t hese r isks, Heart & S troke o ffers a f ree, o nline R isk S creen tool, w hich p rovides a p ersonalized a ction p lan based o n l ifestyle f actors, medical h istory, a ge, sex, a nd w omen’s l ife s tages, i ncluding p regnancy and menopause.

For more i nformation, y ou c an a lso r eview t he newly r eleased 2 026 H eart M onth R eport: T he state o f r isk f actors f or heart d isease a nd s troke in C anada o r c ontact H eart a nd S troke d irectly at 2 04-926-3132 o r e mail: k aitlyn.archibald@ heartandstroke.ca.

In P rairie M ountain H ealth ( PMH), P rimary Care offers a regional Heart Program that provides ongoing education, support, and encouragement to c lients f ollowing a c ardiac e vent o r d iagnosis. Our program offers 1:1 education for clients with a variety of heart conditions and those recovering after heart s urgery. We a lso o ffer g roup c lasses every Tuesday, 1:30–3:00 p .m t hat c an b e a ccessed in-person i n B randon o r v irtually f rom t he c omfort of your own home. Topics include: The Heart, Nutrition, E xercise, S tress & C oping, a nd H eart Medications. Each session is facilitated by clinical

staff w ith ex pertise o n t he t opic. R eferrals t o t his program a re a ccepted f rom healthcare p roviders and t hrough s elf-referral. I f y ou a re u ncertain i f this p rogram i s r ight f or y ou a nd w ant t o l earn more, c ontact t he P MH H eart P rogram a t 2 04578-4225 or 204-578-4204.

In a ddition t o c ardiac s pecific e ducation, o ur Chronic D isease E ducation P rogram a nd H ealth Promotion Team a lso o ffer a v ariety o f g roup classes that support heart health at a broader level; including such topics as nutrition, blood pressure and cholesterol management. Get Better Together supports t hose l iving w ith health c onditions t o better manage their health through group support and discussions. Commit to Quit and the Tobacco Quit C ard a nd C ounselling p rograms p rovide education a nd c ounselling f or p eople i nterested in quitting smoking. To learn more about any of these o fferings, y ou c an f ollow t he l inks o r c all 1-877-509-7852.

For families looking to get active and learn more about heart health, the 2026 Mega Heart Event is coming up on February 22, 2026 from 1:00–4:00 p.m. a t t he Wellness I nstitute, 1075 L eila A ve, Winnipeg, MB. This is a free, family-friendly event featuring walks, Zumba, CPR demos, science activities, health booths, and more for young and old.

In honour of Heart Month, we encourage everyone t o t ake o ne s tep t his February t oward b etter heart health: t ry u sing t he o nline R isk S creen tool, c heck o ut a l ink i n t he a rticle a bove, a dd a walk i nto y our w eek, c ook a heart - healthy meal, o r start a c onversation w ith a f amily member a bout risk factors.

Every s tep c ounts a nd t ogether, w e c an bu ild a heart - healthier Manitoba.

Rivers Banner

Valentine’s Day Chocolate Lava Cake

Ingredients

• 6 ounces (170g) high-quality semi-sweet chocolate*

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)

• 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar

• 1/8 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 2 large egg yolks*

• optional for topping: ice cream, berries, and/or chocolate syrup

Directions

1. Spray four 6-ounce ramekins with nonstick cooking spray and dust with cocoa powder. This ensures the cakes will seamlessly come out of the ramekins when inverted onto a plate in step 7. Or spray half of a 12-count muffin pan and dust with cocoa powder. If baking in a muffin pan, the recipe will yield 6 cakes.

2. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).

3. Coarsely chop the chocolate. Place butter in a medium heat-proof bowl, then add chopped chocolate on top. Microwave on high in 10-second increments, stirring after each until completely smooth. Set aside.

4. Whisk the f lour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt together in a small bowl. W hisk the eggs and egg yolks together until combined in another small bowl. Pour the flour mixture and eggs into the bowl of chocolate. Slowly stir everything together using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon. If there are any lumps, gently use your whisk to rid them. The batter will be slightly thick.

