Dawson Trail Dispatch May 2021

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Richer Receives Heritage Piece

The Richer Community Club (RCC) recently received a heritage piece that will soon be placed within the community as a reminder of one of the founding cultures of the community. A new replica Red River Cart was delivered by master cart builder Armand Jerome, one of the few craftsmen in Canada that is able to create the cart based on historical designs. The cart costs were made available thanks to a grant from Clearview Coop and Federated Coop. RCC President Mark Lanouette (left) with Kelly and Armand Jerome.

Photo by Dan Guetre

May 2021

Vaccine Super Site to Open in Steinbach The province has announced that the seventh super vaccination site is slated to open in Steinbach on May 18. Located at 294 Lumber Ave (the former Steinbach Legion building), it is expected to handle more than 420 vaccinations daily, based on supply.

Eligibility to be immunized at a super site or pop-up clinic has been expanded to include individuals aged 59 or older and First Nation people aged 39 or older. Anyone who has been in Manitoba for one month or more can receive the vaccine at no cost if they meet provincial eligibility requirements.

Provincial guidance on who is eligible to receive the AstraZeneca/Covishield vaccine, which is available through medical clinics and pharmacies, is online at protectmb.ca.

Appointments are not yet available for the Steinbach location.

People in Manitoba can now access interpreter services in over 100 languages when they are booking their COVID-19 vaccine appointment by phone. People who call 1-844MAN-VACC (1-844-626-8222) to make an appointment can request an interpreter, and the call centre will have a professional interpreter join the call to provide information to them in the language of their choice. Callers can also request spoken language or American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation services at one of the province’s super site locations.

For anyone living outside of specified communities, eligibility to be immunized at a super site or pop-up clinic includes individuals aged 50 or older and First Nation people aged 30 or older. Eligibility for the AstraZeneca/ Covishield vaccine includes all people aged 40 and over.

Anyone who has been in Manitoba for one month or more can receive the vaccine at no cost if they meet provincial eligibility requirements.

May 2021

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Providence Surpasses Fundraising Goal On April 7, Providence celebrated the completion of their most ambitious fundraising event in history.

Providence raised more than $14.7 million in its largest, most ambitious campaign.

In July 2015, Providence launched a five-year campaign with the initial goal to raise $12.5 million. After only three and a half years that amount was raised so fundraising pressed forward and a new goal of $14.5 million was set.

“We’re now pleased to announce the successful completion of our Impact 2020 campaign. We are genuinely overjoyed at God’s provision and the result of your faithful giving. This week, on April 7, 2021, we held a special virtual celebration live on Facebook and YouTube and unveiled the final campaign total of $14,791,139,” said the announcement.

Samantha Groenendijk, Vice President of External Relations attributes the success of the campaign to Provi-

dence supporters who believe so strongly in our students and the value of a post-secondary Christian education.

“We’re excited to have achieved something so impactful not only for the future of Providence, but for our students, and for our neighborhoods and communities. It couldn’t have been done without the tremendous support of our donors, staff, faculty and volunteers,” affirmed Groenendijk.

Many tuned into the live virtual event to celebrate together. The 25minute celebration featured student testimonials, campaign highlights and the special commissioned art piece that will mark the philanthropic investments of our community for years to come.

The campaign raised money for five main priorities that included revitalizing the campus, offering new programs, contributing to employee development, and bringing an en-

hanced student experience to Providence. Donations from 1,580 people who made 12,018 generous gifts.

This included gifts from board members, friends, businesses, 85 staff and faculty, and more than 700 alumni.

President David Johnson personally thanked all the people and families who invested in the students through the Impact 2020 campaign and saw the potential ‘return on investment (ROI)’ of a Christ-centered higher education.

The work of art that Yisa Akinbolaji created for Providence shows a visual narrative of the Impact 2020 journey. It highlights different programs and showcases students; students at study and in classes, as well as students playing sports, making music, and graduating.

Submitted photo

Piney Looks into Border Exemptions The RM of Piney recently received notification from Manitoba Health informing them of changes to the Federal Government’s rules on mandatory quarantine after travel for essential medical services.

According to a notice of council, residents of the RM of Piney may be exempt from mandatory quarantine if going across the border to receive primary or emergency medical services at the prescribed hospital and clinics in Warroad and Roseau (ALTRU).

“You must provide written

evidence from the licensed health care practitioner at Altru indicating that health care services were provided,” said the notice.

Although RM of Piney residents are specifically mentioned in the Federal mandatory quarantine exemption list, it is still under the determination of the Canada Border Services Officer whether an individual is subject to the mandatory quarantine rules upon return.

The RM of Piney noted that they understand the impact the border closures have on residents especially for primary and emergency medical care.

“Council is grateful for the efforts of the Manitoba Government in bringing our concerns to the Federal authorities so that medical care is available to residents in the southeast area,” the notice concluded.

Residents living in the RM of Piney can fall under two exemptions based on Travel Canada regulations. There are exemptions are in place for residents receiving medical care within 36 hours of entering Canada (non-related to COVID19), and to residents who regularly cross the border to work (pattern of travel which is generally defined as daily or weekly.

Food Truck Fair Returns The City of Steinbach is pleased ward to delicious food options while event, contact Cassandra Kornelsen at 204-346-6217 or email cassandra. to be moving ahead with plans for enjoying some summer sun.

If you have questions about this kornelsen@steinbach.ca.

Food Truck Fair this summer and is looking for food truck operators interested in participating. Applications must be submitted by May 31 and a City of Steinbach Business License is required to participate.

The Food Truck Fair is held rain or shine every Thursday in July in the east parking lot of TG Smith Centre in Steinbach from 11 am - 2 pm. It has quickly become a favourite summer event in Steinbach, with residents looking forFood Truck Fair as viewed in past years.

Submitted photo

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2021

Mother’s Day Card Fundraiser Supports Resource Centre

Steinbach Family Resource Centre invites those who received these postcards in the mail to send a little love while supporting the nonprofit organization that is geared towards working with mothers from throughout the region.

The Steinbach Family Resource Centre has launched a unique fundraiser that gives people an opportunity to send a little love this Mother’s Day while supporting the facility.

Steinbach Family Resource Centre Executive Director Jo-Anne Dalton said that residents should have received a postcard in the mail.

“As we prepare to celebrate the Moms in our lives who have loved, supported and encouraged us, we invite you to support families across the southeast, with a donation in her

name to Steinbach Family Resource Centre,” Dalton invited.

“We sent you a Mother’s Day card you received in the mail! This card is yours to give to a special Mom who has impacted your life,” Dalton explained. “Donate in her honour and your gift will be recognized on our website for the month of May.” Dalton encourages everyone to let your Mom, Grandma, or friend know you appreciate and remember all they did for you, while supporting Moms in our community

COVID Friendly Ways to Celebrate Mothers Day Compiled by Marianne Curtis The best Mother’s Day gift you can give to your mom is your time.

And while the COVID-19 pandemic is still making it tricky for families to spend time together, there are still plenty of ways to make Mother’s Day special.

We’ve found a range of activities to suit your family’s needs.

Have a Make-Your-Own Pizza Party DIY pizza: It’s a craft (depending on how artfully you place the toppings), an activity and a meal all at once! Start with basic pizza dough, then everyone gets to add their favorite toppings. Mom gets first pick, of course.

Host a Lawn Game Tourney Croquet, cornhole, bocce, outdoor Jenga or horseshoes, what’s your family’s game of choice?

Split into teams and drum up some friendly rivalry while soaking in rays with a backyard challenge.

Make a yearly tradition, and pass around a trophy too the winner each year.

Make a Scrapbook Break out those old photo albums, print some of your phone

pics and transform them all into something beautiful. You and Mom can each work on your own scrapbook pages and bind them together when you’re done.

Spruce Up the Garden Gardeners know that Mother’s Day is the perfect time to start planting seeds. Get the whole family outside and digging in the dirt together. Every time she sees them, she’ll be reminded of the special day, it’s the gift that keeps on giving! Some flowers that are fairly easy to maintain include sunflowers, marigolds and sweet peas.

Take a Tour If your mom loves history, gather the family for a tour of nearby historic sites. The beautiful weather and landmarks are sure to make her day even more memorable, and they’ll make for some great snapshots.

Plan a Picnic We’re sure any mom would love some fun in the sun with her favourite foods and favorite people.

Don’t forget a tricked-out basket for supplies.

through the work of Steinbach Family Resource Centre.

The Steinbach Family Resource Centre is dedicated to helping moms to grow, overcome, to teach, love, connect and provide for their families through critical nutrition, education and resources.

“We couldn’t do it without you,” Dalton stated.

To support the Steinbach Family Resource Centre you can donate at steinbachfrc.ca/donate.

May 2021

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Let’s Give This Challenge a Bit More Time There seems to be a lot of political noise about a Federal election. However, for the majority of us COVID-19 is providing too much of a distraction.

And when you think about it; it’s hard to campaign in an environment which has different pre-requisites. Because of the need to sanitize and physical distance, the open handshake is out, the pleasant home invitations are gone, the gathering of volunteers in one room is a no-no, the door-knocking, all carried out under the prevalence of variants and viral the hot spots. I’m hoping that common sense prevails.

What is encouraging is that we’ve seen an increase in vaccine deliveries, with a major influx to come this month. Rather than an election we should be prioritizing putting this precious cargo into willing shoulders.

The faster we do, the faster we get back to some place closer to normal, including casting our vote in a national election; exercising our democratic choice at the ballot much more freely.

We’ve all had to take many things into consideration to stay healthy because of COVID. We’ve all had to embrace many quick changes into our new social equation along with the added headaches from individuals who are bypassing rules on re-entering our borders, anti-maskers, anti vaxxers holding rallies which then become super spreaders.

Variants are popping up all around us and now infections are attacking more young people, schools and business are closing again.

The next big step is to reach that herd immunity, not only here at homes but also globally since we are always just one plane ride away from another country burning up with the virus.

I’d say we are having way too much fun (not) with our challenging daily lives to be distracted by an election.

We should be dealing instead with global weather challenges; this crisis needs our total concentration as this could conclude with disaster, forever. It will be the most important subject next on the agenda. It will need our decisive and quick undivided attention and there will be deniers on this subject that has crawled out of the woodwork.

So please let’s get the first one a bit more time.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Justin Trudeau Wants to Control What You Say Online Freedom of thought, belief, opinion, and expression is a fundamental right, guaranteed by our Charter.

In recent years we have seen an increase in activity by those who want to smother that freedom.

The “woke” movement, with its obsession with political correctness and corresponding “cancel culture”, has reared its ugly head on our university campuses, in the media, and the business world.

Now they have their sights set on the last bastion of free, unregulated speech, the internet.

Back in November, the Liberal Government introduced Bill C-10, An Act to amend the Broadcasting Act, and to make consequential amendments to other Acts.

The Liberals describe the bill as an act to set out broadcasting policy for Canada, the role of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) in regulating and supervising broadcast systems and standards (including for streaming services) and ensuring an equal playing field for Canadian content.

What they won’t admit is that this legislation gives sweeping new powers to the CRTC to regulate the internet, including individual users like you or me, with no clear guidelines for how that power will be used.

As one former CRTC Commissioner stated earlier this week, “Granting a government agency authority over legal user generated content—particularly backed up by the government’s musings about taking down websites—doesn’t just infringe on free expression, it constitutes a full-blown assault upon it and, through it, the foundations of democracy. It’s difficult to contemplate the levels of moral hubris, incompetence or both that would lead people to believe such and infringement of rights is justifiable.”

Even the CBC has expressed concerns that, with Bill C-10, your “free speech is at risk.”

Canada’s Conservatives support creating a level playing field between large foreign streaming services and Canadian broadcasters while protecting the individual rights and freedoms of Canadians.

To that end, Conservatives proposed to protect individual users and smaller players in the market by exempting streaming services and social media users with lower revenues. The Liberals rejected this common-sense compromise.

The Liberals rejected an exemption for individual users who upload videos to social media sites and went further by promising to introduce a new amendment to regulate apps.

There could be no clearer proof the Liberals are targeting what ordinary Canadians say online. This is unac-

ceptable in a diverse society that values its freedom.

Dr. Michael Geist, Canada Research Chair in Internet Law with the University of Ottawa writes, “In a free and democratic society, we don’t subject basic speech to regulation in this way. Of course there are limits on what people can say, but the idea that a broadcast regulator has any role to play in basic speech is, I think, anathema to free and democratic society where freedom of expression is viewed as one of the foundational freedoms.”

While I think we can all agree that some regulation of the internet is needed (child pornography, terrorism etc.) this bill goes too far in limiting the free expression of Canadians.

Canada’s Conservatives are the only party standing up for the fundamental freedoms of Canadians—the Bloc and NDP have said they will be voting in favour of the bill. We will continue to stand up for the freedoms of Canadians who post their content online and oppose Bill C-10 at every stage of the legislative process.

