Dawson Trail Dispatch November 2023

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Old-School Drive-In Movie Night Held at Lorette Marketplace

By Angelique Forest Recently, Lorette Co-op Marketplace transformed their parking lot into a family friendly Drive-In Movie venue. The event was made possible through the Co-op Kids Club.

“This year we had roughly 45 cars show up, mostly families so an audience of about 175,” said Roberta Swidinsky, one of the organizing hosts the event.

Since the event was held close to Halloween, organizers chose the family movie Transylvania: Transformania. Additionally, they hosted a costume contest for the kids and the winner got a big basket of treats.

This year the organizers invited Perk Coffee to come and craft special Halloween Hot Chocolates.

“We definitely want to continue having Drive-In Movie nights in the future,” said Swidinsky.

It’s not something most people have experienced in this day and age and a fun thing to do as a family, she added.

While Red River Co-op has hosted movie nights at some of their other stores, she pointed out that Lorette always has the biggest turn out.

“I think it’s a great thing for a smaller town,” she noted. “There’s a sense of community that you don’t quite get in the city.”

There was a costume contest for the kids and the winner got a big basket of treats.

Photos courtesy of Roberta Swidinsky

November 2023

You Could Win Up to $50,000 in ROC Eastman 50/50 Raffle Tickets are now on sale for the annual ROC Eastman 50/50 Raffle. For the past three years, they have sold out and their grand prize winners have taken home $50,000!

You can get your $5 tickets until Saturday, December 16 or until the tickets are all sold, whichever comes first. Only 20,000 tickets have been printed. Tickets can be purchased in-person at La Broquerie Lumber Rona, 1st Choice Convenience, Country Meat Deli and Super Splash or conveniently online at roceastman.ca/buy5050.

Additional to a grand prize winner taking home 50% of ticket sales up to $50,000, the raffle also has 3 Early Bird Prize Draws. These are a $500 Shell Fuel Gift Certificate to be drawn on November 6 at 12 pm, a $1,000 Meat & Gift Card Package to be drawn on November 20 at 12 pm and a $1,200 Sobeys Gift Certificate which will be drawn on December 4 at 12 pm. The Grand Prize Draw takes place on December 18 at 12 pm.

ROC Eastman noted that all Early Bird winning tickets will be returned to drum for all consecutive draws, including the grand prize!

Winners do not need to present at draw locations and will be contacted by phone/email as indicated on their ticket and posted on ROC’s social media and roceastman.ca. All draws will be live streamed via their social media.

All proceeds will go to ROC Eastman to help them continue providing services to reduce barriers to recreation participation for children living in the Eastman region of Manitoba.

The annual draw is open to Manitoba residents only. If you require further information please contact ROC Eastman at ROC5050@roceastman.ca.

November 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

2023 Poppy Campaign Underway

Canadian soldiers in trench.

The national Poppy Campaign is in full swing and the Steinbach Legion is taking up the challenge to ensure poppies are again front and centre until November 11.

Legion members were assisted by members of the Stoney Brook Air Cadet Squadron, Steinbach Guides, Mitchell Guides and Steinbach Scouts with the distribution of poppies and poppy boxes throughout the southeast.

Money raised by the Poppy Campaign is used to support Veterans and their families and other services that support Veteran’s health and well being. The Steinbach Branch has made generous donations locally over the years.

Some examples this past year were donations to STARS, PPALC Serving Seniors Inc., the Stoneybrook Air Cadet Squadron, Steinbach Scouts, Mitchell Guides and two donations of medical equipment to a veteran in need.

People and businesses may also contribute to the Poppy

File photo

Campaign on-line. Please visit legion.ca for details on this and other information on Remembrance including a list of all services across Canada.

This year’s Remembrance Day service will take place at Pat Porter Active Living Centre on November

Steinbach cenotaph.

11, starting at 10:45 am sharp.

The Steinbach Legion encourages people to arrive early as seating is limited. Following the service, people are welcome to attend the Steinbach cenotaph to lay a poppy and pay respects to our honoured veterans, past and present.

File photo

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

November 2023

Remembering the Purpose of Remembrance: A Personal Reflection

“The Sixteen” is part of a new Veteran’s Memorial installed in Richer’s Dawson Trail Park.

By Dan Guetre As the distance of time starts to blur the memories of those who paid the ultimate price for their country, it becomes more and more important to pass on the significance of November 11 to the newer generation.

The date, with its initial intent to nationally mark the end of the “Great War” as a reminder of the devastation we can bestow upon each other and the loss of friends, family and neighbours, has evolved to include the losses of the Second World War and the more contemporary conflicts between countries.

Over the years, no community has escaped the loss of someone.

With the national poppy campaign, the participation of the cadet cores, legions, and veterans, the reminders are still prevalent in our society for a day of Remembrance. But is the significance of those who sacrificed their lives and those who step forward today to serve really grasped by the newer generations?

In the community of Richer, a new veterans’ memorial was installed this November. With the help of the Steinbach Legion, Veterans Canada and a local group of veterans, it all came together to memorialize 16 men of the area who made the ultimate sacrifice

A custom bronze plaque was designed, poured at a foundry and installed in the Dawson Trail Park in Richer.

Submitted photos

and pay homage to all those that serve.

While being the son of both a father and grandfather who served, I still did not feel it was my place to dictate what this memorial should look like.

And while the veterans I consulted were humble in their input, I don’t think they realize how important the final look of the memorial will be to the community and visitors.

Having looked over the family names on part of the exhibit, I started to wonder about their descendants who still live in the region and how these families

are missing the cousins, second cousins and more due to the loss of their relative. On the other side, I saw family names I did not recognize. I have grown up in the area and these families are unknown to me. While some families may have moved and settled elsewhere over time, somewhere in my thoughts I pondered on whether the sacrifice this person made also put an end to the family being part of our community today. It is a sad thought and why it is important that their legacy be remembered and honoured.

While the community of Richer will have a small gathering to commemorate the new memorial, we encourage everyone to find a local Remembrance Day service. The communities of St. Pierre-Jolys, Steinbach, Whitemouth, Lorette, Ste. Anne and Niverville are just a few throughout the southeast.

I would welcome any information that people have of any of the 16 men we included in our memorial. Feel free to email me at editor@dawsontrail.ca.

November 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Headlines You May Have Missed…

While the attention of Canadians has been (quite understandably) focused on the terrible violence in Israel the past couple weeks, a lot has been going on in Ottawa. Here are few things you may have missed.

ArriveCan App: The RCMP has opened a criminal investigation into how the contracts for the ArriveCan app were awarded. There are allegations regarding identity theft, fraudulent forged resumes, contractual theft, fraudulent billing, price fixing, and collusion, all with senior bureaucrats with the Government of Canada. To make matters worse, like the SNC Lavalin scandal, the Trudeau Government, and their NDP counterparts, continue to try to cover up these alleged crimes.

Trudeau’s Trip: Justin Trudeau has, once again, misled Canadians about the costs of his lavish, taxpayerfunded vacations. Mr. Trudeau told Parliament his latest vacation cost $23,846. A bit of investigative work by Conservatives revealed the actual figure was nearly $230,000.

The fact the PM saw no issue in disclosing his four-day vacation cost the same as the annual take-home pay of a Canadian earning $40,000 during a serious cost-of-living crisis shows just how out-of-touch this PM is. That he, once again, misled

Parliament shows how little respect he has for Canadians.

Budget Deficit: The Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO) released his fiscal outlook. The report confirms what many Canadians already know: Our economy is “stagnate” and Canadians have no money left over to spend. This year alone the PBO predicts a $46.5 billion dollar deficit. The more Justin Trudeau spends, the more it costs Canadians, by pouring fuel on the inflationary fire. It’s time to reverse inflationary deficits and taxes and end the Liberal war on work by getting our nation’s finances under control and letting workers bring home more of what they earn.

MAID Extended: Last week, Liberal Members of Parliament voted against a Conservative bill to stop the expansion of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) to the mentally ill.

Our bill was supported by the disability community and the heads of psychiatry at every Canadian medical school. Once again, the Liberals are ignoring experts (and common sense) to advance their culture of death. Conservatives will stand with the vulnerable and their loved ones and keep fighting to delay this dangerous Liberal legislation.

India Dispute: Despite levelling

serious allegations against India— namely that India’s Government was behind the murder of a pro-Khalistan Canadian (which all parties agree is unacceptable)—Mr. Trudeau has yet to publicly produce any evidence to back up his claims. Both sides have expelled diplomats over the incident and there is talk of India freezing Canadian Visas. Canada continues to demand India co-operate in the investigation. However, the lack of evidence produced has few of our allies interested in backing Canada and risking their relationship with such a key ally and trading partner.

A new Conservative Government will protect Canadians from foreign threats by restoring respect for Canada on the world stage.

C-69 Ruled Unconstitutional: The Supreme Court has ruled Justin Trudeau’s “No More Pipelines Act”, Bill C-69, unconstitutional.

Conservatives warned the Liberals that their plans to steamroll provinces by giving themselves unprecedented power over provincial infrastructure, industry, and natural resources was unconstitutional— and would hurt Canadian workers.

Justin Trudeau and his radical activist Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault have made no secret of their desires to kill Canada’s natu-

ral resource industry and the paycheques it generates for workers.

Nine provinces and every territory demanded amendments to C-69 to address provincial jurisdiction concerns–Justin Trudeau ignored them. After eight years of Trudeau’s gatekeeping anti-pipeline and resource development policies hundreds of billions of dollars in project investments have fled Canada and taken away countless powerful paycheques for Canadian workers. Conservatives will continue to fight to repeal what’s left of this job-killing law. A common-sense Conservative Government will bring back investment, remove the gatekeepers so we can green-light green projects, bring home powerful paycheques, and make traditional and alternative sources of energy affordable and accessible for all Canadians.

Debating Bill C-50: Parliament has been debating Bill C-50, the government’s “sustainable jobs” plan.

This bill—like their so-called “Just Transition” plan—is the latest Liberal attack on our energy sector. The government’s anti-energy agenda is driving investment in both traditional and alternative energy away from Canada—ironically, crippling the very sector that provides the great-

est investments (and advancements) in alternative energy. This Liberal plan will directly kill 170,000 Canadian jobs, displace 450,000 workers (directly and indirectly) working in the energy sector, and risk the livelihoods of 2.7 million Canadians across all provinces in the sectors of energy, manufacturing, construction, transportation, and agriculture.

Conservatives believe Canada must develop both our traditional and alternative energy sectors. Environmental stewardship must be addressed with realistic, concrete, and effective measures. Conservatives believe in transformation, not transition; technology, not taxes; led by the private sector, not government.

Those are a few of the things going on in Parliament these days.

As MP for Provencher, I will continue to fight for your family, your wallet, and for common sense and accountability in Ottawa.

Honoured to Take Part in New Legislative Assembly On October 23, I joined my fellow members of the Progressive Conservative Party as we were officially sworn in as members of the Legislative Assembly. I am proud to have been given the opportunity to represent the Dawson Trail constituency once again.

It is an honour and a pleasure to be re-elected for this important job, and I want to thank everyone who put their confidence in me on Election Day. I am incredibly humbled by all of your support.

I’d also like to thank everyone who voted for any candidate in the provincial election in general. Thank you for taking the time to participate in democracy by exercising your right to vote.

I am excited to announce that I will be serving as the Shadow Minister for Mental Health and Francophone Affairs. I am dedicated to addressing the critical issues in these areas and advocating for the well-being of our constituents.

I would like to congratulate Premier Wab Kinew and the rest of the NDP for being elected as our provincial government for this term. I look forward to working collaboratively to explore ways in which we can continue to improve the lives of Manitobans.

On November 15, I will be joining my fellow MLAs in the House, as we mark the beginning of a new legislative session with a Speech from the Throne.

For more updates and information, visit my website at boblagasse.com. If you have any questions or concerns, 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!

Ewasko Advocates for Lac du Bonnet Constituency First of all, I’d like to express a huge thank you to the voters of the Lac du Bonnet Constituency for allowing me another mandate to serve as your MLA in the Manitoba Legislature. I would also like to acknowledge candidates Kathy Majowski for the NDP, and Blair Mahaffie for the Green party, for agreeing to put their names on the ballot. It takes a lot of time and commitment to run as a candidate whether it be provincial, federal, municipal, or school board. I thank them for their efforts.

Just recently, on October 23rd, I had the privilege of being sworn in as the MLA for Lac du Bonnet Constituency. I have also been given the role of PC Caucus whip and will serve as the Education and Early Childhood Learning Critic in the Shadow Cabinet of the Official Opposition.

