January 15, 2026
New Lac du Bonnet PCH on schedule
The province of Manitoba says construction of the Lac du Bonnet personal care home (PCH) remains on schedule and on budget for fall 2027 completion.
On Jan. 8, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced the facility will give every family confidence that their loved ones can access the care they need in a space that feels familiar and safe.
“Projects like this allow residents to share meals around real kitchens, welcome grandchildren into bright living rooms, support health-care workers and offer hospital patients a more appropriate place to heal,” Asagwara said.
The 95-bed, $66.4 million facility will replace the existing 30-bed personal care home, adding 65 net new long-term care beds for seniors in the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority (IERHA), with construction underway since fall 2025. The project helps seniors and patients move from hospitals or the community into PCHs that better match their needs or appropriate level of care, and keeps them closer to home, the minister noted.
Foundation work is complete while masonry, steel erection and hollow-core installation is underway. The facility uses a contemporary small-house design model that groups resident rooms into eight self-sufficient households with dedicated kitchens, dining and living areas. Expanded spaces will support improved airflow, infection prevention and the use of modern technology in a home-like setting.
The Lac du Bonnet PCH has been more than 30 years in the making. This project was originally announced in 2012 by the then Greg Selinger NDP government and cancelled by the Brian Pallister Conservatives in 2017 as part of a series of health care facility project cuts across the province to reduce the provincial deficit.
With the IERHA identified as the health association most in need of personal care home spaces in Manitoba, Lac du Bonnet in turn has been identified as the community most in need in the service area.
The Lac du Bonnet Heritage Corp. was formed in 2018 under the direction of former mayor Gordon Peters, who remains on as CEO. The working group consulted with the town and RM, the province, private sector PCH facilities and construction firms in preparation for a facility design and capital cost estimate as part of a business plan submission to the IERHA.
The project was put back on the table by Heather Stephanson’s PC government in August of last year ahead of the fall election. But shortly after winning the election, Premier Wab Kinew and his government put this project on “pause” along with several others after alleging the finances they inherited were not as originally believed.
In March 2025, Kinew and Asagwara were in Lac du Bonnet to announce the long-awaited PCH was on again.
“After many years of uncertainty, the Town of Lac du Bonnet is thrilled that Premier
Kinew and his cabinet have finally moved the Lac du Bonnet PCH project forward,” said Town of Lac du Bonnet CAO Marley Seymour. “This is an exciting moment for our community, as it represents a long-awaited step in providing our seniors with the care and support they deserve, close to home and family. We look forward to seeing this important project continue to progress and to the benefits it will bring to our residents for years to come.”
Construction is scheduled for completion in fall 2027, with the facility aiming to open by the end of 2027. The IERHA will own and operate the building. Peters and John Neufeld, husband of a Lac du Bonnet PCH resident, emphasized community need and long-awaited progress.
“The Lac du Bonnet Heritage Corporation did the original planning and design of the new PCH, and we are very pleased that the development is continuing,” said Peters. “Seeing the new facility start to take shape is exciting for our community. PCH beds in our area have been short for years and the community waits with great anticipation for the PCH to be completed so the residents will have a place to go as they age and need care. It will be close to home and family, which is so critical as we age.”
“I really am looking forward to the new building. It feels like something our community has been waiting on for a long time,” said Neufeld. “I hope I can live there myself one day. Mostly, I’m happy knowing my wife will have a comfortable home close to family and familiar faces. I’m excited to see it finished.”
Lac du Bonnet MLA Wayne Ewasko said after a year and a half delay, he was happy to see the progress being made on “our Progressive Conservative government‘s commitment to the Lac du Bonnet personal care home”, which was to start construction in September 2023.
“The project passed through treasury board and received Cabinet approval. Ewasko stated. “It’s unfortunate that the NDP‘s ideology gets in the way of health-care services which Manitobans desperately need.”
SAFARI raises $27,000 for Canadian Foodgrains Bank
By Cathy Juskow
Springfield Area Farmers Aiding Relief Internationally (SAFARI) 2025 marked the 13th year of “growing locally to give globally”, as they support those in need in countries around the world.
SAFARI farmers are a part of a project where growers come together to raise money for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB), a charity that was formed in 1983 to address the famine in Ethiopia. In 2024-25, CFGB members provided assistance to 1,176,111 people in 37 countries.
The Winnipeg-based CFGB placed second on Charity Intelligence Canada’s list of Top 10 Impact Charities. SAFARI 2025 committee members include Roger and Irene Vaags, Brent Reid, Howard Bredin, Rick Vaags, Debbie Shaver and Dale Friesen.
SAFARI dedicates land to the growing of crops, with proceeds from their harvest being donated to the CFGB. Along with donations from the public, expenses for growing the crops are lessened by in-kind donations of inputs such as crop insurance along with seed and fertilizer from agricultural suppliers. Local farmers donate their labour to the seeding, spraying, and harvesting of the fields.
“Our soybeans yielded 50 bushels per acre. We were quite happy with that,” SAFARI’s chair Roger Vaags said. “Our wheat yielded 47 bushels mainly due to drought We would’ve expected a higher yield from the wheat on an average year. The oats were around 125 bushels per acre, which is also a little light due to lack of rain. The three fields totalled about 90 acres, and we were generally pleased with how the yields were.”
The SAFARI fall dinner held Nov. 6 at the Cooks Creek Community Centre was well attended, with about 190 people raising $27,000 as the community continues to generously support SAFARI and the CFGB.
“Our donation to CFGB will bless many people but I can’t help feeling blessed as well,” Vaags added.
Donations are welcome year-round and can be mailed to SAFARI Growing Project, c/o Brent Reid, 27140 Centerline Rd., Dugald, MB, R5P 0A3. Cheques should be made out to SAFARI Growing Project. The Canadian Foodgrains Bank issues tax receipts at year’s end.
The committee is seeking new plots of land for SAFARI crops. For inquiries about donating land, services, and products for the 2026 growing season or general inquiries about the SAFARI Growing Project, Roger Vaags can be contacted at 204-853-2009 or rvaags@mymts.net
If anyone wants to be added to the SAFARI emailing list, please send a message to safarigrowingproject@gmail.com
Body-worn cameras on deployment
RCMP detachments using recording devices across Manitoba, North Eastman
Manitoba RCMP have deployed 98 per cent of body-worn cameras to frontline officers across the province, including detachments in North Eastman
Following a 12-month rollout period, RCMP recently announced detachments across Manitoba are now equipped with body-worn cameras. The last remaining officers to receive body-worn cameras are in Berens River where a new detachment, with the required infrastructure, was scheduled to open before Christmas.
Cpl. Jenelle Hulan of the Manitoba RCMP Major Crime Unit said body-worn cameras have provided police with many useful tools that make everyday policing a lot easier.
“Taking statements and obtaining photos of scenes, victims and suspects is extremely easy and the apps are excellent in tracking our movement during an investigation,” Hulan said. “Overall, this is a tool we needed in front-line policing to increase transparency and trust for both police and the public. Having concrete evidence that is uploaded and stored in such an easy manner also makes life easier when completing court packs.”
The Manitoba RCMP began their portion of the national rollout of body-worn cameras at the end of 2024 with officers wearing their Axon Public Safety Canada Inc. cameras on their chests. The public know it’s recording when a red light is visible and flashing below the lens of the camera. The cameras are to be on during service calls and investigations as well as responses to protests and mental health calls. The devices will not be engaged in situations where there is an expectation of privacy including strip searches or in washrooms, hospitals and treatment centres.
RCMP Sgt. Paul Manaigre said police believe the body-worn cameras will help increase trust between police and the communities they serve because video evidence collected will provide an independent and objective way to capture interactions between all parties involved. It will also help resolve public complaints and improve evidence gathering during a time where emotions are high on both sides.
“When we arrive at a scene... responding officers are going into an unknown situation, and there may be a high level of risk associated to the call,” Manaigre said. “There are so many things happening at once, and interactions at the scene can be remembered differently by both the officer and the member of the public.”
He said if there is a discrepancy as to what occurred during the call, the video can now be reviewed, which benefits the public and the police. The use of these cameras will be complemented by a digital evidence management system that will be used to store and manage body-worn video.
“This video review takes away police and public bias as to what happened and what was said. The fact that statements are recorded and that the cameras will be recording when evidence is located at the scene will no doubt be very beneficial to investigations.”
In southern Manitoba, Steinbach was the first to begin using cameras in November 2024.
According to RCMP Media Relations Officer Michelle Lissel, roll-out dates for Beausejour and Oakbank detachments were March 2025. Lac du Bonnet was set for this past April with Powerview scheduled to follow after that. She was uncertain exactly when each local detachments was up and running, but noted it would not have been long after training was completed.
The use of these cameras is complemented by a digital evidence management system that stores and manages video. From the 638 body-worn cameras in use across the province before the end of 2025, the Manitoba RCMP accumulated 174,369 pieces of evidence in the form of videos, images, audio statements and documents.
Additionally, the RCMP has sent 1,510 digital case shares to Manitoba Prosecutions.
These numbers are rapidly growing every day.
“Without a doubt, body-worn cameras have quickly become an incredibly beneficial and important tool for our officers. The evidence collected through video footage has directly contributed to numerous investigations and has helped our organization become more transparent,” said Assistant Commissioner Scott McMurchy, Commanding Officer of the Manitoba RCMP.
Fatality in semi, SUV crash
A collision between an SUV and a semi-truck in Lac du Bonnet claimed the life of a Pinawa senior last week.
Around noon on Jan. 9, Lac du Bonnet RCMP responded to a fatal collision at the intersection of Hwy 11 and Minnewawa Street, in the RM of Lac du Bonnet.
Police say a 2022 Buick Envision, travelling west on Minnewawa Street, entered the intersection and was struck on the driver’s side door by a semi-truck flatbed carrying a tractor, travelling north on Hwy 11. Struck at highway speed, the SUV was pushed into the ditch. The semi also hit the ditch and lost it’s load in the process.
The driver of the SUV, a 78-year-old woman from Pinawa, was pronounced deceased on scene.
The driver of the semi, a 41-year-old male from Fannystelle, was not physically injured.
RCMP continue to investigate.
Potential charges for Hwy 44 crash
RCMP are contemplating charges after they allege a Tyndall resident caused a two-vehicle highway collision last week by not stopping at a stop sign.
On Jan. 9 at around 6 p.m., RCMP were called to the crash at the intersection of Hwy 12S and Hwy 44, just east of Tyndall. Police say an eastbound 2018 Chevy Silverado being driven by a 63-year-old male from Winnipeg, collided with a northbound 2017 Chevy Trax SUV, being driven by a 40-year-old woman from Tyndall. Police claim the driver of the SUV did not stop at the stop sign, and was struck by the pick-up.
Upon arrival, responders found the driver of the SUV trapped inside the vehicle. Members of the Beausejour Brokenhead Fire Department used the jaws of life to extract her from the vehicle. EMS on scene took over patient care. The driver did not suffer life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the truck suffered only minor injuries.
Emergency responders would like to remind motorists to drive carefully and to winter road conditions. Slow down, stay alert and give emergency responders plenty of space when passing an incident scene.
Remembering Queenie from The Clipper 2006-2026
By Mark T. Buss
“Queenie from The Clipper” – office mouser and local celebrity – has crossed the rainbow bridge.
For almost two decades, Queenie ran Third Street South in Beausejour with an iron grip, even extending her territory from Second Street to Fourth and from Park Avenue to Ashton and beyond. Other animals – cats, dogs and even a coyote – were warned, then dealt with aggressively before being chased off.
In her heyday, she was a machine. It was not uncommon for her to lay on the sidewalk in front of The Clipper office during the day and even on the yellow double solid line on Park Avenue between RBC and Access Credit Union at midnight as a warning: enter at your own peril. She fought with every animal or beast that challenged her. She did not lose.
When her living accommodations changed, she began sleeping at The Clipper with regularity. The first mistake we made was feeding her. She moved in full time around 2011 and set up her operation at 27 Third Street South. A litter box and clean water were provided in exchange for mousing duties, which other property owners appreciated as well. She also, with great frequence, brought in birds, squirrels and rabbits for us as gifts. We accepted them rather than upset her.
Having the run of the street, Queenie knew her way around. She watched for cars and crossed the road when safe to do so. In winter, if she was locked out, she knew which buildings had heaters inside and would wait for doors to open and close to find refuge.
She would go missing for days, only to be found locked inside one of the neighbouring buildings. Going home after 6 p.m. meant the last one leaving the office had to do a quick scan of the businesses, often with her sitting in the window or on a table, trapped until the morning.
She became a local celebrity. When the Beausejour Beautification Committee was putting a mural on the side of the old Beausejour Brokenhead Memorial Arena to celebrate the history of Train Whistle Park, she visited daily. Those involved added her likeness to the painting, immortalizing her in the bottom right hand corner.
Over and over again, social media posts would indicate there was a large grey cat at (insert name of business). Who owned the cat? Should they take her/him to the vet? Inevitably a series of responses would follow that it was “Queenie from The Clipper” and that she was to be left alone, don’t attempt to pick her up, she would make her way back when she felt like it... if she felt like it.
Sometimes people would go so far as to say we should take better care of our “pet”.
The reality is we have always been co-pilots in this relationship. We belonged to her, she did not belong to us.
The second mistake we made was to open our hearts to her. Every staff member at The Clipper was bitten and scratched. She would walk across your keyboard and ruin whatever you were working on without remorse, accidentally send a mass email or lay on the stack of newspapers or flyers you were bundelling for delivery.
Over the last year however, she slowed considerably and did not go outside much. She would sniff the cold air at the door and return back to the warmth. Other cats have begun to hang around outside without fear. Mice and birds have begun to find their way back to Third Street. All things must pass.
As she thinned out with age and her steps became wobbly at times, she would need help to get on the desks or climb on your lap and accept a scratch or rub without conditions... almost as if she liked us. Unfortunately, that routine was interrupted at 4:50 p.m. on Jan. 9. We are heartbroken.
On behalf of The Clipper, we would like to thank all the community members who looked out for Queenie over the years. She was not only loved by her family at this newspaper, but by local business folk and many Beausejour residents who made a point of stopping in to the office specifically to visit with her.
We would like to also express our gratitude for the outstanding and compassionate care provided by the Beausejour Animal Hospital. The reception staff, the technicians and the veterinarians were beyond caring, understanding and supportive of us wanting to keep our nearly 20-year-old girl going for as long as she was willing to fight. Even in her weakened state we were advised we had to sedate Queenie when vet visits were required “for the safety of the staff.”
She was harsh. She was loving. She was magnificent. She will be missed.
Brokenhead reveals new zoning bylaw amendments following hearing opposition
By Mark Buss
An RM of Brokenhead open house in Garson last Wednesday displayed a new series of proposed zoning bylaw changes, three months after council received significant opposition to their initial efforts.
On Jan. 7, approximately 55 people attended the open house at the Garson Community Centre where they could review and provide feedback while planners and members of council were on hand to try and answer questions regarding new changes to proposed Zoning Bylaw Amendment No. 2269-25.
Municipal zoning bylaws regulate and control the use of development of land and buildings within the limits of the RM and should be adjusted every few years.
At a hearing held on Sept. 28 in Beausejour, community planner Michael Blatz advised the initial proposed changes were to fix previous errors and to also increase housing supply in the RM by introducing mixed residential-commercial development, detached secondary suites and tiny homes – permanent dwellings between 400 and 800 square feet. Other proposed changes included reducing building lots for R1-S single unit residential and duplexes from 7,500 to 5,500 square feet. Two new proposed types of land use include event facilities and short-term rentals while efforts were being made to allow a property in the St. Ouens area to be zoned seasonal for trailers and tents.
Approximately 275 people were in attendance Sept. 28 with the overwhelming majority opposed to the changes. Approximately 400 objections were raised in letters and petitions identifying concerns.
Reviewing the feedback, council and administration went back to work with Blatz to create new amendments, which were displayed on story boards in Garson last week. While the open house was not a requirement, council felt it important to add this extra meeting so people could review the latest proposal.
One of the main issues in the initial bylaw proposal involved an effort to reduce minimum lot sizes and allow denser housing developments across established neighbourhoods, primarily in the LUD of Tyndall-Garson. In the new amendments displayed Jan. 7, all references to ‘tiny homes’ was removed with the minimum sized home remaining at 800 square feet.
While additional standards are proposed for single unit residential lots where a developer can interject up to 30 per cent of all R1 land in a development to be of R1-S designation with no more than 2 R1-S properties side by side, duplex lots reverted back to in-force rules and 7,500 square feet.
The event facilities land use was removed and the St. Ouens-area rezoning for trailers and tents was also removed.
From his perspective, Blatz said people at the open house were most interested in the status of the proposed rezoning in St. Ouens and Garson, as well as the proposed introduction of the R1-S zone.
“Overall, I’d say reaction to the changes was mixed to positive,” Blatz said. “Although many people were relieved that the RM heard their concerns and made adjustments accordingly, others still have concerns about the amendment.”
Ashley Buller of Tyndall said it was good to see that changes were ultimately made, but that happened because residents showed up, spoke out and stood together. She added direction from the province to remove or alter certain zoning areas also played a role.
“Without that level of community opposition, the outcome would have looked very different,” Buller said. “I am so proud of our community for coming together.”
She added there are still some gaps.
“Many in the community remain very concerned about multi-unit development throughout the RM and the ability for those projects to move forward as infill through simple zoning changes at council and developer whim in the future,” she said. “That’s an issue that deserves stronger safeguards.”
Brokenhead Coun. Luke Ingeberg agreed with Blatz that those in attendance found some solace in the changes and with Buller that there is still concern with multi-unit development as a whole.
“We have to have a zoning bylaw. It’s not like we can’t have one. We have to have land IDd for development in the future,” Ingeberg said. “Every proposed development goes through a full circulation of provincial agencies for feedback, and any concerns people have can come up at the time of application.”
Ingeberg said he was surprised with the low turnout.
“I was disappointed. We had a lot of opposition to the bylaw, and we went back to rethink this,” he said. “It would have been nice to see more people. We had 400 objectors and 50-plus in attendance. It we got at least half of the objectors out we would have gotten a better feeling of what the people think.”
Now that the open house is complete, council will review the feedback and finalize the changes to the zoning bylaw. There will be another formal notice and a public hearing do-over where residents can again come forward and comment.
PUB raises Hydro rates more than requested
By Tony Zerucha
Extreme drought conditions, the second worst in 112 years, are to blame for a four per cent increase in Manitoba Hydro rates in 2026.
The Public Utilities Board (PUB) approved the interim rate, which was higher than the 3.5 per cent sought by the utility. The increase affects all customer classes except for Manitoba Hydro’s Diesel Zone.
In its decision, PUB said it opted for the higher increase because of the severe drought, which has left flows into Manitoba Hydro’s watershed at their second-lowest in more than a century. That caused the utility’s projections to shift from forecasted net positive income of $218 million to a $409 million loss.
“In the Board’s view, an increase equal to the legislated rate cap of (four per cent) is necessary to protect the financial health of the utility,” the PUB decision reads in part, with four per cent the maximum increase allowed by The Manitoba Hydro Act.
“The interim rate increase approved in this order is higher than what the utility requested for the 2025/26 fiscal year, but the Public Utilities Board is of the view that the increase is necessary, on an urgent basis, to protect the financial health of Manitoba Hydro in light of the current drought.”
PUB added it will issue a final rate for the 2025-26 fiscal year and the remaining two years of this rate period early in 2026. It noted that the current-year loss has increased Manitoba Hydro’s annual financing expense by $30 million for the next decade. At a 3.5 per cent hike, Manitoba Hydro will fall far short of its three cash-flow-based targets.
The PUB decision states that in light of the drought-related financial deterioration, Manitoba Hydro acknowledged during the recently completed hearing, that it would need as much of a rate increase as it can get,
“Nonetheless, the utility has not updated its rate request and continues to ask for a 3.5 per cent rate increase effective Jan. 1, 2026. Manitoba Hydro advised that, in making this decision, it considered affordability as well as the possibility of water flows rebounding relatively quickly.”
The Board stated it remains mindful of its mandate to balance the interests of ratepayers against the financial health of the utility. Manitoba Hydro’s residential rates are currently the second-lowest in Canada, but energy poverty continues to be a serious problem in the province.