5. Spoon chocolate batter evenly into each prepared ramekin or muffin cup.

6. Place ramekins onto a baking sheet and bake for 12–14 minutes until the sides appear solid and firm; the tops will still look soft. *If baking in a muffin pan, the cakes only take about 8–10 minutes.

7. Allow to cool for 1 minute, then cover each with an inverted plate and turn over. Use an oven mitt because those ramekins are hot! The cakes should release easily from the ramekin. *If you used a muffin pan, use a spoon to release the cakes from the pan and place each upside down on plates.

8. Add toppings. Serve immediately.

Manitoba Government increases school funding by $79.8 million, bringing total investment to nearly $2 billion

School funding for 2026-27 supports Divisions with 3.5 per cent increase

Submitted

By Manitoba Government

The Manitoba government is increasing its investment in schools by $79.8 million for the 2026-27 school year, Education and Early Childhood Minister Tracy Schmidt announced today.

“Our government is committed to making sure every Manitoba family can count on strong, stable public schools, year after year. We are meeting the needs of students and communities by building new schools and feeding kids with our universal school food program,” said Schmidt. “This is good news for teachers, school divisions and families while building a brighter future for Manitoba’s students.”

The Manitoba government is allocating $11.4 million in public school funding to support divisions most affected by teacher salary harmonization. Salary harmonization will be implemented in the 2026-27 school year. Salary harmonization standardizes teacher pay scales across school divisions to help minimize disparities.

“By working together, we are creating a more equitable system that benefits teachers and supports stability for school divisions at a time when the demands on public schools are more complex than ever before,” said Alan Campbell, president, Manitoba School Boards Association. “School boards recognize that the funding contribution for harmonization announced today is a step in the right direction and we look forward to continuing

Thanks you Sponsors

The Lenore Curling Club would like to thank all of our sponsors for their generous donations to the Annual Lenore Bonspiel!

• Allan and Brenda Hill

• Arnold and Roberta Bailey

• Barry and Kathy Routledge

• Boston Pizza

• Chicken Chef

• Core Ag

• Corex

• Fountain Tire

• Foxtail Hauling

• Fusion Credit Union

• Garry Slimmon

• Geordie and MayAnne McWhirter

• Great Western Tong

• Greg and Lynn Alexander

• Guild Insurance

• Heartland Livestock

• Irene Draper

• JGL

• Jonathon Hodson

• Larry and Jeanette Logan

• Long Shot

• Masson Accounting

• Neilson Seeds

• Oak Lake Golf Course

• Parrish and Heimbecker

• Piston Ring

• RF Now

• RCL Texas Holdem

• Rea and Linda Kinnaird

• Renards Meat Services

• Robert and Dianne Alexander

• Robert Bailey

• Routledge Farms

• Routledge Oilfield

• Strike Welding Specialities

our work with government to ensure funding fully meets the needs of students, staff and communities across Manitoba.”

The 3.5 per cent funding increase for public schools in the 2026-27 school year will help manage enrolment changes and ensure students have the supports they need to succeed. The formula guarantee will continue for 2026-27, ensuring every school division receives an increase to the previous year’s funding amount.

The Manitoba government’s 2026-27 school funding now totals $1.995 billion and includes:

• $51 million increase to help public schools with operating costs, which includes the investment in salary harmonization and technical vocational education;

• $30 million for a universal school nutrition program and Nello’s Law, which protects the program for years to come, plus an additional $3 million from the sale of U.S. alcohol products for the Children’s Nutrition Council;

• $15.2 million increase in capital sup -

• Sunrise Credit Union

• Swift Oilfield

• Tim and Cheryl Hill

• Tralle Works Ltd

• Tundra Oil and Gas

• Valleyview Co-op

• Virden Ag and Parts

• Virden Animal Hospital

• Virden Ford

• Virden Mainline Motors

• Virden Recreation and Watersports

• Whyte’s Lumber

• Wolverine Supplies

• Woodworth Dodge

• Woodworth Fire Department

• Woodworth Trucking

Many thanks to all the volunteers for the hours of work done each year.

port, which includes principal and interest costs related to building schools; and

• $16.6 million increase to independent schools under the funding agreement.

