January 23, 2026 Rivers Banner Subscription

RiveRs BanneR

Local People. Local Stories.

Supporting local youth: Rivers and District Chamber of Commerce scholarship

The heart of any thriving community lies in its small businesses, serving as the backbone of local economies and fostering innovation and growth. Understanding this essential role, the Rivers and District Chamber of Commerce is committed to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders. This dedication is exemplified through the annual scholarship program, which offers a $1,000 scholarship to a deserving local youth passionate about pursuing business-related studies at the post-secondary level.

This scholarship is designed to empower youth under 21, providing crucial support to those embarking on their higher education journey. At the time of application, candidates must have applied and been accepted into a relevant business program—this includes diverse fields such as Business Administration, Accounting, Agribusiness, Sales, and Marketing, among others. The Chamber aims to invest in individuals who demonstrate commitment to their studies and potential for future success in the business sector.

To ensure that the scholarship has a meaningful impact, applicants must have successfully completed their first term at their chosen post-secondary institution and be enrolled for the subsequent term. This requirement emphasizes the importance of already demonstrating academic commitment and progress before receiving financial support. The scholarship payment will be made directly to the institution—ensuring that funds are applied toward tuition and program costs—rather than disbursing cash directly to the recipients.

Eligibility for the scholarship also extends to those residing in or attending school in the Riverdale Municipality. The Chamber recognizes the importance of community involvement and is open to considering exceptions for rural applicants who are actively engaged in local initiatives. This thoughtful approach reflects the Chamber’s aim to foster a sense of community and encourage involvement among young residents.

Importantly, applicants must not have received this scholarship before, ensuring that this opportunity reach-

es a diverse range of youth who may not have had similar support in the past. The Rivers and District Chamber of Commerce believes in creating lasting impacts through education and is committed to aiding those who have not yet had an opportunity to benefit from this initiative.

The Chamber is proud to announce Layton Veitch as the recipient of the 2025 scholarship. Layton is currently enrolled in the Agribusiness program at Assiniboine College. His dedication to his studies, coupled with a passion for the agricultural sector, exemplifies the qualities the Chamber seeks in scholarship recipients. The Chamber congratulates Layton and wishes him every success in his educational pursuits, looking forward to celebrating his future achievements.

In conclusion, the Rivers and District Chamber of Commerce scholarship represents an investment in the future of the local economy. By supporting young individuals pursuing business education, the Chamber not only fosters personal growth but also contributes to the overall vitality of the community. As this program continues, it offers hope and encouragement to local youth, inviting them to embrace opportunities that will shape their destinies and, in turn, the future of our community.

Riverdale Fire Department new name new look

As of Oct 7 Rivers Town Council passed a resolution to rename Rivers/Daly to Riverdale Fire department. The decision was made with the purchase of the new pumper. Logo was done up by Acres where the pumper was built. All Riverdale Fire Department vehicles will be getting the new logo at no cost for the logo from Acres.

Natalie Rampton receives scholarship from Oak Lake Legion

The Oak Lake Royal Canadian Legion Branch #79 have awarded their first ever post-secondary scholarship to a local girl, Natalie Rampton of the Oak Lake/ Kenton area. Her father is Cameron Rampton and her grandparents are Stan and Pat Rampton, all local farmers. Natalie is in her second year at Midland University in Nebraska. She is pursuing a degree in Mathematics/ Accounting. She plays goal for the Midland Warriors Ladies Hockey team. The Legion members are proud to support her in her academic and personal goals. The cheque is presented to Natalie Rampton by branch president, Cameron Moir.

Hashbrown Casserole

This hashbrown casserole is absolutely the best hash brown dish I’ve ever had. It’s my friend’s grandma’s recipe. Kentucky grandmas sure know how to cook!

Ingredients

• 1 (2 pound) package frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed

• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup

• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

• 1 (8 ounce) container sour cream

• 1 cup butter, melted, divided

• 1/2 cup chopped onion

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 cup crushed cornflakes

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Mix hash browns, Cheddar cheese, condensed soup, sour cream, ½ of the melted butter, onion, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Transfer mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish.

3. Sprinkle cornflakes on top, then drizzle with remaining melted butter.

4. Bake in the preheated oven until casserole is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown, 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes

5. Serve and enjoy!

Locally made crossword

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to subsection 318(1) of The Municipal Act, that the Council of Riverdale Municipality has scheduled a public hearing in the Council Chamber, at Riverdale Municipal office in Rivers, Manitoba on the 3rd day of February, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. to present the following special service proposal:

The intent of this Special Service proposal is to continue with a special tax for provision of fire protection services, to all benefiting property owners, including otherwise exempt and railway properties, in Riverdale Municipality.

The total cost of Fire Protection Services for Riverdale Municipality is $115,758.53

The Special Service Area to be levied under this proposal will be all taxable, grant-in-lieu and otherwise exempt properties in Riverdale Municipality, including Classification 52, Railway companies at the following rates:

Property classified as 30T Farmland only $13.92

All other Classes including 10, 20, 40, 50, 60 (this includes property with dual classifications) $87.92

The Special Service Tax will raise $115,758.53. In addition any unforeseen costs or un-anticipated expenditures will be funded by the Municipality’s Operations Budget and included in the general municipal levy.

The aforementioned Special Service Tax will be set out in the Financial Plan for the years 2026 to 2028 inclusive.