“However, while the Board shares the concerns about affordability expressed by several interveners, it must respond to the serious nature of the drought. The Board notes that the purpose of interim orders is to be able to respond to situations of an urgent nature that are outside the utility’s control. In this case, urgent interim rate relief is justified.”
Hydro operating Seven Sisters spillway
Manitoba Hydro is advising resource users, snowmobilers and the general public the Seven Sisters Generating Station began operating the spillway last week.
As of Jan. 8, Manitoba Hydro began releasing water through the spillway, which will increase slush concerns, potential thin ice and open water to McArthur Falls Generating Station.
As a result, extreme caution is advised for any travel on the waterway between Seven Sisters and McArthur Falls. Increases in flows/spill after a river has frozen may create hazardous ice conditions such as heavy slush and hanging ice at shorelines, as well as thinner ice.
Sections of the Winnipeg River that are currently ice covered between Seven Sisters Generating Station and the PR 211 Bridge are at high risk of becoming unstable and breaking up as spill is released. This also includes ice covered areas downstream of Whitemouth Falls.
Due to frequent and unpredictable changes in water levels and flow conditions, the waterways and ice near hydroelectric facilities and water control structures can be dangerous to the public. This is especially true in the areas immediately upstream and downstream of the facilities and control structures.
The public is encouraged to obey all warning signs, stay away from any open water, keep to marked trails and avoid the water’s edge as banks and rocks can be unstable or slippery.
Winterhawks start 2026 with wins
By Tony Zerucha
The Springfield Winterhawks returned from a month-long break with a pair of wins over the weekend.
On Jan. 3, Dexter Kuczek and Mathieu Moreira registered a goal and assist each to propel the Winterhawks to a 4-3 win over the Ile des Chenes Northstars. Newcomer MacKenzie Dwyer opened the scoring at 7:55 of the first period, with help from Conner Grunsten. Kuczek made it 2-0 midway through the frame, with Trevor Weimer earning an assist.
After the Northstars scored at 14:01, Kuczek and Adam Blocker set up Moreira at 18:58. Former Eastman Select Bryce Warkentine replied for Ile des Chenes at 19:56 to make the score 3-2 heading into intermission.
The Northstars drew even at 11:29, but the stalemate didn’t last long as Braeden Binda scored the game-winner at 14:12. Moreira and Jakob Hofer earned the helpers.
Springfield won the shot derby 42-32 to make a winner of Steve Christie.
The Winterhawks flew back home to face the Notre Dame Hawks on Jan. 4. Sniper Adam Hughesman opened the scoring 1:27 into the contest. Grunsten and Brody Welsh registered assists. Less than a minute later, Matt Lamoureux set up Kuczek to make it 2-0.
Notre Dame added a late score at 19:45 to make it 2-1 after 20 minutes. Hawk Roux Bazin scored the next two goals to give the visitors a 3-2 lead early in the third. Springfield quickly replied, as Moreira tied it at 3:19 and set up Hughesman at 8:08. Keith Grondin added an empty-netter to make the final 5-3.
Springfield outshot Notre Dame 33-29. Ashton Howarth was strong in net.
At 6-5 and 14 points, Springfield occupies third place in a tightly-packed SEMHL. They’re five points out of first place, and three teams are within three points of the Winterhawks.
With only seven games left before the playoffs, Winterhawks general manager Steve Gault is still adding to the roster. His latest find is Dwyer, who brings 117 games of ECHL experience to Springfield.
The Winterhawks host the first-place Winkler Royals in a key battle on Jan. 10 at 8 p.m.
Rise in QR code phishing anticipated
By Tony Zerucha
QR codes are making a dramatic comeback, which means criminals will seek to exploit the technology for illegal gains. It’s happening so often that it has a name – “quishing”.
Short for QR code phishing, quishing, sees fraudsters seeking to direct traffic to their own websites. Once there, they steal money and personally identifiable information like Social Insurance numbers and passwords.
Quishing is the logical next step as criminals keep up with technology, Uniqode co-founder and CTO Ravi Pratap said recently. Uniqode’s technology allows companies to issue safe, company-branded QR codes.
It started with email. Once everyone got a Hotmail or Yahoo email address, criminals quickly figured out they could send mass emails with a sympathy-garnering story that would trick people out of their money. Because it was easy (and cheap) to send thousands of emails at a time, only a few had to work for it to be profitable.
Next, they capitalized on the ubiquity of cell phones by sending massive amounts of text messages. Now, QR codes are added to the mix.
Whatever technology is used, the pattern is the same. The goal is to get folks to click on a fraudulent link. That’s the method scammers used when mimicking the former Sunova Credit Union website a few years ago.
Pratap has some advice to protect consumers from quishing. When considering whether or not to scan a QR code, think about how you initially received it. Did you request information, or was it randomly sent to you? If you didn’t request it, seriously consider deleting it.
Before a phone scans a QR code, it often displays the destination address. Examine it closely. If it’s a random grouping of letters and numbers, that’s a bad sign. Legitimate sites often have their brand name in the destination site. Look closely at that too, as some fraudulent sites may be one or two characters off a legitimate site.
“You should think twice about whether you should open it up,” Pratap said. “I recommend not submitting Social Insurance numbers, email addresses and phone numbers on websites that are coming from a QR code whose domain you don’t know.”
Lions donate to LdB Minor Hockey
By Mark T. Buss
The Lac du Bonnet Lions Club made a significant contribution to local youth recently with a donation of $10,000 to the Lac du Bonnet Minor Hockey Association (LDBMHA).
At LDBMHA’s ‘Lightning Days’ on Dec. 14, Lions Greg Short, Mel Mitchell and Mike Roy provided the funding support for the purchase of new jerseys as the previous sets were at end of life. They will also be purchasing U7 dividers so they can host more events, fundraising for U9 rink dividers, fund a trial run of a new skating program and more.
“Donations like these show the continued support and commitment from local organizations. It also shows the importance hockey plays in not only entertaining kids but teaching them some fundamental lessons the game provides,” said LDBMHA president Adam Gorrie. “Just because we are a small minor hockey association, it doesn’t mean we can’t do big things for our young players.”
Lightning Days is a scheduled event when all the Lac du Bonnet Lightning teams play home games on one day. Organizers do draws, mini games, 50/50 and give our players appreciation for being a part of the organization and playing hockey. There are currently 64 youths registered in LDBMHA.
Gorrie said the organization is always looking for ways to raise funds so they can provide the best possible experience for all their players and improve their skill sets and help them grow as individuals. He said Lac du Bonnet Minor Hockey Association VP Jay Griffith was in talks with the Lions Club for quite some time and attended one of their meetings to present a request for donations. The response was overwhelming to donate to minor hockey.
“We are forever grateful for this donation from the Lions Club,” Gorrie said.
Lac du Bonnet Lions President Greg Short said the organization supports all kinds of people and groups, but noted the movement has a fondness for the betterment of children and they are always looking to promote efforts involving young people.
He noted Griffith’s presentation was a good one and the Lions approved the funding request unanimously.
“We’ve raised a lot of money in recent years and we feel the need to give it back. The decision in this case was fairly quick,” Short said. “Hockey is pretty expensive for some families and we thought we would even the playing field so these kids and their families can have new uniforms.”
Walls stepping back from Sabres football
By Tony Zerucha
Springfield’s football community is preparing to say goodbye to its founder Tom Walls, who is stepping down this summer.
Walls is technically taking a one-year leave of absence from a teaching position with the Winnipeg School Division, who he jokingly thanked for allowing him to spend so many workday hours on football. He and wife Shandy are moving to Colombia after she accepted employment there.
Walls said he’ll stay involved through the spring gym season, and will assist incoming head coach Shane Lucier with planning and play development remotely during the season. In meetings with coaches, players and parents, everyone wished to maintain a similar structure.
Those meetings, while hard, were important for everyone. This includes some seniors who need consistency as they pursue university or junior careers.
“There were two things I needed to do in those meetings,” Walls said. “I needed to let them know I wasn’t leaving them for another team; it was an opportunity for my family, and it was going to be okay.”
Walls had lived in Springfield for three years when Shandy looked in their yard and told him they could erect some goalposts and hold kicking camps.
“I said we can do more than that,” Walls said.
The Sunrise Coyotes program was founded in 2014. The early years brought predictable struggles on the field; some gave up. But others persisted, including a girls’ team that won three championships in four years.
“That showed us it could work here,” Walls said.
That was followed by a powerhouse bantam team that solidified a winning environment. Players and families stuck around. Younger siblings signed up; a program was born.
Equally important was what was happening on the sidelines. Walls and coaches like Ken Clegg, Val Medved, Marcell Pelland and Ian Hickey began coaching peewee together. That was 12 years ago – they’re still together today.
“The coaches really like being around each other. That brings stability,” Walls said.
The high school football come to Springfield in 2019. To date, six seasons have brought five banners to the school, along with a year-round program that keeps the players engaged.
“Year-round programs like we have at SCI, you don’t find them at other schools except for that big ones like Oak Park and Dakota,” Walls said. “They’re huge schools. We have between 560-580 kids.”
Walls said his three proudest life accomplishments are his marriage, kids and Springfield’s football program. The latter has allowed him two blend in the other two. Football wouldn’t have happened without Shandy, who raised funds when few were to be had. Tommy Jr. was an award-winning Sabres pivot who played American college football. Daughter Aiden was active in merchandising.
The winning was nice, and Walls communicated that to his players. More importantly, Walls was reminded of the joy in the process; every team building event, every practice, brought people together. Children were growing into responsible adults.
“The real joy has been in the relationships with the players, coaches and parents,” Walls said. “What these programs teach young people is rarer and rarer in society: not giving up when things get hard, selflessness, and eventual reward over immediate gratification.”
That message has endured, as Walls saw in a recent alumni game. Two original 2019 players brought their own children, one only three months old.
“He thought so much of the program and that game that he wanted his wife and kid to be there,” Walls said.
Walls also joked that when alumni bring their kids, perhaps it’s time for fresh blood to patrol the sidelines. He then got serious when recalling players share stories of substance abuse and suicidal thoughts; they trusted him enough to share their innermost fears.
“One father told me we changed his son’s life for the better; that’s the kind of thing that sticks with you,” Walls said.
Walls has several irons in the fire, including a book that could soon be published. He’s also promoting professional development services to teachers and coaches in South America.
And Walls wouldn’t be Walls without some football. He’ll be coaching the Medellin Raptors.
Is South American football different than what Walls is used to? Canadian football isn’t what a grinning Walls was used to when he initially came north.
“Everywhere else has four downs, and they don’t give you a point for kicking it through the end zone,” Walls laughed. “I’m going back to my roots.”
Smith headed to Manitoba Games
By Tony Zerucha
Oakbank curler Sierra Smith is packing her bags for Thompson, where she will join Team Eastman at the Manitoba Winter Games from March 4-7.
Smith and Interlake partner Jake Kowalchuk earned their spots by winning a mixed doubles curling regional qualifier at the Springfield Curling Club in Dugald on Jan. 3.
Smith and Kowalchuk took early control in the opening game by scoring two in each of the first two ends on the way to an 11-2 victory. In the clinching second draw, Smith and Kowalchuk broke open a 1-1 deadlock with three in the third end and five in the fifth to win another 11-2 decision. This one was called after six ends.
The partners gelled quickly, after only meeting in September. After a couple of practices, they entered the January regional qualifier.
“Those games were the first games we have ever played together,” Smith said. “We formed a team (after) he reached out to me. We have known each other for around three of four years, as we faced each other in inter-club curling.”
Smith said mixed doubles is different from traditional curling formats in several ways. For starters, there are only two players on each team. Teams throw just five rocks per end, compared to the usual eight.
“One player throws the first and the fifth rock which was me. The other player throws the middle three which was Jake,” Smith explained. “For the game, there’s always two rocks that are in play. The team that has hammer has the rock placed back four foot and the team that doesn’t have hammer has their rock placed as a centre guard, usually mid.”
Athletes between the ages of 10-17 will compete in 12 sports over seven days: ringette, archery, speed skating, futsal, alpine skiing, curling, gymnastics, figure skating, cross country skiing, wrestling, badminton and hockey.
Sport Manitoba will release the complete Eastman team roster at the end of January. Eastman includes much of the Interlake and communities north of the Trans Canada Highway.
January 22, 2026
Lights, camera, CPTC action
Beausejour snowmobile race track, drivers to be used in film
By Andrea Geary
Snowmobile racing is coming to the big screen with local racers and Beausejour’s power toboggan racetrack to be featured.
The casting crew for the new feature film Northern Lights sent out a call for experienced racers and enlisted Canadian Power Toboggan Championships president Jared Black’s help in finding people and booking the Co-op Community Complex for filming.
“I think it’s great,” Black said. “There’s a lot of history and heritage surrounding snowmobiling in Beausejour.”
According to a synopsis, Northern Lights is a gritty, coming-of-age drama set in rural Manitoba. It tells the story of an 18-year-old girl who wants to become a professional snowmobile racer and leave her small town.
While filming will also take place in St. Jean, Man. and on snowmobile trails near the community, Black expects the crew to film racing action segments at the CPTC race track within the next few weeks.
The half-mile oval track allows racers to exceed speeds of over 170 km/h and can accommodate a field of up to 18 racers.
He added that they will also plan to return for the championships on March 7 and 8 to capture crowd scenes.
Norm Chura, a longtime racer from Anola is one of the local snowmobilers whose racing experience will be showcased.
“I was asked to participate,” he said, adding that he isn’t entirely sure what his role will entail but he’s open to the new experience of being in a movie.
“I wasn’t expecting this at my age,” Chura joked.
Former Brokenhead resident Matt Szalai, now living in Cook’s Creek, also has many years of snowmobile racing experience under his belt. He said he’d actually decided to take a break from competition to help his son gain experience. However, he agreed to be part of Northern Lights.
“I’ll know more soon but I think I’m to be a stunt double for one of the main characters,” he said.
Black said he hopes that the movie generates public interest in snowmobile racing and will benefit the CPTC especially with its 65th anniversary happening in 2027.
“It’s the longest running power toboggan event in the world,” Black said.
Town of LdB creates new admin position
By Simon Ducatel
The creation of a new administrative assistant position at the Town of Lac du Bonnet is intended to provide accounting support to address identified deficiencies.
CAO Marley Seymour said council became aware of administrative gaps through a combination of internal reviews conducted by administration, discussions with the town’s external auditors and ongoing compliance requirements communicated by provincial departments.
She said these matters were identified over time as part of regular operational reviews and as new or evolving provincial requirements were assessed.
“This position forms part of council’s effort to strengthen financial controls, administrative oversight and long-term planning,” Seymour said. “Administration brought these items forward to council as part of its responsibility to advise on organizational capacity and compliance risks.”
Per background information outlined in a recent council meeting report, the addition of a position similar to the approved role had previously been presented in 2024 during budget deliberations.
The report states it was decided at that time that more planning was required for the position including job description, recruitment plan, and council wanted the permanent CAO to have input into this decision. The report adds the position was also determined to be justified as the current organization model already had some of the duties allocated to a contract employee.
Currently, the town is deficient in numerous administrative aspects required by the province such as audits, accessibility plans, asset management plans, housing needs assessment, gas tax reporting, bylaw and policy updates for example. This new position would allow for more time to be focused by the CAO and the assistant CAO on addressing these deficiencies.
The position’s primary roles and responsibilities will include processing accounts payable and receivable, payroll, utility accounts, providing backup and continuity for the front reception desk, as well as offering administrative assistance to the public works and utility departments.
“This position will free up time for the ACAO and the CAO to focus on more targeted initiatives and strategic goals of council such as asset management, completing audits and audit requirements, election prep, project management, bylaw and policy updates, (and) accessibility,” the report states.
Regarding the deficiencies that were identified, Seymour noted it “is important to clarify that this does not indicate non-compliance in all areas, but rather highlights areas where the town has limited capacity to keep pace with increasingly complex reporting, planning and legislative requirements” while maintaining day-to-day municipal operations.
“Council’s decision reflects a proactive approach to strengthening administrative capacity and ensuring long-term compliance and sustainability,” she stated.
The need for this new position also comes on the heels of the town borrowing almost $900,000 to pay down an accumulated financial deficit revealed in the 2022 municipal audit and pay it back over a 10-year term. The shortfall stemmed from past decisions and operational practices by previous council and administration involving inaccurate budgeting, purchases of non-budgeted items, overspending on capital projects, and unexpected repairs to municipal assets.
The wage for the new position is estimated between $70,000 to $75,000 and will reportedly be covered by a reallocation of budget funds resulting in the full annual salary costs being borne by current taxation rates.
“As such, no increase to the current tax rate is anticipated,” Seymour said.
Such positions are not uncommon in municipal offices, with communities such as Pinawa, Powerview-Pine Falls and Beausejour.
Brokenhead changes bylaw, withholding councillor’s pay claiming duties not met
By Mark T. Buss
A Brokenhead councillor who has been off the job since October for health reasons could potentially not be paid his monthly stipend until he returns to work in what council is calling a municipal cost saving measure.
At the Jan. 13 municipal meeting, Deputy Reeve Luke Ingeberg and Couns. Brett Steffes and Jack Kowalchuk voted to withhold Coun. Sean Michaels’ January stipend of more than $2,200. Michaels and Reeve Brad Saluk were absent.
According to Ingeberg, Michaels submitted a doctor’s note in October asking for medical leave until the end of November. A second doctor’s note was submitted to the municipal office in late November asking for medical leave until the end of January. He said council has had virtually no contact with Michaels since.
Michaels has been absent from attending regular municipal and committee of the whole meetings as well as council committee meetings since then. His municipal counterparts allege he is also not participating in council group emails and correspondence, leaving them to wonder when or if he is planning to return before his term runs out in the fall.
The absence has created an issue as the other members of council have to cover for Michaels’ committees. While the councillors filling in do not receive additional pay, Michaels continues to collect his.
As council is responsible for taxpayer funds, Ingeberg said a review of the RM’s indemnity bylaw revealed it had no reference to absence. In December, council gave first reading to Indemnity Bylaw 2273-25, which states they have the discretion to withhold a member’s indemnity by way of resolution if they are of the opinion the individual did not discharge their duties as a member of council.
Second and third reading were done at last week’s meeting.
“There was nothing in the bylaw that councillors need to attend meetings to get paid,”
Ingeberg said. “This is not a matter of one meeting, but if you are on leave and away from your council duties, you will not get paid.”
Prior to voting, council gave the gallery an opportunity to comment. Some had concerns that this type of ruling would be left up to council and if they liked the person, with another believing the matter was a case of bullying.
“It’s not a matter of liking someone or not,” Coun. Brett Steffes said, surprised by the comment. “We are not going to give taxpayer dollars to someone who is not doing their duty. If they come back tomorrow, they start getting paid again.”
According the Manitoba Municipal Act, if a member of council misses three consecutive meetings without a prior motion of approval from council, they are subject to disqualification – something that has occurred in North Eastman in the past.
Ingeberg repeatedly advised the gallery that council had no desire to remove Michaels from his democratically elected position. To back that up, council voted to approve his December and January absences, which ended that debate.
With Indemnity Bylaw 2273-25 in place, council later voted to withhold Michaels’ stipend.
“I’d like to know where he sits and when he’s coming back,” Steffes said. “We’ve reached out to him several times and we haven’t had a response.”
Saluk said when he was first elected reeve in 2014, changes were made to the indemnities bylaw, going from billing per meeting or event to a flat rate as council of the day let things get out of hand with individual charges, at a significant cost to the RM.
A decade later, he said the reverse has happened in Michaels’ situation where he is being paid but, in council’s view, the work is not being done.
“We changed the way we do things because of the fiasco that was before us where people were charging for three half-day meetings in the same day and whatever else,” Saluk said. “We did not look into what if someone was sick or could not carry on with their duties, should they get paid? If you have a job where you get sick leave, this is a totally different thing. I divvied up Sean’s committees to other councillors, who are picking up the slack and going on his behalf.”
“My point of view is if you have a doctors note and you need the time, you need the time. If there are issues, there are issues. Take the time that you need to get better,” Saluk said. “But we need to pull up our socks and do the work for the municipality until he comes back, if he comes back, because honestly we don’t know.”
