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Born on 3 September 1906 in Sinclair, Manitoba, Gunnar Erwin Johnson-Bardal grew uptowering over his peers—reaching an incredible 7’ 4” by age 17. Though briefly misreportedas being from Saskatchewan, Erwin’s remarkable stature and intriguing history made him asensation across provincial borders. Erwin attended Bardal School from 1914 - 1923.Photos Courtesy of Manitoba Historical Society Archiveswww.mhs.mb.caFebruary 2025

Payment OptionsThe RM accepts cash, cheque, debit, e-transfers, and OptionPay. Sign up for monthly automatic withdrawals fortax and utility accounts. Contact Tina -tina@rmofpipestone.comE-Transfer EmailsUtility Billing: utilities@rmofpipestone.comProperty Taxes & Municipal Bills:accounts@rmofpipestone.comReston Golf Club: restongolfclub@gmail.comReston Rec Plex: restonrecplex@gmail.comRecreation & Programming: tara@rmofpipestone.comOffice Hours - Monday - Friday 9:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. Closed 12:00p.m. - 1:00p.m.www.rmofpipestone.com

Brad McGrath, representing the VirdenOilmens, recently presented a $3,000 donationto Garnet Williamson in support of the Reston& Area Veterans Memorial Banner Project.The funds will be used to honor individuals whoserved in the World Wars, particularly thoseveterans who no longer have surviving familymembers to ensure their legacy is remembered.A heartfelt thank-you goes out to the VirdenOilmen’s Golf Tournament committee forrecognizing the significance of this initiative andcontributing to the preservation of ourcommunity’s history.Photo by Kim MacKenzie L-R Brad McGrath, Garnet WilliamsonThanks to everyone who supported the Bud ‘n’Spud fundraiser on Saturday, November 5. Bothsittings sold out well in advance, making theevent a huge success.Several family and class reunions are alreadyplanned, and all groups are invited to join in thefestivities. Whether it’s decorating a float for theparade, entering a team in the slow pitchtournament, or contributing memorabilia fordisplays at the Drop-In, there are plenty of waysto get involved.The park committee is also extending a special invitation to descendants of local veterans toattend the park’s grand opening on Sunday, July 13 2025, following the parade. This event willbe a highlight of the Homecoming celebrations. The committee is hard at work planningactivities, with enthusiastic participation at meetings. “Often, half the fun of attending an eventis being part of the planning.” If you’d like to contribute your ideas or lend a hand, don’thesitate to reach out.Photo by Kim MacKenzie: Barry Hodgins and Kim Davis grillingup steaks during the Bud ‘n’ Spud night in November.Virden Oilmen Support Veteran Banner Project Pipestone Homecoming Bud n Spud Fundraiser

Another year has started for the Pipestone 4-HBeef Club and the club members have been busyplanning already for their Achievement Day inJune and for the town Homecoming in July.We will be celebrating our 85th anniversary as aclub this year. We have 22 members and 5leaders this year. Some things that we havealready done are, feed presentation by AlvinRadcliffe, steer weigh day, skating/pizza party inCromer. We also have planned our communications to beheld in Reston at the end of January. We areplanning a safe animal handling clinic, a judgingclinic, and showmanship/clipping demo daythrough out the rest of the year and much more.Pipestone 4-H Beef Club News Pictured: Pipestone 4-H Beef Members with Alvin RadclifeJoin us on Facebook @Pipestone 4-H Beef Clubfor monthly posts of upcoming events or picturesof past events. Submitted by: Anna and KayleeVan BuurenPictured: Pipestone 4-H Beef Club Christmas Skate in Cromer Rink Reston Golf Club Receives GrantPictured L-R Curtis Callander, Kingston Midstream Reps Lance Bartel andSherri Murray, and Clayton Jago The Reston Golf Course has received agenerous $25,000 donation from KingstonMidstream to support its irrigation project.The funding will be used to modernize thesystem, ensuring better water efficiency andimproved maintenance of the greens. RestonGolf Course Committee would like to thankKingston Midstream for their support ofthis project.More details about the irrigation project willbe featured in the next edition of the RM ofPipestone Newsletter.