A written objection may be filed with the Chief Administrative Officer at the Riverdale municipal office, 670 – 2nd Ave, prior to the commencement of the hearing. At the hearing, Council will hear any potential taxpayer who wishes to make a presentation, ask questions or register an objection to the special service proposal.

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

Copies of the special service proposal are available for review and may be examined by any person during regular office hours of the Riverdale Municipal Office at 670 – 2nd Avenue, Rivers, Manitoba.

DATED AT RIVERDALE MUNICIPALITY this 9th day of January 2026.

Perspectives

By Chad Carpenter

Let us picture your community

This week I am writing about an important item for our towns and villages, all the communities that make up the coverage area of our three newspapers, the Rivers Banner, the Virden Empire-Advance and the Neepawa Banner & Press. If you only read a few of this week’s lines, please pass on this information to all your friends, family members, co-workers and your customers. Combined, the three papers are distributed to over 50 towns and villages, free of charge. To do a better job of coverage of all 50 communities, we need your help. In days gone by, newspapers would be able to have a reporter or photographer at many events within the area. But those 50 communities involves a driving distance well over 120 miles from one end to the other. We can’t be everywhere, it’s impossible, so here’s what I’m asking. When you are at events, hockey games or tournaments for an example, please send us a picture or ask someone who is taking pictures to send us a photo. Here’s the emails to use:

kwaddell@neepawabanner.com

riversbanner@outlook.com

virdenempireadvance@outlook.com

We would especially like to have photos of youth and community activities, such as winners of hockey tournaments or action shots. If you are in charge of minor hockey in your community, we would really like to hear from you with pictures from games or tournaments and team pics. We really like team pictures of all sports. Bonspiel winners are good too. Please include the

Ken Waddell Right in the Centre

names of those in the picture. Photography has come a long way during our years of the newspaper business. We used to take pictures with a film camera, develop them in a dark room or drive them to a photo developer.

There used to be developers in several towns. For black and white pictures, we had our own dark room.

That all changed over 25 years ago when we bought our first digital camera. That was a huge breakthrough and I still have that first camera. It was a dandy. Then everybody got digital cameras and then cell phones became pretty good cameras. Nearly everybody has a cell phone today and they do take pretty good pictures.

That said, there are some suggestions. Try to square the photo up and don’t cut off peoples heads, shoot the picture with the sun or a main source of light behind you. A bright sunny window in the background can really mess up a pretty good photo. A big enemy of a good photos are hats, especially ball caps and cowboy hats. A lot of good looking faces have been hidden in the shadows of a favourite cap or hat.

Take a few shots as it’s inevitable that someone in the picture will have their eyes closed.

We want to show off as much as we can about what is happening in

your community and you can help very directly by sending us photos at the above emails.

At the risk of repeating myself, we simply can’t be in all our towns and villages, but we do want to give as much coverage as we can. My wife and I have been at this business off and on now for nearly 60 years, full time for almost 37 years. We want to do as much as we can to keep your papers full of news and photos and you can help us and our staff to keep your local paper strong.

Our circulation numbers are very good at over 12,000 for the three papers combined and over 4,000 on-line.

And the best news, it’s free, BUT we do need ads to keep things going. Advertising is our main source of income, and we do appreciate our customers very much.

In a world of turmoil, and with so much false information flying around, the local paper is the best source of reliable and accountable news about what matters the most to us all.

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

‘Just a little more time…’

Gabrielle Roy captured many of my thoughts and musings in “The Road Past Altamont”. The first section revealed a young girl’s relationship with her grandmother, addressing aging, loss of abilities, and yes, death. We examine impressions, emotions and human relationships in every section of the book. In the second portion, the young girl forges a relationship with an elderly man in the neighbourhood. It would be fair to say they become kindred spirits, understanding each other, having time for each other, as the world at large spins on. She is eight, often unwell and rather frail; he is eighty four, independent and rather frail. During a prairie heat wave they slip away for a day at the shore of Lake Winnipeg, taking time to share thoughts and sip deep of the cup of communing - with each other, the vast changing lake and the ever restless clouded sky.

Sitting together, the old man in a black suit, and the young girl in her Sunday dress with ribbons in her hair, they draw the stares of the swirling crowds. They are oblivious to all but the present. The shared thoughts go deeper. They speak of aging and death. “And, he continued, it’s sad to die young. Because one hasn’t had time to learn and love enough….but when one is old, it’s natural.” The phrase, ‘learned enough …loved enough’ catches the attention of the young aspiring writer. “Ah! Because you have learned and loved enough on this side?” After a pause the wise one replies “ Learned enough…loved enough….I don’t know. Perhaps one has never learned and loved enough. I would like just a little more time. I suppose one would always like just a little more time.”

Those words echoed through my being. I, who am thankfully well in body, mind and spirit, desire a lot more time. I can’t imagine that I have learned and loved enough! The lass dreams of travel. The elder recalls his travels. I am caught betwixt, I dream and I recall.