Reaching out to The Clipper, Michaels said while he has not been going to municipal council meetings, he feels he has been working behind the scenes as much as he can, including texting and phoning constituents, doing cybersecurity training in Winnipeg and attending the odd committee meeting like the Garson Community Centre in December. He said he has also agreed to help clean up and move chairs after the Tyndall curling bonspiel and is willing to pick up the meat platter for an upcoming event at the hall.
“I’m reading emails every day, I’m taking this training... I try so hard,” Michaels said, becoming emotional. “I’m still serving my constituents as I always have.”
Regarding a lack of correspondence with council, Michaels claims he has responded to every email sent his way, with the last coming from administration on Dec. 11.
“I haven’t been asked to respond to anything.”
He claims has also kept in contact with Kowalchuk, saying they went for a three-hour breakfast on Jan. 9 where they made it over to the Garson Arena to look at the new clock and reviewed the state of several gravel roads in the municipality.
Asked if he has thought about resigning from council, Michaels was adamant that he would not.
“I’m coming back,” Michaels said. “I’m coming back and bring on term six.”
Saluk said a person is elected to public office to make hard decisions on behalf of taxpayers and the municipality at large. If the individual is not attending council meetings, not voting on municipal matters and not engaged in the decision making process, they are not fulfilling their duties.
He added being on council can be a difficult job, especially for someone like Michaels, who is a people pleaser and has been the smiling face of council for five terms.
“When it comes to something controversial or having to say ‘no’ to somebody, that’s the biggest problem with this job; having to tell people that you’re friends with that this is not the way it goes when you sit in the chair and you take the oath,” Saluk said. “You just can’t go and shake hands and say hi... it’s not enough.”
Sunrise Kindergarten registration Jan. 26-30
A Parents planning to send their young children to school this fall will once again have to take the first step in that process in person or online.
The Sunrise School Division’s Kindergarten and Grade 1 beginner registrations for the 2026-2027 school year will be held from Jan. 26-30 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. unless otherwise stated or online at www.sunrisesd.ca under ‘Parents, Registration’.
To be eligible for Kindergarten, children must be five years of age on or before Dec. 31, 2026. Children heading into Grade 1 must be six years of age on or before Dec. 31, 2026. Children previously enrolled in Kindergarten classes do not need to be re-registered for Grade 1.
Proof of age must be presented at time of registration with a birth certificate being the preferred document.
While all Sunrise schools with elementary students offer English programs, English and French immersion options are available at Beausejour, Dugald and Powerview schools. Oak Bank Elementary offers programs in English and English/Ukrainian.
Entry into the French immersion and English/Ukrainian bilingual programs are open to all children of Kindergarten and Grade 1 age who possess little or no knowledge of the French or Ukrainian language, but who wish to become bilingual by learning French or Ukrainian as a second language.
For after hours in person registration options at individual schools, École Beausejour will be open until 7 p.m. on Jan. 26. On Jan. 28, Centennial in Lac du Bonnet will be open until 6 p.m. while École Dugald, Oak Bank Elementary and Gillis School in Tyndall will be open until 7 p.m.
Contact Anola, Whitemouth, Hazelridge and École Powerview Schools for extended hours.
Wolf FM is Sagkeeng First Nation’s station
“The greatest station northeast of Peg City.”
That is just one of the awesome promos you will hear when you listen to 102.7 Wolf FM in the Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation.
If you do take the time to tune in, you will quickly hear why that claim has been made.
When it comes to ‘rez radio’ Wolf FM stands out, featuring slick production, along with the latest community news, weather forecasts, music, and weekly bingos with huge jackpots!
At the helm is Ruben Bunn, who is literally the Wolf’s one man show. Bunn has been a broadcaster for more than 25 years, but he says coming home to The Wolf and Sagkeeng in 2015, has been the highlight of his career. He calls his studio space his sanctuary.
First Nation radio stations can also be described as sanctuaries for their listeners. They are often a connecting point for people to hear their language, learn about community news and gatherings, and have some laughs!
The Southern Chief’s Organization (SCO) send a huge miigwetch to Bunn for his tireless efforts to inform, entertain and connect the people of Sagkeeeng.
To hear Sagkeeng’s best music mix, visit listen.strea mon.fm/wolffm or of tune your FM dial to 102.7 FM.
Fuhl remains deputy mayor
By Tony Zerucha
Even though nobody seemed to want the role of deputy mayor, that didn’t stop some council members from being upset they weren’t asked.
Mayor Pat Therrien re-appointed Coun. Glen Fuhl to the post. Fuhl, the only member of council to be re-elected in 2022, has served in the position since then.
Mayors often rotate councillors through the deputy mayor post on one-year terms.
Coun. Mark Miller, who said he wasn’t campaigning for the job, accused Therrien of reneging on a campaign promise to rotate councillors through the role.
Therrien said he offered the position to Coun. Melinda Warren, who declined.
Miller accused Therrien of “playing politics” by not considering him or Coun. Andy Kuczynski.
“You don’t play a fair game, and I’m disgusted,” Miller said. “I’m disappointed, and thank goodness October ’26 is coming sooner than you think.”
Kuczynski said he would have likely declined if offered the chance to be deputy mayor.
“I don’t think I could work with you,” Kuczynski told Therrien.
Council voted 3-2 to allow Fuhl to continue with Miller and Kuczynski opposed.
249 Air Cadets host survival exercise
By Morgan Maguet
The Royal Canadian Air Cadets Squadron 249 continues to complete one of their most important events every year.
The cadets participate in field training exercise designed to test and strengthen survival and teamwork skills. The outdoor event gave staff and cadets the chance to learn together in a wilderness setting.
The field training exercise is a cornerstone of the Royal Canadian Air Cadet program, emphasizing self-reliance, teamwork and problem-solving. Lessons learned in the bush translate directly into confidence and leadership skills that cadets can use in school, work and community life.
This year, CO Capt. Cindy Buss led the cadets through the training exercise on her property in the RM of Brokenhead just east of Beausejour. A total of 46 cadets and four staff members took part in the training, making for a successful and educational
group event.
“We have a large amount of wild bush habitat and a training area that works very well for the program,” Buss said.
The exercise covered a wide range of practical survival skills.
“Cadets are taught how to build a shelter, how to put up a modular tent, how to utilize plant life, fire making, the use of a knife, and how to make survival knots and lashes,” she said. “This year, we also had a special course on trapping and hands-on work with furs.”
The cadets also had individual meal packs (IMP) to eat during the training, which consist of a packet that is boiled and ready to eat – a process commonly used by survivalists and Armed Forces members.
It was a learning experience for everyone involved, regardless of skill level or previous experience. For newer members, it was especially enlightening.
“Not every cadet has had a camping experience, so for some this was the first time sleeping outside in a tent,” said Buss.
The group also had to contend with unpredictable fall weather.
“It’s tough to learn when wet, cold and windy, but otherwise they had a great experience,” said Buss.
The annual field training exercise is a required part of the national Air Cadet program and helps participants build self-reliance and confidence. Optional spring training sessions allow cadets to expand their knowledge in specialized areas such as navigation, wilderness survival and aviation.
In addition to field training, members of Squadron 249 are busy with several community and learning events. They participate in Remembrance Day services across the region, orienteering, a mess dinner and glider training in Gimli in the spring.
“We also conduct a range day, sports evenings and regular training every Wednesday evening. Some members also have the opportunity to take a Junior Ground School program to encourage them to further their interest in flying,” said Buss.
Squadron 249 has been offering education, mentorship and adventure opportunities to youth in the Beausejour area for many decades and continue to welcome new members from across North Eastman including Lac du Bonnet, Pinawa, Whitemouth, Garson, Tyndall, Anola, Dugald and Oakbank.
“The Air Cadet program provides citizenship, leadership, self-discipline and an opportunity for youth to meet others interested in flying and being better citizens in the community,” said Buss.
Chinese tariffs on canola being reduced
By Andrea Geary
While the price of seed and other crop inputs remain high for Canadian canola growers, access to a vital market will soon be restored.
A recent Canadian trade delegation led by Prime Minister Mark Carney was successful in negotiating a reduction in China’s tariffs on Canadian canola seed and meal imports. Brokenhead Reeve Brad Saluk sees this as a positive start to a new season.
“With the tariffs coming off, the season is definitely off to a better start,” he said.
Last August, China set tariffs of close to 76 per cent on Canadian canola seed and 100 per cent on canola meal imports. The new trade agreement includes a drop of 60 percent on the seed tariff and complete removal of the tariff on meal imports as of March 1.
China is the largest buyer of Canadian canola meal and second largest for seed. According to information from the Canadian Canola Growers Association, the value of Canada’s canola and canola products exported to China was approximately $5 billion in 2024. The prediction for 2025 sales is less than half that amount due to the tariffs that were set in response to Canada’s 100 per cent levy on Chinese electric vehicle imports.
Saluk said his farm experienced severe drought conditions for most of the 2025 growing season with just two inches of rain stretched across the summer months then rainfall coming close to harvest time. Dry soil conditions hampered canola germination and what did emerge was attacked by flea beetles, requiring extra spraying.
“Last season was worse than I even thought it would be,” he said, adding that he ended up with about a third of the yield compared to what was harvested in other areas.
Despite last year’s poor outcome, Saluk said he’s keeping canola in rotation with wheat, barley, soybeans and possibly corn or sunflowers.
The cost of canola seed remains high at about $800 a bag, but Saluk said the moisture his soil received last fall should at least help get this year’s crop off to a better start.
“We still need adequate moisture. We still need everything to play out.”
When interviewed, Saluk was on his way to the Ag Days in Brandon and anticipating hearing the latest forecasts for crop prices and market conditions.
Comets come back to down Falcons
By Tony Zerucha
Four goals in the final 10 minutes gave the Beausejour Comets a thrilling, 4-3 win over the Lundar Falcons on Jan. 17.
With Lundar up 4-0 midway through the third period, Jaedys Dancyt got the Comets on board with a power-play goal at 10:01. Tyler Nault earned the lone assist. Vaughn Senebald followed that up at 13:45 with a shorthanded score. His eighth of the season was assisted by Tanner Amos.
Amos wasn’t finished. At 14:37, he teamed up with Lavery Melsted to set up Merrick
Hucul’s power-play tally. With only 61 ticks left, Dancyt scored his second of the night to give the Comets the win. Melsted and Jaiden Reeb helped out.
Credit Falcon goalie Dylan Leclair with keeping the game close. He made 46 saves.
Sawyer Abraham made 17 stops for the Comets.
The victory over Lundar gave the Comets an eight-point lead over the St. Malo Warriors ahead of the final regular-season match-up between the two teams on Jan. 20. Results were unavailable at press time.
On Jan. 13, Merrick Hucul scored twice and Easton Gaffray had a three-point night as the Comets downed the North Winnipeg Satelites 7-4.
Hucul scored twice while Gaffray, Dancyt, Senebald, Nikolas Bear and newcomer Owen Lourenco registered singles. Goaltenders Alex Cavanagh got the start and the win, but split time with Abraham.
Beausejour hosts the La Broquerie Habs on Jan. 23 at 8 p.m. Following that contest, they have five regular-season games remaining.
The Comets are tied with the Falcons for the most power-play opportunities at 116.
Their 25 man-advantage goals are second to St. Malo’s 28, while their 21.6 percentage is fourth. The penalty killing needs work, as the 79.4 rate is second-worst.
Job Peters is tied with St. Malo’s Keston Worley for the league scoring lead with 32 points. Despite playing only 12 games, Comet Evan Groening is tied for the league lead with 20 assists. Groening’s 26 points are good for 10th spot, but his 2.2 points per game are by far the best rate in the league.
Peters sits fifth with 15 goals and 1.5 points per game and sixth with 17 apples. Cavanagh leads the league with 10 wins and sits third with a 2.69 goals-against average. Abraham is tied for third with seven wins.
Xtreme bounce Blues
By Tony Zerucha
TWith five games remaining in the HTJHL regular season, the Springfield Xtreme are firmly ensconced in second place with a 19-6 record and 39 points.
Springfield is seven points behind the 23-0 Macdonald Swarm and eight ahead of the third-place Niverville Clippers. Both squads have two games in hand on Springfield.
On Jan. 17, the Xtreme scored three unanswered goals over the final 40 minutes to earn a 4-1 win over the Landmark Blues. Connor Toth and Aidan Osborne paced the attack with two points each.
That pair teamed up to open the scoring at 11:27 of the first period, with Osborne setting up Toth. The Blues tied it six minutes later to make it a 1-1 contest after 20 minutes.
Parker Fazio broke the deadlock 4:41 into the middle frame. Ethan Da Silva chipped in an assist. At 7:05, Osborne and David Hazlitt assisted on Toth’s power-play tally. Chase Janas scored an unassisted insurance tally at 11:44 of the third period to cap the scoring.
Springfield outshot the Blues 40-18. Tyson Murdock earned the win.
It was a chippy affair, as five players, three Blues and two Xtreme, were assessed minors and misconducts for hits to the head. Landmark’s Nathan McRae was ejected late in the third period for checking from behind.
This week, the Xtreme have a two-game weekend road trip to Red River and Steinbach. Their next home game is on Jan. 31 at 8 p.m. against Grunthal.
Springfield has scored the fourth-most goals with 104, but their defence is the second -stingiest at 2.64 per game. Their 26.8 per cent power play is second to the Swarm’s 29 per cent, while their penalty killing, at 88.6 per cent, is second to Ste. Anne’s 88.7.
David Hazlitt leads the league with seven power-play goals. Hazlitt, Toth and Fazio are tied for second with three game-winning goals.
Murdock sits second with a 2.13 goals-against average, second to Macdonald netminder Jack Martin’s 2.12. Murdock’s .917 save percentage ranks fifth.
Hughesman leads Winterhawks past Mercs
By Tony Zerucha
QAdam Hughesman’s four-goal, one-assist effort led the Springfield Winterhawks to a 9-3 victory over the Warren Mercs on Jan. 16. The victory solidified Springfield’s second-place grip as the SEMHL season heads toward the playoffs.
Hughesman started early, as his two early goals gave the flock a 2-0 lead after one period. Goalie Steve Christie earned his first point on the second score.
Warren made it 2-1 at 9:30 into the second stanza, but Hughesman completed his hat-trick at 10:11 while linemate Mathieu Moreira earned his third assist on the play, Carter Barley his second. Barley got into the act when he scored the eventual game-winner at 14:52; Hughesman and Trevor Weimer registered helpers.
It was Braeden Binda’s turn 47 seconds later to light the lamp. Mackenzie Dwyer and newcomer Grant Perdonic assisted. Perdonic scored five points in seven games for the MEHL’s Springfield ‘98s back in the 2010-11 campaign.
The Winterhawks outscored the Mercs 4-2 in the third period. Hughesman, Moreira, Connor Barley and Joel Schreyer. Christie added his second and third assists of the night.
Springfield bombarded the Mercs net with 73 shots. Christie turned 22 aside for the win.
Several SEMHL weekend contests were cancelled due to poor weather. Springfield hosts the Carman Beavers on Jan. 24 at 8 p.m. Following that match-up, the Winterhawks have three games remaining, include a special night in Hazelridge on Feb. 1 at 5:30 p.m.
The Winterhawks occupy second place in the SEMHL standings with a 9-5 mark and 20 points. The Winkler Royals are one point ahead with a game in hand, while the Red River Wild are four points behind Springfield, but with two games in hand.
The weekend surge has Hughesman up to sixth in SEMHL scoring with 23 points in 14 games. His 14 goals are tied for first overall. Christie’s 3.12 goals-against average and six wins are second-best in the loop, while his .904 save percentage ranks third. Fellow Winterhawk netminder Ashton Howarth is fourth in goals-against average (3.34) and fifth in save percentage (.897).
. The team that has hammer has the rock placed back four foot and the t
January 29, 2026
AlertMB another tool in the EMO kit
By Tony Zerucha
A new alerting system from Manitoba’s Emergency Measures Organization gives municipalities another tool to protect both lives and property from impending disasters.
The AlertMB program trains municipal officials to access it via the National Public Alerting System. Focused on local events, it would provide smartphone notifications without individuals having to subscribe.
AlertMB’s messages differ from other mass notification systems in several ways, beginning with no opt-in or registration system being required. The notifications interrupt radio, television and digital displays to ensure widespread and immediate publicity.
Broadcast messages must meet specific criteria, including a threat to life and the need to provide life-saving instructions to the public.
Authorized users are trained annually. Only they can contact the Emergency Measures Organization, who decides if the request meets the criteria required to send it on to the National Public Alerting System. Examples of authorized users could include CAOs, fire chiefs, municipal emergency coordinators and law enforcement officials. In some circumstances, authorized personnel may have to coordinate messaging with counterparts in neighbouring municipalities.
On Jan. 20, Springfield council voted unanimously to send staff for the training. The RM’s of Lac du Bonnet, Brokenhead and Alexander will also participate with other communitites noting interest.
Lac du Bonnet emergency coordinator John Fleming said the national Alert program has recently been opened to provinces and territories, with Manitoba encouraging municipalities to take part. Several federal agencies can send alerts, as can the RCMP. AlertMB allows municipalities to provide alerts at a level below federal and provincial thresholds.
Fleming explained that AlertMB can target specific areas because it utilizes cell phone towers, so areas sharing a tower may get each other’s alerts. But because it’s on a 4G network, there are some dead spots where not all areas will receive them.
“You can be in our area and not get AlertMB messaging,” Fleming said. “But it’s another tool in our toolbox to get our information to our residents.”
Fleming said the Connect system notifies everyone who has registered for the system, so its success is predicated on citizens taking a step. With AlertMB, more people in a region will be notified of an emergency.
The importance of effective notification systems was highlighted during last spring’s devastating fires. Fleming said the number of people registering for alerts nearly doubled, reaching 5,700 in the aftermath.
“Before May (2025), it was nice when people registered for Connect,” Fleming said.
“After the fires, my voice changed to, ‘You must register.’”
Changing climate patterns combined with the boreal forest terrain mean it’s not a matter of if, but when the next major fire occurs, Fleming said. That means the focus must be on safety, prevention and effect mitigation. How to prevent a fire from spreading from one subdivision to the next? How can we all prevent fires? Fleming stresses these messages in the dozens of outreach sessions he attends each year.
“All of this can’t be on the government, no government has the money,” Fleming said. “We need everyone’s help.”
Springfield opts out of WMR
Tight deadlines, lack of information leads to RM pulling the plug
By Tony Zerucha
Add the RM of Springfield to the list of towns and municipalities to opt out of the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region (WMR) after council voted 4-1 for the move last week.
Springfield’s council was slated to discuss its annual WMR dues payment of $17,995 on Jan. 20, but Coun. Glen Fuhl added a resolution to opt out entirely. It was seconded by Coun. Mark Miller. Only Mayor Pat Therrien voted in favour of remaining.
“It really comes down to there’s not a lot of information out there at this time,” Fuhl said. “The deadlines I keep hearing are too tight.
“I’m fully in favour of a regional plan, I’m not against that. What I’m against is the plan itself at this time which seems to (offer) no information. We always have the option to opt in when we have more information.”
Fuhl urged the Province of Manitoba to encourage the WMR to be more forthcoming with information, adding that councils need more of it to make informed decisions.
Too many WMR discussions are held in camera, he said.
“Communication is such a big piece of this,” Fuhl said. “If we want this plan to work, we all have to work together and communicate very well with each other.”
Miller said he never believed in the WMR process, which, under the former Progressive Conservative government, he called a “horrendous, horrible exercise.” He said more than $130,000 in dues have provided “zero benefit” for Springfield.
“We’re hearing negative feedback,” Miller said. “There’s not enough communication; it needs to be enhanced. They need to get their act together with that in the first step.”
Coun. Andy Kuczynski said he fears Springfield becoming “locked in” to the WMR for up to a decade if it doesn’t leave now.
“We’re going to be locked if we don’t opt out,” he said. “When the time comes and the benefits for this municipality (are identified) and we have good discussions with residents... if they agree and this is good, we’re probably joining the Capital Region. Otherwise, I hope we stay away from it.”
