SMP - Jan. 23, 2026

South Mountain P re s s

NO ONE HOME

DARRELL NESBITT/SOUTH MOUNTAIN PRESS

With the strength of the northwest wind shown by the posted Canada flag, activity around or in a variety of ice shacks on Sandy Lake was nullified on the morning of Friday, Jan. 16. Ice shacks create a little village of their own on area lakes each winter, as fishing enthusiasts hunt for that trophy winner. Ice fishing is an enjoyable way to get people through the winter months, requiring just minimal gear and a little luck

Region hit with relentless winter weather

The Farmers’ Almanac was bang on with its forecast for the 2025/26 winter season, “Chill, Snow, Repeat”

RACHEAL FLINTOFT

South Mountain Press

“I told you so”, if pages could talk, you’d hear the Farmers’ Almanac mumbling this statement. While mainstream weather models hinted at a milder season, the centuries-old publication laid out a stark, three-word warning for the 2025/26 season – “Chill, Snow, Repeat.” If you feel like you have spent more time behind a shovel than a steering wheel since December, you aren’t imagining it. Across the region, locals have undergone an unbelievable stretch of weather that began with a volatile end to 2025 that slammed into a continuation in 2026.

While many residents look for a January thaw to break up the season, the publication warned that any relief would be short-lived. Its forecast specifically stated that for the prairies, “Arctic air is expected to dominate in January and February,” bringing with it “prolonged deep freezes” and “dangerous wind chills.” For those in the region currently staring at six-foot snow drifts and ice-covered highways, that prediction has proven to be an accurate, if unwelcome, spoiler alert. Since the start of December, the region has been hammered by significant accumulation, beginning with a major storm on Dec. 9

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that dumped between 15 to 20 centimeters (cm) of snow locally. Since that first taste of winter, January has already added another 24 cm of new snowfall, pushing our regional totals well above the historical average of 15 cm for this time of year.

Region battered by Alberta Clippers

In just the last few weeks, the region has been battered by a harsh string of Alberta Clippers. These fast-moving systems have dropped visibility to near-zero in exposed rural areas. The blowing snow and icy roads have prompted a wave of school bus cancellations across the region, with Park West and Rolling River school divisions forced to keep their buses parked for the safety of students.

The Almanac specifically told us to prepare for this, noting that even when snowfall totals are low, “blowing snow can make it feel like a full-on blizzard.” That sentiment was felt across the region this week, as wind chills plummeted toward -45°C.

LOOKING AHEAD

AT

FEBRUARY’S STORM DATES

The Farmers’ Almanac uses a secret mathematical and astronomical formula that dates back over 200 years. While modern technology is the standard for shortterm forecasting, the Almanac’s ability to nail the “vibe” of this season continues to baffle skeptics. The publication’s final word for 2026 was that it would be “a winter to remember,” and the upcoming month of February looks to uphold that title.

According to the Almanac’s long-range forecast, the “heart of winter” will bring widespread snowstorms and deep freezes. Residents should mark their calendars for the first week of Febru-

ary, specifically Feb. 1-5, which is predicted to bring flurries alongside bitter cold.

Another period to watch is Feb. 18-21, where more snow showers and chilly conditions are expected to sweep across the prairies.

The snow hasn’t had much of a chance to melt or settle due to the persistent Arctic air, meaning every new gust of wind simply reshapes the existing snowpack into new drifts. For those planning to brave the elements, checking local road conditions and highway closures is essential. Manitoba 511 remains the main way to stay informed, offering realtime updates through their website, mobile app, or by calling 511. As the wind continues to howl across the region, the Almanac stands as a quiet, “I told you so” reminder… this winter is unfolding exactly as the experts predicted. from page 1

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

The Erickson 4-H Club made a pair of significant donations this year. The Club donated 1% of their member total Market Steer Project sales to The Little Valley Jamboree this year, totaling $775. Pictured, two of the club members presented a cheque to Colleen Woychyshyn, Vice President of The Little Valley Jamboree Committee. The club also donated $250 to the Leda Lake Eco Park in Erickson.

SERVING OUR SENIORS

Seniors Resource Coordinator

Kortney Arvisais has a passion for making a difference through quality care

RACHEAL FLINTOFT

South Mountain Press

If you’ve spent any time in the healthcare halls of Minnedosa or Erickson over the last few years, you might already recognize the familiar face of Kortney Arvisais, the new Seniors Resource Coordinator for Erickson, Onanole, and Sandy Lake.

A foundation built on frontline care, Arvisais’ journey to the coordinator’s desk didn’t start in an office but rather on the front lines of direct care itself. Since 2020, she has served as a health care aide, first at the Minnedosa Personal Care Home and later providing home care across Minnedosa and Erickson. Arvisais’ hands-on experience gave her a frontrow seat to the daily lives, challenges, and joys of our local seniors.

As a small-town girl through and through, Arvi-

sais grew up within the region and now lives on a quiet acreage near Minnedosa with her husband and a collection of loving pets. Excited about recently stepping into her vital role as senior services coordinator, Arvisais serves as a dedicated advocate for all seniors across

her jurisdiction. She brings a deep-seeded passion for the well-being of her greater community, providing a lifeline for so many families.

“I love working with seniors and helping them in any way I can,” Arvisais said. “I wanted to try something new and challenge myself, so I applied for this position.”

While Arvisais describes herself as an introvert and a “home body” who loves gardening and tending to her chickens, her passion for her work has a way of bringing Arvisais out of her shell.

“I am usually shy but have been told that I come across as outgoing,” she noted. “I think my love for helping seniors brings out my personality as I love what I’m doing.”

