Dawson Trail Dispatch August 2025

Cyclists Ride Through History in First-Ever Dawson Trek Event

By Dan Guetre

The inaugural Dawson Trek cycling event was hailed a major success, as dozens of riders pedaled through 96 kilometres of history on July 19, despite smoky conditions in the forecast.

Starting at dawn at the Dawson Trail Terminus marker on Provencher Boulevard, participants were treated to cinnamon buns, bannock and jam, coffee, and other energy-fueling snacks courtesy of Tall Grass Prairie Bakery and a dedicated team of volunteers. From there, five pelotons departed at 7 am, making their way along Canada’s oldest trail through

Prairie Grove, the Centre of Canada marker, Ste. Anne, Richer, and finally to the Eastman ATV staging area.

“The smoothness of this event is 100% because of the volunteers,” said event organizer Kyle Waczko, who also participated in the ride.

“From friends and family to people trying out volunteering for the first time — they made this event possible.”

Each checkpoint along the trail featured enthusiastic volunteers offering different snacks and hydration, including a memorable stop where riders were greeted with pickle juice shooters. Safety

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Ritchot’s Sweetest Lemonade Stand Contest Returns for a Third Year

Get ready for a splash of summer fun as the third annual Ritchot’s Sweetest Lemonade Stand Contest returns this August, inviting young entrepreneurs from across the municipality to set up shop and compete for cash prizes and community recognition.

Held over two days—August 21 in St. Adolphe and Ste. Agathe, and August 22 in Ile des Chenes and Grande Pointe—the contest runs from 1 to 4 p.m. in each community. Budding business minds aged 17 and under are encouraged to participate by building their own lemonade stands and presenting their best recipes, customer service, and creative flair.

With just an $80 startup investment, participants will have the opportunity to dive into the basics of small business, from marketing and pricing to booth design and hospitality. Contestants will be judged on two key areas: - Business basics (10 points): Booth design, customer service, and product offerings - Lemonade (10 points): Colour, taste, and price

According to organizers, Ritchot’s Sweetest Lemonade Stand Contest is more than just fun—it’s a chance to foster entrepreneurial spirit in our youth, help them develop confidence, and bring communities together through a shared summer tradition.

Prizes include $200 for the top lemonade stand in each community, with an additional $300 awarded to the overall winner, bringing their total winnings to $500. The overall winner will be selected from among the four community champions and will be announced during the Homegrown Harmonies event in St. Adolphe on September 12.

Voting will start on August 21 at 1 pm and continue until August 23 at 6 pm.

The contest is proudly sponsored by the RM of Ritchot and Community Futures Triple R.

Registration is open until August 15, and space is limited. Interested participants can sign up at ritchot. com/p/ritchot-s-sweetest-lemonade-stand.

Whether you’re mixing lemons or casting votes, this sweet summer tradition is not to be missed.

Starting at dawn at the Dawson Trail Terminus marker on Provencher Boulevard, five pelotons made their way along Canada’s oldest trail through Prairie Grove, the Centre of Canada marker, Ste. Anne, Richer, and finally to the Eastman ATV staging area. Submitted photos

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service

Cyclists Ride Through History in First-Ever

Dawson Trek Event

was a top priority, with volunteer drivers shadowing each group, Victory Training on site as the event medic, and La Bikequerie providing mechanical support.

Only a few minor incidents were reported — one fall and a mild asthma complication — but all riders crossed the finish line proudly. Mechanical hiccups like a flat tire and a broken spoke were quickly resolved on site.

“My wife Rebecca and I tried to think of absolutely everything for this ride,” said Waczko. “Making sure the cyclists were taken care of every pedal of the way.”

The ride culminated in Richer with a heartwarming stop at the Dawson

Trail Museum, where cyclists were welcomed by supporters and a staircase adorned in orange. The event raised between $8,000 and $10,000 for the museum, which maintains 15 trail markers from Northwest Angle to St. Boniface, preserving the Dawson Trail’s historical significance.

“These funds will help the museum continue to care for the artwork and markers along the trail,” Waczko explained. “They’ll be used for repairs, upgrades, and to ensure this history is never forgotten.”

The event concluded with a community celebration — pizza, cold drinks, and Dawson Trek-branded cakes in both English and French

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— and a final group photo at trail marker #3. But Waczko saved one last surprise for the riders: a hidden gold medallion sewn into each participant’s jersey.

“They say there’s lost gold along this Dawson Trail. If you look down at the side of your jersey, you’ll see a piece of that gold,” Waczko told the crowd. “Maybe this is the gold — community coming together, telling stories, and learning about our history. I’m pretty sure we found it.”

With participants already eager for next year’s edition, the Dawson Trek has firmly established itself as a new tradition on one of Canada’s most historic paths.

Treasures of the Dawson Trail

By Andrea Adams

As part of the inaugural Dawson Trek, cycling enthusiasts travelled through the RM of Taché, making a point to stop off at the Centre of Canada.

Upon their arrival they were greeted by Taché Mayor Armand Poirier and his wife Marcia as well as tourists from places such as Mexico who had stopped in to see what was going on at the local attraction.

Dr Paul De Moissac and his son were part of the trek and provided great insight into the journey and how it all came together. Dr De Moissac explained that the cyclists were split into groups of 10 based on their level of cycling experience and comfort. Each group was ac-

companied by pilot vehicles in both the front and back of the pack to avoid congestion on the highways.

Dr De Moissac noted that the motorists they encountered were very patient and supportive, many greeting with a honk and a wave as they passed them along the highway.

The cyclists all arrived in 20 minute intervals and were treated to a light lunch and refreshments prepared by volunteers before continuing on their journey towards Richer.

According to one of the cyclists, the biggest challenge encountered was bugs, especially in the wooded areas, but otherwise they had no issues aside from the thick smoke that was blanketing most of the province and reducing visibility for the cyclists. They opted to skip

Highway 1 and instead took Hwy 206 to connect with their route to Ste. Anne and Richer.

The cyclists were all in good spirits upon their arrival at the park and enjoyed the break and fellowship with the other members of their team.

Dr. De Moissac said they would love to see this become an annual event if the group can gauge enough interest and participation for it.

The ride culminated in Richer with a heartwarming stop at the Dawson Trail Museum, where cyclists were welcomed by supporters and a staircase adorned in orange. The event raised between $8,000 and $10,000 for the museum, which maintains 15 trail markers from Northwest Angle to St. Boniface, preserving the Dawson Trail’s historical significance.

Each checkpoint along the trail featured enthusiastic volunteers offering different snacks and hydration, including a memorable stop where riders were greeted with pickle juice shooters.

Photos by Dan Guetre

As part of the inaugural Dawson Trek, cycling enthusiasts travelled through the RM of Taché, making a point to stop off at the Centre of Canada.

The cyclists all arrived in 20 minute intervals and were treated to a light lunch and refreshments prepared by volunteers before continuing on their journey towards Richer. Photos by Andrea Adams

Conflicted: The Prime Minister’s Portfolio Problem

During the election, Mr. Carney was asked by CBC’s reporter Rosemary Barton whether there were any conflicts of interest that he might have. The answer at the time raised a few eyebrows among some media, as his answer was framed in a question back to the reporter: “What possible conflict would you have?” he replied. Then he quipped back in what some thought was somewhat condescending, “Look inside yourself, Rosemary.”

Yet, it was a valid question. Any leader needs to be free to act in the interest of the people they serve.

A Prime Minister needs to be free to serve in the public interest of Canadians.

Last week, while Prime Minister Carney was on holidays, his longawaited ethics disclosures were released. Confirmed was what was already suspected: to comply with ethical scrutiny, the Prime Minister would have to recuse himself from any decisions related to over 100 companies through a conflictof-interest screen. Furthermore, his investment portfolio includes 574 separate stock holdings, with 91% of them headquartered in the United States, not Canada.

Mr. Carney insists that there is no conflict of interest, as he stated to Reporter Rosemary Barton during the election and reiterated at his swearing-in press conference on March 14th: “My assets are now in a blind trust. So, I don’t know what exactly is in there.”

But as National Post writer Michael Higgins highlighted, “The blind trust in which Carney has shares [is] in hundreds of different companies, a full 16 pages worth, everything from Adobe through to Zoom Communications.”

That’s why Conservatives have proposed that he sell his holdings, allowing a trustee to manage the proceeds in a genuine blind trust— the only responsible path forward. Mr. Carney has instead proposed to recuse himself by leaving the room whenever discussions arise that relate to any of his holdings. However, in light of last week’s disclosures, such an approach risks turning Prime Ministerial deliberations into a constant game of musical chairs. Whether Mr. Carney occupies a seat at those discussions will ultimately be determined by a screening process overseen by his Chief of Staff and the Clerk of the Privy Council, which would concede some level of

transparency—except for the glaring loophole Higgins highlights. That is, the Prime Minister could retain his chair for all matters of “general application”—only as deemed so by the two close staffers.

It gets complicated. Despite Mr. Carney’s statement on March 26th claiming he “owns nothing but cash and personal real estate,” and his February 25th denial of any connection to Brookfield Asset Management, the facts suggest otherwise.

Mr. Carney served as Chairman of Brookfield Asset Management—an entity managing over $1 trillion in assets—raising serious questions about transparency and potential conflicts of interest. Furthermore, from the Liberal election pledges, there are companies that align with Brookfield investments, such as Westinghouse, a nuclear firm that the Prime Minister helped Brookfield acquire while in office. Additionally, Modulaire is connected to pre-fabricated homes and Compass Data Centres, as well as Data4 and AI development.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre called it an unprecedented cornucopia of conflicts, a phrase not commonly heard every day. Yet, it depicts the bottomless nature of po-

tential tensions. And former Integrity Commissioner and now Associate Professor at York University, Ian Stedman, seems to agree when he calls the revelations “the largest scope” he has ever heard of. In a CBC interview, Stedman admits this has not been seen before.

“As long as he (Mr. Carney) is in the conversation, he’s going to have influence over the results.” When asked about the Conservatives suggesting that Mr. Carney sell his investments, turn them into cash, hand them to a trustee who can then invest in a way that is truly blind, Mr. Stedman replies, “I think absolutely that would be the only way for us to know, he’s blind to what is in his share portfolio.”

Perhaps with such a move, reporters will be better poised to answer the Prime Minister’s question, “what possible conflicts would you have?”

Narth Raises Alarm Over NDP Policy Targeting Community Wells in Rural Manitoba

La Vérendrye MLA Konrad Narth is voicing strong opposition to a new policy from Manitoba’s NDP government that mandates the closure of non-compliant community wells, calling it dangerous for rural communities and agriculture.

In a statement released, Narth criticized the Office of Drinking Water, under the direction of the NDP Minister of Environment and Climate Change, for ordering the shutdown of community bulkfill wells across the province. He said the decision is especially harmful during a time of widespread drought affecting many farmers.

“Two community bulk-fill wells have been shut down in my riding—one in Woodridge and one in Piney,” said Narth. “These wells have served these communities for decades and never failed a safety test.”

According to Narth, the new policy mandates the installation of chlorination systems before wells can be reactivated, regardless of their intended use. He emphasized that these bulk-fill wells are primarily used for agricultural purposes and are not intended for drinking water.

The addition of chlorine, he argued, poses a threat to crops and livestock due to chemical interactions.

“Prohibitive costs aside, these wells are non-potable bulk-fill wells used largely for agricultural purposes,” Narth explained. “The addition of chlorination chemicals would negatively mix with those used for agricultural purposes, putting crops and livestock at risk.”

Narth also pointed to public safety concerns, highlighting that the Woodridge well, previously used by fire crews during wildfire season, was unavailable due to the policy.

“This well has critically served local fire crews in the past,” he stated.

“The inability to use it this year hamstrung firefighting efforts in the Southeast.”

Narth said the PC Opposition and local authorities have raised concerns with the NDP government but have received no justification for what he calls an “arbitrary and out-of-touch decision.”

Calling on the government to reconsider, Narth urged the NDP to reverse the mandate and allow continued use of non-potable wells vital to rural infrastructure and emergency services.

“As MLA for La Vérendrye, on behalf of rural Manitobans and our PC Opposition team, I call once again on the NDP Government to reverse this policy and leave non-potable bulk-fill wells alone,” he said. “Manitoba farmers and firefighters must be able to continue serving their communities without unnecessary interference.”

Cut Out the Middleman - Take Advantage of Our Free Trade Agreements

By Monica Guetre

I’ve been in international customs trade compliance close to 30 years and all this angst over tariffs has become stressful and down right annoying – I see the result of what it looks like when one country does not believe in the rule of law and intentionally violates contractual terms of a free trade agreement – it is messy everyday. Yes it’s very worrying and yes, there is a real danger of losing everything we’ve built together just because of the nonsensical whims of one narcissistic person.

Let’s take a step back and look at our advantages – the reality is, the world is at our finger tips. Canadian farms, businesses and those of us who are searching for the next big deal online, your options are most definitely not limited.

If you haven’t already, it’s time to take advantage of our 15 free trade agreements with 51 countries. Keep in mind, even before the NAFTA and the newer CUSMA free trade agreement was signed, we still did business with that country directly south of us. We have what they need. And what we have in resources, agriculture, food, manufacturing, scientific expertise and ingenuity is also needed by an additional 192 other countries, whether there is a signed free trade agreement or not.

Our free trade agreements have, for the most part, eliminated all import tariffs and duties on our international purchases (imports). With our free trade agreements we’ve also gained unfettered access to businesses and consumers in other countries. These agreements give us an advantage over those who mismanage their economy and disadvantage their own citizens.

It’s understandable that buying from the same supplier or selling to the same customer has benefited us for 3 decades, however rely-

ing on a single country to do business with makes us less diversified and less resilient. Selling to one single country means that what you’ve built up over decade’s can crash overnight. Diversifying your supply chain is imperative.

Currently many of our farms, businesses and consumers buy from an American company, but these items are often manufactured elsewhere. Because these American companies are essentially re-sellers, they have already tacked on their mark-up and now your cost is going to climb even higher for goods manufactured in the EU by 15%, and if the item was manufactured in let’s say Brazil, that US company has to pay an additional 50% US import tax on top of their import price.

Now is the time to look elsewhere. Firstly remember our friends who look to us with respect, trust and see our uniquely multi-cultural determination that has guided many Canadians to do the right thing before any of us came along. We’ve already earned these foundational friendships generationally through our thoughtful democracy, discovery, invention, art, music, science and crucially in our service during war and in peacekeeping.

Some Useful Tips of Encouragement:

- Source what you need from us – If you don’t have the time and staff to search then go to your local Chamber of Commerce or to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce (chamber.ca/resources) and ask them for help. According to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce if everyone spent just $25 a month on Canadian-made rather than foreign products it would create 60,000 jobs and increase our GDP by 0.7%. Most of us have made the switch for our every day groceries and a grocery bill is way more than $25. It’s time to think about our economic stability and all the jobs you’ve created.

- Don’t forget that the Federal government has available grants and information ready to go for you. Go to innovation.ised-isde.canada.ca and

also use the expertise of the Canadian Business Development Corporation (bdc.ca).

- If the item is needed urgently and it’s not manufactured in Canada then buy direct from the actual the foreign manufacturer and have it shipped direct to you. A word of caution though… the scammers are ready with fake websites, so do your research and reach out to those you trust to make sure that the website is legitimate.

- Don’t know who the manufacturer is? Then look at your past import documents or flip that item over, look at the label, and buy direct from that manufacturer or even from another foreign distributor not located in the US.