Coun. Melinda Warren said in the past some residents had to obtain building permits from the City of Winnipeg. While she agrees in principle with regional planning, local autonomy must also be respected.
“We’re not getting any feedback,” Warren said. “I hope the WMR can figure out a way with this new regional plan that other jurisdictions don’t have power over us. There has to be a level playing field. Many residents feel their rights are being taken away.”
Therrien said he respects the democratic process and the right of his fellow council members to vote to opt out, adding that introducing a new planning process in an election year was poor timing. However, he added that opting out comes with a price.
“Time out of the WMR could be a significant loss to the RM,” Therrien said. “We need to be at the table. Every RM pays proportionately to its population. That is relatively small money for an investment in our future. At the end of the day, it’s a dollar for each citizen in the RM of Springfield.”
Therrien took aim at misinformation he said was colouring the regional planning discussion.
“Plan 2050 didn’t take away our autonomy or require passports to move outside of our location,” he said. “It was never linked to the World Economic Forum and other conspiracy theories. That plan was shelved and for good purpose I planned to vote no on that plan.”
Therrien said he had introduced a motion at the WMR board asking for the opt-out date to be postponed until 2027. That would allow for more planning and public discussions so more informed decisions could be made.
“We should never be rushed,” Therrien said. “(The motion) is still before the minister, and we could get a reply in the next couple of days. This is preemptive.
“The concept of regionalization is here to stay. Our federal government, in my opinion, is looking to put money into regions to satisfy distribution on a macro, not a micro scale.”
Therrien said the City of Winnipeg is looking to expand its boundaries. Having a seat at the WMR table allows Springfield to discuss this, and other crucial issues.
“They’re right on our doorstep, so you want to be at the table,” Therrien said. “There’s been misinformation and scare tactics. Unfortunately, some people are listening to that.”
Therrien cited the example of the Cedar Lake Corridor, a long-envisioned connector route that would directly link to the Perimeter and Chief Peguis Trail. WMR table discussions led to the Cedar Lake Corridor being added to those plans, which are presented to federal and provincial funders.
“It’s on the agenda; we’ve been talking about this many times,” Therrien said, adding that public transit plans could see commuting options for Springfield commuters.
“How does on opt out of a plan when not knowing what the plan is?” Therrien asked.
“To do so would be a knee-jerk reaction. I’m confused; this will be to our benefit.”
Springfield joins the City of Selkirk, Village of Dunnottar, and RM’s of Headingley, St. Andrews and West St. Paul in opting out of the WMR. (CHECK)
The WMR did not return requests for comment.
Short-term water solution in Alexander
By Simon Ducatel
After being without running water for over a month, Poplar Avenue Water Co-op taps are once again flowing for the approximately 15 Great Falls properties serviced.
In late November, the water co-op pumphouse was broken into amid extremely cold conditions and the door was left open, causing a suspected freeze-up. Dave Dufour, a certified exterior plumber and supervisor with Dufour Enterprise, said a device called a sonde – which is used to locate underground blockages or collapses – was fed down the line. Ultimately, the source of the problem led to speculation that a portion of the pipe was frozen.
“(Manitoba) Hydro will not let us dig into their dike; can’t blame them. They spent millions of dollars, and the intake does not have a proper permit to be in there,” Dufour said, adding that decades back, people rarely if ever obtained permits and just proceeded to tap in.
“Everyone was just happy to get water,” he said.
Although not a permanent repair, an insulated and heat-traced surface line was run overtop of the dike and tied into a portion of the line approximately 100 feet from the co-op’s pumphouse, he said.
“It’s just a temporary repair,” he said. “When spring comes, who knows what Mother Nature will do with her ice. She could grab that (new) intake and it could be gone.”
Kathleen Sanders’ 80-year-old mother Rose is among those who reside among the Poplar Avenue properties. Sanders said the Poplar Ave Water Co-op in Great Falls was established in 1988 by her father John Sanders Sr. and Lloyd Shindruck and has been run independently for 37 years without government assistance.
Although the waterline originally serviced 17 households, there are now 15, of which four are Manitoba Housing units.
“The water was never meant to be potable; only to use for laundry, bathing, washing and flushing toilets,” she said, adding residents generally get their drinking water from refillable jugs.
There have been few issues over the decades and no previous freeze-ups of this magnitude. But near the end of November, residents noticed water had ceased flowing from their taps. By the time the co-op purchased a replacement pump and had it installed, Sanders said the problem had already metastasized. The most likely prognosis is that since there was no flow while the pump was down, the raw water line ended up frozen.
Why the pumphouse was targeted by burglars in the first place is also subject to speculation. But at roughly the same time in late November, the coin-operated bulk fill station at the water treatment plant in the townsite of Great Falls was also broken into, she recalled.
“They broke the housing where the coins are kept and stole that, and they damaged the building,” she said, adding the water co-op isn’t far away. “Maybe they were looking for tools or a compressor... but there was nothing. Unfortunately they left the door open, which caused all this additional grief.”
She said the water co-op has been coordinating with the Municipality of Alexander, emergency services, Manitoba Water Services Board as well as the Manitoba Water and Wastewater Association. When they built the new Great Falls water treatment plant in 2020, Sanders said the RM had asked residents along Poplar Avenue if they would like to tie into it. However, the residents are either pensioners, families with school-aged children or low-income.
“It wasn’t feasible; nobody could afford to do that,” she said.
Nevertheless, Sanders would like to see the co-op’s distribution line tied into the Alexander water treatment plant, at least as a temporary solution. But the cost of approximately $10,000 per household is prohibitive.
Yet there could potentially be other options to explore. With past experience as the Town of Lac du Bonnet’s public works manager, Sanders noted emergency funds through past dealings with the Manitoba Water Services Board could be available.
“If they’ve given out grants for specific projects and the projects didn’t happen to go ahead, they sometimes have some extra money kicking around,” she said.
Offering parting thoughts, she also suggested Manitoba Housing could play a role in resolving the situation by pitching in to help cover the cost of a more permanent solution.
“If they want to continue to rent out their houses, they have to be able to supply some type of water.”
Alexander Deputy Mayor Mac Kinghorn hopes there might yet be an opportunity to connect the co-op to the new treatment plant.
“To me it would be the logical way to go,” said Kinghorn. “The ideal is hopefully that we can make some headway through the water services board and get that chunk of pipe put in between the water treatment plant and their system quick and get them onto the water system, and then they don’t have to worry about it anymore.”
The only hurdle ahead is the cost.
“Hydro pitched into the water treatment plant to some degree, but I doubt very much that we’ll get any more funding out of them as we make this system go regional,” he said.
Another issue is the municipality is reluctant to open the flood gates to similar requests from other private water co-ops, he said.
“If we are spending money out of municipal funds for it, then basically we’re kind of opening ourselves up to anybody else that may be having a problem with their system,” he said.
“Don’t get me wrong, I really feel for them that they’re having a problem with it, but I mean if it’s a water co-op, then basically co-ops are supposed to run with the deal that they’re putting money away so that they’ve got money available so that when things go wrong, they can deal with it.”
And construction costs aren’t getting any cheaper as time passes.
“The other side of it is, it’s one price now and if you don’t hook up now, then it could be substantially more in the future if you wanted to hook up on it.”
Saluk not running in fall civic elections
By Tony Zerucha
After six terms and 20-plus years in municipal politics, RM of Brokenhead Reeve Brad Saluk confirmed he won’t run in this fall’s civic elections and will be leaving municipal politics.
He began his political career in 2005 by winning a councillor by-election for the Town of Beausejour. Following re-election in 2006 election, he was elected mayor in 2010. He has served as reeve for the RM of Brokenhead since 2014. Saluk was first elected to the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) Board of Directors in 2015, becoming a vice-president in 2018, a position he still holds.
“I said I was never going past three terms on council,” Saluk said. “I’ve seen it myself; after three terms you can get stagnant. It’s time to switch it up and bring new perspectives.
“In three terms and 11 years, we’ve seen and done a lot. We’ve done a lot for the
community.”
Saluk takes pride in several key infrastructure projects completed during his tenure, beginning with the lagoon rebuild that saw residents pay a one-time fee of $327, with LUD residents chipping in $160.
“Who ever heard of that?” he asked.
Moving the Beausejour Brokenhead fire hall to PR 302 has improved service to the region. Space constraints in its earlier configuration forced the purchase of customized, more expensive equipment, a problem now eliminated. Equipment grants saved the RM hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Saluk credited his colleagues for working to keep taxes down, with only modest increases over the years. He said he just returned from a provincial tour where he saw other municipalities forced to raise taxes 10 and 12 per cent in attempts to make up for years of delayed hikes.
Come this November, Saluk looks forward to more time with family and a few extra hours to work the farm. While he’s at peace with his decision, it’s bittersweet.
“I’ve enjoyed my time here, the people I worked with, and the friends I’ve made,” Saluk said.
LdB housing report highlights needs
The Town and RM of Lac du Bonnet have released a 2025 Housing Report, which highlights the strong demand for housing in Lac du Bonnet and provides valuable guidance for future development
Lac du Bonnet economic development officer Anna Mondor said the report offers a comprehensive look at current and projected housing needs, demographic trends and opportunities for sustainable residential development. Based on a survey of 192 residents and extensive community data, the report captures insights into housing preferences, affordability challenges and future growth in the region.
“With the RM of Lac du Bonnet being the fastest growing community in the North Eastman region, experiencing 14 per cent population growth according to the 2021 Census, we have a unique opportunity to meet housing needs across income levels and age groups,” Mondor said.
The survey revealed that homeownership dominates the local housing market, with 86.7 per cent of residents owning their homes and over half mortgage-free, reflecting a stable yet aging homeowner base. Long-term rentals exist, but short-term and mid- to long-term rental options are limited.
Nearly half of residents spend over 30 per cent of their income on housing, and affordability remains a primary barrier for many considering relocation. Detached single-family homes are overwhelmingly preferred, with most residents envisioning future homes with three or more bedrooms, while downsizers favour one- or two-bedroom units. There is also strong projected demand for senior-friendly housing, including assisted living and independent group living complexes.
Looking ahead, Lac du Bonnet is on a positive growth trajectory. The community’s growth trend tracks higher than Manitoba’s rural average, reflecting regional migration, lifestyle appeal and economic opportunity. By 2031, the population is projected to exceed 1,075 (Town) and 4,025 (RM) residents, with consistent net gains if current rates persist.
“Our location along the Winnipeg River offers an exceptional lifestyle, combining natural beauty, recreation, and accessibility, making our community an attractive choice for both families and retirees,” Mondor said.
Currently, residents aged 60 and over account for approximately 39 per cent of the population, with the largest single cohort being those 60-69 years of age. Youth under 20 represent just 12.6 per cent of residents, signalling future pressures on elder care, housing transitions and youth programs.
Evidence of modest but growing cultural diversity among incoming families and retirees presents opportunities to attract both interprovincial and international migrants.
The local economy is anchored by retail, health care, public administration, construction, education and transportation sectors. Small businesses, trades, and service industries play a significant role in supporting community resilience. While sectors like construction and health care are growing to meet the needs of an aging population, challenges remain in attracting skilled professionals to rural settings.
Household incomes are projected to grow, particularly in moderate- and high-income brackets, encouraging investment in diverse housing stock, from affordable and senior-focused units to executive and family homes.
Housing pressures are expected to increase as the population grows. Current housing stock includes single-family homes, mobile homes and limited multi-unit properties. By 2031, households are expected to reach 1,630 (RM) and 520 (Town), with demand strongest among seniors and moderate- to high-income residents.
Affordable and senior housing remains a critical priority, while development of executive, family, and amenity-rich homes represents a key opportunity to attract new residents. Seasonal property values and limited rental options continue to create market volatility, particularly for seniors wishing to downsize.
The report identifies strategic opportunities, including senior-focused services, innovative housing solutions such as modular and multi-use developments, economic diversification initiatives, and infrastructure modernization.
Recommendations call for a joint housing task force between the Town and RM, targeted investment in affordable and senior housing, public-private partnerships, and community engagement to ensure sustainable growth.
The Town and RM of Lac du Bonnet are also in the final stages of completing a Housing Strategy for 2026-2031. Once finalized, this report will be made publicly available and will serve as a key resource to guide housing-related planning, policy development, and decision-making in the years ahead.
Suspicious man records government employees
A Winnipeg man has been charged with trespassing after recordings staff at government buildings in Beausejour and Selkirk on Monday
Around 11:30 a.m. on Jan. 26, RCMP attended Beausejour’s Canada Post outlet at 515 Park Ave. after a report that a suspicious unidentified man with a ski mask was making cell phone recordings in the post office. Witnesses say after filming items in the retail section, he reportedly trained his cell phone on the staff for what was allegedly a significant amount of time. One witness said the man was asked to leave several times but he declined stating he had a right to be in the federal building.
As staff became distressed and visibly upset by being recorded by the approximately six-foot-four male with unknown intentions, police were notified.
One bystander asked the man for identification and to remove his mask. The man responded by saying he was doing a story on his right to be in a federal building. He did not identify himself or provide information about who he was working for in regards of a story. Others who questioned the man were followed out of the building when they were returning to their vehicles and had their licence plates recorded before the man moved back into the building.
When two police officers arrived at the scene, the individual was outside. One officer went into the post office to check on staff while the other spoke with the man at the front doors as heavy foot traffic – primarily seniors – slipped in and out the building.
The suspect continued to state he had a right to record and debated the issue with police for approximately 15 minutes before eventually leaving the area.
The same man entered the Town of Beausejour municipal office located at 639 Park Ave. before and after the incident at the post office. The first time he entered he likewise took cell phone recordings of items on the walls in the front office before turning his phone on staff and unsettling employees. He allegedly identified himself by the name ‘North’.
When he returned to town hall, he reportedly complained to municipal staff about the police and the employees at the post office.
Later that day at approximately 2:40 p.m., the same male attended the Selkirk Canada Post location and once again filmed inside the building.
Police attended and served a trespassing provincial offence notice to the 52-year-old male from Winnipeg.
– Staff
The Abrams provide remarkable performance
By Brian Adolph
Braving a bitterly cold winter night, the crowd at the Jan. 23 performance of The Abrams witnessed the amazing energy that’s created when audience and artists truly connect.
The Abrams, with their warm and genuine stage presence, remarkable musical talent and support of charitable causes, are a Canadian treasure – and one can only hope for a fifth generation of this grand musical family.
John and James Abrams began performing together at the ages of 11 and nine, respectively, and at 15 and 12 became the youngest Canadian duo ever to perform at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. The brothers come from a musical family that has been performing for four generations, and their work ethic is undeniable.
To paraphrase John Abrams: if a Canadian country performer isn’t playing the tiny towns across the country, they aren’t doing their job.
With Simon Lekasewichj on bass and Isaiah Gibbons on drums, the quartet ran through a program of original, traditional, and crowd-pleasing cover tunes. James Abrams dazzled with his fiddle virtuosity on Orange Blossom Special and The Devil Went Down to Georgia, and not to be outdone, John peppered the show with some amazing bluegrass picking. A standout moment was John’s moving tribute to the brothers’ grandmother, leading into a beautiful rendition of Vince Gill’s Go Rest High on That Mountain.
The Abrams were once known as The Abrams Brothers, changing the name of the act about 10 years ago. With the name change came a shift in musical direction. Moving away from traditional bluegrass, The Abrams adopted the new country sound evident in their popular original songs Good Old Days, Fine and Homecoming. To the delight of the audience, the band also performed a great version of the new country mainstay Knee Deep by the Zac Brown Band.
EMCA’s next concert, jazz duo Dizzy and Fay, promises to bring the romance with their Valentine’s Day show packed with glamour and wit on Feb. 13. Tickets can be purchased on EMCA’s website at www.emcaconcerts.com or at the Pinawa Solo.
Brokenhead Ag Conference Feb. 3-4
The Brokenhead River Agricultural Conference is returning to Beausejour Feb. 3-4 for what has become North Eastman’s premier knowledge-sharing event for the farming community.
Sponsored by the Brokenhead Agricultural Society, the two-day conference will be held at the Brokenhead River Community Hall. The annual assembly gathers producers and industry professionals from across the region and province to discuss how to best sustain the local agriculture industry, new farming practices, resources and techniques.
The heartbeat of the conference beats to the number of trade displays and presentations. Last year, 72 booths were on hand and over 380 people attended.
Retired Manitoba Agriculture farm production extension specialist Terry Buss said feedback from the agricultural industry is always positive.
“We always have a strong agenda,” Buss said. “All speakers bring a lot to the table in regards to what’s going on.”
On Day 1, the focus is primarily on beef and forage. Following registration at 8:30 a.m., the first speaker at 9:15 a.m. will be entomologist John Gavloski and his presentation Grasshoppers, Weevils and More.
At 10:30 a.m., Manitoba Beef and Forage Initiatives GM Mary-Jane Orr will discuss From Virtual Grazing to On-Pasture Weighing.
North Dakota State reproductive physiologist Carl Dahlen will present Impact on Siren Nutrition on Future Generations at 11:15 a.m.
Following lunch, nutritionist John Maltman will address The Business of Raising Beef at 1 p.m.
At 1:45 p.m., Manitoba Beef Producers GM Carson Callum discusses Livestock Inspection In Manitoba.
Manitoba Agriculture farm management specialist Ben Hamm will present Economics of Buying Versus Raising Replacement Heifers at 3 p.m.
With a Day 2 focus on crop production, Buss will take the microphone at 9:15 a.m. to present Soybeans: A Recap of 2025 and My Best Guess for 2026.
At 10:30 a.m., Manitoba Agriculture crop reduction extension specialist Callum Morrison will address Cover Cropping On the Canadian Prairies: Lessons from 2020 and Questions for 2026.
Gavloski returns to the podium at 11:15 a.m. to discuss Insects On Crops In Eastern Manitoba in 2025.
After lunch, provincial soil fertility specialist Marla Riechmann presents Decisions That Pay: Practical Approaches to Soil Fertility Management at 1 p.m.
At 1:45 p.m., U of M senior scholar agrometeorologist Dr. Paul Bullock reviews The Prairie Fusarium Head Blight Risk Mapping Tool.
The final presentation will be Handling Tariff Uncertainty In Your Crop Marketing Plans by Glacier Farm Media director of markets and weather and analysis Bruce Burnet at 3 p.m.
The conference has been a testament to the Brokenhead Agricultural Society. Buss said when he first appeared on the scene 24 years ago, he was advised it might be time to wind down the annual conference as several things had changed including the loss of government funding... but the local ag society thought otherwise.
“I remember meeting with them at that time and they did not want to see it die. They could see it had a lot of potential and they put their passion behind it,” Buss said. “They saw the value in the event and they totally stepped up. When you have that kind of enthusiasm, you can’t say no.”
Buss said over the years he has been asked by government officials how to replicate the success of the Brokenhead River Agricultural Conference in other regions. His response is always the same; you can’t.
“It’s the people... the community working shoulder to shoulder to make this work. You can’t cut and paste this across the province,” Buss said. “We have had national and international speakers come to this event, and the industry wants to be here, which makes it financially sustainable.”
The cost for the conference each day is $20, which includes a hot lunch. There will be industry draws as well as grand prize draws from platinum sponsors Leo’s Sales and Service and Bunge.
For more information email braceventinfo@gmail.com or call 204-266-0897.
Reynolds paying it forward
Springfield student scribe shadows Lac du Bonnet sports journalist
By Tony Zerucha
Lac du Bonnet’s Sean Reynolds knows how much a helping hand means when embarking on a career, so when the opportunity came to help out a local aspiring journalist, he was only too happy to help.
On Dec. 29, Reynolds invited The Clipper Springfield Collegiate student journalist Sierra Smith to attend the Winnipeg Jets game with him. He showed her how to get to the different interview areas, the press box and to ice level.
Smith and Reynolds’ daughter Charlie curl together. In conversations at the rink, Smith mentioned to Reynolds that she was interested in sports journalism and was interning at The Clipper.
That resonated with Reynolds, who has worked with The Clipper in the past. He credits his time with the now defunct Lac du Bonnet Leader newspaper for helping him get into Ryerson University (now the Toronto Metropolitan University) for journalism.