Reston School News As we approach the semester change here at Reston School, we have lots to reflect upon and muchto look forward to. We welcomed several new families and staff members to Reston School: MissHamel, Miss Gervin, and Ms. Hayward.Reston School athletics has had a successful start competing in golf, volleyball, hockey, basketball,and badminton so far.Reston School Basketball is off to astrong start with our Highschool Boysteam going undefeated in the first fewgames of the season. Follow ourFacebook page to come cheer on ourstudents!Mrs. Hamel, Reston School musicteacher, delighted our school communitywith an amazing Christmas concertbefore break which showcased a widerange of musical performances. Mrs. Masson has held auditions for“Gossip” – a highschool dramaproduction that will be coming to a stagenear you. Stay tuned for details! Maya Kraning competed at GolfProvincials in September. Our VarsityGirls Volleyball team placed 1st in Zonesand 2nd in Provincials. Brooke Boulton,Caroline McConnell, Halle Duncan,Maya Kraning and Coach Mr. Callanderwere all selected for the Graduating AllStar Volleyball team. Brooke Boultonwas also selected as libero for the AllManitoba team. Pictured: Reston School Varsity Girls Volleyball TeamReston School Student Council is holdingthe “Fresh off the Tree” fundraiser. If you are interested in ordering some delicious oranges orgrapefruits, give the school a call to place your order. Mark your calendar for Reston School 2025Graduation: Friday June 20, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. Follow the Reston School Facebook page forupdates on school and sports events! Submitted by Mrs. Schiltroth. Pictured: Reston School Varsity Boys Basketball Team

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITYWeed Inspector Seasonal Position - April - November The RM of Pipestone is now accepting applications for the seasonal position of Weed Inspector.Duties and responsibilities will include but not limited to the identification and eradication ofweeds in both rural and urban areas per provincial guidelines. For a full job description, pleaseemail hr@rmofpipestone.com. Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is located. Submit your resume and a cover letter to:Human Resources, RM of Pipestone, Box 99, Reston MB, R0M 1X0Email: hrpipestone@rmofpipestone.com; subject line must include position you are applying for.Fax: 204-877-3999We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those being considered for an interviewwill be contacted. Disability accommodations available upon request.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIESRecreation Assistant - Pipestone Albert Recreation Commission The RM of Pipestone is currently accepting applications on behalf of thePipestone Albert Recreation Commission for the seasonal recreation attendant. Summer Student Positions - Pipestone Albert Recreation CommissionThe RM of Pipestone is currently accepting applications on behalf of thePipestone Albert Recreation Commission for the summer student positions. Thisis an exciting opportunity to contribute to our community by planning andleading engaging recreational activities.Summer Green Team Positions - RM of Pipestone The RM of Pipestone is now accepting applications for Summer Green Teampositions. These roles are ideal for individuals seeking hands-on experience inlandscaping, facility maintenance, and community beautification. Positions areavailable to start in May or July, with earlier start dates negotiable.Full Job Advertisement:To view a full job advertisement please visit www.rmofpipestone.com Application Deadline:Resumes will be accepted until noon, March 14, 2025.How to Apply:Submit your resume and a cover letter to:Pipestone Albert RecreationMail: Box 99, Reston, MB, R0M 1X0Email: hrpipestone@rmofpipestone.com; subject line must include position youare applying for.Fax: 204-877-3999We look forward to welcoming talented individuals to our team and thank allapplicants for their interest.