Legislature Passes Education Property Tax Rebate Dear Constituents, It’s certainly been a busy spring session in the Manitoba Legislature. The NDP recently decided to delay the passage of Bill 71, The Education Property Tax Reduction Act, which would allow Manitobans to receive their education property tax rebate cheques and provide tax relief.

The NDP used procedural delays in the Legislature to delay this bill until it was eventually voted on and passed on April 29.

Unfortunately, the NDP caucus voted against this Bill and against tax relief for Manitobans.

This new legislation would allow nearly $250 million in education property tax rebates to be provided to Manitoba property owners this spring. The province would provide a 50 per cent education property tax rebate direct-

ly to residential and farm property owners over the next two years (25 per cent this year and 25 per cent next year) and a 10 per cent rebate on other properties.

The average rebate to property owners would be about $1,140 per property over the next two years.

Rebates over the next few years will lead to the eventual elimination and removal of the education property tax, providing Manitoba property owners with much-needed tax relief.

The NDP’s own MLA and Finance Critic Mark Wasyliw told the Winnipeg Free Press in 2016 when he was Chair of the Winnipeg School Division that it is a ‘regressive tax’ and that Manitoba needs to find another way to fund schools.

In other news, our government is advancing public education by investing in important capital projects

to improve and modernize new and existing capital school infrastructure. As part of Budget 2021, the Manitoba government is providing an additional $100 million for a total of over $260 million in kindergarten to Grade 12 school capital investments. I am pleased to announce that École Lorette Immersion and École Pointe-des-Chênes are just some of the many schools that will be receiving funding through this initiative.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact my constituency office at ca.lagasse@ outlook.com or 204-807-4663.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Advancing Manitoba Education

by Cliff Cullen, Minster of Education

I would like to take this opportunity to address a lot of the misinformation being purported by school boards, trustees, union leaders and political opponents for the sole purpose of creating fear and anxiety for parents, school staff, and students.

These types of tactics prevent any progress in order to protect their monopoly and their own vested interests. As Education Minister, I am committed to make sure Manitoba students have every opportunity to reach their full potential and achieve success.

Our government was elected on a mandate to do a fulsome review of Manitoba’s education system.

That review presented a clear fact: our system is not working to the best of its ability for all students.

We are making a record investment of over $3 billion dollars in education, spending amongst the most on education in the country, but ranking last or close to last in literacy, math and science. As a parent and Minister of Education, that does not sit well with me and maintaining the status quo only puts our students at a further disadvantage compared to the rest of Canada.

The K-12 review shone a light on the vast disparities of our education system, from funding to governance to parental engagement. Manitoba is one of the last provinces to have education taxes connected to their property values. We need a funding system that is fair, equitable, and sustainable, and where the quality of your child’s education does not depend on the value of property in your neighborhood. Students across

Manitoba all deserve to be supported and have the best opportunity to succeed.

We also keep hearing from those who prefer to keep our education system stagnant talk a lot about local voices and diversity. It should be noted that 132 out of 287 of Manitoba’s trustees were acclaimed in 2018. That is close to 50% of all trustees who automatically received the role because no one ran against them. The current structure makes it difficult for those diverse voices to be heard as only six per cent of trustees are visible minorities and four per cent being indigenous in Winnipeg. Our strategy tears down the those walls and empowers more diverse local voices to be involved in education decision making helping pave the way for student success.

There will be leaders across rural Manitoba to administer education focused on regional needs. In fact, our BEST strategy will strengthen local voices where it matters most, in local schools. This will be made possible through parental involvement by creating a Provincial Advisory Council on Education as well as School Community Councils to represent local school voices and provide input in local communities.

Poverty is being used to instill a defeatist attitude to the public. Addressing poverty is not strictly an education issue but takes a whole of government approach. Our government was left with some of the worst poverty rates in Canada. We have reduced child poverty by 25% since we have taken office and we will continue to evolve our Pov-

erty Reduction Strategy to support Manitobans in need. I applaud many local schools that have taken on the challenges poverty brings and have found unique, innovative strategies to improve attendance and give those students the support they need to succeed.

Our Better Education Starts Today strategy focuses on four Pillars of Student Success: High Quality Learning and Outcomes, Future Ready Students, Governance and Accountability, and Excellence in Teaching and Leadership. These pillars will guide our efforts to improving our education system, and we will be engaging with Manitobans through the Parent Engagement Task Force, numerous advisory panels, and public forums to seek feedback front lines.

Manitobans should know that Bill 64 represents only one component of our plan to have Canada’s most improved education system.

With all this being said, we are taking on bold steps to improve education in Manitoba. You can’t get where you want to go without taking steps forward. Our Better Education Strategy Today (BEST) strategy encourages Manitobans to be a partner in this once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve our education system. We have numerous opportunities for students, parents and caregivers, teachers and frontline school staff, as well community leaders to get involved and make a positive impact. Go to BetterEducationMB.ca and together we’ll make sure Manitoba students receive the education they deserve.

Protecting Manitobans and Advancing Manitoba The theme of Budget 2021, released and announced on April 7, was twofold: protect Manitobans and advance Manitoba. In other words, our PC government is protecting Manitobans and their services while advancing Manitoba and the economy, in light of COVID-19.

With Budget 2021, I am proud of our government’s commitment to small businesses, landowners, municipalities, children, students, and families to name but a few. No doubt the pandemic has upended post-secondary education and job opportunities for university and college students looking for new jobs and careers. We will advance students through their learning and into good jobs with new and measurable actions to grow our economy, boost skills and attract newcomers to our province.

Budget 2021 outlined more than $680 million to post-secondary institutions in addition to another $10 million to support priority maintenance to buildings and infrastructure. Post-secondary students will benefit as funding to the Manitoba

Bursary Fund increased by nearly $4 million as well as an increased investment of $1.4 million in interest-free student loans to the tune of $55 million. The previous government left many post-secondary students behind, and our government is ensuring that post-secondary education continues to be affordable and accessible while maintaining the third lowest tuition in Canada.

Our government’s election promise in 2019 to remove the education tax on property for owners of residential and farm property came to fruition in Budget 2021 with a 50 per cent reduction over the next two years, starting with 25 per cent this year.

With this plan to phase out education property tax, this will save the average homeowner approximately $210 in 2021. For more details, see manitoba.ca/edupropertytax.

The taxpayer will always be top of mind and Budget 2021 is reflective of that. Since our government was formed in 2016, we worked hard to fix the financial mess left to us by the former government. We balanced the budget in 2019-2020 ---

the first balanced budget in 11 years --- at the same time investing more per person in health care, social services and education in all of Canada.

Simply put, lower taxes will mean giving more money to hard-working families which allows more money to be spent in the Manitoba economy and thus creating more jobs.

As we continue weathering the current global pandemic together, let us also remember our collective duty to protect Manitobans and advance Manitoba in the weeks, months and years ahead.

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

Read the Dispatch online at dawsontrail.ca

May 2021

Property Owners Find Relief with Rebate

Last week in the Manitoba Legislature, the NDP decided to delay the passage of Bill 71, The Education Property Tax Reduction Act, which would allow Manitobans to receive their education property tax rebate cheques and provide muchneeded tax relief to Manitobans.

The NDP used procedural delays in the Legislature to delay this bill until it was eventually voted on and passed on April 29. Unfortunately, the NDP caucus voted against this Bill and against tax relief for Manitobans.

Manitoba is one of the last provinces to fund education with property taxes. The elimination of property taxes to fund education was part of our 2019 election platform and was included in Budget 2021. The province would provide a 50 per cent education property tax rebate directly to residential and farm property owners over the next two years (25 per cent this year and 25 per cent next year) and a 10 per cent rebate on other properties. The average rebate to property owners would be about $1,140 per property over the next two years. Rebates over the next few years will lead to the eventual elimination and removal of the education property tax, providing Manitoba property owners with much-needed tax relief.

It is certainly an odd position for the NDP to take, since their own MLA and Finance Critic Mark Wasyliw told the Winnipeg Free Press in 2016 when he was Chair of the Winnipeg School Division that it is a ‘regressive tax’ and that Manitoba needs to find another way to fund schools.

Some good news on the COVID-19 front, Manitoba has signed a deal with North Dakota to Vaccinate Manitoba Truckers in the United States. Premier Pallister and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum announced The Essential Worker Cross-Border Vaccination Initiative, where North Dakota will administer COVID-19 vaccinations to Manitoba-based truck drivers transporting goods to and from the United States. It is estimated roughly 2,000 to 4,000 Manitoba drivers will take part in this program.

The state and province are establishing a joint-operations group to manage the initiative. The North Dakota Department of Health will provide nurses and other staff to administer the first and second doses of the vaccine to provide full immunization of truckers. There is no cost to the state or province as the US government supplies the vaccine and reimburses the cost to administer.

I would urge all Manitobans to get vaccinated as soon as you qualify and help stop the spread of COVID-19.

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 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca.

Pray for Our Elected Leaders

Dear Editor: I would like to thank you for the good work you are doing publishing the Dawson Trail Dispatch. We look forward to it every month.

I was just thinking about the discouraging events we are all experiencing with Covid-19. It is so tempting to be upset over it and complain about our national leaders, etc.

I find it interesting that there is no mention of GOD and our great need of HIM to help us all, this includes our government leaders. We all need the LORD to show us what to do, and to ask HIM to deliver us.

Perhaps instead of complaining we should begin praying for all those who are in authority that GOD would guide them to make the right decisions so that we would receive healing and deliverance from all these troubles because, as we intercede in prayer for one another, this is good and acceptable in the sight of GOD our Saviour. Only GOD has the real power to save us all from this plague.

Thank you for permitting me to share these few thoughts with your readers.

I remain yours sincerely, Harold Field Steinbach, Manitoba

May 2021

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Legislation Introduced to Protect Canadian Waterways and Ecosystems Ted Falk, MP for Provencher, has seconded a bill to protect Canada’s waterways and ecosystems.

Introduced by Conservative MP Andrew Scheer, Bill C-269, an Act to Amend the Fisheries Act (prohibition – deposit of raw sewage), would ban the dumping of raw sewage into Canada’s rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Since 2013, nearly 900 billion litres of raw sewage has been pumped into Canadian waterways and the amount of raw sewage being vented is increasing every year. Among the more notable examples, in 2015, the Liberal government authorized the City of Montreal to dump 8 billion litres of raw sewage into the Saint Lawrence River.

“This bill will make it illegal to dump untreated wastewater into any body of water that contains fish habitat,” Falk noted. “It also removes the power of federal ministers to give permits to municipalities to dump raw sewage into Canada’s waterways.”

Bill C-269 also takes into consideration that it will take time for some municipalities to upgrade their wastewater systems. The coming-into-force component of this bill allows municipalities that may not yet have the capacity to fully treat the water they expel the time they need to do so.

“Canadians have inherited such a rich natural heritage, especially when it comes to our water resources,” said Falk. “When we respect our waterways, we can expect to see benefits both to human health and the health of our ecosystems.”

Dawson Trail Dispatch

St. Adolphe to Receive Hockeyville Prize The province rallied around St. Adolphe while they competed to claim this year’s Kraft Hockeyville title on Saturday night. Despite their best efforts the community missed out on claiming the title, $250,000 for arena upgrades and the chance to host an NHL pre-season game.

People in St. Adolphe found out last month they had made the final four in the competition, which sees communities across Canada compete for money to help them make improvements to their arenas.

Voting closed April 10 with Elsipogtog First Nation in New Brunswick taking home the Hockeyville title. But the other finalists didn’t go home empty-handed, they still receive $25,000 each for arena upgrades and another $10,000 from the NHLPA Goals & Dreams fund to buy new hockey equipment for their minor hockey programs.

For St. Adolphe, which has a

St. Adolphe will receive $25,000 each for arena upgrades and another $10,000 from the NHLPA Goals & Dreams fund to buy new hockey equipment for their minor hockey programs.

broken ice plant, a mould problem and small dressing rooms, the money is sorely needed. The ice plant alone will cost about $150,000 to fix, and even more if they buy a completely new one, so the community is brainstorming ways to raise the rest of the money.

The St. Adolphe Community Club and Arena was built in 1992.

Volunteers were hoping to win the $250,000 prize to help them tackle a mould problem, update the dressing rooms, replace the ice plant and complete other necessary improvements.

On April 12, a capital fundraising campaign was announced to raise

funds to get the teams back on the ice.

“Our primary goal is to get the ice plant up and running again, but we won’t stop there. We have work to do on replacing a wall with mould damage, expanding our dressing rooms, replacing our zamboni and score clock, and expanding our community kitchen.

With the support of community members and funders, these dreams can become a reality,” stated a spokesperson.

A percentage of the funds generated through the capital campaign will be dedicated to a St. Adolphe Community Foundation that will create a legacy fund for future St. Adolphe improvements.