“I’m a big believer in journalism and in the power of local journalism,” Reynolds said. “I respect (Clipper president) Mark Buss as a person and am happy to help out. It’s important.”
“The fact Sean would take time out of his busy schedule and help out a young person interested in journalism says a lot about his character and his passion for the trade,” Buss said. “Paying it forward like this is immeasurable.”
At Ryerson from 2004-2006, Reynolds started working at Sportsnet before returning to Winnipeg to work at Global Television. He made the move to CBC in 2008 where he became the host of CBC’s News Winnipeg at 11 p.m. In 2017, Reynolds moved back to Sportsnet where he continues to work as a reporter and host on Hockey Night in Canada.
Reynolds suggested Smith come to a game so he could show her the ropes so she’d be ready if she was ever assigned a game to cover. He said even established professionals have to learn how move about the Canada Life Centre. In a time-sensitive role like a sports reporter, knowing how to get from Point A to Point B quickly is crucial.
“There is a lot to learn on the fly,” Reynolds said. “What is it like in the press box? In scrums with players? Going through it ahead of time helps you figure things out.”
Reynolds said sports journalism is significantly different than when he started out. Back then, journalism graduates looked for a post in a smaller city to get experience. They move up to a larger city and then a national spot.
That was already changing when Reynolds was building his resume. Many sports departments closed.
“There was no movement,” he said. “You have to find different ways to get there.”
Reynolds and Winnipeg Free Press journalist Ken Wiebe started the Kenny and Renny podcast a few years ago, giving them another way to have conversations with their audience. That can be a starting point for a young journalist to find their voice. If they do well, it can be a stepping stone to a media organization.
Smith took plenty of notes during her few hours with Reynolds. She came out richer for the experience.
“I spent the entire game with Sean,” she said. “We were seated beside each other (in the press box), which helped; if I had any questions, he would be able to answer them.”
Smith met Wiebe and Reynolds’ camera man. As it was her first Winnipeg Jets game ever, it was definitely special to be able to witness the events from up in the press box.
“I just watched the game, observing it from my own eyes,” Smith said. “It was cool to be up there. I learned on how fast everyone works, so you really have to stay on point with it all.”
Reynolds thinks Smith has a bright future.
“From what I saw, she’s a quick study.”
Pearase foursome headed to Manitoba Games
By Sierra Smith
A young but determined boys curling team from Beausejour is heading north after securing their spot at the 2026 Manitoba Games.
Team Pearase has officially qualified as South 1 in the U15 male division and will represent the South Region at the Manitoba Games in Thompson from March 1-4.
The Beausejour Curling Club team includes skip Davin Pearase (13), third Jackson Diogo (13), second Aidan Barton (13) and lead Evan Cleary (11), with Brianna Cullen serving as head coach.
The team came together through Curl Manitoba’s High Performance Development program, where several of the players met and expressed interest in playing together more competitively. Others had previously competed against one another through the St. Vital Curling Club junior program. Despite limited time together as a unit, the team quickly found chemistry on the ice.
Team Pearase had only two one-hour practices before competing in the regional qualifiers held Jan. 2-3 in Dugald. The group finished with a 2-1 record, earning their place at the Manitoba Games.
Cullen brings a wealth of experience to the team. A highly accomplished junior curler, Cullen is a two-time Canadian University Champion and Junior Manitoba Provincial Champion. She also competed this season in the 2026 RME Women of the Rings as a member of Team Kaatz.
The players say they are excited for the full Manitoba Games experience, including living in the athletes’ village, taking part in the opening ceremonies and competing against teams from across the province. Their goals heading into the games are simple: have fun, meet new people, and win games.
Preparation for Thompson includes weekly team practices focused on communication, delivery, sweeping and strategy. The team is also hoping to gain additional experience by playing exhibition games against U15 female teams.
Comets late goal breaks deadlock
By Tony Zerucha
Tyler Nault’s powerplay goal at 6:44 of the third period broke a 3-3 deadlock, sending the Beausejour Comets to a 4-3 win over the La Broquerie Habs on Jan. 23.
Logan Ashe scored his first of the season to give the Comets a 1-0 lead midway through the opening frame. Nault and Owen Lourenco earned assists.
Les Habs responded seconds later with two goals in 90 seconds to grab a 2-1 lead. Former Eastman Selects Colton Pakoo and Mario Gagnon earned assists on the first tally.
Ashe helped draw the Comets even at 16:47 when he teamed up with Jaiden Reeb to set up Easton Gaffray’s 11th of the season. That 2-2 deadlock continued into the second period.
The teams traded scores in the middle 20. Nikolas Bear gave the Comets a 3-2 edge on the power play at 8:35, but Pakoo evened the score with a shorthanded effort at 17:24.
Nault’s fifth was the third period’s only score. Lavery Melsted registered an assist. Shots were relatively even, with Beausejour having a 29-28 advantage. Sawyer Abraham was in net.
The win gives the Comets a six-point bulge over the second-place St. Malo Warriors with six regular-season games remaining.
The Comets have a home-and-home doubleheader against the sixth-place Arborg
Ice Dawgs this week, beginning with a contest in Beausejour on Jan. 28 at 8 p.m. The return matchup is in Arborg on Jan. 30. The last-pace North Winnipeg Satelites come to town on Feb. 1 at 4 p.m.
The Comets’ three remaining games are a home-and-home against the Habs and a season-ending contest in Selkirk. The Warriors have games against the Lundar Falcons, two against the Satelites, and single contests against Selkirk and La Broquerie.
February 5, 2026
Tyndall Village CC receives $200,000 grant
By Morgan Maguet
The Tyndall Village Community Centre has received a $200,000 provincial grant to complete long-needed roof repairs and preserve a key gathering place for residents.
The funding comes through Manitoba Growth, Renewal and Opportunities for Municipalities (Manitoba GRO). The program is available to all Manitoba municipalities located outside Winnipeg and focuses on projects designed to build or enhance capital infrastructure that responds to current and future community needs. Manitoba GRO will fund up to 50 per cent of total project costs, with municipalities responsible for covering the remaining costs.
With half of the roof refurbishment project covered through the grant, it was feasible for the RM of Brokenhead to move forward with the repairs.
“Roof upgrades have been identified for the last 10 years as an upcoming expense and have been part of the RM’s capital plan,” said Brokenhead Deputy Reeve Luke Ingeberg. “The grant is allowing the municipality to move ahead sooner with the needed repairs and lessen the cost borne by RM taxpayers.”
According to Ingeberg, the RM was notified of the provincial funding at the beginning of January, with the grant finalized by the first week of the month through a formal contract made to Reeve Brad Saluk.
“The RM is currently writing the tender package. Once tenders are reviewed, schedules and timelines will be confirmed.”
The project is a major upgrade for the aging building that will ensure its usability for decades to come. The new roof is estimated to last 30 years and come with added insulation to increase efficiency.
The Tyndall Village Community Centre, located at 69 Pierson Dr. in Tyndall, is a volunteer-run, non-profit facility serving the community and surrounding area. The centre includes a licensed hall, a commercial kitchen and bar, and is available year-round for both community events and private rentals. The grounds also feature seasonal amenities, including an outdoor skating rink and a public splash pad during the summer months.
“We have a board of five people and a small volunteer base that assists with activities, as well as making and maintaining ice for the outdoor rink,” said Kerry Fehr, TVCC chair.
Ensuring the building remains structurally sound is a key step in keeping the centre available to the community. Day-to-day operations are kept running by a small staff, while programming remains limited.
“We have a couple of employees who do building maintenance, cleaning and opening and closing of the splash pad and outdoor rink building,” she added.
While the community centre is primarily a rental facility, the building is still frequently used for a variety of community events and by external organizations.
“Due to a lack of volunteerism, we have been unable to host a regular schedule of events,” Fehr said. “The Brokenhead River Recreation Commission often hosts events from the facility as part of their fall, winter and spring calendars.”
The upcoming repair work is not expected to affect operations. Planning for the repairs is focused on maintaining access to the building.
“At this time, we are not expecting any interruption of regular business, and we are hopeful that the work will take place prior to the opening of the splash pad on June 1 or after its closure on the September long weekend.”
LdB Chamber to unveil five-year plan
Vision outlining bylaws, objectives to be presented at annual general meeting
By Simon Ducatel
One year after facing the prospect of folding, a revitalized Lac du Bonnet and District Chamber of Commerce is prepared to present a new vision for the future when they unveil their five-year strategic plan at their AGM later this month.
“There was talk there was not going to be any more of a chamber in Lac du Bonnet,” Chamber president Laurette Greenlay said, revealing last year’s resurgence when 14 people stepped up to serve the board of directors. “(Now) it’s 100 per cent better because we have board members that are enthusiastic and willing to do things.”
Greenlay said the chamber recently completed the 2026-2030 strategic plan and that anyone interested in learning more about the six-page document is invited to attend the chamber’s annual general meeting at 6 p.m. on Feb. 26 at the St. John’s Heritage Centre, located at 86 McArthur Ave.
Among the projects the chamber has been pursuing as part of the ongoing effort to provide more value to its membership is a new brochure “so that we can advertise ourselves more,” she said.
The chamber also intends to organize a community building event with chamber members. Plans to put something together last year were derailed due to the devastating wildfires that swept through the area, she said.
“We’re regrouping now, and we’ve committed to doing a get-together in the spring,” she said, adding the goal is to make it an annual affair. “We’re hoping to have more than one get-together with our members.”
Growing their base of business members always remains a continuing objective. The chamber is a not-for-profit organization that was established in 1979 with 23 members and reached a peak membership of 115 businesses in 2013. The chamber currently has 60 members.
“To me, that’s not acceptable. Everybody should belong to the chamber.”
At the same time, she said the chamber must also strengthen its role as a business leader and connector while striving to elevate the value of membership.
“If we had more for the members, then they would join,” she said. “Because right now, one of the things I hear is, ‘Well, what can you do for us?’”
Following a couple of resignations, the board now has 12 directors, including a four-member executive composed of the president, vice-president, treasurer and secretary.
Greenlay candidly confessed having given some serious thought to not serving another term as president, but quickly added she found other people’s enthusiasm contagious.
“The last meeting I went to, everyone was excited. Everyone was talking,” she said. “And that was an aha moment for me, because I thought, ‘I can’t leave now, because look at this – everybody is talking, putting in their two cents worth. You can’t do it yet, Laurette, you have to stay for another year!’”
The chamber will also more officially unveil during its upcoming AGM a new cozy cabin logo – one of three designs recently voted on by membership.
“The idea of a new logo was initiated by the board of directors during our strategic plan development,” said former board member Tracey MacDonald, who this past September took on the role of administrator. “We had a logo that was developed many years ago and it really did not work.”
Recapping the past year, Greenlay highlighted a training session that was held for board members in coordination with Community Futures Winnipeg River, which also facilitated the effort to establish bylaws and develop a strategic plan.
“We needed to start from scratch,” she said. “And we now have the tools to do more for our members.”
Offering a sneak peak of what people who attend the upcoming AGM can expect, MacDonald said on the agenda is a keynote presentation from Chuck Davidson, president and CEO of Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, who is expected to speak about the challenges and opportunities facing businesses and the role that a network of chambers can play.
There will also be a presentation from the Lac du Bonnet Foundation, a review of the chamber’s activities in 2025, a presentation of financials, the unveiling of the strategic plan and of course the board elections.
Regional road construction on tap
By Tony Zerucha
According to Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure’s 2025-2026 update, motorists around eastern Manitoba will see plenty of construction crews this year.
Major projects include reconstruction for PR 307, Hwys 15 and 12 and PR 207 along with resurfacing on Hwy 44.
A 9.7-km stretch of Hwy 15 between the Perimeter and 1.2 km east of PR 206 sees $40 million of twinning reconstruction work planned. Hwy 12 between Hwys 1 and 44 sees $46.5 million of reconstruction spread across two projects. Significant work is scheduled for PR 215, 7.2 km east of the junction of Hwys 44 and 12; the tab is $21.9 million. Approximately $3 million in traffic safety work should occur on PR 304, 700 metres north of the Hwy 11 junction.
In Powerview, the 1.7 km of Hwy 11 west of PR 304 will be rebuilt for $6.1 million.
Intersection improvements are planned at Deacon’s Corner and PR 207; the estimated cost $16.54 million. Garven Road is slated to see $8.4 million of intersection improvements spread across Pineridge Road, Heatherdale Road and PR 207. In Anola, $3.34 million of work is planned at the intersection of Hwys 15 and 12.
Bridge rehabilitation will take place at two sections of Hwy 11 and the Whitemouth River. Approximately 3.2 km west of Hwy 44, $4 million of work of is planned; $11.7 million of work happens in Elma. Hwy 11 also sees grade improvements 12.4 km north of the south Hwy 44 junction. Roughly $8.8 million of structure rehabilitation is planned for the Cooks Creek Drain. Hwy 44 sees $24.5 million of surface work between Hwys 59 and 12.
Additional smaller road rehabilitation projects are slated for Hwy 15 near the Cooks Creek Drain, the Perimeter from Wenzel Street to Hwy 15, and Hwy 15 between PRs 206 and 207.
Structure work costing $7.1 million is planned for Hwy 12 at Cooks Creek.
Plenty of work is slated for PR 307, including $62.9 million of reconstruction spread across two projects totalling 23 km around Dorothy Lake and Big Whiteshell Lake. Structure rehabilitation is coming for PR 307 at the Whitemouth River.
Looking ahead through 2030, and $2.35 million of culvert improvements are envisioned for the Brokenhead Drain. Planned highway projects include a $9.4 million reconstruction of a 2.5-km stretch of Hwy 1 from PR 207 to PTH 100, $6.5 million of work on PR 313 from PR 315 to Pointe du Bois and $5.4 million in bridge work to PR 435 at the Brokenhead River.
Road reconstruction is coming to PR 207 between Garven Road and Dugald Road sometime before 2031; its estimated cost is $20.8 million.
RCMP search for driver in fatal highway collision
By Mark T. Buss
RCMP continue to search for a man in connection with a fatal two-vehicle collision that killed three people, including a former Springfield resident, this past summer near Bowsman.
A Warrant of Arrest has been issued for Matthew Govereau, 37, from Winnipeg. Police say Govereau was the driver of a vehicle involved in a head-on collision that killed three people on July 1, 2025 on Hwy 10 near Road 224 North.
Swan River RCMP say following the crash, two vehicles were observed in the east ditch, one of them overturned. EMS and the local fire department tended to the occupants involved.
The investigation revealed Govereau was travelling south on Hwy 10, veered over the centre line and collided with a vehicle, which was believed to be pulled over at the side of the road and facing north.
Govereau and his 29-year-old male passenger from Swan River were both transported to hospital with critical injuries. Police say the passenger was later pronounced deceased while the driver was upgraded to stable.
Olivia Michalczuk, 31, and Brendan Berg, 42, were in the parked vehicle. They were both transported to hospital where they succumbed to their injuries.
A Springfield Collegiate grad in 2011, Michalczuk was a community planner for the City of Winnipeg as well as a writer, podcaster and champion on the Winnipeg arts scene. Berg, her partner, was the bass player for acclaimed Winnipeg-based indie pop band Royal Canoe, which has toured nationally and internationally.
Following approval from Manitoba Prosecution Service, 18 charges were sworn against Govereau on Jan. 20 relating to the collision as well as the weapons and drugs recovered from the vehicle following the collision. The charges include three counts each of impaired driving causing death, dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death, careless driving and possession of drugs for purposes of trafficking. There were also two counts of weapon possession contrary to order and individual charges of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, possessing a prohibited weapon, possession of property obtained by crime and possession of a controlled substance.
RCMP say efforts to find Govereau since then have been unsuccessful. RCMP Sgt. Paul Manaigre stated Govereau was not taken into custody at the beginning of the investigation, therefore no court documents were in effect.
Asked why the seven-month delay between the collision and charges, Manaigre noted such investigations are labour intensive. Once complete, the investigative package has to be forwarded to Manitoba Prosecution Services where they review and ultimately decide on which charges to lay.
“Once we receive that decision then we lay the charges and attempt to locate and serve the accused with a court document compelling them to court on a certain date,” Manaigre stated. “If you cannot locate the person, then you request a Warrant of Arrest, which is where we’re at.”
Govereau is listed as being 5’11” and 280 pounds. His last known address was in Birch River, but he is known to regularly travel throughout the province, including the City of Winnipeg. If seen, members of the public are advised not to approach.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Swan River RCMP at 204-734-4686 or 204-734-3454, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or leave a secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com
RMTC coming to Great Falls Hall
The Winnipeg River Arts Council will once again be sponsoring a Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre rural tour stop in North Eastman in February.
The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre (RMTC) production of Hockey Mom Hockey, Dad by Michael Melski is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 22 at the Great Falls Community Hall.
Hockey Mom Hockey Dad is a Canadian romantic comedy about two lonely single parents who meet and fall in love while watching their kids play a season of minor hockey.
Melski is an award-winning playwright and filmmaker whose works for the stage have been published and produced across Canada.
Hockey Mom, Hockey Dad was first produced in 1999 by Two Planks and a Passion Theatre Company on tour throughout Nova Scotia. The Toronto premiere was produced by Factory Theatre in 2003. The Merritt and Dora-nominated Hockey Mom, Hockey Dad, named one of the Top 10 Plays of The Year by the Toronto Star, has toured Canada twice and received over 40 professional productions, including several in the U.S.
For over 50 years, the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre has brought live, professional theatre to audiences outside of Winnipeg. The upcoming Lac du Bonnet show is part of the latest RMTC rural tour, which runs between Feb 20 and March 18 in communities throughout Manitoba and North Western Ontario.
The Winnipeg River Arts Council (WRAC) has been sponsoring the regional leg of these tours for over 12 years. Previous shows include Murder For Two in Lac du Bonnet last year, Mix Tapes From My Mom in Pinawa in 2024, Assassinating Thomson in Great Falls in 2023, The New Canadian Curling Club in Lac du Bonnet in 2020, Buying the Farm in Pinawa in 2019 and The Last Train to Nibroc held in Great Falls in 2017.
The mission of the WRAC is to enhance the quality of life in North Eastman by advancing arts and culture. She added engaging in the arts, social activities and interaction within communities can help with major challenges including mobility and transportation issues, aging and loneliness. Visual and performance art has been proven to play a valuable role in boosting confidence and alleviating anxiety, depression and stress.
The WRAC also assists artists by helping them apply for grants, sponsor author tours at local libraries, hold fundraisers and art auctions and we also sponsor shows or artists.
Tickets for Hockey Mom, Hockey Dad are $25 and available at Daley’s Pharmacy in Lac du Bonnet or from the WRAC office. For more information email winnipegriverarts@gmail.com or call 204-340-0889.
Springfield denies data centre rezoning
By Tony Zerucha
A local businessman’s hopes of building a data centre near Manitoba Hydro Riel Substation saw strike three on Jan. 21 when Springfield council rejected a development plan amendment.
The decision comes two days short of the first anniversary of Wayne Edie’s first attempt for a rezoning. On Jan. 23, 2025, Edie sought to redesignate 160 acres of land, but that motion was defeated for several reasons, including the size of the parcel. Edie returned on Aug. 28 with a downsized, 80-acre plan but was again denied, setting the stage for his recent appearance.
In a report to council, Edie said the site, immediate adjacent to a Manitoba Hydro parking lot, was selected due to its proximity to both the substation and high-voltage infrastructure. That site offers the significant power capacity and high-speed internet access.
Edie’s third proposal attempted to address many of the concerns expressed by opponents of his past two efforts. Landscaping would address noise and lighting concerns and a closed-loop system would drastically reduce the amount of water needed. Carbon dioxide could be stored. Agricultural biomass waste could be used to produce heat. Natural gas could be reused.
Some issues remained. Springfield’s development plan identifies 1,300 acres of undeveloped employment lands one mile away, a factor in one provincial department’s concerns about Edie’s submission. The RM received 26 letters and a 59-signature petition objecting to the project.
The hearing began with requests for information, followed by expressions of support. Jason, who didn’t provide a last name, said he lives two miles from the proposed data centre.
