Dawson Trail Dispatch August 2020

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Co-op Donates to Interpretive Historical Site in Richer

Richer Community Club members and volunteers were on hand as Henry Nickel, General Manager of Clearview Co-op (second from left) visited the Dawson Trail Park with a big cheque in hand. The $68,000 is going towards creating a historical interpretive site in the park. The small reproduction of a general store will be part of the interactive interpretive historical display at Richer’s Dawson Trail Park.

The Richer Community Club is eagerly looking forward to completing their next project now that they have received funding through the Co-op Community Places program.

On July 15, Clearview Co-op General Manager Henry Nickel presented a cheque to the Richer Community Club for $68,000 as part of their partnership

with the Richer Community Club to help create a place where visitors can take part in an interactive learning experience.

“We’re beyond excited to help fund the Interpretive Historical Site and Market through Co-op Community Spaces,” said Clearview Co-op General Manager Henry Nickel. “Investing in our commu-

nity is a value of our Co-op, and we’re proud to be part of this program that’s investing in projects to improve communities across western Canada.”

The funds will be used to create an Interpretive Historical Site including a “trading post”, tee-pees, general store, and a pergola featuring a bronze plaque Continued on Page 3...

August 2020

Classes Resume in the Fall

By Marianne Curtis All students in kindergarten through Grade 12 will be returning to the classroom starting September 8 after being suspended this spring due to COVID-19.

Education Minister Kelvin Goertzen said that the province has been working with public health and the school division to devise a return to school plan before making the call to resume classes.

“The best place for students is in class, giving them the full benefits of the tremendous work of Manitoba teachers and providing parents and caregivers with certainty that their children are receiving the best education possible,” said Goertzen. “Divisions have been working diligently this summer on their individual plans for September, and are refining details for communication, screening, hand hygiene, physical distancing, the use of cohorts and outbreak management to be followed at every one of their schools.”

Learning in classrooms will be full-time for students in kindergarten through Grade 8 and for specialneeds students in all grades, with five days of instruction per week. Some remote learning may be required for students in grades 9 to 12, based on the ability of high schools to implement necessary public health measures including physical distancing and the use of cohorts (designated groups of students) to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and to support contact tracing.

Three response levels have been developed to ensure that school divisions and schools are prepared to roll back from in-class learning based on public health advice. Divisions must ensure that all students learning remotely have access to technology.

The province developed the Welcoming Our Students Back: Restoring Safe Schools guidelines along with the province’s kindergarten to Grade 12 COVID19 response planning team, as well as with school divisions and public health officials.

Manitoba school divisions and schools will follow these provincial guidelines and are expected to finalize and post division plans by mid-August. Accessible and transparent information is important as students, staff and families will have questions about COVID19 and returning to in-class learning.

Goertzen noted that the Department of Education and Families are also working with the child care sector to ensure that families can access child-care within schools, and work together to develop guidelines for children with special needs and children at risk.

August 2020

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Multi Vehicle Collision on Trans Canada

STARS landed on the highway at the scene of a multi vehicle accident on the Trans Canada Highway and PR 302 at Richer.

At approximately 5:18 pm on July 27 Steinbach RCMP were dispatched to an accident involving 3 vehicles, one being a parked ATV, on the Trans Canada Highway and PR 302 at Richer.

Police learned that the driver of the Toyota HIXL a man, aged

Photo by Mackenzie Guetre

60 was proceeding westbound on Highway #1 when a Kia Sportage driven by a 23-year old female from the RM of Stuartburn cut across and collided with the Toyota.

The ATV that was parked with 2 riders was hit when the Kia ended up resting in the ditch after the collision. The riders did not suffer any

injuries. The Toyota driver also did not suffer any threatening injuries.

The 15 year old Kia female passenger was airlifted via STARS with non life threatening injuries. The Kia driver was arrested for Driving While over 80 mg% and was later released with a future court appearance.

Bomb Threat at Steinbach Law Courts a Hoax

Steinbach RCMP successfully disposed of a suspicious package at the Steinbach Law Courts Building after someone called in a bomb threat on July 30.

According to RCMP, police responded to a bomb threat around 12:15 pm after an anonymous caller contacted 911 and stated there was a bomb in the washroom inside the Steinbach Court Office.

Immediately, numerous RCMP officers attended and

evacuated the building and surrounding areas with the assistance of Manitoba Sheriff’s office. A number of emergency services including Steinbach Fire Department, were also at scene as a precaution, and assisted with the incident.

A suspicious device was located in the men’s washroom, and the RCMP Explosives Disposal Unit (EDU) was deployed.

RCMP Police Dog Services also arrived on scene and conducted a search for any other suspicious packages

with negative results.

The EDU officers neutralized the device, thus rendering it safe.

Upon further inspection, it was determined to be a hoax device.

Steinbach RCMP along with the Major Crime Unit and Forensic Identification Services continue to investigate.

If you have any information on this incident please call Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-3926 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800222-8477, or secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com.

The entire area was blocked off while RCMP responded to a bomb threat at the Steinbach Law Courts Building.

Ste. Anne Councillor Raring to Get Rescued

Town of Ste. Anne councillor Sarah Normandeau will be raising funds for STARS as part of Rescue from the Island.

This summer, one of the RM of Ste. Anne municipal councillor’s will be one of six individuals deliberately stranded on a remote island with nothing but her cell phone.

On September 8, RM of Ste. Anne Councillor Sarah Normandeau, along with a handful of other individuals will be dropped off on an island somewhere in Manitoba as part of a unique fundraiser called Rescue on the Island for the STARS rescue team. The goal for each stranded participant is a significant one, since the rescue fundraiser depends on the generosity of donations to support the STARS’ operations.

STARS is a charitable organization that cares for and transports critically ill and injured patients,

Lemay added. STARS currently averages 6 missions per day across western Canada.

Each member of the group is challenged to raise $100,000 by collecting pledges through phone calls from the island to family and friends.

When the group is not trying to raise funds to get off the island, they will be kept busy with various challenges including shelter building and medical challenges including CPR. Money raised from the event will go towards building a hanger for the province’s STARS helicopter.

Once it is set up, the public can contribute to the fundraiser by visiting Normandeau’s page rescueontheisland.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Co-Op Donates to Interpretive Historical Site in Richer dedicated to community founders and builders. There will also be improved lighting and some natural landscaping. This whole project is designated to explain how the First Nations, Métis and Francophone

people came together to create a community over 150 years ago.

The Richer Community Club is also building their very own Red River cart, which was used by the Métis people on the plains through

most of the 19th century to carry goods, including bison meat, to and from hunting and camping, and later, at farming sites.

“We are extremely excited to break ground on this new project in

the Dawson Trail Park,” said Dan Guetre, a director with the Richer Community Club. “This generous support from Co-op will allow us to create areas in the community park dedicated to our unique past to use for both tourism and education.”

Co-op Community Spaces has

August 2020

Continued from Page 1...

been developed to help protect, beautify and improve spaces across western Canada. In 2020, the program is providing $1 million to 17 community projects from Vancouver Island to Manitoba. Since 2015, Co-op has donated $9.5 million to over 130 projects.

These plans show what the Richer Community Club will be adding to the park.

It took a crane to help place the 18,000 lb boulder that will be used as a cornerstone for the new pergola under construction at the Dawson Trail Park in Richer. The pergola is dedicated to the settlers, Métis and First Nations’ founders of the community. A dedication plaque will be secured to the rock.

Photo by Dan Guetre

Potash Rail Cars Derail East of Deacon’s Corner

As cottagers headed out for the August long weekend, eastbound traffic on Highway 1 was down to a single lane while the cleanup of a train derailment east of Deacon’s Corner continued.

The situation began on July 30, when a CN train went off the tracks near the Highway 206 intersection roughly three kilometers east of Deacon’s Corner. The highway will remained as one lane while crews cleaned up the area.

A spokesperson from CN said 26 cars carrying potash derailed and no dangerous goods were involved.

That same afternoon, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) was deployed to investigate a Canadian National Railway train derailment near Lorette. The TSB will gather information and assess the occurrence.

Several eye-witnesses say that track repair crews were working on the tracks prior to the accident.

The TSB is an independent agency that investigates air, marine, pipeline, and rail transportation occurrences. Its sole aim is the advancement of transportation safety.

It is not the function of the Board to assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability.

Several eye-witnesses say that track repair crews were working on the tracks prior to the accident.

Twenty-six rail cars carrying potash derailed east of Deacon’s Corner on July 30.

Supplied photo

August 2020

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Province Announces Funding for Sustainable Community Programs As the MLA for La Verendrye, I am proud to be part of a government that knows the importance of investing in local communities whether it’s through watershed district projects that support conservation and restoration activities or through grants that help build sustainable communities.

Last week, I attended an announcement where Premier Brian Pallister and Sarah Guillemard, Minister of Conservation and Climate, announced the first round of GROW Trust grant distributions. These totaled $ 5.6 million dollars.

Our local Watershed District received a total of $750,000 for projects that will improve water quality, build resiliency to climate change, and reduce erosion of marginal or environmentally targeted soils in the watershed. Additional benefits of these projects will include the creation of wildlife habitat, carbon sequestration, and soil enhancement and protection.

The GROW Trust is permanently endowed to support and inspire conservation projects for generations. It is managed by the Winnipeg Foundation, while the grant program and project tracking are administered by the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation.

We all have a role to play in protecting our environment and the GROW Trust will have a profound impact on our province’s landscape for decades to come.

Our Building Sustainable Communities (BSC) grant program leverages investments in community development by local governments, non-profit organizations, and others. This year’s projects recommended for funding have a total cost of over $22 million dollars.

La Verendrye received a lot of support from the BSC grants such as a grant of $75,000 to the South East Sno-Riders Inc. for the construction of a storage and maintenance shed with a meeting room and a washroom.

Tourism plays an important role in the economy of southeastern Manitoba and helps to strengthen our communities. Sno-Riders create and maintain snowmobile trails and promote safe riding. This grant will help them continue their efforts and will bring more riders to enjoy the trail system in southeastern Manitoba.

I look forward to hearing from you with your questions or concerns.

I can be reached at my constituency office at 204-424-5406 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Trudeau and Morneau Investigated for Ethics Violations... Again Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Finance Minister Bill Morneau are under investigation for ethics violations... again!

There are ongoing investigations into the Prime Minster and Finance Minister awarding a sole-source, nearly $1 billion grant-designed to help students find work to WE charity, an organization with close ties to both men and the Liberal Party.

Mr. Trudeau’s wife works regularly with the charity and his mother and brother have been paid an unprecedented nearly $500,000 in speaking fees and travel by the organization.

Trudeau himself has also spoken at WE events.

Bill Morneau had $41,000 in luxury travel paid for by WE. One of his daughters works for WE and another has spoken at multiple events.

WE staff was also allegedly urged to attend Morneau political events.

This grant came at a time when WE was under intense financial pressure. Their former Board Chair, who testified in Ottawa earlier this week, asked company founders, Craig and Mark Kielburger, for financial records and, as a result, was forced by the Kielburgers to resign.