Reston Rockets Hockey Recap The Reston Rockets are well into another exciting hockey season, showcasing talent, determination, andcommunity spirit across all levels of the organization. With five full teams, various combined teams, andseveral players skating with other minor hockey organizations in the area, the Rockets made theirpresence felt on and off the ice.U18 Female Southwest StarsReston has two members who are part of the Southwest Stars out of Deloraine: Maycee and MarenRay. The Stars have a 7-6-0 record and are in third place.U13 Female Virden Jr. Oil CapitalsReston has 5 players playing for the U13 Virden Oil Capitals: Novalee Hack, Harley Cook, BrynnJones, Khloe Volk and Payton Flannery. The girls are currently 13-1-0 in league play and sit first intheir division.U11 Female Border BruinsThere are three Reston players on this year's Border Bruins: Isla Roper, Harper Flannery, and HadleeFlannery, along with coaches Jordan Roper and Ryan Flannery. The Bruins have a regular seasonrecord of 6-10-1, which places them 7th in their league.U15 Virden The Reston U15 boys are split between two Virden teams. Virden R players include: Owen Wray, TysonBoutlon, Jaxon Guthrie, and Harry Whyte. Virden R has a 10-6-0 record which places them third intheir league.Virden C players include: Jasper McKelvey, Liam Davidson, Owen Gray, Blake Gray, and TerranceMcGinnis. Virden C has a 2-10-2 record and they currently sit in 8th place.U13 Reston/Deloraine Royal RocketsThe U13s have a combined team with Deloraine this year. Reston players are: Wyatt Atchison, AsherGray, Jace Guthrie, Novalee Hack, Nolan Harris, Hunter Mitchell, Grayson Paul, Jake Sterling, andAndie Williamson. Reston's coaches are Derrus Gray, Sheldon Guthrie, and Dallas Williamson. TheRoyal Rockets are 8-4-0 and currently sit 3rd in their league.U11 Reston RocketsThe Rockets have a 10-4-1 record this season and are currently in 3rd place in the U11 A Division.Players include: Kashton Brown, Zack Campbell, Asher Clark, Declan Cook, Jack Fraser, Dane Gray,Preston Harris, Brooks Irwin, Colby Paul, Ben Sterling, Corbin Wheelans, and Carter Wheelans.Coaches: Dallas Cook, Kirby Wheelans, and Adam Campbell.Team Highlights

Reston Rockets Hockey Recap Reston U9 RocketsReston has two U9 teams this year. Reston will host the U9 A League Tournament on February 14-16.Team Roper with players: Ashton Crouse, Tucker Gray, Dexton Flannery, Rhett Miliken, Knox Roper,Cole Russell, Scarlett Gray, Lucas Stephenson, and Emma Sterling. The coaches are Rick Stephenson,Jordan Roper, Derrus Gray, and Cody Milliken. Team Roper has a record of 18-0-0 and sits 2nd in theirleague.Team Guthrie includes: Jace Van Buuren, Masyn Mahy, Oliver Gray, Jett Guthrie, Ryder Henderson,Johnny Henderson, Jakob Myles, Hunter Vickers, and Mack Shand. The coaches are: Tyler Henderson,Corby Henderson, Braeden Gray, and Sheldon Guthrie. Team Guthrie has a record of 19-0-0 and iscurrently first in the league.U7 Reston RocketsU7 plays games and tournaments in the surrounding communities. The U7s are having a successfulseason developing their skills and working on teamwork through the season. U7 players include: LarkinBoulton, Jordan Dion, Emmett Fischer, Hunter Halls, Tommy Halls, Daysen Henderson, Cal Milliken,Sutton Roper, Renee Schiltroth, and Emerson Mason. Coaches are: Corby Henderson, Jordan Roper,Cody Milliken, and Sean Halls.SnowflakesThis year there was enough interest to start a Snowflake team in town. The players have worked veryhard developing their skating and hockey skills and love to get out on the ice. The Snowflakes played ahandful of games, and have improved each time they are on the ice. Snowflake players include: AdalynPoirier, Alivia Campbell, Beau Vinck, Gavin Fischer, Hayes Greig, Hudson Mahy, Ivy Desautels,Lincoln Green, Lucy Wheelans, Maddox Greig, Zooey Roblin, and Reid Sterling. The coaches are veryexcited to see this group of players continue on their hockey journey. Coaching this year's Snowflaketeam is Jaclyn Sterling, Karlin Desautels, Brittany Desautles, Cam Greig, Tyson Roblin, AdamCampbell, and Keegan Vinck.As the season winds down, the players, coaches, and families would like to thank everyone in thecommunity who supported them this season. Good luck in the rest of your season Rockets!

Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14th, but what year did Manitobaofficially join Canada as a province?Which romantic Manitoba city is known as the “Gateway to the West”?What Manitoba provincial park, popular for romantic getaways, is home toClear Lake?Which Manitoba animal, often seen in romantic snowy landscapes, mates forlife?What small Manitoba town has a heart-shaped island in its provincial park,perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day story?Valentine’s Day often falls in the middle of a Manitoba winter. What iconicManitoba winter event often runs around this time?M A NI T O B A T H E ME D V A L E N T I N E ’ S T R I VI AValentine's DayAnswers will be in the March NewsletterJoin the RM of Pipestone Emergency Measures TeamWe’re looking for passionate dedicated volunteers tohelp strengthen our Municipal Emergency MeasuresPlan. If you’re ready to make a difference, considerstepping into one of these vital roles. For more information contact the RM Office at 204-877-3327 or stop by!