The role of a senior services coordinator is multifaceted, acting as the glue that holds various support systems together for our aging

population. With that, Arvisais emphasized that the primary goal of the centre is to “keep seniors in their home safely for as long as possible.” To achieve this, she manages a wide range of essential resources that vary depending on each individual’s specific needs.

The services under her care provide a comprehensive safety net. The most popular services include Victoria Lifeline, handi-van dispatch, and foot care clinics in both Erickson and Sandy Lake. She also oversees vital supports like light exercise classes, friendly visits, phone calls, and equipment loans. To ensure no one feels isolated, she also plans weekly senior lunches in Erickson and bi-weekly gatherings in Sandy Lake, which she described as a way for seniors to get out and socialize on a regular basis.

A vision for the future…

even as she still settles into her new role, Arvisais is already looking for ways to grow and enhance the programs available to the community. For early in 2026, she is organizing chair yoga classes to keep seniors active both physically and mentally.

Arvisais expressed great excitement about the future, stating, “I think I am most excited about the flexibility that comes with this job. There are so many different things that I would like to bring to the surrounding communities.”

As Arvisais steps into this leadership role, she does so with an open heart and a deep sense of gratitude for the people she serves. She is more than just a coordinator; she is a neighbour who truly cares about the legacy and comfort of our local seniors.

“Thank you for accepting

me into their community with open arms,” Arvisais said. “I have had a lot of fun in my role and will continue to help seniors in any way that I can.”

Through her dedication and hands-on experience, Arvisais’ passion will help communities to remain supportive and vibrant places for everyone to call home. Whether it is through a shared meal at a local luncheon or a simple check-in call, the message is clear… our seniors are in capable, caring hands.

If you or a loved one are in need of support, or if you simply want to learn more about the programs available in Erickson, Onanole, or Sandy Lake, Arvisais is ready to help. Building a stronger community starts with making sure no one ever has to navigate the challenges of aging alone.

Friday, January 23, 2026

Letters to the editor: smpnews@mymts.net

Don’t let a bad golf shot ruin your game

While the cold temperature, snow and gale force wind reads winter in our peace of paradise, there are some lucky ones that are selecting a driver, an iron, and a ball to play a-round of golf at locations where the sun is shining hot and sweat is being wiped off a brow.

Drawing material from a 5”x7” envelope received from Edith Edmundson of Langley, BC, I came across a couple of funnies touching on the sport of golf. To fill out the column, I ventured forth to social media to find this poem and a few quotes.

Gone Golfing

If the round should start without me, because I have passed away; Cherish the swings that we once made, and please continue to play.

For I’ll be watching from a gallery, with a magnificent

in Heaven, ion the grandest course of all; And we’ll go golfing once again, chasing that little white ball.

A Bad Day ofGolf

plies “LOFT”.

The last member gets up and hits a warm burner down the middle and turns and asks the pro, “What causes that? Pro”. The pro replies “LOFT”.

TOWN

Darrell Nesbitt AROUND

view; With friends and family from the past, all cheering with pride for you. May each tricky putt find the hole, your drives fly far and straight; And when you’ve taken your final shot, let’s meet at the Pearly Gates. I’ll have tee time booked

Golf is a game of passion, precision, and – let’s be honest – a whole lot of frustration. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or a weekend warrior, nothing cures a bad slice like a good laugh.

One day the golf pro at the club was playing golf with three members and on the first tee the first member hits a big hook into the woods on the left and turns and asks the pro, “What causes that? Pro”. The pro replies “LOFT”.

The next member gets up and hits a big slice into the water on the right and turn and asks the pro, “What causes that? Pro”. The pro re-

The member gets irate and says, “Look pro, Bob hits a hook and you say LOFT. Bill hits a slice and you say LOFT, and I dribble it down the middle and you say LOFT. What is this LOFT?

The pro says, “LOFT, you know, Lack of Frigging Talent.”

Up and Over

A young man who was also an avid golfer found himself with a few hours to spare one afternoon. He figured if he hurried and played very fast, he could get in nine holes before he had to head home.

Just about to tee off an old gentleman shuffled onto the tee and asked if he couldaccompany the young man as he was golfing alone. Not being able to say no, he allowed the old gent to join him. To his surprise the old man played fairly quickly. He didn’t hit the ball far but plodded along consistently and didn’t waste much time. They reached the ninth fairway, and the young man found himself with a tough shot. There was a large pine tree right in front of his ball, directly between his ball and the green. After several minutes of debating how to hit the shot, the old man finally said, “you know, when I was your age I’d hit the ball right over that tree.”

With that challenge placed before him. The youngster swung hard and hit the ball

right smack into the top of the tree trunk, where it thudded back on the ground not a foot from where it had originally been.

The old man offered one more comment, “Of course, when I was your age that pine tree was only three feet high.

Sense ofHumour

Addicted to a sport that seems designed to humble enthusiasts at every turn, proves that a sense of humour is the most important club in your bag… I have a tip that can take five strokes off anyone’s golf game – it’s called an eraser. –Arnold Palmer If you hit it right, it’s a slice. If you hit it left, it’s a hook. If you hit it straight, it’s a miracle.” – Lee Trevino

Hidden carbon tax costs seven cents at pumps in 2026

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is calling on Prime Minister Mark Carney to scrap the hidden carbon tax embedded in federal fuel regulations that increases the price of gasoline by up to seven cents per litre.

“Carbon taxes make life more expensive, hurt Canada’s economy and don’t work,” said Franco Terraz-

Opinion

zano, CTF Federal Director.