As many of you know, the Lac du Bonnet Constituency covers a large geographical area. It spans from Victoria Beach in the Northwest all the way East to the Manitoba Ontario border taking in the Whiteshell and both Westhawk and Falcon Lake. It continues down the border past the number one highway and then zigzags Northwest back up to Beausejour, Tyndall and Garson. Within the Lac du Bonnet Constituency there are 10 municipalities, over 20 communities, and 2 school divisions. Even though I am honoured to represent the more than 23,000 permanent residents in the Lac du Bonnet constituency, between the months of April and October the population increases considerably as Lac du Bonnet Constituency becomes home to

nearly 200,000 seasonal residents and visitors.

My main role over the next four years will be to continue to advocate on behalf of our constituency by lobbying the NDP Government for increased services and infrastructure improvements to our rural communities and to hold them to account for their over $3.5 billion in promises made during the 2023 election. Premier Wab Kinew, stated that he would make good on those promises without raising taxes while balancing the budget.

As the Official Opposition our PC team will be keeping a close watch on those NDP promises and pledges.

In the years prior to the election, our PC government made historic investments into the healthcare system of nearly $7.9 billion.

We had attracted two thousand more healthcare professionals to Manitoba within in the last eight months. We were actively reducing the diagnostic and surgical backlog and we had dedicated a Minister for Seniors and LongTerm Care, which under the new NDP government no longer exists.

Our PC government lowered income taxes, raised the personal exemption to $15,000 and enhanced tax brackets for saving a two-income family over $1,250 next year. We created new and more affordable childcare spaces across the province including a maximum $10 a day in fees for regulated non-profit childcare centres. We increased school tax rebate checks to 50% saving the

average homeowner more than $770. We opened new personal care homes in Carmen, Niverville and Steinbach and had recently announced 6 more personal care homes to be built, with 4 located in the IERHA, including Lac du Bonnet. These were budgeted items that have been put into action. Promises Made and Promises Kept. We will see if Wab Kinew and is NDP government will do the same.

Thank you again for the electing me to serve you as your MLA! 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.

November 2023

November 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Centre of Canada Park Features New Exhibit Focusing on Heritage and History

By Dan Guetre

Pierrette Sherwood Sherwood explained. “The directional sign seemed like a fun way to draw interest to the historical places and visually, it worked both in terms of aesthetics and budget.”

The Centre of Canada Park has a new exhibit that both the Dawson Trail Arts and Heritage committee and the RM of Taché hope will not only attract visitors but leave them with some knowledge.

The Dawson Trail interpretive elements include a directional sign, maps embedded in picnic tables and various other pieces.

“It’s a perfect pit stop for our heritage tour!” said Pierrette Sherwood, chair of the Dawson Trail Arts and Heritage committee.

“What an incredible visibility for all communities along the historic trail.”

Sherwood is thankful for the partnerships formed to make this happen which include the RM of Taché, Centre of Canada Committee, PrairiesCan and CDEM. The location was always important to include in the committee’s project to re-invigorate people’s interest in the Dawson Trail and its significance in making Manitoba what it is today.

The road to creating this exhibit was not always an easy path.

“We had started talks to work with the Centre of Canada as our promotional anchor back in 2021,” explained Sherwood. “They were keen but not quite ready yet as their master plan had yet to be finalized.

We moved on to Deacon’s Corner and started a discussion with them to have the interpretive elements featured there. These talks were well on the way and approved but the CDEM came back to us at the eleventh hour to tell us that a grant received the green light for the Centre of Canada.”

With this news, Sherwood said they subsequently pivoted their attention from Deacon’s to the Centre of Canada.

“We were ready to go with most of our promotional materials at that point so everything just fell into place from that point forward,” added Sherwood.

Many hands were involved to create the concept to a finished exhibit including input from the RM of Tache and others.

“We have seen many proposals and toyed with a lot of different concepts and ideas in the making of our commemorative trail,” Sherwood explained. “The directional sign seemed like a fun way to draw interest to the historical places and visually, it worked both in terms of aesthetics and budget.”

She pointed out how a vinyl wrap on bear proof garbage cans “is the bomb in terms of wow factor and really dresses up what would otherwise be a pretty mundane accessory.”

“As for the picnic table design, our curator/historian Mireille Lamontagne, had been working this map for a while as we knew we would need one for promotional purposes so it seemed fitting that we should have it placed on the picnic tables,” she added.

“The idea of a map on the picnic table had first been planted in 2020 when we hired Blue Stem Landscaping to do some work for us. They had shared this idea as a concept and it stayed with us.”

The DTAH committee is happy with the final results.

“The [pieces] look fantastic and this will afford us an exceptional visibility with travelers and tourists from the world over!” said Sherwood “The graphic design and quality are second to none. We are very pleased!”

“We hope these interpretive elements will peak visitors’ interests and draw them in to find out more and explore our commemorative trail and neighbourhoods,” she added.

Sherwood noted that the RM of Taché has a tremendous asset at the Centre of Canada and her committee is immensely grateful to have the opportunity to showcase the Dawson Trail at the site.

“They understand the value of tourism and have been so supportive,” she said. “It’s a great gift for the Dawson Trail commemorative trail and all of the communities along the Dawson Road today to have a presence here.”

The park see thousands of tourists and travelers every year at this

site and “hopefully we can entice a few of them to explore our historic Dawson Trail and take advantage of many local services in their travels.”

“The RM of Taché and staff, including Council members, and Centre of Canada Committee, as well as CDEM have been exemplary partners and a pleasure to work with from the start,” said Sherwood.

Taché Mayor Armand Poirier couldn’t be happier with the journey it took to get to this stage.

“Taché has had a very long rapport with this committee,” he noted.

“Taché’s commitment to tourism is manifest through our support of this very important group.”

He added that council has supported their request for an annual grant and over the past couple of years, supported the decision to place markers to commemorate the history of the Dawson Trail in various locations in Taché.

He believes that Pierrette and her committee definitely deserve recognition for all their hard work. Earlier in the spring, Poirier nominated Pierrette to receive the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal Award and he pointed out her accomplishment in being named one of the four finalists under the volunteer category for a Provincial tourism award.

Our curator/historian Mireille Lamontagne, had been working this map for a while as we knew we would need one for promotional purposes so it seemed fitting that we should have it placed on the picnic tables,” said Pierrette.

A vinyl wrap on bear proof garbage cans “is the bomb in terms of wow factor and really Submitted photos dresses up what would otherwise be a pretty mundane accessory.”

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

November 2023

Southeast MLAs Focused on Keeping Government Accountable

By Dan Guetre Dawson Trail MLA Bob Lagassé and La Verendrye MLA Konrad Narth have both secured roles in the official opposition and will focus their efforts in sounding off for their constituents and keeping the government accountable.

Lagasse was named Shadow Minister for both Mental Health and Francophone Affairs and has hit the post-election period running.

“I have already started conversations and will continue to meet with stakeholders to help bring forward their priorities,” said Lagassé.

With his Shadow Minister duties, Lagassé says he has a list on the NDP promises and plans to hold their feet to the fire.

“The NDP government made many promises regarding health care and mental health is a big part of that,” noted Lagassé. “There were also promises to increase funding for French-language education at all levels, and being that my riding is comprised of multiple DSFM schools, I will ensure I keep them accountable on that and all of the investment promises.”

Following the PC loss, Lagassé is hopeful that many of the strides his government made over the years will not have been in vain.

“There were multiple initiatives that were put forward in our time in government and we are hoping the NDP will see value in them and continue to move these forward,” he said.

Being re-elected also comes with some self evaluation.

“I am humbled to have been elected once again to serve the constituents of Dawson Trail,” said Lagassé. “I will continue to work hard to see our communities grow and be the voice for the constituents.”

“My priority since being elected in 2016 has always been the constituents,” he added. “I have thoroughly enjoyed hosting my Coffee with Bob’s, meeting with constituents at my office, and seeing everyone out and about in the community.”

Konrad Narth is a new face on the Provincial scene winning his race as MLA in the constituency of La Verendrye.

As a rookie, he was not immune to securing some added duties while in opposition. He was appointed as both Shadow Minister for Sports, Culture, Heritage and Tourism and the Shadow Minister for Manitoba Liquors & Lotteries.

Even with these extra responsibilities, he quickly defined where his personal priorities are as MLA. “My focus first and foremost is my constituency,” he explained. “I represent one of the most progressive regions in Manitoba with some of the fastest growing communities.”

He sees the added responsibilities as both a challenge and an opportunity.

“Along with that brings many unique challenges but also many great opportunities to help grow and prosper our province,” he said.

“When legislature resumes I’ll be sure to make sure that government holds true to supporting community organizations and facilities along with continued support for tourism in our province. We have many great attractions, facilities, and organizations that contribute to the quality of live for Manitobans and also those who enjoy visiting our province.”

“We have many great attractions, facilities, and organizations that contribute to the quality of live for Manitobans and also those who enjoy visiting our province,” he added.

As for the Liquor and Lotteries, Narth believes the NDP government should take head of the sales structure that is in place in rural Manitoba, a system he says works.

“Liquor and Lotteries is a very important department of the government and should be managed with a great deal of responsibility,” he explained. “On the liquor side, we saw how disruptive something like strike action can be on distribution and sale of liquor across the province with the current model. We see a model in rural Manitoba that works to include private sale of liquor and Manitobans would like to see that expanded into the larger centers and cities.”

Narth said he will also make holding the NDP accountable when it comes to healthcare.

“During this last election campaign we heard many promises around

Healthcare in our province. Rural Healthcare is a highpoint priority if mine and I will be sure to hold the government to account on some of those Healthcare commitments,” said Narth. “We know that Healthcare staffing is the greatest challenge right now and I will be sure to hold the government to account for any spending they propose without solid plans in place with immediate results to address the fundamental challenges.”

As with any new MLA, Narth would have preferred his party to win the general election but he still feels he can be an effective voice in the Legislature sitting in the opposi- La Verendrye MLA Konrad Narth was appointed as both Shadow Minister for Sports, Culture, Heritage and Tourism and the Shadow Minister for Manitoba Liquors & Lotteries. tion.

“As much as I would have like to be sitting in government after winning my seat in La Verendrye I still feel very good,” he explained. “The role I serve now in opposition will give me the opportunity to learn more over the next 4 years and as a result be better positioned to be strong representation in government 4 years from now when we form government.”

Other MLAs re-elected in the southeast include Wayne Ewasko (MLA for Lac du Bonnet) who was appointed Shadow Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning and PC Party Whip, Kelvin Goertzen (MLA for Steinbach) who was named Deputy Leader and Ron Schuler (MLA for SpringfieldRitchot) who will sit as the Caucus Dawson Trail MLA Bob Lagassé was named Shadow Minister for both Mental Health and Chair.

Francophone Affairs and has hit the post-election period running.

Ron Schuler, MLA for Springfield-Ritchot will sit as the Caucus Chair.

Wayne Ewasko, MLA for Lac du Bonnet was appointed Shadow Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning and PC Party Whip.

Kelvin Goertzen, MLA for Steinbach was named Deputy Leader.

File photos

November 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Flu and Covid-19 Shots and Boosters Recommended

COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccines continue to be distributed across the province.The updated COVID-19 vaccine has been formulated to protect against the XBB.1.5 strain and the seasonal flu vaccine is updated annually to provide the best protection against the strains expected to be circulating this year.

Submitted photo

By Dan Guetre The Provincial government is encouraging all Manitobans to take advantage of the tools they need to help protect themselves, their families and the community during the respiratory virus season.

These include choosing to be immunized against COVID-19 and the flu, staying home when sick until they feel better and no longer have a fever, washing their hands or using hand sanitizer regularly, covering coughs and sneezes, choosing to wear a mask as an extra layer of protection and regularly cleaning and disinfecting shared surfaces and objects.

COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccines continue to be distributed across the province. The updated COVID-19 vaccine has been formulated to protect against the XBB.1.5 strain and the sea-

sonal flu vaccine is updated annually to provide the best protection against the strains expected to be circulating this year. It is expected that these vaccines will begin to be more widely available to members of the public in the coming weeks, though some sites may have stock earlier than others.

The online vaccine finder at gov. mb.ca/covid19/vaccine.html#finder is updated with new locations and clinic details as they are submitted to the province. There are many ways people can access their vaccines. Manitobans can contact many pharmacies and medical clinics directly to book an appointment or walk in. Vaccine clinics, including those operated by regional health authorities, generally use the online booking tool at patient.petalhealth.com/login?groupId=6032 or 1844-MAN-VACC (1-844-626-8222) to book. Walk-ins may also be available at these clinics.