Green Team Funding Announced Dawson Trail MLA Bob Lagasse and Springfield-Ritchot MLA Ron Schuler announced 17 green Team Grants totaling almost $200,000 that will be given out to organizations throughout their constituencies. Provincially, over $10 million in Green Team grants were announced to help young Manitoba’s find summer employment and gain work experience while supporting COVID-19 response and recovery efforts.

“Our PC government recognizes the value of supporting community-based organizations and providing youth with critical work experience and income during these challenging times,” said Lagasse. “These grants represent a strong investment in our youth by helping them get involved in our communities and parks while kick-starting their career prospects.”

Selected recipients in the constituency of Dawson Trail included the Town of Ste. Anne ($5,177), RM of Taché ($14,303), Richer Dawson Trail Museum ($4,633), The Church at Pine Ridge ($6,812), Richer Community Club ($11,986), Division scolaire franco-manitobaine ($4,212), Seine River School Division ($16,200) and RM of Ste. Anne ($4,768).

In the Springfield-Ritchot constituency, the RM of Ritchot received to grants totaling $14,508, Seine River Minor Ball Association received $4,212, the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre received $42,226, Parkland Mews Falconry & Bird of Prey Education Centre received $2,521, Ste-Agathe Community Development Inc. received $5,177, Grande Pointe Homeowners Association received $10,284, the Town of Niverville received $19,209 and the Niverville MCC Community Assistance Centre received $30,462.

The Urban and Hometown Green Team grants allow communities to hire youth aged 15 to 29 to work on community projects between May 1 and September 30. Non-profit organizations in throughout Manitoba are eligible to receive 100 per cent of wage costs and $250 per position for support costs, while municipal governments receive 50 per cent of wage costs and $125 per position for support costs, on a cost-shared basis.

The province is maintaining its 2020 funding level for Green Teams, which had doubled from 2019 to stimulate youth job creation during the pandemic. Priorities for the 2021 summer season are focused on community-based organizations and municipal governments that can offer full-time employment opportunities for youth, and projects that support COVID-19 response and recovery efforts.

Fishing Licenses Available Online Don’t let COVID rob you of the opportunity to hit the waterways and take the family fishing. Once again, fishers can purchase 2021–22 angling licenses online through the province’s e-licensing portal.

The recreational angling season officially opens on May 15 in Manitoba’s southern region, and May 22 in the northwest and north central regions. The northeast region remains open to angling year round. The 2020 angling season officially closes at midnight on April 4 in the southern division, and April 30 in the northwest and north central divisions.

Last spring the province introduced the online service for the sale of outdoor licences and permits, including angling licences, taking the sales out of local stores and businesses.

All anglers are required to obtain an angling licence to fish in Manitoba, unless exempt. Angling licences are now available online 24-hours a day, seven days a week, and can be immediately purchased and printed at home. For more information and to purchase an angling licence, visit manitobaelicensing.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2021

LCI Students Participate in MADD Contest

By Emily Beales

Neighbours Caring for Neighbours A new grassroots program started in the retirement community of Paradise Village by a group of residents has taken on a life of its own. With the support of neighbours and local businesses, the Neighbours caring for Neighbours (NCFN) program started as a supporting meal program for those who require a bit of help. Almost 500 meals have been shared to date and now the program has blossomed by adding a group of volunteers performing yard care for those who need a bit of help.

Recently, the Seine River Service for Seniors group reached out to add a bit of Easter colour to the program and the Dawson Trail Dispatch committed to adding a fund to purchase Easter dinner supplies.

“I can’t say enough on how well our NCFN program is doing here in our park!” said Ilene Goschke, one of the program creators. “We have over 30 volunteers that are part of our NCFN program!”

“We have lots of needs here in our park but if we meet those needs one at a time, we will make a difference,” said Goschke. “I’m thrilled on how well our program is growing and branching out.

Our whole village is more aware of their neighbours and more and more are getting involved!”

Ilene says, “We have served almost 300 hot meals and over 100 bowls of hot soup to date! We have cleaned over 10 yards, (full spring cleaning) we will 3 teams that meet with our yard leader! We have another 10-15 more yards to do... Just need some nice weather to start again! It’s absolutely fantastic! I can’t say enough on how well our Neighbours Caring for Neighbours program is doing here in our park! We have over 30 volunteers that are part of our NCFN program! Anyways here is a few pictures of what we cook and our yard program in action as we speak. Love Love our program!!”

First Load of Recycling Heads to St. Malo

A new grassroots program star ted in the retirement community of Paradise Village by a group of residents has taken on a life of its own. With the suppor t of neighbours and local businesses, the Neighbours caring for Neighbours (NCFN) program star ted as a suppor ting meal program for those who require a bit of help and grew to include yardwork assistance, gift baskets and flowers and activities for residents.

The BPPS (Buffalo Point Piney Stuartburn) Recycling and Waste Management Board is excited to update local residents that the first recyclables were transported to Epic Smile in St. Malo during the week of April 19.

“This marks the start of a regional approach to recycling and waste management,” stated a spokesperson.

“Buffalo Point Piney Stuartburn board welcomes our first new hire for the position of Equipment Operator and the valuable support he’ll provide in ensuring the success of the project.”

The BPPS Recycling and Waste Management Board asks that residents remain patient as changes are implemented and complications are overcome.

“The new initiative still has many challenges ahead, but these first loads of recyclables marked a significant milestone for the new service,” the spokesperson continued. “Continue to think about how to reduce and recycle.”

Last month the BPPS Recycling and Waste Management Board was officially launched with the signing of the agreement between the RM’s of Stuartburn, Piney and Buffalo Point First Nation.

On Friday, April 23 students throughout College Lorette Collegiate took part in a presentation called Mothers Against Drunk Driving or MADD for short. Mothers Against Drunk Driving is a nonprofit organization that is focused on helping teenagers realize they have the power to stop the damage caused by impaired driving.

Nearly 2,000 people lose their lives and 63,000 are left injured due to impairment related crashes every year in Canada. Also, 16-25 year olds only make up 19.2% of Canada’s population but this age group is involved in more than 35% of the impairment related traffic deaths. This is why Mothers Against Drunk Driving do these educational presentations because they as much as everyone else want to bring these statistics lower and lower. These presentations are also to encourage teenagers to take action and to help spread awareness amongst our peers.

For this reason MADD is inviting the students at College Lorette Collegiate to participate in the Annual Multi-Media Contest. This is a great opportunity for students to use their own creative expression and unique perspectives. Any student willing to partake can use their creativity to make a short film presentation, an audio public service announcement or a multi-media public service announcement.

These presentations are going to be used to cultivate youth involvement amid the 16-25 year old age group. If you have an interest in spreading awareness I would strongly recommend you participate in this event. Not only do you get to make a difference you can also be awarded prizes such as $500 dollars.

If this sounds like an opportunity you would like to take part in please visit MADD Canada for application forms and deadlines. We can choose to be affected by the world or we can choose to affect the world. Which will you choose?

May 2021

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Newcomers to Lorette Eligible for Welcome Basket Have you purchased a home or condo in the LUD of Lorette, in the last year or if you have questions about your new community the Welcome Basket Committee of the LUD of Lorette would be happy to answer some of those questions.

The Welcome committee has a free basket of coupons, small gifts, samples, brochures, and business cards which have been generously provided by the businesses and organizations in the LUD of Lorette.

In order to qualify, you must email your request only to lorettewelcomebasket@gmail.com. The Welcome Basket Committee is asking that applications not be posted via Lorette Discussion Board or on Facebook.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Nominations Wanted for Business Awards

By Marianne Curtis The Steinbach Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting nominations for this year’s annual business awards until May 25. Voting for the coveted Customer Service Award will take place in July.

All businesses and individuals from Steinbach and surrounding areas are eligible for nomination in five categories.

Categories include Business of the Year (Small, Medium and Large), Community Involvement, Customer Service Award, Future Leader and Non-Profit Excellence.

The Community Involvement Award recognizes a business or organization who has demonstrated leadership, made significant contributions to improve the wellbeing of the community and promotes community involvement as part of their corporate culture.

The Business of the Year Award recognizes a small business, a medium business,

and a large business that exemplify excellence in most, if not all, of the following areas of growth and stability, innovation, quality of product and/or service, human resource practices and commitment to community and/or Industry.

The Customer Service Award is presented to a business that is recognized by the public for the outstanding quality and consistency of their customer service.

The Future Leader Award will go to an individual between 18 to 35 years of age who demonstrates admirable leadership and vision within an organization or business. This person has significantly impacted their business or organization, driven positive change and/or innovation, and deserves recognition for his or her contributions to our community and/ or their industry.

Finally, the Non-Profit Excellence

Award recognizes a non-profit organization that is known for enhancing the social, cultural, environmental and economic well-being of the community.

This non-profit organization has been successful in achieving their vision and mandate, as evidenced by the quality of the organization’s programs and services, as well as its innovative practices.

The winners are chosen by an independent selection committee, consisting of community members and reviews submissions to select an award recipient in each category, with the exception of the Customer Service Award. The Customer Service Award is awarded by way of a public vote. The nominee with the highest number of unique public votes receives the award.

Winners will be announced at the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Night on September 28.

St. Malo Travel Agent Ready for Reopening

By Marianne Curtis The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating to the tourism industry and the reality is that there is no set timeline or guide to what recovery will look like. However, as vaccination programs roll out around the world, countries are slowly opening up and travel agents are dipping their toes back into the industry.

Susie Sarrasin operates a home-based travel agency working for Ixtapa Travel in St. Malo. She says a passion for travel is what led her to join the industry back in 2003.

“God created a big, beautiful world for us to explore and enjoy with so many different cultures. I find the more destination and cultures I experience, the more I add to my bucket list to explore,” Sarrasin explained. “I enjoy hosting groups of all ages to different destinations the most. There are many people who would love to travel, but for some reason or other are reluctant so if I host the group they feel more at ease as I guide them through the airports etc. and am with them in case they should need assistance.”

Then COVID changed everything and now a year later, one in three travel destinations are still fully closed to interna-

tional tourists as concerns grow over the impact of new corona virus variants, with most of the tourist draws affected being in Asia, the Pacific, North America and Europe.

Sarrasin is excited that many countries are starting to reopen to tourists, including Costa Rica, Croatia, Dominican Republic, the Dutch Caribbean Islands, Ecuador, Egypt, Iceland, Morocco, Israel and many others within the continent of Africa are starting to open to travel.

“Each day brings us more and more countries that are opening and each country has their own set of rules and regulations to make it possible for one to visit,” Sarrasin continued. “It is almost certain a COVID Passport will be put into place for future travel as proof is needed for immunization and a negative testing.”

“Every day there are more opening and each country has its own protocols,” she continued. “Sightseeing excursions are very limited to the amount of people in area, only open to visitors and there are so many rules and regulations.”

International destinations are beginning to adopt a more nuanced, evidence and risk-based approach to COVID-19 linked

Susie Sarrasin operates a homebased travel agent working for Ixtapa Travel in St. Malo.

Submitted photo

travel restrictions, with antigen test requirements for entry, contact tracing programs and refined quarantine policies.

However, travelers are should be aware that the majority of governments still advise their citizens to avoid non-essential travel while the focus sharpens on delivering the international vaccination program.

“The best advice if you want to travel is make sure your get your COVID immunization, and contact your travel advisor for the latest up to date rules and regulations for entering the country you want to visit. Please do not listen to hearsay,” Sarrasin concluded.

Access Credit Union Members Reap Rewards At the virtual Annual General Meeting held on March 22, the Board of Directors of Access Credit Union announced an $8.2 million cash return to all credit union members.

“We promised members that we were placing a strong emphasis on retaining our patronage program for all Access Credit Union members as a merged entity,” shared Ingrid Loewen, Board Chair. “Our board fully understands the value of the Member Rewards program and are proud of the amount of earnings we are able to return to the members, while keeping the credit union well-positioned for the future.”

As noted by Loewen, this announcement follows the merger between Access Credit Union and Crosstown Civic Credit Union on January 1, 2021. Throughout the merger process, both credit union parties agreed that Access Credit Union would focus on maximizing the ability to pay patronage to members as part of the cooperative values and belief that members should share in their profits.

A new enhanced patronage program with the objective of paying bonuses in cash to members is in development with more details scheduled to be released in the coming months.

“Access Credit Union is a true cooperative. As shareholders of Access, our success is your success,” said Access Credit Union President and CEO, Larry Davey. “Access is proud to be sharing our profits with our members in what has been a challenging year for many individuals and businesses. Despite the challenges, both legacy credit unions financial position remained strong and our member-owners are seeing the benefit through the Member Rewards program.”

The Member Rewards Program is the credit union’s way to show appreciation to its members for their continued relationships and patronage. As a cooperative, Access Credit Union members are true owners of the organization and can share in the annual profits.