Manitoba is also on track to build four new schools, including Devonshire Park and Prairie Point in Winnipeg, Meadowlands in West St. Paul and another in southwest Brandon.

For more information on school funding, visit https://edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/finance/schfund/ index.html.

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

RIVERDALE MUNICIPALITY

BY-LAW NO. 2025-04 being a

BY-LAW TO CLOSE PORTIONS OF A MUNICIPAL ROAD AND PUBLIC RESERVE AND AUTHROIZE THE SALE OF THE LAND

HEARING Riverdale Municipal Council Chambers LOCATION: 670 – 2nd Avenue Box 520 Rivers, Manitoba ROX-1X0

DATE & TIME: March 3rd, 2026 at 6:05 p.m.

GENERAL To close a portion of a municipal road located between INTENT OF SW 1/4 20-12-20 WPM Sioux Lane, plan 1315 and sell BY-LAW NO. to adjacent land owners.

2025-04: AREA Lots 10-16 and west of lot 31, Plan 1315 BLTO AFFECTED BY Sioux Lane, Chimo Resort, Rivers, Manitoba as BY-LAW NO. identified below. 2025-04:

FOR

Marci Quane

INFORMATION Chief Administrative Officer CONTACT: Riverdale Municipality 670 – 2nd Avenue Box 520 Rivers, Manitoba ROX-1X0 (204) 328-5300

A copy of the above proposal

Perspectives

Tundra

By Chad Carpenter

Get ready for local elections

As we are just getting into 2026, it’s a good time to review our options about local council elections. Our small group of three family owned newspapers, the Neepawa Banner & Press, the Rivers Banner and the Virden EmpireAdvance collectively cover 24 towns and municipalities and seven school divisions.

This fall is election time and the big day will be October 28, 2026. It’s time for prospective candidates to start thinking about their candidacy. It’s also time for voters to start encouraging good people to run for office. Why is it so important? It’s because our local school boards and councils affect our lives more than any other level of government. More than the federal and provincial government and more than the difficulties that may come our way from international affairs. In real estate they say, location, location, location. In politics it’s local, local, local?

A person that I often check with about my columns had a good suggestion. He said, “Ask folks to organize a committee, a group or circle of friends who would talk to voters to promote the best or favourite candidate”. That way they could get really involved in the political process.

In a recent letter released to the public, Courtney Kosteski, CAO for the RM of Gilbert Plains asked all councillors and members of the public to be more civil.

She said, “Many good, experienced CAOs are leaving the profession. Not because they don’t care, but because the job has become increasingly difficult to sustain. Ongoing negativity, public hostility, name-calling, and personal attacks – often played out loudly on social media – take a real toll.” Kosteski

Rivers Banner

Right in the Centre

Ken Waddell

“ Criticize ideas –not people

set out eight principles for better results in municipal matters.

1.Criticize ideas – not people

2.Understand roles and limits

3. Pause before posting

4. Ask questions before assuming intent

5. Use proper channels

6. Respect that public servants are human

7. Recognize positive work

8. Model the behaviour you expect

Following those principles would go a long way towards better governance.

In one way or another, I have observed or been involved with municipal politics for over 50 years and I believe that local politics is both more complicated and more difficult than I have ever seen it.

Many years ago, a municipal reeve said all that the RMs had to worry about was gravelling and upgrading the roads in the summer and plowing the roads in the winter. I don’t think it was ever that simple in the past but it is far beyond that today. Senior levels of government have off-loaded responsibilities for

”

everything from roads and drainage to health care. And every off-load brings its own costs and trouble.

While there is a lot of stress and even conflict in municipal and school administration, well run councils and boards are essential.

There’s an old rural adage about voting-If you don’t vote, don’t complain. As voting percentages fall, and they are dropping, it seems that the non-voters are in two categories. The first group don’t vote but they still complain a lot. The second group don’t vote and don’t say much. Quite frankly, neither group is much use to the functioning of our democracy. It is amazing to me that people don’t vote. Possibly we are way too comfortable, maybe there are other reasons.