Community clinics have been scheduled and some of the upcoming sites include the Richer Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd on Wednesday, November 8 from 4 pm to 7 pm and Ste. Anne Collegiate Gymnasium, 197 St. Alphonse Ave on Friday, November 24 from 3 pm to 7 pm. Multiple days are scheduled for Steinbach’s Pat Porter Active Living Centre, 10 Chrysler Gate. The dates are Saturday, November 4 (10 am – 4 pm), Monday, November 6 (12 noon – 4 pm), Tuesday, November 14 (1 pm – 7 pm) and Friday, November 17 (3 pm – 7:30 pm).

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

November 2023

Healthcare Staff Masked Up

By Dan Guetre Health-care staff working in Manitoba hospitals, personal care homes and other health-care facilities are now required to wear a medical mask during direct interactions with patients, residents and clients.

This came into effect in mid-October as both the annual Flu season rears its head and the potential for COVID-19 related infections come into play.

Staff providing care services operated by regional health authorities, including services in the community such as home care are also required to wear masks when providing care.

According to the public health officials, this approach will help reduce the risk of spreading a respiratory virus from a health-care worker

to a vulnerable patient, resident or client, particularly those who are more at risk of severe illness.

Masks will continue to be optional but recommended for visitors to health-care sites. They will be available at sites for people who wish to wear one. However, masks may continue to be required for visitors and other staff in locations where care is provided to highly immuno-compromised people, such as cancer units or within the transplant program. Signage will clearly indicate these requirements.

In an outbreak, health-care workers and designated caregivers will be required to follow existing protocols and procedures for use of personal protective equipment.

Public health officials note other community-based health settings,

Sprague RCMP Search for Missing Woman At 10:30 am on October 19, Sprague RCMP received a request to check on the wellbeing of a 70-year-old female.

Officers attended, searched her property and residence in the RM of Piney, but were unable to locate her.

Ywanna (Jean) Backman was last seen on October 13 but believe she may have been in contact with a friend on October 15.

The RCMP and her family are concerned for her wellbeing.

RCMP units including Search and Rescue (SAR), Police Dog Services (PDS), Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), along with the Office of the Fire Commissioner, the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA), volunteers from Winnipeg Search and Rescue as well as residents from the surrounding area, conducted an extensive ground search.

Ywanna Backman has yet to be located.

If you’ve seen her or have any information on her whereabouts, please call the Sprague RCMP at 204-437-2041, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Ywanna (Jean) Backman.

like doctors’ offices or supportive housing, will continue to be able to decide how and when masks may be used based on the needs of their clients, patients and staff. Decisionmaking at the local level ensures organizations take an approach that works for their situation.

More broadly, businesses, organizations and facilities should consider the needs of their organization, clients and staff for this upcoming respiratory virus season.

Additionally, public health encourages all employers to: - support people to stay home when they’re sick; - have hand washing or sanitizing options available; and - provide opportunities for their staff to be vaccinated.

All Manitobans have the tools

they need to help protect themselves, their families and the community during the respiratory virus season including: - choosing to be immunized against COVID-19 and the flu; - staying home when sick until they feel better and no longer have a fever; - washing their hands or using hand sanitizer regularly; - covering coughs and sneezes; - choosing to wear a mask as an extra layer of protection; and - cleaning and disinfecting shared surfaces and objects.

COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccines continue to be distributed across the province. The updated COVID-19 vaccine has been formulated to protect against the XBB.1.5 strain and the seasonal

flu vaccine is updated annually to provide the best protection against the strains expected to be circulating this year.

The online vaccine finder at gov.mb.ca/covid19/vaccine. html#finder is updated with new locations and clinic details as they are submitted to the province.

There are many ways people can access their vaccines. Manitobans can contact many pharmacies and medical clinics directly to book an appointment or walk in.

Vaccine clinics, including those operated by regional health authorities, generally use the online booking tool at patient.petal-health. com/login?groupId=6032 or 1-844MAN-VACC (1-844-626-8222) to book. Walk-ins may also be available at these clinics.

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November 2023

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Southeast Ventures Come Away with Wins at Inaugural Tourism Awards

By Dan Guetre

Pierrette Sherwood was another southeast resident nominated for an award for her multi-year volunteer commitment to bring the historical Dawson Trail region into the limelight. She was a finalist in the Volunteer of the Year category but in the end did not win the category. “Didn’t take home the prize but hopefully the Dawson Trail Arts and Heritage Tour gained some traction for it,” she noted. She was nominated by Conseil de développement économique des municipalités bilingues du Manitoba.

Submitted photo

Even though they are geographically at opposite ends of southeast Manitoba, two businesses now have something in common as they both walked away from the first ever Tourism Awards winning the top awards in their categories.

A Maze in Corn from just outside of St. Adolphe won the Business of the Year moniker and Falcon Trails Resort & Falcon Ridge Ski Slopes won the Business Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award at a mid-October event hosted by both Travel Manitoba and Tourism Winnipeg at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

Nearly 100 nominations poured in to recognize the dedication and excellence of tourism operators, businesses, employees, volunteers and campaigns from 2022 culminating in 18 awards in nine categories.

At one of his first public duties, newly elected Premier Wab Kinew was on hand to recognize the hard work and persever-

ance of tourism industry professionals.

“Manitoba welcomes millions of visitors and their families to our great province each year. The tourism and hospitality sectors have worked tirelessly to show visitors everything Manitoba has to offer.

They have built a strong industry which has created economic benefits for communities across our province. Congratulations to the finalists and winners for your efforts and your continued success,” said Premier Kinew.

“The incredible work of our award finalists and all the hard-earned success they’ve achieved is truly remarkable.

I am so honoured to be a part of such a robust tourism industry and to support the excellent work of the tourism operators and experts that drive the $1.8 billion tourism economy in this province as of 2022, our best year ever,” said Colin Ferguson, President & CEO, Travel Manitoba. “Congratulations to all nominees and winners.”

RM of Ste. Anne Completes Next Phase of Thurston Drive Park After initially installing a basketball court, walking paths and fitness station in a new park in La Coulee, the RM of Ste. Anne turned their attention temporarily to complete the renewal of the Giroux Heritage Park this summer. With the short timeout over the summer, their focus returned to completing the second phase for the

La Coulee site, officially named Thurston Drive Park.

Just recently a new playground structure was added to ensure that the park is activity friendly for all age groups.

The park also is home to a Dawson Trail Historical marker and an exhibit courtesy of the Dawson Trail Arts and Heritage project.

Read the Dispatch Online at www.dawsontrail.ca New playground structures added to Thurston Park in La Coulee.

Submitted photos

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

November 2023

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Taché Recognizes Firefighter’s Commitment to Department

The RM of Taché invited their entire team of fire fighters and their families to an awards ceremony.

By Dan Guetre According to Mayor Armand Poirier, he and his council were honoured to host a long service award ceremony recently for Taché Fire Department.

Firefighter Marc Dornez was recThe awards ceremony also hosted ognized for his 15 years of service a first milestone for the Taché Fire and both Rudy Serceau and Brian Department.

Weselake were recognized for their “Kenny Manaigre was given an 10 years of service. award for 25 years of service,” noted

Rudy Serceau was one of four fire fighters recognized for the years of dedicated service to the Taché Fire Department.

Submitted photos

Poirier. “His wife Danielle proudly presented him with the award… he is the first firefighter in the fire department to receive such an award.”

Council congratulates all the fire

fighters and their families.

“I am immensely proud of our fire department and the great sacrifices and service they provide to our community,” Poirier concluded.

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Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Commerce Group Offers Free Membership to Youth Entrepreneurs

By Dan Guetre With a goal to help young business owners in the region it serves, the Southeast Commerce Group has rolled out free memberships for young business people.

“To support the next generation of business owners in our local communities, we are offering complimentary memberships to young entrepreneurs,” said Marc Palud, Executive Director for the Manitoba Southeast Commerce Group. “This also helps identify individuals in our local communities that are starting out in business and provides the opportunity for mentorship, networking and connections with established business owners.”

With this no cost membership, young entrepreneurs can tap into needed resources.

“Seasoned business owners can help young entrepreneurs develop their go to market strategies, prove out their Product Market Fit propositions and potentially bypass some of the painful lessons that young entrepreneurs may face if they didn’t have access to individuals that could help navigate the business world,” explained Palud.

The Southeast Commerce Group is the chamber of commerce representing the RMs of Ritchot, Taché and Ste. Anne and the Town of Ste. Anne.

“Think of the Manitoba Southeast Commerce Group as a business resource that promotes and protects local area business interests,” said Palud. “From answering basic questions to getting connected to other business owners or other resources that can help you, the Manitoba Southeast Commerce Group is here for you.”

Membership to the group, according to Palud, gives you access to discounts, deals, employee benefits options, shop local online marketplace and contributing to a collective pro-business voice for the region.

The Manitoba Southeast Commerce Group’s mandate is to promote, support and protect businesses in southeast Manitoba, he added.

“Collaborating with local CDC’s, CDI’s, Community Futures, RMs and Towns ensures that any available resources needed by area businesses can be accessed.”

The organization looks forward to hosting additional events.

“Events are chosen, based on the needs of our members,” said Palud. “Our most popular events are ‘Business Growth Meet-Ups’ and information/training seminars.”

Members can also set the agenda for the group with their input.

“Our Board reviews all suggestions from members who want a specific event or activity that aligns with improving the economic health and well being of our local communities that our resources can effectively handle,” he explained.

Palud is eying 2024 as a big year for the Manitoba Southeast Commerce Group.

“New features that are coming in 2024 include the official launch of our ‘Shop Local Online’ Chamber Market where members of our local communities can shop online from our local area businesses,” he noted. “The online marketplace is currently in pre-launch stage, where businesses are invited to set up their Shop Local Online eCommerce web stores. We also have an API connection to Shopify where you can copy over your products from an existing Shopify store.”

Finally, the Manitoba Southeast Commerce Group is hosting their AGM on Thursday, November 9 at the Dawson Trail Motor Inn in LorMarc Palud, Executive Director for ette with a start time of the Manitoba Southeast Commerce 7 pm.

Group.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

South Eastman Rotary to Host Its Annual Fundraising Luncheon Join South Eastman Rotary for their Annual Luncheon to be held on November 7 from 11:30 am to 1 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village.

Your contribution supports educational projects including the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) Program, Rotary Youth Leadership Assembly (RYLA) and the Ripple Effect - building schools in Guatemala.

Emcee Michelle Bezditny will introduce Special Guest Presentations from Hanover School Division students, RCMP Staff Sergeant Guy Landreville, and Rotary District 5550 Governor Sonya Susut.

Stay for this year’s Keynote Speaker Gerry “The Big Bear” Barrett. Barrett is a proud status Ojibwe from the Saugeen First Nation, and will share his experience as a “Sixties Scoop” survivor, adopted into a non Indigenous family.

Barrett overcame bullying and racism throughout his youth, and went on to become a successful entertainer, comedian, Elvis tribute artist and musician. Learning to incorporate humour into every situation led him to a career in stand-up comedy and entertainment.

When he is not performing as “Ojibwe Elvis”, or with his band “Vegas Thunder”, he is writing country songs or offering his inspirational workshop for youth “yes I Can”.

Barrett has performed on the Comedy Network, CBC Television, CBC Radio, the Aboriginal People’s Television Network and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival. In 2013, he performed at

an Inaugural Ball for President Barack Obama. In 2004 he made television history by performing on North America’s first, all Indigenous, stand-up comedy, television special; Welcome to Turtle Island. He also wrote and produced his own television stand-

up special for the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network, titled, The Big Bear Comedy Show.

RSVP or for more information email rotarysoutheast@gmail.com. Sponsorship opportunities are available ranging from $300 to $2,000.

This year’s Keynote Speaker is Gerry “The Big Bear” Barrett.

Submitted photo

Ritchot Rotates Traffic Speed Reader

By Angelique Forrest To help remind drivers traveling through St. Adolphe to follow posted speeds, the RM of Ritchot is relocating its Traffic Speed Reader to a new location with the hope that drivers will take notice.

The Traffic Speed Reader is an important tool to keep the community safe and some of the previous locations include just past the entrance

to Tourond Creek where it drops to 50km/h, then it was moved focusing on the southbound traffic at the start of the school zone.

The recently approved move to a new location will allow it to focus on northbound traffic, again at the beginning of the school zone, according to Ritchot Councillor Jason Bodnarchuk.

“Since the addition of the school zone we have not moved the sign and

since they are mobile it is great to locate and move them to other high traffic areas as well,” noted Bodnarchuk.

The sign will be moved soon and he hopes it will serve as a reminder about speed in the school zone.