“Ottawa’s hidden carbon tax will cost families hundreds of dollars and blow a multibillion-dollar hole in Canada’s economy.”

The hidden carbon tax is embedded within federal fuel regulations that took effect

on July 1, 2023. The regulations require producers to reduce the carbon content of their fuels. If they can’t meet the requirements, they must purchase credits, increasing costs that are passed onto Canadians purchasing gasoline or diesel. There are no rebates with this carbon tax.

The hidden carbon will cost up to seven cents per li-

tre of gasoline in 2026, according to analysis from the Parliamentary Budget Officer. It will cost up to 17 cents per litre of gasoline when the regulations are fully implemented in 2030.

The hidden carbon tax will cost the average household between $384 and $1,157 in 2030 depending on the province, according to the

PBO. It will cost Canada’s economy up to $9 billion by 2030, according to government records.

The hidden carbon tax is “regressive for households” because “lower income households generally spend a larger share of their income on transportation and other energy-intensive goods and services compared to higher

income households,” according to the PBO. “Carney should make life more affordable and get our economy firing on all cylinders by ending all carbon taxes,” Terrazzano said.

The PBO also said that, “Canada’s own emissions are not large enough to materially impact climate change.”

Ottawa needs to scrap failing gun confiscation program

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is calling on the federal government to scrap its gun confiscation program after announcing the national rollout of the gun confiscation scheme.

“The failed Cape Breton pilot project should have proven to Ottawa it’s time scrap this program,” said Gage Haubrich, CTF Prairie Director. “Ottawa needs to listen to the law enforcement experts who are calling for support to stop illegal guns rather than confiscating guns from licensed gun owners.”

The federal government announced it will start the national gun confiscation program with a declaration period starting on Monday.

The government aimed to confiscate 200 firearms during the Cape Breton pilot project. It only collected 25. The federal government agreed to give at least $149,760 to the Cape Breton Regional Municipality to carry out the confiscation.

Polling conducted by Leger shows that 55 percent of

Opinion

Canadians think that stopping illegal gun smuggling, not a gun confiscation scheme, is the most effective way to reduce gun crime.

Police associations have also publicly stated this scheme won’t make Canadians safer.

“We know that the gun buyback program is going to have, essentially, zero impact on the crime in Toronto,” said Clayton Campbell, the president of the Toronto Police Association.

The union representing RCMP members says Ottawa’s program “diverts extremely important personnel, resources, and funding away from addressing the more immediate and growing threat of criminal use of illegal firearms.”

The government has committed $742 million to carry out its gun ban and confiscation scheme, according to Budget 2025. But the government has not been transparent on these costs to taxpay-

ers.

The Liberal Party initially said the confiscation would cost $200 million in 2019. The Parliamentary Budget Officer said it will cost up to $756 million to compensate owners for their firearms. Other independent experts put the final price tag at about $6 billion.

The governments of Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, the Yukon and Manitoba have all called for Ottawa to scrap the program or have said they will not be participating in it.

“The government needs to focus on the real problem of criminals and illegal guns not going after licensed firearm owners,” said Haubrich. “The federal government needs scrap this program because every dollar wasted on

smuggling.”

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

We welcome your comments on editorials, columns, or any subjects important to you. Only letters that include name,address and a daytime phone number will be considered for publication. Send us your

WINTER REINVIGORATED

Investments in activities and infrastructure in Clear Lake and Minnedosa making the region a true winter destination

DONALD BERGER

South Mountain Press

The untapped winter experience unfolding in Clear Lake is no longer happening in isolation. Just up the road, the community of Minnedosa is deliberately rewriting its own winter story – and together, these communities are revealing a broader shift taking shape across Manitoba.

Clear Lake’s recent investments in winter infrastructure, signature installations, culinary programming, and shoulder-season festivals signal a clear intent: winter is no longer a quiet pause between summers, but a new canvas. The thinking closely mirrors Minnedosa’s – build a critical mass of experiences that encourage visitors to stay longer, spend locally, and return.

Importantly, this isn’t about copying one another. It’s about regional gravity.

When Minnedosa already offers established winter attractions – from Ski Valley and the Squirrel Hills Trail Park, to Skate the Lake and Rock the Lake, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cultural programming through the Expressions Concert Series –while Clear Lake ramps up its own winter activation, the entire west-central Manitoba corridor becomes more compelling.

A family trip stretches into a weekend. An out of province visit to Brandon or Winnipeg turns into a multistop itinerary. A snowshoe outing becomes a hotel stay, a restaurant meal, and a return visit.

A PROVINCIAL PATTERN

Across our province Travel Manitoba, tourism planners and communities are increasingly aligned around winter and shoulderseason development. The logic is practical: much of the infrastructure already exists, communities are quieter, and winter experiences – when done well – feel charmed and authentic rather than manufactured.

As for tourism from abroad, the evidence is emerging but remains cautious. Manitoba is not yet a mass international winter destination, but it is increasingly appearing on the radar of niche travellers: coldclimate enthusiasts, Nordic spa seekers, photographers, and visitors drawn by wildlife, dark skies, stars and northern lights, and a distinctly prairie-rooted snow culture.

These visitors don’t arrive by the busload – but they travel off-peak, spend intentionally, and often stay longer. That is precisely the kind of tourism winter-ready communities are best positioned to attract.

ECONOMIC BENEFITS THAT STAY LOCAL

The payoff of cold-season tourism is quieter than summer peaks, but more durable. It supports year-round employment, keeps small businesses operating through traditionally slow months, and justifies reinvestment in public assets –trails, lighting, warming shelters, and programming that residents themselves use daily.