- Even if the foreign manufacturer sold distribution rights for North America to a US company you can still buy from the American company, but have it dropped shipped to you in Canada, bypassing US import customs and the crazy import taxes they are paying and passing on to you. Make sure that the documentation is provided up front before they ship, including documentation that supports the country of manufactured origin under one of the 15 trade agreements we already have. Under this direct-ship scenario your price should not go up. It would also make sense to make a further deal to lower the price because you’re paying the freight and Canadian import fees – essentially you’ve reduced the US supplier’s cost and time.

- Keep in mind when it’s directly shipped to you, many of these suppliers/manufacturers are in one of the 51 countries we have a free trade agreement with. That means you should not have to pay extra Canadian import duty because it has already been eliminated. Even if we don’t have a free trade agreement, that imported item could already be duty free under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and the Most Favored Nation (MFN) principles.

- When you’re selling to an American customer and your product qualifies as Canadian origin under CUSMA

free trade agreement make sure to include your certificate of manufactured origin with your export documents. If you need help to determine that your product qualifies, a Customs Broker Agent can help or go to the CBSA website (cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/cusma-aceum). CBSA, in great detail, lists how to qualify your product and how to fill out the certificate of origin.

It’s a mystery to me why Canadian company’s had not done this already. RBC Economics estimates that over 85% to 90% of Canadian manufactured products qualify under CUSMA. This is great news for your US customers since they can import tax free, but historically only 38% of Canadian business ever filled out the paperwork.

- Make sure your Customs Broker Agent is using Canada’s remission orders that relieve you from paying extra on US imports.

The Federal government put in place a remission order to counter Canadian import surtaxes that healthcare related business and manufacturers,

processors, packagers would have had to pay on US selected tariffable products. If you’re an importer that does qualify under the United States Surtax Order (20251), the United States Surtax Order (Steel and Aluminum 2025) or the United States Surtax Order (Motor Vehicles 2025) then you don’t pay the extra import surtax, or if your import was filed incorrectly you can get a credit for the import surtax. It covers imports that are directly used for public health and safety, and national security. And there is no import surtax on US manufactured products that we use in human healthcare related products or services or directly used within our manufacturing, processing or packaging.

For more information go to cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/ cn-ad/cn25-19-eng to review Customs Notice 25-19: United States Surtax Remission Order.

Very important - You must make sure you and your customs broker agent receive all customs documentation in advance of shipping - the docu-

ments must include the US supplier’s CUSMA/USMCA certificate of origin that proves the product is manufactured in the US.

On the Horizon: Recently the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has heard a couple of lawsuits (cases did not include steel or aluminium US import tariffs) from the U.S. Court of International Trade that challenged Trump’s legality to collect tariffs on imports from Canada and others.

At each stage both cases decidedly ruled in the other country’s favour saying the imposed US import tariffs were too broad and not legal. Currently that loss is being appealed by the US government administration and the tariffs are still being collected. If the US administration’s appeal is lost at the US Supreme Court or returned back to the lower court then the US administration is supposed to desist from collecting these import tariffs imposed on US citizens and the extra tax collected refunded back.

Wildlife Haven Announces Full Lineup of September Fundraising Events

Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre is gearing up for a busy and exciting September with a trio of fundraising events designed to support the medical care and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned wild animals across Manitoba.

The month kicks off with Wildlife Haven’s week-long Online Auction, running from September 16 to 21, where participants can bid on a variety of prizes. Items up for grabs include tickets to local sporting events, family-friendly activity passes, merchandise, gift cards from local businesses, and more. Registration details and item previews are available at wildlifehaven.ca.

Also on September 16, Wildlife Haven teams up with Cy-

pher Environmental to host its 6th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at the Glendale Golf & Country Club. Participants will enjoy a round of golf, a catered lunch, games, refreshments, silent auction opportunities, and a banquet dinner, all while supporting the centre’s wild patients. The tournament offers an ideal mix of fun and philanthropy for corporate teams and community members alike.

Later in the month, Wildlife Haven opens its doors for the annual Open House, scheduled for September 20 and 21 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Visitors will enjoy behind-the-scenes access to the wildlife veterinary hospital, Richardson Waterfowl Overwintering building, Murray Education Centre, and the Wild Ambassador Wing. Guests will also meet a host of animal am-

bassadors, including turtles, snakes, owls, hawks, turkey vultures, and even a bald eagle.

Interactive games for all ages will round out the Open House experience. Tickets are $10 per person, with children aged two and under admitted free. All proceeds directly benefit the care and rehabilitation of Wildlife Haven’s patients.

The Open House takes place at 1028 Arnould Road in Île-desChênes. Tickets and additional details for all events can be found at wildlifehaven.ca or by calling 204202-3806.

With opportunities to give back while enjoying auctions, golf, and close-up wildlife experiences, Wildlife Haven invites the community to come together and support Manitoba’s wildlife this September.

RM of Ritchot Approves 52-Lot Housing Development in Ste. Agathe

By Dan Guetre

A new residential housing development is set to bring much-needed growth to the community of Ste. Agathe, following approval by the RM of Ritchot council at a public hearing held on July 16.

The proposed development, led by property owners Aurele and Christine Baudry, will see 52 single-family lots created in the first phase on a 16-acre parcel of land along Pembina Trail. The project marks a significant step forward for residential expansion in the area.

“We haven’t had devel -

opment in over 10 years,” said Councillor Joel Lemoine during the hearing. “Hopefully other projects come into play.” Lemoine emphasized the importance of diversifying housing options within the municipality, pointing to the value of R8 and R5 zoning designations in supporting affordable, efficient housing models.

“We hope for development in Ste. Agathe, and if other projects come and see the light of day— rental or other opportunities for housing—I think that’s what the need might be in the Town of Ste. Agathe,” he noted.

Council voted unanimously to

approve the development after no objections were raised during the public hearing.

While the green light has been given for the project to proceed, several formal steps remain. The developers must still enter into a development agreement with the municipality, pursue rezoning the land from agricultural to residential use, and apply for variances to accommodate the specific lot sizes outlined in their plans.

Once completed, the new subdivision is expected to provide a significant boost to local housing availability and may serve as a catalyst for future development in the region.

The proposed development (map on left), led by property owners Aurele and Christine Baudry, will see 52 single-family lots created in the first phase on a 16-acre parcel of land along Pembina Trail. The project marks a significant step forward for residential expansion in the area. Submitted photos

Former Senator and Trailblazer Recognized for a Lifetime of Service to Francophone Community with Manitoba’s Highest Honour

By Dan Guetre

Maria Chaput, a respected leader and advocate for francophone rights in Manitoba and across Canada, has been named one of this year’s recipients of the Order of Manitoba, the province’s highest honour. Chaput was among 12 distinguished Manitobans invested into the order during a ceremony presided over by Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville.

Born in 1942 and raised in Ste. Anne, Chaput has long been recognized as a trailblazer in Canadian public life. In 2002, she became the first FrancoManitoban woman appointed to the Senate of Canada, where she served with distinction until her retirement in 2016. Throughout her Senate career and beyond, she championed official bilingualism, education, and cultural preservation for Manitoba’s French-speaking communities.

“Maria Chaput’s lifelong commitment to the growth of Manitoba’s francophone

St.

community has left an enduring mark on our province,” said Lt.-Gov. Neville, chancellor of the Order of Manitoba.

“Her achievements, both in and out of politics, reflect the values of service, inclusion, and leadership that this honour was created to recognize.”

Chaput led numerous fundraising efforts for cornerstone francophone institutions, including Cercle Molière, North America’s oldest continuous French-language theatre, and Maison Gabrielle-Roy, a cultural hub honouring the renowned Franco-Manitoban author. She also played a key role in the modernization of the Official Languages Act, pushing for improved federal support and services for Canada’s linguistic minorities.

A respected voice in Parliament, Chaput supported Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s 2016 reform to implement a non-partisan Senate appointment process. Despite health challenges, she post-

poned her retirement until after the 2015 federal election, explaining candidly that she didn’t want her Senate seat to fall into the hands of former Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s government. Her integrity and advocacy were recognized nationally when she was appointed to the Order of Canada in 2022. The Order of Manitoba, established in 1999, now adds to her long list of accolades and acknowledges her continued impact on Manitoba’s social and cultural fabric.

Throughout her career, Chaput has been a tireless advocate for French-language education, accessibility, and the vitality of minority-language communities in western Canada. Her leadership and example continue to inspire a new generation of community builders.

Members of the Order of Manitoba may use the initials O.M. after their names for life. The list of all recipients is displayed permanently in the Manitoba Legislative Building.

Malo and RM of

De Salaberry Launch Business Beautification Grant Program

By Dan Guetre

The St. Malo & District Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Rural Municipality of De Salaberry, has officially launched the 2025 Business Beautification Grant Program, an initiative aimed at enhancing the visual appeal of commercial properties and boosting community pride.

Now open for applications, the program offers a 50/50 matching grant of up to $3,000 per eligible chamber member to support exterior improvements to buildings, storefronts, and outdoor spaces throughout the RM of De Salaberry and the LUD of St. Malo.

The goal of the program is to support local businesses while contributing to the charm, character, and economic vitality of our communities in the belief that a more attractive commercial dis-

trict helps draw visitors and encourages investment.

Eligible projects include building facelifts, new signage, landscaping upgrades, and exterior lighting enhancements.

Whether replacing outdated facades or creating more inviting storefronts, applicants have creative freedom to pursue improvements that best suit their property.

To qualify, applicants must:

- Be located within the RM of De Salaberry or the LUD of St. Malo;

- Be commercial property owners, tenants (with written landlord consent), notfor-profits, or social enterprises;

- Hold an active membership with the St. Malo & District Chamber of Commerce.

The grant will cover 50% of project costs, up to a maximum of $3,000. Proj-

ects may exceed $6,000 in total cost, but only up to $3,000 will be reimbursed upon successful completion and approval.

The application deadline is September 30, 2025. Interested parties can submit applications via email to stmalochamberofcommerce@gmail.com or edo@ rmdesalaberry.mb.ca.

Not currently a Chamber member?

The Chamber encourages local business owners to join and take advantage of this and other future support programs.

Organizers hope the program will inspire a wave of improvements across the region, making downtown and commercial areas more inviting for residents, tourists, and shoppers alike.

For more information on eligibility and project guidelines, contact the Chamber or RM office directly.

Taché Launches Business Retention and Expansion Survey to

The Community Development Corporation (CDC) of Taché has announced the launch of a Business Retention & Expansion (BR+E) initiative aimed at strengthening the local economy by supporting the long-term success of businesses within the municipality.

Led by the Economic Development Officer, Martha Petrusevich and her team, the BR+E project will involve direct outreach to businesses in communities across the RM, including Landmark, Lorette, Linden, Ste-Geneviève, and the surrounding rural areas.

Support Local Business Growth

The purpose of this initiative is to better understand the current needs, challenges, and opportunities faced by local business owners and operators.

“This initiative is about listening to our business community,” said Petrusevich. “We want to hear what’s working well, where the gaps are, and how we as a municipality can provide better support to help businesses grow, succeed, and stay here for the long term.”

Over the coming weeks, the Economic Development team will be distribut-

ing a short survey to businesses and, in some cases, following up with one-onone interviews. The survey will collect valuable information on topics such as workforce needs, infrastructure, space requirements, challenges to growth, and plans for future expansion.

The feedback gathered through this process will help guide the Taché Community CDC in identifying how best to support local businesses and prioritize future programming and resources.

If you would like to fill out the survey, please reach out to edo@rmtache.ca.

Maria Chaput, a respected leader and advocate for francophone rights in Manitoba and across Canada, has been named one of this year’s recipients of the Order of Manitoba, the province’s highest honour. Chaput was among 12 distinguished Manitobans invested into the order during a ceremony presided over by Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville. Submitted photos

Art in the Park: A Creative Oasis Blooms at Roseau River Park

A quiet corner of Roseau River Park has been transformed into a colourful and whimsical retreat, thanks to the efforts of the Woodmore Women’s Institute and a group of local student artists.

The community initiative, dubbed “Art in the Park”, was made possible through a grant from Southern Health’s “Making Places” program. The project aimed to enhance a natural grassy grove under a cluster of trees by the river, turning it into a space where art and nature meet in harmony.

“We wanted to create a place for people visiting the park to discover something unique, colourful, playful, and created by hand,” said Janet Kroeker, a representative of the Woodmore Women’s Institute.

Seven art students— five from Roseau Valley School and two from Shevchenko School— were invited to bring their creative visions to life. Each student designed and painted a mural inspired by the theme of “seasons,” using prepared plywood as their canvas. The finished murals now hang among the trees, blending vibrant

surroundings.

In addition to the murals, visitors can enjoy what Kroeker describes as “Tree Art,” a series of collaborative pieces created by many community members and hung along the river trail and within the grove itself.

Adding an element of interactive fun, the group also installed a handcrafted wooden checkerboard mounted on a sturdy oak stump. Two additional stumps serve as seating, and pails filled with coloured rocks are available for checkers.

The result is a welcoming space designed not only for artistic appreciation, but also for playful exploration and quiet reflection.

“We agreed, from the start of the project, to create a space that complimented the natural beauty of the park,” said Kroeker. “Our project, ‘Art in the Park’, has been successfully installed!”

One final piece is still to come, but the Woodmore Women’s Institute hopes those who stumble upon the grove will find joy in the unexpected art and treat the space with respect.

Whether drawn by curiosity or surprise, visitors to Roseau River Park now have one more reason to stop and stay awhile in a special place where art and nature come together under the trees.

Hanging murals by the students.

Woodmore Women’s Institute committee and friends installing ‘Art in the Park’. Hanging tree art and a newly installed checkerboard were put up along with the murals.

Roseau Valley School graduate Fabianna Kelly.

Natalie Allmendinger, Roseau Valley School student.

In addition to the murals, visitors can enjoy “Tree Art,” a series of collaborative pieces created by many community members and hung along the river trail and within the grove itself.

Submitted photos

St. Pierre-Jolys Fire Department Hosts Multi-Department Grain Rescue Training

By Dan Guetre

Firefighters from across southeastern Manitoba gathered in mid-June for a hands-on grain rescue training exercise hosted by the St. Pierre-Jolys Fire Department, aimed at preparing first responders for one of agriculture’s most dangerous emergencies — grain entrapment.

The specialized training was led by Woodridge Fire Chief Joel Grenier, from the RM of Piney, and supported by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA), which provided its mobile grain entrapment simulation trailer. The trailer features a modified grain bin with an open top, allowing for realistic rescue practice in a controlled environment.

Among those participating in the training were firefighters from the Reynolds Fire Department and other nearby departments. The exercise included both classroom instruction and practical rescue scenarios designed to give firefighters the tools and techniques they need to respond safely and effectively in a grain entrapment emergency.

According to CASA, grain entrapments are among the

most hazardous situations first responders face in rural firefighting. The urgency is high, and the risks are significant—not only for the victim but also for the rescuers. Proper training is absolutely essential.

Grain entrapment incidents, often occurring on farms or in grain handling facilities, can result in fatalities in a matter of minutes. Responders must follow strict safety protocols, and even minor missteps can have severe consequences.

That’s why CASA developed its BeGrainSafe program, launched in 2017, which includes firefighter training, public education, and safety demonstrations.

CASA’s BeGrainSafe trailer travels across Canada to raise awareness and provide practical instruction on grain safety. The program emphasizes the importance of prevention, but also equips emergency responders with specialized tools such as grain rescue tubes and augers for safe extrication.

With grain entrapment fatalities on the rise, events like

this training exercise play a crucial role in improving emergency preparedness in rural communities. Through collaboration between local fire departments and national safety organizations, re-

sponders are better equipped to handle the unique challenges presented by agricultural emergencies.

For more information about CASA and its BeGrainSafe program, visit casa-acsa.ca.

Young Author Sets Out to Rediscover Reynolds’ Rural Roots

By Dan Guetre

A new local history book is in development for the Rural Municipality of Reynolds, aiming to preserve and share the unique stories of the region’s communities.

