May 28, 2026

Lac du Bonnet signs TLE MOU

By Rick McGregor
A historic meeting took place at the RM of Lac du Bonnet office last week when Reeve Loren Schinkel and Brokenhead Ojibway Nation Chief Gordon Bluesky signed a memorandum of understanding regarding treaty land entitlements in the region.
On May 14, Schinkel and council hosted Bluesky and members of his government to sign documents that both entities will work in good faith regarding the development and sharing of services for the land Brokenhead Ojibway Nation (BON) has selected through the treaty land entitlement (TLE) process within the boundaries of the RM.
Historically, the memorandum of understanding (MOU) concedes that BON did not receive land of sufficient area to fulfil the original provisions of Treaty No. 1, signed on Aug. 3, 1871.
In May 1997, the Manitoba Land Entitlement Framework Agreement between the TLE Committee of Manitoba and Queen Elizabeth II advised BON and other First Nations could select Crown land and purchase other private land to satisfy the treaty property shortfall. BON signed on for TLE with the Crown in September 1998.
BON made their land selections in 2002 and have been collaborating with the RM since then. Brokenhead has selected approximately 3,000 acres of land over three parcels within the RM of Lac du Bonnet. One is off of Cape Coppermine Road, another is south of the Granite Hills development with another on Grausdin Point. Other parties including Manitoba Hydro and the Province of Manitoba have contributed to delays regarding the properties in the Lee River and Granite Hills area as laid out within the MOU.
According to Schinkel and Coun. Cindy Kellendonk, the lands selected are uninhabited Crown lands – no private property is being impacted and there is no threat of farmland, campgrounds, cottages or homes being expropriated.
“Any fear that people will lose their land is not accurate,” Kellendonk said. “Anyone with concerns can come to the RM office, look at the map and find out for themselves.”
The MOU signed May 14 outlines the RM and BON will work together to negotiate a municipal development and service agreement. Other statements of acknowledgment, responsibilities, dispute resolution and commitments between the two parties are also spelled out. The full MOU can be found on Lac du Bonnet’s website.
Bluesky spoke of the excitement in 2002, with making the land selections and purchases for their community. He said there were a lot of steps to fulfil their outstanding treaty obligations, especially between the band and RM councils, governments that had never spoken before.
“I (would) like to acknowledge the foresight of (late Lac du Bonnet) Reeve Gus Wruck. He was putting this type of agreement on the table a long time before reconciliation was cool,” Bluesky said. “I attended some of those meetings back then, and some of them got pretty heated.”
He said he also thought about late Brokenhead Chief Jim Bear and his resilience in standing up for BON and making sure their interests were on the table and understanding that they have as much right and just as much entitlement to be here as anywhere else.
“A number of chiefs since 2002... when we first signed the treaty land entitlement that have now gone on the spirit world. They never got to see what I got to see today,” Bluesky said. “But now, some 20 years later, I’ve had the luxury of seeing full circle, the intentions of Reeve Schinkel and the council here in Lac du Bonnet and the progress that we made here today in terms of the signing.”
Bluesky went on to point out that there is still a lot of work to do. They selected and acquired  different parcels of lands within the territory for economic development, social and cultural reasons. The particular lands with the RM were always slated for commercial development.
“That will... always be the driver and foundation we are building with the work that we are doing as an existing council that our children and grandchildren will be able to build on,” Bluesky said. 
Reeve Schinkel was asked to sum up  the culmination of what has been a long journey. 
“We really are thankful to Brokenhead First Nation, to Chief Bluesky and his Council for coming here today. You know, this is historical. When we signed the MOU, that set the path forward for their development of their treaty land entitlement and it just shows when two communities are working together, what we are going to achieve on the economic development side. And you know, we really look forward to working with them as this process continues.”