“Sometimes people just honestly forgot or have a lapse of memory and seeing the sign could remind them to slow down and drive with care,” added Bodnarchuk.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

November 2023

13

Award-Winning As Friendship Trail Evolves, Advocate Steps Back from So Does Scrutiny Crow Wing Trail Association

By Angelique Forest

The St. Adolphe Friendship Trail has gotten a lot of attention over recent years, especially with the addition of multiple structures to enhance the experience of users. The volunteer maintained 2.7 km trail is located along the banks of the Red River and is considered a great venue for bird watching, snowshoeing, and running.

What once started with a few seniors cleaning up the trail during the Covid-19 pandemic, it has now grown into a community asset. The popularity of the trail has grown but with that also comes scrutiny.

According to Richard Collette, one of the 5 volunteers who maintain the trail, a recent inspection by the Province resulted in various concerns with some of the added features.

In a report, some of the structures, including the teeter totter and the merry-go-round, did not meet government standards for public safety and had to be removed.

“The parents and kids loved them. We had no complaints from them,” said Collette.

But since the trail is on crown land, the municipality would be responsible if anything happened, he admitted.

Collette worked quickly to have the equipment removed and even turned this set back into a positive action.

“So, we sold the equipment to the highest bidder,” he explained.

“We were quite pleased with that.”

After almost 25 years of steering the Crow Wing Trail initiative, Murielle Bugera has announced she is taking a step back, resigning as President Submitted photo and administrator, a position she has held for most of the time since its formation in 1999.

By Dan Guetre and Angelique Forrest After almost 25 years of steering the Crow Wing Trail initiative, Murielle Bugera has announced she is taking a step back, resigning as President and administrator, a position she has held for most of the time since its formation in 1999.

Bugera, who at the time was working as the Economic Development Officer for the RM of De Salaberry and the Village of St-Pierre-Jolys, got involved in the initiative in 1997, two years prior to helping formalize an idea that has turned into a partnership between multiple jurisdictions combining tourism with heritage.

“One of our goals was to connect the communities of St. Malo, St-Pierre-Jolys and Otterburne using trails,” she explained. “I started looking for people who had experience with trails. This led me to Dave Graupner who had recently moved to St. Malo from Ontario, where he had been involved with the Bruce Trail.”

This was the start of a journey that led to the eventual formation of the Crow Wing Trail Association Chemin Saint-Paul Inc. Board.

“We’d go to Manitoba Recreational Trails Association (MRTA) meetings, where we learned about the concept of the Trans Canada Trail (TCT),” she noted. “The MRTA was responsible for developing the 1,200 km trail in this province and encouraging volunteers to help them do that.”

One thing led to another as the concept was developed and others joined in to create a plan.

“It became clear that the TCT would be a great asset for our communities and soon a small economic development project became a vi-

sion to be part of a national infrastructure,” she explained. “That’s when Henri Desharnais of the StPierre-Jolys Museum stepped up to share the vision. He provided all the research the museum had done in regards to the Crow Wing Trail, an important Métis ox-cart trail used in the mid 1800’s. This Red River Trail was key to the development of not only our communities, but of our province, as carts transported goods and services to the Red River Colony (Winnipeg).”

The museum had organized trail rides meeting up with their American counterparts, installed a cairn at the museum entrance and moved the Goulet House onto their property to preserve a Métis cart driver’s home, she added.

According to Bugera, Henri provided her with their prized possession - an 1887 7’ long provincial map that was a plan to build Rd 606 ‘on top of’ the Crow Wing Trail, from Winnipeg to Emerson.

Although this road was never built (being replaced by highway 59), the plan was instrumental for the re-creation of the Crow Wing Trail as part of the Trans Canada Trail.

She explained how the municipalities of Emerson, Franklin, De Salaberry, St-Pierre-Jolys and Ritchot came together to support the idea of the Crow Wing Trail as part of the Trans Canada Trail. Over the years, Roseau River First Nation, the Town of Niverville and the RM of Montcalm have also joined.

The Crow Wing Trail Association Chemin Saint-Paul Inc. Board is now responsible for the improvement, maintenance and promotion of the Crow Wing Trail on behalf of its member municipalities. It does so with the assistance of provincial and

federal grants and especially from Trails Manitoba and Trans Canada Trail. It has strong support from CDEM (Economic Development Council for Bilingual Municipalities) and Eastman Tourism. It also has interesting partnerships with the Canadian Company of Pilgrims and Actif Epica, and more recently with local groups like the St. Adolphe Friendship Trail, the Peace Trail and St. Malo Cross Country Skiing.

“Our rural communities benefit from the Crow Wing Trail in many ways… capital investments and increased tourism, and of course trails add to the quality of life, as a low cost infrastructure that provides a healthy outdoor activity,” she said.

“We feel that we have helped encourage trail development south of Winnipeg!”

Along the journey, Bugera received the Manitoba Premier’s Volunteer Service Award in 2020 and the Honour 150 Award.

Today, Bugera needs to focus on a different part of her life.

“Well, I was preparing to cut back on time given to this great Association, but I am now freeing up my time to help my daughter’s family,” she explained. “She passed away in June and left behind three small children, one of them a baby she was still breastfeeding.”

While Bugera’s priorities may have changed, she is proud of the accomplishments she and others have achieved.

“I enjoy working with other communities and have made long-lasting friendships throughout the years,” she said. “We often don’t know what’s in our own backyard.

We all have our own treasures and we need to highlight them for everyone to enjoy.”

Carbon Monoxide Alarms – Why We Love Them and You Should Too! Carbon monoxide is “the silent killer” – a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas you won’t be able to detect on your own. If you have a carbon monoxide alarm, a beep can mean the difference between life and death.

Who needs a carbon monoxide alarm?

Anyone using any type of combustion heating such as wood stoves, fireplaces of any kind, gas and oil furnaces, and natural gas appliances such as water heaters or stoves.

The incomplete combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, wood, kerosene, propane, and natural gas used to power these items naturally produces carbon monoxide fumes. Chimneys get clogged, appliances malfunction or suffer venting issues, and today’s airtight homes increase the chance of CO accumulation. In short, stuff happens – be prepared!

We love carbon monoxide alarms. Why? - They notice things we don’t. CO gas is colourless and odourless, undetectable by humans. When you breathe in carbon monoxide it gets into your blood stream and prevents your red blood cells from carrying oxygen.

- They keep you informed. Carbon monoxide alarms constantly monitor CO levels, alerting you with an audible alarm when gases reach dangerous levels. Many digital models display both current and peak readings of CO over a period of time, with some digital models even registering levels below the alarm threshold.

- They are reliable. In fact, they are the only safe way to monitor CO levels in your home. Carbon monoxide alarms use a CO gas sensor to identify and measure the concentration of carbon monoxide in your home in parts per million (ppm). When dangerous levels are detected, an electronic pulse is sent to activate the alarm – the higher the levels, the faster the response. Are your carbon monoxide alarms safely installed?

- One alarm: A single alarm should be located near the sleeping area where it can awaken sleeping occupants if deadly gas levels are detected.

- Additional alarms: Locate one alarm on every level of your home, including the basement, and in every bedroom for extra protection.

One alarm near or over an attached garage is also recommended.

- What not to do: Don’t install carbon monoxide alarms directly above or beside combustion appliances, which emit a small amount on startup. Also avoid placing them within 15 feet of heating or cooling appliances, in very humid areas like bathrooms, and in areas where they may be obstructed by furniture or draperies.

Protect the ones you love – install a carbon monoxide alarm today.

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November 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Taché Will Meet with New Government to Fulfill Rec Centre Election Promise

By Dan Guetre

Drawings detailing the amenities included in the proposed Taché Community Centre.

With the NDP now in the decision making seat of power leading the province, the RM of Taché council will need to arrange meetings in order to have Premier Wab Kinew follow through with a campaign promise.

In mid-September, then NDP Leader Wab Kinew, joined community members and RM Taché Mayor Armand Poirier in Lorette, to announce that a Manitoba NDP government will invest in families by providing full funding to build a new Taché community centre.

“Community centres are the heart of small towns across Manitoba.

It’s where our families grow up together - where we take our kids to hockey practice and have coffee with our neighbours in the bleachers,” said Kinew at the time. “With a Manitoba NDP government, more folks will have a community centre nearby. We will build a fully funded Taché community centre.”

During his campaign announcement, Kinew had criticized both Heather Stefanson and Bob Lagassé for their refusal to fund the remaining $5 million dollars to complete the project, leaving the community to foot the $5 million dollar bill themselves.

His assurance was that if the people of Manitoba choose an NDP

government on Election Day, “the Taché Community Centre project will not be compromised and will finally be built.”

RM Taché Mayor Armand Poirier was present for the campaign announcement and welcomed the news that his council could avoid raising taxes to cover the costs of the balance still required to put shovels in the ground for the project.

Poirier is ready to tackle the new community centre and meet with the Premier and his NDP government to solidify the commitment to additional funds to see its completion.

“At this time we have not approached the new government,” said Poirier. “We will be in communication with the new government in the coming months to discuss their election promise.”

Taché Reeve Armand Poirier (left) with, at the time, Premier candidate Wab Kinew (right) with File photo local NDP candidate Chris Wiebe.

Grunthal Drop Zone Hosts Successful “Dream Big” Dessert Fundraiser

By Angelique Forest The Grunthal Drop Zone held its “Dream Big” Dessert Fundraiser in late October is support of a major capital project, programming and operational expenses. Guests were treated to desserts and entertained by local musicians and some comedy.

The Drop Zone has established itself as a gathering place that values every person that walks into the building. Their values include showing respect and affirming everyone’s individuality and unique qualities, looking past where people are at in life, and where their struggles lie.

“Around 150 people came out to the event,” said Steve, a representative of the drop zone.

“The fundraiser was successful bringing in $73,000!”

According to Steve, the funds will be added to their capital projects, a gymnasium as well as building renovations. To date The Drop Zone’s fundraising efforts have them sitting over the halfway mark of the $740,000 goal.

Guests were treated to desserts and entertained by local musicians and some comedy.

Submitted photos

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Adult & Teen Challenge to Host Fall Fundraising Dinner The Adult & Teen Challenge is hosting “Be Part of a Story” 2023 Fall Fundraising Dinner on Tuesday, November 7 starting at 6 pm at the Friedensfeld Community Centre.

This evening is a great opportunity to bring friends and family come together to celebrate the testimonies of freedom, and gain insight into their future vision.

Your presence and support are instrumental in making these programs a reality in the community.

“This evening is a great opportunity to bring friends and family come together to celebrate the testimonies of freedom, and gain insight into the vision we have for the future,” wrote Pastor Daniel Emond in his announcement.

For more information, to reserve seats, or consider sponsoring a table for this event please visit our website teenchallenge.tc or call 204-949-9484 or scan the QR code (on right).

Submitted photo

By Dan Guetre

In many ways, Don’t Fence Me In is a tribute album to the scores of people who have welcomed Redekop into their rural homes during his years travelling the province for the Free Press and again for this book. It’s a heart-felt journey but not as a member of the news media anymore but as a writer, some guy with a notebook, a wayfaring stranger.

Not one rural household refused to open their doors to Redekop.

The stories range from underground natural gas fires burning along Manitoba’s Escarpment, to a community cemetery where volunteers hand-dig graves for family members.

The book includes tales of Jesse James in Manitoba, quicksand in the Carberry desert, Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Catholic Church in Camperville where there was a recent dig for unmarked graves of a former residential school, and Canada’s northernmost drive-in movie theatre in Flin Flon.

The book features some southeast stories that are sure to connect with local residents.

The southeast inclusions are titled Jailhouse Rock – Oakbank, Crazy City Girls – Grunthal, Lake Vita – Vita and Growl – Roseau River.

The new book Don’t Fence Me In: True Stories about Rural Manitoba, by Bill Redekop, 320 pages, at $29.95 can be purchased at Redgrass Books.

The new book “Don’t Fence Me In: True Stories about Rural Manitoba”, by Bill Redekop.

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Whitemouth to Host Holiday Train Again

The CP Holiday Train.

Don’t Fence Me In: True Stories about Rural Manitoba In his sixth book, Don’t Fence Me In: True Stories about Rural Manitoba, Bill Redekop chronicles rural life. Along the way, he argues rural literature is a genre unto itself, not unlike Western or Pastoral genres in books and movies; it only lacks a good defining name. Redekop suggests the genre name should be the Remainers: people who have resisted urban migration. They’ve stayed on the land. They’ve opted for a rural lifestyle.

Then there are those who have moved back to a rural setting, like commuters, organic farmers, etc. They are the Returners, as in returning to the land or their rural roots. This is the post-rural era we live in, Redekop maintains, where these two peoples, the Remainers and the Returners, intersect.