Titled Rediscovering Reynolds: A History of Manitoba’s Rural Communities, the book will feature archival photographs, maps, and personal reflections highlighting the histories of communities such as Spruce Siding, Hadashville, Ste. Rita, McMunn, and others in the RM. Murdoch Buchanan, who is spearheading the project, said the goal is to publish a book that residents can purchase through the RM of Reynolds municipal office.

“This project is a local history book of the RM of Reynolds,” said Buchanan. “It will highlight the unique histories of the communities found in the RM.”

While Buchanan doesn’t have direct family ties to the area, his interest in Reynolds’ past began earlier this year after his family purchased a farm in the region.

“I love learning about the history of other places,” he said. “When my family bought a farm in Reynolds, I wanted to know everything about it, but there was not a lot to find all in one place.”

That realization became the motivation behind the book. He said accessing historical information often required digging through many disconnected resources, and he hopes this project will consolidate that history into a single, accessible format.

Buchanan is a student historian with a keen interest in rural prairie history, Ukrainian heritage, and community memory.

Although this is his first time writing a book, he previously authored a research paper on the history of Spruce Siding—also known as Sadlow—which helped lay the foundation for this larger project.

He is also credited as a co-author on entries for Spruce School No. 1502 and the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church and Cemetery.

The focus of the book will remain exclusively on the RM of Reynolds, though Buchanan says future projects may explore neighbouring municipalities such as Whitemouth or Ste. Anne.

He is passionate about uncovering overlooked stories and preserving the legacy of small communities through historical research, interviews, and archival material.

Buchanan plans to continue writing and contributing to Manitoba’s historical record as he enters Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute in fall 2025.

Currently in the research phase, he hopes to complete the project by mid-summer 2026. Community members are encouraged to contribute by submitting historical photos or materials.

Anyone with photos related to the RM of Reynolds is invited to email them to rmreynoldsproject@gmail.com.

the book will feature archival photographs, maps, and personal reflections highlighting the histories of communities such as Spruce Siding, Hadashville, Ste. Rita, McMunn, and others in the RM. Submitted photo

Murdoch Buchanan, who is spearheading the project, said the goal is to publish a book that residents can purchase through the RM of Reynolds municipal office. Titled Rediscovering Reynolds: A History of Manitoba’s Rural Communities,

Firefighters from across southeastern Manitoba gathered in mid-June for a hands-on grain rescue training exercise hosted by the St. Pierre-Jolys Fire Department, aimed at preparing first responders for one of agriculture’s most dangerous emergencies — grain entrapment.

Photos courtesy of Reynolds Fire Department

Sundown Gymkhana to Celebrate Decades of Family, Fun, and Community Spirit

By Dan Guetre

What began as a modest gathering of horse enthusiasts around a campfire has grown into one of Manitoba’s most anticipated family weekends. The Sundown Gymkhana continues to celebrate the dream of its founder, Abe Rempel, whose love of horses, family, and community sparked a tradition that has grown beyond expectations.

Wayne Fuchs, one of the event’s long-time organizers, says the success of the Gymkhana all started with Rempel’s vision.

“His love of family, horses and the ability to bring these together sparked the beginning of what has become an amazing weekend for family and friends,” said Fuchs.

The first Gymkhana featured a simple riding ring—still in use today—and just a handful of riders. Over the years, the event has expanded dramatically.

“As time has progressed, we have had up to 97 riders, including as many as 21 peewee riders as young as 6 months old,” said Fuchs.

From its humble beginnings,

the event now boasts a full slate of attractions: a large party tent housing a silent auction, a fully equipped canteen, a kid’s play zone, a lakeside covered stage and dance floor, a zip line, canoe and pedal boat access, 50/50 draws, and even a horse raffle.

This year’s prize? A fully tacked yearling Palomino gelding, with tickets available at $20 each or six for $100.

Weekend festivities kick off Saturday, August 23 with the first day of horse events, followed by a spaghetti supper, live music by the lake, and a traditional bonfire. Sunday features a community breakfast, Cowboy Church, and the marquee Gymkhana event in the afternoon.

The Sundown Gymkhana has become known for its high payouts, with cash prizes and custom buckles.

“We have become one of the, if not, the highest payout for gymkhana including first place buckles for each event, including a buckle and cash prizes for each peewee who rides,” noted Fuchs.

Beyond the competition, the Gymkhana has stayed true to its mission of giving back.

“Our proceeds are always donated to those in need,” Fuchs noted. “This year, we’re proud to again partner with Guardians of the Children, a group that supports children and families through some very dark times.” A portion of funds is also reserved to help local families facing hardship.

Guardians of the Children is a biker organization dedicated to protecting the victims of child abuse. The mission of Guardians of the Children is to recognize and react to child abuse and educate the public to do the same.

Fuchs expressed deep gratitude to the volunteers, sponsors, and community members who make the weekend possible.

“Thousands of dollars in cash, prizes, and equipment are donated each year,” he explained. “We get kinda emotional thinking of all the helpful parties involved in making this weekend work so smooth.”

As the Sundown Gymkhana marks over two decades of community and camaraderie, it remains a shining example of what can happen when a simple dream meets generous hearts and a love for rural life.

Tips to Protect Against Wildfire Smoke and Poor Air Quality

As wildfire activity continues across the region, Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care is urging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke and poor air quality.

Smoke from wildfires can cause a range of symptoms including sore eyes, coughing, a runny nose, and throat irritation. It can also exacerbate pre-existing health conditions such as asthma, high blood pressure, and heart and lung disease. Health officials warn that heavier smoke and prolonged exposure can lead to more serious, longterm health concerns.

To help reduce exposure and stay safe, Manitobans are encouraged to:

- Limit outdoor activity, especially strenuous exercise, and plan outings when smoke levels are lower

- Stay indoors with windows and doors closed, using fans or

air conditioning set to recirculate

- Use HEPA-filtered air purifiers if available

- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

- Avoid activities that pollute indoor air, such as smoking or burning candles or incense

- Set car air conditioners to recirculate to avoid drawing in outdoor smoke

Those most at risk include infants and children, pregnant individuals, seniors, people with chronic illnesses, and those who work or exercise outdoors. These individuals are advised to take precautions even when smoke levels are light to moderate.

Healthy individuals should begin to take precautions when air quality becomes poor.

Manitobans are also advised to check in on family members, friends, and neighbours who may be vulnerable, and to start planning how to support them during periods of poor air quality.

Officials note that wildfire smoke may coincide with extreme heat

events, which pose an additional risk.

“For most people, heat exposure is more dangerous than smoke,” said the department, suggesting that in some cases it may be safer to open windows to keep cool despite the smoke.

While smoke exposure poses risks, staying active remains important for many.

“Some people may choose to be outdoors for their mental health and well-being, even during smoky conditions,” said the province. In such cases, individuals are encouraged to reduce exposure as much as possible while balancing physical and mental health needs.

To monitor current air quality conditions, residents can visit weather.gc.ca/airquality/ healthmessage.

For health-related questions or concerns, Manitobans can contact their health-care provider or call Health Links–Info Santé at 204788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257 (tollfree).

Sundown Gymkhana is running a horse raffle tied to their annual event.

Lorette Girl Wins Friendship Award

The Samantha Mason Friendship Award is awarded to kids who make a difference in their communities by standing up to bullies, fostering kindness and friendships and respecting those around them.

This award is presented annually in partnership with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and GM Wade Miller. Recipients are nominated and the winners are chosen by Sam’s Foundation and the Blue Bombers Organization.

This year 11 youth were awarded The Samantha Mason Friendship Award during a special ceremony at the June 29th Bombers Game.

Lorette’s Charlotte Adams, age 8 and entering 4th grade this fall was nominated by an anonymous party and was chosen as one of the recipients of the award. She was chosen for her outstanding community spirit, kindness towards others and demonstrating her strong abilities to stand up to bullies in and outside of school.

Charlotte said she was very excited to have learned that she won the award and was thankful to those who had nominated her.

She wants other kids to know that kindness can go a long way for someone cause you never know

what kind of day they are having and that sometimes small gestures like a smile, a wave or a hug for those who might want one can go a long way in brightening someone’s day.

She also wants other kids to know that it’s ok to stand up to bullies and those who hurt others and to not be afraid to speak up when they need to.

Sam’s Foundation was formed in memory of Samantha Mason who struggled with depression and took her life back in May of 2015 after being the victim of school bullying.

For more information on Samantha and Sam’s Foundation visit samsfoundation.ca.

Southern HealthSanté Sud Urges Summer Vigilance Against Measles

As summer activities ramp up across the region, Southern Health-Santé Sud is reminding families to take precautions against measles by ensuring everyone is up to date with their vaccinations. With increased travel, large gatherings, and children attending camps or day programs, public health officials are emphasizing the importance of immunization to prevent outbreaks.

Measles is a highly contagious and potentially serious disease that spreads through the air, particularly in enclosed or crowded environments like tents, vehicles, homes, and community centres. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash. However, people can be contagious even before these symptoms appear — making early vaccination critical.

“Measles can cause severe complications, especially for infants, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems,” noted Southern Health-Santé Sud in a recent statement. “Vaccination is the most effective way to protect your family and those around you.”

Health officials urge residents to:

- Review immunization records for all household members

- Confirm that children, teens, and adults are up to date with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine

- Book appointments with local public health offices or healthcare providers if vaccines are missing

- Watch for symptoms such as fever, cough, or rash after travel or attending large events

Two doses of the measles vaccine provide nearly 100% protection. In Manitoba, the first dose is typically administered at 12 months of age, with the second between ages 4 and 6. In response to a growing outbreak, Manitoba Health has expanded eligibility to include an early dose for children aged 6 to under 12 months who meet certain criteria.

Southern Health-Santé Sud encourages families to act now before travel and summer camps begin in full swing. For a full list of measles vaccine eligibility in Manitoba, visit gov.mb.ca/ health/publichealth/cdc/vaccineeligibility.

Lorette’s Charlotte Adams, age 8 and entering 4th grade this fall was nominated by an anonymous party and was chosen as one of the recipients of the award.

Submitted photo

Centre of Canada Market Grows in Popularity

A new summer tradition is taking root at the Centre of Canada Park. The Centre of Canada Market, launched this year by the RM of Taché, has quickly become a community favourite — drawing local vendors, families, and visitors from across the region.

Over the course of three markets so far this summer, attendance and vendor interest have steadily grown. The inaugural market welcomed 12 vendors and saw a solid turnout for a

first-time event. The second market doubled in size, with 24 vendors and a fantastic crowd, including many families who came out to enjoy the bouncy castles and family-friendly atmosphere.

“We were thrilled to see so many families and community members enjoying the park, supporting local vendors, and just spending time together,” said Martha Petrusevich, Economic Development Officer for the RM of Taché. “It’s exactly what

we hoped the market would become — a place where local business and community spirit meet.”

The third market, while boasting the largest number of vendors yet at 30, was unfortunately impacted by heavy rain and a thunderstorm that dampened attendance. Still, spirits remained high, and the community continues to show strong support for the initiative.

Each market features a growing variety of local products — including

locally raised bison, fresh produce, honey, German baked goods, and much more. Whether you’re shopping for farm-to-table ingredients or unique handmade items, there’s something for everyone.

Looking ahead, there are two more markets scheduled this summer — August 8 and August 22. To better serve both vendors and visitors, the hours have been adjusted earlier, running from 1 pm to 6:30 pm. These changes are intended to make the

market more accessible and comfortable during the summer heat.

Held at the iconic Centre of Canada Park, the market has become more than just a shopping destination — it’s a celebration of local entrepreneurship and a reminder of the community’s unique place at the very heart of the nation.

For vendor inquiries or to stay updated, email edo@rmtache.ca or follow the RM of Taché on social media.

I always look in the river for the lilies in July to see if they are in bloom. I find them very pretty.

Photo by Ginette Perron

Held at the iconic Centre of Canada Park, the market

has become more than just a shopping destination

— it’s a celebration of local entrepreneurship and a reminder of the community’s unique place at the very heart of the nation.

Drop-In Centre

Creates Regular Fundraising BBQs

By Andrea Adams

The Cove Youth Drop-In Centre in Lorette is hosting Wednesday barbecues all through the summer months until the end of August.

Stop by the Cove from 5-7 pm on Wednesdays and for $10 you can purchase a burger, chips, cookie and a soft drink, all served by local youth.

Funds raised are going towards helping keep the youth drop-in-centre running, especially during these busy summer months when the youth of the community are looking for a cool and safe place to hang out with their friends.

Those in attendance have praised the delicious meal and the opportunity they get to meet friends new and old for dinner all while supporting this fantastic cause.

Mayor Calls for Urgent Government Action to Shore Up Services at Local Hospital

Mayor Yvan St. Vincent of the Town of Ste. Anne is raising urgent concerns about the future of health care in southeastern Manitoba, calling on the provincial government to address what he describes as a growing crisis at Ste. Anne Hospital.

“As a resident first and Mayor of the Town of Ste. Anne, I feel compelled to raise serious concerns about the lack of support for our local hospital and its impact on health care access for residents of southeastern Manitoba,” said St. Vincent. Despite reduced emergency department hours in recent years, St. Vincent noted that Ste. Anne Hospital continues to serve nearly the same number of patients annually.

“Once a patient arrives, the staff stay until everyone has been seen. Whether the emergency room is open 8, 12, or 24 hours a day, the demand for care remains high—and unwavering,” he explained.

St. Vincent’s greater concern is for the health of residents delayed in seeking treatment.

“We are increasingly hearing of patients who are much sicker than they should be, simply because they waited

too long to seek care—often avoiding longer wait times in other hospitals, or because they lack transportation to reach them,” he said. “Preventable issues are becoming emergencies.”

He emphasized that geography should not dictate access to care.

“No one should be punished for living in rural Manitoba. Health care should not be a privilege of geography,” said St. Vincent. “While urban hospitals also experience long waits, that is all the more reason to bolster care in rural communities like ours.”

He dismissed arguments that Steinbach, located about 15 minutes away, can absorb the burden. “Steinbach is growing rapidly, and its hospital is already under significant strain,” he said. “The recent small expansion in Steinbach, while welcome, is simply a drop in the bucket.”

The mayor expressed frustration over what he described as repeated silence from both the current and previous provincial governments, including Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Uzoma Asagwara and Premier Wab Kinew.

“To date, I have received no response to my repeated

requests for a meeting or for them to tour Ste. Anne Hospital in person,” said St. Vincent. “This silence is frustrating, especially in light of repeated public commitments by this government to improve health care access for all Manitobans.”

St. Vincent also criticized the regional health authority for its unwillingness to designate Ste. Anne Hospital as a regional facility—something he believes is essential to restoring full emergency hours and providing services such as lab work and X-rays onsite.

“Currently, some samples are being driven to other facilities for testing—an inefficient and unnecessary process when our hospital is equipped to do more, if only it were staffed accordingly,” he explained.

He called for a phased and realistic plan to restore and expand services, adding that the town already has the infrastructure, committed medical professionals, and a hospital board ready to act.

“This is also a matter of equity,” said St. Vincent. “Our region has a significant Francophone, Métis, and Indigenous population. Ste. Anne Hospital has the capacity and

the heart to serve these communities with dignity and excellence—if given the resources it needs.”

Calling the situation a “winwin opportunity,” St. Vincent urged the provincial government to invest in rural care as a way to reduce pressure on urban hospitals and improve outcomes across the region.

“I publicly invite Minister Asagwara and Premier Kinew to visit us at Ste. Anne Hospital,” he said. “Come see firsthand the incredible work being done—and what more could be accomplished with your support.”

Young Taxpayers May Need to File Tax Return

With the introduction of two new federal benefits in the past year, we now encourage young taxpayers to file a tax return a year earlier than normal.