In Minnedosa, winter events funnel dollars directly back into job creation, childcare, sport, recreation, and volunteer organizations. In Clear Lake, winter activation helps sustain accommodations, dining, and service businesses that once shuttered until May. In both places, the benefits ripple outward: fewer seasonal layoffs, stronger volunteer networks, and a deeper sense of shared purpose.

That broader shift is backed by hard numbers. According to Travel Manitoba, tourism contributes

roughly $373 million in provincial tax revenues each year and supports more than 25,000 jobs across the province. President and CEO Colin Ferguson has described tourism as a “powerful economic multiplier,” generating revenue that helps fund health care, infrastructure, and education. In 2023 alone, 10.4 million visitors spent $1.82 billion in Manitoba, underscoring the sector’s economic weight. With crossborder travel slowing and more Canadians opting to swap U.S. trips for closer-tohome staycations, communities like ours – already positioned as a distinctive winter adventure destination –stand to benefit from that renewed focus on local and regional travel.

INNOVATION WITHOUT ERASING TRADITION

Perhaps the most important lesson is cultural rather than economic. Successful winter destinations don’t abandon tradition – they reinterpret it.

Lake curling and pond hockey still matter. So does ice fishing with your kids, and skiing the same hill your grandparents did – followed, perhaps, by the simple pull of hot chocolate on Main Street. New ideas – fat biking, light installations, culinary pop-ups, winter art, wildlife viewing, landscape painting, photography, and the fast-growing world of social media storytelling –don’t replace those traditions. They build on them.

The region’s strength lies in that balance. Innovation grows best when it respects what already belongs to the place. Winter doesn’t need to be reinvented – it needs to

be welcoming, lively, and shared, with the communal warmth the area is justifiably known for.

Together, the Minnedosa and Clear Lake corridor demonstrates that winter development is not a gamble, but a long game – one built on community confidence, smart partnerships, and the simple truth that people will travel for something real.

None of this happens by accident. Behind every groomed trail, cleared rink, lit path, staffed hill, and successful winter event are volunteers, municipal crews, service clubs, business owners, artists, organizers, and seasonal workers who arrive long before the crowds and stay well after they leave. Winter activity is sustained not by spectacle, but by commitment – by people willing to shovel, flood, plan, cook, coach, repair, and welcome others into shared spaces. Their quiet work turns cold weather into community connection, and the exhilaration of winter into something worth celebrating.

The snow will fall either way. The difference now is that towns across Manitoba are choosing to meet it head-on, with anticipation, lights on, doors open, hot beverages ready, and plates warm – turning cold months into attractions rather than hibernation.

6

Friday, January 23, 2026

SPORTS

Female Chiefs go 1-1 on the week

The Yellowhead Chiefs earned two points in Manitoba Female U18 AAA Hockey play over the past week, finding themselves in fifth place, two points back of the Westman Wildcats.

The regular season schedule is winding down with only five games remaining, including a home game with the Wildcats that was postponed on Friday, Jan. 16.

EASTMAN 4 CHIEFS 0

Delainey Rigaux scored twice and Isabelle Laboissiere made 17 saves to record the shutout as the leagueleading Selects blanked the Chiefs 4-0 in Shoal Lake on Sunday, Jan, 18.

Cheyenne Scott Cooke and Sophie Remillard added singles for the visitors, who scored twice on the powerplay.

The Selects led 2-0 after the first and second periods.

Kylie Hack finished with 29 saves in the Yellowhead net.

CHIEFS 3

CENTRAL PLAINS 2 (SO)

Haley Chipelski tied the game with a shorthanded goal in the third period and then scored the shootout win-

U18

ner as the Chiefs got by the Capitals 3-2 in Shoal Lake on Saturday, Jan. 17.

Jordan Woloski had the other goal for the Chiefs.

Hailey Terrick and Madlyn Moerkerk replied for the Capitals.

The teams were scoreless through two periods.

Kylie Hack stopped 24 shots in the Yellowhead net, while Bailey Schwartz blocked 31 shots for Central Plains.

NOTES – The Chiefs will take a break from league action and play in a tournament in Winnipeg on Jan. 22, 23 and 24.

RIGHT: Chiefs’ forward Callee Despiegelaere creates a screen in front of the Central Plains’ goal during play on Saturday, Jan.17 in ShoalLake

PHOTO BY DARRELL NESBITT/ SOUTH MOUNTAI N PRESS

Chiefs keeping their playoff hopes alive

The Yellowhead Chiefs had a very productive week in the Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League as they picked up five of a possible six points.

The Chiefs are five points back of the eighth place Pembina Valley Hawks as they continue to keep their playoff hopes alive.

CHIEFS 7 KENORA 3

Nolan Kozak and Grady McNish each scored twice to

U18

lead the Chiefs to a 7-3 win over the Thistles in the second game of their weekend doubleheader in Kenora on Sunday, Jan. 18. Brody Bohemier, Redden Richmond and Winston Lepp added singles for the visitors, who held period leads of 2-1

and 5-3.

Replying for the hosts were Hayden Willett, Nathan Ogilvie and Benton Ashworth.

Sawyer Wallin of the Chiefs and Keanu Waasa’aanakwad of the Thistles each made 40 saves in goal.

KENORA 3 CHIEFS 2 (OT)

Ethan Rody tied the game with less than three minutes remaining in the third period

and then scored the overtime winner as the Thistles got by the Chiefs 3-2 on Saturday, Jan. 17.