“There have been so many things that have changed over the last six months to a year, especially with the closed-loop water system,” he said. “Going from the massive water volumes we were talking about to virtually nothing in these closed loop systems is such a big deal. Looking through the letters of opposition, that was in 80 per cent of them.”
Dennis St. George, an Anola-based engineer, touted the options for waste heat and renewing natural gas. That brought a retort from Coun. Andy Kuczynski.
“(What does) that have to do with anything we’re talking about?” Kuczynski asked. “We’re talking about the development plan here and we’ve been hijacked by whatever benefits were given to the agriculture community. I just don’t understand why were allowing him to speak on these issues.”
Several people spoke against the project. Honey farmer Karen Insley questioned whether the data centre would indeed have minimal land impact.
“Topsoil is actually a living ecosystem,” she said. “Once it’s removed, that living ecosystem is gone, even if it’s stockpiled. Stockpiled topsoil rapidly loses its biological function.”
Coun. Glen Fuhl said community interest in the data centre has increased over the past year, and he’s heard from many in the immediate area worried about it. He asked Edie to hold an open house to speak to those concerns.
“If we don’t have the information, how can we make good decisions?” Fuhl asked. “This application needs more information; it needs an open house.”
Fuhl then spoke about the arduous task leading to Springfield’s development plan. He said he was wary of going against it to rezone the land. So was Coun. Melinda Warren.
“We are looking at the development plan and the overarching interests of our residents,” she added.
Mayor Pat Therrien cited several benefits of a data centre.
“In my opinion, it’s a good plan,” Therrien said. “It works well with our development plan. It’ll bring jobs into the RM.”
Therrien said the location backs onto a parking lot that already features trucks, lights and equipment. He added Edie’s plans would be a fantastic opportunity as it would bring technology jobs to Springfield.
Therrien was the only member of council to vote in favour of changing the land’s zoning from agricultural to employment.
Certified financial planner sets up shop in Lac du Bonnet
By Andrea Geary
The natural beauty of the Lac du Bonnet area and Winnipeg River lured Angela Wittmann to relocate from Winnipeg a year ago.
“I’m extremely outdoorsy and always have been,” Wittmann said, adding that she can launch her kayak from her property about a five-minute drive from Lac du Bonnet.
A Certified Financial Planner for over 30 years who’s now working for IG Wealth Management, Wittman recently opened an office at 4 Park Ave. in Lac du Bonnet. She welcomes potential clients to book an appointment and come in for coffee or tea and an informal discussion to see if she can assist them.
She said she can help with a financial triage to see what someone’s financial priorities are and if their needs match the services she offers.
One of her professional designations is Certified Financial Transitionist.
“I took courses needed to earn this title and I’m most proud of it as I’m the only holder in Manitoba and one of just five in Canada.”
Wittmann explained her unique training gives her the ability to help clients with the process of change during a time of transition in their lives. This could be a business owner selling their business, a family passing on the farm or other business to the younger generation, retirement planning, or change due to the loss of a spouse, among other situations.
“Whenever your life changes, your money changes and whenever your money changes, your life changes,” she said. “I focus on helping people bring calmness, clarity and structure to complex situations.”
Wittmann is also a Chartered Life Underwriter and Responsible Investment Advisor. If a client requires legal or accounting expertise that she lacks, she can call on her IG Wealth Management team members to help.
While she has worked for IG Wealth Management for a total of about 20 years, she previously worked for the Business Development Bank of Canada and a credit union as a lender for businesses and non-profit organizations.
In her effort to give back, Wittmann commits at least one per cent of her gross annual income to supporting social and environmental charities. She served on the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg’s board of directors for year and now serves as co-chair to the organization’s Heritage Club for legacy giving. She is working towards a Master of Philanthropy designation.
Since she moved into the Lac du Bonnet area, Wittmann has joined the Lac du Bonnet and Pinawa Chambers of Commerce. An avid pickleball player, she’s learning to cross-country ski and to play bridge.
Wittmann said she’s planning a grand opening at her office on Feb. 24.
Einarson downs Lawes in Scotties finals
A late-game comeback by Kerri Einarson ended Kaitlyn Lawes’ undefeated run at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts Sunday evening in Mississauga, Ont. as Einarson stole a 4-3 extra-end win to claim her fifth national title.
Down one in the 10th, Einarson was forced to make a long angle-raise takeout to tie. She clipped a quarter of its red stone, sitting three feet above the house, sending it into Lawes’ counter on the button to force an extra frame.
In the extra end, Team Einarson (with third Val Sweeting, second Shannon Birchard, lead Karlee Burgess) earned a steal after slipping a stone behind centre guard and forcing Lawes into a tough thin double-raise attempt. Lawes made contact, but couldn’t spill the Canadian stone far enough.
“We all tried our best and you can’t really ask for shots back,” Lawes said. “It’s just, what could we do differently if we were to keep going? I’m super proud of my teammates – they played incredible. I wish I could have made that last shot for them.
“I had about a half inch of the rock and had to throw it in hope, so it’s kind of a Hail Mary. I had to make my first one, and it was just a little bit short.”
Team Lawes (skip/third Selena Njegovan of Beausejour, second Laura Walker and lead Kristin Gordon) started with hammer but couldn’t capitalize early. In the second, Einarson nailed a hit-and-roll to hide, and Lawes was light on a draw to give up the steal. In the fourth, Lawes attempted a runback for two but over-curled, handing over another steal. Ends one, three and five were blanked, including a neat double-and-roll-out by Team Lawes following back-to-back raise takeouts from Team Einarson.
In the sixth, Lawes converted a deuce after an Einarson miss where her last rock flashed, leaving Lawes an open draw for two to tie it up. In the seventh. Einarson tried to clear two staggered Lawes stones on the wing and roll out for a blank, but the rock stopped just before the back line, catching a piece of the house for a steal and a 3-2 lead for Lawes.
The eighth and ninth ends were blanked, setting up Einarson’s angle-raise takeout heroics to tie in 10.
Team Lawes were 10-0 through round robin and playdowns leading to the final. In two games against Einarson that week, Lawes won handily 9-4 and 10-2.
On a personal level, Njegovan had a stellar week. Elevated into a position where she is now calling the game for Team Lawes but still throwing third stones, she was named First Team All Star Third, determined by a combination of media vote and playing percentages.
Support for Lac du Bonnet outdoor rink
By Mark T. Buss
The Town of Lac du Bonnet is commending multiple community stakeholders for coming together to enhance and develop the town’s outdoor rink at Memorial Park and making it a community asset.
In previous years, the town developed an outdoor skating surface on the river near the town dock. While well received, the location proved challenging to build and maintain due to inconsistent ice conditions and weather restrictions. Recognizing these limitations, town staff and council decided to relocate the rink to Memorial Park, allowing for more consistent ice building and safer, more reliable use.
The move proved to be a great success. Last winter saw a significant increase in usage, with many residents and community groups embracing the rink. Community members regularly assisted with clearing and maintaining the ice and the space quickly became a hub for winter activity.
Building on this momentum, several community groups approached the town ahead of the 2025/26 season with a desire to invest in improving the rink. Town staff worked closely with these ideas, and all donated funds were directed straight back into enhancing the asset. Improvements included the construction of boards, the addition of lighting for evening skating, window and door upgrades to the warm-up shack and required electrical upgrades.
This project would not have been possible without generous contributions, which demonstrate the strength of community spirit. Lac du Bonnet Home Hardware sold the materials needed for the rink at a reduced price, saving the town money.
The Lac du Bonnet Fire Department has also been an integral part of the rink’s success each year, taking on the critical role of flooding the ice and helping ensure safe, quality skating conditions for everyone.
The Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby and Mrs. Lucci’s Holiday Pop-Up Shoppe each provided $2,000 toward the development of the outdoor rink while the Lac du Bonnet Lions Club donated $1,500 from the Chase the Ace proceeds.
Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby GM Darlene Lamoureux said the organization had originally allocated grant funding to the RM of Lac du Bonnet in support of their winter trail initiative. With that not moving forward this season, they worked collaboratively with Lac du Bonnet recreation director Bianca Tetrault to explore an alternative use for the approved funding.
“We felt this was a strong and appropriate fit, as the upgrades to an accessible, recreation-based community asset closely align with the original intent of the grant,” Lamoureaux said. “We are proud to support an initiative that brings people together and contributes positively to winter recreation in our community.”
Team Van Ryssel headed to MB Games
By Sierra Smith
Team Van Ryssel is preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as the U15 boys curling team gets ready to compete at the Manitoba Games in Thompson March 1-4.
For Colby and Hunter Van Ryssel, Bennett Mead and Nixon Gibb, the excitement goes beyond the competition.
“I’m super excited to be playing in the Manitoba Games in Thompson because it’s the most northern place I’ve ever been,” Mead said. “We get to sleep in a school in the athletes’ village, and that’s kind of exciting.”
Mead is also looking forward to testing himself against strong competition from across the province.
“I’m excited for the challenge of playing against other players from all over Manitoba,” he said. “We’re younger than lots of teams, but it’ll be a great experience.”
Colby Van Ryssel echoed that enthusiasm, calling the games a major opportunity.
“I am very excited to go participate in Thompson, and I just think it’s a really great opportunity for me and my teammates,” Van Ryssel said.
Hunter Van Ryssel described the Manitoba Games as a rare chance.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said. “The experience, like staying in the athletes’ village and taking the bus with my team, even though it’s eight hours, is something I’m really excited for.”
Team Van Ryssel formed thanks to the support of the Springfield Curling Club and Terry Gibb. Bennett, Colby and Hunter knew each other from school, while Nixon joined after meeting the group through the junior program in Dugald. The boys quickly bonded and were eager to play more competitively and enter bonspiels together.
Although Nixon will be unable to attend the Manitoba Games, he played a crucial role in the team’s success and qualification at regionals held at the Springfield Curling Club on Jan. 2-3.
Curl Manitoba allowed the team to add Graham Tinker from the East Region, a move the players were thrilled about after facing him at regionals while he represented Teulon.
In preparation for the Games, Team Van Ryssel practices twice a week with their coach and has been immersing themselves in the sport by watching live curling at the Grand Slam in Steinbach and following events like the Scotties.
While the team is keeping expectations realistic, their goals remain positive and focused.
“My goal is to have fun and win at least one game, but more importantly, have fun,” Colby said.
Hunter added that the team’s mindset is key.
“Have fun, don’t overthink it, and enjoy the experience.”
Team Van Ryssel is fundraising to help cover costs for the trip. Individuals, businesses or organizations wishing to show support can email teamcvanrysselcurl ing@gmail.com
February 12, 2026
Park Avenue fire destroys apartments
By Mark T. Buss
Renters at the back of a Park Avenue business have lost their posessions and been displaced following a fire Saturday night in Beausejour.
On Feb. 7 at 10:34 p.m., the Beausejour Brokenhead Fire Department and other emergency services responded to a call at the rear of the Capt’N Vape shop located at 525 Park Ave.
Upon arrival, it was confirmed that an active fire was working its way through the multi-suite portion at the rear of the building. Given the age and nature of the structure, and its location, a mutual aid request was made to the East Selkirk Fire Department to assist in containing the blaze and minimizing damage to the main structure.
“It’s a building built on a building and the fire was getting into concealed spaces, so a decision was made to pull it down to save the rest of the structure,” Fire Chief Dean Mineault said.
The occupants of the apartment where the fire started were out of the unit, safe and uninjured. Police entered the building and cleared all other units. As many as 12 people were accounted for and there were no injuries.
As the evening progressed into early morning, the Springfield Fire Rescue and Lac du Bonnet Fire Department were also called in to add more manpower. With the additional help, firefighters worked tirelessly throughout the night and were able to get the fire under control, with crews able to leave the scene by 6:30 a.m.
While the main structure at the front of the building was saved, the portion destroyed was one of Beausejour’s older houses built by William Shaw around 1910.
Mineault added the remaining upstairs suites near the front of the building have some smoke damage but are in good condition. The main commercial space was almost undamaged.
“It was a good save,” he said.
525 Park Ave. is a historic Beausejour property. The Bus Depot Lunch Bar opened in 1951, serving as both a Red River and Moore’s Bus Lines terminal.
After failing in the mid-1960s, it was purchased by Ray and Mel Zabrocki in 1967 and re-opened as Depot Lunch. They ran the iconic eatery and meeting place for 38 years before closing in 2005.
The commercial space was renovated and opened in 2013 as 5two5 Bistro, which closed in 2017. It remained vacant until it became the vape shop in 2024.
The Beausejour Brokenhead Fire Department took to social media to acknowledge the efforts of Beausejour Mayor Ray Schirle, who shuttled evacuees to Breezy Oaks and air tanks to the fire hall for re-filling, and Eastcrete ReadyMix for providing heavy machinery to tear down the old structure.
Mineault said the cause of the fire was undetermined at press time.
New curbside bin program rolling out
Automated truck service to improve Town of Lac du Bonnet garbage, recycling pick-up
By Simon Ducatel
The Town of Lac du Bonnet is rolling out a new curbside waste and recycling program using carts that are mechanically lifted and emptied into a hauling trucks.
The move toward modernizing the waste and recycling collection system is intended to improve overall efficiency and reduce risk of injury to staff.
“It is the mechanical system where the truck lifts the carts and no staff will be required to lift the carts, which also reduces the risk of injury for our staff,” said Town of Lac du Bonnet CAO Marley Seymour.
The changes to the garbage and recycling services, which includes the transition to a contracted curbside collection model, also ushers in the closure of the Environmental Options Recycling Depot effective Feb. 28.
“Curbside collection will now be the primary service for town residents,” said Seymour.
Council awarded the procurement contract to Bristal Hauling Limited just before the holidays and the service agreement was finalized last month with plans to introduce the program on April 1. Carts are expected to be rolled out to properties in the weeks leading up to implementation.
Residents will receive two, 360-litre wheeled carts with a secure lid; one black one for garbage and one blue one for recycling. Each is capable of holding approximately seven to eight standard kitchen-size garbage bags. People will also be provided with a calendar outlining specific collection days.
“Garbage and recycling will be collected on alternating weeks,” said Seymour. “For example, one week will be garbage pickup, the following week will be recycling pickup, and this alternating schedule will continue throughout the year.”
Anyone who requires additional capacity may directly make arrangements with the contractor for optional, paid services.
Residents who previously relied on the Environmental Options depot on 2nd Street for larger recyclable items are asked to break down materials and place them at the curb for collection. Wet, soiled or contaminated materials will not be collected. Those living outside the municipal boundary will have to use whichever recycling services are available within their home communities.
“While the town-operated depot is closing, residents will still have the option to take garbage and recycling to the RM of Lac du Bonnet transfer station, where materials are accepted for a non-resident fee,” said Seymour.
She added the transition will improve operational efficiency and allow public works staff to focus on other community priorities. A contracted curbside model will also allow the municipality to better manage costs as well as avoid significant near-term capital investments.
No permanent town employees will be affected.
“The transition reduces staffing pressures, improves overall operational efficiency, and enhances staff safety by eliminating the need to lift and handle garbage and recycling bags,” said Seymour.
Another factor in the transition was changes to Multi-Material Stewardship Manitoba’s Extended Producer Responsibility program, which no longer supports small, municipally-operated depots under the provincial framework.
“This provincial shift places responsibility for recycling materials on producers, significantly changing how recycling programs are structured and funded,” explained Seymour. “Many municipalities are moving toward curbside service as it offers more consistent service delivery, improved operational efficiency, and greater long-term sustainability.”
There will be no up front cost to residents for the rollout of the new carts.
“The bins are included as part of the program,” she said.
However, people will bear a level of responsibility.
“Residents are expected to take reasonable care of the bins. If a bin is damaged due to negligence or misuse, for example, being run over by a resident’s own vehicle, the resident may be responsible for replacement costs,” she said, adding any such instances will be dealt with on a case by case basis.
Environmental Options
Founded in 1995 by Darlene Augustine and Karen Nilsson, Environmental Options was operated as a regional recycling depot serving multiple communities and organizations throughout the region. In 2019, the municipality purchased the operation to continue providing local recycling services.
But with the passage of time and changing trends, many surrounding communities transitioned to different recycling programs, leaving the municipality as the primary user and fully responsible for operating costs.
Bristal offers additional services such as a mobile application that provides garbage and recycling schedules and notifications of service changes due to weather.
The town will also coordinate with the contractor to provide a bi-annual bulky waste collection day to enable residents to dispose of larger items such as mattresses and couches.
As of Feb. 28, all of the exterior bins at Environmental Options will be removed and no public drop-off will be permitted. The site is monitored by security cameras, and improper disposal may result in enforcement action under town bylaws.
Residents are invited to an open house to learn more about the new program and ask questions on March 4 from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Pioneer Club. Anyone who is unable to attend may also contact the municipal office directly for more information.
2026 promises to be a busy year
By Tony Zerucha
With municipal elections scheduled for this fall, 2026 promises to be a busy year for Manitoba municipalities. Look for a year featuring infrastructure progress and candidacy announcements and retirements beginning this spring, with campaigning beginning in earnest after Labour Day. The nomination period runs from Sept. 16-22
The Clipper spoke with some municipal officials and stakeholders across the region to learn what they are watching for this year.
RM of Lac du Bonnet
Reeve Loren Schinkel said the RM of Lac du Bonnet will continue to build up following the 2025 wildfires. Some projects delayed because of the fires will proceed, with others created to replace wildfire damage. Some are dependent on receiving funding.
“The airport fencing security upgrade will take place in spring once the frost is out of the ground,” Schinkel said. “ Additionally, we will be doing some taxi-way, drainage and aircraft tie down improvements at the airport. The paving of Drifters Bend will take place; again this was pushed back from 2025.
“In addition we are looking at a dredging project for Wood Duck Boat launch which would be budgeted for in 2026.”
The RM and Town hope to complete a land use policy and zoning updates. Residents can give feedback at an open house to be scheduled later this year.
Work continues with the Town and Water Services Board on the regional water project. Schinkel said years of effort have brought the project to this point. Partial provincial funding will move it closer to the finish line. Expect public hearings and more information as it proceeds.
RM of Springfield
The race is on to move the Dugald Oakbank Water System (DOWS) and Armtec Community Recreation Centre much closer to construction before Oct. 28. Given the vocal opposition of some in both the community and on council, some fear these projects could be jeopardized should even a small change in council makeup occur.
The Armtec Community Recreation Centre is in the provincial bidding system. CAO Colleen Draper and Mayor Pat Therrien said the tender was an agenda item for the Jan. 20 council meeting.
“Construction is expected to begin shortly after approval and be completed in August 2027,” Draper and Therrien said. “The recreation centre will be well underway prior to to the election, and no risks are expected based on the election results.”
The status of DOWS is less certain. It cannot be tendered until the RM receives an Environment Act license.
“Much of the delay is due to the number of public comments received and the requirement of the province to review and receive comments from the municipal consultants for each submission,” Draper and Therrien said. “Administration meets bi-weekly with provincial staff for updates on the project status.
“The DOWS project is required for any new development within the RM of Springfield, and we expect that election results will not change the need for this project. We will be tendering the project as soon as the license is approved and hope to have shovels in the ground in 2026 if possible.”
Should DOWS be approved, it will unlock several developments that have been waiting for the water and sewer capacity to proceed. Draper and Therrien said “multiple” developments have received approval for their first phases
“Once the water and sewer projects are completed, we expect full build out of many developments that are patiently waiting for water and sewer capacity, as well as finalizing applications from several that have been put in a holding pattern waiting for capacity,” they said.
RM of Brokenhead
While work continues on the 2026 budget, Reeve Brad Saluk said a tax collection shortfall has made for some unpleasant discussions.
“It’s going to be a tough year; we’re going to have to figure out what projects to do,”
Saluk warned. “Do we not buy this piece of equipment? Do we not do this project?
“People were promised these things. Is that fair?”
Saluk said council has its fingers crossed that the Green Bay Bridge gets completed on time and within budget. Failure to do so will impact the spring and summer growing seasons.
“We don’t want the farming community closed off from the fields,” he said. “It could add up to 20 miles of travel time for farmers to get to their fields.”
Municipalities are considering joining forces to share the costs of community safety officers. Those officers can free up the RCMP for other tasks.