WE has faced increasing allegations from former employees of being a hostile work environment. Moreover, the grant money did not go to

WE proper but to a shell company designed as real estate holding company - why does a charity need that, one might ask?

You can Google a detailed timeline of the controversy but needless to say, handing nearly $1 billion of taxpayer money to a charity that was in both financial and PR trouble means somebody dropped the ball, big time.

If this was a one-time occurrence one might be able to chalk it up to the pressure of responding to COVID-19 or just plain stupidity but this is hardly the first ethical dilemma this Liberal Government has found itself facing.

Morneau was investigated previously by the Ethics Commissioner in 2017 for failing to disclose property he owned and again in 2018 for alleged insider trading.

Justin Trudeau has been investigated numerous times by the Ethics Commissioner and been found guilty of breaking federal conflict of interest laws on two previous occasions - the first sitting Prime minster to be found guilty of such offences.

Mr. Trudeau testified before the Finance Committee last week and to nobody’s surprise refused to accept responsibility. Just the usual double talk, platitudes and excuses that have come to characterize his public persona.

It seems clear now that this program was never about helping students. Like his interference in the SNC Lavalin prosecution, this was about bailing out the Prime Minister’s friends.

The Ethics Commissioner is investigating, the Finance Committee continues their hearings, and Conservatives have written to the Lobbying Commissioner - WE is not registered to lobby though they have clearly engaged in doing so - and the RCMP asking them to investigate as well.

We will continue to hold Justin Trudeau and his government accountable and we will keep fighting for the answers that Canadians deserve.

For more information on this or any issue please feel free to contact my office toll free at 1-866-3331933 or at 204-326-9889. Visit me on Facebook.com/TedFalkMP. You may also write my office at 76 PTH 12N, Steinbach MB, R5G 1T4 or visit my website at tedfalk.ca.

Open Letter of Support for Canada’s Sergeant Tommy Prince Dear Minister Morneau, We, the Members of Parliament and Senator representing constituencies in and bordering the province of Manitoba, want to offer our support for including Sergeant Tommy Prince on the new $5 note.

Sergeant Tommy Prince was a great Indigenous Canadian who embodied duty, courage, bravery, and patriotism. After joining the Canadian Army at age 24, Sergeant Prince became a founding member of the elite 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion and the Devil’s Brigade during the Second World War. He went on to contribute to the stalwart defence of Hill 677 in the Battle of Kapyong during the Korean War. Sergeant Prince’s eleven medals make him the most decorated Indigenous war veteran in Canada.

Sergeant Tommy Prince’s sacrifices in World War Two and Korea ensured that other nations and

their peoples would be safe from despotism that they would have the right to self-determination, and to all the freedoms that democracy provides.

He wasn’t alone. Over 15,000 Indigenous Canadians fought in World War Two and the Korean War for a country they couldn’t even vote in.

They experienced racism from the federal government as Indigenous war veterans were denied many of the benefits other veterans received.

Sergeant Prince, who was called to Buckingham Palace to receive medals from King George VI, died alone and homeless at a Salvation Army shelter in 1977.

It is the responsibility of every Canadian to understand the injustices of the past and to resolve their spirit to ensure they are remedied in order to establish a mutually respectful relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Reconciliation is about understanding and building relationships.

Indigenous Canadians, like Sergeant

Prince, came back from war with the self-confidence and desire to speak for themselves and to make changes. They were prepared to reconcile with Canada and move forward on the path of reconciliation, but Canada was not.

Now is the time to make a statement in support of reconciliation.

We ask you to join us in supporting Sergeant Tommy Prince, a true military hero and positive role model for all Canadians, for inclusion on the $5 bill.

Respectfully, Marty Morantz, MP Charleswood-St. JamesAssiniboia-Headingley; James Bezan, MP Selkirk-InterlakeEastman; Candice Bergen, MP Portage—Lisgar; Raquel Dancho, MP Kildonan—St. Paul; Dan Mazier, MP Dauphin-Swan River-Neepawa; Larry Maguire, MP Brandon - Souris; Ted Falk, MP Provencher; Senator Donald Plett; and Eric Melillo MP Kenora.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

August 2020

Conservatives May Have Watered Down Opportunity The Liberal Government of Canada is again flirting with lack of ethics.

I think that the Prime Minister will survive this latest round of scandal but Finance Minister Morneau’s travel expenses paid by a charity back in 2017 crossed the ethic’s line right into the Conflict of Interest Act, even if he did eventually pay the travel costs back.

The hapless Conservative Party’s new potential leader will end up being late for that party. In politics timing is everything. Because of COVID-19 the choosing of their next leader was changed from the traditional convention to smaller held media group events, and tough fundraising. The decision will culminate this month by postal voting.

Their choice is one of four. Derek Sloan from Ontario who brings to the plate hard line social conservatism, promoting anti-abortion legislation and stepping back on environmental policies such as pulling Canada out of the Paris climate agreement goal of reducing emissions by 30 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030. While Canadians deal with the pandemic he chose to attack Canada’s chief public health officer. I guess every conservative gathering must have one.

He will not move the needle much.

I pick him coming in fourth… definitely last place for him.

For third in this race of four I pick Leslyn Lewis from Ontario. She is also a social conservative, who describes herself as prolife, sees

systemic racism as a problem that exists in Canada which needs to be addressed through concrete policies and opposes carbon tax but supports promoting green technology as the alternative. Sixty-five percent of voters voted against that during the last election. I suggest not many will have changed their minds.

Second place will be Erin O’Toole from southern Ontario. He fits well in a traditional conservative tent. He is self-proclaimed as pro-choice believing it is a woman’s right to have an abortion and that MPs can bring forward whatever bills they like and vote their conscience. He also agrees that systemic racism is a problem in Canada which needs to be addressed nationally. His platform looks at cli-

mate change with the aim of switching the oil and gas sector to net-zero by incentivizing the use of technology and by exporting nuclear technology. He also has experience in government. But... he will land as the bridesmaid, not the bride.

In first place I see Peter MacKay who hails from Nova Scotia and a traditional conservative with experience. He is not a leader that would be driven by ideology only. He was the last leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada before unite the right movement took hold.

He upholds pro choice legislation, opposes the carbon tax and instead wants replace it with technological advances to sequester carbon and export natural gas around the world.

Government Caucus Chairperson At the time of writing this article, it seems that all the efforts that Manitobans continue to do to battle COVID19 are working! We had 325 lab-confirmed positive and probable positive cases in Manitoba. The data also showed that we had no individuals in hospital or intensive care, 4 active cases and 314 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19; and the number of deaths due to COVID-19 remained at 7. The total number of tests performed since early February was approximately 70,000. Why am I sharing this with you? I want to commend all Manitobans during this difficult time for doing your part in trying to flatten the Covid-19 curve.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the Secondary and Post-Secondary 2020 Grads throughout the province. You had encountered a semester unlike any you and I had ever seen. It may not

have been how you dreamed it, but will definitely make for great stories in the upcoming years.

Within the Lac du Bonnet constituency, I would like to acknowledge the students who were the recipients of my MLA Citizenship & Bursary Award. This award is given to a student selected by their school who demonstrates good citizenship not only at their school but throughout their community.

The recipients were École Powerview School, Isabella Johnson; Lac du Bonnet Senior School, Tanya Fisher; Pinawa Secondary School, Sophia Jane Long; Whitemouth School, Kassandra Saxler and École Edward Schreyer School, Sophia Nast-Kolb.

Now, as I mentioned earlier, Manitobans are doing a great job battling COVID-19 but that doesn’t mean we can take it easy. We are hearing that

a second wave is very possible.

However, many of us realize that we also need to restart the economy. Manitoba is set up to make a quick recovery and with the multiple programs that our PC Government have launched we will to be able to do just that. #RestartMB - Investments and programs that help to build up the province and restart our communities and economy.

- Manitoba Gap Protection Program (MGPP) - Student Wage Subsidy - Student Jobs MB - Support for Non-Profits - B2B Manitoba - $500 Million Infrastructure investment - Back to Work - Mental Health Supports - Business Resources Section Please go to the news release link from #RestartMB: https://bit.ly/31vN5NJ

Building Watershed Resiliency Our provincial government recently made an exciting announcement regarding funding to Winnipeg and the surrounding areas. Through the Disaster Prevention and Climate Resiliency Program, 12 projects have been selected to receive a total of $15 million to build up local infrastructure that will better prepare municipalities to withstand the impacts of natural disasters and extreme weather events.

The Prairie Grove Drain, which spans both the Dawson Trail and Springfield-Ritchot ridings, will be receiving $261,000 for culvert upgrades. This will improve surface water management in the watershed and will reduce flooding and road washouts due to severe rain events and spring runoff in the area. The goal of the Disaster Prevention and Climate Resiliency Program is to help municipalities with projects that prevent damage from a future disaster year after year, rather than simply help them recover from any single incident. It is another step forward in making Manitoba the cleanest, greenest, most climate-resilient province in the country.

Another exciting announcement that was recently made by our pro-

vincial government is the funding of 20 new conservation projects through the GRowing Outcomes in Watersheds (GROW) Trust and Conservation Trust. GROW is a new initiative to recognize and reward agricultural producers for the environmental goods and services produced on their farms. These projects were selected by the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation and will receive a total of $5.6 million to ensure the health and sustainability of the province’s watersheds.

Through the GROW Trust, the Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District (SRRWD) will receive $500,000 and Northeast Red Watershed District (NRWD) $250,000 for two local projects. The NRWD will receive an additional $20,000 through the Conservation Trust for an additional project.

The SRRWD project will involve farmers, ranchers and community members working together to identify environmental solutions to improve water quality, build resiliency to climate change and reduce erosion of marginal or environmentally targeted soils across 690 acres in the watershed. “With the help of the GROW Trust, we are now able to

triple the work that we are doing on the ground, reducing the impacts of flooding, increasing water quality on farms downstream to the Red River, and ultimately a healthier Lake Winnipeg,” said SRRWD manager, Jodi Goerzen.

One of the NRWD projects will use seeding to stabilize 200 acres of stream bank within the watershed to prevent further stream bank erosion and provide habitat for a variety of species. The NRWD will also work with local landowners to provide ecological goods and services to the watershed and aims to restore and enhance 200 acres of wetlands and riparian areas in the next two years.

With these announcements, our government continues to show our support for our rural communities and our environment.

Serving you is an honour, and I appreciate hearing your thoughts, comments, and concerns. You can reach my office at ca.lagasse@outlook.com or 204-807-4663.

and get informed!

Again, congratulations to the Grads of 2020 and all of the award winners from the constituency. Enjoy your summer and all the best in your future endeavours!

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to email me at wayne@ wayneewasko.com, or call me 204-268-3282. Also, you can follow me on twitter @ wayneewaskomla and friend me on Facebook.

MacKay also has a history in the larger tent of Conservatives including past scandal with calls for his apology for a derogatory back hand comment about a women MP being a dog and calls for his resignation after taking a helicopter taxi ride that cost $32,000 an hour to operate paid by the tax payers of Canada.

