Submitted by: Michele Poole The Swan School of Dance held their annual recital, on Wednesday March 21st, at the SVRSS Auditorium. In front of a packed house, people were entertained with tap jazz, ballet, hip hop and to top the night off they performed an amazing Bollywood number. Click any picture for a larger version. […]

ValleyBiz Story | Autumn Klekta spotted this robin sitting is a tree outside her window on March 24, 2012. With the weather giving mixed messages regarding the arrival of spring perhaps this sighting is a sign of warmer days to come.

Submitted by: Dennis Medwid The Swan River, Bowsman and Minitonas Lions clubs are now offering a confidential paper and document shredding service with all proceeds going toward Lions projects within the Valley. The Lions Clubs of the Swan Valley have a long history of collecting and promoting recycling within the Valley. The addition of the […]

Songs of the Modern Wild West Submitted by: Nancy McLennan If you’ve never been to Montana, just listen to the music of Martha Scanlan and you are carried into her beloved landscapes. Martha’s post office box is three miles from her ranch cabin. There, she can get a few groceries, but to do a full […]

Submitted by: Jocelyn Beehler (on behalf of CBFCS) Community Bible Fellowship Christian School students Gr.1-8 participated in an online math competition that was open to all schools in the province. The contest involved students answering math questions through an online game called “Sumdog.” 13 schools participated in the 1-week competition. During the contest 340 students […]

Submitted by: Holly Urban & Melissa Johnson Swan Valley Sport Fishing Enhancement Inc. held Family Fishing Day again this year on March 18. The weather was fair, and one Northern Pike was caught by Briar Werbicki. Swan River Elks provided a fabulous hot lunch and hot chocolate. There were 28 kids who attended along with […]

Submitted by: Barry Stephen | If you missed the 15th annual Billy Beal Classic, you missed one of the best ever. If you were there you’ll know what I mean when I say the weather was unbelievable, the conditions were great, the food was awesome and the fishing was pretty good too. Click any picture […]

ValleyBiz Story | Sapotaweyak Cree Nation Chief Nelson Genaille and Swan River Mayor Glen McKenzie signed a Municipal Development and Services agreement on Thursday, March 15, 2012. Members of Sapotaweyak Cree Nation, councilors, youth and members of the public gathered at the Swan River Friendship Centre to witness the signing of the agreement that is […]

Submitted by: Wayne Grier This may be the earliest Swan River Break-up ever. These Photos were taken at 8:30 am March 17, 2012. Click on a picture to see a larger version. Last week people were roaring across this on snowmobiles!!

Condensed version of Chamber Board of Director’s Meeting March 1st meeting The Swan Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors met on March 1st in the Chamber Board room. The agenda, minutes of last meeting and the financial report were adopted. The membership renewal update was reported. It was suggested that a letter be written […]

Submitted by: Micheline Carstairs The Swan Valley Fine Arts Festival Association, Dance Festival began on Thursday evening at the Friendship Centre with the Dolyna Dancers and Benito Vesselli Dancers rivaling it out for top marks. Click any picture for a larger version. It is very interesting to watch all the traditional dances of Ukrain but […]

Submitted by Sharron Carpenter Spring is coming soon and with it thoughts of no more snow, baseball, seeding, warm days and many other things we wait for all winter. Some of us also wait for festival season too. The Fine Arts Festivals gives many people an opportunity to perform on stage. To do this, the […]

Province of Manitoba Media Release ValleyBiz file photo Rapid response will protect Manitoba elk from chronic wasting disease: Mackintosh Manitoba Conservation officials are using plane and helicopter surveillance over part of western Manitoba this week to find and remove up to nine escaped farm elk from Saskatchewan that could threaten to spread chronic wasting disease […]

ValleyBiz Story | The Swan River Skating Club presented Broadway on Ice, Sunday March 11, 2012 at the Swan Valley Centennial Arena. Click any picture for a larger view. The older skaters did a great job presenting their routines with the flair and personality of true Broadway performers. There were “No Worries” as the little […]

PRHA Media Release | Working together with industry partners, the Parkland Regional Health Authority (PRHA) continues efforts to strengthen its Aboriginal health strategy. In conjunction with Aboriginal and Northern Affairs, Manitoba Employment and Training and Manitoba’s Office of Rural and Northern Health, the PRHA will be establishing a Human Resources Office for Aboriginal Employment in […]

A friendly reminder from ValleyBiz that Daylight Savings Time begins tonight. The official time to set your clocks ahead 1 hour is: 2:00 am Sunday, March 11 Set your clock to: 3:00 am Each year, daylight saving time begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.

