Dawson Trail Dispatch March 2017

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Falcon Lake Hosts its 43rd Annual Beaver Days

One of the highlights of the 43rd annual Beaver Days weekend was the Manitoba Mini Sled Racer’s Association (MMSRA) oval track races on Falcon Lake for competitors from ages 4 to 14.

For the forty-third year in a row, visitors from far and wide flocked to Falcon Lake to participate in Beaver Days for a two day winter festival that took place February 4 and 5.

The event included a Snowmobile Poker Derby on the Zubec Trail, SnoMo Radar Runs, MMRSA oval track, sponge hockey tournament, X-Country Prediction Run, kid’s activities and crafts, Texas Hold’em Tournament, horse drawn sleigh rides,

chili cook off, skating party, snowmobile demo, Whiteshell Trappers and Manitoba Conservation display, live entertainment and the popular mustache and beard competition.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the Manitoba Mini Sled Racer’s Association (MMSRA). The event featured youth on a snow and ice oval for snowmobile racers with competitors from aged 4 to 14 racing their sleds in 10 classes.

The first festival was held in 1974 when full time residents of the area decided to host a winter carnival and snowmobile poker derby. In the first three years, the event was limited to a one-day poker derby, and dance at the community club lounge. The popularity of the festival quickly outgrew the community’s club lounge so the event was moved to the old downstairs ballroom of the El’nor Motel in Falcon Lake.

March 2017

Province Commits to Capital Health Projects

By Marianne Curtis Manitoba Health has approved 95 projects across the province that are expected to ensure the safety and security requirements identified by the province’s regional health authorities. The list of approved projects includes six within Southern Health.

Healthy Seniors and Active Living Minister Kelvin Goertzen said that, “Replacement equipment, repairs to existing facilities, and upgrades to safety and security are necessary if we are to avoid the deterioration of buildings and other infrastructure within our healthcare system.”

The majority of the projects announced are included within the health department’s capital debt, which currently sits at $1.2 billion for completed healthsector projects. The government sets an internal limit on the amount of healthcare capital debt repayments each year to ensure the health department does not over-commit to capital projects and remains able to afford both payments on capital debt and day-to-day health services.

In Southern Health, six projects were approved with two located in the southeast. Money has been put aside to install a sprinkler system in Grunthal’s Menno Home for the Aged and a sprinkler system in the support services area of Rest Haven Nursing Home in Steinbach. The other projects approved are to replace the nurse call and patient wandering security systems at the Portage District General Hospital, replacing the nurse call system at Foyer Notre Dame in Notre Dame de Lourdes, repairing the roof at the personal care home in St. Claude and replacing the air unit in the laboratory at the Carman hospital.

Goertzen added that the province would exceed its capital cap in 2017-18, making it necessary for several projects to be removed from the capital program. “The previous administration committed to many projects in late 2015 and early 2016 despite knowing the government’s limited ability to pay for either their construction or the operating budgets required to provide services at these new sites,” said Goertzen. “This failure to plan has left our government with some very hard decisions to make about projects that were committed to, but not budgeted for, by the previous government.”

The $30 million worth of projects that are moving ahead are essential to maintaining the major physical assets of the healthcare system and prevent any catastrophic event that could affect patient care and access to facilities, Goertzen added.

March 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

First Ile des Chenes Snowman Festival a Success

On February 11, the community of Ile des Chenes hosted the first annual SnowMan Festival organized by the Ritchot Regional Chamber of Commerce. The one-day event drew families to the TransCanada Centre for a family-friendly snow day.

Marc Palud, Chamber Vice-President of the Chamber, on behalf of all of the organizers said they were pleased with the inaugural event.

“A while back, there was a figure skating type of event and, other than that, IDC has a lot of hockey tournaments but no formal winter festival day,” explained Palud. “We wanted to celebrate winter with an annual community event.”

While the Chamber spearheaded the event, the festival is entirely volunteer driven and sponsored.

The festival kicked off with the main event, a community wide snowman-building contest. Other activities included tons of children’s such as carnival games, bouncers and face painting. The festival gave businesses an opportunity to high-

light what they have to offer and festivalgoers could sample community arts and crafts, Henna Tattoos, Martial arts demos, snowmobile show and shine, bonfire, public skating, Wildlife Haven Showcase, toboggan slide, and more. The day ended with fireworks, followed by the Canada White, Red and Valentine Themed Social.

Funds raised at the event will be used to fund a bigger and better event next year.

The Garage Inc. Snow and Shine was a huge hit at the first annual IDC SnowMan Festival.

The winning entry into the first Ile des Chenes annual Snowman building contest.

Bethesda Auxiliary to Host Spring Book Sale

By Marianne Curtis Volunteers from the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary are looking for help in making their upcoming annual spring book sale another success.

Over the past several weeks, the ladies from the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary have collected thousands of books and other reading materials for resale at the upcoming event scheduled to take place on March 22 to 25 at the Clearspring Centre in Steinbach.

According to Verna Thiessen, spokesperson for the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary books are coming in and volunteers are needed

to help sort and price books. In preparation for the sale, book sorting has commenced at the Clearspring Centre on Tuesdays from 9:30 am to 4 pm.

“We can never have too many volunteers,” Thiessen said. Donations can be dropped off during this time.

“While we are sorting, we are selling $0.50 books,” said Thiessen.

“There is quite a collection of gently used books; they are slightly worn, or not in the condition we would like for our sale.”

Over the years, the Bethesda Hospital Auxiliary has hosted two used book sales per year as part of their mandate to raise funds in support of

the regions largest hospital. These biannual events have raised well over $500,000 for medical equipment necessary for patient comfort or safety, but not funded through Manitoba Health programs.

The Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary is also recruiting new members. They meet in the book sorting room at the Clearspring Centre on the first Tuesday of the Month except from April to September.

Anyone interested in volunteering or joining the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary can contact Verna at 204-326-3028 for more information.

Photos by Marianne Curtis

MLCC Cancels Bingo Funding – Non-Profits Worry

By Marianne Curtis The future of funding for nonprofit organizations is up in the air after the recent Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Commission (MLLC) decision to no longer support the Bingo Volunteer Program. This decision has left community groups, sports teams and community organizations worried about funding.

Diana Soroka, Director Community Support for MLCC said that with the declining popularity of paper bingo at Winnipeg Casinos, volunteers are no longer needed. “Community organizations that were allocated bingos between January and March 31, 2017 were notified earlier this year that they would receive their funds without the expectation of volunteer work,” said Soroka.

“Money earmarked for the Bingo Volunteer Program for the 201718 fiscal year will be provided directly to umbrella groups that oversee the volunteer allocations.”

The Bingo Volunteer Program has been in place since 1984. It provides approximately $4 million annually to about 400 community organizations and nonprofit groups.

The Crow Wing Trail Association (CWTA) is one of many organizations that regularly use Bingo funds for projects.

“It is definitely a blow. We have benefited many times from $1,500 and $3,000 bingos,” said CWTA President Murielle Bugera. “I wish they would find something to replace it. I understand what

they are saying though, as a reason for doing away with them, but there needs to be other options for accessing funds.”

Geri Sweet, Manitoba Horse Council President said this decision has serious implications for their group as well. “We all know, from recent news reports that the government is looking for ways to cut costs and save money. We also know, however, that the idea of lotteries was founded on providing support to community groups, including sport organizations,” said Sweet. “We hope that a campaign would help the government understand that, in terms of the development and support of our communities, the cost of eliminating such a program would substantially exceed any savings they would achieve.”

According to the MLCC, funding of the Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries Bingo Volunteer Program will continue through the 2017-18 fiscal year, with money going to umbrella organizations who will allocate the funds for local community and non-profit organizations without the requirement of fulfilling volunteer hours. These umbrella organizations include the Manitoba Community Services Council, Sport Manitoba, Manitoba Arts Council, Manitoba Community Education, Heritage Grants Council and Multi Culturalism Secretariat.

There is no indication if the project has been cancelled completely or if it is being reworked and if another funding avenue will be made available to community organizations.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

From Emerson to Alaska Via the Crow Wing Trail

By Marianne Curtis On February 18, racers from around the world gathered in the frozen, but thawing winter landscape for this year’s Actif Epica.

Spanning the Crow Wing Trail, Actif Epica is adding options for its 6th annual event. Options include a 120 km, beginning in St Malo for Cyclists or Runners, with newly added extended options for cyclists beginning in Emerson (200 km) and runners beginning in Ridgeville (162 km).

The Crow Wing Trail provides a unique set of experiences to participants, traversing the Red River through southeastern Manitoba through to The Forks.

Murielle Bugera, President of the Crow Wing Trail Association is amazed at the growth the event has seen over the years, and what it has

done for the exposure of the locally managed trail. “It would have been difficult to predict back in 1999 when the Association was formed, that in 2017 it would be involved in qualifications for the internationallyrenowned Iditarod Trail Invitational in Alaska, one of only 7 events globally to do so,” said Burgera. “Yet that is exactly what this year’s Actif Epica has garnered with its 6th race on the Crow Wing Trail on the February long weekend.”

This year’s roster had racers coming from four provinces, including Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan and Alberta. Racers also came from eight states, North Dakota, Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin, Missouri, Tennessee, Iowa and Michigan.

Some racers came as far away as Brazil and India.

Contestants had the option of the classic distance of 120 km, begin-

ning in St Malo for cyclists or the newly added extended options for cyclists beginning in Emerson. Runners began at Ridgeville (162 km). There was also an opportunity to buddy up and try the classic route as a two or 6-person relay.

Part of the challenge of the event is the temperatures and the road conditions. Last year, Emerson was -26°C and felt like -35°C with the wind chill at 7 am.

This year offered above zero temperatures, sun and a slight wind, which affected route conditions.

Actif Epica is a celebration of human resilience, and the organizers encourage outdoor activity events along the race route. This year events took place in Ridgeville, St. Malo, St Pierre-Jolys, Crystal Springs Hutterite Colony, Niverville and St. Adolphe.

March 2017

St. Malo Puts on a Community Show in Festival of Friends

By Marianne Curtis The weather was perfect for this year’s Festival of Friends in St. Malo. Starting February 17 and running until February 20, the crowds came out to enjoy a family friendly weekend filled with various activities strategically placed throughout the community.

Since 2008, the annual St-Malo Festival of Friends offers a spectacular celebration of culture, cuisine and tradition. This year’s festival weekend kicked off with fireworks followed by Junior B hockey action in the arena and a performance

by Revolving Doors.

Saturday morning started bright and early with Actif Epica starting out from the St. Malo arena and a community pancake brunch. The

afternoon was filled with children’s activities including face painting and games followed by a PJ movie night.

The St. Malo Provincial Park played host to skiing and snowshoeing. Other activities that took place included a cribbage tournament, pea soup contest, community Mass, and more Junior B Hockey on Sunday. Afterwards Highway 23, Emilie Chartier and Catie St. Germain Band put on a show at the Sunday night community social.

On Monday, the community was invited to Little Steps Wellness Farm for horseback rides, petting zoo, face painting and other activities.

Since February 2008, a Friends’ Winter Festival is held during the Louis Riel long weekend to celebrate this “Joie de Vivre”.

It was a beautiful weekend for cross-country skiing through the St. Malo Provincial Park during this year’s Festival of Friends.

Actif Epica participants make their way along the Crow Wing Trail as they venture from Emerson to The Forks in one of the most grueling winter races in the country.

Provencher MP Concerned about Border Security Over the past few weeks, dozens of refugee claimants have crossed the Canada-US border in Emerson.

The small border town has been trying to help asylum seekers said Greg Janzen, the Reeve of Emerson.

He says the influx is beginning to put a strain on local resources and raise some security concerns over potential risks to the residents. “It’s starting to get concerning, because the numbers are growing,” Janzen said. So far, the asylum seekers have caused no trouble, and there have been no confrontations. But Janzen said there are worries that someone, possibly with a criminal background, might be able to sneak in among the asylum seekers and into their community.

“I’m scared, the bigger the numbers, if we don’t have enough officials, someone is going to slip through the crack because there’s so many people to process,” Janzen said. “It’s about to blow. I think

there’s going to be confrontations; there is going to be an incident.”

Provencher MP Ted Falk said the asylum seekers should be using an official port of entry rather than crossing the border illegally. “We have a port of entry for a reason, because that’s where we expect people that want to enter into our country to come,” said Falk. He acknowledged he has not heard that any of those who have crossed the border recently may pose a threat. But he said there has been some anxiety among residents who have been woken up by those seeking asylum.

“Quite often [the asylum seekers] come in the middle of the night, they pound on the door, ring the doorbell, tap on the glass. Some [residents] are quite anxious about that situation,” said Falk. “We don’t know the people who are coming across. Are they all coming across because of a desire to seek a better life? Or are they coming across perhaps because

they are criminals?”