The somewhat subdued 2020 Conservative leadership race is having its moments in the spotlight too.

August 2020

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

August 2020

MMF Lights Up Manitoba Sky to Celebrate 150 Years On July 15 the provincial sky was lit up with fireworks for the Manitoba Métis Federation’s (MMF) province-wide celebration of Manitoba’s 150th birthday and the next day social media was lit up with posts from people who loved it.

According to the MMF, the southeast communities who participated included St. Malo, Lorette, Anola, and Woodridge.

For Manitoba Métis Federation President David Chartrand, the firstof-its-kind celebration was a muchneeded break during a spring and summer that has seen everything from the Jets and Bombers to Canada Day shelved due to the coronavirus.

Chartrand and the MMF planned the province-wide events to recognize the historical day, the day Manitoba officially became the fifth province to join Confederation and the only province to do so under the governance of an Indigenous Nation.

“We wanted to do something during this COVID era to bring people

a sense of relief,” Chartrand said.

“COVID is not over, it’s still here and I believe it’s going to change us all for years to come, but we still need to celebrate our province and the milestone of 150 years. July 15 was the perfect day to set aside all of our problems and differences and just be proud of who we are, proud of our families, our communities and our province and have the chance to watch fireworks as a family.”

With COVID in mind, people were encouraged to watch from their vehicles or their homes, or watch as the fireworks were streamed live online and rerun throughout the next day.

The goal, Chartrand said, was simply to give people a moment to feel good and to celebrate a date that changed the course of history for western Canada.

Tiffany Fell, Mayor of the RM of Springfield, was still pumped the following day. “The Manitoba Métis Federation did a wonderful job, it was beautiful,” Fell said. “Everybody is just beside themselves over how amazing it was. It was a fantas-

tic break for everyone, it was short notice but it was something people got to look forward to and tons of people showed up and everybody loved it.”

Social distancing was the order of the day Fell said, noting Highway 206 was lined with cars parked to get a good view of the show and parking lots were packed too.

Though it would have been nice to be able to physically bring people together for the event, Chartrand said it was important to proceed even with social distancing protocols in place. “Obviously you can celebrate things at anytime, but as a culture we emphasize milestones like 25 years, 50 years, and so in this case, 150 years is a big deal and we didn’t want to miss this opportunity,” he said. “There are many of us who won’t be around 50 years from now and it was necessary to celebrate, and during this time maybe even more important, to remind everyone of the pride we should have as Manitobans, as a province that has embraced all society.”

Conservation District Focuses on GROW Project

A voluntary landowner ecological goods and services (EG&S) program that will look to protect Manitoba water resources became reality for the Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District thanks to a recent provincial conservation funding announcement.

On July 24, major funding for the first year of GRowing Outcomes in Watersheds (GROW) was announced by the Province of Manitoba. Through GROW, watershed districts in Manitoba will deliver 16 projects that improve resilience to the effects of climate change.

Landowners will work with watershed districts and receive capital costs or annual payments to sup-

port new conservation projects.

These include $750,000 to the Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District (SRRWD) in southeast Manitoba to support projects that reduce peak flows during floods, retain water during dry periods and capture nutrients in identified ‘hotspot’ areas that would otherwise end up in Lake Winnipeg.

Jodi Goerzen, SRRWD manager said the project will improve water quality, build resiliency to climate change and reduce erosion of marginal or environmentally targeted soils across 690 acres across southeastern Manitoba.

“Additional benefits will include the creation of wildlife habitat,

carbon sequestration, and soil enhancement and protection,” said Goerzen. “Establishing projects with the opportunity to financially compensate producers for valuable EG&S projects such as water retention, riparian area management, and wetland conservation enables the SRRWD to deliver successful and sustainable water management programming that enhances both the lives of the producers and the lives of all Manitobans by protecting our water resources,” Goerzen explained.

Goerzen pointed to the landowner cooperation already in place around projects such as the Clarence Funk and Herbsigwil Farm

Crosstown Civic and Access Credit Unions Combine Forces

Credit Union and 77% in favour from Access Credit Union.

Curt Letkeman, Chair of Access Credit Union said “We’re excited by this outcome because of the opportunities the merger will bring to our members, employees, and local communities.”

“I am thankful to our membership for their overwhelming show of support for this merger and in the many conversations we have had over the past few months,” said Letkeman.

The positive vote means that the credit unions will become one entity effective January 1, 2021. At that time, the new credit union will be called Access Credit Union.

Ingrid Loewen has been named Board Chair of the merged credit union. “We pursued this merger because we believe that together we can build a stronger credit union, not just today, but for future generations,” said Loewen.

Amalgamating provides the opportunity to take advantage of shared technology and member service channels while continuing to invest in technological enhancements to continue to deliver local, personal-

ized financial services to individuals, businesses, and to the farm community.

“Our combined credit union will be stronger and will have more capacity to return direct financial benefits to our members. This merger is really about the future: as the landscape in financial services continues to evolve, this partnership will enable us to exceed expectations for our members and the communities we serve,” said Loewen.

Currently, Access Credit Union serves southern Manitoba with 17 branches, 260 employees, over $2.96 billion in assets, more than 52,000 members, and is the fourth largest credit union in Manitoba.

The merged credit union will have combined $5.5 billion in assets, over 89,000 members, more than 400 employees, and 26 full service branch locations. The added scale and resources will allow the amalgamated credit union to invest more in the technology, products, and services that members and local businesses now expect and need to compete effectively in today’s competitive marketplace.

As of January 2021, Access Credit Union and Crosstown Civic Credit Union will officially merge after members voted in favour of the action last month. The merger which includes Vita, Sprague and Grunthal ensures that each Credit Union will maintain a strong community foothold and branch presence.

Last month, the Boards of Directors of Crosstown Civic Credit Union (CCCU) and Access Credit Union (Access) announced that a decision to merge was made after members voted online and inbranch. A two-thirds majority vote was needed. The resolution passed with 87% of the members that voted in favour from Crosstown Civic

Riparian Buffer Strip project that transitioned 35 acres of annual crop land into perennial grasses along the headwaters of the Manning Canal near Kleefeld, to reduce erosion and the impacts of flooding and increase water quality as a prime example of the cooperation around GROW. “I think GROW is a valuable program in that we as farmers are stewards of the land and the environment,” said Scott Peters, of Herbsigwil Farm. “I look at being a part of the GROW program is more of an enhancement of what we are already doing.”

Support for this project is provided via the new GROW Trust and the

Conservation Trust, both of which are Manitoba Climate and Green Plan Initiatives endowed with The Winnipeg Foundation and administered by Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation, through a competitive annual granting process.

The SRRWD had to secure matching funds and in-kind support within their own organization as well as with partners like Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) Canada and producers on the ground for the project to be eligible for the GROW Trust funding.

The focus on the protection of water resources was a key driver for the Province in creating the GROW Trusts.

August 2020

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

August 2020

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August 2020

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Local Food Initiative Producer Spotlights Avonlea Honey Each month, the Stuartburn Franklin-Emerson Local Food Initiative profiles a local producer of the area whose homegrown products are available for purchase.

Located in the RM of Franklin, Avonlea Honey is produced by Derek Hofer, from Avonlea Colony.

“Seven years ago, my apiarist friends finally convinced me to take up the hobby of beekeeping.

I bought two hives and, that same year, split them into four after acquiring two more queen bees. I extracted the honey using a borrowed 2-frame extractor,” Hofer explained. “My goal was to pro-

duce enough honey to supply the Avonlea Colony, but as word got out that we had our own hives, I was led to increase my number of hives to keep up with sales requests.”

Hofer currently runs 21 hives and uses a 20-frame motorized extractor. “I raise my own queens so I can make more hives if I need to,” said Hofer. Four years ago he also started making beeswax candles.

“By removing the honey supers when certain flower sources stop blooming, I can offer a variety of flavour choices. I love hearing what other people think of these flavours. It makes the extra work worthwhile,” Hofer continued.

“People often ask me, ‘Is your honey organic?’ My answer is always no because I can’t control where the bees collect the nectar from. Bees will fly up to 2-3 miles to collect nectar, so even if I put the hives in a patch of wildflowers, there’s no guarantee that the bees will only visit the wildflowers.”

Beekeeping is not without its challenges. The first year, Hofer went through a huge learning curve. The second year, a bear tore his hives apart. In the winter of 2018, he lost all of his hives and had to start over again.

“Despite all of this, beekeeping is a great summer hobby and, Avonlea Honey has unique natural flavouring dependent on the type of flowers it was collected as a full-time teacher/principal at from.

Green Ridge School, it helps me

Avonlea Honey is hand produced at the Avonlea Colony.

to recharge and get ready for the next school year. I’m thankful for the support of my community, including my grades 5-8 students, who usually help with the extraction process,” Hofer concluded.

Avonlea Honey is available

Submitted photos

at the Avonlea Colony and RV Meats at Ridgeville Colony or at the next Corner Farmers’ Market on August 19 at the CanAm Corner in Stuartburn. You can also order by calling 204-712-6477 or emailing derek@greenridge.me.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Virtual Medicine Saves Lives in Manitoba When it comes to stroke, every minute counts as an estimated 1.9 million brain cells die every minute after onset of a stroke. For rural communities, the time factor is critical; access to a stroke neurologist is simply not available outside of our larger city centres. That is one of the key reasons why the Manitoba TeleStroke system was created in 2014.

According to Southern Health, using video-conferencing and CT scan image-sharing technology, can save lives because it enables stroke patients to be assessed by a stroke neurologist in Winnipeg or Brandon. After reviewing the CT scan, the neurologist determines a treatment plan for the patient. This may include the delivery of a time-sensitive clot-busting medication called alteplase, delivered at the site by trained nurses and physicians, or transfer to Winnipeg for Endovascular Therapy (EVT).

Dr. Denis Fortier, VP Medical Services at Southern Health-Santé Sud said calling 9-1-1 is the fastest way for stroke patients to receive emergency care when every second counts.

“TeleStroke virtually connects rural patients, local physicians and stroke specialists to prevent delays when someone is having a stroke,” Fortier explained.

“The TeleStroke protocol allows the site to be ready before the patient arrives and is saving lives when patients in the region need immediate access to emergency stroke care.”

Ken and Evelyn Paton of Steinbach learned first-hand how valuable the TeleStroke system is back on January 29, 2020. The couple were fast asleep when Ken appeared to have a bad dream. When Evelyn tried to wake him, Ken’s right side was too weak for him to get up, he wasn’t able to speak, and his eyes kept focusing

to the left. Evelyn knew something was very wrong, so she called 9-1-1.

Bethesda Regional Health Centre joined the MB TeleStroke Network in January 2019 and that is exactly where paramedics took Ken. He was assessed with a major stroke, and then transferred by ambulance to Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg.

There doctors threaded a retrievable stent through blood vessels up to his brain, and the clot was captured and removed. The procedure restored crucial blood flow to Ken’s brain and prevented permanent damage, restoring his life.