The dreaming and recalling does not apply solely to travel. All aspects of life and living are encompassed in this tension. I have learned much from life; hard lessons, scaring lessons, sacred lessons, life changing lessons and so many lessons of loving. Love for self has been the most challenging lesson for me. I find it easy to love others, and I find it essential for me to love the Creator and Sustainer of all life, of my life. This call to love myself is threatened by every memory of past folly - and there are many! It is eroded by my perceived list of failures and ‘not enoughs’. My perception of personal value is influenced by my early years - where hard work, good grades, practical achievements were the benchmark for personal value. That’s my perception. I was not a stellar scholar, a natural beauty or a gifted artist, but, by golly, I could work hard… I would like a little more time. There are books I wish to read, places I wish to visit, skills I wish to develop. And, ah, no and…There are people to love. Generations. Past. Present. Future.

Escaped SK prisoner has Brandon connections: Do not approach. Public to report any sightings

Yorkton RCMP asks public to report sightings of Robert Racine

By Michael Blume RCMP Media

On January 14, 2026, at approximately 11:40 a.m., Yorkton RCMP received a report of an escaped prisoner.

Investigation determined the prisoner, who is serving a sentence at the White Spruce Training Centre, was last seen on Ball Road in Yorkton around 11:35 a.m. on January 14.

Since receiving the report, Yorkton RCMP have been searching for the prisoner, checking places he is known to frequent and following up on information received.

As a result of continued investigation, 57-year-old Robert Racine is now charged with one count, being unlawfully at large, Section 145(1), Criminal Code (Information #90568550).

Officers continue searching for him and ask the public to report all sightings and information on his whereabouts.

Robert Racine is described as approximately 6’ tall and 200 lbs.

He has blue eyes.

He has connections to the Regina and Brandon, MB area but his current whereabouts are unknown.

If you see Robert Racine, do not approach him. Call your local police of jurisdiction.

Online sellers beware

Urgent

PayPal email turns out to be phishing scam

By Michael Blume RCMP Media

A phishing scam targeting users of online marketplace sites has been circulating locally, prompting warnings from cyber-security experts and consumer protection bodies.

The scam begins with what appears to be a legitimate email claiming to be from PayPal, stating that a payment is “intact” and urging the recipient to complete a transaction “as soon as possible” due to supposed “new policies” and “Seller Protection guidelines.” Such language — vague policy references and urgency — are common tactics used by fraudsters to pressure victims into acting without verifying details.

Recipients are then instructed to send a “Pick Up Fee” of $100 CAD via Interac e-Transfer to a named “Transport Agent,” with promises that a PayPal “confirmation email” will follow showing a cred-

it of $220 CAD once the fee is paid. Messages often include personal-sounding backstories — such as claims of recovery from surgery — to build sympathy and trust. Cyber-fraud experts warn these are classic red flags of phishing scams designed to steal money or banking credentials.

Such scams exploit online classified and marketplace platforms, where buyers and sellers may not meet in person and are more likely to rely on digital communications and payments. Scammers can send fake payment notifications or direct victims to phishing sites that harvest login information, leading to financial loss.

Consumers are urged to remain cautious when engaging in online transactions. Never click on links in unsolicited messages, especially those that ask for banking details, passwords, or require transfers before verifying the legitimacy of a buyer or seller.

Brandon RCMP looking for missing teen

By Michelle Lissel RCMP Media Relations

On Jan. 14, 2026, shortly before 10:15 a.m., Brandon RCMP received a report of a missing 13-year-old female.

Sydnee Pratt-Clearsky was last seen at a residence in Rivers, Man. on 3 a.m. that day. She has not been seen since that time and RCMP are concerned for her safety.

Pratt-Clearsky is approximately 5’6”, about 130 pounds, with red hair and brown eyes. She may have been wearing white pants and dark clothing when she left the home.

If you or anyone you know have information on her whereabouts, please call Brandon RCMP at 204-726-7522, Crime Stoppers anony -

mously at 1-800-222-8477, or secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Legitimate services such as PayPal will not ask for personal information via email or text message, and will direct users to log in only through official apps or websites.

If you suspect a message is fraudulent:

Do not reply to the message or contact any phone numbers provided.

Log in directly through the official PayPal (or other service) website to verify account activity.

Forward suspicious emails to dedicated fraud reporting addresses (e.g., phishing@paypal.com for PayPal scams).

Report the incident to local law enforcement and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Manitoba RCMP and consumer protection agencies recommend vigilance when shopping or selling online, particularly on marketplace and classified platforms, to avoid falling victim to increasingly sophisticated digital scams.

Gun owners have until March 31 to express interest in gun compensation

By The Canadian Press

Submitted by RCMP Media

OTTAWA – The period for gun owners to declare interest in a federal program offering compensation for turning in or permanently deactivating their guns begins today.

Since May 2020, Ottawa has outlawed about 2,500 types of guns, including the AR-15, on the basis they belong only on the battlefield.

Public Safety Canada says firearm licence holders will be notified of the declaration period, which lasts through to March 31, and how they can take part

In the spring, owners whose declarations are approved will be invited to finalize their claims and schedule appointments to turn in their guns to the RCMP, local police or a mobile collection unit.

The government says compensation will be determined primarily on a first-come, first-served basis.

Firearm rights advocates and the federal Conservatives have denounced the program as a poor use of taxpayer dollars that targets law-abiding gun owners.

Prohibited firearms and devices must be disposed of — or permanently deactivated — by the end of an amnesty period on Oct. 30.

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said over the weekend that the deadlines are real and should be heeded.

The government says anyone found in possession of a banned firearm or device after the amnesty period could face criminal prosecution.

Owners of banned guns who do not take part in the program can also comply with the law by deactivating their firearms at their own expense, turning them in to local police for no compensation, or exporting them if they hold an export permit.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 19, 2026.