Falk said RCMP officials have indicated the situation has consumed a fair amount of their time in terms of monitoring the flow of refugees across the border and picking up individuals and bringing them to the Emerson port of entry to be processed.

“We hadn’t anticipated that we would be losing members in the detachment, but I’m quite certain they [Federal Government] will be providing additional staff for both Emerson and Morris,” Falk stated.

“In addition to the migrant situation, the RCMP is being paid by the municipality to provide policing services to the municipality and has an obligation to meet those needs.” The detachment provides police services to a large region and a communities and refugee claimants might not always be a top priority in emergencies according to Falk.

March 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Choosing a New Conservative Leader This is the first time for any Canadian party that a field of 14 hopefuls have sought this rare chance at making history.

Sure, he or she will not be Prime Minister yet but for a Prime Minister to win two elections and stay on for a crack at three has historically not been advisable. We Canadians generally vote them out.

They get that haughty and arrogant air about them that induces in the voter an urge to speak with the authority of the maligned.

In other words if the winner of the Conservative convention and the Conservative rank and file do not lose patience, that lucky individual will one day be Prime Minister of Canada.

I could list their names but it would probably cost the life of a tree so I will opt to be conservative. I will say that some have the basis for good ideas and some are scary, many are bilingual and some promise to learn French.

This brings up a “déjà vu” when Dion ran for the Liberals as his lack of English was an impediment to many voters. An English unilingual candidate when canvassing in Quebec will face similarities.

Another memorable instance was Liberal Michael Ignatieff who was accused of just visiting. His roots had a lot more history in America than Canada. The then Conservatives were right in hammering to the electorate these obvious candidate deficiencies. But woe, the leading Tory candidate Kevin O’Leary who doesn’t speak French and lives in America. Furthermore, is he a TV personality, wishing to emulate the American President perhaps?

I wonder where the Americans who left for Canada will then go.

Maybe Manitoba Premier Pallister could use neighbours in Costa Rica.

I’m hoping for a leader with principles that will appreciate the world geopolitics and makes us proud. That’s what Canada will always need.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Illegal Border Crossings Near Emerson Recently my office has been receiving a tremendous amount of calls on two issues – The illegal border crossings near Emerson and Motion M-103.

Illegal Border Crossings: In January, I toured RCMP detachments across my riding, and one message from the members was clear. The RCMP is stretched thin across rural Manitoba.

I brought this up in my recent discussions with the RCMP and CBSA regarding the increase in illegal border crossings. I made it clear to them that residents of Emerson cannot shoulder this responsibility themselves, nor should they be expected to. I have been assured that resources are being reallocated to the Emerson area to deal with this situation.

This is good news, but those reallocated resources should not come at the expense of services in other areas of Provencher. The last thing we want to see is an emergency in another area of rural Manitoba that cannot be responded to in a timely fashion because the majority of resources are focused on illegal migrants in the Emerson area. Taxpayers must have the services they pay

for available to them when they need it.

Canada is a generous and accepting country, and we will continue to welcome refugees, but we also need to ensure the integrity of our border. We must always consider our national security and do our due diligence to make sure we know who is entering our country, where they are entering and why.

We also need to ensure that the system is consistent and fair to all those seeking to make Canada their new home. The Liberal Government should stop dragging their heels and work toward creating solutions to address these illegal border crossings.

Motion M-103 Motion M-103 calls on the government to, among other things, “Condemn Islamophobia and all forms of systemic racism and religious discrimination.”

Although I would certainly agree with the condemnation of unjust discrimination toward people of faith, I cannot support this motion because it singles out Islamophobia by name while not doing so for other forms of religious discrimination taking place in Canada. I have additional

concerns about the long-term implications on freedom of speech as the term “Islamophobia” is undefined.

This, in effect, blurs the line between hate speech and fair critiques of Islam and indeed all faiths.

In response, our Conservative opposition introduced a far more balanced and inclusive motion which condemns “Systemic racism, religious intolerance and discrimination of Muslims, Jews, Christians, Sikhs, Hindus, and other religious communities.”

Last week, every Liberal Member of Parliament in attendance voted against the more balanced motion we put forward. Judging by their vote, we must assume the Liberals will continue to move forward with their less inclusive “Islamophobia” motion.

You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204326-9889. You may also write my office at 76 PTH 12 N, Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4, e-mail me at ted.falk. c1@parl.gc.ca or visit my website at tedfalk.ca.

A New Course for All of Manitoba After a break from the official business of the legislature, our Manitoba government is rolling up its sleeves and getting back to work. On March 1, we will resume the legislative session that began last fall and continue to work on a new course for the province – one that leads to economic opportunity and improvements to front-line services while putting Manitoba back on a responsible fiscal track. We are fixing Manitoba’s finances, repairing our services and rebuilding the economy. We will continue to govern for all Manitobans and create a stronger, safer and more prosperous province.

As part of our continuing work to rebuild the economy, our government has begun calling on Manitobans and others to create their own success stories in the province’s north by contributing vision to the development of this vast region.

This is a new phase of our Look North Strategy for sustainable economic and business development and growth in northern Manitoba.

We are encouraging investors and businesses from outside the region to consider investing in northern Manitoba’s potential by developing entrepreneurial opportunities, open-

ing businesses, expanding their expertise or building partnerships leading to economic development and the creation of jobs.

This next stage of the Look North Strategy involves the website looknorthmb.ca, which has information on building businesses in northern Manitoba. We are encouraging Manitobans to share their vision and appreciation for the north through social media by submitting short videos or photographs, or in writing, and by using the hashtag #looknorthmb.

Even during the hiatus from the legislative session, February has indeed been a busy time for our provincial government. With two announcements this month, we laid out a plan for strategic infrastructure investments that are responding to local priorities and improving the quality and safety of roads and bridges. These investments will increase economic activity by improving the smooth and efficient flow of traffic.

In early February, Indigenous and Municipal Relations Minister Eileen Clarke announced an expenditure of more than $1.9 million for 10 reconstruction or repair projects for municipal bridges across the province.

Just days earlier, Infrastructure Minister Blaine Pedersen announced that our government is cost-sharing more than $3 million for six projects to reconstruct and upgrade roads and highways in eastern, south-central and southwestern Manitoba.

Also, this month, I was fortunate to have the opportunity for a tour of the Parkland Mews Falconry and Bird of Prey Education Centre on the south edge of Winnipeg. I found this facility fascinating and a great place to learn about wildlife.

In addition, I recently visited Ste. Anne’s Villa Youville seniors’ residential complex, which allows couples who need varying levels of support and housing to stay at the same place. I enjoyed the chance to have coffee with the staff and those who are living there.

Bob Lagasse, MLA for the constituency of Dawson Trail

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Census Stats Show Significant Growth Throughout Region

By Marianne Curtis

For the first time in almost three generations, Manitobans can say their province has grown faster than the national average. At the beginning of February, Statistics Canada released the first batch of numbers from the 2016 census, which show a provincial increase of 5.8 per cent.

The data shows the RM of Ritchot was one of the fastest growing municipalities in Manitoba’s Capital Region over the past five years.

The population grew 21.9 percent between 2011 and 2016. The municipality reported a population of 6,679 people as of the 2016 Census, an increase from the previous 5,479 in 2011.

Ritchot Mayor Jackie Hunt attributed the growth to the approval of a development plan six years ago, which set out where the municipality was allowed to develop new lots.

“It was a time where the city was having a housing shortage. Prices were going up, and so they were starting to look where else can we go,” said Hunt. “In general, Manitoba’s population has increased and

most people are going to migrate to the big centres, and the capital region is where we sit and we’re very fortunate for that.”

Steinbach’s Mayor Chris Goertzen said the numbers were lower than expected, but they are still pleased.

Statistics Canada reports Steinbach’s population at 15,829, up by 2,305 people or 17% from 2011.

“We thought it would be right around that 16,000 - 16,200 mark but it’s close. We’ve grown 17% and, in the last decade, we’ve grown significantly. We’ve seen a population increase of 5,000 people [since 2006],” said Goertzen.

Nearly every community saw an increase in population. The Town of Niverville is up to 4,610 from 2011 and Ste. Anne increased to 2,114, which amounts to a 30% increase in both communities.

The RM of Hanover is still the largest municipality in the province with a population of 15,733 or a 12.2% increase. For the first time in history, the City of Steinbach has a higher population that the municipality from which it sprung.

The RM of Tache is up 12.5% with

a population of 11,568 while the RM of La Broquerie is up 16% with a population of 6,076. The RM of Ste. Anne saw an increase of 6.8% to 5,003.

The RM of De Salaberry increased to 3,580 from 3,450, the RM of Reynolds grew from 1,285 to 1,338 and the RM of Stuartburn saw growth to 1,648 from 1,535.

The RM of Piney saw the least amount of growth in the region with a modest increase of 6 people to raise their number to 1,726 in 2016 from 1,720 in 2011.

The national census is conducted every five years and 2016 saw the re-introduction of the Census long form. The information published was the first of several releases of data to come from Statistics Canada over the next year and will eventually paint a detailed picture of the country, right down to the local level. Future census releases will give more insight to explain the reasons behind the population changes, whether it is related to changes in birth and death rates, immigration or interprovincial migration.

The Health of Manitoba and Manitobans When Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen was chosen to lead up healthcare as the Minister of Health, Seniors and Active Living, he knew he was being handed one of the most contentious cabinet positions ever created.

Everyone has an opinion on how to improve our healthcare and these range from spending more money and hiring more professionals to cutting funds and centralizing services. This analogy goes hand-inhand, like a slide ruler, with political philosophy.

In a perfect world, we would be truly clear on who in power can provide the best service. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Governments do not start at zero and work from a clean slate. They work with what they are handed, an infrastructure, labour force, and policies built upon previous decisions over generations, good and bad. It is similar to the horrors of the income tax act where changes and amendments are added to existing changes and amendments creating thousands of pages where good accountants are now the rocket scientists of our generation.

Goertzen cannot wipe the slate clean. The priorities of the previous governments are affecting how he

makes decisions that will also reflect his government’s political philosophy. While conservative economics are being skewed they still present in a watered down form.

He is finding it necessary to throw the concept away of “what do we have available to spend” and in its place “how small can the overspending be held.” This is a purely a conservative value compromise.

Instead of working towards spending what we have in the bank, he is looking at keeping the borrowing at a certain level where debt servicing does not go above a certain value… a figure he inherited. The capital cap (annual principal and interest payments) is legislated at $189.5 million (this was just increased to this level in 2010). According to the Minister of Finance, if they maintained the previous government’s course of action, by next year, this figure would have been eclipsed, which would have required government action to increase the maximum allowed.

So, working within his party’s values and taking into account previous government decisions, Goertzen, like many of his counterparts of the past, has to make tough decisions of what is going to get shelved and what is moving forward. The majority of Manitobans elected the Progressive Conservatives so we knew what path would be chosen. Projects moving forward will most likely fall

into the category of maintaining what we have to ensure we do not encounter catastrophic costs in the near future.

We need to give him credit for recognizing that tough choices could possibly make him unpopular in certain areas. He has to make the hard decision of prioritizing projects. He has taken the steps to discuss the shelved projects with those affected, a necessary but unpleasant task. We all need to recognize that his position affects us in the most personal manner. My impression is that Goertzen goes beyond the dollars and statistics and knows his decisions affect individuals and families. When a family member or we need health care we get rightfully egocentric… nothing else matters. We are stressed and we just want the problems to go away or fixed immediately.

Manitobans have an advantage here though. If you really watch Goertzen, you do not see your typical pigeon holed politician. You actually see someone who is in touch with real people, has amazing family and community values and honestly cares. He is honest with his decisions and these tough choices will wear heavy with him.

If given an opportunity to achieve a “cleaner slate” Manitobans will see a better future.

March 2017

One-for-One Will Reduce Red Tape The second session of the 41st Manitoba legislature will resume on Wednesday, March 1.

I’m looking forward to this next part of the session, as it will be busy and exciting. Our government will bring forward several pieces of legislation as we continue to repair our services, fix our finances and rebuild our economy in the La Verendrye constituency and across the province.

Our new Manitoba government is launching several important and exciting measures to greatly reduce red tape that hampers businesses, nonprofit groups and municipalities. One of these measures will be legislation that will require the provincial government to remove a regulatory requirement every time a new requirement with a similar administrative burden is put in place. This ‘one-for-one’ law would cap the growth of such requirements faced by companies, local governments and non-profit organizations.

To help support the growth of Manitoba’s agricultural industry, our government is also cutting red tape by removing unnecessary regulatory requirements on the construction of farm buildings. The current Manitoba Farm Building Code, which is costly and impractical, will be repealed after we amend the Manitoba Building Code to add specific, commonsense provisions for farm structures and facilities.