TeleStroke has provided virtual care since 2014, with life-saving results for many of the 763 Manitobans who have been assessed through the system since it was launched. TeleStroke is now in place in all Manitoba health regions, with the exception of Interlake Eastern, where it is anticipated to be up and running soon.

Two Charged in Murder of Steinbach Man

Two suspects have been charged with first degree murder in relation to the death of 27-year-old, Gerhard Reimer-Wiebe formerly of Steinbach.

Just over five weeks after the remains of a Steinbach man were found in Portage la Prairie, two men have been charged with his murder.

Twenty-nine year old Kyle Evan Sinkovits and 25-year-old Jonathan Bradley Narvey of Winnipeg have both been charged with murder in the death of 27-year-old, Gerhard Reimer-Wiebe.

On June 24, RCMP officers responded to a report of found human remains near Baker Street, in Portage la Prairie.

Investigators along with Major Crime Services and Forensic Identification Services attended the scene and worked with the Medical Examiner’s Office to determine that the cause of death was a homicide. The remains of the missing 27-year old, Reimer-Wiebe was officially identified on July 17. Originally from Steinbach, he was living in Win-

nipeg at the time.

In the weeks following identification, RCMP received over 250 tips from the public, and are in the process of examining debris from a location of interest on Alfred Avenue in Winnipeg which was the scene of arson on June 24.

On July 29, 2020 RCMP arrested Sinkovits in Winnipeg. He was remanded into custody and appeared in Winnipeg Provincial Court on July 31. The next day, July 30, Narvey was arrested and charged. He was remanded into custody and will be appearing in Winnipeg Provincial Court on Aug 4, 2020. Both suspects have been charged with First Degree Murder, Forcible Confinement and Indignity to a Dead Human Body.

The investigation is still active and ongoing. Further information is expected to be released in the coming weeks.

Development Plan Hearing Slated for Piney The RM of Piney council is holding a public hearing on September 15 where they will be open to receiving presentations in regards

to the municipal development plan.

The hearing is taking place at the Piney Community Hall or virtually via GoToMeet-

The RM of Piney is holding a hearing to adopt their municipal development plan.

ing on September 15 starting at 6:30 pm.

The RM of Piney is in the process of updating their development plan and is required by law to host a review.

The draft bylaw is available for review at the RM of Piney website. As well as a copy of the proposal along with supporting material can be inspected at the municipal office.

According to the hearing notice, due to COVID-19 restrictions, there are three options for residents or interested parties to provide presentations. Submissions can be given in person, submitted in writing to the municipality or by attending the GoToMeeting virtually.

Anyone attending the hearing must preregister with the municipality at least two days prior to the hearing so that social distancing measures can take place. Other public measures may be implemented including hand sanitizer stations and face masks.

To register call 204-437-2284 or email martin@rmofpiney.mb.ca.

August 2020

11

RM Urges Flood Victims to Apply for Assistance The RM Of Stuartburn is urging residents who sustained losses due to flooding last month to apply for Disaster Financial Assistance.

According to Stuartburn council, the province has not announced that any funding is available yet.

“While the Province hasn’t announced any funding yet, for anyone that had damages from the flood either to their home, business, outbuildings or farmland, residents are strongly encouraged to complete an Emergency Measures Organization application for Disaster Financial Assistance Form,” stated a notice by council.

In June, residents were forced from their homes due to severe flooding caused by up to 155 millimetres of rain in the area. As a result, states of emergency were declared in the RMs of Stuartburn, Piney, Reynolds, La Broquerie and De Salaberry after a high volume of rain forced almost a hundred homeowners out of their homes.

Applications for disaster assistance can be found at manitoba.ca/emo/recover/home/2020.

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August 2020

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Prairie Day at the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve The Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve will be hosting its annual Prairie Day event on Saturday, August 8 from 10 am to 4 pm. Guided walks will take place on the Nature Manitoba property adjacent to the Prairie Shore Trail, approximately 3 km east of Tolstoi on Provincial Road 209 from 10 am to 12 noon. Guest presentations will take place from 1 pm to 4 pm at Gardenton Park and Museum, outside under the shade of the oak trees.

Learn about the amazing species that call this prairie region their home. The animal ambassadors from The Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre will be on hand and showcase their unique features. Guided walks will highlight the amazing diversity of the prairie landscape from bees and birds to wildflowers and trees. Visitors will see examples of prairie management and the affects of a recent wind storm.

Admission for the day is $5 per adult and no charge for children. Activities will begin at 10 am and wrap up at 4 pm. Lunch and afternoon presentation will take place at Gardenton Park and Museum. Gardenton Park will have perogies with sausage or hot dogs, ice cream and cold drinks available for sale from their kitchen. Please note, only cash is accepted for admissions and food purchases. Modern washrooms are available at Gardenton Park.

Visitors should bring a lawn chair or blanket, sunscreen and insect repellent. Walking conditions may be wet so rubber boots or a change of footwear is suggested. All Prairie Day activities will take place rain or shine.

Everyone is encouraged to follow the current health and safety rules relating to COVID-19, this includes social distancing (2m recommended). If you or an immediate family member is not feeling well, consider visiting the Preserve another time, hiking trails are accessible throughout the year.

For more information on this event, please contact Christie at the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve at MBTGPP@gmail.com or on August 8 call Gardenton Park 204-425-3072.

Tall Grass Prairie Preserve in summer.

Submitted photo.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

RM of Ritchot Obtains Ownership of Old Hwy 59

Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler presented Ritchot Mayor Chris Ewen, asphalt keepsakes to represent the official release of responsibility for Old Highway 59 to the RM of Ritchot while Derek Roth, President of Southeast Commerce Group looks on. Photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis Residents and drivers traveling through Ile des Chenes can expect to see some much needed safety improvement along the Old Highway 59 through the community after the province turned over ownership to the municipality.

On July 30, Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler met with members of Ritchot council to officially make the announcement.

“Our government has been working with the municipality to complete this transfer of old Highway 59 south in the area of Ile des Chenes, as it is of local importance and significance to the community and its economy,” said Schuler. “We have made this transfer a priority and we are proud to have finally made it happen 15 years after the new Highway 59 was built.”

In 2005, the province took the former single-lane PTH 59S out of service when it constructed a

new, twinned PTH 59S to accommodate increased traffic volumes. PTH 59 serves major trade, tourism and cottage traffic from the US-Canada border to Winnipeg.

At that time, the province and RM signed a memorandum of understanding that stated the RM would take over responsibility of the road including maintenance. However, their hands were tied when it came to speed limits, crossing controls and installing crosswalks.

RM of Ritchot Mayor Chris Ewen was thrilled that two years of hardcore lobbying of the province finally paid off for the municipality. “We continue to be excited with the benefits of a strong provincial and municipal relationship, as we see the transfer of Old Highway 59 South and all the positive outcomes this will have in our community,” said Ewen.

Once the transfer is complete, the municipality anticipates that several projects will commence including creating a safe crosswalk to accom-

modate residents, especially for children attending the community schools.

“We cannot give an exact time frame on when projects will be complete, but residents should see changes in the next few weeks,” noted councilor Shane Pellieter.

Four years ago, the municipality held several hearings in the community to discuss ways to revitalize the community’s Main Street. During those consultations, several plans for the old highway were discussed to address safety for both pedestrians and vehicles which council has been considering while they waited for the province to release responsibility for the road.

The official transfer of Old Highway 59 north of Provincial Road (PR) 210 and PR 300 within the RM of Ritchot and the City of Winnipeg limits, to municipal jurisdiction. In total, it is relocating more than 14 km of road in both Ile des Chenes and Grande Pointe.

Steinbach Museum Receives Endowment

The Manitoba government is creating dedicated endowment funds to ensure ongoing support for the province’s seven unique and popular signature museums including the Mennonite Heritage Museum in Steinbach.

The Signature Museum Sustainability Funds will provide each signature museum with its own $1.4 million endowment fund that will be administered by its community foundation. Interest generated from the fund will be used to support each of the seven museums. This year alone, each designated signature museum will receive approximately $62,000.

The amount will continue to grow over time, creating guaranteed sustainability and growth for

the museum in perpetuity.

Additionally, the signature museums will have access to about $10,000 for training each year through the proceeds of a $200,000 Signature Museum Capacity Building Fund that will also be managed

by The Winnipeg Foundation.

“We are pleased to manage these funds to help ensure these valuable

Mennonite Heritage Museum in Steinbach.

Manitoba institutions continue to offer world-class experiences for visitors to our province,” said Rick Frost, CEO of The Winnipeg Foundation.

The signature museum program was established in 1998 and assists selected museums that have the potential to be significantly enhanced as heritage tourism attractions.

Photo from mennoniteheritagevillage.com

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

File Your 2019 Taxes Now and Apply for DTC A final reminder to get your 2019 taxes filed if you have not yet! Important for those who receive government benefits.

Canadians who receive the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) or the Goods and Services Tax (GST) credit or the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) need to complete their 2019 tax returns as soon as possible.

As of June, more than 1.9 million Canadians (about 70,000 in Manitoba) who were eligible for the CCB or GST credits have not yet filed their return. If you’re one of these Canadians, you must file your taxes to continue to receive your benefits.

Filing as soon as possible will ensure you receive the right amount and that your payments continue beyond September 2020.

If you do not file, your estimated payments will stop in October and you may have to repay what you received in July, August and September 2020.

with Disabilities In June, the federal government made an announcement about this one-time tax-fee payment of up to $600 for those who claim the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). The benefit finally received Royal Assent on July 27 so the payments should be made some time in August. The eligibility was expanded to include: - Those claiming the disability amount on their taxes.

- Those receiving the CPP disability benefit.

- Those receiving disability supports from Veterans Affairs Canada.

If you are receiving Old Age Security (OAS) and/or the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), you will have already received the payment for seniors ($300 or $500). These payments were made early July.

If you also qualify for the disability tax credit, you will get an extra $300 or $100 only. The maximum benefit for all three is $600.

September 30, 2020 deadline

Apply by September 25, 2020 deadline

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has extended the filing and payment deadlines again. The new deadline is September 30 2020. CRA will not charge late-filing penalties or interest as long as it is filed and paid in full by September 30.

CRA will also waive arrears interest on existing tax debts from April 1 to September 30 2020. This will ensure that a taxpayer’s existing debt will not grow through interest charges during this difficult time.

COVID-19 Payments for Canadians

Canadians with disabilities who are eligible for the disability tax credit but have not yet applied have a 60day window of opportunity to do so.

You need to apply with CRA by September 25, 2020.

We have contacted several of our clients who may be eligible for the disability tax credit (DTC), but have never applied. Why have they not applied in the past?

There are some taxpayers that do not benefit from the DTC. Individuals receiving Employment and

Income Assistance (EIA) and who do not pay income tax and do not receive any provincial credits would not get any benefit from claiming the DTC on their income taxes. But now there is a reason to apply for the disability tax credit: to get the $600 one-time tax-free benefit from the federal government.

If you think you may qualify for the disability tax credit, but you are not sure how, give our office a call.