After a scoreless first period, Grady McNish of the Chiefs and Jeremy Hutchinson traded goals in the second. Redden Richmond scored on the powerplay at 16:11 of the third to give the Chiefs a 2-1 lead setting the stage for Rody’s game-tying goal just over a minute later.

Keanu Waasa’aanakwad

made 43 saves in goal for the Thistles, while Landon McGregor finished with 29 saves in the Yellowhead net.

CHIEFS 5 PARKLAND 2

Five different players figured in the scoring as the Chiefs dumped the Rangers 52 in Shoal Lake on Tuesday, Jan. 13.

Alec Strachan, Wyatt Njegovan, Nolan Kozak, Winston Lepp and Isaac McArthur scored for Yellowhead, who

held period leads of 2-0 and 42.

Landyn Garton and Noah Smigelsky replied for the Rangers.

Sawyer Wallin earned the win with a 33-save performance. Eddy Person finished with 30 stops in the Parkland net.

NOTES – The Chiefs will host the Pembina Valley Hawks in Shoal Lake on Saturday, Jan. 24 and Sunday, Jan. 25.

Wheat Kings score first wins of 2026

RYAN NESBITT

South Mountain Press

The Brandon Wheat Kings went 2-1 on the week, winning a pair of games that snapped a five-game winless skid and gave the team their first victories of the new year. The Wheat Kings continue to hold down fifth spot in the WHL’s Eastern Conference with a 24-17-1-0 record.

PRINCE ALBERT 5

BRANDON 2

Michal Orsulak took the win in the Prince Albert net, making 15 saves. Jayden Kraus was much busier for Brandon, stopping 39 of 44.

BRANDON 3

SASKATOON 1

Brandon picked up its first win of 2026 in a pivotal game against the Blades in Saskatoon, scoring a 3-1 win on Wednesday, Jan. 14. Grayson Burzynski, Prabh Bhathal, and Joby Baumuller

Brandon’s winless streak hit five games after falling to the host Prince Albert Raiders on Tuesday, Jan. 13. The second place Raiders received goals from Daxon Rudolph, Linden Burrett, Riley Boychuk, Owen Corkish, and Brayden Dube. Luke Mistelbacher and Grayson Burzynski replied for the Wheat Kings.

scored for Brandon, who led 1-0 and 2-0 at the intermissions.

Zach Olsen scored the lone Saskatoon goal.

Filip Ruzicka was excellent for Brandon, making 35 saves, while Ryley Budd stopped 29 of 31 for the Blades.

BRANDON 6

VICTORIA 1

Brandon had a four-goal second period en route to a 61 win over the visiting Victoria Royals on Friday, Jan. 16.

Jaxon Jacobson, who had two goals and two assists led the way for the Wheat Kings, who led 2-1 and 6-1 at the intermissions.

Gunnar Gleasman, Joby Baumuller, Caleb Hadland, and Luke Mistelbacher also scored for Brandon, while Heath Nelson had the lone Victoria goal.

Jayden Kraus got the win in goal against his former squad, making 28 saves. Former Wheat Kings Ethan Eskit was between the pipes for the Royals, stopping 22 of 28.

NEWS & NOTES: Joby Baumuller’s goal against Victoria was his team leading 30th of the season... Jaxon Jacobson leads the team in points, with 51 (13 goals and 38 assists) through 37 games... Chase Surkan is seventh in league rookie scoring... the Wheat Kings have now embarked on their west coast road trip, playing their next seven games on the road. The team’s next home action is on Friday, Feb. 6 against the Calgary Hitmen.

High school hockey action continues

Only a handful of games remain in the regular season of the Westman High School Hockey League.

The Major Pratt Trojans are the only area team in the top half of the 15-team league, sitting in fifth place.

The Minnedosa-Erickson Chancellors currently sit tied for ninth place, while the Hamiota-RiversElton-Strathclair Huskies are in a tie for 11th spot, and the Birtle-

Shoal Lake-Rossburn Falcons are 15th. ME 7 Crocus 4

Minnedosa-Erickson – William Melvin (4), Aiden McGorman (2), Garret Melvin Crocus Plains – Destin Brown

(2), Lachlan Sprott, Brady Reid MP 6 SB 3

Major Pratt – Carter Moncrief (2), Jorey Reichmuth, Jordan Gambler, Kane Reagh, Brody Cook

Sandy Bay – Kylis Moose, Lukas Kopp, Erik Kopp ME 7 HRES 2

Minnedosa-Erickson – William Melvin (3), Aiden McGorman (2), Myles Beatty, Colton McCaughan Hamiota-Rivers-Elton-

Strathclair – Aaron Roels, Sam Rivas RGG 7 MP 4

Roblin-Grandview-Gilbert Plains – Ryder Newton (2), Kenai Mouck, Cash Kitzul, Maddox Andres, Rossi Puchailo, Elijah Wendell

Major Pratt – Jordan Gambler, Carter Moncrief, Evan Chartier, Nathan Miller SV 13 BSR 2 Swan Valley – Easten Eggie

SB

Sandy

RCMP urges motorists to be cautious in winter weather

Manitoba RCMP are advising motorists throughout much of the province to be very cautious when travelling due to deteriorating weather conditions. Much of the Trans-Canada Highway was closed recently due to blowing snow that caused poor visibility. A number of other highways have also been closed or were also reported poor driving conditions. Motorists planning to head out on the highway are encouraged to reconsider until conditions improve. Current highway conditions and up-

RCMP Briefs

dates are available by calling 511 or viewing online at www.manitoba511.ca. Manitobans are also reminded that

travelling on a closed highway is illegal and dangerous for both themselves and the emergency crews who may have to help them if they are in a collision or slide off the road. During the most recent storm, RCMP issued 25 tickets to motorists for driving on a closed highway, which carries a minimum fine of $298 and two demerit points on a driver’s licence.