Redekop was the Winnipeg Free Press rural reporter for 14 years.

The book’s format is also unique: non-fiction short stories. Short non-fiction books, where they exist, will typically have a unifying theme, such as rural renewal, or rural architecture, or the future of a rural region.

The short stories in Redekop’s book are linked only by their rural genre, crossing many different themes.

The stories in Don’t Fence Me In are all original and written specifically for this book.

November 2023

Submitted photo

The iconic CP Rail Holiday train will again make its way through Manitoba and is scheduled to be in Whitemouth on December 2. According to the schedule, the rolling festive display should arrive around 6:50 pm and will be viewable on Railway Avenue just across from the Whitemouth Hotel.

The Holiday Train is celebrating its 25th year and supports food banks by raising money, food and awareness for food insecurity issues. The Holiday Train has raised more than $22.5 million and collected 5 million pounds of food over the years.

“The Holiday Train program is close to the hearts of our CP family. Our railroaders take great joy in joining communities across our network as they come together in the giving spirit of the holidays,” said CP President and CEO Keith Creel. “We are proud to support local food banks as we fight food insecurity by collecting food and raising money and awareness. I am grateful to all the railroaders and community members who have supported the Holiday Train over the past quarter century and made it such a success.”

During this leg of its journey, live performances by Canadian musical group “Anyway Gang” will be featured during its stops.

This year’s Holiday Train tour will include 191 live music shows in six provinces and 14 states.

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Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

November 2023

17

Group Successfully Hosts Seniors’ Wellness Expo

La Broquerie Economic Growth Strategy Seeks Community and Business Input

The Seine River Services for Seniors (SRS) has closed the books on their first ever Wellness Expo, an event that offered resources to 55 plus individuals and their families and caregivers.

Submitted photo

By Dan Guetre The Seine River Services for Seniors (SRS) has closed the books on their first ever Wellness Expo, an event that offered resources to 55 plus individuals and their families and caregivers.

The event was held in Ste. Anne

in mid-October and brought together guest speakers and other service groups covering topics aimed to address the issues seniors face when living independently.

“This was an opportunity to give participants the opportunity to learn about services in their area, ask the

professionals about specific services, and to educate themselves on holistic ways of staying at home independently,” explained Melanie Bremaud, Senior Resource Coordinator of SRS and a key organizer of the event.

Continued on page 19...

RM of La Broquerie residents and the business community are being asked to share their ideas about how to boost the economy and enhance quality of life via a community survey.

The municipality is creating an Economic Growth Strategy, focused on job creation, and investment and workforce/resident attraction. The survey is important to understanding of what motivates people to move to La Broquerie, and how to nurture business growth and entrepreneurship.

The Strategy will guide efforts to support and grow existing businesses and attract workforce and investment. The Strategy also aims to connect the dots to a broader community development action plan that enables job creation, including: lifestyle-focused services/amenities, placemaking, housing choice and affordability, and more flexible commercial form and function for today’s entrepreneurs needing more nimble solutions.

The Strategy is scheduled for completion in Spring 2024.

Ongoing work includes a community leader’s workshop, data analysis of competitive economic sectors, and interviews with community and business leaders. From this work, some key themes have emerged and the RM has launched a survey to gather feedback from residents and businesses. The survey includes visioning for the future, and sharing ideas about opportunities.

A survey link will be available on the RM of La Broquerie website at labroquerie.com.

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Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Aethos Taekwondo on Top of the Heap

By Lionel Bernier Once again, Aethos Taekwondo competed in a local Taekwondo tournament, this time the 6th Annual River City Classic Invitational tournament held at the Caisse Community Centre in La Salle on October 21.

Comprised of two branches in Lorette and Ste. Anne, Aethos Taekwondo sees itself at the top of nine other Taekwondo organizations from Winnipeg, Thompson, and other rural areas based on total medals won. The clubs included TRP Academy, Premier Taekwondo, K. Saunders Taekwondo, Lake St. Martin Chang Moo Kwan, Sikad Taekwondo, Tam’s Taekwondo,

Anna Diadiun after taking a kick to the neck in her previous match. Here she is waiting with coach Melody Tardiff to commence the Gold Medal match. Due to the pain, she could not compete at 100%.

The Lorette RCC medal group.

Comprised of two branches in Lorette and Ste. Anne, Aethos Taekwondo sees itself at the top of nine other Taekwondo organizations from Winnipeg, Thompson, and other rural areas based on total medals won.

Focus Taekwondo, Elite Taekwondo, and Robert Lee Martial Arts.

Thirty-seven students from Aethos participated in both pattern and sparring competitions winning thirty-seven medals – 7 Gold, 17 Silver, and 13 Bronze. A total of 127 competitors fought for their medals in the patterns and/or sparring events.

Two young girls from Lorette Branch received unintentional kicks

Photo by Darcell Bohemier

to the neck and jaw areas but both of them displayed their determination and tenacity to not quit amidst the pain and to finish their matches.

Both won the Silver Medal in their respective divisions.

Some students participated in their first ever Taekwondo tournament and were mostly rewarded with a medal win which was a result of their hard work in class.

A junior black belt competed for

the first time in a sparring division with head contact allowed and held his own but was eventually overwhelmed by the more experienced fighter in this two person category.

Often overheard among the competitors was that the sparring competition seemed to be more difficult at this tournament which really can be attributed in large part to the Aaron Bernier (coach) with Jocelyn Kropodra larger divisions - winning a medal after she was floored with a solid kick to her thus becomes more of a challenge. jaw.

Submitted photos Aethos

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

RM of Ste. Anne to Allow Attached and Detached Secondary Suites on Properties with Fewer Restrictions

By Dan Guetre By modernizing their “garden suite” policy, the RM of Ste. Anne is indirectly giving its residents the opportunity to tackle the housing shortage Canada is facing.

“Other jurisdictions across the country have been allowing secondary suites, and collectively, the Municipality felt it was time to revisit and modernize our policies,” said Mike McLennan, CAO RM of Ste. Anne. “Council and Administration are always looking for ways we can eliminate barriers for those in the community, and our current by-laws were restrictive and prevented some from achieving their goals.”

He noted that the Municipality recognized the need for increased flexibility when it came to the Zoning By-law and housing options during the pandemic, when families were gathering to keep each other safe.

“The ability to have loved ones close was important and this allows for some flexibility around such,” he explained.

Even post-pandemic, the municipality recognized other benefits to revisiting the policy.

“Additionally, Secondary Suites will also help members of our community with national or international connections, as it provides a comfortable place for friends and family to stay while visiting, or in some cases, immigrating to Canada and the Ste. Anne area,” he said. “Secondary Suites can also be rented out which will increase housing options throughout the Municipality.”

If the proposed changes are made, the Municipality is expecting to see

results over the next few years.

“We are hoping to increase flexibility for our residents,” said McLennan. “By revamping our current ‘garden suite’ policy and allowing secondary suites, we are breaking down some barriers and hoping to make things better and easier in the Municipality.”

All potential benefits surrounding this change were discussed in council with the administration.

“Not only will this policy make aging in place easier for our senior population, but it all also provides options for older children, extended family or friends who want to live independently but may benefit from supports close by,” he noted. “This also may add a revenue source for anyone who may choose to rent out a secondary suite on their property, all while increasing housing options in the Municipality.”

Secondary Suites will be permitted in a multitude of land zoning categories including agriculture, agriculture limited, general development, rural urban, rural residential and more.

In the zones, any attached secondary suite will be permitted, meaning it would only require a building permit and can be approved by the Municipal Development Officer.

A Detached Secondary suite would require a Conditional Use permit prior to obtaining a building permit.

This process would involve a Public Hearing, with notice sent to all property owners within 100m of the proposal property. Council would review these proposals and has the right to reject, approve, or approve

with conditions (such as a development agreement, or the requirement for fencing etc.).

As Secondary Suites are a Zoning By-law matter, and policies are included in the proposed in Zoning By-law #2023-13 where public input was solicited in both March and September 2023 there is still one step of the process to respect.

“Another public hearing on this by-law is scheduled for November 22 at 7 pm to review changes requested by the province submitted since the September hearing,” said McLennan. “Dependent on the feedback received during this hearing and Council debate, we hope to give 3rd reading once the public hearing has closed, which would allow the Municipality to start to receive applications for following day.”

McLennan is hoping that the positive public feedback received through the process is a good omen to approving the new zoning bylaw, which includes the modernization of the “garden suite” policy.

Since McLennan accepted the position as CAO for the Municipality, he has been an advocate for more transparency with the residents.

“We encourage the community to keep and eye on our social media and Municipal website, where news about by-laws and policies, in addition to public notices and meeting minutes, can be found,” he said.

“We recommend the community familiarize themselves with the Municipal By-laws, and welcome anyone to reach out to the Municipal team with any questions or need for clarity that they may have.”

Start Off 2024 with a Wildlife Haven Calendar

By Dan Guetre Don’t miss out on the opportunity to welcome a piece of Wildlife Haven into your home while helping sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife.

A new 2024 Wildlife Haven Calendar, featuring photographs and heartwarming stories of the animals cared for at the Animal Hospital is now available and it celebrates Manitoba’s amazing animals and their returns to the wild! Each month showcases a different patient that has found refuge at Wildlife Haven, giving you a glimpse into their stories of survival and resilience.

All proceeds of these calendars go to supporting patients just like the ones displayed on the pages, and helps Wildlife Haven’s ongoing efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured and orphaned animals back to the wild.

To pre-order your calendar, please visit their website. wildlifehaven.ca and click on “shop” or contact them at 204-878-3740. Calendars are

Wildlife Haven 2024 calendar.

priced at just $18 each and include free shipping. They make excellent gifts for family and friends who share your passion for wildlife!

November 2023

19

Group Successfully Hosts Seniors’ Wellness Expo Continued from page 17...

“It was also a way to network between organizations and businesses, as we all share the common goal of supporting older adults and their caregivers.”

Bremaud’s goal was to keep the event as interactive as possible with a networking theme tying in diverse lifestyle facets.

“There was a variety of booth presenters where participants could visit, gather information and ask questions,” she noted. “We had over a dozen presenters that included a community nurse, a Thai Massage Therapist, meal options, hearing specialists, medical professionals and more.”

The speakers lined up for the day were just as diverse.

“We had 3 guest speakers that included a death doula, a manager of home care case coordination and a moving professional who all shared their expertise and information to those attending,” she explained.

Even the breaks between sessions included interaction between guests and some invited presenters along with grabbing a bite to eat.

“There were also some laughs and movement with other facilitators during health breaks,” said Bremaud. “And we had some great food, thanks to Club Jovial and their volunteers.”

Heather Dean, Chair of SRS couldn’t be happier with the event Bremaud organized.

“The Seniors Wellness Expo organized by Melanie was fantastic,” she said. “I stayed for the day visiting all of the booths, attending 2 of the 3 workshops and participating enthusiastically in the 2 exercise breaks.”

She was impressed by the variety of presenters Bremaud was able to pull in.

“The booths were a mix of private businesses, non-profit organizations and public services,” Dean explained. “Some of the topics covered by the booths were hearing loss, executor services, dementia, meal delivery, recognizing scams, bilingual services, personal emergency devices, and community health services. The 3 workshops covered the services of a death doula, self-managed home care and moving seniors (aka downsizing).”

Dean, who is known for being in-the-loop when it comes to challenges seniors face, admitted that even she walked away with new knowledge.

“I did not know that there is an excellent service in Winnipeg that will assess old coin and stamp collections! The presenter had a list of resources and ideas to avoid filling the dumpster,” she elaborated.

“My mind was spinning by the end of the day with new knowledge and energy to pursue services that would be relevant to me and my family.”

Considering there was months of organizing and planning involved, Bremaud was pleased with the results of the day.

“We were able to get some feedback forms filled out from participants, and many shared their comments to myself, my assistant Suzanne Brémault and our volunteers, all saying how they learned something new and appreciated the event,” she said. “The presenters and speakers shared lots of enthusiasm as well, saying that they enjoyed the opportunity, meeting new people and being of help where they can.”

For the seniors who came out to the Expo, Bremaud’s goal was reached.

“They learned something new that can enhance their autonomy and feel more empowered,” she explained. “To know that there is a whole community happy to be of assistance to their needs... they made these new connections.”

SRS was able to organize the event thanks to funding provided by the New Horizons for Seniors Program.

Bremaud believes that events like this need to be happening regularly and the funding and human resources required need to be made available.

In her own region, Bremaud already has plans to hold a similar event sometime in March to be hosted in La Broquerie.