We will help you with the forms and give you some guidance. I suspect the doctors’ offices may be busy for the next month or two; a doctor or nurse practitioner must complete the medical questionnaire portion of the form.

If you need information about the various benefits and programs the federal and provincial governments have been announcing since March, you can read my past articles at dawsontrail.ca. My previous articles for April, May, June, and July contain information about most of the COVID-19 benefits announced by the Federal Government and the Province of Manitoba.

Stay safe! Stay healthy!

Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and Certified Financial Planner; living, working, and volunteering in our community.

Contact Ste Anne Tax Service at 204-422-6631 or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Co-op) or info@ SAtaxes.ca.

August 2020

13

Breaking One’s Fall Have you ever had an experience where something or someone saved your life? As a four or five year old youngster the rushing waters of spring runoff were fascinating to me. I found an old kettle, went down to the edge of the creek and attempted to fill the kettle with the fast moving water. Just about that time, my older sister saw what I was doing, rushed down and grabbed me before the water could sweep me away. After dealing with the consequences of that event with my dear loving mother, I can assure you I never attempted that stunt again!

My sister saved me from physical death but there is a spiritual death that all of us need to be saved from. The Bible tells us we have all sinned and the end result of that sin is spiritual death (eternity in hell) unless the sin is taken care of. In the Old Testament times people would take a lamb and sacrifice that lamb before God to cover their sins.

When Jesus Christ was born, John the Baptist introduced him to the world as, “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29) When a person comes to Christ confessing their sins to Him, the full weight and penalty of our sins fall upon Him and we are set free from spiritual death. II Corinthians 5:21 says, “For he [God the Father] hath made him [Jesus Christ the Son] to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him [Christ].”

Near the top of a church tower in Norway stands the figure of a lamb. When the church was being built, a workman fell from a high scaffold and landed on a lamb just as a flock of sheep passed by. The lamb broke his fall and was crushed to death, but the man was saved.

Jesus Christ is our Lamb today to break our fall from sin into an eternity separated from God. Are you trusting Him as your Saviour? In Revelation 3:20, Jesus tells us, “Behold, I stand at the door [your heart’s door] and knock. If any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him.”

Don’t put that personal decision off. One day it may be too late!

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August 2020

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

SAC Promotes Dedicated Arts Advocates to Directors SAC Prepares for Another Great Season

The Steinbach Arts Council is excited to offer fall programs and concerts again this year, and we’re working hard to stay on top the most recent public health recommendations, resulting in a safe, health and creative space to learn and grow. We are committed to implementing new COVID-19 protocols in all our classes and events, including maximum number of students, so spaces may be limited. From dance, theatre and music, to visual arts, cooking and wellness - we have it all! Call us today to get your name on the list for your favorite classes this fall, or to inquire about our upcoming concert season.

Fall Registration Opens on August 3.

Classes coming your way include Pilates, French, BOSS Dance classes, Pottery, Art Xtravaganza, FUSION Musical Theatre, Backyard Theatre Company and much more.

Watch our website for registration information, or call 204-346-1077 to get your name on the list.

Arts 4 Tots - Still a few spaces left. Parents of Preschoolers this is one of our most popular programs. Arts 4 Tots is now taking phone registrations for Fall, 2020.

We’re looking forward to another exciting year with Steinbach’s most creative way to learn, for ages 3-5.

Visit SteinbachArtsCouncil.ca for details.

Dance Classes are Back - Back this fall BOSS Dance Academy at the SAC with their popular 10-week dance classes. Register now for Little Ballerinas ages 3-5 and 6-9; Hip Hop ages 3-5, 6-9 and 10+. Call us today to reserve your spot.

Wellness - SAC is offering Pilates classes with Kimberly Koop, starting in the fall. Don’t miss these popular classes, including “Pilates On The Ball”, “Pilates Core” and much, much more.

Backyard Theatre Company - We want you! Experience scripts, improv, character building, perform on stage and build your confidence. Come take part in our new and exciting curriculum. Take the stage in our local festival and final production at the SRSS theatre. For ages 5-16. Get the details on the SAC website and call to get your name on the class list, spaces may be limited.

We are thrilled to announce that Jeremy Plett, Artistic Director along with Director, Alan Fehr, will be returning to inspire the creativity of our young actors.

New Young Company – Performance Troupe for ages 17 +. Get involved in the community in a creative way.

Season Tickets - We’re working hard to secure our concert series for the upcoming season. It’s not too early to get your name on the list of season subscribers today, and never worry about missing a single concert next season. Email David Klassen, performingarts@steinbachartscouncil.ca to secure your seats.

Southeast Centre for Music, the centre for excellence - Don’t be left without a music instructor for September. SCM has exceptionally qualified instructors in a wide variety of disciplines, including piano, voice, cello, violin, music therapy and musical theatre. Enjoy Youth Choir, Voice Classes for young singers, and music classes for families with kids’ ages 0-5. Email scm@steinbachartscouncil.ca for details. Let us help find the best teacher for you. Our Instructors include some of the finest in the province. Candace Hamm, piano; Jordan Martens, piano; Hally Friesen, piano; Alyssa Hildebrand, voice; Peter Jo, violin; Natalie Dawe, cello; Brandon Post, guitar; Gabriela Gallo, FUSION Musical Theatre & Steinbach Youth Chorus; Beth Janzen, Music Therapy & Tiny Tunes Family Music Classes.

COVID-19 Coping - Share your ideas! - Do you have ideas about using technology, live streaming, or reaching students and audiences in innovative ways? Get in touch - we’re always looking for input. Email David at performingarts@steinbachartscouncil.ca and share your best ideas with us.

The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) is excited to announce the next chapter for the organization. A recent restructuring of the non-profit Arts Centre named David Klassen as the New Director of Programming, and Cindi Rempel Patrick as the New Director of Development. The new organizational structure takes advantage of the strengths of two of Steinbach’s most dedicated arts advocates.

Well-known in the City of Steinbach and throughout the province for her passion and commitment to the arts, Cindi Rempel Patrick was a founder, and the Chief Creative Officer, for the SAC since 1996 and Vice President of the Manitoba Arts Council.

Her voice for arts advocacy has been recognized for various awards, including a recipient of the 150th Anniversary Commemorative Medal presented by the Senate of Canada for her exceptional contribution to community arts. She will shift into a position that concentrates on nurturing connections within our community and beyond, providing leadership, establishing vision and financial resource development and overseeing events and fundraising projects for the Council.

“We feel privileged to be a part of strong leadership team that can see our organization through the unknowns of this next year. There is tremendous value in a team that possesses both knowledge of the last 25 years and fresh vision for the future and we are each dedicated to focusing on very specific areas that are innovative and integral to the success of SAC”, said Rempel Patrick.

David Klassen comes to the SAC with 15 years of experience as a University Educator with the University of Manitoba and over two decades of involvement working to create new initiatives at SAC. He is recognized across western Canada for his work as an educator and classical musician, and well known in the region for his versatility in the arts. In addition to his continued work developing the Performing Arts activities at SAC, he will assume a leadership role with staff, oversee operations and arts education programs in all disciplines, and contribute to the overall vision of the organization.

In a time when most businesses have more questions than answers, SAC has confidence that they will continue to offer programming for the public that will fill the needs of many community members. “Just like most organizations, we’ve encountered some difficult circumstances due to the COVID-19 outbreak, but we feel confident that with the combined strengths of our two directors, we can continue offering valuable opportunities for our community, as well as integrity and safety in our programming”, said Klassen.

Normally, the SAC sees hundreds of members walk through their doors every week. Through the recent months, the Centre has been closed, but both Directors, together with their Board of Directors; look forward to reopening in fall. Klassen and Rempel Patrick agree that SAC is the heartbeat of the region’s arts community, and that the revitalized leadership team will ultimately lead the organization to continued success.

St. Labre 200 Event Anticipates 2021 Return After several months of waiting, the St. Labre 200 event committee has called it a season for this year. However, plans are already in the works for 2021.

It took only fifteen minutes for the twenty-two available racing spots for this year’s St. Labre 200 to sell out. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the event has been officially cancelled for this year.

“After several months keeping up with the current situation we must announce that the 2020 edition of St-Labre 200 is cancelled. Current regulations prevent us from safely hosting our event,” said Joel Grenier, on behalf of the St. Labre 200 Committee. “The current pandemic was not something we could have foreseen.

It was not an easy decision and one that was taken with a heavy heart.”

The annual St. Labre 200 go-kart competition is a challenge where two dozen teams will build their own go-karts within 24 hours. Each team is given basic materials along with their own basic framing materials.

They are then challenged to build go-karts from scratch on the first day and race their new creations the next day in a fast paced 200-lap race on a quarter mile dirt track.

Plans are already in the works for next year’s competition. The 2021 edition of St. Labre 200 will take place July 2 and 3.

“We hope to come back bigger and

better in 2021, but in the meantime, stay healthy and stay safe,” Grenier added.

Don’t forget to mark your calendar for March 1, 2021 to register a team.

A winner of the Manitoba Tourism Innovation Award the St. Labre 200 has become a powerhouse annual fundraiser for local community organizations with its Giving Back to the Community. Over the past ten years, organizers of St. Labre 200 have been able to give over $100,000 to different local organizations. Applications for Giving Back to the Community will be open in March 2021.

Recreation Commission Delivers Safe Summer Programming There is still a month of summer left and the Rat River Recreation Commission has a full slate of activities for children in both St. Pierre-Jolys and St. Malo.

Josie Unrau, Recreation & Wellness Facilitator is excited to once again be offering the community a variety of activities while working within the confines of provincial regulations.

“While we are still navigating these waters, we are continuing to offer activities and programs for you all,” said Unrau.

“Be assured that we are doing our best to keep things sanitized and encourage physical distancing.”

Some of the programs on the schedule include Summer Days with Sayzoons that will take place at the Parc Carillon

in St. Pierre-Jolys on August 5 and 25, and at the Grotto in St. Malo on August 11 and 17. A week long Adventure Camp for ages 6-9 and 10-12 will take place from August 17 to 21 at the Grotto in St. Malo.

Bring out the super soakers and water toys to Wacky Water Days at the St. Pierre-Jolys Splash Park on August 24.

“Whether you decide to participate in our programs and events or stay home, we always encourage healthy and active recreation for your physical, mental and social health and well-being!” Unrau added. “Of course, we also recommend that if you are under the weather at

all, it is best to stay home.”

If your child wants to learn about businesses the R Biz Camp takes place August 10-14 at the St. PierreJolys arena. This program is geared towards 9-13 year olds.

For the adults, pickleball takes place at the Real Rivard School Tuesday mornings from 9-11 am and Thursday evenings from 7-9 until August 17. The Disc Golf is also available at the Parc Carillon with pre-sanitized discs available for loan from the St. Pierre-Jolys Library.

For more information or to register for any of these programs contact Josie at 204-712-7773 or email josie@ratriverrecreation.com.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Providence Ready to Welcome Students As the province announced that classes will resume in September, Providence in Otterburne was already working on their fall plan in preparation to welcome students back on campus. According to a recent release, Providence is committed to providing students with a quality education and personalized student life experience.