An AR-15 restricted gun.

Email sent to all PAL card holders

By RCMP Cdn Firearms Program

Notice to individual firearms owners assault-style firearms compensation program (ASFCP)

The Canadian Firearms Program facilitated the delivery of this notification on behalf of Public Safety Canada and has not shared or disclosed any licence holder names, addresses or personal information with Public Safety Canada. Please ensure that your email is upto-date with the Canadian Firearms Program to receive direct program updates. Alternatively, updates will be available at: https://www. canada.ca/en/public-safety-canada/campaigns/firearms-buyback.html

This notice is being sent to all holders of a valid Possession and Acquisition License (PAL).

As part of various actions and programs to tackle gun violence in Canadian communities, beginning in May 2020 the Government of Canada deemed prohibited more than 2,500 makes and models of firearms. Should you own one of these prohibited firearms, thank you for safely storing and not using that prohibited firearm.

In prohibiting these particular firearms, such as the AR-15, the Government of Canada also committed to compensate eligible businesses and PAL holders who are impacted.

The purpose of this notice is to provide you with the opportunity to be compensated should you own one or more of these prohibited firearms.

Over 12,000 of these prohibited firearms were successfully collected from businesses from across Canada. More than $22 million in compensation has been provided to these businesses.

for the ASSAULT-STYLE FIREARMS COMPENSATION PROGRAM

Compensation will be determined primarily on a first come first served basis, based on the date your declaration is submitted and the availability of Program funds at that time. To increase your likelihood of receiving compensation, pending eligibility, you are encouraged to submit your declaration as early as possible. Submitting a declaration does not guarantee you will receive compensation.

To determine if you own a prohibited firearm, please search the list of 2,500 makes and models. The list is available at: https://www. canada.ca/en/public-safety-canada/campaigns/firearms-buyback.html

If you do not own one of these prohibited firearms, you do not need to do anything more.

If you do own one of these prohibited firearms, and you wish to participate in the ASFCP and apply for compensation, you must first declare the prohibited firearm(s) in your possession.

You may do so during the nation-wide declaration period, which begins on January 19th, 2026, and ends on March 31st, 2026. After March 31st, 2026, declaration requests will no longer be processed.

To complete the declaration or for more information about the ASFCP, please visit: https://www. canada.ca/en/public-safety-canada/campaigns/firearms-buyback.html

It is important to note that an amnesty has been in place since 2020. This amnesty ensures every impacted PAL holder can hold onto the prohibited firearms until the end of the amnesty.

This amnesty is scheduled to end on October 30th, 2026.

All prohibited firearms and devices must be disposed of or permanently deactivated prior to that date. If you remain in possession of an impacted firearm following this date, you will be noncompliant with legislation.

Thank you for your continued commitment to safe firearms practices and compliance with all firearms rules and regulations.

Additional Information

To complete the declaration or for more information about the ASFCP, please visit: https://www. canada.ca/en/public-safety-canada/campaigns/firearms-buyback.html

This webpage also contains information on: the list of eligible Assault-Style Firearms (ASFs) and their compensation amounts; other options for compliance with the prohibitions; and the Amnesty Orders. Firearms owners in Saskatchewan or Alberta should consult their provincial authorities for any additional laws or regulations that may impact participation in the ASFCP. Should you require further assistance, or a paper declaration to apply by mail, or if you would like to receive information in Indigenous languages (Mohawk, Anishinaabe (Ojibwe), Inuktut (South Baffin), Cree, Algonquin, Dene, or Mi’kmaq), please contact the ASFCP Contact Centre at 1-833-759-4551.

Reminder: while the compensation program is voluntary, compliance with the law is not. Impacted firearms and devices must be disposed of, or deactivated by the end of the amnesty period on October 30th, 2026.

If you do not wish to return your firearm under the Program, alternative options are available to you before the amnesty period expires on October 30th, 2026:

Having the firearm deactivated at your own expense by a licensed business authorized to perform deactivations. Procedures for this option are available at: https://www.canada.ca/ en/public-safety-canada/ campaigns/firearms-buyback.html

•Arranging with your local police to hand-in your firearm – there will be no compensation provided.

Art Exhibition at Mid-West Arts

put

By Celia Nolan Rivers Banner

Saturday January 17 was a very joyful and interesting afternoon at the Mid-West Arts Centre in Hamiota.

The Sari-Saring Kwenton (translated means Different Stories) Exhibition

opened. It features the Filipino Art from two different art clubs.

The Ka-Manlilikha and the Artista de Colores. All of the artists are Filipino and come from the Philippines and the United States. The purpose of the showcase is to exhibit and share different stories told

thru a rich blend of styles, mediums and cultural influences.

The organizer of this beautiful exhibition is Veronica Tabernilla Suministrado and she stated that for her, this art is a way of bridging cultures and integrate art and culture in Hamiota.

Delicious food was prepared by friends of the Art Centre and entertainment by father and daughter Edson and Ella Andan, Jazmine Claire Rivera and of course the talented Elaine Rawlings.

The exhibit is open till January thirty first, come and admire this amazing art which is available for sale. Mid-West Arts would also like to extend an invitation to join us for the Valentine’s Day Tea as well, Saturday February fourteenth. Bring Your Sweetheart!