Aside from our work to eliminate red tape, northern Manitoba will have a key role to play in our province’s prosperity and growth. Our Look North Strategy for sustainable economic and business development in northern Manitoba is now into an exciting new phase, as we encourage businesses and investors from outside the province’s north to consider investing in this region.

As part of this initiative, Travel Manitoba is leading a tourism strategy to examine opportunities across the northern region. Northern Manitoba is full of great experiences waiting to happen, and offers some of the best fly-in fishing as well as our northern lights, polar bears and beluga whales of Churchill. When was the last time you explored northern Manitoba?

Tourism, however, is only one sector of potential growth in the north.

We recognize this is a diverse region with opportunities in various sectors, particularly in the sustainable development of natural resources.

Look North will work toward the creation of a competitive and business-friendly environment that will bring renewed opportunity to northern Manitoba. More information can be found through the website looknorthmb.ca.

The need for economic development and diversification in the north was ignored far too long under the previous NDP administration. Our Progressive Conservative government sees the incredible potential of this vast area.

As always, I look forward to hearing from you with your questions or concerns. I can be reached at my constituency office at 204-424-5406, at my legislature office at 204-945-4339 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov. mb.ca. Dennis Smook, MLA for the constituency of La Verendrye.

March 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

St. Malo Entrepreneur Wins US Travel Ban Raises Concern at “Just Watch Me” Contest Providence College

By Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis On January 27, the US President, Donald Trump signed an executive order halting all refugee admissions and temporarily barring people from seven Muslim-majority countries.

The move sparked numerous protests and legal challenges. A week later a federal judge in Seattle suspended it nationwide, allowing banned visitors to travel to the US pending an appeal by the administration.

Providence College and Seminary School in Otterburne responded to the international concerns by issuing a statement, saying that they were “deeply troubled” by the recent US Executive Order temporarily preventing people from seven countries from entering the United States.

“We recognize the sovereignty of the United States to act in keeping with its own interests, but as a multicultural campus in Canada, this temporary travel ban affects our students,” the statement reads.

It was further noted that Providence College’s Student Council President was one of the students directly affected by the ban.

Under the ban, Bardia Salimkhani, who is from Iran, would be unable to travel to or through the US because of the Executive Order. “It makes you feel really small and unimportant,” Salimkhani explained. “Just because I have an Iranian passport doesn’t mean I’m a bad person, doesn’t mean I’m going to do something wrong. It wasn’t my choice, I was born there.”

The ban could also affect Salimkhani’s upcoming graduation. The aviation student is expected to do an international flying exercise this semester as part of his graduation requirement. His parents may not be allowed to attend graduation, if they have to pass through the US to get here.

Providence President Dr. David Johnson said the college is concerned for the many students in Canada and around the world.

“Students like Bardia are being painted with a single brush of suspicion and fear,” Johnson explained. “As a Christian academic community in the evangelical tradition, we strive to exemplify the gospel of grace by upholding the dignity of, showing respect to and serving all people regardless of race, religion or culture. One of our goals is to eliminate racial and cultural prejudice.”

tough choice because there were two local entrepreneurs to choose from this year. Fouasse was competing against Christine Morin, of Christine Morin Photography who is also from St. Malo.

The Just Watch ME! video contest is run jointly by the Manitoba and Saskatchewan Community Futures Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP). The contest is open to people with self-identified disabilities or ongoing health conditions, operating businesses in rural Saskatchewan or rural Manitoba. The organization also provides business advice, training, mentorship and access to repayable business loans.

On February 17, Lucy Fouasse founder of Lil’ Steps Miniatures & Wellness Farm in St Malo was named as this year’s 1st Place finalist in the Just Watch ME! video contest.

The Just Watch ME! video contest celebrates the success of entrepreneurs with disabilities or health conditions, operating a business in rural Manitoba or Saskatchewan. For two weeks, online viewers voted daily for their favorites.

Lucy Fouasse opened Lil’ Steps Miniatures & Wellness Farm just over a year and a half ago. She provides animal assisted counselling and equine facilitated wellness for children and teens with a variety of needs. “Two years ago, I suffered a life changing head injury,” Fouasse explained.

“In my own personal experience, I have seen first-hand the healing power of horses and the many lessons they teach us such as patience, acceptance, self-awareness, leadership, confidence, and trust.”

The Just Watch Me! video contest encourages disabled entrepreneurs to share their business success story and inspire other people with disabilities to become their own boss. Two winners from both Manitoba and Saskatchewan are awarded cash prizes and a number of other tools that could assist in their business operations.

Lucy Fouasse founder of Lil’ Steps Miniatures & Wellness Lucy was awarded a prize based on the Farm in St Malo is presented with $1,000 cash and prizes number of votes she received. Voters had a after winning this year’s Just Watch ME! video contest.

Women’s Business Network Sees Relaunch

By Marianne Curtis Women business owners throughout southern Manitoba are invited to join the newly relaunched Woman’s Business Network. The Women’s Business Network was once a vibrant and supportive community of local business owners for about a decade.

Nancy McNaughton, owner of Dreality Coaching and former member of the group has decided to breathe new life into the organization. “A couple of years ago I was a member of Women’s Business Network Southeast Manitoba. It was very beneficial and encouraging as we took the time to meet, network, and share and plan events together. Unfortunately, it suddenly came to an end as leadership resigned,” McNaughton explained. “I recently attended SheDay and it reminded me how important it is for us women to take the time to connect. Sharing our challenges and successes is so empowering!”

The group met for the first time on February 10 in Steinbach for a brainstorming

session. “We had really nice time to connect and share with one another about who we are and what we offer others. We also took a bit of time to explore what we are looking for in the group,” said McNaughton.”

She added that it was great to see the members exchanging business cards and offering encouragement to each other. “Such a short period of time and so much empowering,” McNaughton added. “This is what it is all about. Together we can build one another up and this will build our financial income too!”

The next meeting is on March 10 at 9:30 am at Smitty’s in Steinbach. There will also be a mini educational seminar on “Embracing Self Care”.

“We invite women business owners to come out to our next meeting and tell us what you do and how you are changing lives!” McNaughton encouraged. “Then we can do some networking for you. And you will hear about what we do and do the same for us. It is really pretty simple and so much fun!”

To RSVP email contact@nancymcnaughton. com to register.

Business Scam Alert Steinbach RCMP is advising restaurant owners to be careful with taking orders by email.

Police received information that possibly multiple restaurants in Steinbach were the target of a recent scam. If you receive an order by email and a request to send out money, please do not reply. Instead, con-

tact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888495-8501.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Steinbach Recruiting Storm Watchers

By Marianne Curtis Manitoba is still buried in snow, but the City of Steinbach is looking towards summer by putting out a call for volunteers interested in participating in the community’s storm watcher program.

The City’s Storm Ready Team is looking for additional volunteers to act as weather spotters for the coming storm season. As spotters, volunteers become the community’s eye on the sky for severe weather, such as tornados.

Denis Vassart, Steinbach’s Emergency Planning Coordinator said the team is seeking up to six volunteers to act as weather spotters. Spotters must be residents of Steinbach or live within a 10 km radius of the city.

Each team consists of four members and is “on call” for one week per month during the months of May through September. Volunteers are

provided training by Environment Canada as well as guidelines on how to report a sighting.

When they are needed, volunteers are notified and asked to watch the sky for signs of severe weather developing. They then contact the Emergency Operations Team and Environment Canada to report it. Spotters also play a significant role should a tornado touch down by conducting a preliminary evaluation and report it so that a plan of action can be made and the public informed.

The storm watching team is active from April 30 to September 24 but the team is expected to start training in the next few weeks.

Anyone interested in volunteering can call the City of Steinbach’s Emergency Planning Coordinator, Denis Vassart, at 204-392-5996 or dvassart@steinbach.ca.

March 2017

New Entrance Opens at Bethesda Hospital

By Marianne Curtis If the third time is the charm, the new entrance to the Bethesda Regional Health Centre should last for decades.

On February 6, Southern Health officially celebrated the completion of the project, which had become a contentious access issue. The entrance was closed last March, after a year of complaints by people having challenges trying to access the region’s largest hospital. The previous entrance was especially challenging for those with disabilities.

The new entrance has direct ground level access to the site at both the emergency department and

the main entrances of the Bethesda Regional Health Centre. It provides ease of patient and visitor movement into and throughout the building. The health authority partnered with Manitoba Health, Healthy Living and Seniors to complete the project.

The new entrance adds about 2,045 square feet to the facility and includes a new full-sized, pass-through elevator at the main entrance, enclosed stairs with an enclosed waiting space as well as an enclosed walkway link between the emergency department and the main hospital entrance. It also has an external canopy for weather protection during drop-off and pick-up

of patients, and signage and security improvements.

The ribbon cutting was held as part of celebrating the grand opening of the expanded Bethesda Emergency Room. “The ER has been a long term need for the community,” said Goertzen. “Everyone who has used the ER in Steinbach for the last number of years knew that it was crowded, that there was not much privacy, and that staff who was working there had a difficult time working in that environment.”

The expanded emergency room has been open for about two years, but Southern Health did not host celebration until now.

Brazen Cell Phone Snatcher On January 27 at approximately 1 pm, a cell phone was stolen off a table in the dining room of a local restaurant in the City of Steinbach.

Steinbach RCMP is seeking the public’s help in identifying a person captured on video and of interest in the matter. From the video, the male subject is described as balding, with a full beard, wearing a Winnipeg Jets shirt and glasses.

If you have any information in regards to the above theft 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).

Mobility Walker Stolen from Senior On or about January 24 a blue walker was taken from the front entrance of a residence in the Elmdale Avenue area in Steinbach.

An elderly person on a fixed income is dependent on the walker just to remain mobile, assist with shopping and pick up medication.

If you or anybody knows of the location of this item please contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment so that it can quickly be returned to the owner.

If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

An example of what the stolen walker looks like, but not exact.

The ribbon is cut to declare that the front entrance of the Bethesda Regional Health Care Facility is reopened.

March 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Seine River Minor Ball Opens Registration Families looking to register their youngsters into baseball are encouraged to take advantage of early bird pricing and registration.

According to Cindy Neil, publicity director for Seine River Minor Ball, “We really would like families to have an opportunity to register before March 12 so that families can take advantage of our huge early bird registration discounts!” Neil said. “Baseball and softball registrations are steadily increasing and we appreciate your support in helping us reach members of the communities we serve.”

Seine River Minor Ball serves the communities of Ile Des Chenes, Grande Pointe, St. Adolphe, and Lorette.

Parents taking advantage of early bird registration will save $40 off their annual baseball fees until March 12. Regular season registration fees range from $125 to $175. The only level not participating in the early bird discount is the Learn to Play program.

If you have any questions or require more information, visit the Seine River Minor Baseball website at srmb.ca or email cindy@neilnet.net.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Arsonist Torches Recreational Warm Up Hut On Friday January 27 in the RM of Piney by the town of Woodridge on Fireguard 15, an arsonist destroyed a recreational warming hut.

Sprague RCMP is investigated and is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying and locating the individuals responsible for this damage.

If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Sprague RCMP Detachment at 204-437-2041 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Identify this Thief

Police are asking for the public’s assistance in trying to identify a male suspect wanted for questioning.

On February 10, the Steinbach RCMP received a report of a break in to a Main Street business. Entry was gained through the front door early in the morning.

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

Falcon and West Hawk Lake Run Tagged Fish Contest This year the Falcon and West Hawk Chamber of Commerce is running a contest with up to $10,000 available for six tagged fish that will be released in Falcon Lake.

The tagged fish contest starts with the Winter Fish Off on March 18 and continues throughout the year until all the tagged fish are caught.

Entry fee for the tagged fish contest will be $20 and contestants will not be eligible for the tagged fish prizes unless they have purchased a ticket beforehand. However, in order to kick-start the contest, the Chamber of Commerce is giving away free entry in the tagged fish contest to anyone who purchases a second hole or a kids ticket at the Falcon Lake Winter Fish-Off. According to the Chamber and the Fisheries Branch, three Northern Pike will be tagged then released at the derby site, a few weeks before the event. Two will be worth $1,000 and one will be worth $5,000.

“These will be fish local to the derby site so we are expecting one or two of these to be caught on derby day,” said organizers. “We are very excited about this addition to Falcon Lake and the added excitement it will bring to the Winter Fish Off.” To keep things going strong throughout the rest of the year, three Small Mouth Bass will be tagged and released right on the day that the open water season begins. Each tagged Bass will be worth $1,000 each for a total of $10,000 in prizes to be won.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Local Cadets Compete at Provincials

By Marianne Curtis Two Air Cadets from the Stoneybrook Squadron #307 earned the right to represent their squadron at the Provincial Effective Speaking Competition.

In early February, the cadets at Stoneybrook Squadron #307 competed locally in effective speaking, as part of their curriculum. The top contenders earned the right to represent the squadron at the Provincial Effective Speaking Competition, which took place February 12, in Winnipeg.