Leshia Verkerk, Dean of Student Life said her department has been working hard to ensure that students will experience the same high-quality community this fall that they have come to expect from Providence.

“Things will look a little bit different this year, but you will still have many opportunities to learn and grow both inside and outside of the classroom,” said Verkerk. “We must remain flexible so we can adapt to changing COVID-19 directives that, to a large extent, dictate how we can deliver our programs and courses this fall to students.”

Verkerk confirmed the Otterburne campus would open in September for in-person classes and labs and

on-campus residence living.

“We will be carefully following COVID-19 guidelines for physical distancing and limits on the number people occupying indoor and outdoor spaces as laid out by our provincial Public Health officials,” she added.

This fall, classes will be more flexible with a plan to offer a blend of in-class and online courses. All lectures will be recorded and accessible for viewing.

Dean Cathy Rust-Akinbolaji said that the University College will offer a blend of synchronous and asynchronous teaching. “Synchronous teaching will involve meeting together weekly in class for a single block. Asynchronous teaching will involve weekly online coursework to be completed by students according to their own schedule,” she explained.

Providence Seminary will continue to offer flexible online study options and offer courses using in-class, online, module and hybrid methods of delivery.

To date, enrollments are up from the past two years, which is a good early indicator as Cameron McKenzie, Provost and VP Academic said that to date, enrollment is up from the previous two years, which is a good indicated that registration will be strong.

The only program that will be affected are offerings from the Athletics department. Five Manitoba schools, the Assiniboine Community College, Brandon University, Canadian Mennonite University, Providence University College and Université de Saint-Boniface have all committed to playing the 2020 MCAC soccer season.

“Providence continues to make plans to train and compete starting in the fall semester as long as certain conditions can be met,” said Scott Masterson, Director of Athletics. “There is still uncertainty surrounding the NCCAA and NIAC leagues and travel to the US, but we continue to work together and monitor the situation.”

Providence Pilots Sexual Violence Reporting Program Providence College in Otterburne is one of eleven post secondary institutes across the province participating in a groundbreaking initiative called REES (Respect, Educate, Empower Survivors).

The pilot project provides students with an online platform that offers them anonymity in reporting sexual violence on-campus. It is in partnership with 11 post-secondary institutes in Manitoba. Providence is one

To find out more visit reescommunity.com.

of the participating universities.

Through the online program, victims of sexual violence will be able to enter their accounts on the platform specific to their school community. Victims can share as much or as little information as they feel comfortable, and they can choose to file an anonymous report, connect to their campus or file a police report.

REES project manager Mary Lobson said the purpose of the program is twofold. “One is to create a safe, secure space for survivors to report and to provide them with information that can inform the choices they make for themselves, and then also to gather pertinent data that can be utilized by post-secondary institutions to create safer campuses,” said Lobson.

Every semester, anonymous data sets will be given to participating

colleges and universities to provide them with concrete information about the type of violence happening on their campus, when and where sexual assaults are occurring and who the alleged perpetrators are.

According to Lobson, the hope for this pilot project is that more incidents, ranging from cyber stalking to sexual assault, will get reported and that it will empower survivors to report offenses on their own terms.

In Manitoba, often victims of sexual assault need to make a report in person, and they’re at the mercy of the current systems and processes in place. However, REES provides students with the autonomy, options and support that they need, she concluded.

To find out more visit reescommunity.com.

RM of Reynolds Residents Show Off Your Yards!

The RM of Reynolds is encouraging residents to get out and work on their yards by hosting a beautiful yard contest.

The municipality invites residents to submit photos of their yards or to nominate their neighbours in the RM of Reynold’s first annual Beau-

tiful Yards Contest. Photos will be posted on the municipal website for residents to vote.

The yard with the most votes in each ward will win some RM of Reynolds swag and the winning homes will be featured on the municipality’s website front page.

The municipality is also looking for judges. Interested persons can contact the RM Office at 204-426-5305.

Judges will be picked by random draw.

The Beautiful Yards Contest runs to September 30, 2020 with the winners to be announced on October 7, 2020.

Hunting Leases Available in Piney On August 15, hunters looking to harvest wildlife on RM of Piney property will be able to purchase a permit allowing them to hunt on specified municipal property.

According to By-Law No. 123 /2017 otherwise known as the Fall Hunting Lease by-law, anyone want-

ing to hunt on municipal property requires a permit. At a cost of $500 each, permits allow access to one parcel of municipal property during a regular season for up to five people from September 1 to November 20, 2020.

There are some conditions to the

permit, including that no permanent structures can be built, and all temporary structures must be removed at the end of the lease. No trails can be made, and no trees can be removed.

Further information can be found at rmofpiney.mb.ca/rmland-available.

August 2020

15

What Is So Special About Sunday?

Exodus 20:8-11) - 8) Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9) Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10) but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. 11) For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. (NIV) The Fourth Commandment is interesting because we may have misunderstood or distorted the true meaning. So, we ask ourselves the question… Are we talking about a holiday rather than a Holy Day? Is it up to us to decide? What about our busy schedules, who will look after all the responsibilities assigned to us? Is this Biblical Command applicable today?

Ever ask the question of why God took six days to create the world? My thinking is that He could have done it with perhaps just one word. Is it possible that He was giving us an example?

He wants to teach us that yes, there is a time to work but on the other hand, you and I must take some time off to rest. I am told that the word Sabbath means rest, meaning that life is more than just work.

We hear and read about the front-line workers regarding the (COVID – 19). How their long workweek can be emotionally exhausting. These folks feel their nerves and stress levels crying desperately for a change. They know if they continue working at that level, they will make mistakes, bad decisions, and display insensitive work ethics. They are aware that they need a rest, time to fuel up emotionally and spiritually.

Our bodies need rest. However, our spirit also needs a time of worship. That does not mean that we must only worship on Sundays... Mark 2:27-28 Jesus said this… 27) Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28) So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” (NIV) My understanding is that there are those who must work on Sundays. Their Sabbath day or day of rest will be some other time during the week.

God established the priority of a special day for our blessing and benefit. God knows what we need. He knows that we not only need rest, but we also need special communion (worship) with Him. We need a special day… When we are spiritually and emotionally refreshed, our physical being responds when we take the time to worship, Jesus touches us spiritually. He pours into our weary spirits a fresh revelation of Himself. He sustains us with spiritual nourishment. Our spirit communes with His Spirit, and we are revived. What begins in our spirit quickly moves to our emotions.

Discouragement and despair are replaced with hope and joy. As we take a break from living in the world, our tattered, frayed emotions can have the time to rebound.

Religious conviction does not consist of rules and regulations.

Sunday observance is important but there is a great deal more to religion than Sunday observance. If a person might become a Christian, simply by abstaining from work and pleasure on Sunday, and by attending church on that day, and say their prayers and reading their Bible, well then being a Christian would be a very easy thing.

Christ declared that human needs supersedes or overtake mere ritual and ceremony. The Sabbath was not intended to be a heartless dictator that humanity must serve regardless of the cost to themselves; rather it was given to meet the needs of people. Christ was not asserting His freedom to violate the Sabbath law, but rather He was declaring His qualifications to interpret that law when He said that He was Lord also of the Sabbath… To God Be the Glory Great Things He Has Done.

Would you pray this prayer with me? “Lord Jesus, come into my heart. Forgive my sins. I want my life to change. My thoughts and my attitude need to change. I do not have the peace in my heart that I yearn for. I want that peace, joy and happiness that fulfills my heart’s desire. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will honour Your Name. Amen.”

16

August 2020

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

C ommunity E vents Ile-des-Chênes Ritchot Senior Services: Office is open Monday-Thursday 9 am – 2 pm. We are discouraging drop ins. Anyone entering will be screened for symptoms of Covid-19 or exposure before entering the facility. Hand sanitizing and physical distancing measures will be mandatory. Contact ritchotseniors@mymts. net or call 204-883-2880. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Fall Programming - September is just around the corner and many of you are wondering how things will look over here at RSS. Safety is and will remain our first concern, so as we move towards Fall programming we will be asking for your assistance. All programs and activities will require you to preregister this includes chair fit classes. If you have preregistered for an event but find yourself feeling unwell on the day of the event call or email to let us know you will not be attending. We will be limiting the number attending all activities and will expect a waiting list for many programs. We plan to start all indoor activities slowly and will add more programs as it feels comfortable.

Grocery Delivery – Groceries can be delivered right to your door. Contact 204883-2880 or email, ritchotseniors@mymts.net.

Foot Care Clinics – On Wednesday August 5 with Ursula Giesbrecht certified foot care nurse. Pre-register; contact Janice 204-883-2880.

La Broquerie Seine River Services for Seniors – Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Contact Mélanie Brémaud at 204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local services or labseinerss@gmail.com.

Attention local business owners, friends and neighbours: We are putting out the call for help for our seniors who reside in local 55+ Centres and homes by requesting basic necessity donations such as non perishable food items and toiletries. A lot of our seniors do not have family that can help during this time and volunteers aren’t allowed to interact because of social distancing.

If you are in a position to help, please do so. We are currently setting up donation drop off points so please keep watching our page for that information!

For business owners: we are asking that you set up donation bins for our cause, we will arrange for pickup and delivery by utilizing the services of the seine River school division! Contact Rosalie Stelmack directly on Facebook, “See a need, Fill a need. Pay it Forward Program”.

Lorette Ritchot Senior Services - Office open from Monday-Thursday 9 am – 2 pm.

We are discouraging drop ins. Anyone entering will be screened for symptoms of Covid-19 or exposure before entering the facility. Hand sanitizing and physical distancing measures will be mandatory. Contact ritchotseniors@mymts. net or call 204-883-2880. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Speedway Goes Green in Late Season Opener

By Marianne Curtis On July 30, dirt track racing fans were welcomed to the Red River Co-op Speedway in St. Adolphe when the 2020 season officially kicked off with the Johnny McRae Memorial race.

Weather permitting, dirt track racing season usually starts in May, but this year due to COVID-19 restrictions, track owners were only able to schedule a practice race in June, and delay opening until a plan was in place.

According to Red River Co-Op Speedway manager Blair Bodley opening night at any track is a “challenging task, let alone having to deal with COVID-19 issues and guidelines.”

“Our season opener was last night and by all accounts, a huge success,” said Bodley.

“I’ve had numerous texts and messages complimenting us on how well the program ran, but it’s so important to note that there are many people behind the scenes, before, during, and after, that make this all happen.”

Some of the changes implemented were that driver registration now takes place ahead of time, and online. Spectator tickets are capped at 500 and are only available online up to twenty-four hours before a race, and ticket prices have been priced at $20 each for all ages.

Brandon Rehill completes his victory lap after taking the checkered flag during the Midwest Modified Feature during the speedways opening night.

The driver pit remains closed to spectators and there is no more back and forth between the concession section and pit. Instead of a central canteen, food trucks were invited to park on the premises as well.