Emergencies Act Challenge: government did not meet thresholds

By Anne Davison Rivers Banner

The Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) reports that the Federal Court of Appeal has delivered a historic victory for the rule of law by ruling in favour of their arguments in the Emergencies Act case.

The Emergencies Act allows the federal government to enact wide-reaching orders without going through the ordinary democratic process— but only once stringent legal thresholds are met.

The Federal Court of Appeal confirmed last Friday, Jan. 16, that the federal government did not meet these thresholds when it invoked the Emergencies Act in February 2022.

It was Feb. 14, 2022 when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invoked the Emergencies Act after a trucker’s ‘freedom convoy’ where thousands demonstrated at Parliament Hill, in Ottawa and blocked border points elsewhere across Canada.

(The convoy arose when a trucker vaccine mandate (ArriveCAN) was put into effect, requiring truckers be vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to cross the US-Canada border. The protest lasts about18 days demanding vaccine mandates be lifted.)

Catharine Tunney for CBC News posted on Feb 17, 2023, “By invoking the act, the federal government gave law

enforcement extraordinary powers to remove and arrest protesters — and gave itself the power to freeze the finances of those connected to the protests. The temporary emergency powers also gave authorities the ability to commandeer tow trucks to remove protesters’ vehicles from the streets of the capital.”

The Canadian Civil Liberties Association took the government to court on the basis that there was insufficient justification for an Emergency Act to be enacted across Canada.

For The Canadian Press, Jim Bronskill, Feb 04, 2025 said: “In his January 2024 ruling, Federal Court Justice Richard Mosley said he revisited the events with the benefit of a more extensive record of the facts and the law than the government had when it proclaimed a public order emergency.

“Lawyer Michael Feder, representing the government, told the Federal Court of Appeal on Tuesday it was unfair of the judge to fault federal decision-making using “20/20 hindsight.””

The government appealed the 2024 ruling, seeking to uphold Trudeau’s Emergency Act. The appeal was struck down.

CBC coverage last week, Jan. 16, 2026, by Katherine Tunney quotes three judges on the appeal court: “As disturbing and disruptive the blockades and the convoy protests in Ottawa could be, they fell well short of a threat to national security.”

Letter to the editor

RE: Rapid City water level

Hello, fine citizens of Rapid City and the surrounding area.

I’m sure many of you may recall that I raised concerns a few years ago about the water level in the reservoir and the lack of control over the flow through the fish ladder. That resulted in promises from the engineering department that they would build a control gate for the ladder. A temporary gate was installed for a short time, but after it was removed, the level has been controlled by locals installing boards in front of the ladder in an attempt to keep the water level regulated.

The promised permanent gate was never built, and I’m certain it won’t be built unless the community raises its concerns and addresses the situation once again. There is currently no water going over the dam, resulting in 100% of the water going through the fish ladder. This has created a large opening in the ice at the mouth of the fish ladder. The snowmobile trail usually passes in close vicinity to the fish ladder but has been moved to steer clear of the opening. This has created an extreme safety hazard for anyone — or anything — that gets close to the ladder.

I have spoken to the Rapid City and area Wildlife Association, and they have confirmed that they would be happy to fund the cost of a new gate for the fish ladder. I have also spoken to a local welding company that has experience manufacturing such a control gate. All we need from the community is support and some signatures to get this approved.

Rapid City deserves to have its fish ladder restored to its original state and our water level kept consistent for residents to enjoy and wildlife to thrive.

There will be signature sheets at both the store and the Queens.

In their report the CCLA noted that the law defines a national emergency as a situation that “cannot be effectively dealt with under any other law of Canada.” Further, a public order emergency can only be invoked when there is “a threat to the security of Canada” as defined by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service Act.

“While the extraordinary powers granted to the federal government through the Emergencies Act are necessary in extreme circumstances, they also threaten the rule of law and our democracy,” said Howard Sapers, CCLA’s Executive Director. “The courts are responsible for ensuring that the government does not invoke these powers arbitrarily, and CCLA’s mandate is to raise these important issues for judicial scrutiny.”

CCLA notes that their judicial review challenging the federal government’s invocation of the Emergencies Act was not an endorsement of the “Freedom Convoy” protests. They agreed that, given the protracted timelines and the extent of the disruption, the police needed to dismantle the blockades.

However, the CCLA maintained there was no “public order emergency” as contemplated under the Act, and certainly not one that extended across the entirety of Canada. Existing laws could have—and should have—been used to address the situation, rather than the Emergencies Act.

Thank you for your support.

Ken Ferguson, Rapid City MB

Manitoba government freezes the price of milk

Manitoba maintains lowest milk prices in Canada to keep cost affordable

Submitted By MB Government

The Manitoba government is freezing the price of milk for 2026, keeping the price of milk affordable in the province for consumers and ensuring producers receive fair compensation, Premier Wab Kinew and Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced today.

“An everyday essential like milk should not cost a lot, especially when we consider how important it is to kids’ healthy development. We’re freezing the retail price of

milk for 2026, so it stays within reach for families looking to make healthy choices,” said Kinew. “The previous government let the price of milk jump by 25 cents, but we’re taking action to keep Manitoba’s milk prices the lowest in Canada. It is good news for parents who find themselves restocking the fridge every week.”

The Farm Products Marketing Council has the legal authority to set regulated milk prices in Manitoba, including the price producers can sell their product, the price of which wholesalers

can distribute the product and the price of which retailers can sell to consumers. Its decisions are guided by a legislated responsibility to balance producer sustainability with consumer protection.