Amanda White, Vice Chair/Communications Chair of the #307 Stoneybrook Air Cadets Squadron is proud of the cadets for their hard work and dedication. “Congratulations to Warrant Officer 2 Desharnais and Corporal Bjorklund for making it to the Provincial Effective Speaking competition,” said White. “This is some of the amazing benefits and opportunities that Cadets provide for the youth in our area.”

Both cadets were among twenty-two Air Cadets who participated in the 2017 Manitoba Effective Speaking Competition on February 12. The winner of the event would go on to compete nationally.

The competition Gold Medalist was Warrant Officer 2 Cody Lincoln from 249 Squadron, Beausejour. Silver Medalist was Warrant Officer 2 Nicholas Pasieczka of 191 Squadron, Winnipeg and the Bronze Medalist was Flight Sergeant Sayge Tremblay from 220 Squadron, Winnipeg. Warrant Officer 2 Lincoln will represent Manitoba in the National Effective Speaking Competition to be held in Winnipeg in June.

The Stoneybrook Squadron #307 has been parading for twelve years. They meet every Thursday evening during the school year at Arborgate school in La Broquerie. The squadron currently consists of 60 kids from the ages of 12 - 18. To find out more, visit their website at 307rcacs.weebly.com or Facebook.

Warrant Officer 2 Desharnais (left) and Corporal Bjorklund (right) earned the right to represent the Stoneybrook Squadron #307 at the Provincial Effective Speaking Competition.

Piney Seeks Emergency Coordinator The RM of Piney is looking for someone interested in a paid volunteer position as Emergency Coordinator for the municipality.

Applicants should possess experience in command structure, day-to-day leadership, working with the public, and the ability to work in stressful situations.

For more information or to submit an application for the Emergency Coordinator position, please contact the RM at 204-437-2284 or by email at office@ rmofpiney.mb.ca.

March 2017

Twin Kennedy to Perform at SRSS They may be small town girls, but Twin Kennedy, comprised of West Coast twin sisters Carli and Julie Kennedy, have been making music together since they could talk.

The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) presents Twin Kennedy in an evening of “classic to country” music featuring vocals, violin and guitar on Sunday, March 5, starting at7:30 pm in the SRSS Theatre. Tickets are available a SAC or online at $18 for adults, $12 for students and $6 for Music Students.

Born and raised in the

small town of Powell River, BC, the duo grew up perfecting their sibling harmonies and dynamic live performances. Growing up in a musically infused family, it is no wonder that these sisters crafted their sound through a unique fusion of their background in country, folk, jazz and classical music. With Carli on vocals and guitar, and Julie on vocals and violin, these petite powerhouses will fill your soul with joy and warmth through their seamless harmonies and heartfelt song writing. No bond compares to that of sisters, and the same is to be said about the blend of their kindred voices.

With ten BCCMA Award nominations since 2012, Carli and

Julie have been a highly recognized duo throughout the West Coast music community. Most recently, Twin Kennedy was nominated for Roots/Canadiana Group of the Year at the 2016 BCCMAs. When they are not touring from

town to town on the Trans Canada, Twin Kennedy is often found writing and performing with Music City’s best. They currently split their time between their homes in Victoria, BC and Nashville, TN. For more information on Twin Kennedy, visit twinkennedy.com.

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March 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Rescuing Unclaimed Tax Credits The 2016 Personal Income Tax season is underway!

I look forward to helping our clients get their taxes done on time, as complete, and as accurate as possible. My goal is to make sure you receive the largest refund as legally possible or have you pay the least amount you should. Now and in the future.

I admit I really look forward to meeting new clients to see how I can help them with their current and previous taxes. I’m looking for credits that were not

claimed because the taxpayer didn’t know. You do not know what you do not know!

“He that knows not, and knows not that he knows not is a fool. He that knows not, and knows that he knows not is a pupil. He that knows, and knows not that he knows is asleep.

He that knows, and knows that he knows is a teacher.” (Arabic proverb) You can be my pupil let me be your teacher.

A few months ago, I gave a flyer to every resident in one of the retirement homes I attend regularly during the year. I wanted the residents to at least come and talk with me so I can see if they have any unclaimed tax credits that needed rescuing.

Success! During the past few months, I met with several clients and every single one of them had credits that were not claimed in the past. These new clients live in a Se-

nior Assisted Residence in Winnipeg. Part of their rent includes payment for meals and housekeeping. The cost of the wages to the staff that provide these services is considered a medical expense called Attendant Care and can be included on their taxes.

After asking how long they had been living there and asking to review the years they lived there, we determined they have missed out on the Attendant Care expenses. Most of them are saving up to $2,500 per year. Yes, that is a refund to their bank account for every year.

I have gained some new fans at this Senior’s home in Winnipeg just by rescuing some unclaimed credits.

How do these credits get missed by their previous tax preparers? Some of them were family members that did not know.

But for some of them, their taxes were professionally prepared by accountants or other tax service businesses (fools or asleep?)

Attendant Care as a medical expense is not well understood or known. I make it

Dawson Trail Dispatch

my business to know about all tax credits that taxpayers can legally claim. That’s what professional tax professionals that focus on their clients do. I ask lots of questions. I don’t just “enter your information into the tax software”.

Canada Revenue Agency does not know your situation and cannot know what credits you may qualify for.

They are not the ones to advise you.

Let me be your teacher, you can be my pupil.

Another example is the Manitoba Graduate’s Tuition Tax Rebate. At the end of February, I met a new client at my satellite office in Lorette. I completed her basic taxes, which included two T4s. After she had left, I reviewed her tax information she has with Canada Revenue Agency (she authorized me to do so). I could see that she had been a student and claimed the tuition credits, but I didn’t see that she had claimed the Manitoba tuition rebate.

I confirmed with her that she did indeed graduate and explained the rebates she had been missing. Can I say I have another fan? Once I receive from her a copy of her degree and copies of her tuition receipts, we will be adjusting her taxes from 2013 to 2016 to get back the tuition rebate that was unclaimed. Rescued more tax credits!

The Disability Tax Credit is another credit that has often been missed. Since 2004 when I started filing tax returns for clients, I have handed out hundreds of disability tax credit applications for clients to have their doctor’s complete. Many people have been saving hundreds or thousands of dollars over the years.

Do you have tax credits that need rescuing? Or maybe someone you love? Your parents? Call me and let’s see what we can find. Seniors, students and those with impairments are the ones I can help the most.

We rescue unclaimed tax credits!

Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and Certified Financial Planner; living, working, and volunteering in our community. Contact her at 204-422-6631 or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Co-op) or Info@SteAnneTaxService.ca.

Search for Vehicle Vandals

On or about January 8 between 2 and 10:30 am, a vehicle was vandalized on Home Street in Steinbach.

The vehicle was severely damaged, and had purple spray paint put all over the vehicle.

If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2017

11

Lorette Winter Carnival Raises Funds for New Complex

The Rick Smits Band was a huge hit at the Lorette for the Complexe Communautaire de Lorette Community Complex winter carnival.

Photo By Marianne Curtis

Micky E. Moose paid a visit to Lorette.

For four days, the Complexe Communautaire de Lorette Community Complex (CCLCC) was the place to be when the community hosted the 51st annual Lorette Winter Carnival.

This year, the CCLCC joined forces with the new complex fundraising committee to make the Winter Carnival a fun-filled fundraising event for the community. All proceeds from the Winter Carnival will go towards the new complex.

“There is a lot of anticipation in our community with the prospect of seeing a new community complex being built,” stated CCLCC President Colleen Jolicoeur. “Our community will certainly benefit from a second ice surface, a new library and another day care. We hope that everyone will show their support for the fundraising campaigns that are happening to help raise money for the new complex.”

The Carnival began with a cribbage tournament on February

2 that drew in families to the community’s only recreation complex for four days of family friendly activities.

After opening ceremonies took place on Friday night the arena and curling club was bustling with activity during Ringette, Hockey and Sponge Tournaments. The Ricky Smits Band was also a huge hit Friday night.

There was also curling, ice skating, arm wrestling, snow painting, sleigh rides and a community pancake breakfast.

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March 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Vita Athlete named Tri-Star A grade 12 student from the Shevchenko School in Vita has become the most recent athlete from the southeast to be named as Tire Recycle Rural High School Athlete of the Week.

On February 21, Brayden Kantimer of the Shevchenko Sabres basketball team became the fourth local student to earn this honour during the 2016-2017 school year.

The 6’3” centre led the Sabres to a 3rd place finish at the Mennonite Collegiate tournament in Gretna and a 1st place win in the Roseau Valley Tournament in Dominion City. At both tournaments, he was named player of the game and received a tournament All-Star at the Roseau Valley tournament.

“Brayden is a great team player to coach,” said Coach Yanni Sanchez. “He’s not only respectful to his coaches but to his fellow teammates along with having a good sense of humor. He always works hard to be the best that he can be.”

Overall, Kantimer is averaging 25 points a game this season. When not on the court, he maintains a 75%

Brayden Kantimer from the Shevchenko Sabres basketball team.

academic average, while also participating in baseball.

Kantimer is the second Vita athlete to receive Tri-Star Athlete recognition this school year. Sheradin Ascoli was recognized for her skills as a member of the girls Shevchenko Sabres basketball team last month.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Buffalo Point Golfer Launches Book

By Marianne Curtis

ers advice about both the mental and physical aspect of the game that people can tailor to their own games.”

We Play Golf is the result of an independent professional project that students participated in at Red River College’s Creative Communications program.

“Some students organized events, some created short documentaries, I decided to write a book because it’s

something I’ve always wanted to do,” Lasuik recalled. “Golf is a game like no other. I played many sports growing up, but none taught me as much about myself and about life as golf did.” Lasuik added that she wanted to share advice she learned during her time as a competitive golfer.

We Play Golf is available by visiting the author’s website at stefanielasuik.squarespace.com.

A Buffalo Point author is hoping that her debut title will help average golfers get into the game while they enjoy the unique beauty and the frustration of golf.

On February 25, twenty-one year old Stefanie Lasuik celebrated the launch of We Play Golf at a special event in Buffalo Point. Lasuik admits that in a sport dominated mostly by middle-aged men, it is unusual for a young female to publish a book about golf.

“I think my viewpoint adds a different perspective to the existing golf literature,” Lasuik said. “Yet I don’t write about the game only for female golfers; my book is for all amateur golfers.”

In We Play Golf, Lasuik tries to define what golf actually is and what it can do for golfers. “I tried to fill a gap in golf literature, which seems to consist of how-to manuals and historical stories. The book explores both the beauty and frustration of this unique game, which teaches us some of life’s toughest lessons,” she continued.

She said the book shows readers the value of golf, whether they are new to the sport or thinking about giving up on it and whether they have been doing it for 20 years but have not appreciated it as much as they should.

“Amateur golfers often receive advice they can’t use; it doesn’t fit their body type, ability, or mental- Twenty-one year old golfer Stefanie Lasuik from Buffalo Point is celebrating the release of her ity. My book gives average golf- first book We Play Golf.

Ile des Chenes Cobras Score Big

By Marianne Curtis

members and the Ile des Chenes School provides much needed practice space.”

While the team is relatively new, they are already making waves in the cheerleading community. The Ile des Chenes Cobras recently won their division at the 2017 Double or Nothing Cheer Competition, which was an MCF sanctioned event. The girls also participated in the Manitoba Association of Cheer Stunt Camp learning advance lifts to try out in future competitions, including Cheerfest, Provincials and The

Best of the West Cheer competition in Regina.

Douglas said the team hopes to continue to grow by adding new team members and by expanding into the high school level as the students’ age out. “Fundraising will have to take place for new mats and training equipment to safely advance their skills, along with increasing coaching staff to accommodate more students,” she added.

For more information or to join the team email idc.cobras.cheer@ gmail.com.

Fourteen girls from Ile des Chenes and Lorette recently claimed a big win when the Ile des Chenes Cobra cheer team won their division at the 2017 Double or Nothing Cheer Competition.

The Ile des Chenes Cobra’s started in the spring 2015 with students from the community, according to spokesperson Laura Douglas. Under the leadership of coaches Angela Reina, and Shelby Gasper the girls are shaking things up. “It’s a relatively new team, that is spearheaded totally by two great ladies who have volunteered many hours to make this team the success that they are,” Douglas explained.

“The team performed two demo Pom routines,” Douglas recalled.

“It was so much fun the older students were teaching routines to the younger students during recess.”

At the start of the next school year, the team expanded to include grades 3 - 8 students from Ile des Chenes and Lorette. Now the team consists of 14 girls from Seine River School Division including one from La Salle. Current members are female, but boys are welcome to join. “[Cheerleading] provides a vehicle for students to challenge themselves both physically and mentally by remembering and performing stunt work in a competitive setting,” said Douglas. The Ile des Chenes Cobra Cheer team is all smiles after they won their division at the 2017 “The team is fully funded by its Double or Nothing Cheer Competition.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2017

13

Stories of Transformation Take to the Stage This month Eden Foundation is hosting a Dessert Night fundraiser in Steinbach where mental health stories will be brought to the stage.