Up to now, the GST credit was available to young taxpayers only once then turned 19, so filing a tax return before you turned 19 was not important unless you were expecting a refund from tax deducted on employment income.

Now once a taxpayer turns 18, they may qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan CDCP and possibly the new Canada Disability Benefit CDB.

Born Before June 2008?

If you or someone you know was born before June 2008, they should file a 2024 tax return if they qualify for either or both of these new federal benefits.

If you qualify for one or both

benefits, and you are 18+ now, or turning 18 by next May 2026, you need to file your 2024 tax return, even with no income earned, in order to enrol in either plan between now and next May 2026. By next June, you will need to file your 2025 tax return.

Canadian Dental Care Plan

Once an individual turns 18, they may qualify for the CDCP if they do not have dental benefits through their own employer, or through their parents’ dental plan, or through a dental plan offered thru their university or college.

Enrolment to this new dental plan for those 18+ began May 2025.

To enrol in the plan, the taxpayer 18+ must have filed their 2024 tax return.

Those who are 18 now, or turning 18 by next May 2026, need to file their 2024 tax return, even with no income earned, in order to enrol in the

CDCP between now and next May 2026.

Once your 2024 tax return is filed and you have received your Notice of Assessment, then you can enrol online: search “Canada Dental Plan”. Canada Disability Benefit

This new plan started July 2025. The recently announced federal benefit of up to $200 per month can be paid to those 18-64 that qualify for the DTC disability tax credit and if your income is below a certain level. The monthly amount is reduced based on individual (and spouse if applicable) income.

If you are an individual who qualifies for the DTC and who recently turned 18 or will be turning 18 by next June, you need to file your 2024 tax return even if you have no income to report.

The maximum benefit is $200 per month, depending on the income you reported on

your 2024 tax return. And the monthly income will be recalculated each July based on the income reported on your previous tax return.

Need Help Applying?

If you or someone you know needs help applying for either of these two new federal benefits, please contact our office, we may be able to help you. 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 Clearview Co-op) or Info@ SteAnneTaxService.ca.

Youth Volunteers from The Cove in Lorette assisting at a Wednesday Barbecue event with organizer and Cove Operator Michael Dueck (far right). Photo by Andrea Adams

Mayor Yvan St. Vincent of the Town of Ste. Anne is raising urgent concerns about the future of health care in southeastern Manitoba, calling on the provincial government to address what he describes as a growing crisis at Ste. Anne Hospital. File photo

Niverville Officially Opens Station Lands Heritage Park

in years ago

Community members and officials gathered on July 18 to celebrate the official grand opening of Station Lands Heritage Park, a new addition to Niverville’s growing network of green spaces that pays tribute to the town’s rich history.

Mayor Myron Dyck was joined by Cornie Funk, Bernie Falk, Ernie Braun, and members of town council for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the completion of the park that began with a

“The Town of Niverville has a rich history, from being home to the first grain elevator in Western Canada to being the fastest-growing community in the province in the last census,” said Mayor Dyck. “Much of that history-making has only been possible through collaboration… and it seems only fitting that the building of this park also took place through collaboration with these partners.”

The park was made possible in part through financial support from the Province of Manitoba, which contributed $75,000 in funding through the Building Sustainable Communities (BSC) grant over two project phases— covering half of the total project cost.

Designed with heritage in mind, the park features a rebuilt well, made using reclaimed bricks, along with native grasses, shrubs, and trees to maintain a historical and natural atmosphere. A

timber frame shelter over the well, designed and constructed by the Steinbach Regional Secondary School Carpentry Class, adds an authentic and educational element to the space.

Station Lands Heritage Park now forms part of Niverville’s expansive network of over 160 acres of public green space and more than 24 kilometres of active transportation trails, offering both residents and visitors a new place to gather, reflect, and connect with the town’s roots.

Richer Celebrates Longtime Educator with New Pathway Dedication

By Dan Guetre

A well-respected teacher’s decades of dedication and positive impact in the classroom are being formally recognized with a special community tribute in the heart of Richer.

A new pathway running alongside Richer School has been officially named “Ms K’s Way” in honour of Lorna Kopelow, affectionately known as “Ms K” by generations of students. The newly designated trail stretches from Dawson Road, runs parallel to the school grounds, and connects to the residential neighbourhood behind the school grounds.

The initiative to name the path was recently approved by both the LUD of Richer and the RM of Ste. Anne.

Kopelow has taught at Richer Elementary School for over 30 years, becoming a cornerstone of the community’s educational landscape. Known for fostering a fun and engaging environment, she has inspired hundreds of students through her dedication, creativity, and commitment to lifelong learning.

“I am extremely pleased and gratified that she is being honoured in this way,” said Wendy Bloomfield, Chair of the Seine River School Division. “She has had an amazing impact on hundreds and hundreds of students over the last several decades.”

The idea to commemorate Kopelow’s contributions began earlier this year, led by school principal Mark Eismendi and Ward 3 Council-

lor Pat Stolwyk.

“Pat Stolwyk and I have been working on this since the winter and we are planning an unveiling ceremony the first full week back,” said Eismendi.

“The RM of Ste. Anne and the LUD of Richer are proud to recognize Ms. Lorna Kopelow’s decades of dedicated service to education and her incredible impact on generations of students. Naming the pathway ‘Ms K’s Way’ is a meaningful way to honour not only her commitment to teaching but also the strong, positive relationships she built with students, staff, and the wider community. It’s a lasting tribute to a teacher who truly made a difference,” wrote the RM of Ste. Anne in a statement.

Kopelow, now in her 35th

HyLife Celebrates 10 Million Safe Driving Miles with Special Honour for Drivers

By Dan Guetre

Six professional drivers with HyLife and its transportation arm, LPR, have reached an extraordinary collective milestone—10 million miles of safe driving. The achievement, recognized during a special ceremony at the company’s head office in Steinbach, is being hailed as a testament to the drivers’ skill, dedication, and unwavering commitment to safety.

The milestone is equivalent to circling the globe over 400 times or making four round trips to the moon. While the numbers are staggering, HyLife officials emphasized the deeper significance of the feat—an enduring focus on responsibility, pride, and safety on the road.

Among the honourees was Andy Donaghy, who has logged over three million safe miles, setting a company record.

“I’ve been driving for 31 years now, and I learned everything from my dad, who was a driver too,” said Donaghy, who owns his own truck—gifted to him by a longtime colleague. “Every time I get behind the wheel, I’m grateful for that opportunity.”

To mark the occasion, HyLife hosted a celebration featuring speeches, awards, and a three-tiered cake symbolizing the one-, two-, and three-million-mile achievements. The drivers were formally inducted into the HyLife Million Mile Club, with their names displayed on a dedicated wall of honour.

Jeffery Rempel, who recently joined the Million Mile Club with one million safe miles, described the event as surreal.

“To have everyone cheering – this is something I will always remember. Every day, I just do my best to get home safely to my family,” he said.

For Jeff Dotty, another inductee with four decades of driving experience and one million safe miles under his belt, safety remains the top priority.

“Don’t take dangerous chances. It’s not worth my life or someone else’s. Knowing your boundaries and your environment is everything,” he noted.

The recognition reflects more than individual dedication—it also shines a spotlight on HyLife’s broader culture of safety. Drivers often face challenging conditions, from icy highways to remote rural roads, and are responsible not just for transporting goods, but for sharing the road responsibly.

year of teaching at Richer, continues to be a pillar of the school community.

“Her passion and patience for working with young children is inspiring every single day,” Eismendi said. “She continuously strives to connect and inspire her students so they can excel and reach their potential. Equally impressive is her persistent desire to continue her own learning in an effort to support student development.”

Plans are currently underway for an official unveiling of “Ms K’s Way,” which is expected to take place in early September. The event will invite students, school staff, division representatives, and the broader Richer community to celebrate the educator’s enduring legacy.

“It takes a special kind of person to drive—someone with grit, patience, and an unwavering sense of responsibility,” said Sergey Yaglinsky, Manager of Driver Services at HyLife. “The HyLife Million Mile Club is our way of saying thank you to the drivers who’ve literally gone the distance, both safely and consistently.”

With this milestone, HyLife continues to champion professional excellence and safe driving practices in the transportation sector—mile after mile.

From left to right: Jeff Rempel, Jeff Dotty, Andy Donaghy, Ted Wachna, and Robin Penner. Missing from photo: Michael Schalla.

Photo courtesy of Hylife

Mayor Myron Dyck, Cornie Funk, Bernie Falk and Ernie Braun cut the ribbon to officially open Station Lands Heritage Park. Submitted photo

By Dan Guetre sod-turning

in the fall of 2022.

The Nature Norm Report: Learning in the Tall-Grass Prairie

By Norm Gregoire and Kara Peters Parkinson

I grew up outdoors. I learned patience while watching frogs, sitting still for what seemed like hours at a time, waiting for insect prey to amble by. I learned respect when I stumbled across a white-tailed deer fawn and gave them the space they needed until their mother came back. I learned what joy was while sitting high up in an aspen tree when a boreal owl flew in to join me. These are not just fond memories but key moments in my life that helped me grow into the person I am today.

I realize how lucky I was to grow up in a rural setting, but many youth do not get this opportunity. Luckily there are now programs available to ensure all youth can learn from the frogs, just like I did.

The Shared Legacy Partnership was thrilled to support the Gerhard E. Dekker Regenerative Education Center (GEDREC) this spring to offer a Forest and Nature School! The Nature Conservancy of Canada hosted this incredible initiative at the Weston Family Tall Grass Prairie Interpretive Centre. Once a week, for ten weeks, learners returned to the tall-grass prairie and witnessed the changes from spring to summer on the preserve. There were also noticeable changes in the learners from the first to last week as all attendees found their groove in the outdoors.

So, what exactly is forest school? Forest and Nature School is a research-backed model of education that is rooted in supporting the ways that human beings naturally learn best: outdoors, on uneven terrain, with the land, in social settings, with mentors/facilitators modelling respect and reciprocal relationships with others and with the land, with lots of opportunity for creative thought, exploration, inquiry, learning, and free play.

Forest and Nature School always occurs on the land and with the land, with learners returning repeatedly to the same natural area, developing a nuanced and deep relationship with the inhabitants and constituents of that place. Being outdoors is deeply beneficial to our well-being. It can help children (and people of all ages!) regulate their nervous systems and improve learning outcomes.

Each day at Forest and Nature School is co-created by learners, facilitators, and what is happening on the land. So, a day when the snow is sticky is going to lend itself to sculptures and forts, whereas a day when the pollen is blowing may elicit conversations about pollination. Kids may wonder where is that coming from? And a whole lesson can emerge from this, or a series of lessons and explorations that unfold over time.

Learners may be energetic or restful on a given day, and facilitators are constantly assessing the energy to see what would be best to do at a given time—active games, bushcraft/woodworking, art, restful nature journaling, sit spots, etc.

Forest and Nature School teaches learners how to care for themselves, others, and the land well. Learners are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions, to follow their creative inspirations, and to play in ways that challenge, inspire, and lead to joy and meaningful personal growth.

GEDREC Forest and Nature School is now accepting registration for the next session beginning in September at the Weston Family Tall Grass Prairie Interpretive Centre near Stuartburn and Tetrault Park in La Broquerie. Both home school and public school learners are encouraged to join! For more information, please visit gerhardcenter.org.

Adventures with Nature Norm

Learning in the tall-grass prairie is for all ages! Please join me and facilitators from GEDREC Forest and Nature School on August 30 as we enjoy a day of learning on the prairie. For more information, please contact me at info@sharedlegacymb.ca. I hope to see you there!

Manitoba Gospel Jamboree Set to Inspire Once Again in Richer Venue

By Dan Guetre

One of Manitoba’s longest-running and most beloved musical traditions is back for another unforgettable celebration. The Manitoba Gospel Jamboree returns on August 23, bringing a full day of uplifting music, heartfelt fellowship, and soul-nourishing food to the Premier Tech Multiplex in Dawson Trail Park, Richer. Richer has been chosen as the new home for the event.

Now in its 40th-plus year, the Jamboree has deep roots in the province’s gospel music scene. Originally launched as a two-day event in Beausejour in the early 1980s, it has grown and evolved into a powerful one-day gathering under the passionate leadership of Peter Reimer, President and Director of the Manitoba Gospel Music Association.

The Jamboree will run from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a lineup featuring a rich mix of country gospel, Southern gospel, and bluegrass styles. Audiences can expect stirring performances from both seasoned local groups and special guests, including the Lumber River Quartet from Lumberton, North Carolina. Some of the other groups booked to perform are Isaiah 6, 4Given Quartet, Neil James, The Wollman Family, and Southern Sound. Tickets are just $20 for the entire day. Only $15 for a BBQ chicken meal. Parking is available on site, and nearby campgrounds offer accommodation options for those traveling in.

“This is more than just music,” says Reimer. “It’s a time to come together, be uplifted, and walk away with a renewed sense of hope.”

Since taking the reins three years ago, Reimer has guided the Manitoba Gospel Jamboree and its parent association into a period of

growth. What was once a single annual event is now part of a broader movement to establish Manitoba as a gospel music hub in Canada.

“We’re working to make Manitoba a key stop on gospel artists’ Canadian tours,” Reimer says. “We’ve expanded to host several concerts year-round, and we’re building something bigger.”

Reimer’s personal commitment runs deep—he also performs with multiple groups, including New Covenant Quartet, Southern Sound Choir, and 4Given Quartet, all based in southeastern Manitoba.

The event is made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers—currently around 20 strong—and a committed board that is looking to expand to accommodate the growing scale of operations.

Looking ahead to 2026, Reimer hopes to bring in major names in the gospel music world, such as the

Gold City Quartet, showing just how ambitious the Jamboree’s future plans are.

But at its heart, the Jamboree remains focused on one message: hope, unity, and encouragement.

“We want people to leave not just entertained, but touched,” says Reimer. “The Jamboree is about creating a space where people feel connected, spiritually uplifted, and surrounded by love.”

Whether you’re a long-time fan of gospel music or simply seeking an inspiring day of community and song, the Manitoba Gospel Jamboree promises something for everyone.

Organizers suggest you bring your favourite lawn chair to improve your comfort.

For more information, you are invited to reach out to Peter Reimer at mgmjamboree@gmail.com or 204204-801-1918.

Jolys Regional Library

Announces

August Lineup of Family-Friendly Events

The Bibliothèque Régionale Jolys Regional Library in St. PierreJolys is inviting families, book lovers, and creatives of all ages to enjoy a month full of engaging activities throughout August 2025.

The month kicks off with an Outside Summer Story Hour on Friday, August 1 at 10 am at the small park behind the cafeteria at Providence University College’s Otterburne campus. Children can enjoy a story, a snack, and a nature-themed craft. Families are encouraged to bring a blanket and soak up the summer atmosphere.

The ever-popular TD Summer Reading Program continues every Tuesday morning at 10 am at the library. Weekly sessions include

themed activities and a chance to win prizes at the “Fish Pond.” Children are reminded to bring their reading logs to track their summer reading progress.

Creative spirits are welcome to join Makers Night; hosted every Tuesday evening from 5:30 to 7:00 pm. Participants can bring ongoing projects or start something new while sharing ideas with fellow creators in a welcoming environment. All skill levels are encouraged to attend.

In partnership with the St. Malo Street Bash, the library will also host a special Story & Movie Night on Friday, August 29 at 5:00 pm at the Centre Jean Desrosiers.

Families can enjoy the animated comedy Marmaduke, with snacks

and drinks available for purchase. Adding a splash of creativity to the month, the library is holding a Library Card Design Contest. Patrons have submitted original artwork, and the public is invited to vote for their favourite design between August 5 and 8. The winning entry will be featured on the library’s new official cards.