“Manitoba’s dairy producers are the backbone of our local food system. They deliver high quality, safe milk every day, support good jobs in rural communities, and uphold some of the strongest animal care and sustainability standards in the country,” said Kostyshyn. “Their commitment to innovation and responsible farming

Manitoba Pork 2026 forecast

By Cam Dahl, GM Manitoba Pork

How did Canadian agriculture fare in 2025? What trends will continue from 2025 into 2026 and what does that mean for export dependent farmers?

A year ago, I predicted that 2025 would be filled with

global uncertainty that disrupted markets. I was hoping that this forecast would be proven wrong, but unfortunately it was not. Our neighbour to the south is focused on “America First”. U.S. policies are moving away from supporting free and open trade. Canadian agriculture faced a short period of tariffs

but ultimately was protected by the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). However, we don’t know if this will continue until the end of 2026 as CUSMA is up for review. This is the most important policy file for the90 percent of farmers in Canada that depend on international markets. The agreement will

helps keep milk affordable for families while ensuring a stable, reliable supply across our province. We’re proud to work alongside producers who reflect the best of Manitoba’s agricultural tradition and its future.”

In 2022, the regulated price increased by a total of 25 cents, implemented through two separate orders from the government of Manitoba. This adjustment was larger than the combined increases over the previous decade. Last year, after reviewing updated cost data and market conditions, either be extended to 2032, put into a cycle of annual reviews, or terminated. The outcome of the review will determine the fiscal sustainability of many farms across Canada, including Manitoba.

Tariffs are a threat, but they are not the only protectionist measures faced by farmers and food processors. The revival of country-of-origin labelling in the U.S. and individual state legislation that is fragmenting the North American market (e.g., Proposition 12 in California) are just two other examples of protectionist policies threatening Canadian agriculture and food exports, and the U.S. is not alone. China has targeted agriculture commodities in retaliation for Canadian tariffs on electric vehicles. The European Union continues to block Canadian agricultural and food exports using non-tariff trade barriers.

Uncertainty in world trade is costly for both Manitoba farmers and processors. Unfortunately, this uncertainty will remain throughout 2026 and will likely intensify during the review of CUSMA. Securing the North American market, offsetting the cost of trade uncertainty, and trade diversification need to be at the top of the policy list for all governments in 2026. Food and agriculture need to be top of mind at every Canadian negotiating table in 2026. Canadian governments and negotiators need to be continuously reminded that food and beverage processing is the largest manufacturing sector in Canada with sales worth about $175 billion. The sector accounts for over 20 percent of total manufacturing sales. Meat products com-

the council reduced the regulated price by one cent. This decrease demonstrates the council’s commitment to ongoing oversight and its mandate to ensure prices remain fair, transparent and responsive to changing economic pressures.

“Our team of registered dietitians work with schools to ensure children and youth have access to a wide variety of nutritious food everyday,” said Clara Birnie, community dietitian and grants manager, Child Nutrition Council. “There are many barriers to accessing

prise the largest proportion of the food manufacturing sector in both Manitoba and Canada. If agriculture and food are left behind in trade discussions, livelihoods in every region of Manitoba will be significantly impacted.

Manitoba hog farmers continue to be world leaders in disease prevention and management. The entire sector has recognized the need to work together to effectively protect the health of animals under our care. Sometimes this means that parts of the value chain take actions that are not in their short-term fiscal interest but will deliver long-term benefits to the entire sector. This level of collaboration is not often found in other countries or regions. Manitoba’s pork sector should be congratulated for this accomplishment.

Working with the entire value chain to prevent and mitigate disease impacts is a key priority for Manitoba hog farmers in 2026. This includes preventing diseases like Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome and Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus where possible and limiting their spread when it is not. We are also working with processors, veterinarians, transport companies, and Manitoba’s Office of the Chief Veterinarian to keep foreign animal diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease and African Swine Fever out of Manitoba. Again, collaboration is the key factor in developing effective disease prevention and response plans.

On the economic front, 2025 was a profitable year across the hog sector. Profitability is being driven by strong pork demand

nutritious foods and cost is one of them. These types of initiatives, which regulate the price of staple foods, are a positive step towards helping Manitobans meet their nutritional needs.” Manitobans will continue to benefit from the province’s regulated pricing model, which ensures stability and affordability for a staple product found in households across the province. The Manitoba government is currently in the process of studying ways to further reduce grocery costs for families.

around the world, relatively affordable pork prices for consumers, especially when compared to beef, disease pressures in other pork producing regions, and reasonable feed costs. I expect profitable conditions to continue into 2026, at least for the first half of the year. Profitability in the second half of 2026 will depend in large part on the world trade situation.

Given current profitability, 2026 should be a year of renewal and growth for Manitoba’s hog sector, but investing in the future is difficult when markets and trade patterns remain uncertain. Financing barns with a 25-year lifespan becomes more costly and difficult with growing uncertainty. Manitoba’s Economic Development Plan recognizes the impact of international uncertainty on the province’s investment climate and recognizes the need to reduce our reliance on trade with the U.S. a priority for 2026 will be to develop ways to partner with government and industry to offset some of these financial risks and costs to facilitate industry renewal.