Beausejour rallies around Kennedy

Cross-country Canadian Cancer Society fundraiser stops in athlete’s hometown

By Morgan Maguet

Residents gathered in Beausejour this weekend to support local endurance athlete Mady Kennedy as she cycled through Manitoba during her cross-country cancer fundraiser.
Kennedy, who is now more than halfway through her 7,500-kilometre ride across Canada, stopped in Beausejour May 23 as part of a community event hosted at Ramer’s Esso and Car Wash.
The Saturday afternoon event featured food, raffles, music and fundraising activities, with community members coming together throughout the afternoon to cheer Kennedy on as she continued west toward British Columbia.
Local businesses and organizations played a major role in the event through sponsorships, donations and food contributions. Cobra Enterprises and Shades of The Past each donated $1,000 dollars to the cause. Twilite Productions provided live music during the event, while Brokenhead Sausage sold barbecue items and Pennyweight Market supplied drinks, with proceeds supporting Kennedy’s fundraising goal. 
The Beausejour Fire Department was also on-site offering ice cream and family activities, while community giveaways added to the atmosphere throughout the afternoon.
Kennedy’s route through Beausejour began with a police escort to Ramer’s Esso, where she stopped for the community gathering. She later passed by École Edward Schreyer School, which she previously attended, and continued west on Hwy 44 via First Street North.
Supporters gathered along park avenue, cheering as Kennedy rode into town before stopping to greet family, friends and supporters. The emotional and heartfelt afternoon included hugs, autographs, conversations and time spent meeting those who came out to show their support.
Kennedy also delivered a short address during the event, thanking the community for its support along the journey.
 “Thinking about coming through Beausejour has helped get me through this entire ride. The support means more than people could ever imagine,” said Kennedy. “Thank you to everyone who believed in me and supported me.”
 “This stop has been one of the highlights of my life,” she said. “This town raised me, and I’m incredibly proud to be from here.”
 Kennedy finished her address with a reminder of why she started out on her journey, to inspire people to value their health, life, and to continue pushing yourself. 
“What a privilege it is to be able to do this journey with all of you,” Kennedy added. “This whole experience has been such a blessing.”
Beausejour Mayor Ray Schirle also spoke during the event, highlighting the local support.
 “It’s incredible to see the community come together to support one of our own,” said Schirle. “Mady’s determination and commitment to this cause have made the entire community proud. She is a true community hero.”
Lac du Bonnet MLA Wayne Ewasko also addressed attendees, calling the event an important moment for the region. 
“This is a true community event that brings hope to so many people,” said Ewasko. “Cancer research is such an important cause, and we wish Mady all the best as she continues the rest of her journey.”
The Manitoba leg of Kennedy’s journey has featured strong community involvement, with supporters turning out across the province as she continues west. Following the Beausejour route, Kennedy continued on toward Birds Hill Provincial Park before being greeted with a police escort into Winnipeg. 
Kennedy departed from Peggy’s Cove, N.S., on April 27 and is cycling across Canada in support of the Canadian Cancer Society with the goal of raising $1 million for cancer research.
Since the start of the ride, Kennedy has dealt with rainy weather, changing terrain and physically demanding riding days averaging roughly 176 kilometres.
Her father, Troy Kennedy, has been travelling alongside her in an RV, helping support the logistics of the ride.
The Beausejour event marked a significant homecoming moment in the journey, with residents turning out to support one of their own while helping push Kennedy closer to her fundraising goal.
Supporters can continue following Kennedy’s progress and contribute through her official campaign page with the Canadian Cancer Society.