On Jan. 15, Dauphin RCMP responded to a break and enter in progress at a home in the city on Fifth Avenue NW.

The incident began when the couple inside the home woke up, noticed that some of their personal items within the home had been moved and heard sounds coming from their basement. The couple immediately called RCMP and safely exited the home. Shortly after RCMP arrived, a male suspect was observed leaving the home and subsequently told by an officer that they were under arrest. The suspect, who appeared to be intoxicated, ran from police but was quickly caught. He then resisted arrest and as-

saulted an officer, resulting in a brief physical altercation before the suspect was handcuffed and safely taken into custody. The RCMP officer sustained a minor injury during the altercation. A 21-yearold man of Dauphin has been charged with: Break and enter; Resisting arrest; and Assaulting a police officer. He was released with a future court date.

On Jan. 15, Pembina Valley RCMP responded to a workplace accident that occurred at a food manufactur-

ing factory in the Rhineland Industrial Park just north of Altona. Upon arrival, a 42year-old male was already being treated by EMS personnel for severe injuries he sustained after being pulled into machinery. The male was transported to Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Manitoba Workplace Health and Safety were contacted and are investigating. Pembina Valley RCMP also continue to investigate.

23,

A drienne Falloon named RussellBinscarth CAO

Russell: The Banner – The new CAO (Chief Administrative Officer) for the Municipality of Russell-Binscarth, Adrienne (Kyle) Falloon, is no stranger to the area. Growing up in Binscarth, Falloon (nee Slimmon) graduated from Major Pratt School as a member of the Class of 2011. Falloon feels the community portrays a positive, safe and family friendly place to live and is excited to be working to further develop that portrayal and attract future citizens.

Killarney: The Guide –The town of Killarney’s old tobogganing run – Dean Man’s Hill – has re-opened to the general public, thanks to Charles and Tricia Roberts, who bought the property at the base of the Killarney Water Tower on Highway 3. Upon hearing the story of how generations of families enjoyed the sport over the decades, the Roberts, formerly of Dauphin, tore down a fence to bring back an old snowy community attraction. Adding a small outdoor fire pit next to an old ice shack trailer (equipped with a wood stove) functions as a warming shed for all ages.

Dauphin: The Herald Jack Jody, the son of Holly and Joel Warkentin of Fork River was recorded as the first baby born in 2026 at the Dauphin Regional Health Centre (DRHC). DRHC’s first baby of the new year came into the world at 1:54 a.m. Jan. 1 weighing 6 lbs. and 13 oz.

Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – Moosomin is preparing for another season in the Communities in Bloom (CIB) program following a strong showing at the national level. Angela Thorn with Moosomin Parks and Recreation and CIB project feels the program extends beyond beautification and plays a role in community and economic development. Forty-nine communities participated in the program across Saskatchewan last year, with Moosomin being one of two competing at the national level securing five blooms.

Roblin: The Review – Under the Manitoba Growth, Renewal and Opportunities (GRO) program, Grandview Municipality received $1,262,314 for the Grandview Community Sustainability Initiative, which enabled the installation of a new ice plant in the Grandview arena and upgrades to the curling rink. Five projects in total were announced as part of the first installment of the 2025-2026 Manitoba GRO funding, a $42 million grant program.

Moosomin: The WorldSpectator – Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe was on hand

News

Clips

from MB/SK weeklies

to present a Premier’s Commendation Medallion to the fire departments of Redvers, represented by Brad Hutton (fire chief) and Carlyle, accepted by Don VanMeer, for their roles in helping to fight the destructive wildfires in northern Saskatchewan in 2025.

Boissevain: The Recorder – Elgin United Church held its last service on Dec. 14 after 119 years of service. The church was originally built in 1906 as Grace Methodist Church, but in 1925 the Methodist, Presbyterian, and Congregational churches joined to form Elgin United. In 2015, the congregation had unfortunately dwindled enough that regular services stopped and Elgin shared a pastoral charge with Souris. Closing due to a lack of funds, plans are to sell the building.

Virden: The EmpireAdvance – Tundra Oil & Gas Place buzzed with activity over three days in the early part of January, as figure skaters from Manitoba and Saskatchewan competed in Skate Virden’s annual FunSkate competition. The fun-filled weekend competition held events for the youngest CanSkaters and StarSkate and on to Adult Gold, Creative Improv, Artistic, and Synchronized Skating. Drawing over 300 skaters in all, along with close to 50 coaches, judges and volunteers, meant a major event for Virden.

Treherne: The Times –Now in its sixth decade of service, the Delahunt Golf & Country Club of Treherne, continued its commitment to expand the club’s junior program, working in association with Tiger Hills Recreation and Golf Manitoba in 2025. The board of directors is currently looking at options to replace the existing outdoor toilets, between holes 7 and 8, as the facility had to be closed. The new location will be suitable for septic truck access. The beautiful 9-hole course plays as 18 with alternate tee areas on each hole.

Killarney: The Guide – No eggs on the local Killarney Food Bank shelves has led operators to seek an alternative route to provide them to customers. The issue is that ungraded eggs – which the Food Bank is able to purchase farm fresh and locally at a very reasonable price – don’t fall under the guidelines of Public Health. Killarney Food Bank assists around 60 customer families.