In some ways, 2026 will likely look a lot like 2025. We will continue to see significant trade and market uncertainty, with the potential to see this uncertainty increase going into the CUSMA review. Positive profitability should continue, based on strong demand, disease pressure in other jurisdictions, and manageable feed costs. The question at the end of 2026 will be whether the potential negatives coming from the political environment outweighed the natural potential positives of the market.

FOR SALE BY TENDER

Sealed, written tenders to purchase the property situate in the RM of Elton and described below will be received by: MEIGHEN HADDAD LLP 110-11th Street

Brandon MB R7A 4J4

Attention: STACY A. SENKBEIL sasenkbeil@mhlaw.ca

PARCEL ONE: NE 1/4 35-12-19 WPM EXC FIRSTLY: RLY PLAN 146 BLTO SECONDLY: AN UNDIVIDED 1/2 INTEREST IN ALL MINES AND MINERALS OTHER THAN COAL AS SET FORTH IN TRANSFER 94946

PARCEL TWO: ALL THAT PORTION OF NE 1/4 35-12-19 WPM TAKEN FOR RLY PLAN 146 BLTO EXC ALL MINES AND MINERALS AS SET FORTH IN DEED 90-4805

Exclusion: Yardsite of approximately 10.5 acres currently being subdivided. Approximately 149.5 acres will remain for sale.

All acreages are based on Manitoba Provincial Assessment Reports. CONDITIONS OF TENDER

1. Interested parties must rely on their own inspection and knowledge of the property and not on the above or any other particulars or representations made by or on behalf of the Estate of GREGORY ALLAN NYKORAK.

2. Tenders must be received on or before 5PM on Friday, January 30th, 2026.

3. Each tender must include:

a. Total purchase price;

b. Confirmation that the buyer is prepared to close as of March 3rd, 2026 or later date pending the seller’s subdivision completion;

c. Confirmation the buyer shall be responsible for the property taxes for 2026; and

d. Be accompanied by a $5,000.00 deposit cheque payable to Meighen Haddad LLP. Deposits accompanying unacceptable bids will be refunded.

4. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE

1. The successful bidder will be required to execute an agreement setting out the terms and conditions of sale. The possession date shall be March 3, 2026, or such later date as may be required by the Seller to accommodate completion of the subdivision process. The Buyer shall have access to the Property as of March 3, 2026, as a tenant, until such time as title can be conveyed. Until possession, the balance of the accepted tender must be paid of March 3, 2026 unless delayed by the Seller pending subdivision completion, or satisfactory evidence provided that funds will be available under conditions acceptable to the Vendor.

2. Failure to pay the balance within the specified time may result in forfeiture of the deposit as liquidated damages (not as a penalty).

3. Possession will not be granted until full payment arrangements are confirmed.

For further information or an appointment to view, contact Stacy Senkbeil at sasenkbeil@mhlaw. ca or 204-727-8461

Manitoba Community Newspaper Association Province Wide Classifieds

NOTICES

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 RE-

LEASES - Have a newsworthy item to announce?

An exciting change in oper-

ations? Though we cannot guarantee publication, MCNA will get the information into the right hands for ONLY $35.00 + GST/HST. Call MCNA (204) 947-1691 for more information. See www.mcna.com under the “Types of Advertising” tab for more details.

PLAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS SUCCESS IN 2026! Let us help you book your blanket classified ads across Manitoba. NOW BOOKING for 2026! Advertise! You 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

LANDS FOR RENT / AGRICULTURAL LANDS FOR RENT AGRICULTURAL CROWN LANDS are presently available for rent for cropping. These lands will be available for rent through an online auction. These lands are situated in the Rural Municipalities (RM) s of: DALLAS/RED ROSE – NORTHERN AFFAIRS ACT, GILBERT PLAINS, KELSEY, MOUNTAIN & SPRINGFIELD. A complete listing of Agricultural

Facility Foreman

This is a permanent full-time position with attractive benefits in Hamiota, Manitoba.

The Hamiota & District Sports Complex along with the Hamiota Municipal Parks Board are searching for an individual to assume the position of Facility Foreman. Hamiota and surrounding area has a community of 1300 people located onehour northwest of Brandon on Highway 21. It is in the middle of everything good in Westman.

The Facility Foreman reports directly to the Chief Administrative Officer of Hamiota Municipality. The position is responsible for the management and operation of the Hamiota and District Sports Complex, which is a wintertime hockey and curling arena, as well as the Hamiota Municipal Park, which has the main ball diamonds, agricultural grounds, miniature golf and the Hamiota Aquatic Centre, the community’s outdoor swimming pool. Staffing and day to day operations of the Aquatic Centre is the responsibility of the Recreation Director.

The successful candidate will be a self-motivated manager with the ability to work unsupervised and allocate and direct staff. The position requires the Facility Foreman to work evening and weekend shifts year-round. Ice making and grounds maintenance experience is considered an asset however, training is available for suitable candidates.