“We need to move forward with this because we’re growing,” Saluk said. “We’re always trying to deal with crime rates, so hopefully the RCMP is fully staffed. But we’re always short no matter how much service they’re providing.”
Regional Issues
Schinkel and Saluk occupy key positions at the Association of Manitoba Municipalities. Both said there are several key issues they hope to advance in 2026.
“We continue to deal with recycling issues and the associated cost,” Schinkel said. “Road maintenance, cell phone coverage, the development of the Pinawa AECL site and small modular reactors. School tax issues.”
Saluk said he will continue to advocate for removing the municipal responsibility to cover the school taxes on unpaid property taxes, though he admits it’s a long shot. He also wants to see bail reforms, which would increase the effectiveness of scarce policing resources.
“We have to end this catch and releases system,” Saluk said. “Police officers often tell me they spend much of their time pursuing repeat offenders, who get released before the ink is dry on the paperwork.
“That’s our biggest fear: officers continually going after the same person.”
Sunrise draft budget Feb. 19
By Mark T. Buss
The Sunrise School Division is inviting the public to the presentation of the 2026-27 draft budget on Feb. 19.
The school division is asking all interested parties to attend their board of trustees meeting at 7 p.m. in the Sunrise Education Centre’s mulitpurpose room located at 344 Second Street North in Beausejour.
Those wishing to make a presentation are advised to email their materials to jody.thiessen@sunrisesd.ca in advance of the meeting.
The budget, once approved by the school division, will be forwarded to the province for approval by the end of March.
Last March, the Sunrise School Division approved the operating expenditures for the 2025-26 school year in the amount of $88.7 million. More than half of the division’s budget, $46.1 million, was earmarked for regular instruction expenses, which are mostly salaries. The second largest expense, $17.4 million or just under 20 per cent of the budget, was devoted to student support services such as clinical supports.
Operations and maintenance inched upward to just under $8.8 million, or 10 per cent of the budget. Transportation expenses increased to $6.8 million due to salary, fuel and insurance costs. Divisional administration came in at $2.7 million, while instructional support moved up to $1.8 million.
At the public budget consultation back in December, the division advised they are aware of requests like additional funding for technology, field trips, sports, music, arts and science as well as more program options and staff.
The challenge to granting those however requires funding and increased revenue at a time when ratepayers continue to ask the division to not raise taxes. As a result, the board must prioritize based on what funding is available without compromising education.
On Feb. 9, the Province of Manitoba announced it was increasing school funding by $79.8 million to $1.995 billion. That translates into $34.1 million for Sunrise or an increase of $500,000 (1.5 per cent)
Lake Life expansion ahead of schedule
By Arlene Davidson
Lake Life Powersports in Lac du Bonnet opened for business in February 2024, and the busy enterprise has already initiated Phase 2 of their five-year business plan.
Lake Life Powersports is located on a 10-acre property at the junction of Hwy 11 and PR 317 providing easy access to locals and surrounding communities. They stock Can-Am ATVs and side-by-sides. Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Crestliner fishing boats, Manitou pontoon boats, Sea-Doos, Tige tow boats and ATX surf boats. They are also a Mercury marine loose engine dealer.
Dealer principals Craig Becker and Glen Hart said the early expansion can be attributed to demand for products and service, and overwhelming support from the community. With Becker’s experience and success in dealership operations and Hart’s decade of snowmobile racing throughout North America, the team has a lot to offer their patrons. Becker and Hart knew from first-hand experience that powersports is a business idea that works well in rural communities, particularly in one that boasts as a four season playground.
“The community has been excited to have a high level of service and we built this business for volume,” said Becker.
The current Lake Life facility spans 16,000 square feet and houses a spacious showroom, sales, service and parts departments and indoor storage. On completion, the showroom and sales departments will be relocated to the new 21,000-sq-ft building providing space to convert and expand parts and service at the initial location.
“It’s all been designed to serve the community better and to grow and accommodate demand” said Becker.
The third and final phase of the project will see the addition of another 16,000-sq-ft facility dedicated to indoor cold storage and an additional five acres of outdoor storage.
Becker and Hart said that since launching the business they’ve hired five people per quarter and currently employ 30 people primarily from the North Eastman region.
“About 90 per cent of our staff are local and from Beausejour, and some have relocated to Lac du Bonnet from Winnipeg to become permanent residents here” said Becker.
Becker and Hart have been friends for nearly 40 years and both share a passion for outdoor powersports. In 1981, Becker’s grandparents purchased a cottage in the area where both he and Hart spent many summers enjoying recreational activities. Hart purchased the cottage in 2013.
Becker and Hart reported that there is no slow season for the business, noting that the overlap of seasons can be challenging at high demand times. They reported that all of the products in their catalogue have been strong for sales.
“The community has come out to support us and we really appreciate it,” said Hart. “Their support has allowed us to grow.”
“We know they have a choice on who to do business with and we want it to be us,” Becker added.
Lake Life Powersports can be found online at lakelife.ca
Open Your Hearts concert Feb. 28
By Mark T. Buss
St. Paul’s United Church is holding their annual Open Your Hearts Concert and Dessert Auction on Feb 28 at 7 p.m.
The concert will feature Beausejour’s Kydney, a local bilingual duo featuring Kelia Haskins on guitar and Sydney Kraubner on ukulele. Their uplifting music, distinct voices and a mixture of original music and covers immediately draw the audience into their melodious performances.
Forming a duo while attending École Edward Schreyer School, they have since shared their music at the Beauhead Arts Festival and the Winnipeg Folk Festival as a part of the Young Performers Program.
A highlight of the evening is the dessert auction where delicious pies, cakes and other baked items are auctioned off by Jack Kowalchuk in a most entertaining style. Following is a choice auction, ending with refreshments.
This year, event proceeds will go to the Brokenhead River Regional Library, which is looking to upgrade the public washroom to enlarge, update and meet accessibility standards as per the Government of Manitoba.
The Brokenhead River Regional Library strives to inspire lifelong learning and advance knowledge by providing free and open access to materials and programs free to residents of Beausejour and Brokenhead as well as students of École Edward Schreyer School, École Beausejour Early Years School, Happy Time Nursery School or Gillis School.
The Open Your Hearts Concert and Dessert Auction will be an exciting evening of good music, raucous bidding and a lot of prizes while giving back to the community. Tickets are $15 and are available at Pennyweight Market, The Floral Merchant, the library or by calling Val at 204-268-2212.
Springfield water, sewer fees increasing
By Tony Zerucha
The RM of Springfield’s new fees and charges bylaw contains some significant increases for sewer and water permits and meters moving forward.
The bylaw passed second and third readings at the Jan. 13 council meeting. First reading passed last month.
The fee for a 3/4-inch meter rises $300 to $1,275, while a one-inch meter increases $100 to $1,350. For a 1.5-inch meter, the cost increases nearly $1,000, going from $1,975 to $2,700. A two-inch meter is now $4,250, up from $2,300. A low-pressure sewer permit rises $50 to $200.
Fees include the meter’s cost, backflow prevention, angle valve, tail piece, flange kit, GST, service inspection costs, meter inspection costs and administration fees.
“The actual cost to obtain these meters has increased and we always want these to be cost recoverable,” CAO Colleen Draper said.
New structure fees see barns, stables and farm storage charged at 30 cents per square foot, with riding arenas at 48 cents per square foot. The capital water levy for the fully-serviced areas of Oakbank, Dugald and Anola rises $500 per residential equivalency unit to $9,250. The capital sewer levy increases $550 to $6,250 per residential equivalency unit. Rural wastewater levies go from $1,800 to $2,100.
Culvert installation and extension fees will be based on total project costs.
Coun. Mark Miller wondered if the water and sewer fees could be increased so developers and newcomers could shoulder more of the cost. He said that would lower the municipal debt on this project.
“We have been increasing our levies every year, probably for the last four years,” Draper replied. “We’ve increased them substantially every year. We compare them to other RMs and we are on the high side.
“A lot of our infrastructure isn’t just from new development. We have a old infrastructure that needs to be hooked up to water and sewer. They need to be paying these levies. It’s not just all new development that’s the reason we are expanding these services.”
Draper estimated there are 800 homes in Oakbank on wells. When they fail, homeowners will need to pay those fees too.
Draper said municipal staff conduct regular reviews of other municipalities’ fee schedules to ensure they are with an acceptable range.
Comets fall to Habs, remain in first
By Tony Zerucha
The Beausejour Comets lost 5-3 to the La Broquerie Habs on Feb. 7, but maintained a tenuous grip on first place in the CRJHL.
Following a scoreless opening 20 minutes. Job Peters gave the Comets a 1-0 lead on the power play at 7:58 of the second. Greyson Wood registered an assist.
The Habs then scored two man-advantage goals of their own to take a 2-1 lead, but Peters knotted the score at 2-2 at 18:45, thanks to Miles Armit and Owen Lourenco.
Former Eastman Select Colton Pakoo gave the Habs a 3-2 lead 3:38 into the third, but Liam Johnston tied the game at 6:46. Lourenco and Merrick Hucul set him up. La Broquerie added two late scores to make the final 5-3.
The Comets were outshot 30-21. Sawyer Abraham took the loss.
With three games left, the 21-6 Comets are two points ahead of the St. Malo Warriors. The Warriors have a game in hand.
Beausejour hosts a rematch with the Habs on Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. before visiting the Selkirk Fishermen on Feb. 15 at 3 p.m. The regular season concludes with a makeup game in Beausejour on Feb. 20 at 8 p.m. against the Habs.
Pats selected for national football challenge
By Tony Zerucha
Springfield Sabres’ star quarterback Graesen Pats hopes a strong showing at a national football camp will propel him to the next stage in his football career.
Pats has been selected for canadafootballchat.com’s Fox40 Prospect Challenge West Showcase, which takes place in Richmond, BC from March 13-15. Pats hopes to follow in the footsteps of camp alumni like NFLers Jesse Luketa and Josh Palmer and CFL pivot Nathan Rourke.
The camp features two days of practices, with four 30-minute games on March 15. Players from across Western Canada will be split into teams on the first day.
Pats has a decade of experience, highlighted by two years on Manitoba’s provincial team and a long stint with the Sabres. He credits outgoing Sabres coach Tom Walls for bringing football to Springfield and giving many kids a chance to play close to home.
“I will always be grateful to Coach Tom for providing us with the opportunity to play football in our home town,” Pats said. “Our high school only has around 500 students, I felt fortunate to compete against schools with much larger programs. It was an opportunity I really appreciated.”
Pats said that playing for Team Manitoba provided him with a key development experience. Facing top players challenged him emotionally and physically, bringing his game to a higher level.
“It was an eye opening experience that showed me what is required to compete at the next level. I met some amazing people and met friends I now have for life.”
Pats said the experience pushed him to fully commit to training and preparation.
“I increased my strength and conditioning work, focused on improving endurance, and attended additional camps to refine my mechanics and ball spin. I learned the importance of consistency, attention to detail, and being coachable in order to continue developing as a quarterback.”
Pats said he has long followed the Fox40 Challenge because of its strong reputation. Being invited back tells him he’s getting noticed. His goal is to play in the prospect game that is televised nationally on TSN.
“The Fox 40 Challenge provides an opportunity to compete against elite talent while being evaluated by university and CJFL coaches in British Columbia and online,” Pats said. “This year, my focus is on showing my ability to stretch the field, make confident throws downfield, and demonstrate growth from last season. I see this camp as an important step in earning further opportunities.”
Those opportunities could mean a Canadian university spot or a place on a Canadian Junior Football League roster. Wherever he lands, Pats wants to be part of a competitive program, one valuing work ethic, coachability and long-term development.
While he doesn’t fly out west for nearly two months, Pats is already at work.
“I am preparing by training consistently, maintaining a high level of conditioning, and attending football camps,” he said. “No down time, always working.”
Winterhawks waiting on playoff opponent
By Tony Zerucha
Conrad Solypa’s two-goal evening led the Springfield Winterhawks to a 5-2 win over the Red River Wild on Feb. 6.
The win left the club with a 13-5 record and temporary hold of first place as their regular season came to a close.
The Winterhawks surrendered the opening goal 68 seconds into the contest, but Solypa responded at 2:26. Carter Barley squeezed in a goal at 19:47 to give the Winterhawks a 2-1 lead heading into the first break.
Red River tied the game on a shorthanded tally at 1:36 of the second, but from there, it was all Winterhawks, as Owen Blocker, Solypa and Adam Hughesman scored in the second to make the final 5-2.
The Winterhawks fell into second place later that night after the Winkler Royals defeated the Warren Mercs 10-1. The Royals’ 14-4 record left them one point up on the Winterhawks.
Hughesman leads Springfield with 19 goals and 38 points. His 19 helpers were one behind Carter Barley’s team-leading 20. Barley was second with 28 points while brother Connor Barley was third with 20 points.
Hughesman’s 19 goals are second-best in the SEMHL while his 38 points are fourth. Goalies Steve Christie and Ashton Howarth placed first and fourth in goals-against average at 2.64 and 3.36 respectively. Christie was second with nine wins.
Both Winterhawks’ special teams led the league. Their power play connected at a 24 per cent clip while their penalty killers were successful 91.8 per cent of the time.
Xtreme earn bye into second round
By Tony Zerucha
The Springfield Xtreme’s second place finish have earned them a first-round bye as they pursue an HTJHL championship.
On Feb. 6, the Xtreme fell 5-2 to the eighth-place Red River Mudbugs. David Hazlitt and Carter Van den Bussche scored for Springfield, who was outshot 26-24. Josh Rach was in net
.The regular season concluded with a 7-6 shootout loss to the Niverville Clippers. Chase Janas scored a hat-trick for Springfield. Owen Chmelnytzki, Mason Lesuk and Springfield Sabre Grady Macdonald also lit the lamp. Rach played the first two periods before being relieved by Sabre netminder Trey Robertson. Springfield outshot Niverville 43-36.
The Xtreme tied for fourth in the HTJHL with 125 goals in 30 games and placed second with 84 goals against. Springfield’s power play connected at a 27.9 per cent clip, second behind the Macdonald Swarm’s 29.6 per cent rate. The Xtreme penalty killers stopped 89.4 per cent of infractions, by far the league’s best rate.
Janas led a balanced attack with 18 goals and 31 points. Mattix Carpenter was tops with 20 assists. Goalie Tyson Murdock led the league with a 1.91 goals-against average and was third with a .922 save percentage.
The Macdonald Swarm led the league with 225 goals, 58 more than any other team, and only allowed 64, 20 less than the Xtreme.
The HTJHL playoffs begin with the bottom six teams playing off to determine the three teams that advance to the second round. Ste. Anne, Grunthal and Red River host first-round playoff series.
February 19, 2026
RCMP encourage snowmobilers to ride responsibly
Snowmobilers are being reminded to take the necessary precautions to stay safe while out on the trails this winter.
Manitoba RCMP, Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) and Snowmobilers of Manitoba (Snoman) issued the reminder in connection with International Snowmobile Safety Week.
“Winter is a wonderful time of year for snowmobilers to hit the trails and enjoy the season, but we strongly urge everyone to ride safely,” said RCMP S/Sgt. Matt Lavallee, who teaches snowmobile safety courses to RCMP members. “Snowmobilers need to ride in a responsible manner so that everyone returns home at the end of the ride.”
Lavallee noted that all riders, under law, must wear an approved snowmobile helmet when on their machine and that all riders under the age of 14 must be under adult supervision. He said RCMP officers are on the trails throughout the province and will enforce laws as necessary.
A total of 28 snowmobile-related deaths have occurred over the past six years, including four in 2025. Speed was a contributing factor in many of those 28 deaths, as was alcohol impairment, improper or no helmet use, driver inexperience and careless driving.
“January and February have the highest fatality rates among snowmobilers in Manitoba, so it is very important to continue to have conversations to educate riders about snowmobile safety,” said Maria Campos, vice-president and chief customer and product officer for MPI. “We work hard to reduce fatalities by standing together with our partners, like the RCMP and Snoman, to highlight the things riders can do to protect themselves, such as slowing down, wearing a helmet, and riding sober. Snowmobiling is great fun and a fantastic way to enjoy Manitoban winters, so let’s keep it fun by staying safe.”
In recent weeks, one Lac du Bonnet rider had to be pulled from the Winnipeg River and taken to hospital after driving into open water. A snowmobiler from St. Andrews likewise needed medical attention after driving into a tree near the east entrance for Birds Hill Park in the RM of Springfield.
There are a number of things riders can do to mitigate the risk and stay safe before they even hit the trail. Check the snowmobile before leaving for any mechanical issues, including brakes, lights, fuel levels and engine performance is key. They are also encouraged to carry a fully charged cell phone, first-aid kit and essential repair tools, such as a spare belt, pull chord and spark plugs;
Riders should also plan routes ahead of time and share travel details with someone at home and wear warm, layered clothing, insulated gloves, a windproof jacket, snow pants and a properly fitting snowmobile helmet.
Once out on the trails, riders should maintain a safe speed, stay alert, watch for hidden obstructions like rocks, fences, culverts, guywires and abrupt terrain changes, cross highways and roads safely and drive sober.
“The safety of riders is of utmost importance to our organization,” said Joe Thievin, a vice-president with Snoman. “Riders need to drive to their level of ability and not consume alcohol or drugs before or while out on the trails and take all the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and that of other riders so they can ride again.”
MPI collects a $25 non-refundable annual fee on all off-road vehicle registrations on behalf of the Government of Manitoba to support trail maintenance and development, off-road vehicle safety education and training programs, and rehabilitation of public lands impacted by off-road vehicle use.
Purchasing a Snopass to ride on 13,000 kilometres of designated provincial trails helps Manitoba invest in grooming and maintaining trails, which contribute to snowmobile safety.
Wood Duck on docket for dredging
RM of Lac du Bonnet says maintenance of public asset long overdue
By Simon Ducatel
The RM of Lac du Bonnet is proceeding with long overdue maintenance on the Wood Duck Boat Launch.
At a special meeting on Feb. 3, council accepted the winning bid submitted by RBI Aggregates of just over $200,000 plus GST. The project was originally budgeted at an estimated cost of $300,000 and will be included in the 2026 financial plan. Council approved transferring the funds for the project from the Canada Community Building Fund reserve. The RM has also received a provincial grant for the project.
Work began Feb. 13 and weather permitting is expected to be completed near the end of March with final clean-up activities taking place in the spring. Throughout the construction, there will be no public access through the project site. That includes access to and from the Lee River as well as the walking trail within the project’s area.
Temporary access restrictions, active construction equipment, and minor delays may occur in and around the boat launch throughout the project period. The public is asked to exercise caution, follow all posted signage, and remain clear of active work zones to help ensure everyone’s safety.
At the Feb. 3 meeting, Deputy Reeve Greg Mandzuk noted the RM has full or part ownership of five boat launches: La Verendrye, Winnipeg River, Fernwood, Osprey and Wood Duck. As such, they have a responsibility to provide ongoing maintenance for all of them.
“Boat launches are part of our public assets. After 15 years of silting at (Wood Duck), the site is long overdue for a re-do,” he said. “This project addresses all of our safety concerns.”
The last time Wood Duck was dredged was in 2011, he said, adding the concrete launch was replaced in 2015. A new dock that runs adjacent to the launch was installed in 2014.
Mandzuk added the RM had received numerous requests from the local cottage association to establish docking slips at the site; partly why the RM struck a Joint Cottage Association and Development Association to help council keep open the lines of communication. He said as a partner, the cottage association would be responsible for establishing two boat dock slips.
“This request is timely as the RM will be able to establish enough room for these slips during the dredging of this launch,” he said. “This is no different than us partnering with a cottage association or private entity for naming rights of a park or some other public asset.”
Mandzuk said Wood Duck is not a new boat launch and the maintenance should have transpired at least five years ago, but funds that could have been applied were used elsewhere.
“Simply put, we should not be adding new pieces of infrastructure to our list of assets if we have not done a good job in maintaining our existing assets.”
The project has nothing to do with allowing a cottage association to run a private docking system at a public boat launch, he said.
“This is about establishing a partnership between them and the municipality, which will provide the area with added services at very little cost to the municipality.”
Coun. Cindy Kellendonk said both Wood Duck and Osprey were initially intended to be public boat launches.