On March 16, Playback Theatre will bring to life stories from a number of people who are on a mental health journey. Red Threads of Peace Playback is a Winnipeg-based playback theatre project, the only one of its kind in Manitoba by merging artistry, social justice, and community building.

Playback Theatre is a form of improvisational theatre that starts with listening deeply to people’s stories and then transforming them spontaneously on stage. It is especially powerful in honouring the voices of people from marginalized communities and in helping to build understanding across differences. “The basic idea of Playback Theatre is very simple. One is the idea that you, your personal experience, is worthy of this kind of attention,” explained Playback Co-founder Jo Salas. “We are saying that your life is a fit subject for art, that others may find your story interesting, may learn from it, be moved by it. We are saying that story itself is of the profoundest importance, that we need stories to construct meaning in our lives and grows out of the undying need for connection through aesthetic ritual.”

‘Stories of Transformation’ will be presented at the Fellowship Hall in the Steinbach Mennonite Church,

345 Loewen Blvd. in Steinbach on Thursday, March 16. The doors open at 6:30 pm and the event begins at 7 pm. There is no admission charge for the evening but there will be an opportunity to give in support of the work of Eden Health Care Services.

The evening will be set around tables with coffee and dessert being served after the presentation. Since seating is limited, it is recommended that complementary tickets be reserved by emailing katie@edenhealthcare. ca or by calling 204-320-6034.

In addition, Dancing Gabe will present a part of his life’s story. Gabe has become one of the most recognized and adored figures in Winnipeg. People know him as Winnipeg’s Number One Fan. He keeps a very busy schedule and does not miss a Winnipeg Jets hockey game, Blue Bombers football game, or Goldeyes baseball game. He also attends many university sporting events and other community events.

His real name is Gabriel Langlois and he was born in 1963, diagnosed with autism at the age of three, institutionalized at six, and non-verbal until he was ten. He moved back home at eleven and graduated from Glenlawn Collegiate seven years later.

Eden Health Care Services provides a range of services that empower people with mental health needs.

Steinbach and surrounding area services include recovery of hope with

professional counselling available to individuals and families, housing at Penfeld Court, comprised of 24 one or two bedroom suites and Wilson Courts, which consists of two buildings of eight suites each. All of the suites are subsidized to accommodate people with limited incomes.

In addition Eden Health runs the Positive Living Program that is community-based and focused on recovery for persons living in the community with the experience of mental illness and the Segue Career Options which is a supportive employment agency aiming to assist eligible individuals who are employment-ready however, are facing challenges and barriers in their job searches to prepare for, obtain and retain competitive employment within their communities.

It’s Southeast Music Festival Time! Until Thursday, March, thousands of participants are involved in music, drama and dance sessions. Let’s celebrate that and attend the sessions to support our up and coming young artists! From Friday, March 3 – Friday, March 10 – come and support Guitar, Strings and Junior Piano sessions at the Arts Centre.

Spring Break Out Camp Celebrating Canada’s 150 Birthday! Don’t Miss The Adrenaline Rush! Ages 5 - 8 and Ages 9 – 12, two camps jam packed with creativity through dance, music, visual arts drama, recreation and more. Camp runs from Monday March 27 – Friday March 31. Don’t miss out on your spot…limited spaces available. Camp Specials - With each registration get a $10 off coupon for Summer Camps AND 2 Free Kids Meals from Salisbury House. Call 204-346-1077 to register today.

Don’t Miss the next Canvas & Cabernet - For Beginners “Lovers Lane in the Rain”. Well, it was quite the hit! And we are going to do it all again. Enjoy creating….and savory appetizers and decadent wine, in a social atmosphere. On Thursday, March 23 at 6:30 pm, limited spaces so get your name on the list.

New Dates Coming - check our website for the creative themes.

We’re pleased to have Gabrielle Doll and Arlene Enns who are accomplished artists instructing at The Steinbach Arts Council, in schools and other communities. For $35, each night includes instruction in a themed environment, all your art supplies, delicious appetizers, and wine.

Experience Painting & Pinot! For more Experienced Artists. On Thursday, March 9 at 6:30 pm, Surrealism Artist of Inspiration: Salvador Dali.

Something new for those artists who are a little more experienced, and ready for more advanced painting challenges. Get out of ‘your box’, try some new techniques…explore the world of creative ‘isms’, instructed by Gabrielle Doll.

Annual Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit. Don’t miss the 19th Annual Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit opening ceremony on Friday, March 17 at 7 pm at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre. Nearly 100 artists will be showcased from around the region! Everyone invited and no admission fee.

SPAC….the Steinbach Performing Arts Centre. This facility will connect so many people from the region with concerts from classical to pop to rock to country music artists, grads, recitals, choir fests, conventions, etc. Huge economic spinoffs for local businesses… funders are

showing positive responses too!

There is lots of excitement in the air. Watch for the upcoming Facebook and website on this community project!

It’s coming! Summer in the City - Applications for performers, artists and vendors are now online– check out the website steinbachartscouncil.ca or summerinthecity.ca. Deadlines: Fri, March 10 & Fri, March 31.

Get your Tickets - Sunday, March 5 featuring Twin Kennedy – Seeing Double, fiddling, guitar and voice!

Fusion Musical Theatre Dance Workshop - Ages 9 - 14 and 15 - 19 on Thursday, March 23 from 7 – 9 pm. Fee $35 or only $20 if you auditioned for Oz. Visual Arts…Register for Spring Digital Photography – Wednesdays, March 1 – Wednesday, May 3.

Acrylic Painting – Tuesday, March 21 – Tuesday, April 18 - Abstract Acrylics, beginners or explore a spring landscape.

Adults - Contemporary Acrylics, Beginner Watercolor and Oil Painting classes.

Zumba - Yes, we partner with XCOMPANY Steinbach. Call us for more details!

Community Programs Cake X-Travaganza Workshop – Saturday, March 18, learn the basics of cake decorating including piping, sculpting, working with fondant, gum paste and more!

NEW! Couples Cooking Workshop.

Lights! Camera! Action!

- Come join our creative team. New Film Making Club – Square 1 Entertainment. Learn all the aspects, new skills and new friends. Come and check it out. Group meets every Tuesday from 7 - 9 pm.

Early Bird! Arts for Tots Preschool Program - Early Fall Registration starts Saturday, April 1.

Parents love our Arts focus!

Ages 3 - 5 learn early childhood education through Dance, Theatre, Music, Visual Arts... and Culture! Monday through Thursday, mornings or afternoons.

Save the Date! Friday, May 5 – Get your tickets for the ‘Celebrate the Arts’ Canada 150 Gala Fundraiser.

Enjoy special entertainment, delicious food, an evening of dance and fun!

Volunteers needed for Summer in the City Artist Tent – help the artists, meet the public and have fun!

Calling all musicians for KR Park concerts - Looking for singers, instrumentalists, groups and performers to perform in the park during June -July. Download application forms online. Deadline is Monday, April 6.

14

March 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

C ommunity E vents Friedensfeld St. Patrick Social - On Friday, March 10 beginning at 8 pm in the Community Centre. Music by the Dust Rhinos. Admission by advance tickets $20 each. Contact Charlene Freund 204-381-1835, Kalynda Penner 204-381-1791 or friedensfeldcc@gmail.com.

Whist Drive – On Friday, March 17 beginning at 7:30 pm and Sunday, March 26 starting at 2 pm in the Community Centre.

Contact Irene 204-326-1624.

Perogy Dinner Fundraiser- On Sunday, April 23 starting at noon in the Community Centre. Contact 204-326-2760.

Giroux Bingo - Every Thursday at Giroux Hall. Doors open at 5 pm, Bingo starts at 7 pm. Hall rental information for Socials, weddings, family functions, Meetings and more please call Debbie 204-424-5506 or Mike 204-326-6260.

Grande Pointe Winter Party – On Sunday, March 5 from 12 – 4 pm at Grande Pointe Park, 423 Bernat Rd. Skate to music (if we have ice), play in the park, enjoy a free hot chocolate or coffee. Horse Sleigh Rides $2 from 1 - 3 pm. Special for family of 4 - $20 includes hotdogs, chips, cookies and sleigh ride. If temperature is -27 with the wind chill event will be cancelled.

Play $1 buck-a-puck. Candy scramble and more children’s activities.

Hadashville Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great stress release and have an excellent workout at the same time.

Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or KSTA. academy@gmail.com.

Ile-des-Chênes Spaghetti Dinner – On Friday, March 24 from 5:30 – 9 pm at TransCanada Centre sponsored by the Paroisse Notre-Damede-la-Misericordee. Cost $12, 10 yrs or older.

Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de Santé from Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan, 204-424-5285 or labseinerss@gmail.com.

Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. Cost $10.

Lorette Craft & Story Time – On Saturday, March 4 at the Tache Library, 11 am - English, 1 pm - French. Join us to make St. Patrick slime!

New Horizons Seniors - Play cards, Scrabble and more. Drop in Tuesdays 1 - 5 pm at Foyer Notre Dame Lorette, 12 St. Amant Ave. Contact Iris 204-878-3552.

Ritchot Senior Services Foot Care Clinic - On Wednesdays March 22, April 12, May 3, May 24, June 14, July 5 and July 26 by appointment. To reserve contact Janice 204-8832880. With Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse.

Grief Support Group - On Saturday mornings from April 29 – June 24. Registration deadline Sunday, April 9. To provide education on the grieving and mourning processes to individuals who have lost a loved one. 10-weekly meetings, 2 hrs per week. Group size limited to 6 each. The facilitator is Maryanne Rumancik and we will following the program found in Understanding Your Grief: Ten Essential Touchstones for Finding Hope and Healing Your Heart (book with journal) by Dr. Alan Wolfelt. Suggested donation to cover book costs is $45. Contact Fr. Charles Fillion 204-878- 2221 or Maryanne Rumancik 204-878-3901. Meeting time TBA. Mitchell Senior Centre - Breakfasts on Tuesdays from 8 - 10 am at 130 Ash St.

Ritchot Senior Services Foot Care Clinic - On Monday, March 6, March 27, April 17, May 8, May 29, June 19 and July 10 by appointment. To reserve contact Janice 204-883-2880. With Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse.

Niverville The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club – Meets every Monday at 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to become a better speaker, run meetings that are more effective or develop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Club is the place to start. Contact Sheryl Berglund, Sberglund4@shaw.ca.

Taekwondo – On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 – 8 pm at the Ecole Ile Des Chene School. Cost $40/month, family rates available. Contact Kangs.mb.ca, Master Bill Tam 204296-8217.

GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced the loss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learn about the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to register or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com.

Quantum Dance Academy – Runs to Tuesday, May 23 2017 at 539 Main Street. For students aged 2-18 a variety of dance styles including ballet, hip-hop, jazz, tap and more. The season finishes with a recital at the Pantages Playhouse Theatre.

Contact Lee Miazga at quantumdanceacademy@gmail.com or 204- 880-5178.

Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six.

Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.) Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com.

Parent Child Playgroup - On Wednesdays from 10 am – 12 pm at the School, Rm142. Contact idc.mb.playgroup@ gmail.com.

Paradise Village Paradise Squares Dance Club - On Tuesdays from 7 – 9:30 pm at the Paradise Village Rec. Hall. Modern Square Dancing is fun and a great social activity. Couples and singles are welcome. Contact Larry 204-422-5424.

Story Time in Pyjamas - Every Thursday evening at the Ritchot Library Ecole Regional Gabrielle-Roy at 6:30 pm. Ages 2-8 however all ages are welcome.

Yoga- On Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30 - 7:30 pm at the TransCanada Centre. Cost is $15 per class or 10 classes for $125.

Zumba - On Mondays and Wednesdays, from 7 pm – 8 pm at the TransCanada Centre. 10 classes for $75 or $10 drop in.

Contact sarah.abraham@gmail.com.

50+ Programs - At the Trans Canada Centre Indoor Walking - Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9–10 am Yoga - Monday 10 -11 am Coffee Talk - Wednesday 10 - 11 am Block Therapy - Tuesday 10 - 11 am Water Colour Painting – Thursday 10 - 11:30 am Line Dancing - Thursday 7 - 8 pm Floor Curling - Friday 10 am – 12 pm Contact to register Mary Ann vintageclub@transcanadacentre.com, 204-339-6141.

Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturday of every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn about Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive Blessed Rose Petals and other Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’s place of miracles. Contact Corinna 204878-4908 or email her at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for more info and register.

Kleefeld Community Playgroup - For parents, caregivers and children up to age 5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs and snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the Kleefeld Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013.

La Broquerie Eastman Immigration Services - International Cooking Classes – On the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month in La Broquerie.