Trio facing trafficking charges

By Jann Perry
Three people pulled over by police last week for a vehicle stop have been arrested and facing drug charges.
On May 19 at 11:39 p.m., Powerview RCMP were at a business on Pine Street in Powerview and observed a vehicle near them which they recognized as being involved in a recent vehicle theft. 
Officers approached the vehicle and knew that the female driver did not possess a valid driver’s licence. Shortly after, a male and a female came out of the store and approached the vehicle. It was determined that all three of them were travelling together. 
The male was found to be wanted for assault causing bodily harm and he was arrested immediately. Upon his search, officers located and seized a large sum of cash. 
All three were arrested for possession for the purpose of trafficking. 
Further investigation led to the additional seizure of drug paraphernalia, prescription pills, a large amount of Canadian currency and methamphetamine.  
The driver, Stephanie Daniels, a 34-year-old female from Sagkeeng First Nation, and the wanted male, a 38-year-old from Selkirk, were remanded into custody for possession for the purpose of trafficking. 
The other female, Shaylene Guimond, a 32-year-old from Powerview, was charged for possession for the purpose of trafficking and released on conditions with a pending court date.

Canoeist pulled from water

By Jann Perry
A Gimli man had to be plucked from the water at Whiteshell Provincial Park last week after dumping his canoe after dark.
On May 21 at 11:30 p.m., Lac du Bonnet RCMP were notified of someone possibly in distress in Betula Lake in the park. 
When RCMP, Manitoba Conservation and EMS attended the scene, they were met by a homeowner who advised they had pulled a male to safety from the lake after his canoe had capsized. The 34-year-old was conscious and later taken to hospital as a precaution.
He was the lone occupant of the canoe and not wearing a life jacket.
Lac du Bonnet RCMP would like to remind the community to please practice safe boating skills no matter what type of watercraft you are on.
With lake water being particularly cold at this time of the year, proper clothing and life jackets are essential.

Chickendaze returns to roost May 29-31

By Jann Perry
Springfield’s Chickendaze summer festival will be returning to roost at the Oakbank Community Club grounds May 29-31.
Hosted by the ADHOC (Anola, Dugald, Hazelridge, Oakbank and Cooks Creek) Entertainment Association Inc., Springfield Chickendaze is a family event known for their cheerful hospitality and fun filled atmosphere.
Thousands of people come through the event over the weekend with Chickendaze seeing the return of many favourites including children’s activities, beer gardens, chicken races and the mixed orthodox softball tournament.
The Chickendaze Select Shows midway will provide exciting rides Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
On Friday night, The Derek Peters Band will perform on the Barnyard Mains Stage from 9:15-10:45 p.m. The former lead singer of the group Past The Perimeter, The country music singer-songwriter received the 2024 Music Video of the Year at the Manitoba Country Music Awards.
Friday night headliner and 2025 Manitoba Country Music Male Singer of the Year winner Quinton Blair will bring his up-tempo boot-stomping brand of country music to the stage from 11:15 p.m. to 12:45 a.m.
On Saturday, children and their parents will be lining Oakbank’s Main Street for the Chickendaze parade at 10:30 a.m. Chickendaze floats and parade participants hand out candy, flyers or prizes directly to parade attendees.
ADHOC chair Mike Bertram wants to advise everyone who plans to attend the parade of construction going on along the northwest side of Main Street. He requests  patrons avoid that area and find elsewhere to set up to enjoy the festivities.
For children, Glitterbug Family Entertainment is coming back to the Barnyard with face painting, glitter tattoos and balloon animals. 
Something new this year, Bertram said ADHOC is bringing in a mobile rock climbing wall for all skill levels from beginner to expert from 1-5 p.m.
Several local artisans, crafters, food sellers and merchants are registered to sell their wares at the Vendor Village Saturday from noon to 4:30 p.m. A Zumba demonstration will take place at 12:30 p.m.
The Royal Chickee Derby is a mini chicken racing tournament for kids ages four to 10 at 2:30 p.m. Each child gets to name their own racing chicken and cheer them on in the race. The winner of the race is crowned King or Queen Chickee.
The Chickendaze Chicken Wing Eating Contest begins at 3:45 p.m. for children and 4:15 p.m. for adults.
The world famous Chicken Races will go on throughout the afternoons of both Saturday and Sunday.
Saturday’s musical entertainment begins with the SCI Sabre Soul rock band making a return to Chickendaze at 2 p.m.
Saturday night, Acoustic Collective kicks things off from 6-8 p.m. before a mash-up of great rock and roll with Holly Davidson at 8:45 p.m., Dr. Rocktopus at 10 p.m. and the Big Top Radio 80s send-off at 11:45 p.m.
Sunday begins with a Worship Together Springfield church service at 10:30 a.m. Space Dancers will perform at 12:30 p.m. with the Family Fun Chicken Races and Poop Bingo at 4:15 p.m.
Musical entertainment Sunday will be provided by two Springfield bands. Crossfire plays from 3:30-4:15 p.m. with Pinto performing from 5:30-6 p.m.
Rural Ride Shuttle and the Oakbank Shuttle Bus will be making sure everyone gets home safely.
For more information go to www.chickendaze.ca