The Jolys Regional Library’s regular hours are:

Monday & Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday & Thursday: 9:00 a.m.

– 7:00 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Friday & Sunday: Closed

For more information, visit the library in person or follow its social media channels for updates.

The Nature Conservancy Canada, Weston Family Tall Grass Prairie Interpretive Centre

Photo by Mike Dembek

The Lumber River Quartet from Lumberton, North Carolina will play at the 2025 Manitoba Gospel Jamboree. Submitted photo

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service

Southeast Manitoba Fire Departments Bolster Wildfire Response with New Equipment

Fire departments in the region, including the RM’s of La Broquerie and Reynolds, are better equipped to respond to wildfires thanks to a recent donation from GlobalMedic and Global Fire. The RMs of La Broquerie and Reynolds Fire Departments each received a Wildland firefighting skid unit, which includes a 250-gallon water tank, fire pump, hose, and suction line mounted on an aluminium skid. Designed to fit into the bed of a pickup truck, the unit effectively turns the vehicle into a mobile firefighting tool, significantly enhancing the departments’ flexibility in the field. The donations are part of GlobalMedic’s broader initiative to support emergency response efforts in underfunded areas. In total, 20 fire departments across Manitoba received similar equipment to strengthen wildfire response capacity.

GlobalMedic and Global Fire are volunteer-led organizations committed to improving emergency preparedness by supplying vital firefighting equipment and offering professional training workshops—at no cost to departments.

“This equipment will allow us to deploy resources to support neighbouring communities while still maintaining coverage in our own area,” stated a representative from the Reynolds Fire Department.

Both departments are grateful for the donation and believe it will further expanding the ability of rural departments to respond to wildfires.

With increasingly intense wildfire seasons across Manitoba, these contributions provide essential support to first responders working to protect both people and property in vulnerable areas.

Niverville Student Wins Provincial Burn Awareness Award

Niverville Fire and Emergency Services is proud to congratulate Blake Rideout on winning the Provincial Grade 6 Burn Awareness Award.

Blake’s winning poster will be featured in the 2025 October Fire Safety Booklet, which is distributed to Kindergarten to Grade 4 students across Manitoba. She is the third student from Niverville Middle School to earn this honour in the past five years.

Niverville Fire & Emergency Services contin ues to collaborate with local schools to deliver fire and life safety education, equipping students with vital skills they can share with their families.

Prairie Day Returns to Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve on August 9

By Dan Guetre

Nature enthusiasts and prairie lovers are invited to the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve on Saturday, August 9, 2025, for the annual Prairie Day celebration — a family-friendly event dedicated to showcasing the beauty, biodiversity, and ecological importance of one of Canada’s rarest ecosystems.

Running from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Prairie Day will kick off with guided walks along the Prairie Shore Trail, located approximately 3 kilometres east of Tolstoi on Provincial Road 209. From 10:00 a.m. to noon, participants will explore the rich prairie landscape, learning about the region’s unique species — including native bees, birds, wildflowers, and trees — and see firsthand how prairie management practices help preserve this endangered ecosystem.

This year’s event highlights several species listed under Canada’s Species at Risk Act. Although the endangered Poweshiek Skipperling butterfly may be past its peak season, visitors can expect to see the threatened Riddell’s goldenrod in bloom, among other resilient native flora adapted to the region’s extreme weather patterns.

Afternoon presentations will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Gardenton Park and Museum, beneath the shade of oak trees. The lineup of guest speakers includes Ash Burkowski of Northern Wildscapes Plants+Design, who will share insights on creating native lawns using prairie plants. For those curious about foraging, Laura Reeves of Prairie Shore Botanicals will offer tips on harvesting and preparing wild edibles.

Additionally, Kara Parkinson of the Gerhard Center’s Forest and Nature School will speak about connecting children to the natural world through hands-on environmental education.

Admission is $10 per adult, with free entry for children. All events are rain or shine, and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate footwear, as walking conditions may be wet.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase at Gardenton Park, with volunteers serving hot meals and cold drinks from the kitchen. Please note that only cash is accepted for both admissions and food purchases. Modern washrooms will be available on-site.

Established in 1989, the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve protects some of the largest and most pristine remnants of tall grass prairie left in the province. The Preserve, now nearly 6,000 hectares in size thanks to the efforts of Nature Manitoba, Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation, and the Nature Conservancy of Canada, is home to nearly 1,000 documented species, many of which are rare or have limited distribution.

Prairie Day, now in its 30+ year tradition, offers a rare opportunity to experience this vital habitat at its seasonal peak, with prairie grasses reaching full height and wildflowers in bloom.

For more information, contact Kayla at the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve at 204-792-8094.

The department extended its thanks to the Office of the Fire Commissioner and the Manitoba Firefighters Burn Fund for supporting the award program, and to Niverville Middle School for helping make the burn awareness sessions possible.

Established in 1989, the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve protects some of the largest and most pristine remnants of tall grass prairie left in the province. The Preserve, now nearly 6,000 hectares in size thanks to the efforts of Nature Manitoba, Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation, and the Nature Conservancy of Canada, is home to nearly 1,000 documented species, many of which are rare or have limited distribution.

The RM of Reynolds Fire Department with their installed Wildland firefighting skid. Submitted photos

The RM of La Broquerie Fire Department members check out the new piece of equipment to aid in wild fire fighting.

Niverville Fire and Emergency Services congratulated Blake Rideout on winning the Provincial Grade 6 Burn Awareness Award. Submitted photo

Submitted photo

Carrick Carrick Days - August 9 - August 10. Saturday, August 9, 11

am – Gates open, free admission, 12 noon – Parade, 1 pm

– Horseshoe Tournament Registration, 10 pm Spectacular

CanFire Fireworks and Sunday, August 10, free admission, 10 am – 12 noon Breakfast, 12 noon – Bean Bag Competition, 12 noon – Carrick Got Talent Competition (All are welcome).

Falcon Lake/Whiteshell

Bingo – Wednesdays at 7:30 pm, early bird games at 7 pm at the Whiteshell Community Club 20 301 Pr, Falcon Beach. Contact 204-349-2293.

Gardenton Prairie Day – Saturday, August 9, 10 am – 3:30 pm in the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve. Guided walks about an hour long. Meet at the Prairie Shore Interpretive Trail (6 km west of Gardenton on PR209). Lunch at Gardenton Park, followed by special guest presentations in the afternoon. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit in the shade of the oak trees for the afternoon presentations. Admission: $10 for adults, free for children 12 years and under. Call 204-7928094.

Grande Pointe

Homegrown Harmonies Music in the Park – Friday, August 15, 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the Park (423 Bernat Road). All welcome, free admission. Food available for purchase, bring your own lawn chairs and blankets, lawn games to be played all evening, washrooms onsite. This event brings together, musicians, and music lovers in a celebration of homegrown talent, and the power of music to connect people.

Grunthal

Seniors Walking Program - Join our drop-in walking program on Monday mornings between 9 - 10:30 am at the New Horizon’s Centre. Cost only $2. Call 204-371-9134 or email anitafnk@mymts.net.

Coffee Connections - All adults ages 55+ are welcome to join us at the New Horizon Centre for a time of visiting, while enjoying coffee, tea and refreshments. Join us and bring your friends. There is no cost. Contact Anita Funk 204-371-9134.

Hadashville

Gearhead Show & Shine Family Festival – Saturday, August 23 starting at 9 am, in the Recreation Centre 45030 PTH #11. Enjoy stunning vehicle display, delicious perogy dinner and other food and drinks available for purchase all day, face painting, games and more, vibrant market with local vendors, great music with DJ. All proceeds going towards an AED for the Hadashville Recreation Centre!

Hadashville Clinic Primary Care – Mondays, 9 am – 3:30 pm at the RM of Reynolds Civic Centre, 45030 PTH#11excluding statutory holidays. To schedule an appointment with a provider contact Whitemouth Health Centre at 204-348-2291.

Ile des Chenes

Golden Gains (Adults 55+) -Thursdays, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm at TC Energy Centre

Yoga - Gentle yet invigorating drop-in yoga mornings or evenings for women and men. For all shapes and sizes; no experience needed. Contact Juliette at yogaforyoumanitoba@ outlook.com.

La Broquerie Farm & Community Market – On Saturdays, August 9, 23, and September 6 at 9 am, at the HyLife Centre 22 Arena Rd. Enjoy live music, variety of makers, bakers, growers, and food trucks. Contact Sarah 204-202-1785, coordinator@ labroqueriemarkets.ca.

Forest and Nature School – Coyote Thursdays - 36 Weeks: September 18 to December 11, January 15 to March 26, April 9 to June 25 at Tetrault Park, 9:30 am to 3:30 pm for ages 5.5 to 12. Nature journaling and literacy, microscopes, dip netting, binoculars, magnifying glass, shelter building, knot work, air-dry clay for sculpting, woodworking, , watercolours, weaving, nature games, music movement, sourcing natural materials, useful and edible plants and those which are dangerous, hear the traditional Indigenous stories and teachings of animals and plants. We invite Indigenous Elders, workshop facilitators and knowledge keepers to share teachings of the land, plants and animals. Cost: Tuition $8.30/hr, $49.80 per session, per month $159.28 plus initial deposit $200 or 4 payments of $448.20 or in full $1,792.80. Sibling

ommunity E v E nts

Discount and financial aid available. Share a Seat: Families may choose to share a seat and alternate weeks with another learner. In this case, tuition is reduced by 50%. This pilot program is possible thanks to a grant from the Manitoba Government. All ages and family session TBA. Register at Gerhardcenter.org.

Monthly Lunch - Every third Thursday of the month at 12 noon at the Le Club de L’amitié. Come enjoy a hot, home-made meal! $15 per person.

Drop-in Community Bike Repair Workshop – Tuesdays, 6 – 9 pm at La Bikequerie Inc, 36016 PR 210, and (the old Southeast Vet Clinic) Come; learn how to fix your bike. Bring a friend! We also have used bikes for sale. Contact Jacinthe Wiebe, 204-346-1515 or labikequerie@gmail.com.

Landmark

Yoga – Gentle yet invigorating drop-in yoga mornings or evenings for women and men. For all shapes and sizes; no experience needed. Contact Juliette at yogaforyoumanitoba@ outlook.com.

Coffee/Craft Group – Meet on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 1 -3 pm at Kinsman Centre. Drop in to say hello. Contact Laurie@rmtache.ca for more details.

Lorette

Bibliothèque Tache Library August Activities - Princesse Blanche-Neige Saturday, August 9, 11 am; Lego Day, Thursday, August 14, 1 pm; Wednesday, Paint Day: August 20, 1 pm; and Nature, Wildlife and Wellness (P.W.R.C): Wednesday, August 27, 11 am. Colouring Draw is due Thursday, August 28.

Operation: Spy Science Camp – Monday to Friday, August 11-15, 9 am - 4 pm at the Community Centre by Mad Science. $225 per child (ages 5-11). From decoding messages to metal detectors and night vision, children will have the opportunity to check out spy equipment and even create their own edible messages! They will use the secret code breaker to communicate in code like real spies! To register, email Alison Fox at Alison@rmtache.ca. Limited space available.

The Métis Beading Circle - Every Tuesday at 6 – 8:30 pm at Bibliothèque Taché Library 1082 Dawson Road.

A. A. Group - Meets every Monday at 7:30 pm at the Seine River Church, 1456 Dawson Trail. An open meeting for alcoholics and/or anyone who is having problems related with or to alcohol (Co-Dependents). It’s all free. No dues or obligations. Completely confidential and anonymous. No full names required - none should be given.

Public Skating – Sundays at the Community Complex from 11 am - Noon. Sharpen up those skates and we will see you there!

Monthly foot clinics - Tache Senior Services hosts foot clinics in Lorette and Landmark. Contact laurie@rmtache.ca for more information.

Yoga – Gentle yet invigorating drop-in yoga mornings or evenings for women and men. For all shapes and sizes; no experience needed. Contact Juliette at yogaforyoumanitoba@ outlook.com.

Welcome New Residents - Welcome to the LUD of Lorette.

Have you purchased a home, townhome, duplex, or condo in the LUD of Lorette, in the last year? The Welcome Basket Committee has a free basket of gift certificates, coupons, gifts, and information from local businesses and organizations in the LUD of Lorette. No strings attached. To arrange a visit please e-mail lorettewelcomebasket@gmail.com.

Mitchell

Toast & Coffee – On Tuesdays, drop-in for toast and coffee for $2 and a menu is available with prices according to what you order at the Mitchell and Area Community Centre, 130 Ash St. Contact Jane Penner 204-346-2469, jpenner@jantre.com.

Mitchell Card & Board Games Club – Every 2nd and 4th

Thursday, 6:30 – 9 pm until March 13. Join us at the Community Centre for an evening packed with exciting games Scrabble, Yahtzee, Rummoli, Euchre, Crib, Cross Crib, Swipe, and Chess. Coffee provided.

Drop-in fee: $2. Open to all ages. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Otterburne Adventure Pop-Up Party Theme – Tuesday, August 12, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm at the Curling Club for ages 5 – 13.Cost $20. Space limited. Contact info@ratriverrecreation.com, 204712-7773.

Special Guest Pop-Up Party Theme – Tuesday, August 19, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm at the Curling Club for ages 5 – 13. Cost $20. Space limited. Contact info@ratriverrecreation. com, 204-712-7773.

Hawaiian Pop-Up Party Theme – Tuesday, August 26, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm at the Curling Club for ages 5 – 13.Cost $20. Space limited. Contact info@ratriverrecreation.com, 204712-7773.

Piney

Floor Curling, Pickle Ball & Archery – On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at the Community Centre.

Services to Seniors - Free Shuttle for residents of the RM of Piney the first Friday of each month. Call to book a ride and do your banking and shopping locally or book your doctor’s appointment and we will get you to your appointment. Call 204-425-3701.

Volunteer Drivers Needed – we are looking for volunteer drivers who can help seniors to appointments. If you have a driver’s license and clean abstract we would love to hear from you. Contact Rachel Lachnit resource coordinator 204437-2604.

Richer

Summer Markets – Saturday August 30 from 10 am - 2 pm at the Dawson Trail Museum, 67 Dawson Road E. Live music, museum tours, gift shop, bouncy castle, hot lunch, and of course, dozens of local artists and vendors!

Active 55+ at the Dawson Trail Park - Every Tuesday until September 2 from 10 am - 1 pm. Free! Pickleball, badminton, cornhole, ladder ball and free yoga and strength training session. Mid-activity snack of fresh fruit and veggies provided.

Chase the Ace – On Saturdays, at the Richer Inn. Fundraiser for the Richer Community Club! Tickets sold only between 5 to 7:45 pm and draw is at 8:15 pm. Tickets $1 each.

Stuartburn Forest and Nature School – Skipperlings Tuesdays - 35 Weeks: September 16 to December 9, January 13 to March 24, April 7 to June 23 at Weston Family Tallgrass Prairie Interpretive Centre, 10 am to 3 pm for ages 5.5 to 12. Nature journaling and literacy, microscopes, dip netting, binoculars, magnifying glass, shelter building, knot work, air-dry clay for sculpting, woodworking, , watercolours, weaving, nature games, music movement, sourcing natural materials, useful and edible plants and those which are dangerous, hear the traditional Indigenous stories and teachings of animals and plants. We invite Indigenous Elders, workshop facilitators and knowledge keepers to share teachings of the land, plants and animals. Cost: Tuition 10 Monthly Payments of $120.25, with $250 initial payment, or 4 payments $362.63, or full payment $1,450.50. Sibling Discount and financial aid available. Share a Seat: Families may choose to share a seat and alternate weeks with another learner. In this case, tuition is reduced by 50%. This pilot program is possible thanks to a grant from the Manitoba Government. All ages and family session TBA. Register at Gerhardcenter.org.