Space is limited. Contact to register 204-346-6609 or email lois@eastmanis.com.

Prawda Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondays and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact Wendy 204-348-2433.

Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children.

Snacks provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

Richer Craft and Bake Sale Fundraiser – On Saturday, March 11 from 10 am – 3 pm at the Young at Hearts Community Centre hosted by SouthEast Flower Beds. In support of Think Trees!

Manitoba Forestry Association. Setting Down New Roots! The Manitoba Forestry Association is a Non- Profit, Charitable organization that is dedicated to conservation education in Manitoba. Promoting Manitoba’s forests one tree at a time.

Lots of vendors, crafters and bakers, also a 50/50 draw and a door prize, canteen served by Stacey Pchajek Memorial Foundation.

Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey Pchajek Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating grades 8 and 12.

Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC License # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 or doreen@spmf.ca.

Sarto Ukrainian Dance Club – On Mondays from 7 - 8 pm at the Sarto Hall. Join the Sarto Polevnyi Ukrainian Dance Club for the season! You do not need to be Ukrainian to dance! Boys & girls, ages 3 to adult, no prior experience required! Cost starts at $150/year.

Sprague Sprague & District Historical Museum Inc Dinner & Entertainment – On Saturday, March 4 at 6 pm in the Community Hall. Theme is Honouring Local Veterans (RM of Piney) with a Rainbow auction. Tickets $15 adults, $5 children ages 5 – 10 and under aged 4 is free Tickets available at Carl & Kay’s, Vassar Store, Sprague Hotel or contact 204-437-4686, 204437-2210, or 204-437-2209.

Sprague & District Historical Museum - Open by appointment from June – September 30. Explore life as it was in the early days. Free Admission. Donations Accepted. Contact 204-4372210, 204-437-2209 or 204-437-4686.

St. Adolphe Forever Young Dance Club – On Sunday March 12 from 1 – 5 pm at Club Amical. Music with Mark Morisseau, on Saturday April 8, from 7 – 11 pm, music with Country Pride, on Saturday May 13, from 7 – 11 pm, music with Dennis Nykoliation and Saturday June 10 from 7 -11 pm, music with Small Town Limits. Cost $15 includes lunch. Reservations required contact Rae 204-883-2440 or Denise 204-883-2429.

C.H.I.L.D program – On Wednesdays from 9:30 - 10:30 am at Ecole St. Adolphe School. Children’s introduction to learning and development. Contact sas@srsd.ca or 204-883-2182.

Pickle Ball – On Thursdays from 6 – 7:30 pm hosted by Club Amical at the St. Adolphe school gym. Contact Alma at 204883-2251.

Lunches & Bingo – On Thursdays hosted by Club Amical.

Contact 204-883-2491.

Athena Women’s Beginner Hockey – Contact Bahia Taylor, bahia@envypaintanddesign.com for details and costs.

Badminton Nights - At the school gym on Monday nights between 6 - 8 pm. $2 drop-in is required. Contact yvandupuis@gmail.com.

Ritchot Senior Services – Monday - Thursday from 9 am- 2 pm at 457 Main Street. Contact 204 883-2880 or Ritchotseniors@mymts.net.

Special Guest Speaker: On Tuesday, March 28 at 10 am. Active Living Coalition of Older adults presents - Active Living.

Interactive presentation for older adults to benefit their health.

Participants will receive a handbook to record their commitment and progress at home.

Monthly Activities: Block Therapy - On Wednesday, March 1 from 6 – 7 pm.

Mood Disorders - Monthly Meeting - On Thursday, March 2 at 2:15 pm Art Class - On Monday March 6 and Tuesday, March 14 from 7 – 8 pm.

Alzheimer Touch Quilt Project – Tuesday, March 7 and March 21 from 10 am – 12 pm.

Mindfulness – On Tuesday, March 7 from 7 – 9 pm.

Weekly Activities: Cardio Fit - On Mondays from 9:30 – 10:30 am.

Chair Fit - On Mondays from 11 – 11:40 am.

Yoga - On Wednesdays from 1 – 2 pm.

Muscle Fit - On Thursdays from 9:30- 10:30 am Foot Care Clinic - On Friday, March 24, Tuesday, April 11, Friday May 5, Tuesday, May 23, Friday, June 16, Tuesday July 4 and Friday, July 28 by appointment. To reserve contact Janice 204-883-2880. With Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse.

Weekly Bingo – On Tuesday nights at the St. Adolphe Community Club. Doors open at 6 pm, 6:55 pm - Speedo Game, 7 pm - Early Bird Games, 7:30 pm - Regular Games. We hope to see you there! Proceeds will support the Community Club.

Richer Community Club Chase the Ace! - Every Saturday at the Richer Inn from 5:30 - 7:45 pm. Tickets only $1 each. Jackpot is growing! Door prizes on random Saturdays ranging from glassware to Jets tickets and jerseys! Bud, Spud and Steak Special and more! Check out and like Richer Community Club Facebook page for updates. LGA License #1392RF.

St. Malo Annual Family Hockey Tournament - Please keep the weekend of Thursday, March 16 – Sunday, March 19 open and register your team by Wednesday, March 1 for the 27th annual family hockey tournament at the Arena. Sponsored by St. Malo & District Chamber of Commerce. Contact Rachel or René (204347-5548).

Adult & Teen Challenge Concerned Persons Support Group Join us Thursday evenings at 7 pm, in the Richer Fellowship Church, 50 Southeast Drive. If you have a relationship with someone who has a life-controlling problem, join us for this nine-week Living Free course. Receive encouragement and support in a safe setting, and learn practical ways to best help your loved one. Contact Pastor Ben Funk at 204-326-2254 or phone the church at 204-422-5308.

Get Better Together – Begins Wednesday, April 5 from 1 – 3:30 pm at the Chalet Malouin. Free program model developed by the Patient Education Research Centre at Stanford University coordinated by the Wellness Institute. Visit getbettertogether.ca. Register contact 204-346-6694 or 1-800742-6509.

Richer Recovery AA - Group meets Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Paul at 204-422-7673.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support groups - Meets at Paroisse St-Malo/Blessed Marguerite Catholic Community, #5 St. Malo Street on the last Monday

each month from 7 - 8:30 pm. For persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns. Contact Judy Dunn 204-4445228.

Little Métis - On Wednesdays, from 10 am – noon, Sing with me group for parents/grandparents with children 0 - 5 years old. Crafts, songs, music, story time, healthy snacks, learning the Métis culture. Free. Contact Aline 204-347-5249.

Sponge Puck Hockey – On Wednesdays at 8 pm at the arena.

Come out and play for fun. Contact Gilles 204-347-5079.

St. Pierre-Jolys Step Aerobics with Weights - On Tuesday and Thursday at 7 pm, at the ICSP School Gym. Contact Stephanie 204-3202667, Louise 204-433-3839 or The Health Corner 204-4333891.

Diabetes Educational Resource Centre – On 2nd Thursday of the month from 1:30 - 3:30 pm at the DeSalaberry District Health Centre. Contact 204-346-6254.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression, bipolar, post partum mood disorders support group meetings held on the last Monday of each month at 7 pm at the Chalet Malouin boardroom. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

Ste. Agathe Ritchot Senior Services Foot Care Clinic - On Tuesday, March 14, April 25, June 6, July 18, August 29, October 11 and November 21 by appointment. To reserve contact Janice 204883-2880. With Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse.

Ladies Hockey – At the Arena. All levels welcome, including first timers. Contact cougarsrechockey@gmail.com for more info and costs.

Cougars-Ladies Rec Hockey - Weekly Ice time Sundays at 6:45 – 7:45 pm until March 5, 2017 at the Arena. Cost $150/person per season, 21 ice times or drop in for $10/ice time. Contact cougersrechockey@gmail.com.

Walking/Running Club - A walking and running club held on various weekdays at 7 pm, contact carly.flowers@hotmail. com.

Taekwondo - Every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:15 - 7:30 pm at Ecole Sainte Agathe hosted by Kang’s Taekwondo Academy. Cost $40/month. Family rates available. Contact Jason Barnabe, jason.barnabe@gmail.com or 204-802-3458.

Ste. Anne Soccer Registration - On Tuesday, March 7 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm in the Ste. Anne Collegiate Canteen. Registration forms can be downloaded at soccersainteanne.com.

Volunteer Drive – the Bibliothèque Ste Anne Library is looking for volunteers to help with Ipad/Samsung Tablet instruction for Seniors, Storytime, Adult Bookclub, Teen Bookclub and Shelf Reading. If you have a couple of hours of free time weekly or monthly, the help is always welcome. Contact 204-422-9958 or email steannelib@steannemb.ca and ask for Shannon or Lise. Come in and see all the wonderful books (French, English, Large print, audio and children’s) and magazines as well as a small collection of DVD movies. Give yourself a break, have a coffee and check out our new reading area.

Seine River Services for Seniors – Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15.

Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. Cost $10. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local services or e-mail labseinerss@gmail.com.

Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Centre on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 - 8 pm.

Next one is February 14. A large selection of books in both French and English, for children and adults. Special requests can be made to the librarian, e-mail btl@srsd.ca or 204878-9488 or in person. Come for a visit and see what we are all about.

Steinbach Steinbach & Area Garden Club – On Monday, March 13 at 7 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village. ‘Pollinators in Your Garden More Than Honey Bees’, with Sara Semmler an entomologist, with the Living Prairie Museum. Learn who’s really pollinating your flowers. Available for purchase a video on Pollen Bee Nests. Everyone welcome! Refreshments and door prizes. $5 non-member admission. More info, sagardenclub. com.

Annual Book Faire - From Wednesday, March 22 – Saturday, March 25 at the Clearspring Centre hosted by the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary. Hours: Wednesday - Friday from 9 am to 9 pm; Saturday from 9 am - 4 pm. Come and see the huge selection of used books and puzzles. Proceeds go toward the purchase of equipment for the Bethesda Regional Health facility. Contact Ruth Heppner at 204-326-2911. To volunteer call Verna at 204-326-3028.

Children’s Programs – at the Jake Epp Library - Runs to Wednesday, March 23 from 10 – 11 am or 1:30 - 2:30 pm for 3 -5 years old. Songs, Rhymes, Stories, Crafts and Snacks.

Toddler & Me - Runs Wednesdays, to March 22 from 11 – 11:45 am for 1 & 2 year olds. Songs, Rhymes, Stories, Crafts, Snacks and Literacy Tips.

Baby & Me – Runs Wednesdays to March 22 from 10 – 10:30 am for Birth -12 months. Songs, Rhymes, Stories and Literacy Tips.

Cribbage Night - On March 24 at the Steinbach Legion. Doors open at 6:30 pm. $5 per person.

Classic Movie Night – On Friday, March 24 at 7 pm in the Library. Presenting “Casablanca” rated G. Movie night is the 4th Friday every month. Free admission and free Popcorn! All children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Career Development Sessions – On Tuesday, March 28 from 1:30 - 3:30 pm and 6:30 – 8:30 pm at the Red River College campus. Help in choosing between different careers. Join us for a session and receive tools to help you with this important decision. RSVP steinbach@rrc.ca or call 204-320-2500.

Wildlife in Your Backyard – On Tuesday, March 28 from 7 – 8 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Tickets $3. With Wildlife Haven ambassadors and their handlers learn about birds of prey and the animals that live in our backyards. Limited space available. Advance tickets available to guarantee your spot at the library’s Circ Desk.

Get Better Together – Begins Wednesday, April 5 from 1 – 3:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Free program model developed by the Patient Education Research Centre at Stanford University coordinated by the Wellness Institute. Visit getbettertogether.ca. Register contact 204-346-6694 or 1800-742-6509.

Young Adult Movie Marathon - On Wednesday, March 29 from 10:30 am – 5:45 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Bored on Spring Break? Come to the library for a Divergent Movie Marathon. We’ll be watching Divergent (rated PG), Insurgent (rated PG), and Allegiant (rated PG). Admission and popcorn are free. Bring a bag lunch or $3 for a pizza lunch. No sign up required.

Country Gospel Concert - On Sunday, April 23 at 7 pm at the SRSS theatre. Headliners, Bruce Reimer and the White Stones (Bruce is a former resident of Landmark now living in Alberta). The opening act will be Prairie Joe from Oak Lake.

Tickets $15 each and will be available at whildeb@gmail. com or at the door.

Drop In Book Club – 2nd Tuesday every month at 7 pm in the Jake Epp Library. We’ll post the book for discussion that month and if you’d like to join us please stop by. If you want to start your own book club instead, you can always take advantage of our Book Club collections. No sign up required. Just read the book and come hang out.