We have a number of months to bring changes or improvements to our communities, don’t miss that chance

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

And then there were four...

Zippo, a kitten, has been added to the household. It’s been a very long time since I have shared my home with a cat. On the farm there usually was at least one house cat, on the acreage we had two - Ed was concerned that with our busy schedules one cat would get lonely, so we got two. Poots and Boots lived long and were great mousers, they had the run of the house and the yard. They played well with children and controlled the moles in the garden. They got old and we quietly released them from this world before I needed to move to town.

Way back in late August this wee little mischief maker, a true tabby, joined our household. (Her name, Zippo, is from the distinct orange flame on her forehead.) And it’s never been the same! Actually it’s better. Time was taken introducing her to Arie and now to watch them play - wrestle and chase, attack and defend - is absolutely delightful. Zippo will lie in wait and then pounce from the top of the chair. And the chase is on. There have been a few changes that I have had to make. Do not leave a closet door open or ajar. Put away the sewing needles after every use. She loves the fiber fill for quilts and I solemnly avow she has a stash somewhere that she keeps bringing out in bits and bobs. It truly is easier to keep the fireplace mantle free from any object. It was difficult to reconstruct the beautiful lego flower arrangement that got toppled….and then there was the day that my grand dog stayed for a few hours….Meeka is a beautiful mid size dog, well behaved and gentle, but Zippo didn’t know that! A leap from the chair to the cat tree to the chair and across to the couch had the pictures on the wall swinging madly! Nothing fell, but we learned that swaying frame does not safely support a kitten….

Zippo and I have words about my growing plants. I already have the shelving in my room, and the door is mostly closed. There is something about the water in the watering can that is irresistible. I will catch her, paw fully extended, dipping into the water and gentilelly licking it before repeating the process. Now the earth is a different scene. I have become accustomed to walking on pieces of dirt on the mat, on the floor and not quiet out the door. I know how much I enjoy playing in the soil so I can’t really blame her. The mini cucumber has just started to bloom and the mini tomatoes just got transplanted into larger pots…I hope she leaves them alone.

Zippo’s favourite perch is any windowsill. By the time Arie and I are outside for her morning bathroom break, Zippo has gained her perch and is watching us. So far, she is not an outdoor cat but she has taken to watching for an opportunity to escape.

Would I have gotten a kitten/cat? Not likely. Am I sorry we have one. Not likely. Well, not yet!

Oak Lake Rink comes alive again during successful Open Bonspiel

By Ev Nolan Rivers Banner

What a week it was at the curling rink! From the first draw to the final rock, the building was full of energy, laughter, and the unmistakable sound of stones crashing together as the annual Open Bonspiel made a strong return.

This year’s event welcomed 18 teams, something organizers say has not happened in roughly 15 years. The strong turnout brought a renewed excitement to the club, filling both the ice and the lounge with curlers, spectators, and visiting teams throughout the week.

Club president, John Michael Klassen, now in his 18th year, said it was especially rewarding to see the facility come alive again.

“We were super happy to see the rink so full of local and nonlocal people. It had a great buzz all week that we haven’t had in a few years and we couldn’t be happier with how it went.”

Games throughout the week featured tight ends, carefully planned strategy, and plenty of great shot making. Each day brought new matchups and friendly competition, with teams enjoying both the challenge on the ice and the social atmosphere off it. Many spectators stayed to watch late games, gathering along the glass and cheering on the players as matches came down to the final stones.

After several days of competition, the final standings were as follows:

1st — Jason Heaman rink from Virden

2nd — Albert Rimke rink from Oak Lake

3rd — Willie Smith rink from Griswold

All three teams played consistently strong curling throughout the event, earning their spots after a week of competitive games.

Behind the scenes, the success of the bonspiel depended on many helping hands. Volunteers kept the ice in great condition, meals were prepared, and organizers worked throughout the week to keep the draws running smoothly. The club also expressed appreciation for the strong support from sponsors and donors who help make events like this possible.