After satisfying requirements for reserves, the Board of Directors may set aside a portion of earnings for members who have borrowed and saved at the credit union. The amount a member receives is based on interest earned on non-registered deposits and interest paid on lending products; the more members bank with Access, the more Member Rewards they’ll earn each year.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Working Together Helps in Emergency Situations The RM of Piney municipal fire chief and Emergency measures coordinator encourage residents to get to know each other and prepare to work together for the betterment of the community in the event of an emergency.

Bill Stowe, RM of Piney municipal fire chief said that over the past few months, he’s had the opportunity to review fire response history and events that have had an impact on the community.

“How our Fire Department reacts to these events is critical. Understanding who we could be working with should a severe event happen is very important. I had the pleasure of meeting and conversing with a number of groups,” Stowe explained. “Particularly, the caring and dedicated people of Badger and Woodridge who have spent countless hours organizing the

Piney Evacuation Assistance Team (PEAT) in those communities.”

Richard Gamble, Municipal Emergency Coordinator whose duties include imagining the worst and how to best handle and plan ahead hopes that other communities will organize their own groups.

“No matter how the RM reacts, we cannot approach the value of the Woodridge and Badger PEAT groups and the efforts they provide to their communities,” Gamble explained. “I would love to see to the PEAT group model duplicated in other villages within the RM of Piney.”

The PEAT members are part of the community that they are working to safeguard. Their specific knowledge of the local residents and resources makes them one of the most valuable assets available during an event.

“I urge everyone in those areas,

even newcomers to touch base with these organizations so they know who you are. These volunteers want to help when our region experiences its greatest time of need,” Stowe continued. “If there are groups in our other communities that are already or could be working together to facilitate faster and more efficient communication during an event, we would much appreciate hearing from you.”

Gamble invites residents to contact the community groups listed. “Perhaps a new PEAT group can emerge to enhance another village in our community,” Gamble added. “I hope to see new volunteer groups in the coming months.”

To find out more about the Badger area group contact badgercommunityassociation@gmail.com and for Woodridge email sjletkeman@ hotmail.com.

Stuartburn Planning Meeting Goes Virtual The RM of Stuartburn is hosting their upcoming development plan hearing virtually after COVID regulations has forced them to limit public access.

On May 25, the RM of Stuartburn council is hosting a virtual hearing to adopt By-law No. 157-2019 being the Rural Municipality of Stuartburn Development Plan By-law.

According to council, the public can review the documents at the Municipal Office or on the municipal website, rmofstuartburn.com under government files.

“Since the office is closed to the public, we ask that you call ahead so that we can make arrangements

to get the requested material to you,” noted council.

“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and to ensure Public Health requirements are met we are offering three options for attendance to hear representations,” council explained.

“You can attend by Go To Meeting (Virtually) or by Teleconference.”

To submit written representation, send written materials via e-mail, mail or drop box at least 2 days prior to the hearing, or pre-register to attend in person. There is limited space for this.

The meeting is scheduled to take place May 25 at 7 pm.

All objections, written or ver-

bal, must be filed prior to the adjournment of the hearing and must include the name, address and property description of the person filing the objection and the grounds of their objection. At the hearing, council will hear any potential taxpayer who wishes to make a presentation, ask questions or register an objection.

Those feeling ill or who have travelled outside the Province within 14 days or have been in contact with a COVID positive case or awaiting a COVID test must attend virtually. Council can be contacted at cao@rmofstuartburn.com or 204-425-3218.

Providence Announces Virtual Graduation On April 15, Providence in Otterburne announced that they would be holding a ‘Virtual Graduation’ on Saturday, May 29 for both the 2020 and 2021 graduating classes. Around 200 students earning undergraduate and graduate degrees will be celebrating remotely this spring.

According to University College Dean Catherine Rust-Akinbolaji, Providence is working hard to deliver an innovative way for graduates to participate in commencement activities.

“We’re excited to celebrate the hard work and success of our graduating students with a virtual ceremony. It will be a meaningful and memorable program that includes the graduates of 2020 and 2021,” said Rust-Akinbolaji.

She noted that this will go down

in history as the school’s first virtual grad classes. “Although the pandemic has disrupted regular, in-person graduation traditions and activities, it creates a unique opportunity for students to invite an unlimited number of friends and family, even if they live far away, to join in the virtual fun and celebrations together,” she added.

Will Dueck, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science and a recipient of the ABHE Honor Society Delta Epsilon Chi award has been selected as valedictorian for the University College. Egon Sawatzky Friesen who is graduating with a Master of Arts in Counselling will represent the Seminary.

President David Johnson will present the 2021 graduation address, which will be his last because he is

retiring in June after a thirty-one year career at Providence.

“I am honoured to be asked to give the commencement address this year,” said Johnson. “I look forward to a great graduation celebration for the classes of 2020 and 2021. I am sure that this virtual ceremony will be memorable for everyone. Congratulations, graduating students! The world needs your knowledge and character for leadership and service.”

Special grad packages including caps and tassels are being mailed and students should begin receiving them by mid-May. Graduating students are invited to submit photos that will be included in a virtual presentation as part of the ceremony. Providence plans on broadcasting the event live both on Facebook and You Tube on May 29.

May 2021

Community Water Projects Approved in Restart Program Five local projects are among the province’s recent investment of $50 million for essential water and waste-water services projects under the Manitoba Restart Program to protect communities and create jobs.

The Village of St-Pierre-Jolys will receive $500,000 for sewer main renewal; the RM of Stuartburn is getting $68,000 for lowpressure sewer renewals. The RM of Ste. Anne will receive $1 million for their wetland lagoon, the RM of Reynolds received $3.375 million for a truck haul lagoon, and Whiteshell Provincial Park got $2.212 million for lagoon upgrades.

The funds come from the $500-million Manitoba Restart Program, an economic stimulus package designed to help restart Manitoba’s economy as the province moves forward through the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new investments include approximately $43 million from the Department of Municipal Relations and $7 million from the Department of Conservation and Climate.

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May 2021

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Falk Raises Concern Over Broadcasting Changes According to Provencher MP Ted Falk Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wants to control what you say online.

Back in November, the Liberal Government introduced Bill C-10, An Act to amend the Broadcasting Act, and to make consequential amendments to other Acts.

Falk said that the Liberals describe the bill as an act to set out broadcasting policy for Canada, the role of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) in regulating and supervising broadcast systems and standards (including for streaming services) and ensuring an equal playing field for Canadian content.

“What they won’t admit is that this legislation gives sweeping new powers to the CRTC to regulate the internet, including individual users like you or me, with no clear guidelines for how that power will be used,” Falk stated.

Falk noted that a former CRTC Commissioner stated that “granting a government agency authority over legal user generated content, particularly backed up by the government’s musings about taking down websites, doesn’t just infringe on free expression, it constitutes a full-blown assault upon it and, through it, the foundations of democracy. It’s difficult to contemplate the levels of moral hubris, incompetence or both that would lead people to believe such and infringement of rights is justifiable.”

“Canada’s Conservatives support creating a level playing field between large foreign streaming services and Canadian broadcasters while protecting the individual rights and freedoms of Canadians,” Falk continued. “To that end, Conservatives proposed to protect individual users and smaller players in the market by exempting streaming services and social media users with lower revenues. The Liberals rejected this common-sense compromise.”

Falk said the Liberals rejected an exemption for individual users who upload videos to social media sites and went further by promising to introduce a new amendment to regulate apps.

“There could be no clearer proof the Liberals are targeting what ordinary Canadians say online. This is unacceptable in a diverse society that values its freedom,” Falk stated. “Canada’s Conservatives will continue to stand up for the freedoms of Canadians who post their content online and oppose Bill C-10 at every stage of the legislative process.”

Falk added that while everyone agrees that some regulation of the internet is needed (child pornography, terrorism etc.) this bill goes too far in limiting the free expression of Canadians.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Powerhouse Couple Return to Phoenix Cheer On April 13, Phoenix Cheer Athletics (PCA) from Ste. Anne excitedly announced that Tiffany and Andrew Recksiedler will be joining the coaching staff.

According to Jolene Chuhai, PCA Chair, the Recksiedlers took a break from running their successful cheerleading program, Scorpions Elite Cheer (SEC), in June 2019 to focus on other personal commitments. During that time, they continued to lend their expertise to choreograph and clean up routines for other cheer programs across Canada, including PCA. “Tiffany and Andrew are two of the most well-respected cheer coaches in Manitoba and are well known in the Canadian cheer landscape,” said Chuhai. “Even after SEC closed, we continued to stay connected with Tiffany and Andrew as we built PCA from the ground up. They provided us with so much advice and encouragement and we cannot wait to have them working with us again in this new capacity, just adding to our amazing group of coaches.”

Phoenix Cheer is an all-star, not-for-profit cheerleading program with over 100 athletes ages 5 to 30+. When their former cheerleading program unexpectedly closed in June 2019, a group of dedicated parents, coaches and athletes came together to keep the cheerleading community strong in southeast Manitoba.

Many of the current athletes and coaches at PCA were former

Tiffany and Andrew Recksiedler join the coaching staff at Phoenix Cheer Athletics (PCA) from Ste. Anne.

Submitted photo

athletes and coaches with SEC so this full circle moment.

“We are thrilled to be returning to coaching cheerleading again, especially with so many of our former athletes and coaches,” explained Tiffany. “While it was nice to have a break to focus on other priorities, cheerleading has always been part of who we are and we are excited to start this next chapter with PCA.”

The Recksiedlers are hoping to run some cheerleading camps at PCA over the summer and will be coaching next competitive season which starts in August.

In 2020, PCA was awarded a Building Sustainable Communities grant in the amount of $75,000 to help purchase equipment and furniture for their new building in Ste. Anne.

Stars Remains Vital in Southeast

According to a report released on April 28, STARS air ambulance continues to grow as a vital link in Manitoba’s emergency response system, and Steinbach remains one of the communities to which the not-for-profit helicopter EMS service flies the most.

Last year, STARS carried out 50 missions to Steinbach during the 2020-21 fiscal year, up from 33 the year before. About half of these missions were scene calls, and the other half were inter-hospital transfers.

Daryl Braun, Donor Relations, Development and Community Engagement Officer said that even though Steinbach is located so close to Winnipeg, STARS flies inter-facility transfers from the community for three reasons, time, tools and talent.

“It takes the STARS helicopter about 17 minutes to fly to Steinbach and 17 minutes to fly back to Winnipeg; a significant time savings when every second counts,” Braun explained. “En route to the city, patients can receive vital diagnostics and interventions, thanks to leading-edge medical tools on-board the aircraft.”

The third is talent. “When a critically ill or injured patient travels

to Winnipeg via ground ambulance, it may be necessary for an emergency doctor or nurse to accompany the patient for the transport, leaving the local ER short-staffed,” Braun continued to explain. “The talented STARS flight nurses and paramedics have specialized training to provide world-class critical care for these very sick patients, freeing up local ER doctors and nurses to stay in the community to help others in need.”

STARS is a charitable organization that exists thanks to a community-partnered model comprising government funding, community fundraising, individual donations and corporate support. STARS relies on donations and fundraising to ensure the life-saving service can continue to help those living, working and playing in Steinbach and across Manitoba for generations to come.

It takes the STARS helicopter about 17 minutes to fly to Steinbach and 17 minutes to fly back to Winnipeg; a significant time savings when every second counts File photo

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2021

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Paying Your Taxes; Adjusting Your Taxes The weeks leading up to the April 30 filing deadline are always quite hectic: trying to get hundreds of tax returns filed. We focus on the clients that have taxes payable and owe Canada Revenue Agency. We want them to avoid the late filing fee.

What happens if you file after April 30 and it turns out you owe CRA? You are subject to a 5% late filing penalty; for example, if you owe $1,000, CRA will add $50. And for every month you are late, CRA will add 1% of what you owe.

So if you have not filed your taxes yet, we suggest you file by May 31 to avoid any additional penalties.

Those who are self-employed with small businesses have until June 15 to file without additional penalty. And the spouses of those self-employed also have until June 15 to file.

Any amount owing for everyone starts accruing interest as of May 1. So the sooner you pay the amount owing, the less interest continues to be added to your tax bill. The interest rate is a reasonable 5%. For example, if you owe $1000, the interest is about $5 per month. We recommend if you owe CRA and cannot pay it all immediately, that you pay 1/12 per month so it’s paid off in full within 12 months and before next year’s filing tax deadline.

Interest Waived Good news from CRA! If you received COVID benefits and you have an amount owing, they are waiving the interest to April 30 2022. So you have an extra 12 months to pay the amount owing without paying any additional interest. This is only available if your taxable income is less than $75,000.

This interest free 12 months is only for the amount owing for 2020 taxes and only if you received COVID benefits. If you have an amount owing from a previous year, that amount will continue to accrue interest.

If you did not receive any COVID benefits and you owe, you do not get interest relief.