As for Dean, she is sold on Bremaud’s vision; so much so, she has a list of topics that are already forming.

“I thought of other topics to suggest to Melanie for the next Seniors Wellness Expo such as driving, computer services, home renovations to increase accessibility, vaccinations, OTC drugs, and rental support programs,” she listed. “I am sure that other seniors in our communities could also make a long list of topics for Melanie to consider.”

Read the Dispatch online at www.dawsonsontrail.ca

20

November 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

November 2023

21

Animal Rescue Group Plans for Building Completion Country Tales:

Makin’ Hay

By Darlene Kuchar

The Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue (SAAR) group, after years of dedicated fundraising, is now seeing a light at the end of the tunnel as they finish up the final details in their new building.

By Dan Guetre The Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue (SAAR) group, after years of dedicated fundraising, is now seeing a light at the end of the tunnel as they finish up the final details in their new building.

“Great strides are being made with the building and we are aiming for a December 2023 opening!” wrote SAAR in their recent email newsletter.

Any new building comes with added requirements, and SAAR is tackling the supplies they are going to need getting it ready to house their fourlegged foster friends. They have set up a unique online shopping “wish list” on Amazon and are inviting people to help “stock the shelves”. Items range from as little as $6 to some feature items as high as $150. They will require multiples of most of the items but that is expected as they are working with an entirely new facility.

You can be part of the dream and doing some online shopping by scanning the QR code or going to https://www.amazon.ca/registries/gl/guestview/14J1ZR4ZLMAZE in your browser.

You can use this QR code to go to the Amazon registry or go to https://www.amazon.ca/registries/gl/guest-view/14J1ZR4ZLMAZE

Pitstop Before the Snow Flies

Canada Geese on the Seine River in Ste Anne relaxing before the long trek south.

Had about 100 acres in my early 20’s, decided to make hay rain or shine. Buying new equipment was out of the question so I headed out to a farm auction 100 km away.

As the auction heated up I started telling stories, talking with my hands is what I do.

“Sold! To #64!!” shouted the auctioneer.

“What did I buy?!” I asked.

“A stooker,” was the response.

“What the heck is a stooker?” I asked.

Old timers shook their heads laughing. One said, “You’ll find out.”

That whole summer I was so fashionable. I wore red plastic ear muffs, oversized clear goggles and fitted leather gloves. Any bit of free time I was planted firmly behind an antique Massey square baler. With the repeating “Pa-Chunk-, pa-Chink, Pa Chunk” sound I made the rounds. I caught bale after bale and planted them neatly onto my new to me stooker, stacking each bale into the perfect triangle.

My beige cross eyed pug dog Shirley would follow us around the field as close as possible behind the stooker. One press of the foot peddle the triangle stack would tip and place itself neatly onto the field. Every time the bales landed the dog stopped behind it confused as to why it wasn’t moving. She was bright alright. Eventually she’d peek around and see us already clipping along and caught up.

After four seasons of this I learnt my lesson, unless you know sign language don’t talk with your hands.

A perfect stook of square bales.

Photo by Ginette Perron

Submitted photo

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November 2023

RM of Piney Solicits Response Through Survey for Climate Action Plan

By Dan Guetre The process of developing an RM of Piney Climate Action Plan is now underway and the municipality is hoping residents will fill in a short survey in order to initial thoughts and ideas on climate change and how it impacts their region.

The goal of the climate action plan is to ensure that the RM of Piney is prepared to adapt to or mitigate climate hazards and risks. The development of this plan relies heavily on public participation and engagement.

The Climate Action Plan Survey is the first public engagement. The survey is available at the RM of Piney municipal office or on-line at surveymonkey.com/r/Pineyclimate (or scan the QR Code).

Everyone who completes the survey will be entered in draw to win one of 5 gift cards.

The RM of Piney is hoping that through a series of community and stakeholder engagement sessions, residents in this region will identify climate risks/hazards most prevalent and identify ways that the RM of Piney can be prepared to mitigate or adapt to the climate hazards.

When all the data is collected the goal is to use climate modelling to show how climate risks and hazards are predicted to change over time and look at the impacts of the hazards/risks to the municipality.

If you would like to get involved in this project, please reach out to Allison Driedger by phone at 204392-3849 or email bluestemdevelopment@gmail.com.

The survey is available at the RM of Piney municipal office or on-line at surveymonkey. com/r/Pineyclimate (or scan the QR Code).

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Landmark’s Shoebox Drive Ready for Another Year Landmark Shoebox Drive is once again collecting “shoeboxes” for under privileged children in countries across the globe. Their journey started about 25 years ago and operates under Operation Christmas Child which is part of Samaritan’s Purse.

Landmark Shoebox Drive is set up in the basement of LCF church at 172 Main Street in Landmark.

When you arrive, you pick up a box, choose whether it will be for a boy or girl and choose the age of the child.

You then fill the box with school supplies, hygiene items, clothing, toys, write a letter and even include a picture if you want. You pay for the contents and then at the end of the campaign they ship the filled shoeboxes to the national distribution centre in Calgary.

The countries that receive the boxes include Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Nicaragua, Philippines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, The Gambia and Ukraine. Churches in the receiving countries distribute the boxes to underprivileged children in their community.

The Landmark Shoebox Store will be open until November 18.

Hours are Tuesdays from 3:30 pm - 8:30 pm and Saturdays from 10:30 am - 2:30 pm. They will also accommodate private bookings of you require a different time, you just need to reach out to them.

You can also offering an option to order a box if you are unable to show up in person.

Contact them by email at landmarkshoeboxdrive@gmail.com or by phone at 204-355-4928/204-355-4272.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

November 2023

23

The Real Measure of Ritchot Senior Services November Events Our Economy - When Cost of Livings Forces Us Into Hardship

Group Events: Indoor Cycle - Mondays November 6, 13 and 27 from 10 – 10:30 am. Using a pedal exerciser (provided) pedal along while enjoying the company of friends. This is not an instructor led class, but I will be there to encourage you along as you get your body moving at your own pace. Please pre register for this activity, drop in available if space allows.

Coffee with Friends – On Thursdays, November 9, 23 and 30 from 10 - 11:30 am. Do you have a cool item or photo that you would like to share? Bring it along with you. Open to everyone. $2 for bottomless coffee and muffin. Ritchot Senior Services, 457 Main Street, St. Adolphe.

Lunch & Learn – Tuesday, November 14 at 10 am, RSS will be welcoming the Alzheimer Society, Understanding Dementia – the presentation will include, the different types of dementia, brain health and risk factors, some tips on interacting with someone who is living with dementia and a little about their programs and services. Lunch will be served after the presentation. There will be no charge to attend. You must pre register for this event.

By Monica Guetre

Economists and governments like to say that the health of an economy is measured on how well our businesses are doing by using the gross domestic product (GDP) or the market value of all goods and services produced in a given year.

I say the real measure of how we are doing is how well the consumer is doing because on this flip side all businesses depend on the consumer. The consumer happens to be individuals along with other businesses.

Without the consumer, businesses disappear.

Without the consumers which also includes other businesses making purchases such as iron ores, fertilizer or seed, raw materials that go into manufacturing, restaurants buying produce, and most importantly, the majority of us who live on limited household budgets, it’s apparent consumption controls how well we are doing economically.

Consumption is 100% dependent on how easily our income flows into our free market and our consumption rises and falls with our cost of living. But our cost of living is affected when prices increase - buying our groceries, a winter jacket for your child, a senior who needs their heart prescription, making that monthly mortgage or rent payment, paying property taxes or paying to keep the lights on and our homes warm this winter and even being able to afford putting gas in the car to get to work or paying for a bus pass.

When the cost of living goes through the roof, the majority of us will pull back from spending to focus our income on buying basic necessities. The problem is the basic necessities of eating and keeping a roof over our heads is becoming, and for many, is unaffordable.

Statistics Canada, in their September report, states that Consumer Price Index fell 0.1% but that follows a 0.4% gain in August and increases for groceries continued “above headline inflation, rising 5.8% year over the year, following a 6.9% increase in August.”

The reality is that to hang onto the basic necessities when coupled with living in rural Manitoba, high heating costs, the price of gas at the pump, insurance and property taxes makes it very difficult for seniors to keep their home and age in place. When they are forced to sell they are faced with finding affordable rental housing after a lifetime of supporting their community and working - is unethical and morally not okay.

Another measure of how great we are doing is the use of food banks. Food Banks Canada reported that so far in 2023, “This

year’s food bank usage represents a 32 per cent increase compared to March 2022, and a 78.5 per cent increase compared to March 2019.”

The Food Bank report highlights the many who are struggling to make ends meet.

“The percentage of Indigenous people accessing a food bank is 12 per cent in 2023— even though they represent only 5 per cent of the general population. With income-based poverty rates nearly double those of the nonIndigenous population, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people experience the compounded effects of low income,” continued the report.

What about that young person just starting out, saddled with student debt, high rent, earning minimum wage or not getting enough fulltime hours? How about a person living with a disability who is faced with higher health care costs and lack of affordable housing?

The Canada Food Bank report also highlights the problem that newcomers to Canada have. The use of food banks significantly, “increased from last year—when they comprised 17.2 per cent of food bank clients - and has more than doubled compared to 2016 - when they comprised 12.5 per cent of clients. Recent newcomers are more likely to be working poor.” They are also more likely to be renters, have unstable jobs, unpredictable work hours, and fewer employer benefits such as drug and dental insurance.

This is all happening every day in every community and should be a Real Measure of how we are doing economically, locally, provincially and as a country.

Just imagine what your neighbour’s daily life’s worries must feel like. Well something’s got to give before fear and hopelessness sets in permanently - this is not sustainable.

Before you start thinking that’s this sounds like “socialism” – no it’s not. This is reality.

Putting our heads in the sand is not a solution to fixing our cost of living or our economy.

The majority of us don’t hear masses of people saying “give it to me free”. What most are calling for – “is the same opportunity that others have even though our income is less.”

Remember, the more available income we have that’s not tied into our basic needs, the more successful we and our business are both locally and provincially.

It was novelist Pearl Buck, a winner of the Pulitzer Prize in 1932 and recipient of the Nobel Prize for literature who wrote: “Our society must make it right and possible for old people not to fear the young or be deserted by them, for the test of a civilization is the way that it cares for its helpless members.”

As we approach the end of the year, I hope that municipal councils, the provincial and federal governments actually look at cost of living measures that reduce and even eliminate at least one of our individual household expenses - think sustainable energy through electricity production or maybe buildings refitted or designed for local food production with business models like a co-op. Governments need to get real with funding rural Manitoba’s municipalities, healthcare and education.

It’s their turn to focus on the basic necessities, just like the rest of us. The ultimate measurement for a successful economy should be based on societal contentment.

Group Outing - Join us Friday, November 24 for a Christmas shopping trip to The St. Vital Mall. The bus will be leaving from Ritchot Senior Services in St. Adolphe at 10 am.

You will have the day to shop and enjoy lunch with friends all at your own pace. The bus will be leaving the St. Vital Mall at 2 pm to bring us back. Cost is $5 and you must pre register with Ritchot Senior Services to attend this activity.

Old Time Dance – Sunday, November 26, 1 – 5 pm at the Pioneer Hall, 345 St. Adolphe Rd. Entertainment provided by Northern Reflections. Door prizes, 50-50 and cash bar. Lunch is provided. Please reserve your ticket in advance by calling Jules 204-883-2440.

Quilting & Knitting – Wednesday November 8 and 22, 9:30 am – 1 pm at the Howden Community Centre, 1078 Red River Dr. This year we will be working on two very important projects. We will continue to create lap quilts for the Alzheimer society. And new this year we will be creating knit lap blankets that will be donated to Palliative Care MB. All supplies will be supplied thanks to generous community donations. Coffee and tea will be available. Bring along your lunch, spend time with community members that have the same passion as yourself and make a difference.

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

Upcoming clinic dates: Ste Agathe – Wednesday, November 8 and Thursday, November 9.

St. Adolphe – Monday, November 13, Tuesday, November 14 and Wednesday, November 15.

Ile des Chenes – Tuesday, December 12 and Wednesday, December 13.

Corny Remple as Elvis Presley & Johnny Cash - in concert Friday, November 3 at the St. Adolphe Pioneer Hall. Dinner 6:30 pm, entertainment 8 pm. Only $40, Silent Auction and 50-50 will also be available Contact for tickets, Debbie 204-883-2489.

Woodturners Association of Manitoba – Every second Thursday, 6:30 pm at the Howden Community Centre, 1078 Red River Dr. until June. Begins with a fundamentals topic followed by meeting at 7 pm and demonstration. A bunch of woodturning enthusiasts who meet to share ideas, challenge each other, swap wood and tools, and generally behave like kids in a candy store. Nothing excites them more than finding a new technique, tool, or chunk of exotic lumber. Contact Gerald wamturn@gmail.com.