PRHA Media Release | The Parkland Regional Health Authority (PRHA) is pleased to announce that the cataract surgery program, slated for Swan Valley Health Centre in Swan River, will begin Monday, April 16, 2012. PRHA CEO Kevin McKnight stated that the surgeon, Dr. Robert Beldavs of Winnipeg, will be in Swan River to perform cataract […]

ValleyBiz Story | The Minitonas Figure Skating Club presented their annual figure skating carnival, “Disney on Ice” on Friday, March 2, 2012 at the Minitonas and District Arena. Click any picture for a larger version. The evening was full of endearing Disney songs and characters: From the country flair of Toy Story To the Hawaiian […]

Submitted by Derek Sagert The Swan Valley Snowmobile Association held their 5th Annual Vintage Snowmobile Ride on Saturday, March 3, 2012. It was a beautiful day for all to enjoy. We had a great lunch, lots of laughs, visiting and many great memories. Over 40 vintage machines dated prior to 1990 attended the event.

Province of Manitoba Media Release | Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship recently completed two aerial surveys in west-central Manitoba that show the moose population in the Porcupine and Duck mountain regions remains low but stable. Several factors can influence the number of moose seen during surveys such as snow depth, temperature and time of year. […]

Submitted by: Leona Sweetser | The 33rd Annual Bellsite Poker Derby took place on Sunday, February 26. There were 179 driver hands sold and 297 ghostrider hands sold. Click any picture for a larger version. 1st prize 20% of total Best Hand 4-8’s to Claudia Sutherland $834.00 2nd prize 15% of total Best Hand 3-A’s […]

Submitted by: Leona Sweetser | The first annual Porcupine Bash, started out with a guided snowmobile ride, with approximately 20 people. There were more sledders that chose to ride on their own. Click any picture for a larger view. Fire and Ice, had about 60 people stop in for Chilli and a bun. The home-made […]

Submitted by: Shanna Schroeder | Pictured here is our Minitonas Sharks Team after their second win of the day. Click the picture for a larger version. Left to right, front to back: Jake Bartel, Nate Immerkar, Brooke Foster, Kristen Moshenko, Ella Hart, Sammy Moshenko, Logan Grandfield, Callie Immerkar, Cayden Kovachik, Brayden Bartel, Trae Bateman. Coaches: […]

ValleyBiz Story | A fully licensed and inspected commercial kitchen meeting Provincial food safety standards, will soon be available in Swan River on a fee-per-use basis. The Food Processing Centre is an initiative of the Veteran’s Community Hall with funding from the Government of Manitoba and will be available for use by entrepreneurs looking to […]

Submitted by: Louise Schabert The 5th annual Benito Open Mixed Bonspiel took in 32 rinks.  An age range of 11 to almost 80 participated in the events of the week at the Benito Rec Centre.  A terrific time was had by all. First Event Winners sponsered by the Swan Valley Credit Union L to R […]

ValleyBiz Story | Thanks to the dedication and hard work of our local snowmobile clubs, and with a little help from Mother Nature, the Swan Valley is buzzing with excitement as we share our snow with sledders from the snow-free parts of the Prairies. We are fortunate to have two snowmobile clubs in the Swan […]

Story by: Nancy McLennan | February of 2012 appears to be a turning point for Valley House Concerts. Since the House Concerts began in 2008, over 900 people have attended the shows and professional musicians have earned almost $13,000 in revenue. Pictures by Micheline Carstairs (Click any picture for a larger version) On Wednesday (Feb […]

Submitted by: Barry Waito | The Boots in the Backcountry Introductory session on Monday Feb 13th at 7:00 pm attracted 34 registrants. Of these, 27 were able to make the meeting with the balance requesting to be kept up to date with further sessions. The meeting started with Barry Waito introducing himself, talking about the […]

Submitted by: Florence Gray The Luthern and Anglican ladies got together at the Luthern Church to make quilts for Luthern World Relief. Over the 3 day span (Feb 13-15) about a dozen women worked together using donated material, thread and wool to make 38 quilts. Click any picture for a larger version. First, one team […]

Submitted by: Shelley Cotten Part II of the Swan Valley Human Library took place last week at the Northwest Regional Library in Benito. Tuesday, February 7th, the 5th-8th grades came over from the school and checked out several books. Click any picture for a larger version. Both the “books” and the “readers” seemed to enjoy […]

Submitted by: Janine Stewart | Swan River will soon have a new option for licensed school age child care services. Photo by Caitlin Stewart Heyes Child Care Centre Board of Directors: Kim Kuruliak, Crystal Ross, Robyn Eisner, Janine Stewart, Michelle Eisner (click for a larger version) Heyes Child Care Centre hopes to open its doors […]

ValleyBiz Story | When Gerry Stevenson moved here from The Pas 13 years ago, he turned his passion for sled dog racing into an annual community event. The 13th Annual Birch River Sled Dog Race took place this weekend with 9 teams participating. Click any picture for a larger version. Following a circuit that includes […]

Submitted by: Kamshi Kanavathy | “No boys and no donkeys allowed, go away!” and so did David Copperfield’s Aunt Betsey open the 200th Anniversary Celebration of Charles Dickens at the North-West Regional Library in Swan River last night. Click any picture for a larger version. An entertaining and spectacular portrayal of Aunt Betsey was played […]