This provides some interest relief to those who may still be not working or have reduced income. We still recommend you try to pay 1/12 of the amount you owe each month. It will be easier to pay a little bit each pay or each month then to try to find the whole amount next spring.

Changing your taxes Sometimes we file tax returns before the April 30 deadline to get them filed on time even if they are not quite complete. We may be missing some information but we know the client has an amount owing. We file as is to avoid the late filing penalty.

We know that we can get the missing information later and can adjust the taxes to

Rural Restaurants Key to Expanded Financial Relief Program The Manitoba government has announced an additional $2 million to expand the Dinein Restaurant Relief Program, administered by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce in partnership with the Manitoba Restaurant and Foodservices Association.

“Manitoba’s restaurant industry has made significant sacrifices to keep all Manitobans safe in our fight against COVID-19,” said Economic Development and Jobs Minister Ralph Eichler. “This expansion of the Dinein Restaurant Relief Program will support restaurants in rural Manitoba and the catering industry, and we will continue to work with our business community and partners to identify industry needs during this challenging time and help offset expenses created by the pandemic.”

The Dine-in Restaurant Relief Program was designed to provide a rebate to dine-in restaurants that shifted to a delivery model due to public health restrictions. The program helps offset costs related to delivery services, whether a restaurant provides its own delivery service or uses a third-party delivery company.

“This expanded program is intended to provide extended financial relief to dine-in restaurants that have been affected financially by the province moving to Critical (red) on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System and resulting public health

orders,” said Chuck Davidson, president and CEO of the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce.

The initial program launched in January, and to date, 513 applications have been approved. As of March 31, approximately $4 million in rebates have been allocated, primarily in Winnipeg.

Under this expanded program, restaurants in rural Manitoba and catering businesses that did not have established delivery models or that experienced significant revenue declines will be able to apply for a financial rebate based on their decline in revenue compared to pre-pandemic sales.

“In a time when the food-service industry in Manitoba has experienced significant revenue losses due to the pandemic and code red restrictions, we are pleased to see our provincial government expanding this initiative to ensure funding reaches some of the rural restaurants and our catering industry who have faced significant challenges of operating during this unprecedented time,” said Shaun Jeffrey, executive director and CEO, Manitoba Restaurant and Foodservices Association.

For further information and to apply for the Dine-in Restaurant Relief Program, restaurants throughout Manitoba are encouraged to visit mbchamber.mb.ca/dine-in-restaurant-relief-program.

amend the amount. Adjusting taxes or making changes is relatively simple, so we don’t mind filing first and adjusting later.

There are many reasons to adjust taxes shortly after filing or throughout the year. We often add missing information like medical expenses, donations, RRSP contributions, or the seniors’ school tax rebate.

If you filed your taxes before April 30 and realize you missed some info, you can still request your taxes be adjusted. There are specific forms used to make adjustments and sometimes CRA will request you send in the documents to support your claim, so make sure you have all the receipts for any adjustments you are requesting.

Repeated Failure to Report Income Penalty It’s important if you missed reporting some income like a T5 for interest earned that you get your taxes corrected as soon as possible.

There are large penalties levied by CRA if you fail to report income more than once.

For example, say you missed $500 of income earned on your 2019 taxes and CRA reassessed your taxes later to include it; and then you forgot to report it again in 2020. The penalty is

20% of the amount of income not included.

So that $500 not reported on your 2020 tax return will be assessed a penalty of $100. That’s a very high penalty, so make sure you report your income accurately each year!

If we filed your taxes and you realize later that something was missed, contact us as soon as possible to we can make the corrections.

If you are self employed, your tax filing deadline is June 15 2021; but file your taxes the sooner the better!

Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and Certified Financial Planner; living, working, and volunteering in our community. Contact us at 204.422.6631 or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Co-op) or Info@SAtaxes.ca.

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May 2021

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Manitobans Encouraged to Take Precautions to Minimize Risk of Tick Exposure May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month and public health officials with Manitoba Health and Seniors Care remind Manitobans that tick-borne diseases are preventable. People can protect themselves by performing regular tick checks after spending time outdoors, knowing where blacklegged ticks may be found, minimizing their risk of exposure, and recognizing the signs and symptoms of tick-borne diseases. These precautions will help protect against anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Lyme disease.

Manitobans are reminded that when outside, it is still important to practise physical distancing according to current COVID-19 public health guidelines. For more information, visit www.manitoba.ca/covid19.

Blacklegged ticks, which can carry anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Lyme disease, are most commonly found within and along the edge of forests and in areas with thick, woody shrubs and other vegetation. These ticks are typically found from early spring when snow melts through late fall, with peaks in adult activity in the spring and fall.

Manitoba’s new eTick program helps monitor and assess the continued expansion of the blacklegged tick populations. Manitobans can use eTick when they find ticks on animals, humans or in various habitats. They can submit a picture to have the tick identified by experts, which will let them confirm if the tick they found belongs to a species capable of transmitting tick-borne disease. To submit a picture of a tick visit www.etick.ca.

Limiting exposure to potentially infected blacklegged ticks, particularly the smaller nymphs who are active during the late spring and summer months, is the key to tick-borne disease prevention.

Manitobans are encouraged to take precautions to minimize their risk of tick exposure by: • applying an appropriate tick repellent, following label directions, on exposed skin and clothing; • inspecting themselves, children and pets after spending time outdoors; • removing ticks as soon as possible from people and pets; • staying to the centre of walking trails; • wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts; and • keeping grass and shrubs around homes cut short to create drier environments that are less suitable for blacklegged tick survival.

Symptoms of anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Lyme disease can be found at: www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/tickborne/index.html.

People who think they may have anaplasmosis, babesiosis or Lyme disease should contact a doctor. For more information, they may also contact Health Links–Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or (toll-free) 1 888 315-9257.

To learn more about blacklegged ticks, tick-disease and prevention, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/tickborne/.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Outdoor Safety for DIY Projects Many of us are spending a lot of time at home and taking on outdoor projects. Before you build that new deck, shed, fence, or tree house this summer, consider the location and be sure it doesn’t restrict access to the gas meter or emergency gas valve. The utilities should not be located under decks, gazebos or inside garages.

Don’t forget to look up and note the location of any overhead power lines in the work area. Keep yourself, equipment and structures at least three metres away.

Before your shovel hits the dirt, contact ClickBeforeYouDigMB. com or call 1-800-940-3447 to request a locate for underground electrical and natural gas lines.

Allow at least three full work-

ing days for the service before you begin any project. Knowing what’s below will prevent serious injury to people, damages to your property and to underground lines. Be sure your work crew is aware of markings that indicate underground services and follow the recommended digging procedures for safety close to lines.

Once you have mapped out the appropriate areas, inspect your power tools and accessories thoroughly.

Check for wear, breakage and loose connections. Make necessary repairs and invest in any new tools you may need. Ensure your tools are properly grounded with a three-prong plug.

Use a GFCI outlet outdoors and never operate electrical tools in wet conditions.

If you will use an extension cord with your tools, be sure it’s right for the job. Use an extension cord that’s rated for outdoor use and match the wattage and amperage with the tool.

Check cords for damage and loose plugs. If a cord feels warm while in use, discard and replace it. Remember that an extension cord is never a replacement for permanent wiring.

Don’t plug more than one highpowered tool into a circuit. When you finish using your power tool, never pull the cord from the outlet; pull it by the plug – this will prevent wear and possible shock. Test your GFCIs regularly to ensure they are providing the protection you require.

Visit hydro.mb.ca/safety for more information.

Be Wildlife Smart

Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development is advising that if you encounter wildlife that appears sick, injured or orphaned you should contact a conservation in the local district office or call the toll-free TIP line.

Wildlife encounters can take many forms and sometimes wildlife may seem to need our help.

A young animal without a parent nearby may appear to be orphaned or it may actually have a parent nearby. Parents are typically very protective of their young and could become aggressive if they return and find you near their young.

When you encounter wildlife that appears as if it could be orphaned, remember these points: - Do not attempt to approach or capture the wildlife as your approach could jeopardize the animal’s well-being; - Note the animal’s exact location and the animal’s physical condition, if possible; - Contact a conservation officer to provide this information by calling the local district office, or call the toll-free TIP line at 1800-782-0076 and a conservation officer will determine the best course of action for the situation; and - Do not attempt to keep the animal as it is illegal in Manitoba to possess or rehabilitate wildlife without the proper permits.

Black Bears Finding a black bear cub alone does not necessarily mean it has been orphaned or abandoned.

Female bears have been known to leave their young cubs in a large tree while they forage nearby, sometimes up to three kilometres away.

The cubs may remain in the tree or play around its base, ready to climb up if they sense a potential threat.

White-Tailed Deer A white-tailed deer doe (mother deer) will often leave her fawn lying curled up and hidden in vegetation for extended periods of time (up to eight hours) while she feeds. This

behaviour assists in the fawn’s survival.

The doe’s absence allows her to obtain nutrients that assist with nursing and the doe’s activities can draw a predator’s attention away from her young. By interfering in this process, you reduce the chances for the fawn’s survival.

For more information on how to coexist with wildlife in Manitoba, visit: gov.mb.ca/fish-wildlife/wildlife/wildlife_human.

A white-tailed deer doe (mother deer) will often leave her fawn lying curled up and hidden in vegetation for extended periods of time (up to eight hours) while she feeds. This behaviour assists in the fawn’s survival. The doe’s absence allows her to obtain nutrients that assist with nursing and the doe’s activities can draw a predator’s attention away from her young. By Stock photo interfering in this process, you reduce the chances for the fawn’s survival.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2021

13

Lines and Pines: What to Plant and Where

Trees and shrubs that are properly placed and maintained in the landscape are a valuable resource for homes and communities. If you’re planning a landscaping project this spring, consider what is above, on and below the surface. What you plant today can grow into a hazard around power lines and natural gas lines.

Before selecting trees for your landscaping project, look up. Will the trees that you plant today become tangled in a power line in the future? A tree branch that touches a power line poses a serious safety risk, and can result in: - a shock hazard if a tree becomes energized from a power line; - a power interruption or fire; - a downed power line, causing a dangerous situation and power outage.

Report a downed power line or tree touching a power line to Manitoba Hydro at 204-480-5900 in Winnipeg or 1-888-MBHYDRO (1-888-624-

below before you dig will prevent 9376) elsewhere in Manitoba.

To help you make safe choices see Manitoba Hydro’s Right Tree When trees get close to power serious injury to you and damage to when planting trees and shrubs near – Right Place guide at hydro.mb.ca/ lines, they may have to be radically your property. power lines and other equipment, safety. cut back or even removed. Keep in mind that although shorter trees or shrubs planted under power lines do not directly interfere with the lines, they can create problems for maintenance crews by interfering with equipment movement and placement.

Tree roots can also damage underground electric and natural gas lines and sewer systems. Trees or shrubs planted too close to meters, transformers, and other utility units may prevent people from seeing them, increasing the risk of injury and damage to property and utilities. They can also create access problems for utility workers who need to read or service equipment, especially species with sharp thorns.

As part of your landscaping plan, request a line locate a ClickBeforeYouDigMB.com. Knowing what’s

Before you plant a tree, look up. If your tree looks like it will touch an overhead power line as it grows, find another location. Keep all plantings to a minimum of 2 metres back from a power line. Plant taller growing trees like willow, ash, maple, evergreen at least 6 metres back from a power line. Trees growing close to power lines can be fire hazards or bring down power lines.

It’s best to hire a certified arborist to trim or prune trees on your property. See www.hydro. mb.ca/safety/landscaping for videos and more info.

Submitted photo

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May 2021

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

St. Cyr Tours with Jeremy Camp

On May 1, Niverville musician Jordon St. Cyr will be on stage in Alabama at the First Baptist Church opening for well known Christian musician Jeremy Camp. This event is the first of eight concerts that St. Cyr is scheduled to perform while on tour with Camp in the US. “Excited about joining Jeremy Camp this spring and meeting some of you,” said St. Cyr. As the tour hits the road, St. Cyr is up for three music awards including Artist of the Year, Song of the Year and Male Artist of the Year for his song “Fires”.

“The support I’ve received from Christian radio has been overwhelming. Thank you all. For those who came on board at the very beginning all the way until now. It has been quite the ride,” St. Cyr added.

Incidentally, on April 19, “Fires” crossed the historic 1 million streams mark on Spotify. Last summer, St. Cyr released “Fires” a song inspired by his daughter. The single has received airplay on forty-one stations in Canada and the US. “Fires,” written by St. Cyr along

Niverville Christian musician Jordon St. Cyr is hitting the road with Jeremy Camp on an eight show tour throughout the United States.

Submitted photo

with Micah Kuiper and Krissy Nordhoff, is the title track to his upcoming album.

St. Cyr, a husband and a father of two boys and two girls, shares, “Fires is a song that has become an anthem in our house. It has helped us heal and is giving us a new perspective on pain and suffering.”