Bill 33 to reduce Municipal Board influence

By Tony Zerucha
Municipalities across Eastman welcome proposed changes to a bill that would reduce the influence of Manitoba’s Municipal Board over local decisions. 
Bill 33 has passed two readings and is under review by the Standing Committee. The proposed changes are designed to reduce the number of matters the Municipal Board handles. The board has seen a surge in issues forwarded to it for consideration. 
In the past, a minimum of 25 objections could trigger a Municipal Board review and hearing. The Province of Manitoba has increased that to the greater of 100 or five per cent of the population for municipalities with populations under 6,000, and 300 for municipalities with 6,000 people or more.
Bill 33 takes it further. Instead of holding a hearing, the Municipal Board bases its recommendation on information provided by the municipality, including all eligible public objections. Councils are urged to address matters like compliance with their development plan and local laws, along with public consultation, in their submissions.
The Municipal Board’s decisions would no longer be binding, but municipalities must “consider” board recommendations.
“The term ‘considered’ means to have thought about, examined, taken into account, or reflected upon,” a provincial document states. “Best practice includes a discussion of the recommendations at a council meeting, with minutes or similar records showing that the local council turned its mind to the board’s recommendations before giving the bylaw third reading.”
Elected officials welcome the changes, saying that Municipal Board hearings are costly and can be used by certain groups to delay municipal business they disagree with. RM of Lac du Bonnet Reeve Loren Schinkel said he agrees with the shift away from hearings.
“I know of instances where a group of objectors come to a meeting on a proposed bylaw amendment, or a development under the Planning Act. They have gathered the required signatures, perhaps some that are not even residents,” Schinkel said. “This forces the issue to a Municipal Board hearing, which stalls the development process, and also costs the municipality a lot of fees. I know of instances where these hearings have cost the municipality thousands of dollars.
“I have been part of Municipal Board hearings. They have become part of a very obstructive process, which costs municipalities a lot of time and legal fees with hearings that circumvent the decisions of a functioning council.”
RM of Reynolds Reeve Russ Gawluk called Bill 33 “a critical step in eliminating, or at least minimizing, the oversight and direct interference of the provincial government to overrule the decisions of a municipal council that has been duly elected under the applicable elections act.” 
Gawluk added councils are elected by majority vote to represent the public. Municipal Board influence contradicts how governments are designed to function.
“I am certain that a provincial government would fight against any such forced interference by our federal government,” Gawluk said. “We only have to glance over to Alberta or BC to see an example of this.”
Gawluk said some ratepayers objected to a comprehensive review and updating of Reynolds’ zoning bylaw, a process mandated by provincial law. That led to a Municipal Board hearing.
Before the hearing, a ratepayer inquiry led to a preliminary hearing before the original meeting. Gawluk said that it added two days of hearing time and more than $30,000 in costs.
“We are now waiting for that decision by the board before the original matter can move forward,” Gawluk said. “This provincially dictated interference by the Municipal Board will result in many tens of thousands of dollars of cost to our ratepayers and is completely uncalled for.”
RM of Springfield Mayor Pat Therrien said the changes will expedite municipal business. He said the number of Municipal Board hearings has “gotten out of hand.” Removing the need for a hearing should help reduce the board’s backlog.
“With a small number of objections, often via petitions which have become weaponized by a small group of people, a small group can put a rezoning application into the Municipal Board quite easily,” Therrien said. “They have done so often in our RM at a huge cost to the taxpayers.”
If councils don’t have to abide by Municipal Board decisions, why have a Municipal Board at all?
“Their decision has to apparently be given meaningful weight, where there is a record of discussions and the decision of the Municipal Board,” Schinkel said. “But what does that mean? Who ultimately decides what ‘considered’ means? We do that daily. We have meaningful discussions, debate and include public decisions and information in our deliberations.
“So in the end, this is a positive change.”
“The sooner this interference is taken from ‘dictating and over-ruling’ to ‘recommending’, the better off our municipal level of government will be,” Gawluk said. “As a council, we welcome comments and suggestions, but why elect us if you are not going to let us do the job?”