Special thanks were extended to Ted and Sharon Taylor, Dennis and Denise Griffith, Art and Lynda Denbow, Louis and Sherry Vachon, Strike Welding, South Country Electric, Fusion Credit Union, Tundra Oil and Gas, Fountain Tire, Virden Rec and

The strong turnout and positive atmosphere marked a welcome boost for the club and the community, showing that interest in curling remains strong when people have a chance to gather.

And the season is far from over!

The club is still looking for five more teams to enter the upcoming Two Man Bonspiel, scheduled for February 13 and 14. Known for its faster pace and relaxed atmosphere, the event is always a favourite among players and spectators alike.

Thoughtful Valentine’s gifts

Submitted By Metro Creative

Valentine’s Day brightens up the bleakness of the shortest and most wintry month of the year for the northern part of the globe. Businesses and homes are awash in pink and red each February, with heart-shaped

decorations and boxes filling up store aisles. Sending heartfelt sentiments is a large part of celebrating Valentine’s Day, and most people cherish the day for the opportunity to bestow gifts on the ones they love.

The National Retail Federation says more than half of all consumers typically plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day. In 2025, $27.5 billion was spent on the holiday, with consumers continuing to prioritize gifting those closest to them.

The NRF reports the top

gift categories for Valentine’s Day are candy, flowers, greeting cards, an evening out, and jewelry. Here’s how to make these gifts more thoughtful and endearing.

Candy

Gift givers can select candy that is preferable to their loved one instead of choosing the first box of chocolate they find at the store. Perhaps the person you love likes confections from a boutique candy shop a few towns over or has a hankering for candy from overseas? Mexico, for example, is known for its Dulce de Leche, while Halva is a dense, sweet treat from the Middle East. Choosing a special candy really sets the gift apart.

Flowers

Flowers are special gifts. Too often, people feel pressured to buy roses on Valentine’s Day, even if this might not be a special someone’s preferred flower. Choose, instead, a flower that has particular meaning to the person or one that is known to be a favorite. Aster and Baby’s Breath are two blooms known for being symbols of love, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

Greeting cards

A handmade card may express warmer sentiments than one picked up at the store, particularly since the former can be customized to the recipient. Include personalized sentiments, inside jokes or memories of time spent together. Craft and hobby stores offer plenty of supplies for paper crafting, so it’s possible to create a lovely greeting card with minimal effort.

A night out

A night out can be tailored to the interests of the couple celebrating. Book a dinner at a restaurant that was the scene of your first date; otherwise, stay in and watch a movie you each love.

Jewelry

Jewelry is a very personal gift. While it may seem like a great idea to surprise a special someone with a bracelet or earrings, if the style is off or the color wrong, the piece may not be worn. Rather, the surprise can be a trip to the jewelry store together to pick out something recipients wear all the time.

Gifts that fit the interests, personality and memories of a couple can be especially meaningful on Valentine’s Day.

We Love Puzzles

Puzzles and Games from Rivers Banner

ANSWERS:

Spelling

Scramble

Unscramble these love-ly letters!

RM of Oakview appoints committee representatives for 2026

RM of Oakview Meeting Minutes - January 13, 2026

Submitted

By RM of Oakview

Present Reeve Robert Christie, Deputy Reeve: Bill Aaroe, Councillors: Mark Gill, Lloyd Evans, Gavin Reynolds and Ian Christie, Virtually: Frank Hyndman, Staff in attendance CAO: Mark Humphries, Administrative Assistant: Alexandria Grace Council gave second and third reading to ByLaw No. 2025-10, being a by-law to amend By-Law No 2025-1 as approved by Municipal Board Order E-25-117.

Reynolds/Gill-Whereas Richard and Kelly English have applied for a Conditional Use Order to provide for Farm Dwelling use in the “AG” Agricultural General Zone at NE 26-14-21 WPM; and Whereas the Council has held a public hearing to hear representation in favour and in opposition to the application; Now therefore in consideration of any representation made at the hearing and of the application itself, the Council hereby approves the application as submitted and authorize that Conditional Use Order No. 2026-007-001-CU be issued. Carried Approval of accounts in the amount of $263,896.80 were approved.Councillor Reynolds declared and vacated the chamber.