He wrote “Fires” two years ago while on a trip to Nashville with the Full Circle Music Academy writing camp. He was inspired by a young man named Nathan who attended

the Academy’s writers-in-the-round event, working as a valet as well as holding down two other jobs to make ends meet.

With the song continuing to be heard on stations across the country, he concludes, “The depth at which ‘Fires’ has resonated with hearts across the country has been amazing to see. This song is reminding people of the courage they have in Christ to walk through the battles they are fighting knowing He is walking right alongside them.”

Consultation Opens on Louis Riel Bridge Improvements The Manitoba government is giving residents an opportunity to participate in online discussions pertaining to improvements to the Louis Riel Bridge on Provincial Road (PR) 305 in Ste. Agathe.

According to Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler the province is looking for public feedback on the new proposed bridge on PR 305 over the Red River, near the community of Ste. Agathe.

“We want to ensure that our design not only maintains a safe, long-term crossing, but also balances the interests of citizens and businesses in the area,” said Schuler.

The existing bridge was built in 1959 and serves as a vital link to Provincial Trunk Highway (PTH) 75 that helps connect people, businesses and agricultural land on both sides of the Red River, noted Schuler.

The Manitoba government has initiated a preliminary design study to identify and develop options for extending the service life of this bridge crossing. Public input is now being requested to better understand the effects of the project and gather feedback on the options being considered from the community.

To take part in the engagement, visit engagemb.ca until May 13.

Expect the Unexpected – Be Prepared!

Would you and your family think clearly and logically in a crisis? Not many of us could. That’s why it’s important to think about your family’s personal emergency response now, so you’re ready if a severe weather event or other emergency happens in your community.

Have a Plan What if you’re not all together when an event occurs? Keep emergency phone numbers handy, plan where to meet and how to contact one another. Discuss what you would do in different situations. Include a plan for your pets, for special health needs, if you must evacuate, and how to shut off utilities, if necessary (hydro, gas, water).

Prepare an emergency supplies kit In an emergency, you may need to get by without electricity or tap water. Put together a well-stocked emergency kit that will keep everyone in your home self-sufficient for 72 hours. Keep your kit in a spot where your family can easily access and use it – even in the dark.

At minimum, your kit should contain: - Flashlight (extra batteries) - Hand-crank or battery-powered radio - Mobile phone (battery-pack and car charger) - First Aid kit and prescription medication

- Hand-sanitizer and personal care items - Multi-tool or small tool kit - Candles and matches (use with caution) - Bottled water (2 litres per person, per day) - Canned or dried food and pet food if needed - Manual can-opener - Extra blankets or sleeping bags - Whistle - Disposable plates and utensils, trash bags - Games and playing cards to keep your family occupied For more information, download a copy of our Emergency Preparedness Guide at hydro.mb.ca.

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MP Falk Seconds Bill to Counter Child Sexual Exploitation Ted Falk, MP for Provencher, has seconded a bill to protect to make important changes to the Criminal Code to counter the sexual exploitation of minors.

Introduced by Conservative MP Pierre Paul-Hus, Bill C-277, proposes to amend the Criminal Code in the exploitation and trafficking in persons to strengthen existing federal law by implementing consecutive sentencing provision for human trafficking; adding crimes of sexual exploitation to the proceeds of forfeiture mechanism; eliminating preliminary inquiries related to the prosecution of sexual exploitation of minors and human trafficking offences; and requiring the Minister of Justice to provide law enforcement with more effective legal tools to obtain evidence of sexual crimes committed against minors and committed online in cyberspace.

“Every day, hundreds of children are sexually exploited online,” said Falk. “To get justice for survivors, law enforcement authorities need better tools to respond and obtain evidence of crimes committed online.”

The proposed changes were recommended unanimously by the Select Committee on the Sexual Exploitation of Minors of the Quebec National Assembly. Organizations engaged in the fight against child sexual exploitation have also lent their support to the bill.

“Ending child sexual exploitation requires urgent action,” Falk added. “Securing the safety of our youngest Canadians is something all Canadians can get behind.”

Falk Seconds Bill to Address Rural Crime Sentencing Ted Falk, MP for Provencher, has seconded a bill to help address the rural crime crisis plaguing communities across Canada.

Bill C-289, introduced by Conservative MP Blaine Calkins, will toughen measures for criminals who victimize rural Canadians by creating an aggravating factor at sentencing for targeting people and property because of their remoteness or distance from emergency medical or police services. It also expands the existing aggravating factor for home invasion to include outbuildings, such as barns and shops, and allows the aggravating factor to be triggered by the presence of a weapon.

“One of the recurring concerns I hear from rural residents is about the level of crime taking place in our communities,” said Falk. “Provincial governments, including here in Manitoba, have taken important steps to tackle this problem. But the federal Liberal government has failed to do its part. Bill C-289 is an important step forward to protect rural Canadians.”

In 2017, crime was 36% to 42% higher in rural areas than in urban areas across the prairies, including Manitoba. In the Police-reported crime statistics in Canada, 2019 released in October of last year, Manitoba saw increases in assaults, sexual assaults, child pornography, fraud, breaking and entering including theft from farms, or stolen tools and equipment from sheds which are just a few of the experiences southeast Manitobans have faced. While these figures have trended downward during COVID-19, the lived experience of rural residents remains unchanged.

“Rural Canadians are being targeted by criminals, including organized crime, because they know law enforcement response times are longer in rural regions,” Falk added. “This bill turns the tables by targeting those who target rural Canadians.”

Falk Seconds Bill to Stop Foreign Aid from Funding Hostile Governments Ted Falk, MP for Provencher, has seconded a bill to protect Canadian tax dollars from getting into the hands of hostile foreign governments.

Bill C-287, introduced by Conservative MP Garnett Genuis, changes the Official Development Assistance Accountability Act to require that Canadian aid dollars align with the promotion of international peace and security.

“Canadian foreign aid is a critical tool to support vulnerable people around the world,” said Falk. “We need to ensure that Canadian tax dollars spent on international development assistance are aligned with Canadian values.”

According to Falk, a key objective of the bill is ensuring that Canadian aid is never used to advance the interests of foreign governments that seek to extend their influence, undermine democratic values, or undermine freedom and sovereignty in developing countries.

“Unfortunately, we’ve seen examples, like the Liberal government’s funding of the China-led Asian Infrastructure Bank where tax dollars help a foreign government expand its influence and export its model of authoritarianism,” said Falk. “This has to stop.”

Falk hopes the bill will receive support across party lines when it comes up for debate.

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May 2021

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Be in a Place of Peace In these troubled times of unrest on every level, where do you go to find personal peace and rest? Years ago, common greetings included, “Peace be unto you,” “Peace be on this house” or “Go in peace.” But peace seems to be rare in our society today.

The Bible talks about events that will occur in the last days, and I believe we are fast approaching this time. Matthew 24:6-7 says, “And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars...For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earth quakes, in diverse places.” The above passage was written 2,000 years ago, but kind of sounds like today’s news reports.

Luke 21:26 describing the same time period says, “Men’s hears failing them for fear.” There is more world-wide fear today than at any other time on earth, and that fear affects our physical body and our emotional state.

What many people don’t realize is that circumstances should not dictate your level of peace. True lasting peace comes from the God of heaven. He gives it to His children when they are leaning on Him and trusting Him. Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” This verse says that all people that come to God through His Son, Jesus Christ, now have access to a peace that other people cannot even understand.

If you have confessed all your sins to God and are trusting in the blood of Christ to take away all those sins, you don’t have to live in fear. God is a sovereign God and has everything under His control (even though it may not look like it from a human viewpoint). All those who have trusted Christ as their Saviour will have their final home in heaven with God. All those who are responsible for causing the fear and anxiety in our world today and are not God’s children will end up in their final home, the lake of fire (Hell).

So if you’re not a child of God yet, turn to Him today. Then you can have the peace of God as well.

I will leave you with the same closing that the Apostle Paul left in his letter to the Romans (Romans 15:33), “Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.” Don’t rest till you have found that peace!

50/50 For Kids!

Thank you for your support!

This past month we ran our 50/50 For Kids fundraiser with SteinbachOnline. The Grand Prize Draw was held on Wednesday, May 5 at 10am. Check our 50/50 social media on Facebook and Instagram @ steinbacharts5050 and Steinbach Arts 5050 to find out who won!

Funds raised help support our After School Arts Program – ASAP. Our ASAP program provides a calm and comfortable setting where youth can participate in visual arts, music, theatre, or dance with our artists and instructors.

South East Open Judged Exhibit SAC’s open exhibit will be open to the public from April 19 – May 20 and will showcase the artistic talent in our community. We invite you to enjoy local artwork from every medium and skill level in our 23rd annual SOJE exhibit. You can also view the exhibit online and vote for your favorite artwork.

Planning for Music Lessons this Fall?

The Southeast Centre for Music has highly qualified instructors in piano, voice, violin, cello, guitar, musical theatre, music theory, and

music therapy. As part of the Steinbach Arts Council’s educational offerings, SCM strives to meet the teaching needs of our community, reaching the high level of musical education that has become an expectation in the Southeast.

Whether you are a child or adult, beginner or advanced student, SCM works to find the teacher that is right for you and provides learning and performing opportunities for all musicians who study here. Read all about our teachers on our website, and let us help find the right music instructor for YOU!

Secure Your Spot at SAC’s Summer Arts Day Camps The ever-popular Summer Arts Day Camps are back and your chance to save is now.

Gain access to the most soughtafter creative summer camps in Steinbach and experience music, drama, dance, crafts, games, sports, field trips, swimming, and of course, new friends.

Early Bird Registration saves you 10%, between May 3 and May 31.The Summer Arts Day Camps run weekly from July 5 to August 21 and feature a variety of themes for age groups 5-8 and 9-12. Each week we will explore science, community, culture, and more with this year’s amazing themes: Life on the Farm - (July 5-9, *ages 5 – 8 only) Where does our food come from? How do plants grow? What noise does a happy cow make when it is talking to a grumpy pig? Explore the life of a farmer through the wonderful world of arts!

Once Upon a Time- (July 12-16, *ages 5 – 8 only) Once upon a time in a land far,far away! Call-

ing all princesses, princes, and fairy god people join us for a week of art, dance and drama as we explore the arts through the world of fairy tales.

Rockets, Space, and Aliens - (July 19-23) Space: the final frontier!

Climb aboard the spaceship arts camp as it travels around the galaxy exploring all the different realms of arts and have fun doing wacky science experiments!

Knights, Wizards, and Dragons(July 26-30) A wise old man has given you a map and a grand quest.

You will face evil wizards and furious dragons. Will you take up your sword and join us on this adventure? Explore a world of dwarves and goblins through the arts. On this quest we will learn about how to navigate the challenges on your journey through life.

Saving the Day - (Aug 3-6, 4 days only) It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s Superman! Calling all superheroes!

The world needs your help! Learn how to fight crime and what you can do to be the best hero you can be and make the world a better place.

The Olympics - (Aug 10-14) On your marks, get set, go! Around the world everyone shares a love for sports and competition. Join us on a journey around the world through the excitement of sports!

The Wild Wilderness- (Aug 17-21) Get out of the city and into the wild wilderness. Learn about all the plants and animals that make up the natural world around us. Connect with nature through the arts and learn how you can help keep the world safe and clean.

One day, each week is spent at AD Penner Park and the Steinbach Aquatic Centre. Each camp offers a limited number of spaces on a firstcome, first-served basis. Register soon as these popular camps fill up fast! The Early Bird discount ends May 31.

Register online at steinbacharts.ca, at the SAC Office –Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre, 304 Second Street, or by phone at 204-346-1077.

For more information: Roxie Penner, SAC phone 204-346-1077 or email Roxie@steinbacharts.ca.

SAC Looking for Performing Artists The Steinbach Arts Council is launching its 2021 KR Barman free “Concerts in the Park” series and is looking for artists to share their talents with the community.

Applications are open to bands, soloists, dancers, choirs, and artists of all kinds. Local musical and theatrical performers are invited to apply to perform this May and June at the KR Barman Park on Main Street. It is a great opportunity to perform in one of the City’s most beautiful outdoor venues and build a summer audience.

Visual Artists are invited to

showcase their artworks and create on site, during these concerts in the park. All Artists may sell their merchandise in the park during the show.

The KR Barman Park on Main Street is a centralized location that brings new and existing fans together.

The Steinbach Arts Council is delighted to continue this summer tradition of featuring local and guest artists and bringing our community together in celebration of music and arts.

“We are pleased to offer this concert series free of charge for the pub-

lic. The Steinbach Arts Council will provide the venue, pay the park rental and electricity costs; assist with a sound system and technician and marketing and promotions,” said the announcement.

Concerts run Thursdays to Sundays, from May 27 to June 27, with a detailed date list available on the website.

Until April 15 artists can fill out their preferred dates on the application form, on a first come, first served basis. For more information visit SteinbachArts.ca to apply or call 204-346-1077 for details.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2021

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Why Not Give It a Try?