Brokenhead hiring community safety officer

By Tony Zerucha
The RM of Brokenhead is hiring a community safety officer to perform a range of duties, including issuing speeding and weight restriction tickets. 
Community safety officers (CSO) are designated peace officers appointed under the provincial Police Services Act and municipal community safety officer legislation. The application window closed on May 15.
Working under the direction of the RM of Brokenhead and guided by the Safety Officer Program Policy Manual, the CSO will contribute to community safety through patrols, wellness checks, enforcement of bylaws, and the lawful exercise of authorities under specified provincial legislation. Their role is grounded in cultural respect, local knowledge and a commitment to community-based public safety.
Duties will include bylaw and community safety regulation enforcement, event security, serving legal documents such as evictions, subpoenas and summons, rescue operations, community relationships and evidence collection.
The officer will replace a contract with Prairie Bylaw Enforcement. That company recently provided the RM with 30 days’ notice after the municipality began advertising for the post.
Municipalities across Manitoba are struggling with rising policing costs and seek affordable methods of fulfilling duties not addressed by the RCMP. Some contract agencies like Prairie Bylaw Enforcement and Commissionaires while others hire community safety officers. Some prefer a hybrid approach.
Reeve Brad Saluk said Brokenhead opted for community safety officers because the provincial government endorses the concept. He confirmed their duties will include issuing tickets for speeding and overweight vehicles.
“It’s another tool in the box for the municipality to help out police,” Saluk said.
Saluk said Prairie Bylaw Enforcement did not issue tickets. That created an enforcement deficit when RCMP officers were occupied with other tasks, such as mental health transfers, where they must stay with a person until they are admitted to hospital.
“In such a case, the community safety officer can fill in the gap in the community,” Saluk said, citing examples of frequent complaints from the LUD of Tyndall-Garson about speeding, stop sign violations and off-road vehicles.
The program comes with roughly $300,000 of start-up costs for vehicles and scales, but will provide cost savings to the RM, Saluk said. 
“We may eventually go with two community safety officers,” Saluk said. “This will give us more enforcement.”
The RM of Springfield is reviewing its community policing approach after the Springfield Police Service was mothballed in 2025. It is holding a community meeting on May 21 to discuss options.

Legion 164 hosting Centennial celebration

By Jann Perry
The Lac du Bonnet Legion Branch 164 is celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion with a community event June 6.
The event will feature a free barbecue from 4-6 p.m., offering hamburgers and hotdogs while supplies last. Live entertainment will be provided by Christa Lucas with Garnet Knight from 4-7 p.m., alongside the Legion’s popular afternoon meat draw.
This family-friendly event welcomes all members of the community, including children, to come together to honour Veterans and to celebrate 100 years of service, remembrance and support
The Royal Canadian Legion is marking its 100th Anniversary, celebrating a century of dedicated service to Canada’s veterans, their families and communities nationwide.
Founded in 1926 and incorporated on July 17, 1926, the Royal Canadian Legion has long served as a pillar of remembrance, advocacy, and support for those who have served in times of war, military conflict, and peacekeeping missions. Over the decades, it has played a vital role in improving veterans benefits, providing essential services and fostering camaraderie among veterans. The Legion is also widely recognized for its leadership in Remembrance Day ceremonies, ensuring that the sacrifices of Canada’s fallen are never forgotten.
The centennial milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on the Legion’s enduring contributions, including youth programs, scholarships and charitable initiatives that continue to strengthen communities across the country. It also serves as a renewed commitment to supporting veterans and their families well into the future.

Cheadle wins Skills Manitoba competition

By Tony Zerucha
Rylie Cheadle has long wanted to be an esthetician, and her gold medal at the recent Skills Manitoba competition is proof she is on the right track.
Cheadle captured the gold medal in April and is off to the Canadian championships in Toronto from May 27-30.
Skills Canada Manitoba (established in 1998) is a not for profit, charitable organization that works with employers, educators, labour groups and governments to promote skilled trades to Manitoba youth through events that raise awareness of the benefits of those careers.
As a child, Cheadle liked painting her nails. She also had a family friend who was an esthetician and asked her many questions.
A few years later, Cheadle heard about an esthetics program at Louis Riel Arts and Technology Centre in Winnipeg. She enrolled in that while also taking courses at Springfield Collegiate.
In January, a teacher suggested Cheadle enter the competition. After a little prodding, she agreed. That meant extra practice in the many different areas of esthetics, in addition to her classwork and apprenticeship at Springfield Wellness in Oakbank.
“It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it,” Cheadle said.
While Cheadle was interested in some aspects of esthetics for years, her education has included an introduction to the many different jobs an esthetician may perform.
“I was learning about the different muscles and bones in the body and the pH of your skin, what products benefit your skin and how it all works together,” she explained. “The skin portion of being an esthetician is so professional looking, elegant and calming. It feels professional and serious and I like that.
“A lot of factors come together to give the client a good experience.”
On April 9, Cheadle was judged on every aspect of the client experience, from setting up the room and equipment sanitation to making the client comfortable and performing different procedures. This was all being done in a large gym at Red River College as trades from hairstyling and robotics also competed nearby. Credit Cheadle for not being distracted.
“I was very focused but sometimes I looked up and a few people were watching in front of my area,” Cheadle said. “When I got to the makeup there were so many people.
“I was concentrating. My dad told me afterwards that CTV was there pointing a camera at me but I was in the zone.”
Cheadle had to wait close to two hours to learn if she won.
“I was hopeful, but I didn’t want to jinx myself. When they called my name I was so relieved. I could be happy now. All my work has been for something.”
She is busy preparing for the Canadian championships May 27-30 in Toronto, where she’ll compete against aspiring estheticians from across Canada. For two days, she’ll be performing facial, makeup and nail procedures for nine hours per day.
It’s all part of a busy spring that also includes graduation preparations. Given her expertise with nails, she already has fellow graduates asking for appointments.
Come July, Cheadle has options. She’s continuing her work at Springfield Wellness. Down the road, she may open her own home-based shop or take a position at a spa in the city.
“I definitely want to stay in this industry,” Cheadle said. “A lot of people tell me I’m good at it. And I like it.”
Cheadle encourages her fellow students to consider the trades. It’s been a rewarding path for her.
“A lot of students are stressed about their futures. People don’t think about them a lot, but the trades give you significant opportunities, they pay well and they’re fun.”

Brek Liske playing for Memorial Cup

By Tony Zerucha
As he enjoys playing in the Memorial Cup, Beausejour’s Brek Liske knows how fortunate he is to be living the dream of many young Canadian hockey players and fans.
Liske, 18, and the Western Hockey League champion Everett Silvertips are battling the host Kelowna Rockets, OHL champion Kitchener Rangers and QMJHL champion Chicoutimi Saguenéens for the Memorial Cup and Canadian junior hockey supremacy.
The 6’3”, 187-pound defenceman said winning the WHL championship over the Prince Albert Raiders and raising the the Ed Chynoweth Cup was an “unreal” experience.
“Lifting it felt like a year’s worth of hard work paying off,” Liske said.
After scoring 28 points in 31 games for the 2021-22 Eastman Selects U15 AAA squad, Liske spent two campaigns with the Northern Alberta Xtreme Prep program, where he scored 21 times and chipped in 45 assists in 53 games. That performance led Everett to draft him 10th overall in 2023.
Now in his second full season in Everett, Liske has played 121 regular-season games and scored 10 goals with 27 assists for 37 points. He improved across the board this season by producing seven goals, 17 assists, and a plus-36 rating. That was just a tune-up for an 18-game playoff showing that saw Liske post four goals, 13 assists and 17 points in 18 games, to go with a Canadian Hockey League-leading plus-25 rating.
“I feel like my game’s gotten much better this year,” Liske said. “Playing second-pairing to start the year made my mindset go towards being the best second-pairing defenseman possible. When I got the opportunity to go up to the first pairing, I was ready.”
The Silvertips have five NHL draftees in their lineup, headlined by West St. Paul’s Carter Bear, who went 13th overall to Detroit in the 2025 draft. The Rockets boast eight NHL selections, including 2025 eighth-overall pick Tij Iginla and second-rounder Peyton Kettles, whose father, Kyle, is a Lac du Bonnet native selected in the seventh round by Nashville in 1999. Les Saguenéens have 13 NHL draftees, while the Rangers have five, including first-rounders Cameron Reid and Sam O’Reilly.
The Silvertips are approaching the Memorial Cup just like how they’ve prepared for every big challenge this season.
“After the big win, we’re resetting and preparing for one more hard week,” Liske said. “Our mindset is to take it day by day; that works for us.”
Pro scouts have noticed Liske’s growth. NHL Central Scouting ranks Liske 44th among North American skaters, while Elite Prospects has him 40th. He admits to thinking about the draft early this season, but he has more immediate concerns.
“I have learned that it’s all outside noise and no benefit to me. Now, I just go and play hockey.”
Liske will have a big cheering section this week, as his mother and sister will attend every game. Father Lonnie is flying down for the weekend.
“These last few weeks have been a whirlwind, but really good,” Lonnie said. “As he’s growing up and we’re watching him, you never think these things could happen.”
It’s also a time to reflect on the family’s journey over Brek’s hockey career. Lonnie hesitated at using the word “sacrifice”, instead choosing “privilege”. He spent many of Brek’s early years on the ice with him; it was a cherished time.
“The sacrifice came when he left home at an early age,” Lonnie said. “At 13, he left to train in Toronto. At 14, he made the Northern Alberta Xtreme and begged us to let him go. Watching him walk through an airport at a young age with all of his equipment, it was difficult seeing him leave.”
But that ethic is what it takes to make it to the top in hockey. An alumnus of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, Lonnie said successful players have that drive to succeed and accept they’ll miss many celebrations and events that are part of a normal childhood.
“It takes a really special mindset to accept delayed gratification,” Lonnie said. “He played with Daxon Rudolph (projected 2026 top 10 NHL pick) with the Xtreme, he’s played behind Landon Dupont. When the opportunity came on the first pairing, he proved to the rest of the hockey world that he was ready.”
And Brek knows how fortunate he is.
“It’s unreal that things I’ve dreamed about my whole life are finally coming together,” he said. “It’s unbelievable that I am so far along in my journey. I am very fortunate and don’t take anything for granted.”

Unified Sporting Event gets students in motion

By Jann Perry
The Sunrise School Division celebrated its fourth annual Unified Sporting Event on May 13, bringing together athletes, unified partners, volunteers and staff for a full day of inclusive, high‑energy activities at the Sunrise Education Centre in Beausejour. 
With nearly every school in the division represented, along with invited students from Pinawa in the Whiteshell School District, the event highlighted the power of teamwork, belonging and community spirit.
Approximately 60 students arrived to music, free play, and a division‑wide group photo before rotating through six activity stations. Teams competed in bocce ball, soccer, sprint, modified javelin, shotput and indoor basketball. In addition to the athletic stations, students enjoyed a photo booth, music, downtime activities, a picnic lunch area and plenty of opportunities to cheer on their peers. 
One of the most memorable moments for many was stepping onto the podium to receive a ribbon and pose for a celebratory photo.
The event was supported by an outstanding group of École Edward Schreyer School student volunteers, who led stations, encouraged athletes and kept the energy high throughout the day. Unified partners played a key role in helping athletes participate fully, especially in team‑based events like soccer and basketball.
With gorgeous weather, rocking music, and an atmosphere full of joy and encouragement, this year’s Unified Sporting Event was truly unforgettable. Organizers are already looking ahead to next spring’s event, once again planned for the Sunrise Education Centre.

Springfield talent pipeline for Railer Express

BBy Tony Zerucha
The Transcona Railer Express’ 2025-26 Manitoba Major Junior Hockey League (MMJHL) championship season was due in large part to the contributions of many players from the RM of Springfield. 
After sweeping their first two series, the Railer Express outlasted arch-rival St. Boniface Riels in the maximum seven games.
Head coach and general manager Derek Gagnon said Springfield hockey players are a key part of Railer Express development strategy. While Transcona is growing, it remains smaller than some other areas of the city. With the Oakbank area in the team’s catchment area, Gagnon said he keeps close tabs on the local hockey scene.
But he doesn’t jump at every opportunity.
“You want to find the best players not just in the hockey sense, but finding good people too,” Gagnon explained. “You want them to represent your program well. “We attract a few people, and hopefully, they tell their friends.”
Captain Nolan Van Den Bussche finished fourth in the league with 61 points in 42 regular-season games. He did even better in 15 playoff games, posting 14 goals and 13 assists.
“In that seventh game, Nolan literally carried us on his back,” Gagnon said of Van Den Bussche’s four goals in a 5-0, championship-clinching win.
Gagnon likened assistant captain Kaden Bruchanski and Roan Coe as a defensive pairing to Chris Pronger and Scott Niedermayer in the Anaheim Ducks’ glory days. They play big minutes against top players, with nary a worry from the coaches.
“Roan’s a heart and soul player for us,” Gagnon said. “Even though he didn’t wear a letter, he was a leader for us. Kaden was the top-scoring defenseman in the league and was third overall in playoff scoring.”
Trey Sellen followed up a 15-goal, 48-point regular season with nine goals and 16 assists in the playoffs. Gagnon said Sellen “flips a switch” come playoff time and puts the puck in the net.
Carter Johannesson is another leader without a letter on his sweater. Gagnon said he skates forever and works hard. Declain Whiteman is a sniper. When he’s on top of his game, you can bank on a couple of goals.
“I’ve seen him beat goalies straight up with no screen,” Gagnon said.
Hayden Kochen and Cam Sylvester handled the transition to the MMJHL quite well. Sylvester showed poise around the net, while Kochen used his speed to centre an important line all season.
Goalie Sage Delaronde played all 15 playoff games. He posted a 12-3 record with two shutouts, a 2.11 goals-against average and .927 save percentage. In the regular season, Delaronde went 25-2 with a 1.92 goals-against average, .937 save percentage and four shutouts.
Gagnon said the Railer Express was built around Van Den Bussche, Bruchanski and Johannesson. While those players and four others are moving on, Coe and Whiteman are among those returning. That has Gagnon excited about a strong follow-up to a magical 2025-26.
“We were the team to beat all year,” Gagnon said. “Next year, we’ll be competitive, if not going all the way.”

The Clipper Weekly

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