“I can’t tell you everything was perfect, but I can tell you that we will work diligently at identifying the issues, solving them, and then implementing them, to make the process smoother,” Bodley continued. “Thank you to all of our staff that worked so hard under very challenging circumstances and to our fans, sponsors, families, drivers, and pit crew, for your cooperation and under-

standing during a challenging time.”

Opening night winners were Rick Delaine in WISSOTA A Mods, Bill Perdonic claimed the 4 Cylinders, Brandon Rehill won the Midwest Modified, and Rob Reese earned the Johnny McRae Memorial Pure Stocks race.

For over 40 years, Red River Co-op Speedway has been providing high speed racing action to fans young and old. Opening in July of 1973 to a sellout crowd of 3,500 people, the Speedway continues to thrill it’s over 60,000 spectators each race season.

Grocery Delivery – Groceries can be delivered right to your door. Contact 204883-2880 or email, ritchotseniors@mymts.net.

Foot Care Clinics – On Wednesday, September 9 with Ursula Giesbrecht certified foot care nurse. Pre-register, contact Janice 204-883-2880.

Weekly Meals: The group over at Le Club Des Bles D’or is offering weekly meals. Please remember when picking up your meal to social distance. The Club is providing a terrific service and we would like to see them be able to continue. They are located at 1254 Chemin Dawson Road. Phone 204-8782682. You must place your order one day prior before 6:00 pm by calling and leaving a message.

St. Adolphe Ritchot Senior Services: Office open Monday - Thursday 9 am – 2 pm. We are discouraging drop ins. Anyone entering will be screened for symptoms of Covid-19 or exposure before entering the facility. Hand sanitizing and physical distancing measures will be mandatory. Contact ritchotseniors@mymts.net or call 204-883-2880. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Grocery Delivery – Groceries can be delivered right to your door. Contact 204883-2880 or email, ritchotseniors@mymts.net.

Foot Care Clinic – On Tuesday, September 1 with Ursula Giesbrecht certified foot care nurse. Pre-register; contact Janice 204-883-2880.

Ste. Agathe Ritchot Senior Services: Office open from Monday - Thursday 9 am – 2 pm.

We are discouraging drop ins. Anyone entering will be screened for symptoms of Covid-19 or exposure before entering the facility. Hand sanitizing and physical distancing measures will be mandatory. Contact ritchotseniors@mymts. net or call 204-883-2880. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Grocery Delivery – Groceries can be delivered right to your door. Contact 204883-2880 or email, ritchotseniors@mymts.net.

Foot Care Clinic - On Monday, September 14 at the Community Centre with Ursula Giesbrecht certified foot care nurse. Pre-register; contact Janice 204883-2880.

Ste. Anne Seine River Services for Seniors – Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Contact Mélanie Brémaud at 204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local services or labseinerss@gmail.com.

Alzheimer Office Location Changes The South Eastman Region Office of the Alzheimer Society Manitoba has moved. Their new location is now 245B Main Street in Steinbach.

To make an appointment, call Jen Reimer, Regional Coordinator, at 204-326-5771 or email alzse@alzheimer.mb.ca.

Photos by Marianne Curtis

Speedway opening 2020.

Medical Care Available in Prawda The RM of Reynolds is excited to announce the arrival of a weekly health care team in Prawda that is available to residents in the area.

According to council, residents now have access to local medical care in Prawda. The new Prawda Primary Care Clinic

is open Mondays from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm in the Reynolds Business Centre.

Once a week a health care team of nurse practitioners as part of the primary healthcare team, along with a dietitian and chronic disease nurse can help patients manage their health.

The team is available the rest of the week at the Whitemouth Primary Care Centre located at 75 Hospital Street, Whitemouth.

To book an appointment call 204-3482291 to make an appointment at either clinic.

The RCMP Wants to Hear from Youth RCMP wants to hear from youth. Canadian residents ages 13 to 21 can now apply to become a part of the RCMP’s National Youth Advisory Committee (NYAC)! Applications must be received

by September 11, 2020.

This is an online opportunity for youth to connect, have their say and make

a difference. NYAC members interact with participants from all over the country and discuss important issues they face in their respective communities. They share their thoughts about youth crime and victimization topics, and help shape RCMP programs and initiatives. NYAC members can also

receive reference letters and volunteer hours.

Youth voices matter. For all the details regarding this opportunity, visit the RCMP website.

To request an application form, send an email to RCMP.Youth-Jeunesse.GRC@ rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

August 2020

17

Hidden Rocks - Found Joy

When you walk through our home you’ll see a regular house with the regular items of furniture. Couch over there, kitchen table and chairs here along with assorted knickknacks adorning different locations.

What you might not realize, and many of our friends and relatives do not notice, is that behind that flower vase on the buffet is a cookie-painted rock. Beneath the couch that they

Sprague RCMP Back in Office After months of being closed due to COVID-19, the Sprague RCMP are back to working normal office hours.

According to Cpl. Richard Graham from the Sprague Detachment, officers are continuing to ask the public to not attend the Sprague RCMP Detachment, unless for urgent matters.

Office hours are from 9 am to 5 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday one week, followed by Wednesday and Thursday on the following week on a rotating basis.

For all non-urgent matters, including requesting Criminal Record Checks, call the offices non-emergency number at 204-437-2041 and leave a message. All calls are returned. For immediate police assistance call 204-437-2222 or 911.

Graham also warns residents to not be afraid of an ongoing phone scam that has recently resurfaced.

In recent weeks there has been a resurgence of phone calls from people claiming they represent the Canada Revenue Agency, demanding money, and threatening people with arrest if they do not pay.

“This is a SCAM. The CRA does not call demanding payment over the phone. The Police are not going to come and arrest you,” Graham assured the public. “Simply hang up the phone on these scammers! You don’t need to call the Police to report these types of phone calls; we already know they’re happening.”

These calls can be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Center at 1-888-495-8501, or online at antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

Correction Last month’s article called “Explore Moon Gate House” should have stated that Moon Gate Guest House was owned by Jenny and Michel Dupas. We apologize for any confusion this may have caused.

are sitting on is a rock painted like a watermelon slice. Hidden behind that book on the shelf is a rock painted solid blue. This is a game that my children have created for our family and it is quite amazing the amount of joy the simple act of finding something hidden can bring to a person.

While most rooms in our house are fair game to hidden rocks, there are some that are off-limits. After giving bedrooms a trial run, we decided that we won’t hide the rocks in the bedrooms for the simple fact that no child wants their brothers or sister ripping through their stuff trying to find a hidden rock. It sometimes ended up looking like a windstorm swept through the room!

While each of my children had a part to play in the development of this game, my daughter, the crafty painter, is truly the driving force behind it. She is the one that has painted the majority of the rocks and occasionally, she has offered another member of the family the opportunity to paint a special rock for the game (I painted the tomato and the strawberry!). She has amped up the family fun even more by adding a point system to the hidden rocks.

The solid coloured rocks are one point while the rocks painted like food are two points, the tiny, tiny coloured rock is ten points because it is a monster to find (thankfully, she often gives hints to its location).

For Father’s Day, I received a rock

that was painted like a chicken’s head and a rock that was painted like an Enderman’s head. These two special ones are mine to hide and I’ve added my storybook twist to the game in that the chicken head, since it is so chicken, will be hidden very easily and is worth two points.

The Enderman head is more clever and will be hidden much harder for a value of four points.

While the average rock can stay hidden for less than a week, sometimes, when the rock is hidden very well and the person that hid the rock forgets where it went, the rock can remain hidden for months until one day it is stumbled upon and found. This rock finding event is often met with much celebration and jubilation.

It’s funny to think about how, at the end of most days, my wife and I will often spend a few minutes searching for hidden rocks. The happiness that it brings to each of us is worth the time spent searching. For myself, it is hard not to walk through our home and have my eyes glancing about in the quest for a clever spot where a rock may have been slipped into.

It is awesome to see how clever these rocks can be hidden in rooms that we travel through daily but it is also humbling to see, as we search, all the little nooks and crannies that exist in our rooms and living spaces that we never knew were there.

Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.

18

August 2020

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

RCMP FILES Memberships: Pat Porter Active Living Centre 2020 memberships available for $30 per person. Join now to enjoy our member’s benefits!

Phone ahead to register for the following programs, as space is limited: Walking - Monday–Fri 8:30 – 9 am.

Coffee Corner - Tuesdays and Thursdays 10 am – 12 pm.

Pickleball - Monday and Wednesdays 9 – 11:30 am.

Beginner Pickleball- Monday 1:30 4 pm and Friday 9 – 11:30 am.

Drums Alive! – Tuesdays, 1– 2 pm.

Yoga - Monday 1 - 2 pm.

PACE - Thursdays 1 - 2 pm.

Floor Curling – Wednesdays 1:30 – 3:30 pm.

Computer Classes – Wednesdays, one-on-one classes by appointment.

Book Club – Fridays, 11am–12 pm.

Craft Corner – Fridays, 1:30– 4 pm.

Games - BINGO Fridays, August 7 and 21, 1:30 – 3:30 pm.

Badminton - Every second Tuesday and Friday, August 4, 14, 18 and 28, from 2 – 4 pm, limited space available, please follow the Pickleball (signup) link on our Webpage.

If you have any information in regards to any item here you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

On June 20 Steinbach RCMP received a report of a missing 47-year-old male from the RM of Ste. Anne. Christopher Peter Hawkins (prefers to go by Peter) was last seen around noon on May 29 when he took a taxi from the RM of Ste Anne to Betula Lake, in Whiteshell Provincial Park.

Hawkins is described as approximately 5’11”, 180 lbs, with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a red t-shirt and grey pants.

He has not been active on social media and has yet to make contact with his friends and family.

RCMP did obtain surveillance video showing a taxi cab driving in Betula Lake Resort at 4:32 pm on May 29. The taxi stopped just out of sight of the camera, Peter is dropped off and is last seen walking towards a path that leads to the provincial campground. “This is every mother’s worst nightmare,” said Julie Hawkins, Peter’s mother. “We miss Peter so much and are hoping someone has seen him or has information on where he may be and calls police. We just want to know he’s okay.”

The RCMP are asking anyone with information to call the Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-1234, Lac Du Bonnet RCMP at 204-345-8685, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Sprague RCMP Respond to Drowning in Lake of the Woods On July 6, at 5:45 pm Sprague RCMP received a report of a possible drowning in Lake of the Woods near the Buffalo Point First Nation.

Officers were advised that a 67-year-old man, from the RM of Morris, was fishing out on the lake with two other men, a 74-year-old and 59-year-old, when he attempted to retrieve a fish from the water and fell out of the boat. The 67year-old man, who was not wearing a life jacket, immediately began having difficulty in the water. The 59-year-old dove into the water to assist and after a short period of time, the two managed to remove him from the water where they returned to shore. Once on shore, medical assistance was provided until EMS arrived who later pronounced the man deceased.

Sprague RCMP along with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner continue to investigate.

Community Resources: Are you or is someone you know in need of help during this difficult time? We are here to help if you need assistance getting groceries, transportation or a meal delivered to your home. Call Carrie at 204-320-4604 if you or someone you know is in need of any of these services or has questions.