Heart to Home Meals -To place your order please call 1-204-816-8659 or 1-888-216-1067.

Call for a menu or pick one up at Ritchot Senior Services. Call or email Ritchot Senior Services after placing your orders to let us know you have placed an order. This will assist us in organizing volunteers for delivery of meals to you. Meals ready for pick up or delivery the following day. This service is available to all areas of the Ritchot Community including St. Adolphe, Ste Agathe, Ile des Chenes, Grande Pointe, Howden and Glenlea. There are no contracts, no minimum orders.

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November 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Experience Farm, Fibre, Food and Friends in Gardenton

By Janet Kroeker I was invited to experience a hands-on afternoon working with wool on the busy farm treasured and stewarded by Leah and Guy Bouchard. After crossing the landmark, century-old timber truss bridge east of Gardenton, I found Green Pastures Farm on the scenic bank of the Roseau River.

This is the first year the Bouchards are inviting people to visit their farm to learn traditional, centuries-old techniques transforming wool into useful items such as a small quilt or felted slippers. We were invited into Leah’s cozy studio and given a basket of wool, raised on their farm. Seated in a small intimate circle Leah showed us how to pick the wool to remove veggie matter and get it ready for some hand carding. We then took a walk to the sheep pasture where we learned about the regenerative management techniques they use on their land, and then met the four woolly stars from their large flock of sheep - Gloria, Lily, Janna and Judith, whose wool is used for fibre projects.

Returning to Leah’s studio, we were guided in making our own small wool quilt, to take home and treasure. Our small group of six was then treated to a tasty farm meal, with ingredients raised right on the farm. The whole Farm, Fibre, Food

(l-r) Sandra Drewniak from Stuartburn, Monique Chenier - Economic Development & Tourism Manager at Sunrise Corner Tourism, Leah Bouchard - Green Pastures owner, Michelle Gawronsky - Stuartburn Reeve and Chris Gareau.

& Friends experience lasted about says there are still a few spaces four-and-a-half hours, from 1:30 to available. Registration is online at 6 pm. There are four Saturday dates farmgreenpastures.com. in November/December, and Leah Several days ago, Travel Manitoba included Green Pastures Farm and their Farm, Fibre, Food and Friends in the top 10 things to do in Manitoba.

In my experience, I highly recommend this event as well. For more information about the experience, check out Green Pastures Farm at farmgreenpastures.com.

Brought to you by the Stuartburn Emerson-Franklin Local Food Initiative. Find them on Facebook.

The four “woolly stars” - Gloria, Lily, Janna and Judith.

The group making the wool duvet - author Janet Kroeker on the far right.

Participants enjoying a tasty farm meal.

Submitted Photos Janet Kroeker

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

November 2023

25

Only the Clouds Above Us

This month, I continue the tale of our Maritime Journey of discovery and adventure.

The day was finally at hand to reach the high point of my entire trip, both figuratively and literally. This was the day that we were going to climb Mount Carleton, the highest point of land in the Maritime Provinces.

My children and I had been looking forward to this particular adventure for quite some time and we were so very excited that it had now arrived.

Visiting the park office and then having driven in to where the trailhead was, we soon found ourselves geared up and ready for the climb.

Turning our backs to our vehicle

and the dusty, gravel road we entered the forest and began to follow the single dirt trail. The dirt trail, while easy to follow, was studded with rocks and roots that could quickly twist an ankle or trip up the unwatchful traveller. Being mindful of that and having a father that reminded them often of it, my children and I walked on without a mishap. The trail, winding through the lovely forest was beautifully sun-dappled in many locations which added to the beauty.

As we followed this trail we came alongside a creek so wonderful that we had to stop and spend some time there just to admire it and enjoy the sound of the water rushing over the rocks and racing away down the slope. Continuing on, we were greeted by the returning sight of the creek as the trail wound back to it and away again.

As the day wore on we continued to gain altitude until we came to an elevation where the dirt trail gave way to a larger rocks that we were now required to slip between, scramble over and detour around. The once dirt trail now became a trail of arrows painted

occasionally on some of the rocks to give you a sense of a direction to follow. Figuring that up was the best way to get to the top we climbed. Joyfully we climbed and, gazing up, we could see the peak not too far above us. Energized, we climbed quicker and soon came to realize that the “peak” we had reached was merely a lower level and that the true peak was not yet in sight.

We climbed on.

Snapping photos and chatting excitedly about this adventure we reached another “peak” which in reality was another level on our way to the top. The cool thing about this peak was that it was the end of a ridge and by following this ridge with our eyes, we could see the true peak in the distance. Spotting the bright colours of a hiker’s backpack at the end of the ridge, we knew that it would take some time to cover that distance. Having a quick snack, we set our eyes to the summit and the fire-spotting hut that braved the elements from a bygone era.

Species at Risk Spotlight:

American Badger

By Norm Gregoire In southeastern Manitoba, we have such a wide variety of wildlife that it would be impossible to see every species in one lifetime. For someone like me who has loved wildlife since childhood, it is a goal to be able to witness as many of the incredible species as possible that we live among. One species that has eluded me so far is the American badger.

As the Community Liaison for Species at Risk, I feel like the wait to see this iconic Prairie species is long overdue!

The Prairie subspecies of American badger is designated as one of Special Concern under the federal Species at Risk Act. It does not mean that the species is disappearing, but recognizes that overall, it that may become threatened or endangered because of a combination of biological characteristics and identified threats. In Ontario and British Columbia, those subspecies are, indeed, endangered because of habitat loss and high mortalities.

The American badger is a mem-

American Badger

ber of the weasel family. Unlike its slim cousin, the ermine, it is short and stocky, weighing four to twelve kilograms, with an overall flat appearance. They are equipped with powerful front legs and claws that may reach four centimetres, making them excellent diggers. Due to their greyish colouring and stripped face, the American badger may be mistaken for a striped skunk or even a common raccoon. A good trick to help distinguish a quick sighting of these three species is where they were seen. If it is in a more urban setting, then chances are it is not an American badger, as they are much more adapted for a rural habitat.

American badgers are generally found in unforested grasslands, shrublands, pastures, and fields, while trying to avoid cultivated land. A key feature of the habitat is loamy soil, which can support their underground den (also called a sett).

Setts can be more than three meters deep and more than ten meters long.

A male American badger may have a home range of over sixty square kilometres.

During this time of year, the American badger will be getting ready for winter. They are a species that undergoes a process called torpor during the coldest months. Topor is not a true hibernation. They are mostly dormant, but their basic

Photo submitted by Norm Gregoire

body functions (heart rate, core body temperatures, etc.) have not dropped as low as a true hibernator. They will occasionally wake, and in the case of female American badgers, take this opportunity to give birth to their young, called kits.

So, it looks like my time to see an American badger this year is slowly running out, but there is always hope for next year. As American badgers enjoy their winter dormancy, we two-legged members of the tall-grass prairie natural area get to enjoy the winter months, and there is a lot to look forward to.

Community Celebration Event!

All are welcome to join the Shared Legacy partnership for an open house at the Weston Family Tallgrass Prairie Interpretive Centre near the town of Stuartburn on Road 32 East.

Doors are open from 6.30 pm until 8 pm. Tour the centre at your own pace and meet members of the Shared Legacy partnership representing the Rural Municipality of Stuartburn, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Sunrise Corner Economic Development, and the Province of Manitoba.

Learn what is being done to raise awareness about the tallgrass prairie and the incredible species that are found throughout.

This event is free of charge, and registration is not needed. For more information, contact info@ sharedlegacymb.ca or check out the Shared Legacy website at sharedlegacymb.ca.

In time, we reached the peak, the true summit of the highest point of land of the Maritime Provinces and we stood together and gazed at the land surrounding us. More than a million trees blanketed the lands around us forming a sea of the most beautiful green I have ever witnessed, the occasion lesser mountain peaks we looked down on from our high perch.

With only the clouds above us, it truly was a sight to behold and one that I will remember forever as it has become a part of me.

As with all great adventures, this one to had to end and we made our way down the backside of the mountain down an easier route and returned in due time to our vehicle at the trailhead. In total, the climb and the return took us about five hours and it was worth every minute of it.

With Prince Edward Island’s highest point being 466 feet and

Nova Scotia’s White Hill reaching up to 1,745 feet, Mount Carleton of New Brunswick easily surpassing them by standing at an impressive 2,680 feet high.

As the children get older and the family welcomes additional members to it, this will be one of those moments that I’ll look back on and be very glad that we did.

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

26

November 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

C ommunity E vents Blumenort Shoebox Packing Store Operation Christmas Child – Until November 12. Monday - Saturday from 1 - 8 pm and Sundays 12 – 4 pm at Blumenort Community Church, 59 Center Ave. No fixed fees - by donation only. We have the items available for you to pack in your box. Come pack a box and bring joy to a child. Contact Debbie de Klein 204-371-4745, dmdeklein@mts.net.

Dominion City Winter Forest Market – Sunday, December 10, 10 am – 2 pm at the Community Hall, 31 McKercher St. Vendors wanted, $30 fee. Contact Gypsiimagik@outlook.com.

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

Contact 204-349-2293.

Friedensfeld Annual Christmas Craft Show – Saturday, November 4, 11 am – 4 pm at the Community Hall. Over 20 crafters and vendors to help everyone get ready for Christmas!

Grunthal Pancake and Ham Breakfast and Cribbage-Crokinole Tournament – Saturday, November 4 starting at 8:30 am at the New Horizon, 109 main St. Cost $5. Cribbage and Crokinole Tournament starts at 10:30 am. Cost $15 per person. Prizes. Top 2 teams advance to finals, winners get $50 per team, losers of the semi-final get $30 per teams, grand prize winners get $70 per team, loser of finals get $40. First 12 teams to sign up are in. Contact Agnes gabartel50@gmail.com.

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

Ile des Chenes Christmas Market – Saturday, November 18, 10 am – 4 pm at the TC Energy Centre. Looking for vendors, cost $30 per table. Email amy@tcenergycentre.com to book a spot.

Yoga - Gentle yet invigorating morning yoga for women and men 55+, and evening yoga for mature teens and adults at the TC Energy Centre. Contact Juliette at yogaforyoumanitoba@outlook.com.

La Broquerie Music and Movement with Paulette – Mondays, November 13, 20, 27 and December 4 at the Centre de l’ Amitie. 4 sessions to share the joy of dance and increase mental health. $10 per session. To register contact Melanie Bremaud 204424-5285, labseiners@gmail.com.

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

Lorette Santa for Seniors gift bag Giveaway - Tache Senior Services is now accepting nominations and donations for their 2nd annual Santa for Seniors gift bag giveaway. Please contact laurie@rmtache.ca for more information.

Music on the Menu - Is back at The Club Bles D’Or. Cindi Cain will be performing her 3rd annual Christmas concert, Tuesday November 21 at 5 pm. Meals cost $10, please call 204-8782682 to reserve your spot.

Burger & Bevy Fundraiser – Tache Community Daycare- Friday, November 24, 6–9 pm at Dawson Trail Motor Inn. Cost $25 dinner. 50/50 draw and silent auction. Tickets available at Tache Community Daycare, 480 Senez Rd. or 204-878-2286.

Christmas Craft Sale – Saturday, November 25, 10 am – 3 pm, at Club Bles D’Or, 1254 Dawson Rd. Join us for crafts and delicious treats.

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

Bibliothèque Taché Library - Story Time & Craft (english) on Saturday, November 4 at 12 pm and Story Time & Craft (french) on Saturday, November 18 at 12 pm. Additionally, come out to Make Doves & Poppies, Tuesday, November 7 from 5 pm - 7:30 pm, LEGO Night, Thursday, November 9 from 5 pm - 7:30 pm, Book Club, Thursday, November 16 from 7 pm - 8:15pm (Reading “The Lost Girls of Paris” by Pam Jenoff), Decorate Your Library Bags! On Tuesday, November 21 from 5 pm - 7:30 pm, Princess Story Time (English), Saturday, November 25 from 11 am – 12 pm.

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

Yoga - Gentle yet invigorating morning yoga for women and men 55+ at the Lorette Community Complex. Contact Juliette at yogaforyoumanitoba@outlook.com.

Southeast Farmer’ Market Christmas Market Day – Saturday, December 9, 10 am–2 pm, indoor Market at Pine Grove Seniors. Variety of vendor tables, lunch available at Canteen.