Gill/Christie-That the Council of the R.M. of Oakview approves payment of Celtic Power & Machining Invoice# 0392728 in the amount of $1,772.06 paid by cheque No.12532. Carried

Aaroe/Christie-That the Council of the R. M. of Oakview approve payment of Manitoba Water Services Board December 31, 2025 in the amount of $901,693.11 as paid by cheque # 12548. Carried Reynolds/Evans-Whereas The Council of The RM of Oakview has reviewed the three year contract for the supply of gravel from Matthew Bayes and Sonya Bayes for the years 2026, 2027, 2028; Therefore, be it resolved that Council of the RM of Oakview authorize The Reeve and CAO to sign the agreement. Carried Councillor Gill declared and vacated the chamber.

Aaroe/Christie-Therefore be it resolved that council authorizes the CAO to advertise a tender for Gravel Crushing for 2026. Carried Reynolds/Aaroe-Therefore be it resolved that council authorizes the CAO to advertise a tender for Haul to Stockpile Tender for 2026. Carried Reynolds/Evans-Therefore be it resolved that council authorizes the CAO to advertise a tender for Gravel Hauling and Spreading for 2026. Carried Evans/Reynolds-Therefore be it resolved that council authorizes the CAO to advertise a tender for Road side Mowing for the 2026 season. Carried Aroe/Reynolds-Whereas a Notice of Intent to file a caveat on property owned by Brucklyn Farms Inc. has been received from Ducks Unlimited Canada; and

Whereas the Notice of Intent states that Ducks Unlimited Canada intends to enter into a “No Break, No Drain” Conservation Agreement, to conserve wildlife habitat, with Brucklyn Farms Inc. at W 1/2 9-15-19W1; and Whereas a party served with this notice who wishes to object to the registration of the caveat has 30 days to make application; Now Therefore be it resolved that the Rural

Municipality of Oakview does not object to the application. Carried

Reynolds/Christie-Whereas a Notice of Intent to file a caveat on property owned by Matthew and Sarah Ramsey has been received from Ducks Unlimited Canada; and

Whereas the Notice of Intent states that Ducks Unlimited Canada intends to enter into a “No Break, No Drain” Conservation Agreement, to conserve wildlife habitat, with Matthew and Sarah Ramsey at NE9-15-22W1, SE9-15-22W1, SW3-1522W1 and NW3-15-22W1; and

Whereas a party served with this notice who wishes to object to the registration of the caveat has 30 days to make application;

Now Therefore be it resolved that the Rural Municipality of Oakview does not object to the application. Carried

Reynolds/Evans-Whereas the Rapid City Regional Library have completed their draft budget for 2026;

Therefore, be it resolved that the Council of the R. M. of Oakview accept the proposed budget for the Rapid City Regional Library with the 2026 levy in the amount of $29,351.11 and authorize the C.A.O. to pay the 2026 levy in two instalments with 50% due immediately and 50% paid in September 2026. Carried

Evans/ Reynolds

That the Council of the R. M. of Oakview do hereby appoint the following representatives to the various committees for 2026:

• Protective Services

Policing ( R.C.M.P. A dvisory): S tephen Carter, Mark Humphries

• Rapid City Fire Department: Lloyd Evans

• Oak River Fire Department: Mark Gill, Bill Aaroe

• Public Health and Welfare Services

• Health – Park Residence: Bill Aaroe

• Minnedosa Hospital Foundation: Ian Christie, Bob Christie, alternate Lloyd Evans

• Hamiota Hospital Foundation: Bill Aaroe, Ross Argue Hamiota Stakeholder: Bill Aaroe

• Riverdale Hospital: Richard Heapy

• Environmental Development Services

• Midwest Planning District: Frank Hyndman, Bill Aaroe, Alt. Bob Christie

• Economic Development Services Committee

• Midwest Weed Board: Bob Christie, Bill Aaroe, Alt. Mark Gill

• Veterinary Board

Shoal Lake: Brent Fortune

Minnedosa: Joey Bootsman

• AWWD – Lower Little Sask River Subdistrict: Bob Christie, Gail Bridgeman

• AWWD – Oak River Subdistrict: Bill Aaroe, Kaye Wolstenholme

• CAWD – Epinette/Willow: Lloyd Evans

• Community Development Corporation: Gavin Reynolds

• Brandon & Area Community Foundation: Lloyd Evans

• Western Caucus: Bill Aaroe, Mark Humphries

• Recreation and Culture Committee

• Rollingdale Workshop: Michelle Anderson

• Newdale Hall: Brent Fortune

• Rapid City & District Library: Lloyd Evans, Terry Gill, Vera Kolesar, Daryl Andrew,