South Junction

Southeast Farmer’s Market - Fridays, until August 29 from 10 am to 2 pm at the Pine Grove Seniors Centre. Variety of vendors, canteen, 50/50 draw. New vendors welcome. For information contact Jen @ 204-423-2223 or Shawny at 204-437-2600.

Exercise for Fun and Health – Mondays and Thursdays, at 9:30 am the Pine Grove Senior Club. Come join us, chair Yoga, walk/run on the treadmills, use the bikes or the weights. Contact Patty 204-437-2343.

Meet Your Neighbours Coffee Group - Mondays, at 1 pm, Pine Grove Seniors Club, Highway 12 and Prevost St. Sprague Sprague River Boat Race - Friday, August 8, 7 - 8 pm. Boats are $5 or 3 for $10. Boats are numbered then dropped from the bridge on Morden Sprague Rd. and netted by the bridge on PR 308. All are wel-

come to come and cheer on their boat, but winners need not be present to win. Awards will be announced and presented at Sprague Fest at 4 pm. Parents, Watch Your Kids if they choose to go down by the river! The Sprague Community Centre splits proceeds in half with and winners as follows: 1st place- 25% of the pot, 2nd place-15% of the pot, 3rd place- 10% of the pot. Come out and support our community!

Sprague Fest and Show & Shine Car Show - Saturday, August 9. Pancake breakfast (by donation) 8 – 10 am, parade 10:30 am, car show 11 am – 4 pm, Show N Shine (registration $10), wood carving demo 1 – 2 pm, silent auction, concession stand, beer gardens, pickleball, cornhole, bingo and social with music from Good N Dusty (tickets at the door only $10). Car show registration ($10) email spraguefest.ss@ gmail.com.

CRA In-person Support Clinic & Service Canada - First Tuesday of the Month from 10 am – 3 pm at the East Borderland Primary Health Care Centre.

Meet Your Neighbours Coffee Groups - Thursdays, at 1 pm at the Evergreens Senior Club at the Hall by railroad tracks.

Kids Club – Wednesdays from 7 – 9 pm at the Community Fellowship Church. For all children ages 5 and up.

Sprague Service to Seniors Seeks Volunteers - Seeking individuals to assist and to provide a few services to seniors within our community such as snow removal, transportation for a fee, volunteers in the congregate Meals Programs as well as home cleaning services to seniors for a fee. A criminal record check is required for cleaning services and transportation. Email lgdseniors@gmail.com with your rates and for information, or call 204-437-2604.

St. Adolphe

A Makers Market – Sunday, August 10, 10 am – 3 pm at the municipal office, 352 Main Street St. Enjoy lots of vendors, food trucks, live music and games for kids!

Outdoor Movie Night - August 28, movie starts at sunset at the River Park (541 Taché Ave). All welcome, free admission. Snacks available for purchase, bring your own lawn chairs and blankets, lawn games to be played before the movie, washrooms onsite.

A Makers Market & Family Fun Day - Sunday, September 14, 10 am – 5 pm. At the River Park. Food trucks and washrooms on site. No admission cost.

Pickleball - Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the School Gymnasium. Register at ritchot.com/p/program-registration.

Yoga – Gentle yet invigorating drop-in yoga mornings or evenings for women and men. For all shapes and sizes; no experience needed. Contact Juliette at yogaforyoumanitoba@ outlook.com.

St. Malo

Adventure Pop-Up Party Theme – Thursday, August 14, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm at the Curling Club for ages 5 – 13. Cost $20. Space limited. Contact info@ratriverrecreation.com, 204-712-7773.

Hawaiian Pop-Up Party Theme – Thursday, August 21, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm at the Curling Club for ages 5 – 13. Cost $20. Space limited. Contact info@ratriverrecreation.com, 204-712-7773.

Special Guest Pop-Up Party Theme – Thursday, August 28, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm at the Curling Club for ages 5 – 13. Cost $20. Space limited. Contact info@ratriverrecreation. com, 204-712-7773.

Street Bash – Friday, August 29 – Sunday, August 31! Lots of activities planned for kids and adults. Live music, parade, delicious food trucks, and community fun.

Farmers Market - Every Saturday, until August 30 at 9:30 am -1 pm at new location just outside the St. Malo Hotel. Free entry. Vendors can email stmalojrwarriors@gmail.com.

St. Pierre-Jolys Pickleball - 6 - 9 pm at Réal Bédard Gymnasium.

Community Garden - Plots available at the St. Pierre Parish old fair grounds on Hwy 205. $50 annually for a plot. Register online at ratriverrecreation.ca.

The Makers - Join us every Tuesday evening at the Bibliothèque Régionale Jolys Regional Library for creative fun and hands-on projects. Let your imagination run wild!

3234 Manitoba Horse Cadets – Join us for fun and adventure every Thursday, September to June, 6:30 – 9 pm at the Community Hall. For ages 12 – 18. Cost is Free. Meet new friends, fun, adventures, leadership, citizenship, community service, drill band, orienteering, and more. Contact Captain Kim Murphy, Kim.Murphy@cadets.gc.ca, facebook. com/3234Manitobahorsecadets.

Ste. Agathe

Pickleball - Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the School Gymnasium. Participants under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Register at ritchot.com/p/program-registration.

Ste. Anne

Summer Markets - Wednesdays August 20 and September 10 from 3 -7 pm at 183 Centrale Ave. Perk coffee, mini donut truck, hotdogs, burgers and popcorn! Dozens of makers, bakers growers and specialty retailers.

Soup and Sandwich (includes a dessert and coffee) - Second Wednesday of the month from 11 am - 1 pm at Club Jovial. All are welcome! $10 per person. For more info call 204-8076886 or 204-422-8766.

Meat Draw - Every Saturday from 1 – 4 pm at the Ste Anne Hotel. Draws every 1/2 hr. Must be in attendance to win. All proceeds go to the Ste Anne Lions Club.

Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Tache - Every Monday, from 6 - 7:30 pm at the Community Centre.

Steinbach

Frozen Fun at Days Inn! - Wednesday, August 28, 2 – 4 pm at Days Inn by Wyndham 75 PTH 12 N. Open to everyone! Celebrate summer with a free Frozen-themed afternoon featuring photo ops with Anna & Elsa, free slushies, food trucks on site, and 15% off room nights (valid August 28 only). For more details, visit Days Inn Steinbach on Facebook or Instagram.

Chase the Ace Fundraiser - Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue – On Mondays at Smitty’s Restaurant. Tickets on sale 6:30 – 8:30 pm, draw at 8:45 pm. 2 tickets for $5. Winning ticket receives 10% of nightly ticket sales or 50% if the Ace is drawn. Have fun while supporting animals and maybe walk away with some cash!

Fung Loy Kok Tai Chi - Thursdays at 10 am at the United Church, Christian Ed building, 541 Main St. Develop a mind that is dynamic yet clear and calm and a spirit that is resilient yet light and peaceful. Tai Chi reduces stress, builds strength, flexibility and balance. Start anytime. Contact Veronica Klassen 204-326-1713, vronklas@gmail.com.

Steinbach Sizzlers 4-H Club - Contact Tatiana Tuttosi loonlover06@gmail.com.meetings at Steinbach United Church, CE Building, 541 Main St.

Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Group - Thursdays, at 1 pm. Registration required. Contact Maggie@steinbachfrc.ca, 204-346-0413.

Royal Canadian Legion Steinbach Branch - Meets first Tuesday of the month via Zoom at 7:30 pm; Ladies Auxiliary meets first Monday of each month, 7:30 pm. Steinbach Legion, 227 Main St – Unit 5. Email steinbach190rcl@outlook.com.

Al-Anon – Mondays at 7:30 pm Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre back door, downstairs. Contact steinbachafg@gmail.com.

Creative Writers Club - Second Wednesday every month at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Library, 255 Elmdale St. This is not a class but rather a writing share group where we hope to foster and encourage our participants’ love of writing. Feel free to bring 5 pages of writing (single sided, double spaced) to share with the group. Our evening will begin with an ice breaker and then move into share time. Coffee and tea will be served. Contact Madison Redekopp email mredekopp@jakeepplibrary.com.

Steinbach Professional Development Toastmasters Club – On Wednesdays at 12 - 1 pm, Eastman Education Centre, 385 Loewen Blvd. Join us in person or by zoom. All guests are welcome! Contact Mark Hiebert 204-371-5197, email mhiebert@barkmanconcrete.com.

v E nts

Knit-Wits Fibre Craft Club- First Tuesdays of the month at 6 – 8 pm, Jake Epp Library, 255 Elmdale St. Do you enjoy knitting, crocheting, cross stitching and other types of fibre crafting? Join other adults for informal knitting, crochet, etc. circle. All skill levels welcome. Please bring your own project/supplies.

Craft Night - Wednesdays at 7 pm, Jake Epp Library, 255 Elmdale St. Ages 16 years and up join us for a free event, with coffee and crafting. Our craft for the evening will be a beaded spring wreath. There is limited space available. To sign up, email mredekopp@jakeepplibrary.com.

Book Club - Meets on the third Wednesday of each month from 7 - 8:30 pm at Jake Epp Library, 255 Elmdale St. Books are available at the circ desk as well as on our Libby App (free with your library card). Please sign up by email mredekopp@ jakeepplibrary.com. Limited space available.

Tolstoi

Adventures with Nature Norm – Learning From Nature on Saturday, August 30, departure at 10 am – 12 pm. Free. For more information, contact Norm Gregoire at info@sharedlegacymb.ca or 204-408-6166! You will be provided a pair of binoculars to use and a set of walking sticks during the event at the Prairie Shore Interpretive Trail, Weston Family Tall Grass Prairie Interpretive Centre, (1.5 km east of Stuartburn, turn left on Rd 32E for 1.5 km, turn right on Rd 10N) or (3 km east of Tolstoi on PR 209). For more information or to register, please contact info@sharedlegacymb.ca or Norm at 204-408-6166 or info@sharedlegacymb.ca. See you there.

Chase the Ace Fundraiser - Tolstoi Heritage Centre invites you to every Friday at Elsie’s Hotel. Tickets on sale from 5 - 7:45 pm. Details posted at Elsie’s Hotel and at tolstoiheritage.ca.

Vassar

Free Summer Camp for Children – Weekdays, until Friday, August 15, 12 noon - 3 pm for ages 5-13. At the Pool during swimming lessons. Children will be involved in various crafts and games, a snack is also provided. Children are required to bring their own sunscreen and bug spray. Contact adriane_culleton@hotmail. com.

Ball Tournament - Friday, August 15 - Sunday, August 17.

Slo-Pitch Saturday, Fastball Sunday. $300 per team. Ball team registration contact Jeremy at culleyjj@gmail.com or 204437-3168. Friday night dance featuring Good n Dusty, pool and shower open, Saturday Open Air Dance featuring Universal Music, cornhole tournament and bingo, silent auction, canteen, camping available. Baseball registrations contact Jeremy Culleton at culleyjj@gmail.com or 204-437-3168.

RM of Piney Forest Tours – Saturday, August 16, 1 - 4 pm -

Becoming Fire Smart. And Friday, September 26, 1 – 3:30 pm - Goods from the Woods. All participants are to meet at the RM office in Vassar (6092 Boundary St.) Transportation will be provided from the RM office to and from each touring site. For Ages 12 & Up (only 15 spots available)

Please call 204-437-2284 or email: candace@rmofpiney. mb.ca. To participate, please RSVP by the prior Monday of each tour. This is a Free Event.

Vita Pancake Breakfast – Sunday, August 31, 10 am - 2 pm at the Friendship Centre. Gather your family and friends for a morning out – everyone is welcome. Adults $7, Children 6-10 years $4, Preschoolers free.

Shevchenko School Family Room – On Thursdays, from 1 – 3

pm at the school. Families with children 0-5 years old are welcome to join. A free snack is provided. Children will explore and participate in various activities that will strengthen their social skills and help promote independence. This is a free program with no registration required, just sign in at the school office upon arrival. Contact Melanie Mattson 204-425-3535, email MattsonM@blsd.ca.

Vita 4-H - Looking for volunteers for the 4-H program that provides members with the resources and activities to build self-confidence, communication, and leadership skills while learning about the topic of their choice. Do you have a skill we can teach members? Please reach out to vita4h@hotmail.com.

Services to Seniors Steinbach Shuttle - Subsidized cost $15/person. Minimum of 8 participants required for the trip to take place. Departure from Shady Oaks in Vita at 9:30 am. Call 204-425-3701 to book a seat.

Woodridge

Youth Night - The 1st, 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 7 - 9 pm at the Community Hall. For ages 13 – 17. Free snacks and drinks in a fun, safe place for youth to build community! Sports include basketball, soccer, air hockey, floor hockey, foosball, ping pong and pickleball. Also available puzzles, board games, and crafts. Adult supervision provided.

Moms & Tots – On Thursdays, 10 am – 12 pm at the Community Hall. Weekly get together. Bring your little ones for snacks, play, crafts and socializing.

Wellness Wednesdays – On Wednesdays, 1 – 4 pm at the Community Club. Join us for free pool, cribbage, darts, pickleball, board games, cards, ping-pong and puzzles. Coffee, tea, and pop $2, water $1 or bring your own beverage.

The Four Little Oinkers

Welcome everyone to a new month and a new edition of My Spinning World. If you read last month’s column you’ll remember that it was a tale of how I had to wrestle a pig after it had escaped from its new home. I am thankful to report that the little piggy is very happy where he is now, all safe and sound he hangs out with his three buddies where they get plenty of food to eat, water to drink, shade and shelter to lounge around in. They even a small tub of water to soak in and mud pits to roll around in

and get all dirty.

One thing that I have found is that these pigs are becoming more and more comfortable around us. I know it is because we spend time with them and give them the space they need so that they don’t feel crowded by us. We like to let them come to us on their own terms as they feel ready to. I am pretty impressed that my daughter and youngest son like to spend so much time with them. My daughter will sit in the pen on an old tractor tire and the pigs will come over to see what she is up to. My youngest son has taken to playing a game with the pigs where he will start to run around the pen, weaving through the brush with the pigs in hot pursuit of him.

As they sprint after him, occasionally one piglet with fall behind and stop to look around in an effort to find my son. As my son rounds the pen and approaches the piglet, it will either dart in another direction or it will join up with its buddies and continue the chase.

The piglet that we named Dottie,

due to her dotted colouring, is the most sociable piglet that I’ve ever known. She has warmed up to us so much so, that we can be walking in the pen and she’ll be right there with us, her snout working overtime to figure out what you are doing and how she can help. Spoiler alert, she doesn’t really help but please don’t tell her that, she likes to feel like she’s our big, little helper.

Now, the piglet that had managed to get through the fence, well he earned the name of Naughty. He’s not as loving as Dottie but we can pet him too when he’s distracted during feed time. The other two pigs don’t have names yet, at least not officially, but my wife is trying to figure some names out for them. Perhaps later this month they will have names.

All in all, so far we are having a good time raising these four little oinkers. It is quite a cute sight to see their little tails wagging away as they eat, to hear their little oinks as they play with our kids and to see them get all excited when they get treats from the garden.

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

When Life is Perfect

Have you ever made a mistake? Or maybe the question should be, “How many mistakes have you made?” For a human to say they haven’t made a mistake in life shows them to be either self-deceived or a liar. Some of us jokingly say we are perfect, but we know it’s not true. My mother, standing in front of a mirror and preparing to go to town, would turn away from the mirror and say, “You can’t improve upon perfection.” It bothers us when we make mistakes and even though we try over and over again, we fall short of our goal of perfection. But there is one Person who is perfect. His name is the Almighty God of heaven. Psalm 18:30 says “As for God, his way is perfect.”

