Submitted by: Beverley Leach Over forty participants attended the Alzheimer / Dementia presentation at St. James Anglican Church hosted by Service to Seniors on Thursday, January 23, 2014. Click any picture for a larger version. The very informative presentation by Laurie Church, Parkland Regional Coordinator of the Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba, was very much appreciated […]

ValleyBiz Story | Prairie Mountain Health has confirmed that a new physician will be establishing a medical practice in Swan River. Dr. Seyed Sarsari is in the final stages of completing his requirements within the International Medical Graduate (IMG) Assessment Program in order to obtain his conditional license from the Manitoba College of Physicians and […]

Submitted by: Donna Burghart On Sat. January 25, 2014 the Bowsman Legion hall was filled with some great tunes to raise funds for the Bowsman School BAM fiddle & guitar program. Maclyn Burghart (left) showcased her skills on the mandolin.Click any picture for a larger version. Three generations of Lagace’s entertained the crowd with their […]

Submitted by: Corey Hurren On Thursday night, January 16, 2014 is when 19 snowmobile riders and their support drivers came into Swan River as part of the trail of the Lion’s “Journey for Sight”. Pictured above JFS Committee Chair Ian Mullin (centre) with his father John Mullin (left) and brother David Mullin (right). All three […]

Submitted by: Jayne Leadbeater The “Soup & Bun Lunch,” held Friday, 17 January 2014 by the Swan River St. Andrew’s United Church, at the Veterans Hall, was well attended. The patrons joined the event at a steady pace for the 2.5 hours it was held. Click any picture for a larger version. The crowd enjoyed […]

Submitted by: Shirley Todosichuk Special Olympics Manitoba Parkland Region would like to thank everyone who purchased tickets for our 50/50 Christmas Cash Draw. The lucky winner of $890 was Ethel Robinson. Click picture for larger version. Presenting the cheque to Ethel’s daughter, Candace Mattson are Tiger Bowlers; Nicholas Sloane, Justin Ames, Sarah Grauman and Jamie […]

Province of Manitoba Media Release | The Manitoba government is investing almost $55 million to maintain and improve more than 100 schools throughout the province, Education and Advanced Learning Minister James Allum announced today at Dakota Collegiate, where nearly $4 million in work is underway to expand the gymnasium, renovate science labs, upgrade the roof […]

Submitted by: Beverley Polon | Swan Valley Communities That Care (SVCTC) wishes to thank members of the Swan Valley Community for their generous donations to the Swan Valley CTC Toys 4U Toy Drive. Click any picture for a larger version. This includes the many gifts that were received in our donation boxes located at different […]

ValleyBiz Story | Santa stopped by the Down Town Christmas party in Minitonas on Friday, December 20, 2013 to hear some last minute requests from the children and spread some Christmas Cheer. Click any picture for a larger version. Kids bundled up to join in the old time Christmas spirit, adorning the ground with a […]

Submitted by: Karon Harness | The Swan Valley Museum was a busy place from December 16-19, 2013 a troop of volunteers helped prepare this year’s hampers. Click any picture for a larger version. The Swan Valley Christmas Cheer Board delivered 51 hampers this year (amounting to 170 people receiving a little extra help this Holiday […]

Province of Manitoba Media Release | A $56-million highway upgrade that includes significant resurfacing and repaving to new national highway standards, as well as a new bridge, will make PTH 10 safer and ease congestion from Riding Mountain National Park north to Swan River, Municipal Government Minister Stan Struthers announced. The minister made the announcements […]

ValleyBiz Story | On December 11, 2013 a large crowd from the community stopped by The SHOP Minitonas Inc. to welcome business owner Darryl Woodson, check out the new look and celebrate the Grand Opening with a complementary beef on a bun, specials and prizes. Click any picture for a larger version. The newly renovated […]

Submitted by: Leigh Osatchuk | The Benito School Leadership Council spearheaded the Benito & District Christmas Hamper Project. Click any picture for a larger version. With only two short weeks to organize and collect donations the children and staff leaders did a tremendous job finding their Christmas Spirit. Businesses and personal donations poured in from […]

Submitted by: Bev Lumax | Swan River Royal Purple Lodge # 185 again served up some awesome Christmas baking. Over 50 boxes and 20 Christmas puddings were purchased. Funds from this endeavor will help support various activities in the community.

Submitted by: Donna Burghart | On November 29, 2013 the Bowsman School BAM fiddle program had guest instructor Donna Turk from Calgary, AB instruct workshops in the afternoon. Click any picture for a larger version. Pictured above is first year fiddler, Damien Stevens getting some help with his bow hold. The advanced group got instruction […]

Submitted by: Jayne Leadbeater Swan Valley Community Band started Sept. 1994, after our director, Julie Kooistra placed an ad in the Star & Times for those interested in playing again. Click any picture for a larger version. The beginning numbers were small, about 15, but has swelled to a steady number in the last 7-8 […]

Submitted by: Tammy Zaretsky-Denischuk The Dolyna Dancers once again danced to a filled SVRSS Cafeteria this past Tuesday evening, during their 3rd Annual Old Fashion Christmas Concert! Friends and family were entertained by our dancers’ newest dances, instructed by Joe Synk and new to our instructional team, Kelsa Ewashko. A number of Traditional Ukrainian Carols […]

ValleyBiz Story | With the opening of the Richardson Recreation and Wellness Centre just around the corner, everything is starting to come together. Our update includes a recent look inside the facility and a new announcement on the funding making it happen. Click any picture for a larger version. On Friday, November 29, 2013 Agriculture, […]

ValleyBiz Story | Dr. Andy Maxwell was at The Green Brier book store in Swan River on Saturday, November 30 and Monday, December 2, 2013 to sign copies of his new book, The Swan Valley Wellness Project. Click picture for a larger version. The book explores Dr. Maxwell’s vision for a wellness multi-plex promoting the […]

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 […]