Knit-Wits Drop-In Club for Adults - Knit-Wits - Every 4th Monday of the month, from 6 – 9 pm at the Jake Epp Library. This is for anyone interested in fibre handcrafts such as knitting, crocheting, cross-stitch, needlepoint etc. This is not a class but a casual knitting circle for all skill levels. Please bring your own items/supplies.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) – On Wednesdays, from 8:45 - 10:30 am at the Royal Canadian Legion. Cost $2/ week. A weight control support group that helps take off pounds sensibly and keep off pounds sensibly. Contact BettyLou Toews at 326-6397.

Eastman Immigrant Services - Many events and activities to support and help you make new friends. Start to make this community feel like your home. Volunteer to help at our community events.

Let’s Sew - On Tuesday’s from 1:30 – 3:30 pm., Sewing machines provided.

Every Day English All Levels - Every Wednesday 1 – 3 pm.

Reading & Writing – All Levels on Monday and Wednesday from 10 am – 12 pm.

Pronunciation All Levels - On Monday and Wednesday from 7 – 9 pm at D4-284 Reimer Ave. Classes are free.

International Cooking Classes – On the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month in La Broquerie. Space is limited. Contact to register 204-346-6609 or email lois@eastmanis.com.

Eastman Safety Upcoming Programs - Located at 385 Loewen Blvd. Register online at eastmansafety.ca or 204-371-1595.

Mommies Group at Kidzone - On Wednesdays, from 9 am - 1 pm. Come by to meet other moms to chat with and get your kids to make some new friends. Cost $7, free coffee.

Creativi-Tea Time - Need to relax? Every second Wednesday of the month, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library.

Come and go as it suits you. We’ll provide basic supplies; feel free to bring your own. Includes tea and coffee.

Games Day & Games Night – Every 1st Saturday of the month from 12 – 5 pm and the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6 – 8:30 pm, at the Jake Epp Library. Come down to play strategy games. Bring a friend, your strategies and games.

Test your skills and have fun. Ages 14 and up unless accompanied by an adult. Contact 204-326-6841, programs@ jakeepplibrary.com.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Royal Canadian Legion - On 1st Tuesday every month at 8 pm and Ladies Auxiliary meets 1st Monday of each month at 7:30 pm at the Steinbach Legion Community Hall, 294 Lumber Ave. Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the United Church of Steinbach, 541 Main St. Registration for girls 5-17. Develop personal values and well-being, self-respect and respect for others; promote fun, friendship, adventure and challenges through new experiences; develop leadership and decisionmaking skills; give service to the community; value the natural environment.

The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon except when Monday falls on a long weekend at the Chicken Chef, 365 Main Street, visitors are welcome. Contact Cornie at 326-3155.

Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for family and friends of people with mental health issues are held the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden East building, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email eastmanmss@mts.net MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living with multiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursday evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place apartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email nadine.konyk@ mssociety.ca.

MS Lunch Group- On 4th Thursday of every month, from 12 – 1 pm at All D’s Restaurant 320 Main Street. Contact Stephanie Bevacqua 204-988-0904, Stephanie.Bevacqua@mssociety.ca.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support groups - Meets on the first Tuesday of each month from 1:30 – 3 pm at The Eden East Office, 21 Loewen Blvd For persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

The Bethesda Regional Healthcare Auxiliary - meets on the first Tuesday of every month except for the months of July and August at the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone interested in auxiliary work. Contact Verna Thiessen at 3263028.

Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at the Magnolia Restaurant. Contact 204-326-2313.

Carillon Toastmasters - Meetings open to adults who want to improve their leadership and communication skills. Thursdays at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, Contact Sheryl at 204-326-7628 or Irene at 204-4245737.

Al-Anon Program – Meets on Mondays at 7:30 pm at the Cultural Arts Centre back door, downstairs. Contact Lloyd 204326-4365.

Al-Anon 12 Step Recovery Group - Meets on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm at United Church, 541 Main St, front door, ring doorbell. All are welcome.

Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group starts at 4:30 pm at Steinbach Family Resource Centre B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact 204-346-0413.

Woodridge Get Better Together – Begins Wednesday, April 5 from 1 – 3:30 pm at the Community Hall. Free program model developed by the Patient Education Research Centre at Stanford University coordinated by the Wellness Institute. Visit getbettertogether.ca. Register contact 204-346-6694 or 1-800742-6509.

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2017

15

Niverville-Made Energy Bar Makes Oscar Appearance

By Marianne Curtis An energy bar created by a Niverville Entrepreneur will make a special appearance during this year’s Oscars.

Colleen Dyck is thrilled that her creation GORP Energy bars were handed out to attendees of the 2017 Academy Awards in the celebrity luxury-gifting suite.

Dyck said she is extremely excited and hopes the event will raise the profile of GORP. Over 150 celebrities attending the Academy Awards arrived at the Luxury Gifting Suite on Saturday to taste the locally made energy bars.

“I’m honoured to be a part of showcasing amazing local Canadian products at the Academy Awards!” exclaimed an excited Dyck. “Our hope is to gain more exposure in the United States, as we recently launched sales there.”

The company sells its products across Canada but is still trying to break into the US market. “GORP started as a need in my own life for a convenient source of whole food,” explained Dyck. “It then morphed into a passion to infuse adventure in my life, which turned into a desire to inspire others on their individual journeys to find health, adventure and purpose.”

While the GORP Clean Energy Bar is yet to take off south of the border, locally they are growing in leaps and bounds. Customers include the Winnipeg Jets hockey team, and Toronto Maple Leafs, along with Olympic athlete Raphael Gagne.

GORP Clean Energy Bar is an all-natural energy bar made on the family farm on the Prairies. They are packed full of local super-star ingredients and contain no artificial sugars or preservatives. Each batch is rolled out by hand by the GORP team, and uses an exceptional high quality plant based protein.

Dyck and Chef Peter Fehr from Gourmet Inspirations in Winnipeg were the only two Made in Manitoba products presented at the event.

Colleen Dyck from GORP Energy bars and Peter Fehr of Gourmet Inspirations were the only two Made in Manitoba products presented at the 2017 Academy Awards Luxury Gifting Suite.

Sprucing it Up Vintage Sled Races Highlight of Blumenort Winter Fair Despite it being a rainy day, the Blumenort Family Fun Day saw many people come out to enjoy a host of activities at the Blumenort Community Park.

On February 20, the Blumenort Rec Committee hosted the day, which including events such as sleigh rides to quad and tube rides. The highlight of the day was the vintage sled races.

The Mobile Clinic – Is onsite on the third Thursday of every month from 9 am – 4 pm at the Community Club. Contact for appointments 1-855-644-3515 or southernhealth.ca.

General Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- On Tuesdays, March 14, April 11 and May 9 from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Begins at 8:30 am, pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village. Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cash giveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from the casinos for those wishing to play. Bi-monthly overnight trips to South Beach Casino are also available, amazing prices on these trips so call for details. Contact Marilyn at 204326-4939 for information and reserve a seat.

Please submit your local club or community events each month by emailing a short notice to: editor@dawsontrail.ca Vintage snowmobiles race at Blumenort.

Recently, my wife and I started working on sprucing up a couple of rooms in our house.

At the moment, the kitchen and the dining room are the focus of our attention. Not planning on anything too crazy, we just planned to give them some fresh paint, some new curtains and maybe a new piece of furniture. The funny thing about taking the first steps towards painting is not that you can just paint. Sadly, for us it involves a bit more work than that. You see, we have children.

Now I’m not saying that the children are causing all the extra work but I do believe that I was not the one to make that small dent in the drywall near the top of the wall. I also don’t think that I caused the scratches in the drywall about two feet above the floor. I do know for a fact that the spot of paint that is chipped away at the small gash was neither me nor my wife, it was from one of our children who, in their excitement, tossed a Hot Wheels and it struck that spot. Sure, I probably caused a few of the scratches moving in furniture but definitely not all of them.

It’s funny how you look at a wall or ceiling from a distance and it all looks good but put your face a foot or so from it and every bump, nick and scrape becomes readily apparent. Having picked up a pail of drywall mud from the hardware store we are now in the process of filling in all those little spots.

When we started, it didn’t look like too many spots but as we worked, we couldn’t help but find more and more until our walls now possess a polka-dot pattern.

After we give the drywall mud a good sanding and apply the fresh paint, it will make it all look a million times better.

Of course, that is until the Hot Wheels, toy balls, Nerf shots and other miscellaneous objects are propelled into the walls.

After all that, well, it’ll still be better than it was... after all, it’s our home.

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

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March 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

The Grace of the Gospel Many religious people talk about the gospel, but do we really understand what the true gospel is for today? The word ‘Gospel’ means “good news”.

The Bible contains the “good news” for everyone but it seems that every religious group has their own idea of what the gospel is. So what does the Bible say about the gospel?

In I Corinthians 15:1-4, the apostle Paul says, “I declare unto you the gospel.” He says the gospel is the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. This passage says if we receive and believe that Christ did this “for our sins”, then we will be saved (have your sins forgiven and become a Christian).

So how do we believe and receive the message of this gospel so we can be saved? Ephesians 2:8&9 says, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” If we come to God in faith (you don’t have to understand the whole process, just that Christ died for you and wants to forgive and save you for eternity), then “by grace” God does the rest.

In Galatians 1:6 this gospel is called, “The grace of Christ.”

None of us deserve or can earn salvation. It is all given by God’s grace to, “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord.” (Romans 10:13) The Bible gives us a warning about what people will try to do with God’s Gospel of grace. Galatians 1:7 says, “There be some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel of Christ.” Some say you must give up…to come to God. Others say you must be baptized or join their church. Some think you have to dress differently and be at church every Sunday.

A severe warning is given in verses 8 and 9 regarding anyone who changes God’s gospel. He says they will be accursed.

This is a severe punishment and judgment of God. When a person accepts the gospel of God’s grace, God forgives them and gives them freedom from the bondage of sin. Galatians 5:1 says, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free.” Don’t let anyone deceive you into thinking there is more to receiving salvation than what the Bible clearly has just shown you. If you do, then it will put you back in bondage and you sure don’t want that. II Corinthians 3:17 says, “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.”

Once you are saved, now let that Spirit of the Lord speak to you personally and He will help you change what He thinks needs to be changed, when He thinks it needs to be changed.

This is a continuous life long process but it’s not bondage because you will want to change and God will help you in every area of life to effect that change. Christ told His disciples in Matthew 11:30, “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Have you trusted the “good news” of the gospel, of the grace of Christ yet? Don’t put it off too long. Christ is waiting for you!

RCMP Look for Stolen Snowmobile

On January 27 Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen snowmobile described as a 2010 Polaris 800 Dragon IQ with Manitoba plate 9H294. The theft occurred between January 26 at 11 pm and January 27 at 7 am in the High Point area in Steinbach.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2017

17

Who Do We Pray For?

Please refer to each church’s website (if listed) for detailed information on weekly services and special events.

MKL Global Trade Reports Break In On February 10, Steinbach RCMP received a report of break in at a local business on Highway 52 west. Entry was gained thought the front door early in the morning or overnight. Police are asking for the public’s assistance in trying to solve this crime.

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

John 17:9-11… 9) I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours.

10) All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them. 11) I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one. (NIV) There is an old saying, “Those who pray within their homes, surround them with a wall that is stronger than iron.” Have we ever asked ourselves the question ... why is it important to pray? Well, first, prayer is important because it changes attitudes. It removes the mysteries that so many folks struggle with. It opens our minds so that we may know what is right and what is wrong. But there is another point we must explore… prayer quiets our fears and calms our nerves. How many times have we prayed out of fear of the unknown?

How many times have we prayed because we were hopelessly at an end? How many times have we prayed… to do otherwise would have caused us to give up. We may come to prayer distressed and anxious but, when we give our worries to the Lord, we come away carefree and confident. Prayer is after all making deliberate contact with God in word or in thought. It pries us from our seats, as we become co-workers with God in matters of future events.

When we pray, we spend time in his presence. His thoughts gradually become our thoughts and reshape our attitudes.

Prayer changes the way we think. Our thoughts will go beyond our own selfish nature as we open our mind for Christ to speak to us privately. Prayer must never be an attempt to bend the will of God to our sinful desires… prayer ought always to be an attempt to submit our will to the will of God. Prayer transfers our burden. Who in his right mind would say, or even think about hanging unto all the heavy burdens that life brings? We have enough to think about without that enormous load of guilt and disobedience and whatever other nonsense we sometimes work around. Jesus says, “I’ll take the load we have been carrying and shift it to my shoulders, for you see, my shoulders are able to carry the heaviness.”

We cannot forget to mention this one more point… prayer upholds others in need. Most of us have heard the saying that others need to learn to pray for themselves so that they can better overcome life’s problems. True, however, Jesus prayed for others!

Prayers have helped you and me to find victory. We know that they were not our prayers only, but the prayers of many others. Prayer is the way we help bear one another’s burden.

Intercession occurs when we earnestly labour in prayer for others. There are times when it involves great emotional and spiritual labour to take the burdens of another person into the very presence of the Lord.