Falcon Lake RCMP Respond to Drowning

Meals on Wheels: Not available at the Centre at this time!

Rentals: Looking for a nice place to have your business meeting, family event or celebrations? Give us a call, e-mail or come to the centre and let us know how we can help you.

For more information on our programs, activities or volunteer opportunities Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm. Call Sonja at 204-320-4603 or the reception desk at 204-320-4600.

Theft of ORV Between July 20 and July 22 a white Polaris RZRS 800 was stolen from the RM of Hanover.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Steinbach RCMP Search for Missing Ste. Anne Man

Special Events: Fresh Flower Pressing Workshop – Thursday, August 6, 2 pm. $10 per person, call to register.

Fraud Prevention Presentation Tuesday, August 11, 2:15 pm. Free, call to register.

Assiniboine Park Garden Walk Thursday, August 13. Contact Carrie for details 204-320-4604.

Indigo & Flower ECO Printing – Thursday, August 20, 2 pm. $10 per person, call to register.

PPALC Community Calendar Book: This Community Calendar book (running from 2020 - April 2021) contains a variety of local business coupons and a place for you to record important phone numbers.

Only $10 with over $300 worth of savings inside! All proceeds go towards maintaining the Centre and providing the programs that you know and love. Call us at 204-3204600 to arrange for pickup.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Patio Bandit Sought In the early hours of June 16 a white truck pulled up to a residence on First Street in Steinbach and stole a patio chair valued at $300.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Snowmobile Trailer Stolen from Compound On July 6 Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen triton model TC11-EB snowmobile trailer Manitoba plate 806CM. The trailer is grey in colour. The trailer was stolen from a property on Industrial road in Steinbach within the last month.

If you have any information regarding the above incident or any other information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

At 3:30 pm on July 19 Falcon Lake RCMP were advised of a scuba diving incident at West Hawk Lake in Whiteshell Provincial Park. The initial report indicated that a scuba diver was pulled from the water, was unconscious and not breathing.

Members of the local fire department and bystanders were attempting to resuscitate the male diver. Despite their efforts, the 55-year-old man from Winnipeg was pronounced deceased on scene.

The initial investigation has determined that the man was diving with two others in West Hawk Lake at a depth of approximately 20m when the companion divers noticed that he required assistance. The male was brought to the surface by one of the companion divers, brought to shore where resuscitation efforts were immediately initiated.

RM of Ste. Anne Man Drowns Near Great Falls Dam On July 12 at approximately 3:05 pm, Powerview RCMP responded to a possible drowning, at a quarry, across from Great Falls Dam. A male was with friends, when he jumped into the water, and began struggling to swim. Several of his friends attempted to help, however he went under the water and did not come up. Several bystanders came to assist, and he was found, pulled from the water and CPR was initiated. The 21-year-old male, from the RM of Ste. Anne was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

Assault Leads to Charges On Friday July 3 at approximately 5 pm, Steinbach RCMP were made aware of a domestic assault that occurred the previous night. Patrols were made in Blumenort where the accused, Matthew Phillip Martens was located and apprehended after a short foot pursuit. Martens was charged with assault, failure to comply with release conditions, and uttering threats against a person. He was also charged for with possession of a motorcycle obtained by crime over $5,000 and operation while prohibited. Martens was remanded into custody.

Driver Backs into Building, Injures One On July 10, at approximately 3:15 pm, Steinbach RCMP was dispatched to a motor vehicle collision at a business on Main Street.

Emergency personnel and fire services were already on scene when officers arrived. Officers were advised that a vehicle, driven by a 19-year-old male from Steinbach, was backing up in order to park but that all of sudden the vehicle appeared to gain speed and backed up into the building going through it, injuring one employee who was inside the business. The employee, a 45-year-old female from the RM of De Salaberry, was taken to hospital and treated for minor injuries.

The 19-year-old male driver was arrested for operation while impaired by drug and was taken to hospital for assessment. He was later released. He was issued a ticket under the Highway Traffic Act for driving while disqualified.

The investigation continues while police await toxicology results.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Hang Up Immediately On That CRA Scam

RCMP Search for Flat Deck Truck

Steinbach RCMP would again like to inform the public of an old CRA scam that is resurfacing.

CRA will call and advise that the person’s SIN number has been compromised and that they will be receiving further instructions from the police.

Immediately, the person receives a call from a Cst. Marshall instructing them to withdraw a certain amount of cash from their bank account, to attend the nearest Bit Coin machine and deposit the cash. The person is then advised that once that is completed they will receive a phone call with their new SIN number. Of course there are no further calls. Unfortunately, once the money has been deposited there is nothing that can be done to retrieve the money or apprehend suspect(s).

It should be noted that when the person receives the “police’ call, the Steinbach RCMP number 204-326-1234 appears. This leads people to believe that the phone call is from the Steinbach RCMP Detachment.

With any calls, if you are requested to send money, you should simply hang up and report the incident to Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888495-8501 or fax to 1-888-654-9426.

The Steinbach RCMP received a report of a theft that occurred from the Hylife garage on Rue Fabas in La Broquerie. It was determined that the theft occurred in the early morning on July 19. A white 2015 Dodge Ram with a flat deck that had the Manitoba plate HEA478 was stolen by two unknown suspects.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

RCMP Want Help to Identify Suspects The Steinbach RCMP are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying suspects in a break and enter investigation. On July 5 around 1:30 am three individuals broke into a residence on Creekside Drive in Steinbach and stole miscellaneous items.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-3264452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Thief Drives Away with RV The Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen Gray 2017 Prowler RV trailer with a Manitoba plate Y450V that occurred overnight on July 23 at the intersection of Highway 12 and Road 30 North on a trailer lot.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-3264452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

On July 11 the Steinbach RCMP received a report of a theft that occurred on Barkman Avenue in Steinbach at approximately 7 pm.

A metal folding chair and steel rake were stolen from the front yard of the residence.

If you have any information regarding the above incident or any other information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Hit and Run Suspect Nabbed

RCMP Arrests Driver Who Opened Fire with a Paintball Gun on Crowd On July 12 at approximately 11 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a truck that had driven up to a group of individuals in a parking lot on Main Street in Steinbach where a male proceeded to open fire with a paintball gun striking people, vehicles and a building.

The vehicle left the scene and was located parked at a residence on Third Street in Steinbach. Police observed paintball guns inside the truck. The driver was identified and arrested while trying to flee from police.

He was found to be in possession of a small quantity of cocaine. The vehicle, also contained three knives, two throwing hatchets, a Smith and Wesson fixed blade knife which were tucked into various locations near the driver as well as a black revolver style pellet gun. The driver was tested for the presence of cocaine using an Oral Fluid Device and was found to be impaired by the drug.

Steinbach resident, Ruben Sweet, 25-years old was issued with a tiered driving administrative suspension for 15 days and was charged with two counts of assault with a weapon, 2 counts of mischief under $5,000, 3 counts of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and one count of possession of cocaine. He appeared in court in Winnipeg on July 14.

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Thieves Target Front Yard

Police Rescue People Adrift on Inflatable Manitoba RCMP reminds Manitobans to be safe while using inflatables On June 28 at approximately 3:05 pm, Portage la Prairie RCMP responded to a report that an inflatable raft carrying eight people had drifted away from shore, at St. Ambroise Beach.

RCMP officers, along with Manitoba Conservation officers, arrived on scene and requested additional resources to assist. As additional resources were arriving at the location, two people from the raft were brought to shore by a civilian boat. The RCMP and Manitoba Conservation both launched boats and were able to get to the inflatable raft and rescue all of the remaining occupants. The raft had drifted out 8 km from shore.

Over the past two weeks, RCMP has received several reports involving inflatables that have floated very far from shore. In two of the instances a rescue was required.

“In every incident that the RCMP has responded to, everyone has been safely rescued and brought to shore,” said Corporal Julie Courchaine of the Manitoba RCMP. “We want everyone to enjoy the beautiful weather and Manitoba lakes, but please do so safely. When you’re using an inflatable, remember to ensure that you are anchored, wear a life jacket, never be in the water alone, be aware of your own abilities, and always remain vigilant as the weather can change quickly.”

August 2020

RCMP Need Leads on B&E Suspects On July 27 between 6:30 am and 3:30 pm, a residence of First Street in Steinbach was broken into. Entry appears to have been gained through a window and numerous items including a guitar collection, electronics, dirt bike helmet, and blood pressure machine were taken.

Thus far police have not been able to identify any suspect(s).

If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

At approximately 10:30 pm on July 9 Steinbach RCMP were dispatched to a hit and run at the intersection of Park Road and Highway #12 in Steinbach. A white Honda Accord with no licencae plate had collided with a red Mazda that was waiting at the lights. The suspect vehicle then proceeded north on Highway #12 at a high rate of speed where he collided with a Volkswagen Jetta.

The suspect vehicle kept driving and collided one more time with a Ford Fusion causing it to go into the ditch. The Honda Accord was then abandoned nearby in the middle of the highway.

A short time later the driver, a 32-year old male from Winnipeg, was located lying on the shoulder of the highway a short distance away from the Honda Accord. He was arrested and taken in to custody.

The driver of the Mazda, a 32year old female from the area, was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The Honda Accord driver is facing several charges, one of them being Drive while over 80% Causing Bodily Harm as well as several Highway Traffic Offences.

Police would like to thank the public for their assistance in apprehending the suspect.

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August 2020

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Museum Offers Weekly Pioneer Demonstrations

Bread baking demonstrations was one of the many activities during the August 1 Demonstration Day.

Due to COVID-19, the Mennonite Heritage Museum was forced to cancel their premier event, Pioneer Days. However, undaunted they have come up with another brilliant way to give visitors a chance to experience the lifestyle of earlier settlers by hosting biweekly farming demonstrations.

Gary Dyck, Executive Director said the best way for people to experience the museum is with a hands-on approach.

“The ability to see, feel and even taste your history makes it more understandable and appealing than simply reading about it. Seeing the long rubber belt that swiftly winds its way from the steamer to the threshing machine, feeling the wheat chaff flowing in the air around you and tasting the wheat gum in your mouth, a treat to enjoy before there was bubble gum makes the concept of ‘threshing’ very tangible,” explained Dyck. “Think of it as a mini-Pioneer day that makes it safe for everyone to take turns visiting the museum and still get that fuller experience. Demon-

strations are an important feature of a pioneer museum like MHV.” Dyck also said that demonstrations instill a sense of ownership. “As I stand there with others from my community, I feel that being a pioneer farmer is still part of my identity.

As the belt keeps whirling around, the lines between my modern life and theirs becomes blurred. Their story, their experience is part of my story and experience. It’s also a good way to get new volunteers. Like a good car salesman we’ve hooked quite a few volunteers by getting them ‘behind the wheel’ and feeling a sense of ownership in a demonstration.”

There will be demonstrations throughout the grounds from baking bread, blacksmithing, harvesting, making flour and many other activities.

If you have not taken an opportunity to tour the Mennonite Heritage Village Museum, there are two more demonstration days planned this summer taking place August 15 and 29.