Euteronomy 32:4 says, “his work is perfect.” God has never made a mistake. Because He is eternal and allknowing, He sees everything perfectly (past, present and future).

When God made the universe, He made it perfect. Genesis 1:31 says “And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good.” Then sin entered and has been causing trouble ever since Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Sin affects all areas of God’s Creation, including us.

But God knew sin would come and He had a plan to solve our sin problem. His plan involved sending His perfect Son Jesus Christ (the second part of the Godhead) to this earth. He lived a sinless perfect life as God in the flesh. Then He was crucified and allowed His blood to be shed for the sin of the whole world. When a person realizes sin in their lives and the result of that sin (separation from God forever) and they put their sin under the blood of Christ; God forgives their sin and gives them new life in Christ (eternal life). This new life through Christ makes us “perfect in Christ Jesus” (Colossians 1:28). Now when God looks at the new Christian, He sees him as perfect, just as His Son is perfect. That means all of our sins are now washed away (past, present and future).

Positionally we are made perfect before a holy God.

But what about our everyday practical life? The Christian can never live his life without sin (mistakes), but our desire ought to be to make our practical Christian living line up as close as possible with our position in Christ (perfect). We can only do this with God’s help. Every Christian has the Spirit of God in him to enable him to live our lives to please God.

One definition of “perfect” is to be everything God wants you to be at this time. As we trust God and let Him lead in our daily living, He will perfect us and make us into vessels of honour in His service.

What is your desire today? You can either keep living life the way you are or give God the controls of your life and let Him make your life perfect. The choice is yours!

SAC’s Fall Classes with Expanded Lineup Features Cultural Workshops, Returning Favourites,

The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) has officially opened registration for its 2025 Fall Classes, inviting community members of all ages to take part in another season of high-quality creative programming.

Building on last year’s momentum—which saw a surge in participation and multiple sold-out classes— SAC is expanding its offerings to meet the community’s growing appetite for arts, culture, and recreation.

“The growth in participation in classes and the consecutive learning in classes were highlights of the year,” said Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs. “We know that

and Free After-school Programs

there is an increasing demand for arts, culture, and recreation in our community, and we’re excited to offer more great opportunities this year. We saw hundreds of participants in our classes last year, and we had an outstanding response to the increase in programming, receiving positive and supportive feedback from those who participated.”

This fall, SAC continues to offer its flagship programs, including the Arts4Tots Preschool Program and the Backyard Theatre Company. Also returning are the Steinbach Children’s and Youth Chorus, beginner dance classes in partnership with BOSS Dance Academy, and

the ever-popular culinary arts classes.

Visual arts remain a cornerstone of SAC programming, with options ranging from pottery and painting to drawing and mixed media, designed to accommodate all ages and experience levels.

One of the highlights of the upcoming season is the free After School Arts Program, open to students in Grades 5 to 12. The program will offer sessions in improv, culinary arts, guitar, fiddle, pottery, and visual arts.

SAC is also deepening its focus on cultural education by expanding its cultural and heritage workshops, including Métis Finger Weaving, Métis Driftwood Windchime

Making, Filipino Parol Making, Paper Cutting Art, and more—introducing new traditions and stories to the broader community.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated group of instructors, including both returning veterans and new faces, continue to drive SAC’s mission of building community through the arts. Their enthusiasm and skill are a central part of what makes the Steinbach Arts Council’s programming impactful.

Community members are encouraged to view the updated class list and register early to secure their spot. Registration is available online at SteinbachArts.ca or by calling 204-346-1077.

New “Wishes for Hope” Program to Grant Wishes for Children with Cancer in Southeast Manitoba

By Dan Guetre

Southeast Cancer Support Services (SCSS) has launched a heartwarming new initiative aimed at brightening the lives of local children diagnosed with cancer. The Wishes for Hope program is now officially underway, offering children aged 3 to 17 the chance to have a special wish fulfilled as they face the difficult realities of an active cancer diagnosis.

Designed to deliver moments of joy, comfort, and encouragement, Wishes for Hope will grant personalized wishes tailored to each child’s unique interests and needs. From cherished experiences and treasured toys to home makeovers and helpful medical equipment, the program seeks to provide more than just a distraction—it offers a meaningful boost during a challenging time.

“Wishes for Hope is about creating joyful, hope-filled moments for children and

their families as they navigate the challenges of cancer,” said Cindi Rempel-Patrick, Executive Director of SCSS.

“These wishes are more than a treat—they’re a source of healing, encouragement, and strength.”

The program welcomes referrals from anyone in the community, provided they have the consent of the child’s family. Each wish will be reviewed individually and granted based on available funding, eligibility, and community support.

The launch of the program was made possible thanks to the vision and initiative of local business owner Dr. Ben Townsend of Dynamic Chiropractic and Sports Therapy Centre. Founding sponsorship was also provided by Dynamic Chiropractic and Loewen Body Shop, with additional support from Rob Friesen of Re/Max Performance Realty and Southeast Travel.

“It was so unique to have a business owner—Ben

Townsend—initiate this program!” said Rempel-Patrick.

“He contacted me and asked to make a donation to offer a specific program to children in our region exclusively, and would SCSS want to partner with him on that? Then he said he made a few calls to his colleagues and they stepped up to donate as well—and not just a one-time donation, but they made a three-year commitment to ensure this program would be sustainable.”

“This project is now a reality and will make a positive difference in the lives of many families facing a difficult cancer journey,” Rempel-Patrick added.

She noted that the level of engagement and generosity from the business community has been remarkable.

“It shows the enormous generosity and caring of our community, and to have our business owners make the effort to initiate a new program, and provide the resources to implement it, was a huge

statement of their integrity and support,” she said. “Not only did they bring in more donors, but they will also have the opportunity to review the nominations with our board and staff, so a real ‘hands-on’ approach is evolving here— they have a passion, and they partner with SCSS to make it reality. Many young children with cancer will find joy in the wishes that will be granted to them in southeastern Manitoba!”

Community members are encouraged to get involved.

Donations to the program go directly toward fulfilling wishes and providing meaningful support to local families.

For more information, to make a referral, or to donate, visit secancersupport.ca or call 204-846-4673.

From L to R : Cindi Rempel Patrick, Executive Director; Deborah Schroeder, Southeast Travel, Jesse Loewen, Loewen Auto Body; Dr. Ben Townsend, Dynamic Chiropractic and Sports Therapy (who initiated the program and found fellow donors) and Rob Friesen, Re/Max Performance Realty. Submitted photo

Dawson Trail Dispatch August 2025

Pat Porter Active Living Centre

At the Pat Porter Active Living Centre (PPALC), you’re not just another face in the crowd; you are family! We are all about putting others first, whether it’s through our fun events, tasty meal drop-offs, transportation, community buzz, fitness sessions, or daily shenanigans. Age is just a number here - even the young at heart are welcome to swing by for a cup of joe with us. Visit our website to learn more patporteralc.com.

All Programs and Events:

The majority of our programs is $2 for members and $4 for non-members. Due to rising food costs Meal Programs are now $9. Fitness Programs: Please check daily Sign-Up for updated hours. These programs now require sign-up in advance on our website. If you need assistance, please call the Centre and we will assist you. You can find us at 20-20 Brandt St. with County Meat and Deli for a BBQ! 100% of the proceeds go to PPALC.

Special Events:

PPALC’s Annual Golf Tournament - Steinbach Fly-In Golf Course, Tuesday, August 26. Shotgun start at 9 am - Registration starts at 7:30am. 50/50, prizes and more! $130/person -$60 tax receipt: Price includes golf and lunch at the Santa Lucia Pizza after. We wish we could say it was only because we love to golf. We do! The uncomfortable reality is that we use this tourney to pay our property tax worth $16,000!!! (Unfortunately, our fundraising coordinator only had about $23 in her wallet, and the Executive Director has not

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

won the lottery.) This is a large sum of money, and we cannot do this without the financial support of our community. Register online today via the Centre: 204320-4600

PPALC’s 1st Night Market

- Friday, August 29, at 4 – 9 pm, in partnership with Eastman Immigrant Services. Immigrant Services for our first ever Community Event to be held outdoors (weather permitting). There will also be a night market. If you are interested, please contact Carla at 204-3204600 or programs@patporteralc.com. Vendor spots are $30.

Free Grandparents Day Ice Cream & Outdoor GamesMonday, August 25, at 1:30 pm. To sign up call 204-3204600.

Free Healthy Eating Workshops by Southern Health

Dieticians - Wednesday, August 6, 9:30 am – 12 pm and Wednesday, August 13, 9:30 am – 12 pm.

Specific Day Programs:

Fun BINGO: Thursdays, August 7 and 28, 10 am -12 pm.

Weekly Programs:

Darts, Shuffleboard - Mondays and Wednesdays at 9 am – 12 pm.

Cornhole - Monday to Friday at 10:30 am – 12 pm.

Coffee Corner - Monday to Friday starting at 9:30 am.

Cards & Games - Monday to Friday at 1 – 4 pm.

Fitness Programs:

Walking - Monday to Friday at 8:30 - 8:50 am, Tuesday and Thursday at 12 – 1 pm.

Circuit Training - Mondays at 10:15 – 11 am.

Fitness Drumming – Tuesdays at 1 – 2 pm.

PACE-(People with Arthritis Can Exercise) - Wednes-

days at 1 - 1:45 pm.

Floor Curling - Wednesdays at 1:30 - 3:30 pm.

Yoga - Fridays at 9 – 10 am.

Pickleball Sessions: Registration required at patporteralc.com Times are subject to change. Please check Daily Sign Up for updated hours.

Family Pickleball - Rent a court for an hour. This session is created for parents and grandparents to teach their kids their favourite sport.

Beginner Pickleball - Perfect for players new to the sport.

Advanced Beginner Pickleball - Your Pickleball skills are still growing.

Intermediate PickleballOur most popular session for those who understand the rules and love to challenge their game.

Advanced IntermediateYou have a competitive understanding of the game. Advanced Pickleball - Is your goal to prove that you are the best pickleball player in Steinbach? This is the perfect spot for you. You will need to have a competitive understanding.

Badminton: Registration required at patporteralc.com. Please check Sign Up for updated hours. Bring your friends and your rackets for a round of badminton! Nets and birdies are provided. We are accepting donations of extra rackets as well.

Rentals:

We have rooms of a variety of sizes and prices. For pricing and room, availability visit our website patporteralc.com, email rentals@patporteralc.com or call 204320-4600.

Meal Programs: There are two Meals on

Wheels programs based out of Steinbach and Grunthal that provide warm, healthy delicious meals for $9. Meals can be delivered directly to your door (residents of Steinbach & Grunthal only) or picked up. Each meal includes soup/salad, main dish, sides and dessert.

Please call 204-320-4600 with any questions or to order a meal. To receive or cancel a same day meal, you must call before 9 am. Steinbach Accessible Transit:

Need a ride to an appointment or other errand? Steinbach ACCESSible transit can get you there! This service is available only to residents of Steinbach. Please visit our website for a full price list. Services are available every day but appointments must be booked in advance to ensure availability Monday to Friday from 9 am – 5 pm. To book a ride, call 204326-4055. If your call is not answered, leave a message with the answering service. Community Resources: We have several resources that come out PPALC- all require a 24-hour notice. Please contact our Community Resource Coordinator if you have any questions. Our two most popular are the Equipment Loan Program which provides someone with a wheelchair, walker or cane with the referral from a health care professional.

And our Volunteer Driver Program which takes residents to appointments or errands. The transportation program has a fee and is dependent on volunteer availability.

Ritchot Senior Services

Will be closed for summer holidays August 18 – September 1. Summer Fun - Thursday, August 14, 10 am – 1 pm at Ritchot Senior Services, 457 Main St., St. Adolphe join us for a day of fun, food, and friends! Your favourite outdoor games ready to go—plus a few exciting new ones to try. After some friendly competition and laughter, enjoy a BBQ lunch on us. To add to the fun a 50-50 will be available. Free event but registration required.

Outdoor Connections – Fridays, August 8 and 15 at 10 am. Summer is here and it’s time to head outdoors and soak it all in! As the temperatures heat up, we will find our way into the Friendship Trail

near the sanctuary to explore. But feel to let us know if the full walk might be too much. We would be happy to suggest a convenient meet-up spot that’s not so far along. Come connect with nature, friends, and your playful spirit! Register today - adventure awaits!

Foot Care Clinics - By appointment only. For more information, please contact Janice at 204-883-2880.

Upcoming clinic dates: Ste Agathe – Wednesday, August 27.

St. Adolphe – Tuesday, August 5, Wednesday, August 6, Thursday, August 7. Ile des Chenes – Tuesday, August 19 and Wednesday, August 20. Chef in the House –We’re ex-

cited to continue our partnership with Chef in the House to bring you homemade soups and heat-and-eat meals, crafted with care in Beausejour and delivered right to Ritchot Senior Services for easy pickup!

Sometimes you just don’t feel like cooking, it’s so nice to have a meal ready for you in the freezer.

How it Works: Browse the tasty menu of fresh soups and meals at chefinthehousesoups. ca. Call to place and pay for your order 204- 612-2433 or email chefinthehousesoups@ gmail.com and please mention you are with Ritchot Senior Services. Prefer to pay by cash or cheque? Order forms are available with Janice at

Under the Guidance of God

Proverbs 11:14... For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers (NIV)

Proverbs 15:22... Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. (NIV)

Psalm 119:105...Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. (NIV)

Can I train myself to follow a reasonable thought-out course of actions to resolve complex decisions regarding my Christian Walk? Or do I need to contact folks whose intellectual powers are far greater than mine… folks who search the Scriptures for deeper understanding do just that.

The Bible teaches that spiritual guidance comes from God. The Holy Spirit reveals the will of God to our heart so that we can understand what it is God wants us to know and apply it in our daily walk with Him. Confirmation of the will of God is given to us as we study Scripture. It also protects us from the sound bits out in the inhospitable surroundings. From those who want to blame God, saying that they interpret the Bible to do just that. However, we know better. The Holy Spirit’s guidance keeps us from making well-known allegations.

As you and I study and read the Bible, the Holy Spirit will impress – plant a thought in our heart and mind – an impression from the very Scripture verses we are reading regarding what is troubling our Christian struggles. Amazing how the Holy Spirit and the word of God harmonises the very Scripture we are studying.

However, there are times God will use situations – surroundings – events to remove some of that tricky stuff; like letting the Bible fall open and “declare this is what I am talking about,” I must be careful, certain issues can turn out rather different at the conclusion to what originally my mind was conceiving as the right course of action.

If we would submit ourselves to the guidance of God, then we must build our life on the word of God. We should read it, study it, and meditate on it. We ought to apply it to our life by discerning the moral principles we are called to live by.

our office. You’ll be notified when your meals are ready for pick-up.

Place your order prior to Friday, August 15 and your meals will be ready for pick up Tuesday, August 19. Save the Date! - Thursday, September 25 Ritchot Senior Services is once again partnering with the Comité Culturel of St. Adolphe to bring you our 6th annual bilingual live music event — a full day of music, delicious food, and time with friends! This year, we’re moving the fun indoors to the Howden Community Centre, 1078 Red River Drive Stay tuned for more details, including when tickets will be available for purchase — you won’t want to miss it!

Are we careful, watchful, and cautious of what people see and hear when we are in our unguarded, casual, and careless moments? How important is it? Well, do I / we want to unearth, bring to the surface something what it is I want to expose. It is at this time that I need to check – contact people I know that have an open right understanding mind regarding Scripture, also an unwavering relationship with God.