Memberships 2021 memberships available for $25 per person. Join now to enjoy our member’s benefits!

PAINTING CLASS Thursday, May 20 at 1:30 pm join local artist Doug Enns for a Zoom paint class! We will be painting dragonflies (as pictured). All skill levels are welcome and supplies are provided. Supply package includes: paint (red, green, white, black, yellow), 1/2” brush, #4 brush, sponge, paper, utility knife. Packages can be picked up at the Centre or delivered for a fee. Costs: $20 for members and $25 for non-members. Call 204320-4600 to register, space is limited.

VICTORIA LUNCH Fish and Chips Special Lunchtime Meal on May 21! This special meal from our Meals on Wheels Program is delivered straight to your door for only $7! Available for delivery within Steinbach or pickup at the Centre.

Order must be placed by 4:00 pm on Wednesday, May 19. Please call 204-320-4605 to order COVID Popup Clinics Appointments are required for these sites, and can be made by calling the vaccine call centre at 1844-626-8222 (1-844-MAN-VACC) from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily.

Have your health card ready. www. gov.mb.ca/covid19/vaccine/clinics. html BREAST CANCER SCREENING April till May 12th CancerCare Manitoba’s mobile mammography clinic is hitting the road and parking at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre for the months of April and May. Use this opportunity to get screened and make sure you’re healthy for many years to come! Screening is offered on an appointment only basis. Please call 1-855-952-4325 to make an appointment.

PPALC COOKBOOK Share your recipes with us! We’re making a cookbook and we need your help! Do you have a recipe with a special story? We are looking

to put together a cookbook featuring recipes (and their associated stories) submitted by you! Share your favourite recipe and include a story. For example, tell us where it came from, the first time you made it or anything else you’d like to say! Types of recipes are not limited. You may submit main dishes, snacks, baked goods or desserts. To submit a recipe you may drop it off at the Centre or email communications@patporteralc.com.

It would be great if you included a photo of the finished product also!

We look forward to seeing your delicious recipes!

INCOME TAX SUPPORT Get your taxes done early! If you need help filing your taxes, the Centre has become a verified partner with Community Financial Counselling Services. This means you can come to the Centre, fill out a form package and we will forward it to CFCS. For more information give us a call at 204-320-4600 or stop by the Centre. You can also visit https://cfcstaxes.com/ to complete the forms on your own.

Potato- Cheddar PEROGIES Freshly made and for sale! Handmade by staff at the Centre, these perogies are delicious and ready to be enjoyed. $6 per dozen. Please call 204-320-4600 to order.

PEN PALS Letter writing fun! Pat Porter Active Living Centre in collaboration with the Shine Homeschool group is looking for people interested in participating in a pen pal program.

Those interested would exchange letters with students from the group on a regular basis. This group of young and bright students frequently volunteers at the Centre and would love to chat with you. Sign up and make a new friend! Please call 204-3204600 or email communications@ patporteralc.com if you would like to be added to the mailing list.

FIRESIDE STORIES Tuesdays and Fridays at 1 pm on Facebook! Grab a cup of tea/coffee and get cozy every Tuesday after-

noon at 1 pm as Meg and Cathy from our Circle of Friends program read from the Stuart McLean collection.

Join us live on Facebook/patporteral at 1 pm or watch later on your own time.

PPALC 2021 CALENDARS Featuring local photographers!

Come grab a calendar for 2021! Featuring beautiful photographs submitted by local photographers. $5 each and available for pickup at the Centre. Give us a call at 204-320-4600 to order one today!

CENTRE CLOSURE The Pat Porter Active Living Centre will be closed to all non-essential programming and services until further notice. We are following the public health authority recommendations and encouraging you to stay home as much as possible and make sure we all reduce our contacts. This is for your safety, my safety and the safety of all of our loved ones. This is a community effort and we can do this!

We will remain open for essential services: Meals on Wheels in Steinbach and Grunthal will remain open for meal delivery only, please make sure you call by 9:00am if you would like to order a lunch.

If you need help with shopping, mobility equipment or transportation call to make arrangements for us to provide assistance.

If you, or someone you know just needs someone to talk to, please call us 204-320-4600 and one of us will gladly spend some time with you.

Staff will be at the Centre from 9am-4pm if you need support or assistance. Please feel free to call and we can assist you. We are here for you!

We are in this together and we will come out of this together. Stay safe, stay healthy and stay home!

For more information on our programs, activities or volunteer opportunities. Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. call Sonja at 204-3204603 or the reception desk at 204320-4600 (Fax 204-320-9098).

Titus 3:1-7… 1) Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2) to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.

3) At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4) But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5) he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6) whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7) so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. (NIV) Should I be bold enough, and claim to be a Christian, well, then I ought to be a good Christian! My Bible even says that I am not to slander anybody. It also teaches that I should not be crabby, grumpy, snappy, and the like, because if I am, that means I will be quarrelsome. Now, who in their right mind wants to be quarrelsome, especially when we do some ill-advised things ourselves? Then it goes on to say that I am to show a gentle spirit and leave that rough language in the trash bin where it belongs.

Here is another thought that just came to me. You know, when I am admonishing a person, it is strange, and I have noticed this many times before… the very thing that I accuse them of is also my area of weakness. I guess that means I am trying to cover up my foolishness, trying to make myself look good when really, I am not that pure myself. That is being foolish.

Notice in those verses that you/we just read that we are to be obedient to the rulers and authorities. Whoa!! That is tough sometimes. Yep!! There are times when you could let loose with all barrels and let that so and so have it. But that is not what the Bible teaches. Remember you and I belong to this human race and we should behave in a civilized way.

Another thing that needs our attention… It says that we are to be ready to do whatever is good. Well, sometimes I do not want to be highly active in the service of my community. That might even sound a bit selfish. I am thinking that others should do all the work in the church or the community. However, when we are busy doing things for others life becomes interesting.

We do not always find it easy to apologize to certain people, to tell them that they were wrong. It is tough to take advice from someone with rude manners. You want to avoid mistakes, you want to learn from your mistakes, and you want to remember that the Bible teaches that we are to forgive, and then it even goes so far as to say that we are to forget the ill that has been done to us.

However, having said that, the Bible also teaches that Jesus Christ saved us, not because we were such good people/folks, but because of His kindness because He took pity on us and washed away all our sins and sent the Holy Spirit to live in our heart. Who, by the way, Jesus poured out upon us because of what He had done on the Cross; He died a sinner’s death for you and me?

All the things we have talked about are true and we should rightly insist that our Christian friends be aware of those truths. This will encourage us to be careful. I would think they will do good deeds as well. This is not only the right thing to do, but you know what? It brings good results.

Why not give it a try?

To God Be the Glory Great Things He Has Done.

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

Discover Treasure Along the Dawson Trail

By Marianne Curtis With pandemic restrictions keeping families close together, now may be the perfect time to explore the historic Dawson Trail.

A small but dedicated group of volunteers have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring vision to life by creating an arts and heritage tour. Spokesperson Pierrette Sherwood said this is a grassroots initiative to create a self-guided Heritage tour along the historic Dawson Trail.

“Both activities increase awareness and community pride, and generate tourism and economic growth,” Sherwood explained. “With our website as your guide, uncover the people, places, stories and events that helped shape our province and country.”

The Dawson Trail Art Tour is a free, self-guided tour that offers the public an opportunity to visit professional artists in their home studios along the Dawson Road from Richer to Lorette. There are fifteen artists participating from both the RM of Tache and Ste. Anne.

There are twenty-eight locations to explore as part of the Dawson Trail Heritage Tour. This aspect of the adventure brings to light the natural, cultural and historic legacy of the Dawson Trail, Canada’s first all-Canadian route linking the early Dominion of Canada to the West. Key points of interest are highlighted with rich accounts of the everyday heroes who lived, worked and travelled this road over time.

Dawson Trail MLA Bob Lagasse

endorsed the project by saying: “The Dawson Trail is a connector. It connects people to people, communities to communities, and our present to

our past. We’ve been travelling the how far we’ve come.”

Check out dawsontrailtreasures.ca Dawson Trail for 150 years. It runs deep within our history and our cul- to find out more and download tour ture, and serves as a reminder of maps.

There are twenty-eight locations to explore as part of the Dawson Trail Heritage Tour. Check out dawsontrailtreasures.ca to find out more and File photo download tour maps.

18

May 2021

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

RCMP FILES If you have any information in regards to any item here you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Thief Loads Up with Apparel On February 19 around 1:45 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a theft from Marks Warehouse store in Steinbach after an unknown male stole $760 worth of products, 19 t- shirts and 1 pair of boots.

Video surveillance captured the suspect. The unknown male is seen on video loading up with t-shirts and replacing his boots in a box and walking out with a stolen pair of boots.

If you have information regarding this matter, please call Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-4452, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-2228477, or secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Thieves Hit Multiple Jobsites On April 12 Steinbach RCMP received a complaint from Fast Brothers Ltd. of theft over $5,000. At approximately 7 am, the crew foreman for the jobsite on the Northside of Ash Street in Mitchell found the site trailer had been broken into. The theft would have occurred between Friday, April 9 and Monday, April 12. Items stolen were a Stihl Quickcut Saw s/n 187979074 ($1,500); Husqvarna Chainsaw s/n EHVXS0715AE ($600); Spectra 422 Laser and Kit ($3,000) and a handheld toolbox full of tools ($500).

At the same time, the crew foreman for a jobsite in Sarto reported that when he arrived at the jobsite at 7:30 am, a Utility trailer was missing.

The trailer had been dropped off the night prior. The stolen items from the jobsite are a Utility Trailer with License Plate 702BF ($2,000); 2 slip tanks full of fuel ($1,500); 1,500L of diesel ($2,000); fuel pump ($300); battery ($200) and a case of oil ($150).

Anyone with information regarding this matter is asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-4452, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1800-222-8477, or secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Chevy Trailblazer Stolen from Driveway On the morning of Monday, April 19 between 6 am to 6:30 am a Grey 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer bearing the Manitoba licence plate EZL904 was stolen from a residence on Ashford Lane in Steinbach.

If you are a witness or have information on this occurrence, please call Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-4452, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers. com.

RCMP Vehicle Struck by Impaired Driver On the evening of April 19, Steinbach RCMP were patrolling for a vehicle after receiving reports that the driver may be impaired.

While driving northbound on Old Tom Road in Steinbach looking for the possibly impaired driver, officers saw the vehicle coming towards them. The impaired driver was driving southbound, but swerved into the northbound lane, coming directly toward the police vehicle. The officer driving took immediate evasive action and veered to the right. The vehicle struck the rear driver side door of the RCMP vehicle.

The officers were uninjured in the collision and were able to exit the vehicle to check on the other driver. The 38-year-old male from Steinbach was uninjured, but showed visible signs of impairment. He was arrested at the scene. The male was over double the legal limit of 80 mgs of alcohol.

As this collision marks the second time in two days that a RCMP vehicle was struck by an impaired driver, the police would like to emphasize the dangers of impaired driving. Each year in Manitoba, the RCMP responds to approximately 45 deaths involving an impaired driver and 150 collisions where people are injured by an impaired driver. A small decision can have great consequences; make the choice to drive sober so everyone can stay safe on the road.

Drive By Shooting Leads to Charges In the morning hours of August 22, 2020, there was an altercation between two groups of males outside of the Marchand Hotel.

Approximately one hour later, at 3:39 am, the accused males in a vehicle drove by the Marchand Hotel and fired a shotgun out of the window as they went by.

An adult male outside of the business was injured as a result of the shooting. The RCMP and Steinbach EMS attended and the victim was transported to Winnipeg for treatment of his injuries.

The investigation has led to three adult males being arrested and pending charges. Arrested are a 20 and 22-year old males from the RM of La Broquerie and a, 21-year old male and from the RM of Ste. Anne.

Each of the accused are facing charges of Discharging a Firearm with Intent (to wound, maim/disfigure, endanger the life of a person under section 244(1) of the Criminal Code and Aggravated Assault under section 268 of the Criminal Code.

A risk assessment was completed and the accused males were released on a Court Undertaking with several conditions. They will appear in Steinbach Court in June.

The firearm has yet to be recovered and the investigation is on-going.

If anyone has specific information about this incident please contact the Steinbach RCMP at 204- 326-4452 or through Crimestoppers at 1-800222-8477 (TIPS), manitobacrimestoppers.com or by texting “Tipman” plus your message to 274637 (Crimes).

RCMP Advises Vigilance in Protecting Your Property From Break-Ins With warmer weather on the way, it is common for more break-ins to be reported to police. The RCMP wants to remind the public there are precautions that can help prevent such an occurrence.