To apply, submit your salary expectations along with a resume and cover letter clearly marked “Facility Foreman” to;

Facility Foreman Hiring Committee Box 100, 75 Maple Avenue Hamiota Manitoba R0M 0T0 E-mail: info@hamiota.com

A review of applications will begin Monday, February 2, 2026

For further information and a detailed job description please phone or text (204) 764-0828 or by email info@hamiota.com

Thank-you to all applicants for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Crown Lands available for rent can be found online at: https://www.manitoba.ca/ central/Assets/resb/leases_ and_permits/lpproperties. html. The online auction will take place from February 23 – February 27, 2026, hosted by Garton’s Auction Service: https://gartonsauction.com. For additional information, please contact your nearest Manitoba Agriculture (MA) Agricultural Crown Lands District Office (or via email at agcrownlands@gov.mb.ca) or call Real Estate Services Branch at 1-866-210-9589. A listing of MA Agricultural Crown Lands District Offices can be found online at: https://www.gov.mb.ca/ agriculture/land-management/crown-land/agricultural-crown-lands-district-offices.html

Ref Memories Jets fall to Bombers, look to rebound in busy week

REF TO WRITER

GERRY NOLAN

I just happened to see Randy Kalynuk the other day and we were reminiscing about some games we were involved in as officials and “how hot it was in the kitchen”. We were referring to North Central Hockey League games between Roblin and Russell. Those were tough, tough games. I was involved in several of those games when you only had one referee and was also involved in several games as a linesmen.

The rivalry between the two teams was huge and the rinks were full of spectators. I mean 600 to 800 people. It was loud and boisterous. There was lots of tension as the games were usually close, but man these teams hated each other.

One night I remember in particular in Russell, I started calling penalties early and often. I tried to let them play but the teams were having none of that.

The game I refer to I called 47 minor penalties and probably should have called 47 more,

there were that many. There were also misconducts and several fights and game misconducts. Both teams were guilty of the roughing and stick infractions.

I often wondered what if I had just let them play and whoever survives, so be it. I just could not do that, someone would have been seriously injured for sure.

I was in Roblin with Randy Kalynuk and Bill Hayward. Randy was the head referee and he encountered the same type of game, he will confirm what I am sharing in this story.

After the game, you are exhausted, and you replay the game. We had about a 2-hour trip home from Roblin and I had an hour and half trip home from Russell. This gave a lot of time replaying the game and even when you got home it was hard to settle in to sleep. I always believed if a referee had to call more than 15 to 20 penalties in the game, that was on the two teams.

Here I was calling 47 minors plus misconducts and game misconducts.

We were not the only officials to have this happen to us, as others shared their games when things were ugly as well.

As both Randy and I got older it was nice to take your linesmen with you so you could talk about the game. We would talk about calls that we made or missed and what we could do differently, be it positioning or whatever.

Randy Kalynuk was one of the best officials I ever worked with. He was honest, positive and always there for me as we dissected games together.

As I write this story I feel like I am right back there on those nights. I am feeling a little tense already. Time to end this story for now!

By Robin Wark Rivers Banner

The Rivers Jets fell 6-1 to the Minnedosa Bombers in a match of two of the Tiger Hills Hockey League’s top five teams.

The Jan. 17 setback was just the Jets’ third loss of the season. As of Jan. 18, Killarney led the THHL with a perfect 14-0-0-0 record and 28 points. With 24 points, Hartney (122-0-0) was second in the standings. The Bombers (11-3-0-0), Virden Oil Kings (11-4-0-0), and Jets (11-3-0-0) rounded out the top five - all with 22 points.

The Jets are looking to pick up some points in a busy week that will see them playing three

games. On Jan. 20, they were in Boissevain after the Banner deadline.

On Jan. 23, they host the Melita Bisons. The Jets are in Sandy Bay on Jan. 25. After this busy period, the Rivers squad’s last two regular season tilts are on Jan. 30 in MacGregor and Feb. 7 when the Hartney Blues visit.

On the road in Minnedosa, the Jets struck first.

Captain Riley Shamray lit the lamp just 1:28 into the contest. The Bombers scored three goals to hold a 3-1 lead at the first intermission. They added two in the second period to extend their lead to 5-1. In the third period, Minnedosa got one more marker.

In a physical contest,

the Bombers were threefor-six on the power play. The Jets were unable to score on any of their eight man advantage opportunities. Minnedosa scored shorthanded once. Forty-five infractions were called for 204 minutes. The Jets were assessed 79 penalty minutes and the Bombers 125.

Rivers goaltender Riley Lamb defended the net for two periods. He made 21 saves and allowed five goals. Layne Anderson played in the third period. He stopped 14 shots and allowed one goal.

Jayson Argue made 29 saves for Minnedosa. Scoring for the Bombers were Matt Saler (two), Owen Riffel (two), Victor Lamb, and Ricky Kowalick.

Rivers Mens Bonspiel

A well-attended curling bonspiel was hosted locally from January 16 to 18, welcoming 12 teams from Rivers, Oak River, Hamiota, and Kenton for a weekend of competitive and friendly play. The event featured A, B, and C side competitions, with close games throughout the weekend. The A Side champions were the team of Justin Gerrard, Derek Shamray, Tyler Gilchrist, and Ryan Veitch, who defeated the Chris Bridges rink by a score of 8–2. The B Side title was claimed by Jeff White, Scott Beever, Harvey Wood, and Brendan Brown, edging out the Al Macdonald rink 8–7 in a tight final. C Side honours went to Alex Gerrard, Seth White, Andy Gerrard, and spare Ryan Brown, who defeated the Jarred Wood rink 6–5. Supper for the event was generously donated by Swift Supply of Virden and prepared by Shelly Moms along with Oak River Quick Freeze. Organizers extend their thanks to the sponsors, volunteers, and all participating teams for making the bonspiel a success.

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