Philippians 4:4-7… 4) Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5) Let your gentleness be evident to all.

The Lord is near. 6) Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7) And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (NIV) These few Scripture verses encourage us to be full of the joy of the Lord. We must strive to be considerate and gentle in all that we do. Remembering that the Lord is coming soon. We are not to worry about anything; instead, we are to pray about everything, I mean everything! Telling God our needs... not our wants... and we must not forget to thank Him for His answers. If we do this, we will know God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. God’s peace will keep our thoughts and our hearts quiet and at rest as we put our trust in Christ Jesus… To God Be the Glory.

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

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March 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Tips For Surviving Pat Porter Active Living Centre offers programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for mature adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come and pay us a visit and consider participating in some of our programs.

Rentals and Functions: We can accommodate the following but are not limited to Weddings, Anniversaries, Birthdays, Banquets, Conferences, Family Gatherings and More! Call Lynda at 204-3204603 for more information.

Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteer with us – We could use volunteers in many different areas.

Whatever your skill set or age we have a place for you. Whether you can volunteer for an hour a month, week or day or several hours we can accommodate you with tasks.

We are in need of Reception/Clerical duties and Cleaning duties. Call Lynda at 204-320-4603 for more information.

Special Events: On Tuesday, March 21, from 1 – 4 pm – Cooking Class – “Healthy Heart”. My Health Team will be here to do another appetizing food class! Fee is $5 per person. Please register by Tuesday, March 14 to be included in this group. Call 204320-4600.

On Thursday, March 30, from 10 am – Noon – Ask the Pharmacist!

We have a very informative workshop that will be presented by Hans B. Epp, RPh, Pharmacist/Owner of Shoppers Drug Mart (Steinbach).

This workshop will give a preview of the Newly Expanded Role of Pharmacists in today’s Healthcare environment, in addition to the TOP 10 Questions to ask you Pharmacist and the TOP 10 Reasons why you should. Free Workshop but please call 204-320-4600 to register by Friday, March 24.

Regular Activities: Make sure to check out our quarterly Newsletter.

All Programs have a fee of $2 to participate.

- Choir: On Wednesdays 10 – 11:30 am. Everyone welcomed. Choir Director is Lin Wiebe.

- Dancing Shoes: On Tuesdays 7 - 9 pm. Practice your dancing moves.

Bring your dancing music and join others.

- Chess + Other board games: NEW TIME on Tuesdays 1- 4 pm.

- Fun Bingo: On the 3rd Thursday of each month from 10 – 11 am. No Cash prizes – fun prizes are offered.

- Movie Time: On the 4th Monday of each month from 1 - 4 pm.

- Drop in Billiards: Monday - Friday from 9 am – 4 pm.

- Computer Classes: On Wednesdays from 9 - 1 pm. Call 204-3204600 to book an appointment.

- Cards: Monday – Canasta; Tuesday – Bridge (new time); Wednesday - Cribbage; Thursday – Whist.

All card games are from 1pm–4pm.

- Pickleball: Monday, Thursday and Fridays from 9 am – Noon and Tuesdays from 9 – 10:30 am.

- Fitness Class: On Tuesday from 10:45 – 11:45 am. Everyone welcome. Call Lynda at 204-320-4603 for more details. (Instructors are from Eastman Therapy Centre).

- Floor Curling/Floor Shuffle: On Wednesdays from 1:30 – 4 pm.

- Old Time Country Jam: On Wednesdays from 7 – 9 pm.

- Ho Model Railway Project: Monday - Friday from 9 am – 4 pm.

Free Programs: - Crafty Corner: Every Friday from 2 - 4 pm. Bring your craft (anything goes – knitting, scrapbooking, woodwork, etc) and have some good conversation, coffee and share in learning from each other. Special guests and activities once a month.

- Cozy Corner Coffee Time: At 10:30 am, every morning for free coffee, tea, and a cookie. Meet new people and staff in a friendly and inviting atmosphere.

Other Programs/Services Provided: - Noon Meals: Available Monday through Friday. Cost $6. Come join us for lunch. Call Deb at 204-3204605 the day before or by 9 am that day to reserve your meal.

- Tai Chi: Monday evening at 7 pm and Wednesday morning at 10 am.

- Foot Care Clinic: Foot care is available the first Tuesday and Wednesday of every month and the third Tuesday and Thursday of every month. Call Reception Desk at 204-320-4600 to book your appointment.

- Beltone Hearing Clinic: 3rd Friday of the month. Call 1-800-661-2653 to book your appointment.

For more information on our programs, activities or volunteer opportunities, drop by the Centre Monday to Friday from 8:30 am - 4 pm or call reception desk at 204-320-4600 or Lynda at 204-320-4603.

Visit our website at patporteralc.com

Hunt is on for Stolen Truck

On February 4, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen 2014 Grey Mitsubishi Outlander with Manitoba Licence plate HAR 105. The theft occurred between 12:30 and 7 am, February 4 on Deerfield Drive in Steinbach.

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

MARCH BREAK

How to Survive March Break While Staying Home Staying home for March Break and looking to fill your holiday full of fun activities? These creative ideas for enjoying time in your own town or city are sure to keep kids and adults alike happy.

1. Explore local popular and hidden treasures. Check out classics like tourist attractions, local museums, and parks and green (or snowy white) areas off the beaten path. Natural spaces are free, and a simple online search of free March Break activities will reveal lots of fun programs and ideas in your town or city that never crossed your mind. If you live near a National Park or National Historic Site be sure to visit in 2017 because entrance is free in honour of Canada’s 150th birthday.

2. Keep it fun at home. Staying home doesn’t have to be boring. Search for easy DIY craft projects on Pinterest, break out the board games, or plan a movie night complete with popcorn and snacks. As long as the little ones have activities to do, they’ll enjoy being inside or outside.

3. Spend time with the kids, not errands. No child wants to tag along while you go to the bank, and no adult wants to have to do errands during a break from the daily grind. Start getting your government payments by direct deposit — including your Canada Child Benefit, GST/HST credit and other tax-related payments — and have more time to do fun things with your kids. Sign up by visiting your financial institution or go to directdeposit.gc.ca for more information.

(News Canada)

Talk to Your Kids About Online Privacy Virtual gaming, social networking and online forums are an essential part of a child’s life as they surf, post, play and learn. Yet many children don’t understand some of the potential privacy pitfalls of these activities.

Rather than imposing strict rules or blocking access, experts advise that parents talk to their children about online privacy. Use these strategies to kick-start the conversation with your kids and help them make smart choices: - Know the programs and services your children use. Make it a habit to talk to your kids about what they’re doing online. Try out their favourite games, create a profile on their social networking sites, and download the music they love. You’ll get a better understanding of what personal information they’re sharing.

- Teach your children their personal information is valuable. Kids need to know that many people and companies want their personal information to sell or market products. Talk with your child about the personal information they share to play online games, fill out an online quiz or shop online. Together you can discuss ways to limit the amount of personal information shared by completing only required fields, using pseudonyms and using incomplete information.

- Remind your kids to think before they click. It only takes a second to post a comment or photo on the internet, but it’s nearly impossible to delete it. Remind your children to think twice about every piece of personal information they post online and ask that they only share items they would be comfortable with the whole world seeing.

- Be there for them if they make a mistake. Stay calm if your child makes an online privacy mistake, like posting something they shouldn’t have. Help them remove the post, where possible, and talk about how they can avoid a similar situation in the future.

- Above all, set a good example. Just as you respect your friends when posting photos or other items that contain their personal information, respect your kids’ personal information too. Be a good role model (your kids are looking to you to see what kind of information is okay to post).

Find more tips online at priv.gc.ca.

(News Canada)

Tips for Planning a Family Winter Getaway If you’re lucky enough to be travelling this winter — to a warm beach or you’re planning to simply enjoy a weekend getaway at a nearby town or city — keep these tips in mind for a fun and stress-free holiday.

1. Schedule travel time wisely. Whether you’re taking a plane, train, automobile or minivan, try to plan the bulk of your travel during a better time of day for your kids. If they have a hard time waking up early, opt for an afternoon trip. If they get sleepy and cranky in the evening, a daytime trip is best.

2. Pack like a pro. In addition to the clothes and toiletries you’ll all need, bring plenty of healthy snacks and drinks, a first aid kit, and wipes to clean up spills and messes. Involve the kids in the packing process, asking them to pick out a few things to bring for entertainment. And don’t forget to stock up on a few surprise items like colouring pages, mini games and activity books for when unexpected boredom hits.

3. Choose activities together. Head to the library or fire up your devices at home to do research on your destination as a family. It’s a great opportunity for kids to learn about where you’re heading, and for everyone to feel like they’re contributing to the trip. Have each family member pick a place they want to visit, which should help create a mix of kid and adult-friendly activities.

(News Canada)

And remember... when your young kids drive you crazy wanting your attention all the time.. remember that soon they’ll be teenagers and young adults and won’t necessarily want to spend time with parents anymore! Enjoy it while it lasts!!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Handcrafted Manitoba Features Ste. Anne Artist

By Marianne Curtis At the beginning of February, Ste. Anne artist Pierrette Sherwood made her television debut when she was featured on the MTS “Handcrafted Manitoba” Series. Season 2 of the series is currently available through Video on Demand (VOD) Options to MTS Cable subscribers. A special screening took place at the Park Theatre on February 7.

“A perfect evening last night at the Park Theatre. So many authentic and beautiful people in the house,” Sherwood recalled of her special night. “Kudos to the local talent of Ice River Films for capturing the essence of art and life in their wonderful series of Handcrafted Manitoba, season 2.”

The second season of Handcrafted Manitoba is now playing on MTS, VOD under ‘Stories from Home’ and features four episodes of approximately 10 minutes each.

The first story, ‘Reinventing the Steel’ features Sherwood’s story as a reclaimed metal artist. In ten minutes, she shows immense courage by walking away from a secure job to follow her passion as an artist. She shares the spotlight with three other artists.

For the past three years, Sherwood owned an antique and artist’s haven in Ste. Anne.

Last summer, she shut down and returned her focus to what she loved the most, creating beautiful metal sculptures and art. This gamble paid off because she was invited to set up her first gallery show, at the Le Musée de St. Boniface Museum in Winnipeg.

In 2012, she quit her job to pursue a career as a professional artist. At the time, she opened Papillon Creations, in Ste. Anne, where she displayed her art and vintage pieces to the public. She was later awarded first prize at a “Dragon’s Den”-like contest initiated by the Economic Development Corporation of Manitoba (CDEM). Her artwork has since garnered local and national media attention.

You can find Sherwood’s art for sale at Lacoste Garden Centre and the Old House Revival on Young Street in Winnipeg.

A metal art bird sculpture

by Pierrete

Pierrette Sherwood explains that this piece is a tribute in honour of a friend’s struggle with depression and his subsequent recovery.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

Date Announced for Second Pride March Planning is underway for the City of Steinbach’s second annual Pride March for Equality.

This year’s event will take place Saturday, July 15.

Last year’s event, which was organized by Michelle McHale, received both international support and condemnation since it was first announced. McHale became a vocal advocate for LGBT equality in the area after claiming her son was being bullied in a Hanover School Division school for having two moms.

The event became an opportunity to show love, support and tolerance within a strong conservative atmosphere, McHale explained. “We organized Pride Steinbach to counter the backlash. We wanted to make sure the [LGBT] community in Steinbach knew they were supported,” said McHale. “To me, Steinbach Pride is about acceptance and love. It’s about emancipation. It’s about letting leaders know it’s us you answer to.”

Police estimated that about 5,000 people converged on the community to participate in the parade in 2016.

The organizers have issued a public invitation to Provencher MP Ted Falk, Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen and Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen, but no one has responded yet.

Last year, all three chose not to attend, citing scheduling conflicts.

A publicly issued invitation by Steinbach Pride to all three local politicians remains unanswered at press time.

March 2017

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Rare Taxidermy Items Stolen On February 6 Steinbach RCMP were advised of a break-in that occurred in the RM Hanover between January 27 and February 6. Numerous mounted taxidermy items were stolen some of which are extremely unique and rare.

If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-2228477 or manitobacrimestoppers. com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

SRSS Gets Funds for Trades

A new provincial investment in equipment for technical, vocational and industrial arts programs will help prepare students for good jobs and help Manitoba businesses meet growing demand for skilled workers.

The Skills Strategy Equipment Enhancement Fund (SSEEF) provides targeted funding to ensure students have access to state-of-the-art equipment to learn the high-demand skills needed to find jobs in Manitoba’s growing economy, the minister said.

Technical vocational and industrial arts students in grades 7 to 12 will benefit from the $1.5 million investment. Projects receiving funding through the SSEEF include $110,545 to Hanover School Division for Steinbach Regional Secondary School’s industrial arts and welding programs.

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March 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch