Submitted Story | Rev Dr. Jenny Sprong arrived in Swan River on October 30, 2013 where she will be serving the community as the new Pastor at St. Andrews United Church. Rev Dr. Jenny Sprong (left) with Prof Sarojini Nadar. Click Picture for larger version. Jenny Sprong was born and raised in Johannesurg, South Africa. […]

Submitted by: Gillian McGrath The St. Andrews United Church Fall Supper held on Sunday, December 1, 2013 saw nearly 500 visitors through the doors to enjoy the roast beef dinner with all the trimmings. Click any picture for a larger version.

ValleyBiz Story | The Swan Valley Chamber of Commerce counted down to Midnight Madness on Saturday, November 30, 2013 with Christmas carols, visits with Santa, hot dogs & hot chocolate and the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Click any picture for a larger version. Those who stopped by to share in the holiday spirit appreciated […]

Submitted by: Swan Valley Settlement and Immigrant Services The festival of trees saw well over 100 people through the doors during the two days. There were 11 trees and 21 gingerbread cottages. Click any picture for a larger version. 1st prize tree went to the Communities in Bloom entry. 1st prize gingerbread went to KA […]

Submitted by: Tanya Powell Great weekend for the Swan River Bantam team as they took first place in their home tournament. They won 5-2 over Yorkton Dr Auto, and went undefeated all weekend with some very close games. Click any picture for a larger version. Dave Powell Bantam coach said that he would like to […]

Submitted by: Jakki Lumax It was amazing to see the Holiday spirit at the Christmas Trade Show that took place at the Minitonas Town Hall on Saturday, November 23, 2013 Between the companies displaying their products and the buyers getting excited to cross items off their lists, it was a day of smiles and business […]

ValleyBiz Story | Ten Thousand Villages came to Swan River again this year selling artisan-crafted personal accessories, home decor and gift items from around the globe. Click any picture for a larger version. The products are sourced from handicraft and agricultural organizations based in low-income countries, providing consumers with products that have been fairly purchased […]

Submitted by: Barb Holms The tea and bake sale held at Knox United Church in Minitonas on Saturday, November 23, 2013 was very well attended. The loud buzz of happy voices in the basement made it apparent that everyone was enjoying themselves. Click any picture for a larger version. Pie and tea/coffee were a welcome […]

Submitted by: Lloyd Gilchrist | Three appreciative audiences enjoyed the Valley Stage Players’ weekend production of Norm Foster’s comedy, Office Hours at Swan River’s Veterans Community Hall. Click any picture for a larger version. Friday night’s performance was presented in partnership with the Community Foundation of Swan Valley who sponsored the evening as a dinner […]

ValleyBiz Story | On Saturday, November 23, 2013 the Swan Valley Food Bank held a come and go tea in honor of Bruce and Ursula Taylor who are retiring after more than 16 year of volunteering for the food bank. Click any picture for a larger version. Many people from around the valley stopped by […]

Submitted by: Teresa McKay Friday evening, Nov. 22, was an excellent evening at the Veteran’s Community Hall in Swan River. The dinner theatre evening was hosted by the Swan Valley Community Foundation in partnership with the Valley Stage Players. Many enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by Dianne Simms Catering, followed by an entertaining presentation by […]

ValleyBiz Story | The Annual Cookie walk was held at the St. James Anglican Church on Saturday, November 23, 2013. Not only was it a great way to stock up on Christmas baking, but also a chance to catch up with good friends while sampling some baking. Click any picture for a larger version. The […]

ValleyBiz Story | The Swan Valley Historical Museum held their turkey shoot on on November 16, 2013. Frozen turkeys are the prize – not the target at the this annual fundraising event. Click any picture for a larger view. The event is a fun for people of all ages, a challenge for experienced shooters and […]

Submitted by Carolyn Gordon | The Minitonas Lions teamed up with local residents, business owners and put on a supper to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Minitonas Community Store. Click any picture for a larger version. Although the current owners, Barry & Connie Waito, have only owned the business for the past 2 years, […]

Province of Manitoba Media Release| On November 15, 2013, the Manitoba government today celebrated a significant milestone as it welcomed 14 new communities to the Age-Friendly Manitoba Initiative for a total of 100, Healthy Living and Seniors Minister Sharon Blady has announced. Communities joining the Age Friendly Manitoba Initiative include RM of Birtle, Town of […]

Submitted by: Shirley Yaschyshyn On Saturday, November 16, 2013 the Benito Recreation Centre and the Shaker Misto Dance Club hosted a Harvest Celebration Supper and Dance. Click any picture for a larger version. The evening started off with a delicious meal of perogies, cabbage rolls, beet niks, stuffed pork loin, mushroom and sweet and sour […]

Submitted by: MaryAnn Friesen A great turnout and a wonderful evening. Imported goods, mostly from Thailand and also some donated locally made items, were sold throughout the evening. Click any picture for a larger version. Proceeds went to support Destiny Rescue and Beyond Borders, two organizations that are working hard to put an end to […]