Rural Municipality of Pipestone Grants The Rural Municipality of Pipestone is committed to supporting local recreation andcultural initiatives through three key grant programs. These programs aim to enhancemunicipal and community infrastructure, encourage fundraising efforts, and providesupport for new equipment and improvements. Here’s how each initiative works:Capital Projects GrantThe Capital Projects Grant is designed to assist organizations with building construction orimprovements. Each year, the municipality allocates a specific amount in its capital budget,funded through the Building Reserve, for this purpose. Municipal recreation and culturalentities are given priority, but non-municipally owned buildings may also be consideredbased on merit. Once the allocated funds are distributed, no additional applications will beconsidered for that year. This program helps ensure that high-priority construction orimprovement projects are funded to meet the needs of the community.In 2024, the Capital Grant supported the Reston Rec Plex Canteen with a grant of$100,000. Additionally, commitments totaling $86,000 have been made to projects at theSinclair Park, Pipestone Campground, Pipestone Memorial Park, Cromer Rink, and RestonMinor Ball Canteen, with these exciting projects slated for completion in 2025.Recreation GrantThe Recreation Grant supports smaller-scaleprojects that fall outside the scope of theCapital Projects Grant. Funded through theGeneral Reserve, this grant is intended fornew equipment purchases or facilityimprovements. It also serves as a safety netfor capital projects that cannot realisticallyraise 75% of their required funds but areconsidered a priority by Council. Thisprogram ensures that essential recreationupgrades and enhancements are achievableeven for organizations facing financialconstraints.In 2024, the Recreation Grant awarded$3,020.34 to the Scarth Community Club tosupport facility improvements.Facebook Photo: Community members gather forbreakfast at the Scarth Community Hall Facebook Photo: Scarth Community Hall

Fundraising Support 5:1 GrantThe Fundraising Support Grant is an innovative program designed to encourage user groups andrecreation facilities to actively fundraise. For every $5 raised by an eligible organization, the RM ofPipestone will contribute $1 in grant support, up to a maximum of $10,000. This programincentivizes grassroots fundraising efforts while providing additional financial support to helporganizations cover program, event, and operational expenses.In 2024, the RM awarded $4,880.44 in FundraisingSupport Grants to local organizations:Pipestone Skating Rink: $1,265.70Reston Rec Plex: $1,290.88Reston Memorial Theatre: $608.23Reston Golf Club: $1,531.72Reston District Library: $183.91Council had budgeted $20,000 for this initiative, with significant funds going toward projects thatdirectly benefit the Municipality.Facebook Photo: Cromer Rink Kitchen RenovationsA Commitment to Community GrowthThese grant programs highlight the RM of Pipestones' dedication to fostering recreation and culturalopportunities for its residents. By funding construction, improvements, and operational support,these initiatives ensure that local facilities remain vibrant, sustainable, and accessible to all.Residents and organizations are encouraged to explore these programs and contribute to thedevelopment of a thriving community. For more information or to apply, contact the RM ofPipestone office.Photo submitted: Sinclair Cookhouse Project Facebook Photo: Cromer Skating Rink Support Community Recreation and Development

Pipestone Albert Fire Department Receives GrantPictured: Tundra Oil and Gas Rep Avery Brigden, Pipestone Albert Fire Department member Dean Brooker, KingstonMidstream Reps Sherri Murray and Lance Bartel, and Pipestone Albert Deputy Chief Aaron Smith

RM of Pipestone Newsletter Now Monthly!The RM of Pipestone Newsletter will now bepublished monthly! We’re looking for yourcontributions—submit articles and photos tonewsletter@rmofpipestone.com to be featured.Share your stories, events, and community updateswith us! Stay tuned for the next issue!

RM of Pipestone FoodCycler Program The RM of Pipestone has partnered withFoodCycle Science to help residents reducefood waste through an innovative FoodWaste Diversion Program. As part of the initiative, citizens can purchaseFoodCyclers at a discounted rate, making iteasier to compost food scraps efficiently. So far, 86 residents have joined the programand are two-thirds of the way through the 12-week initiative. Supplies are still available,with both the Eco 3 and Eco 5 models readyfor purchase, but quantities are limited. Contact the RM office if you’d like moreinformation on the FoodCycler Program. Tolearn more about how the machine worksvisit www.foodcyclescience.com.