“However, council of the day decided that they didn’t want to take on a public asset at that time. So what occurred, in the development plan it was agreed that once a certain percentage of cottage owners were willing to create their own association, they would take over the maintenance and the operation of those boat launches,” she said. “And that did occur for a number of years.”
However, she said the situation has changed over the years since then.
“Both of those boat launches were turned over to the RM of Lac du Bonnet, making it public access for everybody,” she said.
Kellendonk also clarified the developer has had nothing to do with these boat launches for more than 15 years.
“There’s no funds changing hands; that’s all rumours, false information and it needs to stop,” she said.
Additionally, municipalities are mandated by provincial legislation to ensure infrastructure is maintained to specific standards.
“It’s imperative that we catch up on this maintenance because it creates a liability to the municipality, to every taxpayer, should there be any damages or, god forbid, any injury to anybody,” she said. “This isn’t something that we’re doing in favour of anybody. It’s a legal obligation.”
Reeve Lorne Schinkel said he concurred fully with his colleagues.
“This is a project certainly that was long overdue on the dredging side,” he said. “We have an obligation.”
The motion to award the tender for the Wood Duck Boat Launch project carried 4-0 by the members of council present. Coun. Vi Enns-Preston was absent due to a work conflict..
Springfield Food Bank to get new home
By Tony Zerucha
The RM of Springfield hopes to include up to $500,000 to build a new location for the Springfield Food Bank due to issues with its current home.
Council recently discussed a report from Springfield’s director of community services Shawn Wilkinson, who requested formal authorization to apply for a grant for the project. Wilkinson hopes to secure up to $100,000 from the Province of Manitoba’s From the Ground Up Program to lower the municipal tab.
He said the volunteer-run Springfield Food Bank currently runs out of the Anola United Church, but it needs a new home as the church no longer offers services, and due to the condition of the building, the United Church of Canada is seeking to sell both the building and the land.
“In response, the municipality, in collaboration with Springfield Food Bank volunteers, has determined that a new, modern facility is necessary to better serve users and volunteers through improved accessibility and functionality,” Wilkinson wrote. “The anticipated cost to construct the Springfield Food Bank is $500,000. This amount includes the building, interior finishes, site services, and water and sewer connections.”
CAO Colleen Draper said there have been some discussions about the Springfield Food Bank, but more are needed during the 2026 budgeting process.
“There is some money in reserves, but not the full amount,” Draper said. “I think the hope was to start construction in 2026, but that would depend on the money being secured.”
Draper said the building’s current configuration includes two sets of stairs, which was less than ideal for volunteers carrying heavy loads. Municipal staff will be proposing a nearby location on Gass Avenue, next to the public works building and on municipal property.
“Those discussions will be taking place during 2026 budget meetings with council,” Draper said. “We will ensure that there is no interruption to the food bank services during the transition.”
Coordinator Lorri Beer said it is important for the Springfield Food Bank to remain as close as possible to its current location. While the food bank serves people in need throughout Springfield, a significant number come from its eastern portions. Being located in a smaller community also helps preserve confidentiality.
“They really appreciate the fact that they’re not in the centre of a larger community,” Beer said. “Sometimes, the first time they come to us, they have tears in their eyes, apologizing for coming.
“We tell them that’s why we’re here – for them.”
But when she went looking for a suitable nearby location, Beer said nothing suitable was available. She credits the RM for “going above and beyond” to help them.
In a sense, it’s not a surprise, because whenever the food bank needs help, the RM has been there. When the proceeds of a food drive need to be picked up and delivered, RM employees don’t delay in coming by.
“We have a remarkable RM administration,” Beer said. “We couldn’t ask for better.”
That kindness is mirrored in the larger community, and makes Beer feel fortunate to be here. When need outpaced donations late in 2025, the Springfield Food Bank put out an appeal in The Clipper. The community responded, giving the more donations than in previous years. That means relying less on Manitoba Harvest, which allows them to help more people, too.
When Beer’s church needed help running the food bank every week, they approached other area churches. Now four churches share the load, with a different one running the show every week.
People experiencing food insecurity may receive assistance every two weeks. During the average two-week cycle, Beer estimates between 45 and 50 families come by for a hamper.
Those needing help can drop by the Anola United Church parking lot on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon. They must bring their Manitoba Health card and a piece of identification showing they reside in the RM of Springfield. After a few simple questions, they receive their hamper.
Assistance is needed year-round. Those wishing to help can mail a cheque payable to the RM of Springfield, with “Springfield Food Bank” in the memo line, to Box 219, 100 Springfield Centre Dr., Oakbank, MB R0E 1J0. Food donations, especially tinned fruit and meat, can be dropped on at the Springfield Food Bank or at depots like the Springfield Community Library, Oakbank United Church and Co-op. Food bank volunteers cannot accept cash or cheques at the depot.
Other arrangements can be made by contacting Beer at 204-866-3403 or Gerry at 204-866-2654.
“People can come every two weeks,” Beer concluded. “We’ll be there.”
Zion Lutheran accepting donations for fire evacuees
The Town of Beausejour is working with Zion Lutheran Church to collect donations for those displaced by a recent Park Avenue fire.
On Feb. 7 at 10:34 p.m., the Beausejour Brokenhead Fire Department and other emergency services responded to a call at the rear of the Capt’N Vape shop located at 525 Park Ave. Given the age and nature of the structure, and its location, a decision was made to contain the blaze by pulling down the rental suites the back and minimize damage to the main structure.
The occupants of the apartment where the fire started got out safe and uninjured. Police entered the building and cleared all other units upstairs, leaving as many as 12 fire evacuees, including children, displaced. While renters on the second floor had their possessions heavily damaged by smoke, others lost everything as they escaped with just the clothes on their backs.
As the Red Cross does not do direct donation outside of food and accommodations, Beausejour CAO Christine Hutlet made arrangements for Zion to collect essential, gently used or new items to help evacuees get back on their feet.
Specific items include:
• blankets
• warm clothing
• personal items
• male clothing (size Land XL)
• female clothing (size M and L)
Items can be dropped off at Zion Lutheran Church, located at 403 First St. N. in the mornings from Monday through Thursday. Email zionbsjr@mymts.net or call 204-268-1253 for more information.
Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby Feb. 28
By Mark T. Buss
The Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby is set for Feb. 28 with organizers prepared to give away $80,000 in cash and prizes.
The Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby (LdB Ice) is a non-profit organization that disperses funds raised from the derby back into the community to help support non-profit organizations through grants, bursaries, donations and paying a volunteer workforce.
To date, more than $274,300 in funding has been injected back into the community.
One of the regions most popular winter events, LdB Ice is geared towards families with their hidden length and time derby style. Any fish caught could potentially snag an angler one of several cash prizes, with the first place prize being worth a whopping $15,000.
Other prizes include random draws for adults and children, prizes for longest fish, last fish, a skunked prize and more.
In 2025, there were a record 1,394 anglers on the day fishing 1,587 holes and catching 133 fish.
Since LdB Ice’s inception in 2007, a total of 1,949 fish have been caught and over 16,200 fishers have taken part.
Organizers are hoping for a big response this year and to beat the previous record of fish caught (173 in 2019).
The first 325 youth participants on derby day will receive their own ice fishing rod and reel combo – a great way to get young anglers hooked on the fun of ice fishing.
Tickets are available in the registration area starting at 8 a.m. Once derby tickets are purchased, participants may enter the derby site or line up at one of the derby entrance areas. Anglers can get on the ice to choose a hole anytime after 10 a.m. Fishing is not allowed until the start of the derby at 11:30 a.m. Individuals planning on fishing in an ice tent or shelter cannot put them up until the official start of the derby. Electronic devices may be used during the derby but no additional holes will be drilled for them. Extra holes will only be drilled to ensure an angler’s second hole is located close to their first.
Adults and Children can double their chances to win by purchasing a second hole ticket along with their adult or child ticket. Anglers may occupy only the number of holes corresponding to the number of tickets purchased.
Adult second hole ticket holders are eligible to win a 2026 Yukon 14L boat and trailer, generously sponsored by Rond’s Marine. A maximum of 500 adult second hole tickets will be sold.
Fishing ends at 2:30 p.m. but the excitement doesn’t stop there. The street in front of the Lakeview will provide an outdoor patio, a fire pit and live music – the perfect way to celebrate a day on the ice and pass the time while the cash prize winners are being tabulated. Cash prizes will be annoucned on the ice at 4 p.m.
Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby GM Darlene Lamoureux said organizers have successfully filled all 150-plus volunteer positions and would like to sincerely thank the community for their continued support in helping us operate such a successful event.
Tickets are $85 adult, $35 child (15 and under) or $35 for a second hole. Family bundles (includes two adult and three child/teen tickets) for $240. Tickets for the Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby are available online through Ticket Tailor.
Brokenhead denies rezoning due to opposition
By Mark T. Buss
The RM of Brokenhead has voted down efforts to rezone a piece of property in the LUD of Tyndall-Garson for two-family dwellings due to public opposition.
At the municipal meeting of Jan. 27, council voted unanimously in opposition of passing second reading to amend a bylaw that would allow such structures to be built in a subdivision along Banas Drive on the west edge of Garson. Currently zoned R1 single family dwelling, a request was made to rezone 16 lots R2 two-family residential, allowing a developer to build duplexes.
Approximately 253 people objected at the public hearing in November where first reading was given.
With second and third reading scheduled for the end of January, an additional 70 opposition submissions came forward. Council was not able to accept the additional opposition as the hearing officially closed, but they recognized them, bringing the combined tally to 323 unofficially.
Reeve Brad Saluk advised the gallery that in his opinion, two issues arose in connection with this rezoning request. He said the first involved the amount of recorded opposition. The second followed the public hearing as the general public is not supposed to have contact with council on the matter in an effort to prevent the decision being swayed one way or the other. He stated that has not happened in this case.
“There has been numerous points of contact, whether that be our office or council members and I feel it might have tainted the whole process,” Saluk said. “We are going to move on with second and third reading and what becomes of that is up to the people in the audience and the developer.”
Prior to the decision, an unidentified man challenged council about their motives asking why they “were so hell bent on pushing things through like this” and continued to speak over Saluk and Coun. Luke Ingeberg claiming “this is a democracy and I am going to speak.”
“If you hear from the community, that looks out their door into this spot, why are you not taking that into consideration?” the man said. “This isn’t going to affect any one of
you.”
“First of all, you don’t even know how we’re voting and you’re making a decision before we vote,” Saluk responded.
As Saluk read the resolution, Coun. Sean Michaels – in attendance at his first meeting since October due to health issues – said he attended with the intention of voting on the matter. He was advised he could not legally do so as he did not attend the public hearing.
Saluk, Ingeberg and Couns. Brett Steffes and Jack Kowalchuk were all opposed, defeating second reading. Michaels was listed as an abstention.
“Mark it down that I wanted to vote but was denied,” Michaels said, standing at his council seat in protest. “I didn’t abstain, I was denied.”
Saluk advised the gallery that the applicant has a 14-day window to apply to the municipal board in an effort to get provincial approval to rezone the property in question.
“From here on in, it’s out of our hands,” Saluk said.
At press time it was unknown if the developer had made such an application to the province.
RM of Springfield open house Feb. 19
By Tony Zerucha
The RM of Springfield is encouraging taxpayers to attend an open house Feb. 19 at the Oakbank Baptist Church, where council and municipal staff will provide updates on several issues and answer questions.
While billed as an open house from 7-10 p.m., the evening sees municipal officials make short presentations on a topic and then answer questions. That process repeats itself for each area. A moderator will conduct the session.
Topics scheduled to be covered include Springfield’s involvement with the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region, the Armtec Community Recreation Centre, Sio Silica, lagoon expansion, policing, capital projects and the Dugald Oakbank Water System.
“The RM’s been having open houses, and this is another,” Mayor Pat Therrien said on Feb. 10. “Hopefully, enough new people can get there to give us an insight into what they’re thinking.”
Therrien said additional topics may be covered if time allows.
Springfield’s council recently voted 4-1 to leave the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region, citing a lack of transparency as one reason. The Armtec Community Recreation Centre contract could be awarded soon, with the RM slated to open bids in the coming days. Last July, the municipality passed a borrowing bylaw that allows it to borrow up to $11.9 million to build it. That number can be reduced through additional fundraising and grants.
Sio Silica has submitted a revised proposal as it seeks a provincial environmental license. The Dugald Oakbank Water System awaits an Environment Act license, a process the RM says has been delayed by the volume of public comments submitted to provincial officials. Several real estate developments are on hold until capacity is increased.
Springfield is revisiting what it wants from municipal policing. The Springfield Police Service was closed on Aug. 5. Council is considering mothballing it permanently and going forward with just RCMP services, but the RCMP doesn’t enforce bylaws. That may leave them to hire community safety officers for those duties.
Dizzy and Fay a Valentine’s gift for EMCA
By Brian Adolph
The Feb. 13 performance of Dizzy and Fay (aka Mark Lalama and Amanda Walther) was a celebration of the golden era of piano and vocal jazz, when the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Rosemary Clooney, and Judy Garland ruled the charts.
Lalama, a renowned pianist, singer, songwriter and producer, has worked with artists such as Mariah Carey, Tom Jones, and Olivia Newton-John. He displayed his virtuosity at the grand piano, creating rich settings for Walther’s pure, melodic voice, punctuated by dazzling solo work.
Juno-nominated Walther is also known for her work in the folk duo Dala, who have recorded and performed extensively. With neither formal vocal training nor theatre experience, Walther stepped perfectly into the role of jazz singer Fay, not just singing the complex melodies but embodying the songs through her expressions and mesmerizing rag-doll movement.
Inspired by the Great American Songbook – a canon of early 20th Century jazz standards that includes classics like Georgia on My Mind and Blue Skies – the duo performed 20 original compositions that channelled the lyrical and melodic beauty of songs from that era.
Watching the pair laugh and riff off each other was a delight, and songs like the crowd sing-along Boom and the unforgettable Valentine’s Day merit becoming jazz standards.
With a simple, beautifully lit stage, a romantic vibe and the synergy between these two performers, Dizzy and Fay presented the audience with a perfect Valentine’s Day gift.
Therrien apologizes for conduct in chambers
By Tony Zerucha
Mayor Pat Therrien apologized to the municipality on Feb. 3 for recent conduct where he got into a heated exchange with a taxpayer during a council meeting.
Therrien said that even though this term has been trying, with plenty of rancourous behaviour at council meetings, he expects better from himself as a person and municipal official.
The incident occurred near the end of the Jan. 21 planning meeting, which was rescheduled from late December. Several public hearings were on the agenda, including a contentious one about a data centre. During public hearings, citizens can register to ask questions or to speak either in favour or in opposition to a proposal. They are limited to 10 minutes.
Resident and frequent meeting attendee Edwin Giesbrecht had spoken several times during the meeting and was attempting to get an extension to speak further when the argument occurred. Both men raised their voices repeatedly with Therrien forcefully demanding Giesbrecht sit down.
“I’ve taken time to reflect on an incident late last month,” Therrien said Feb. 3. “I’ve committed to handling these situations and individuals with more patience. Meeting yelling with yelling does not help. I confirm my commitment to handling these people and situations much better. I regret it and apologize to my community of Springfield.”
Therrien stressed his apology wasn’t to Giesbrecht, but to the municipality.
Giesbrecht – who unsuccessfully ran against Therrien in the 2022 election – is one of a small group of residents the mayor has sparred with frequently this term. Many incidents began as members of the gallery interrupted council meetings and efforts were made to restore order. Others occurred during the now-cancelled Question Period, which often spiralled down into a free-for-all.
When asked what more he can do to control unruly behaviour, Therrien said he can call the RCMP, which has happened. He stressed that at most six people are the main offenders. Everyone else respects the rules and speaks in an appropriate manner at designated times.
“This group... it beats the heck out of you. You start to wonder what you’re doing here,” said Therrien, who has dealt with heart issues while in office.
“Once decorum is out the window and it becomes disrespectful, personal, it wears people down,” he added. “It’s taken a toll on myself and certainly did that day.”
Therrien said he’s heard from municipal officials from across Manitoba with similar experiences. He expects many political veterans to leave politics with elections happening this fall. He worries the current environment will discourage quality candidates from running at a time when many key issues require strong, capable leadership.
“It’s sad how some people don’t have anything else to do but be negative about everything,” Therrien said. “They offer no feasible alternatives on any issue, but the actions continue relentlessly.”
Despite disruptive behaviour being a norm at Springfield council meetings, this is only the second apology issued by a member of council. In August 2023, Coun. Andy Kuczynski apologized for comments about Indigenous people during a discussion about personal care homes. No member of the gallery has publicly apologized for their behaviour.
Comets still have chance to finish first
By Tony Zerucha
The Beausejour Comets needed a favour from the Lundar Falcons this week if they were to retain a chance of finishing first in the CRJHL
As of Feb. 16 the Comets were one point behind the St. Malo Warriors. Both teams had one game remaining. The Warriors battled the Falcons on Feb. 17, but results were unavailable at press time.
On Feb. 13, Logan Ashe and Easton Gaffray scored one goal and two assists each to lead the Comets to a 5-2 win over the Habs. Beausejour outshot Les Habs 38-25.
The Comets were down 1-0 when Gaffray netted his 13th of the season at 15:06.
The power-play marker was assisted by Ashe and Seth Hlady.
Midway through the second, Jaiden Reeb and Liam Johnston set up Merrick Hucul’s eighth of the campaign. Jaedys Dancyt scored another man-advantage marker at 13:26 to make it a 3-1 game after 40 minutes.
Ashe scored the Comets’ third power-play goal at 8:36 of the third. The Habs soon responded, but Owen Lourenco iced the win with a late empty-netter. Alex Cavanagh earned the win over former Eastman Select Jaxon Loewen, who was between the pipes for the Habs.
The Comets kept their first-place hopes alive by coming from behind to win a 3-2 squeaker over the Selkirk Fishermen on Feb. 15. They were down 2-0 well into the second period when Tyler Nault got them on the board at 14:35 with help from Gaffray and Carter Lee. Lourenco drew the Comets even at 17:49, thanks to Lavery Melsted and Greyson Wood.
Wood scored the game-winner at 11:50 of the third period. Nikolas Bear was awarded the only assist. Sawyer Abraham made 20 stops for the Comets, who fired 29 pucks the other way.
Beausejour concludes the regular campaign at the Beausejour Sportsplex on Feb. 20 against La Broquerie Habs. Puck drop is at 8 p.m.
Xtreme to play Red Wings
The Springfield Xtreme were avid scoreboard watchers last week as they waited to learn who they’ll meet in the second round of the HTJHL playoffs after earning a first-round bye.
The first round saw the bottom six teams face off in best-of-three series. The 15-15 Ste. Anne Aces topped the 2-28 Warren ‘67s, while the 13-17 Grunthal Red Wings outlasted the 5-25 Landmark Blues in the full three games. The third series saw the 12-18 Red River Mudbugs and the 11-19 East St. Paul Gators head to a third game on Feb. 18.
That leaves the Xtreme to battle the Grunthal Red Wings in the second round. Games 1 and 3 are in Oakbank Feb. 18 and 21. Game 5, if necessary, will be at home on Feb. 28. All games are at 8 p.m.
Springfield went 3-0 against the Red Wings in regular season play. On Nov. 22, they edged Grunthal 3-2. Dec. 4 saw the game head to a shootout before the Xtreme escaped with a 2-1 win. A Jan. 31 tilt saw the Xtreme blank the Red Wings 4-0.
Grunthal is led by sniper Colter Martens, who finished tied for fifth in league scoring with 46 points. His 25 goals tied him for third.
Chase Janas was the Xtreme’s top scorer with 18 goals and 31 points.
The Red Wings’ power play sputtered along at 13.8 per cent the third-worst total in the league. They face an Xtreme penalty-killing unit that smothered opponents at an 89.4 per cent clip. At 27.9 per cent, Springfield’s second-best power play faces Grunthal’s third-worst PK at 78.2 per cent.
In other second-round matchups, the fourth-place Niverville Clippers match up with the fifth-place Steinbach Huskies, The Macdonald Swarm takes on the Mudbugs/Gators winner and the Mitchell Mustangs battle arch-rival Ste. Anne Aces.
February 26, 2026
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