Submitted by: Service to Seniors | Service to Seniors were very pleased with the turnout for the Telehealth Heart & Stroke presentation they hosted on Monday, February 6th at the Swan Valley Health Facility. 33 people attended the session that dealt with the signs and symptoms of what has been termed “The Silent Killer.” The […]

Submitted by: Doreen and Doug Windsor St. James Anglican Church hall was filled to capacity on Saturday afternoon, February 4th for its’ very successful Valentine Tea Tasting event. Click any picture for a larger version. Much laughter augmented the fellowship which was enjoyed by each and everyone after they chose from a wide selection of […]

ValleyBiz Story | The local Lions Clubs are getting ready to host the 15th Annual Billy Beal Classic Ice Fishing Derby which is set to take place at Whitefish Lake on Saturday, March 17, 2012 from 12 Noon to 3:00 pm. Proceeds Benefit Swan Valley Residents For those who like to fish, spending the day […]

Submitted by: Bev Leach | The Friends for Grandmothers of Africa were delighted to host nearly forty guests in the North-West Regional Library on January 24. The event was held to express the group’s appreciation for the interest and support which has been given to the Stephen Lewis Foundation by the community and therefore to […]

Submitted by: Swan Valley RISE (204) 734-3668 | Swan Valley Regional Initiative for a Strong Economy (RISE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Shauna Klekta as the Economic Development Officer for the Swan Valley. The Economic Development Officer sets the tone and direction for economic growth and opportunity within a community. Hiring an individual […]

Submitted by: Swan Valley RISE (204) 734-3668 | A new Valley wide initiative has been established to champion economic development in the Swan Valley Region. Swan Valley Regional Initiative for a Strong Economy Inc. (RISE), was established by a group of municipalities who recognized the necessity of an active, strategic approach to economic development. The […]

Swan Valley Recreation and Wellness Centre Media Release | Site preparation for the new Swan Valley Recreation and Wellness Centre is nearing completion and construction is scheduled to begin in the near future. ValleyBiz File Photo With the Town of Swan River taking the lead in the ongoing planning and construction of the Wellness Centre, […]

Perimeter Aviation Announcement | Trevor Ryder, VP Operations of Perimeter Aviation addressed Swan Valley Community Members in the following letter dated January 16, 2012. Perimeter Aviation regrets to inform you that effective Jan 30, 2012; Perimeter will no longer be providing scheduled air service to the Swan River Airport. Perimeter has been extremely impressed by […]

Submitted by: Shelley Cotten | Part One of the first Swan Valley Human Library event took place January 12-14th at the Northwest Regional Library in Swan River. It was a great time! Click any picture for a larger version. There were 15 Human Books available at different times for “checkout” (30 minute conversations/demonstrations) to Readers […]

PHRA Media Release | Parkland International Medical Graduate (IMG) Recruitment Update At present, we have two IMGs who will have completed their one year of training on February 4, 2012. Dr. Wagdi Salib and Dr. Jaswinder Kanwal have begun the process of applying for their conditional registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of […]

The Swan Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive met on January 5th , 2012 at the Chamber of Commerce Board Room. The minutes of the December 1, 2011 meeting were reviewed and approved. President Wayne Grier reported that the Chamber made a presentation to the Highway Traffic Board Hearing on the Chamber’s concern regarding the location […]

Submitted by: Dee-Ann Clarkson | There was a good turn out for Friday night shinny in Minitonas. Everyone had a great time. If you missed out, join in next time. Click for January Dates Click any picture for a larger version.

Submitted by: Florence Gray We had a very good Christmas dinner at St. James Anglican Church on Dec.25. Very well attended with 51 people taking part in the meal. It’s amazing how many people volunteered with food and helping put the meal on the table. Without this help it just wouldn’t happen and the opportunity […]

ValleyBiz Story | The Bowsman Lions Santa Party took place on Thursday, December 22 at the local arena. Santa was on hand to make sure his list was complete and to hear any last minute wishes. Click any picture for a larger view. Family and friends honed their skills and enjoyed good company on the […]

Submitted by: MaryAnn Friesen and Scott Tibble Several valley churches worked together to put on a Live Nativity at Scott and Cindy Tibble’s farm near Benito. There were approximately 90 volunteers and more than 350 people that attended. Click a picture for a larger version. Cars were parked at the parking lot with the help […]

ValleyBiz Story | Mr. & Mrs. Claus made a special appearance in Minitonas during the Downtown Christmas Party on December 16th. Click a picture for a larger version. Hot dogs and hot chocolate were ready at 6pm as people started to arrive. The warmth of the bonfire welcomed young and old to gather round. Santa […]

ValleyBiz Story | It was an afternoon of skating, fun, friends and Santa at the Minitonas Arena on Sunday, December 11. Santa stopped by to hear the kids’ requests and the Lions Club handed out Christmas treat bags. Click any of the pictures for a larger version