Reston District Library Programs Lego Club: Tuesdays 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Moms and Tots: Thursdays, 10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Scrabble Club: Thursdays 1:30–3:30 p.m. Book Club: Monthly meetings.

Place Your Ad HereEmail: newsletter@rmofpipestone.com

U9 League Hockey TournamentReston Rec Plex February 14 -16 2025Did You Know?Moose are the largest member ofthe deer family and the tallestmammal in North America.

The Pipestone Memorial Park projectwas a recipient of $5,318 from the SunriseCredit Union Building CommunitiesGrant Program. The park project wasone of four selected from 50 applicationsreceived for their fall grant program. Thenews release from Sunrise stated thePipestone Park project has revitalized avacant lot into an attractive, inclusivegreen space, and is a testament to theprogram’s contributions to communitydevelopment. The park’s centerpiece, thecenotaph, symbolizes the community’scommitment to preserving history.Pipestone Memorial Park News On December 5th a cheque was presented to committee members, Kim MacKenzie, Kim Davis andWiley Gilliard by Bruce Luebke, Community Engagement Coordinator along with Lindsay Boultonand Teresa Vandenberghe of Sunrise Credit Union Reston Branch. The Pipestone Memorial ParkCommittee would like to thank Sunrise Credit Union for believing in and supporting this project.Photo submitted L-R Lindsay Boulton, Mgr Reston Branch Sunrise Credit Union,Kim Davis, Kim MacKenzie, Wiley Gilliard, Teresa Vandenberghe, Bruce LuebkeSinclair Local Improvement District The Sinclair Local Improvement District has received agenerous $7,500 donation from Tundra Oil and Gas tosupport the Sinclair Park bathroom project. Thisfunding will contribute to the development of parkamenities, improving the experience for both visitorsand the local communityCouncillor Gary Nicholson accepted the donation onbehalf of the Sinclair Local Improvement District.Presenting the cheque was Avery Brigden, arepresentative of Tundra Oil and Gas.“We’re incredibly grateful to Tundra Oil and Gas fortheir contribution,” said Councillor Nicholson. “Thissupport will help us move forward with the project andcreate a better space for everyone in Sinclair to enjoy.”Pictured: Councillor Gary Nicholson (left) accepts a $7,500donation from Tundra Oil and Gas representative AveryBrigden (right) for the Sinclair Park bathroom project.

The library has added a new collection of large print books,perfect for readers who prefer larger text. You’ll also find adultfiction, non-fiction, biographies, audio books, and referencematerials. For those with print disabilities, the library offersCELA audio stories and a loanable audio player.New Titles for AdultsBackwater Justice by Fern Michaels - MysteryThe Dark Wives by Ann Cleeves – Mystery ThrillerA Love Discovered, Heart of Cheyene #1 – Christian fiction by Traci PetersonWe Solver Murders by Richard Osman, a new stand-alone book by the author of The ThursdayMurder Club – Cosy-Mystery ThrillerFlash Back by Iris Johansen, Roy Johansen – Romance, Mystery ThrillerPlayground by Richard Powers – Science fictionThe Last Wagon Train by William W. Johnstone, J.A. Johnstone - WesternCher – Biography, Book One.New Kids’ BooksLevel 2 – Curious George, Scavenger Hunt by H.A. ReyLevel 2- Arfy Has a Ball by Troy CummingsOff & Away by Cale AtkinsonYou are Not Sleepy! By Mark TeagueGood Night Baseball by Michael DahlThe Ways We Say “I Love You” by Caroline HadilaksonoLevel 1 – There Was an Old Lady Who Built a Snowman! By Lucille ColandroNew Junior Books - Ages 7-12The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science by Kate McKinnonThe Batboy by Mike LupicaThe Puppy Place – Biggie by Ellen MilesPress Start! Game Over, Super Rabbit Boy! Book One by Thomas FlinthamOwl Diaries – The Olympic Games, #20 by Rebecca ElliottSwan – The Girl Who Grew by Sigura Ludwig, The Anna Swan storyGeronimo Stilton Reporter– Blackrat’s TreasureI Survived the Black Death, 1348 by Lauren TarshisReston District Library Stop By and Explore! New books are added often, and suggestions are always welcome. Drop in to see what’s new and join in on the fun!Tuesday - Friday 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.Closed 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.