When we as Christians train our mind and heart on God’s Word – He will lead us. God will make it possible for us to make sound decision based on what Scripture teaches – led by the Holy Spirit. We will be guided on principles and Spirit, plus wisdom anchored by the Word of God – the Holy Bible.

God will lead His people as we give ourselves to understand His Word and be open to the Holy Spirit. Base our choices on principles and spiritual wisdom grounded in the Word of God... the Bible so that we can understand God’s word with the Holy Spirit’s leading which enables us to make wide-ranging thorough decisions… Believing that the Bible is God’s Holy Inspired Word. “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 peace in my heart. I really want that peace, joy, and happiness that I long for. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will bring honour to Your Name.” Amen.

RCMP FILES

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).

Falcon Lake RCMP Respond to Drowning

On July 10 at 1:22 pm, Falcon Lake RCMP received a report of a drowning on Caddy Lake.

The RCMP, the Whiteshell fire department and Emergency Medical Services responded immediately. It was reported that two males entered the water but only one resurfaced.

The fire department located the missing male under water. A 23-yearold from Winnipeg was pronounced deceased on scene.

Oakbank RCMP Respond to Plane Crash RCMP Respond to Drowning at Reynolds Ponds

On July 26, at approximately 11 am, Oakbank RCMP were notified of a single plane crash in the Rural Municipality of Springfield, south of Oakbank.

RCMP, local Fire department and Emergency Medical Services attended and located the wreckage of a small, single-engine two-seater aircraft, on the north side of highway 15, west of highway 206.

The body of an adult male was recovered on scene; there were no other occupants on board.

The plane was privately owned.

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada was notified and is investigating.

This accident occurred only a couple weeks after the fatal mid air collision of two small, single-engine aircraft in the RM of Hanover just south of Steinbach where two pilots lost their lives.

Keep all vehicles locked. Check on your neighbours. Call 911 if you suspect a crime is in progress or has occured! Be aware of happenings in your neighbourhood and report suspicious activity to the authorities. Drive to road conditions. Don’t drink and drive or drive high.

Photo submitted by Glen Klassen

On August 2 at approximately 2 pm, Steinbach RCMP were notified of a possible drowning in the RM of Reynolds, at Reynolds Ponds.

Officers responded immediately and when they arrived on scene, were advised by bystanders that a male had been swimming, when suddenly he did not resurface. Bystanders had been searching for the swimmer but had been unable to locate him.

Manitoba RCMP Underwater Recovery Team (URT) was deployed to assist officers with the search.

A 70-year-old man from Ontario was later located deceased.

The Large Birds of Manitoba

By Glen Klassen

The Ostrich of Africa is about 100,000 times bigger than the Bee Hummingbird in Cuba. We don’t have those extremes in Manitoba but we do have some surprisingly big birds. In fact some of the biggest birds in North America make their home in our province.

The Big and Tall club includes the cranes, the swans, the herons, the pelicans, the geese, the eagles, the owls, and the vulture. All of them have wing-spans close to five feet or more, with the White Pelican measuring nine feet from tip to tip. All are excellent flyers, unlike the giant birds of Africa (Ostrich), Australia (Emu), South America (Rhea), and New Guinea (Cassowary).

Besides having the largest wingspan, the local pelican is also the heaviest bird around. Its huge wings allow it to fly a foot or two above the water at a relatively slow speed so that it can spot any unlucky fish as it goes by. To put their huge bills to use they have to land on the water and then scoop up the fish. They don’t dive for their prey as do their cousins the brown pelicans at the seashore. They actually hunt in packs, like wolves, surrounding schools of fish and then gobbling them up. I have a friend who runs a fishing camp and every day he disposes of fish guts by feeding them to birds on a nearby island. The first birds at the feast are the gulls. As soon as my friend goes back to his boat, the bald eagles arrive and feed with the gulls.

Before too long a few pelicans swim up cautiously and when the eagles aren’t looking they sneak in, grab a morsel and immediately retreat to the water. They may be big, but they don’t seem to be too brave.

The tallest birds, of course, are the cranes and the herons. Both the Sandhill Crane and the Great Blue Heron stand about four feet tall, but the heron is a bit taller and slimmer than the crane. The cranes are seen in flocks on meadows and woodlands while the herons live as isolated couples near the water.

It’s quite a thrill to see a heron suddenly take flight from a hidden nest near a creek. They, like the cranes, have huge wings which allow them to soar like gliders at high altitude for long periods of time.

When migrating, the cranes fly in V-formations, just like geese, but you can tell them apart by noting the relatively slow beat of the crane’s wings and by the low guttural, extended croak of their call.

When we observe these majestic birds on the ground we tend to think of words like “elegant”, “graceful”, and “dignified”. The cranes actually do a ritual dance when courting. The herons have long legs and necks which are great for fishing in shallow water, but why do the cranes have the same anatomy? Maybe the long necks act like periscopes; ‘craning’ to see predators in the tall grass and the long legs may let them do a fast takeoff when escaping. Maybe they are just supposed

to be elegant.

The eagle is the most iconic bird in the world. Countless flags, coats of arms, shields, and other trappings of nationalism feature this creature. In Manitoba the eagles and their feathers are greatly esteemed by First Nations peoples. This picture of a noble bird is a myth but the fact that the bald eagle of Manitoba’s southern prairie landscape is primarily a scavenger does not undermine its importance to the environment.

The farmers of India recently found out how important vultures were to the health of animals and humans. A serious die-off of vultures was found to be due to the presence of the anti inflammatory drug diclofenac in the carcasses of dead cows. In the absence of scavengers, the lasting presence of carrion caused widespread disease in animals and humans. This probably would not happen in Manitoba, but we can still thank the eagles, vultures, crows, ravens, and other species for doing their important clean-up work.

There is something majestic about big birds. They are big but not as huge as their dinosaur ancestors. We admire them for their navigation skills, we count them every year, we depict them in books, on posters and on crests, we photograph them endlessly, we even revere them. They are creatures of the same scale as us and yet they are strangely alien. We are happy to share the woodlands and the prairies of Manitoba with them.

The eagle is the most iconic bird in the world.

Fermentation - an Old Fashioned and Easy Way to Preserve Food

By Janet Kroeker

It’s so easy!

When talking to a friend about fermenting garden vegetables, she told me that once she tried fermented pickles she could never go back to using hot vinegar brine Not only was it way simpler, she could make as many jars as she had veggies for without having to figure out how much brine to cook up and pouring any extra down the drain. Instead, all she had to do was cut the vegetables to size, pack the jar(s), cover the veggies with water, add salt, and put the lid on.

She is right. If you are new to fermenting, I hope by the end of this article that you will be encouraged to try it. Those of you not new to fermenting may find some new ideas to try.

Health benefits:

Fermentation is a natural process through which microorganisms like yeast and bacteria convert carbohydrates — such as starch and sugar — into alcohol or acids. The alcohol or acids act as a natural preservative and give fermented foods a distinct zest and tartness. Fermentation also promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, known as probiotics.

Many favourite foods are probably fermented. Wine, cheese, sauerkraut, yogurt and kombucha are common examples. Many cultures have embraced the art of fermentation. Hundreds of medical and scientific studies confirm what human folk wisdom has always known… fermented foods help people stay healthy. Probiotics have been shown to improve immune function as well as digestive and heart health. So,

adding fermented foods to your diet may benefit your overall well-being. How do I get started?

I follow Sandor Katz, one of the people credited with reviving fermentation in our present food culture. He has authored two books considered by many fermenters as their bible, The Art of Fermentation and Wild Fermentation. He also has a short 6 and 1/2 minute video, “Fermenting Vegetables with Sandor Katz”, that I highly recommend. It demonstrates how easy and forgiving the process is.

I recommend classic sauerkraut as the best initiation for a wannabe fermenter. Perfect for introducing you to fermentation. Sauerkraut is easy to make and absolutely delicious. I enjoy adding a couple of large forkfuls of kraut to my green salad or adding it to a sandwich like you do in a Rueben sandwich.

Sandor Katz has been nicknamed “Sandorkraut” for his love of sauerkraut. The following is his easy sauerkraut recipe from his book, Wild Fermentation.

Recipe

Time frame: 3 days to 3 months (and beyond)

Vessel: 1 quart or litre wide mouth jar, or a larger jar or crock

Ingredients:

- 2 pounds of vegetables per quart/litre, any variety of cabbage alone or in combination, (at least half cabbage and the remainder any combination of radishes, turnips, carrots, beets, kohlrabi, Jerusalem artichokes, onions, shallots, leeks, garlic, greens, peppers or other vegetables).

- Approximately 1 tablespoon of non-iodized salt (start with less, add if needed after tasting).

- Other seasonings as desired, such as caraway seeds, juniper berries, dill, chilli peppers, ginger, turmeric, dried cranberries or whatever you can conjure in your imagination.

Process:

- Prepare the vegetables.

- Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and reserve.

- Scrub the root vegetables, but do not peel.

- Chop or grate all vegetables into a bowl. The purpose of this is to expose surface area in order to pull water out of the vegetables, so they can be submerged in their own juices. The finer the veggies are shredded, the easier it is to get juices out, but fineness and coarseness can vary with excellent results.

Salt and Season: Sauerkraut does not require heavy salting. Taste after the next step and add more salt if desired. It is always easier to add more salt than to remove it.

Squeeze the salted vegetables with your hands for a few minutes (or pound with a blunt tool). This bruises the vegetables, breaking down the cell walls and enabling them to release their juices. Squeeze/ pound until a squeezed handful releases juice (as from a wet sponge).

Pack the salted and squeezed vegetables into the jar/crock. Press the vegetables down with force, using your fingers or a blunt tool, so that air bubbles are expelled and juice rises up and over the vegetables.

Fill the jar not quite all the way to the top, leaving a little space for expansion. The vegetables have a tendency to float to the top of the brine, so it’s best to keep them pressed down using one of the cabbage leaves, folded to fit inside the jar. Or use a carved chunk of root vegetable, or a small glass or ceramic insert as a weight.

Screw the top on the jar. Lactic acid bacteria are anaerobic and do not need oxygen (though they can function in the presence of oxygen). However, be aware that fermentation produces carbon dioxide, so pressure will build up in the jar and needs to be released daily (“burped”), especially the first few days, when fermentation will be most vigorous.

Wait. Be sure to loosen the top to relieve pressure each day for the first few days. The

rate of fermentation will be faster in a warm environment, slower in a cool one. Some people prefer their krauts lightly fermented for just a few days; others prefer a stronger, more acidic flavour that develops over weeks and months.

Taste after just a few days, then a few days later, and at regular intervals to discover what you prefer. Along with the flavour, the texture changes over time, beginning crunchy and gradually softening. Move to the refrigerator when it has reached your sweet spot and you wish to slow the fermentation.

Remove surface growth. The most common problem that people encounter in fermenting vegetables is surface growth of yeast and/or moulds, facilitated by oxygen. Many books refer to this as “scum”, but Sandor prefers to think of it as a bloom. It’s a surface phenomenon, a result of contact with the air. If you should encounter surface growth, remove as much of it as you can, along with any discoloured or soft kraut from the top layer and discard into your compost. The fermented vegetables beneath will generally look, smell and taste fine. The surface growth can break up as you remove it making it impossible to remove all of it. Don’t worry.

Enjoy your kraut! Start eating it when the kraut is young and enjoy its evolving flavour over the course of a few weeks (or months in a large batch). Be sure to try the sauerkraut juice after the kraut is eaten. Sauerkraut juice packs a strong flavour, and is unparalleled as a digestive tonic.

Develop a rhythm. Start a new batch before the previous batch runs out. Get a few different flavours or styles going at once, for variety. Experiment!

I hope you have enjoyed this deeper dive into fermentation.

The Stuartburn EmersonFranklin Food Initiative has a website localfood initiative. ca. The home page has a link called “education” where we archive all our previous articles, such as this one for you to access any time. There, under the heading Gardening and Preserving, we have a previous, more general article - “Preserving the Harvest”. While on our website, click on the directory where you can find details of producers offering local food and other goods in the RMs of Stuartburn and EmersonFranklin.

Cabbages covered with row cover that allows light and moisture through, but not the cabbage butterfly - that makes the cabbage wormy.

Picking a nice fresh head of cabbage.

A large bowl for mixing the ingredients, knife and cutting board for chopping, caraway seeds and turmeric, as well as shallots and garlic are my additions to this round of sauerkraut.

Two varieties of Kraut ready to ferment. With at least an inch of air space, by the next morning some liquid was already spilling out of the closed jar. That’s how quickly the fermentation becomes active.

Submitted photos Janet Kroeker

Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Students Recognized for Skill, Spirit, and Perseverance During Colour Belt Promotion Test

Aethos Taekwondo held its 12th Colour Belt Promotion Test mid-June at Ste. Anne Immersion School, where 31 students stepped forward to challenge themselves and advance in rank.

The event, shared quietly among the club’s two branches, marked another milestone in Aethos Taekwondo’s ongoing commitment to the development of

its martial artists. Each student performed in front of a testing committee, showcasing their skills in poomsae (patterns), sparring, board breaking, and overall technique.

Two standout participants, Denis Funk and Antony Bobrowski, were nominated by several committee members for the coveted Excellence Award based on their ex-

ceptional all-around performance. This marked Funk’s second Excellence Award in under a year, earning him a rare doublerank promotion to Green Belt.

In addition to the top honours, a number of students were recognized in specific categories for their outstanding abilities and dedication:

- Best Taekwondo Techniques: Cosette Karasevich and Grady Pelletier

- Best Poomsae: Angelina Bobrowski and Jaryl Cain Villanueva

- Best Sparring: Shaniah Alger and Joseph Lemoine

- Best Effort, Focus, & Spirit: Kai Baxter

- Best Manner: Reese Paul and Remi Legal

- Perseverance: Camryn Redhead

- Best Board Breaking: Felicity Mousseau and Antony Bobrowski

With strong representation across all skill categories, the event highlighted the discipline, determination, and progress of the club’s members.

Aethos Taekwondo continues to foster both athletic development and personal growth, preparing its students not just for the next belt, but for the challenges beyond the mat.

Ritchot Seniors Try Their Hand at Disc Golf

A group of local seniors enjoyed a fun and active morning learning the basics of disc golf, thanks to a special event hosted by Ritchot Senior Services. Held under sunny skies, the event gave participants a chance to try something new while enjoying the outdoors and each other’s company. Danielle Peters from Ritchot Recreation

“Who knows, maybe we have a future disc golf pro in the group!” Ritchot Senior Services

Residents are also reminded that the RM of Ritchot offers a variety of recreational items available to borrow for free, including disc golf sets. Interested individuals can contact the

Learning the basics of disc golf.

Submitted photo

Back row: Jocelyn Kropodra, Frederik Kehoe, Lily Benson, Cosette Karasevich, Lia Legal, Felicity Mousseau, Artem Sikhazulidze, Julien Comia. 4th row: Reid Ammeter, Grady Pelletier, Kai Baxter, Angelina Bobrowski, Antony Bobrowski, Denis Funk, Camryn Redhead, Elyza Jolicoeur-Funk, Nicholas Sarkonak. 3rd row: Casia Schreyer, Edric Comia, Master Lionel Bernier, Melody Tardiff, Carter Tardiff, David Lemoing. 2nd row: Eathen Caron, Conner Caron-Chaput, Yuma Ogasawara, Remi Legal, Alice Leclair, Reese Paul, Xavier Sarrasin, Joseph Lemoine, Jaryl Cain Villanueva. 1st row: Grace Tomchak, Ihor Sikhazulidze, Felix Marasco, Denis Bivol, Shaniah Alger, Quintin Sarrasin, Bastian Paz Piasco, Philipe Legal.

Denis Funk with his Excellence and Double-Rank certificates.

Photo by Aubree Woodhall

Photo by Heather Benson