Donna

• Anderson

• Clack Museum: Bill Aaroe

• Rapid City Legion Memorial Community Centre: Bob Christie

• Rapid City Museum: Bob Christie

• Senior Services: Ian Christie, Lloyd Evans

• Rapid City Legion Gardens: Linda Thomson

• Rapid City Community Complex: Bob Christie

• Valleyview Seniors Housing Inc.: Bill Aaroe

• Rapid City Beach & Reservoir: Lloyd Evans, Bob Christie

• Oak River Playground Committee: Bill Aaroe

• LUD

• LUD of Oak River: Mark Gill LUD of Rapid City: Ian Christie Carried

2026 ROAD GRAVELLING TENDER NOTICE

Hamiota Municipality is inviting tenders to spread 13,290 - cubic yards of Traffic Gravel on Municipal roads transported from a gravel pit located at SE ¼ 5-11-22 WPM between May and July 31, 2026.

Sealed tenders will be accepted until 4:00 pm on Friday, February 27, 2026 For Tender documents and Specifications or for more information please forward inquiries to:

Lorra Eastcott CAO, Hamiota Municipality

P.O. Box 100, Hamiota MB. R0M 0T0

Tel : 204-764-3050 ext 105

Email: cao@hamiota.com

We are hiring!

We have a new opportunity to highlight: Service Worker

Full-Time, Regular Competition #48-25/26 Brandon, Manitoba

Salary: $44,242 to $51,938 annually ($21.27 to $24.97 hourly)

Classification: Service Worker 2

As a Service Worker in our Facilities team, you will play a key role in maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and functionality of our campus. Reporting to the Building Services Manager, you will ensure that the environment is well-maintained and conducive to learning.

For more information, please visit www.assiniboine.net/careers.

Assiniboine welcomes applications from all qualified candidates who are legally entitled to work in Canada, including Indigenous peoples, persons of all abilities, members of visible minorities, all genders and sexual orientations, and all other groups protected by the Human Rights Code.

Assiniboine College is privileged to provide learning opportunities on the lands of the Dakota Oyate, Nakoda Oyate, Ininiwak, Nehethowak, Nehiyawak, Anishininewuk, Denesuline, Anishinaabeg, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

For accommodations or alternative formats, contact careers@assiniboine.net or 204 725 8729.

If you are interested in this career opportunity, please email your resume and cover letter with reference to Competition #48-25/26 to: careers@assiniboine.net

We thank you for your interest. Those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

2026 GRAVEL CRUSHING TENDER NOTICE

Hamiota Municipality is inviting tenders to crush 30,000 cubic yards of ¾ inch Traffic Gravel by September 30, 2026 Sealed tenders will be accepted until 4:00 pm on Friday, February 27, 2026 For Tender documents and Specifications or for more information please forward inquiries to:

Lorra Eastcott CAO, Hamiota Municipality

P.O. Box 100, Hamiota MB. R0M 0T0

Tel : 204-764-3050 ext 105

Email: cao@hamiota.com

Proposed Budget 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Access the presentation via a link on the Rolling River School Division (RRSD) website homepage https://www.rrsd.mb.ca/ A summary of the proposed budget will be available on the RRSD website on February 27, 2026 links as follows Governance – Budget/Finance- Upcoming Budget

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Stewart Endeavors

Rivers Jets Await Playoff Matchup

By Robin Wark Rivers Banner

The Rivers Jets are waiting on the runway.

The local senior hockey team has earned a first-round bye in the Tiger Hills Hockey League playoffs and will now wait to see who they face in the second round.