Here are a few tips that can help keep your home safe. Close and lock doors and windows of your home and any vehicles on the property. Do not keep valuables in your vehicle. Secure belongings if you need to keep them outside, such as bicycles, scooters, lawn mowers, and ATVs. Keep trees and brush cut back to make your home visible from the street. If you are away, create the illusion of occupancy by making sure your mail is picked up, the yard is maintained, and lights are on timers.

Keep outdoor lights on, and consider installing motion lights around your home.

Do not hide spare keys outside your home and do not post any plans to be away from your home on social media. Also, consider investing in a monitored alarm system.

Public safety is everyone’s responsibility. If you see something, say something. Report any criminal or suspicious activity to the police. Protect yourself, protect your community.

RCMP ATV unit.

Submitted photo

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Knowledge and Safety Key When Riding an ORV Getting outside and enjoying Manitoba’s beautiful outdoors is longawaited and eagerly anticipated.

There are so many ways to spend your time outside, and one of those is riding off-road vehicles (ORVs).

While great fun, and a great way to explore Manitoba, it is important for riders to know the laws governing ORV use for everyone’s safety as well as everyone’s outdoor enjoyment.

Most of the laws around ORVs fall under the Off Road Vehicles Act. For details, please refer to the Act, but here are some general rules to keep in mind when riding an ORV: - Anyone under the age of 14 must have direct supervision of a parent or legal guardian who is a minimum of 18 years of age. Youth over the age of 14 can ride without parental supervision, but cannot cross a roadway until they obtain a valid driver’s licence.

- ORVs are not to be operated on roadways, shoulders, medians of divided roadways, or sidewalks.

- ORVs are permitted to be in the ditch, provided travel is in the same direction as vehicle traffic, the ORV is to the right of the roadway and the shoulder, and the ORV is being operated in an area where ORV use is permitted. Always remember to be on the lookout for hazards in the ditch, such as culverts, driveway approaches, and road signs.

No riding: - On privately owned or leased land without permission.

- Within 30 metres of a dwelling that is not yours between midnight and 7 am.

- Within 30 metres of a playground or area set aside for recreation that is not fully fenced.

- In a careless manner.

- Without reasonable consideration for other persons and property.

- Stay away from environmentally sensitive areas and wetlands, and areas easily damaged by churning wheels.

- When conditions are dry, use caution as sparks from an ORV can ignite grass and branches, starting a fire.

- Be aware of local bylaws in the area you are riding.

- Impaired driving laws apply to ALL motorized vehicles. Only operate an ORV when sober and alert.

The laws are in place to keep everyone safe. When not followed, people can get seriously injured. In 2020, RCMP in Manitoba responded to seven fatal collisions involving ORVs and 46 collisions where serious injury occurred. Contributing factors in these collisions included speed, no helmet, impaired driving, and driver inexperience.

Knowledge and safety are key, so make sure you are aware of the rules in place in the area where you are riding. Be respectful and courteous of others using the outdoors, and enjoy the ride!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Sprague RCMP Urges Safety Around Tracks The Sprague RCMP have issued a reminder to people heading outdoors to walk with families and pets to stay off the railroad tracks.

With weather starting to warm up, more people are outdoors and looking for places to walk with their families, or pets. Sprague RCMP are reminding the public that the railway tracks are not a safe option.

“The railway tracks are not a safe option,” stated Cpl. Richard Graham with the Sprague RCMP Detachment.

“We’ve received several reports in the last month of people either walking on, or along the tracks,” Graham explained. “According to the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, fifty-seven people were killed, and thirty-one people were seriously injured as a result of trespassing, or crossing railway tracks unsafely in 2020.”

“Not only is it unsafe, it’s illegal and you could be subject to fines,” Graham continued. “Contrary to popular belief, the Police don’t work on commission! We don’t want to hand out more fines than we have to!”

Graham urges parents to talk to their kids. “Trains move faster than they seem, and it takes only a moment of distraction to lead to tragedy. Parents talk to your kids, and set the example for them. Please stay off the tracks. We want everyone to stay safe this summer,” Graham concluded.

Amateur Artists Display Their Creations Come celebrate displays of art by amateur artists from all over the Southeast Region. This year showcases over 40 entries of juvenile and adult original local artwork featuring photography, pencil drawings, watercolour and acrylic paintings, sculpture, pottery, and so much more.

The Southeast Open Judged Exhibit is a highlight of Steinbach Arts Council’s (SAC) visual arts season, and all are welcome to view the exhibit at their centre or online at SteinbachArts.ca. Entry to the gallery is free, but donations are welcome.

Due to provincial gathering restrictions, SAC will not be holding a public opening ceremony. The People’s Choice vote will be available on the SAC website through the duration of the exhibit, with the winner announced at the exhibit’s close.

The Southeastern Open Judged Exhibit runs in-person and online until May 20.

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2021

19

Ready for Spring

The weather is starting to warm up and there is no snow on the horizon. I’m hoping that I don’t jinx it by saying it but, maybe our spring is truly here.

With this beautiful weather comes a whole bunch of tasks to do. This year, one of the first was to get the bicycles out of storage and check them over to make sure that they are ride ready, a little oil for the chains

and some air for the tires and away we went. The second spring time task at my house was to pull the trampoline out of storage and to set it up. While it is a quick and fairly easy task to accomplish, once it is set up we do let it stand until the next day to allow the materials to adjust to the outdoor temperatures and spring tension.

This month I’ll be getting out the tiller and mixing up the garden soil with some manure from last fall.

It’s hard to beat the transformation from the dull gray/brown soil to the rich black soil of a freshly tilled garden. It sure makes a man’s heart happy to see and it sure makes my wife happy to know that she’ll be planting in our garden soon. While the entire family is excited when the new, fresh little plants start

poking their green little shoots out of the soil, my children’s joy often turns to sadness when the memory of past years and the thoughts of this year’s weed pulling. If there is one thing that my children could do without, it would be the weed pulling.

Personally, I like to come home from work and hear that my children had to spend time in the garden pulling out the weeds and helping the garden flourish. I’d much rather hear them complain about the work that they had to do when compared to coming home from work and hearing about how they were bored all day or that they played video games all day.

With the newly arrived spring season also comes the joy of spring cleaning. While I’ve been work-

ing slowly over the winter months to dwindle the amount of clutter in my basement (as a couple of past ‘My Spinning World’ columns can attest to) there always seems to be more but, thankfully, there is less then when I started so it is good to see that improving. I did manage to come up with a system that I have begun to follow (and even managed to convince my wife to do as well) and that should make an even bigger difference in, not only our clutter, but in our entire lives. I will be writing about this in a future column as the program progress and can let you know about the results.

Be sure to get outside, breathe in the fresh air and to enjoy the outdoors!

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

20

May 2021

The Purge

The new, widely-watched Netflix sensation, calmly told me…

“Whatever you keep must give you Joy.” So on a mission I went, on my quest for Joy. Hanger after plastic hanger was stripped bare of old,

By Arlene Derksen new, big small, all that had lived in my closet through the lean years, the diet years, and all the other years in between. The pile on the king-size bed seemed to dwarf it as the quest continued.

The hours ticked away as I moved through each room of my house, determined to say goodbye to all that wasn’t necessary or useful… what that meant I didn’t always know. Night was falling and darkness filled the rooms I was purging as I had been so busy I’d forgotten to turn on the lights. By the end of a very long day, I had been somewhat successful; measured by what I’m not sure. Many bags and boxes later standing stoically by the door, my day of purging had come to an end. It felt so very good.

When we hold onto things in our lives that don’t serve a purpose any longer, the heart and mind become heavy and pay a price. It takes up too much space mentally and leaves less room to go freely about our day, week, and even life.

Hurts that leave a hole buried deep in the heart: purge.

Regrets carried for far too long looking backwards, keeping you hostage emotionally: purge.

Judgment of others and their hearts: purge.

Beliefs about ourselves… not good enough… too big, too small… purge.

Past mistakes that need to stay in the past: purge.

Needing to earn love: purge.

Relationships that don’t work anymore: purge.

And the list goes on.

Make a decision: strip those hangers of all that is heavy in your heart and mind. Toss the half empty bottles from yesteryear that don’t do the job anymore. Throw open wide those cupboards and dive deep.

Sit with your God awhile.

He is the master of the Purge.

Keep it only if it makes your heart sing and gives you Joy… And then… carry out The Purge.

In The Moment

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Producer Spotlight:

Eating Local in the Spring Spring – the season pantries and larders traditionally run bare, and due to our long winters, it’s still a lengthy wait until local produce is available. Or so we think.

Spring is actually an excellent season to enjoy local food. It may start out slow, but by the time the ground wakes up, a ton of variety becomes available. Vibrant color, freshness, and nutrition all factor in, making local spring fare exceptional quality.

Let us share just some of what you’ll find in our area during the spring.

Maple Syrup – Spring starts off with the maple sap flowing, usually by the end of March. If you have a maple tree in your yard, it’s a great time to try making your own syrup, which consists of tapping trees, collecting sap, and then boiling it down. Raw sap can also be enjoyed as a refreshing drink – both cold or in tea. If you can find a local source to purchase syrup, you are definitely in for a sweet treat. Not only delicious, maple syrup is also wonderfully high in minerals and antioxidants.

Greens and Herbs – Greens, like lettuce, kale, beet leaves and spinach, generally have a short growing season and you can find local sources early in the year. Onion greens are also quick to mature and a flavourful spring treat. Herbs, like parsley and cilantro, often grow well in cooler weather, and make zesty flavour for all your spring dishes.

Wild Edibles – Foraging for wild

Tapping local maples produces syrup.

edibles early in the season can be both enjoyable and gratifying. Some early favourites include stinging nettle and dandelion greens - both can be used in a variety of dishes as a replacement of other more wellknown greens. Stinging nettle can also make excellent tea. Also make sure to pick some roots in spring – roasted dandelion roots make nutritious and delicious tea or coffee replacement. You may also want to stock up on burdock root and yummy licorice-tasting sweet cicely root. Or search out some wild mushrooms - morels and oyster mushrooms can be harvested during this time of year.

Rhubarb and Asparagus – Tender and sweet, rhubarb and asparagus poke above ground almost as the snow leaves. Although both rhubarb and asparagus produce into the summer, there is nothing like their incredible flavour and texture early

Dandelion greens are a spring delicacy

in the spring.

Parsnips – Sweet and delicious in the spring, parsnips can be grown the year before, stored in the ground all winter and picked when the ground thaws. At a time when stored potatoes may be starting to sprout, parsnips become a yummy substitute.

Eggs and Milk from Outdoor-raised Animals – When chickens can freerange outdoors in spring, egg yolks transform from yellow to dark orange and the nutritional value of the egg increases in vitamins and omega 3s. The same is true for milk when cows (or goats) eat fast-growing spring grasses. Spring is a wonderful time to enjoy a local source of eggs and dairy from animals that range outside.

Along with all these delicious spring treats – the season also provides opportunity to plan ahead for local food all of summer by planting a garden, taking a course in foraging, ordering meat from a farmer next door, perhaps even buying yourself some chickens, and of course, finding a great farmers’ market to attend during the summer months.

Corner Farmers’ Market is held every third Wednesday of the month at Can-Am Corner near Stuartburn.

For more details, join our Facebook group and sign up to our email list.

The Producer Spotlight is brought to you by the Stuartburn FranklinSubmitted photos Emerson Local Food Initiative.

Spotlight on Local Species at Risk Now that spring weather is starting to settle in, the RM of Stuartburn Community Liaison for Species at Risk is shedding light on several of the at risk species that call southern Manitoba home.

Norm Gregoire, Community Liaison for Species at Risk (SAR) is thrilled that spring is finally here, noting that spring melt brings budding trees and green grass.

“Perhaps the most colourful part of spring is when migrating birds return to the southeast to breed, nest or just to pass by on their way north,” said Gregoire. “We are lucky enough to share a home with a variety of birds, including fourteen that are considered species at risk.”

This list includes the Golden-winged Warbler, a small songbird that is slowly but surely making its way here from as far south as Colombia.

Gregoire invites readers to learn more about the Golden-winged Warbler and other migrating species at risk, check out the new SAR YouTube channel. A link can be found on the RM of Stuartburn website.

“On this channel I’ll be providing more information in detail on all SAR found in the tall-grass prairie periodically,” Gregoire continued.

Bird watching is a fun, family friendly activity that gets you outdoors to enjoy the spring weather and shared with others around the world.

“I have downloaded the free Merlin app and

eBirds app to help ID birds and submit my sightings to the largest community science-based volunteer organization in the world,” Gregoire continued. “This “community science” data is critical for the experts as it helps to keep track of the movement and populations of our feathered friends.”

Gregoire has also created a SAR informational booklet that contains beautiful pictures of all twenty-eight of species at risk that reside or grow in the area, along with information about each. These booklets will be available in a selected area throughout the RM of Stuartburn or by contacting the RM office.

The Golden-winged Warbler is one of the many species at risk that make their home in the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve.

Submitted photo