ALL IN FUN

Colton Yarish, coach of the Erickson-Onanole-Sandy Lake (EOS) U7 hockey team, directed his players during a stoppage in play at the Shoal Lake Communiplex on Saturday, Jan. 17. Getting up real early, the Wildcats hit the road to pounce on the Eagles for a scheduled 9:00 a.m. start. The distance is nothing out of the ordinary ,as these youngsters, along with fellow EOS players, made a number of trips to practice prior to the weather turning cold enough to lay down ice in their home towns.

Matthew Kroeker Journeyman Mason Tile Kitchens, Baths Waterproof Showers Steam Rooms

Masonry Field Stone, Brick, Veneers Fireplaces Masonry Heaters

All repairs, renovations, and new construction Cell: 204-232-9797

Specializing in

Heliopsis-Sole-Giatto willbring sunshine to a garden

A ll America Selections

All America Selections (AAS) is a non-profit trialing organization that tests new, never-before-sold varieties of plants for the home gardener. Read on for the results after a full season of anonymous trialing by volunteer horticultural professionals. Only the top garden performers are given the AAS Winner award designation for their superior performance. The AAS Winner label is like a stamp of approval as their mission is to promote new garden varieties with superior garden performance. Their tagline “Tested Nationally and Proven Locally®” most definitely says it all! The 2026 winners will be available for purchase for the gardening season as supply becomes available. It is sometimes difficult to get the seed or the plants desired when the winners are just announced but if you go to the All America Selections website, they list the seed houses that sell seed of the winning plants. Check out the following link for more information https://all-america selections.org/buy-winners/. Last week, we covered some of the All America Selections 2026 edible winners and now we move onto the ornamental winners.

Coreopsis Sunglobe brings brilliant, season-long colour to all the sunny spots in your garden. Producing tons of fluffy, golden yellow, semidouble flowers on sturdy stems, this tidy plant will deliver multiple flushes of vibrant gold from spring through fall.

Dianthus Supra Cherry Picotee F1 will give your garden an unparalleled display of colour. This interspecific hybrid delivers eye-catching blooms on a compact but bushy plant. It is heat and drought resistant and takes little care for the colour it delivers – including deadheading.

Heliopsis Sole Giatto will bring sunshine to your garden in containers or borders. It is approximately 20 inches

(50 centimetres) in height and spread and throughout the season will effortlessly attract beneficial pollinators while resisting deer and rabbits. It is rated Zone 3 to 8 so in a sheltered location or with some snow will be perennial in nature.

Rudbeckia Claire™ Orange F1 is the first pollen-free F1 hybrid Rudbeckia! It is exceptionally vigorous, has impressive floriferousness and great heat and disease tolerance. It literally transforms your garden with effortless cheer.

Sedum Spectacular grown from seed delivers rock-solid garden performance. These sturdy, full and non-flopping plants will give your garden excellent vigor and uniformity in both height and spread. It produces bright light pink flower clusters on a light green foliage ensuring it is a focal point in your garden.

Zinnia Profusion Double White features impressive, large, double flowers that create a lush, almost tropical look. No deadheading is necessary for this fourteen-inchhigh (one third of a metre) plant that spreads to about 20 inches in width (about a half metre). Season long beauty will grace your garden with this Zinnia.

All the best to you and yours in 2026!

Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; growyourfuture@gmail.com or on facebook@orchidhort.

Trying out a dry but tasty February

Sally R., Omaha, NE

A: A month-long break from health-damaging fats and food additives is a smart alternative. A Dry February that has millions of folks ditching greasy fried foods (loaded with saturated fats, inflammatory processed carbs, sugars and toxic additives) could do a lot to start transforming the health future of each individual and the overall quality of health and health care in this country.

Just say no to:

– All fast foods

– Anything deep-fried

– Chips

– Red meats and processed meats in fried, prepared foods and home recipes

– Processed and packaged breaded vegetables, fish and chicken and dough-based items

– Sugar-added fried desserts (bye-bye donuts)

That leaves you with thousands of fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins (salmon, skinless poultry), legumes and beans, and 100% whole grains to enjoy.

What can you achieve in a month without fried foods?

You’ll stabilize and lower your blood sugar and blood pressure, reduce lousy LDL cholesterol, protect your heart and brain, sleep better, and lose weight. Not bad for a month of great tasting food.

In addition, if you stick with the program all year, it

Dr. Roizen

HEALTHY LIVING

could ease or prevent chronic conditions such as sleep apnea, Type 2 diabetes, and dementia, slow premature aging and reduce the risk of many cancers. My books, “What to Eat When” and “The What to Eat When Cookbook,” can help you make the transition to a diet free of harmful fried and processed foods – and stick with it. If you’re interested in starting a Dry February movement, let me know by writing a comment at the bottom of my free newsletter at michaelfroizenmd.substack. com.

Q: I’ve been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, which sounds like something doctors made up to get you to see them more often. Do I really need to worry about this? – Pete R., Gainesville, FL

A: You have heard of precancerous polyps and prefrailty (you’re headed for super-aging weakness), well, pre-diabetes is just as serious. It sets you up for all the potential health challenges that come along with fullblown Type 2 diabetes. They include vision, kidney,

nerve, gastrointestinal, cognitive, and heart diseases. And pre-diabetes delivers some serious health challenges even if it never progresses to Type 2 diabetes. Having a slightly abovenormal glucose level (a fasting glucose level of 100 to 125 mg/dL or an A1C of 5.7% to 6.4%) predicts that you already are contending with inflammatory and metabolic disruption. That can cause damage to your blood vessels and kidneys and trigger socalled silent heart attacks, according to the Mayo

Clinic.

But reversing prediabetes offers a way out of those health risks. In fact, a new study that reviewed the findings of the U.S. Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study and the Chinese DaQing Diabetes Prevention Outcomes Study shows that reversing prediabetes slashes the risk that you’ll die from a cardiovascular event over the next 10 years or be hospitalized for heart failure by up to 58%. And the benefits persists for decades when participants

Dauphin

reduced their blood sugar levels and kept them lower.

So, take this diagnosis of pre-diabetes as an opportunity to reclaim your health, achieve a younger ActualAge (find out yours at 4YOUngevity.com) and avoid the health challenges that you’ll face if you don’t do anything about it. Work with your doctor, a nutritionist, and perhaps a therapist to reduce stress, increase your physical activity and switch to a healthy plant-based diet. And check out my book, “This is Your Do-Over,” for

ways to reclaim your healthy future.

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, “The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow,” and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

DEADLINE: Tuesday at 12:00 Noon

Place your Classified Advertisement by Phone, Fax, Mail or E-mail Ph: 204-759-2644 Ext. 1 Fax: 204-759-2521 E-mail: smpclassified@mymts.net

Mail: Nesbitt Publishing Ltd., Box 160, Shoal Lake, MB, R0J 1Z0

Reach the entire Province: $189.00 (49 weekly papers) Westman or Eastman regions: $119.00

COMING EVENTS

It’s hard to believe but not everyone has Facebook. This ad you’re reading costs $13.50 and reaches over 5 communities and 3,000 readers every week. And next week it will be half price. Planning an event? If you tell them they WILL come. Call Michelle at 204759-2644 ext. 1.

WANTED

Licensed gun dealer looking for firearms in all classes, and anything firearms related. Inheritance assistance provided. Can store handguns during the ban. Call or text Keith 204-471-9015.

LAND FOR SALE/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 (R.M.)s of: Dallas/Red Rose - Northern Affairs Act, Gilbert Plains, Kelsey, Mountain and Springfield. A complete listing of Agricultural 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 Feb. 23 to 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 1866-210-9589. A listing of MA Agricultural Crown Lands District Offices can be found online at: https:/ /www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/landmanagement/crown- land/ agricultural-crown-lands-districtoffices.html

ARTICLES FOR SALE

Plan for your success in 2026. Let us help you book a blanket classified ads across Manitoba for 2026. Advertise. Selling seeds or

land? Having an event? Advertise. You will be seen in the MCNA Newspapers which are seen in over 368,000+ homes in Manitoba. Please call this newspaper 204759-2644 to book now or call MCNA at 204-947-1691 for more details or to book ads. MCNAManitoba Community Newspapers Association. www.mcna.com

Did You Know? We print Personal and Business Cheques! 100 Personal Cheques $99 + taxes, call for pricing on Manual Business Cheques and Laser Business Cheques. Call Connie at 204-7592644 Ext. 2 or email ctwprinting @mymts.net. Nesbitt Publishing, Shoal Lake.

Window Envelopes! #20-A, 8 5/ 8” x 3 3/4” security, 500, reg. $85.99, sale $42.99; #10 Double Window, 9 1/2 x 4 1/8, security, 500, reg. $85.99, sale $42.99; #9 Window, 8 7/8 x 3 7/8, not secu-

Classified Advertising Rates

Minimum 25 words $7.00, additional words 25¢ (plus GST) Extra weeks are one-half original cost • Not responsible for errors in handwritten submissions Special rate for Obituaries, Cards of Thanks, In Memoriams

Minimum 25 words $7.00, additional words 20¢ (plus GST) • It is preferred if Obituaries can be emailed. Any obituary copy that is typeset by our staff will be subject to proof approval prior to publication. No discount for municipal or government ads • Ads not pre-paid by Thursday Noon are subject to a $2.50 billing charge

rity, 500, reg. $49.99, sale $24.99. Inquire at Nesbitt Publishing in Shoal Lake, 204-759-2644 ext. 1.

NOTICES

Does Facebook support local? Has your organization ever called up Facebook and asked them for a donation to your cause? Local businesses rely on local support to exist. Shop local today.

Urgent Press Releases. Have a newsworthy item to announce? An exciting change in operations? Though we cannot guarantee publication, MCNA will get the information into the right hands for only $35 plus GST. Call Manitoba Community Newspapers Association 204-947-1691 for more information, See www.mcna.com under the ‘Types of Advertising’ tab for more details.

Invest in advertising. The cost of advertising is small when you think of the number of people who will potentially attend your event simply because they saw your ad in the newspaper. If the cost of advertising is covered by just two or three admissions to your event, any additional guests you welcome is money in your pocket. Advertising does not cost, it pays! Call Michelle at 204-759-2644 ext. 1.

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or enti-

ties that post the advertisement, and the Manitoba Community Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.mcna.com.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

■ MAINTENANCE POSITION

(Full-time year-round)

The maintenance team is looking for a positive and motivated person to joi n ourteam.

Such person must be responsible, capable of working by themselves or as part of team,be self- motivated,be able to take direction and be reliable.

The idealcandidate would possess a moderate to high levelof understanding and capabilities with i n building maintenance and construction,yard maintenance and landscaping although training is provided.

Wages are competitive,work schedule is flexible,mosttools are provided, staff housing is also available depending on availability.

This position is predominately days,but must be prepared to work evenings,holidays and weekends ifrequired.

Candidate must be willing to work indoors and outdoors,be physically fitand possess a valid class 5 drivers license.

Please send resumesto:maintenance@elkhornresortmb.ca