Rivers finished the regular season with

a 14-4-1-0 record, good for fourth place overall. The top four teams — Killarney, Minnedosa, Hartney, and Rivers — advance directly to the second round. Those teams will select their opponents in order of regular-season finish.

The first round features the No. 5 Virden Oil Kings against the No. 11 Souris Elks, No. 6 Boissevain Border

Kings versus the No. 12 Carberry Plainsmen, No. 7 Neepawa Farmers against the No. 10 Deloraine Royals, and No. 8 Melita Bisons facing the No. 9 MacGregor Wild. Offensively, Luke DeCorby led the way for Rivers, finishing fourth in league scoring with 43 points in 18 games. He also ranked fourth in both goals (18) and assists

Ref Memories

Gerry

Nolan Ref to writer

Taking a look at other infractions, following along from last week. High sticking. A player is to be in control of his stick thus hitting an opponent in the head with your stick is a minor penalty. It can also be called as a double minor, a major or a match penalty. Now one thing to look for is if a player is bent forward and a player hits the player along the boards and his stick comes in contact with the other player’s head, is that a high stick? In my opinion, no, that is not a penalty! It is just a natural state that the player got hit.

I remember Garry Bowles from Elkhorn was penalized a number of times for elbowing. The problem was if you were not figuring it out, Garry was tall and many players would try to scoot underneath him to get the puck to the net. Garry could not help the fact he was tall and although it would

appear he was elbowing the opposition, it was just his natural height that made it appear that way. No penalty should have been assessed, but I saw him called for that infraction, far too many times I have watched some minor hockey this season and have seen some referees that just need experience and confidence in their game that they are making correct judgements in their penalty selection. Like players and coaches, officials need coaching and instruction as well. I have always said two things, the importance of positioning and hustle. As an official you are getting paid for the game you are officiating, hustle at all times, keep your hands out of your pockets and just give it your all. This will cover a multitude of mistakes!

Another difficult call is the slash. At what point is it a slash? Is it a tap on the stick

(25). Captain Riley Shamray placed 11th in scoring with 31 points, while first-year Jet Kaelen Huibers finished 20th with 27 points.

The Jets closed out the regular season with a 4-1 home loss to the Hartney Blues on Feb. 7. Josh Burdett scored Rivers’ lone goal, assisted by Shamray. Goaltender Riley Lamb made 24 saves. Hartney went 2-for-5 on the power play, while Rivers was held scoreless on three opportunities.

or the gloves, is it a hack? What is the determining factor on whether a penalty is issued? Again this is a difficult penalty to call as it involves judgement. Two officials may have a difference in judgement about any given play. The NHL has adopted anything on the hands as a penalty. I do not necessarily agree with that, but as long as they are consistent with that call, I am good with it. The players are the ones that need to adapt to that particular call.

Consistency is what it is all about. To all you young referee’s out there, get it established what penalty calls are nonnegotiable, this is always going to be a penalty and stick with it. This will help you become consistent! Work hard on your game and give the best effort you can give each and every game. We need you officials, otherwise there is no game.

I hope all the officials are having a great year and enjoy their time on the ice. You are a team as well, encourage one another. Talk about the game you are working and most important get into your rule book often throughout the season. Until next time!

Rivers Banner

Huskies stun favoured Golden Bears at Hamiota

By Dale Davison Rivers Banner

Westman High School Hockey League action came to the Hamiota & District Sports Complex on Thursday Feb. 5 as the Hamiota/Rivers/ Elton (HRES) Huskies hosted the Virden Golden Bears. The fourth place Bears were favoured to win but the ninth place Huskies had other ideas.

It was a tight game with equal shots on goal. The Huskies held the lead for most of the game with goals from Carter Rozdeba, Duncan McLean, Matao Finnie and Nash McMaster. Reed McGrath kept Virden in the game with a goal in each of the first two periods until the Bears tied it with goals from Dexan Routledge and Beckham Clarke early in the third.

The game winner came when Huskies’ Harlen Bridges scored a short-handed goal with thirteen minutes left. Corbin Munz added the insurance goal to seal the deal.

The refs were kept busy, handing out ten penalties to the Huskies and eight to the Bears.