Submitted by: Judy Biech | The Lenswood Hall was vibrating with good music and good times on Sat. Nov. 16, 2013 at the annual Harvest wind-up dance. Click a picture for a larger version. A large crowd of folks, of all ages, from all over the valley & beyond danced to the lively music of […]

Pictures submitted by: Scott Swaiko | The 2013, Rotary Radio Auction was once again a great success. On Thursday, November 7, 2013 people across the Valley tuned in to GX94 radio with phone in hand to place their bid. Click any pictures for a larger version. Rotary members manned the phones and auction board to […]

ValleyBiz Story | On a bitter cold Remembrance Day morning, RCMP, Cadets and Veterans marched down Veterans Way in Swan River to pay tribute to those who paid the ultimate price in service to our country. Click any picture for a larger version. After making their way from the Veterans Community Hall to the Cenotaph, […]

ValleyBiz.ca Story | Many shoppers made their annual stop at Calico Corners on Friday, November 1, 2013. The Craft Sale & Bazaar, hosted by the Association for Community Living was filled with friendly faces and unique hand crafted treasures. MaryAnn Friesen sold items to raise money for Destiny Rescue, an organization dedicated to rescuing children […]

Submitted by: Swan Valley RISE Swan Valley RISE, along with Prairie Mountain Health, would like to thank all of the community sponsors and volunteers that helped make the U of M Medical Student Rural Interest Group trip a huge success. Cash Sponsors Kinsmen Club of Swan River RBC Royal Bank Swan River Lions Club Swan […]

Submitted by: Debbie Soloway On Sunday November 3rd the Pine River United Church sponsored their annual Christmas Craft Sale, bake sale and luncheon. Click any picture for a larger version. There were 23 exhibitors that came from as far as Churchbridge & Sturgis, SK, Barrows, Swan River, Dauphin, Gilbert Plains and surrounding area. Many different […]

Submitted by: Jessica Lacasse Hope you had a chance to visit Swan Valley Community’s That Care Spooktober Fest Haunted House! It was a great event which offered a Halloween experience for all ages. Click any picture for a larger version. Over 1000 visitors attended Spooktoberfest over three days. The event offered a parent and tot […]

Province of Manitoba Media Release | MANITOBANS RECOGNIZED FOR DEDICATION TO COMMUNITY, SENIORS Healthy Living and Seniors Minister Sharon Blady today acknowledged those who make exceptional contributions to the lives of older Manitobans as she joined Dave Schellenberg, Manitoba Council on Aging (MCA) acting chair, to present the MCA Recognition Awards. “These awards recognize the […]

ValleyBiz Story | The Minitonas & District Arena held their annual Skate-A-Thon fundraising event on Sunday, October 27, 2013. Approximately 50 skaters participated, raising over $2,500 for the arena. Click any picture for a large version. The kids had a great time skating, then took some time to rest, visit and snack on the hot […]

Submitted by: Debbie Soloway The Pine River Community Centre hosted a special coffee house on October 26th, 2013 that included great entertainment and talented performers. Click any picture for a larger version. The afternoon started off with introductions, organizer Debbie Soloway introduced Honorable W. Yvon Dumont as the MC for the event (Past Lieutenant Governor […]

Submitted by: Irene Hartwig | There were Pumpkins, Mice, Spies, and Scarecrows, just to name a few of the creatures that came out to dance and visit during the Swan Valley Air Cadets’ Halloween Dance on Friday, October 25th. Click any picture for a larger version. Our DJ, Tim Kemash, who is a former Air […]

Submitted by: Patty Gattinger On Saturday, October 26th the Swan Valley Ducks Unlimited committee hosted their 32nd Annual Banquet and Auction at the War Veterans Community Hall. In 2013 we are also celebrating the 75th anniversary of Ducks Unlimited in Canada. Click any picture for a larger version. About 180 guests were greeted to a […]

Submitted by: Paull Funeral Home On Wednesday October 16th, 2013 Paull Funeral Home held their first annual “Fall Lantern Lighting Ceremony”. Click any picture for a larger version. The Lantern Lighting Ceremony was a celebration of remembrance for those who have passed away not only in the 2013 year but also for those passed away […]

Submitted Story A very successful Sorority 35th Birthday Party was held on Sunday, October 20, 2013 Approximately 25 people attended. Pictured left are the present members Preceptor Kappa Chapter Click the picture for a larger version. Diana Taylor, Susan Singh, Crystal Hart, Angie Hinchliffe, & Erin Hodgson were the door prize winners. Woman of the […]

Submitted by: Tammy Webster The Parkland AAA Bantam’s were able to sweep their way through the Melville tournament with a perfect 4-0-0 record. Click the picture for a larger version. Parkalnd VS Estevan 10-4 WIN Parkland VS Melville 7-4 WIN Parkland VS Regina Roxes 6-4 WIN A Side Final Parkland VS Yorkton 7-3 WIN Players […]

Prairie Mountain Health Media Release | On October 18-20th, 46 medical students that are enrolled in the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Medicine participated in a weekend workshop-aimed at highlighting the benefits of practicing medicine in rural communities. Click any picture for a larger version. The trip was organized by the Medical School’s Rural Interest […]

Submitted by: Corinna Wood A fundraiser was held on October 12th to raise money to help pay the fees for the adoption of a special needs boy from Eastern Europe. The Janzen sisters entertained us with fiddle music throughout the day and raised over $30 that way, which they then donated. The event was very […]

ValleyBiz Story | The 10th Annual Bowsman Bullarama put on by the Bowsman and District Lions Club was an awesome event. Watch some of the highlights in the videos below. The Wild West Shootout is a must see – even if you saw it in person. Videos Submitted by: Kevin Penner. Wild West Shootout Main […]

Submitted by: Town of Minitonas The East Favel River Bridge has been reopened to public. The Minitonas Town Council would like to thank the residents, local business owners, and general public for their patience during the last 3 1/2 weeks since vandals set fire to the Favel River Bridge on 2nd Avenue in the Town […]

Submitted by: Lion Corey Hurren | Despite rumours of wanted outlaw “Bad Bart” coming there to cause trouble, well over four hundred people took their chances and came to the Bowsman Curling Rink to enjoy the Old Western Family BBQ on Saturday, October 5, 2013. Click any picture for a larger version. The Wild West […]

ValleyBiz Story | The Bowsman and District Lions Club hosted an Old Western Family Steak BBQ and Saloon on Saturday, October 5, 2013. The event included wagon rides, live music and dancing, a saloon and a wild west show. Click any picture for a larger version. Kids played cowboy on a rocking horse and poeple […]

Submitted by: Parkland Family Medicine Unit | The Parkland Family Medicine Unit, based in Dauphin, is a training site of the University of Manitoba, Department of Family Medicine. The Parkland unit hosts residents in their first and second years of family medicine residency training, alongside medical students and physician assistant trainees. The academic year starts […]

Submitted by: Jocelyn Beehler A small committee started with a vision (last fall) to install a disc golf course in Benito. That vision is now a reality. The grand opening for the Shaker City Disc Golf Course was July 20th and the sport has caught attention of Benito residents. At the grand opening there were […]

Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship reports the following enforcement activities. Moose Poaching in Swan River Area On the evening of Sept. 30, a bull moose was shot in Game Hunting Area 13A south of Birch River, approximately two kilometres east of PTH 10. This area is temporarily closed to moose hunting to ensure sustainable moose […]

Submitted by: Lloyd Gilchrist | The Swan Valley Hoedowners Square Dance club got the new season rolling on Wednesday by welcoming several new dancers to their weekly dance. Click any picture for a larger version. Caller Linda Gilchrist began the evening by putting all the dancers in a large circle and explaining and practicing some […]

ValleyBiz Story | On September 28, 2013, members of the Swan River Trap Club held their Annual Turkey Shoot which raises funds for the club. The annual trap shoot provides the opportunity for people to come out and take a shot at winning a turkey or a ham. Click any picture for a larger version. […]

Submitted by: Sherry Martin | Swan Valley Animal Protection League’s second annual Banquet and Fundraiser was once again a huge success, with a large crowd in attendance for a great dinner catered by Verneece Eggie and her hardworking crew. Click any picture for a larger version. Special guest speaker Doug Speirs, humour columnist for the […]

Valley Biz Story | On Friday, September 28, 2013 many friends and Minitonas residents stopped by Robb Motors for coffee, donuts and conversation, and to fill up one last time before the current owner retires. Click any picture at a larger version. For Bill Robb Jr. retirement is bittersweet. While he looks forward to having […]

Submitted by: Erin Hodgson | The Wonderbra Barbies is a group of local girls (Caitlynd Sutherland, Kristy Ashcroft, Erin Hodgson, Saree Parker, Taryn Cords, Kiera Floyde) who participate in the Run for the Cure in Brandon each year. Click any picture for a larger view. On Thursday, September 26, the Wonderbra Barbies hosted Shake It […]

Submitted by: Isabelle Lyons The CNIB tea and bake sale was held on Sat, Sept in Benito Legion hall sponsored by the Benito Legion Aux. $760.00 was raised with all the proceeds going to CNIB. Click any picture for a larger version. The door prize was won by Elaine Josephson of Benito. The first Food […]

Submitted by: Christine Marek-Matejka | Home Routes is proud to present an eclectic mix of superb professional musicians from across our great country and beyond. Left: Acoustic blues artists, Hills and Lemelin, throw it down on Sunday afternoon at the Matejka’s. Click picture for a larger version. With the fall season upon us, community volunteers […]

ValleyBiz Story | On Friday, September 20, grandmothers, teachers, family and friends joined students from the Swan Valley Regional Secondary school on a walk to raise awareness about the exploitation of children. Click any picture for a larger version. The walk also served as show support for the students in the Swan Valley. “Many students […]

Submitted by: Angela Mullin Swan Valley Co-op, Swan Valley Stampeders Booster Club & The Swan Valley Stampeders hosted a successful season opener tailgate party. Click any picture for a larger version. The Stamps season opened with a tailgate party at the Centennial arena parking lot, sponsored by Swan Valley Co-op. Hot Dogs & Drinks were […]