Fitness Classes for Active Older Adults- Every Tuesday at 10 am, until mid-June at the Les Club Bles D’or. Strengthening using body weight, bands and free weights. Sign up $9 to mid-June or $10 drop-in. Contact Laurie, laurie@rmtache. ca or Tobi Ann 204-801-3133.

Southeast Farmer’s Market Christmas Market Day – Saturday, December 16, 10 am–2 pm, indoor Market at Pine Grove Seniors. Variety of vendor tables, lunch available at Canteen.

Marchand Christmas Craft & Vendor Sale – Saturday, November 25, 10 am to 4 pm at the Community Hall. All profits going to an accessible washroom project at the park. All tin for the bin and donations stay in the community. The Marchand Inn will be making Hampers for local families in need. Cash and new toys greatly appreciated.

Exercise for Fun and Health – Mondays and Thursdays, at 9:30 am the Pine Grove Senior Club. Come join us, we have treadmill, exercise bikes, weights and Just Walk Video. Contact Rachel, resource co-ordinator 204-437-2604.

Meet Your Neighbours Coffee Group- Mondays, at 1 pm, Pine Grove Seniors Club, Highway 12 and Prevost St. and Thursdays at 1 pm at the Evergreens Senior Club at the Hall by railroad tracks.

Community Potluck and Santa Visit – Sunday, November 26, Santa at 5 pm, supper at 6 pm. Come join us for a great meal. Please sign up at the store or bar to bring a side or desert. Please bring a tin for the bin. All proceeds stay in the community. Cash and new toys greatly appreciated.

Sprague Community Bingo – Wednesday, November 1, Sunday, November 5, Wednesday, November 15 and Wednesday, November 29 at the Community Hall. Doors open at 6pm Bingo starts at 7pm.

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

Free Parent Drop-in – 3 sessions on Mondays, November 13, 27 and December 11 from 10 – 11:30 am. Meet and connect with other parents, crafts and activities, join group discussions. Snacks provided. Contact Holly larsonh@blsd. ca or 204-324-6491.

Piney Community Centre Bingo – Friday, November 10 and Friday, November 24 at the Community Hall. Doors open 6 pm Bingo 7 pm.

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

Christmas Bazaar - Saturday, November 18, 10 am – 3 pm in the Community Centre. Canteen available. Table rental, crafts, business cost $15 each. Contact Jen 204-423-2223 or Bev 204-423-2211.

Floor Curling - Every Tuesday at 7 pm, Community Hall.

Pickleball - Every Wednesday at 7 pm, Community Hall.

Archery - Every Thursday at 7 pm in the Community Hall.

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

Richer Holiday Yard Decorating Contest - All homes in the LUD of Richer are invited to enter. Decorate your house and yard and light it up. Judging will take place between December 19 and 30 from 5 to 9 pm – So make sure you have your lights on! Multiple winners will be announced in January 2024 and invited to collect their prizes during the February 2024 LUD of Richer Committee Meeting.

Certified Red Cross Babysitter Course - Saturday, December 2, 9 am to 4:30 pm at the Young at Hearts Club. Includes workbook and certificate. Please bring snack, lunch and water bottle. Cost $25 for Richer and Ste. Anne residents, non RM of Ste. Anne residents $50. Must be age 11 or older. Limited seating. Pre-register by texting instructor Murielle Collette 204-972-0469 or muriellecollette@hotmail.com.

Richer Young At Heart Dance – Saturday, November 18.

Dinner is at 6 pm and dancing until 11 pm. with music by Mosaics. Tickets are $25 per person, and can be reserved by calling Ron at 431-275-0874.

Richer Community Club Chase the Ace held at the Richer Inn on Saturdays from 5 pm to 7:45 pm. Tickets only $1 each.

Jackpot currently over $15,000!

AGM Young At Heart Club – Friday, November 24. Please call Ron at 431-275-0874 for details if you wish to attend.

Richer Recovery AA Group - Meets every Monday from 7:30 8:30 pm at LUD Hall. If you would like more information, call Jeff at 204-371-5518 or Albert at 204-380-3058.

RM of Stuartburn Services to Seniors - Free Shuttle for residents of the RM the first Friday of each month. Call to book a ride and do your banking and shopping locally or book your doctor’s appointment and we will get you to your appointment. Call 204425-3701.

Services to Seniors Steinbach Shuttle - Subsidized cost $15/ person. Minimum of 8 participants required for the trip to take place. Departure from Shady Oaks at 9:30 am. Call 204-4253701 to book a seat.

South Junction Southeast Farmers’ Market – Saturday, November 25, 10 am – 2 pm at the Pine Grove Senior Club. Indoor market, canteen and 50/50 draw. Contact Jen 204-423-2223 or Shawny 204-437-2600.

Come and Visit Stay & Play - Free Drop in Program – Every Tuesday until December 12, from 9:30 – 11:30 am at the Ross L Gray School, 21 Canham St. Hosted by RLG, BLSD and Southern Health for parents, caregivers and children 5 and under. Contact 204-437-2175, chubatyc@blsd.ca, culletona@blsd.ca or ambri@hotmail.com.

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

St. Adolphe Christmas Market - Saturday, December 2 and Sunday, December 3 from 10 - 3pm at St Adolphe School. Monetary Donation to the School.

St. Malo Christmas Noel Pain Night – Tuesday, November 21, 6 – 8 pm at Epic Smile. Cost $40 per person. Join Arlene for festive fun. Registration required at ratriverrecreation.com Little Métis Sing with Me – For parents/grandparents of children 5 and under. Until Wednesday, December 13, 10 am to noon at the St. Malo Church Hall on St. Malo St. Free. Crafts, free play, music, books, snacks. Contact Tiffany 204-3715172 or Aline 204-712-0321.

St. Pierre-Jolys Remembrance Day Ceremony - Saturday, November 11 at 11 am, at 545 Hebert Avenue.

3234 Manitoba Horse Cadets – Join us for fun and adventure every Thursday until June, 6:30 – 9 pm at the Community Hall. For ages 12–18. Free. Meet new friends, fun, adventures, leadership, citizenship, community service, drill band, orienteering, and more. Contact Captain Phil Atkinson, phillip. atkinson@cadets.gc.ca. Website 3234manitobahorse.ca.

Ste. Anne Christmas Market - Saturday, November 25, 10 am – 4 pm at Ecole Pointe des Chenes. There will be over 40 vendors for all your Christmas Shopping needs! Perk Coffee will be there, a Lions Club canteen, amazing door prizes and a 50/50 draw. Proceeds go directly back to the community. Come out and shop till you drop! And support your local makers and bakers. There is a $2 entry which gets you 1 door prize ticket.

Kids Free.

Ste Genevieve Library Night – Every Wednesday in November from 6 – 7: 30 pm. A mini-library at the Community Centre. Come check out some books, exchange and request items from the library.

Steinbach Communicating & Coping with Your Adolescent- Wednesday, November 8, at 6:30 pm, Clearspring Middle School, 1 Brighton Lane. No Cost. Contact Heidi Harder Falk 204-905-3685 or heidi.falk@rcmp-grc.gc.ca Remembrance Day Ceremony – Saturday, November 11 at 11 am at the Pat Porter Center, 10 Chrysler Gate hosted by the Steinbach Legion.

Chase the Ace Fundraiser - Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue – On Mondays at Smitty’s Restaurant. Tickets on sale 6:30 – 8:30 pm, draw at 8:45 pm. 2 tickets for $5. The progressive jack-pot is at $2,054. Winning ticket receives 10% of nightly ticket sales or 50% if the Ace is drawn. Have fun while supporting animals and maybe walk away with some cash!

MHV Christmas Market – Saturday, November 11 from 1 – 6 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village. Many vendors, children’s crafts and a hot lunch.

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

Steinbach & Area Lions Club - Meets second and fourth Tuesday of the month, 6:30 pm, South East Helping Hands.

Contact 204-326-2313.

Winter Clothing & Toiletries Drive – Until November 15, for the homeless and those in need, hosted by the Union Gospel Mission. Drop off at 261 Carson Park Dr or contact Nettie Lambert for pick up. What we need jackets adult and children, toques, mittens, gloves, boots all sizes, warm socks, long johns, blankets and sleeping bags, tooth brushes and toothpaste, shampoos, soap, deodorant.

Stuartburn Open House Community Celebration – Thursday, November 16, 6:30 – 8 pm at the Weston Tallgrass Prairie Interpretive Centre. All are welcome to an open house, tour and Q &A with legacy partners and connect with others who have a passion for the Tall-grass Prairie. Contact Norm Gregoire info@ sharedlegacymb.ca or 204-408-6166. From Vita travel west 13 km on Hwy 201, turn north on road 32 east and follow the signs t the centre.

Clearspring Centre - Christmas Craft Show - Friday, November 17 to Sunday, November 19. Friday 10 am – 8 pm, Saturday 10 am – 6 pm and Sunday 12 – 5 pm. Sunday is a bonus extra day. Contact Gerald Jeske 204-326-1633 or manager@ clearspringcentre.com.

Tolstoi Breakfast Buffet- Saturday, November 4, 8:30 to 11:00 am at the Community Centre. Everyone welcome. Breakfast $12.50, 12 and under $5 and 5 and under free.

Pet Adoption Event - Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue – Saturday, November 18 at Pet Value.

Santa is Back – Starting Saturday, November 25 see Santa and take photos at Clearspring Centre.

Christmas Market Heritage Centre – Saturday, November 18, 9 am – 3 pm at the Seniors Centre. Celebrate the 10th Annual market with a visit from Santa, baking, crafts and vendors.

Hot lunch available. Tables for rent $20.Contact Sandra 204425-3556.

Pet Christmas Photo Event - Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue – Saturday, November 25 (with Santa) and Sunday, November 26 (without Santa) at Clearspring Centre Mall.

Vassar Piney Regional Chamber of Commerce – Thursday, November 9 at 7 pm in council chambers or attend via Zoom. Contact info@pineyregionalchamber.ca.

Steinbach Chamber Lunch & Learn – Digital Solutions for an Increasingly Digital World - Tuesday, November 28, 5 -7 pm at Smitty’s Banquet Room, 145 Park Road West. Join us and MNP to gain valuable insight into how small and medium businesses are utilizing digital solutions to address common issues.

Fall Brunch – Sunday, November 12, 10 am – 1 pm. At the Community Centre. Waffles, French toast, hash browns, egg, ham, sausage and more. Cost $18, ages 6 – 12, $10 and age 5 and under free. Bingo to follow 1 – 3 pm.

SAC Earth and Sky Exhibit – Until Friday, December 8, featuring new work by Pierrette Sherwood at the Hall Gallery Steinbach Arts Centre.

Show and Sale - Saturday, December 9 at Clearspring Mall, 10 am - 4 pm. South East Artists are painting and you will have an opportunity to buy local art.

Vita Grad Bingo Fundraiser – Friday, November 17, doors open at 5 pm at the Community Hall with a Perogy supper $10, silent auction, 50/50 draw. Bingo at 6:30 pm. Bring your bingo dabbers and support our grads.

Pancake Breakfast – Sunday, November 26, 10 am – 2 pm at the Friendship Centre. Cost Adults $7, ages 6 - 10 years $4 and 5 and under free. Everyone welcome.

South East Artists - For all visual artists we meet once a week until May 2024 on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 am at Steinbach Arts Council to paint in any medium you want.

For more information contact Ginette at gperroncreations@ gmail.com.

Christmas Market – Saturday, December 2, 10 am – 3 pm at the Community hall. Baked goods, holiday treats, gift ideas for the whole family. Hot lunch available, canteen, silent Auction. For a table contact Crystal 204-392-9801.

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

Whiteshell Christmas Market – Saturday, November 25, 10 am – 3 pm at the Community Club. Come join us. Vendors please contact leslieannblaney@gmail.com.

Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Group - Thursdays, at 1 pm.

Registration required. Contact Maggie@steinbachfrc.ca, 204-346-0413.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Woodridge 55+ Seniors’ Conference – Tuesday, November 7, at 9:15 am – 2:30 pm at the Community Hall. Speakers Linda Brown “Active Aging – Healthy Brain”; Tina Plett with Victoria Lifeline; Alexandra Martens Dietician Southern Health, Canada Revenue Agency, Gordon Katelnikoff Lawyer on Wills/POAs and Carrie Bilawchuk with drumming exercise. Also Reliable Mobility, E.R.I.K. kits available, Tai massages from 12:30 – 2:30 pm and door prizes. Contact Rachel Lachnit 204437-2604.

Fire Hall Anniversary Celebration – Saturday, November 18, 8 pm at the Community Centre. Come celebrate our 10th Anniversary with firefighter games, DJ and dance, cash bar, late lunch, 50/50 draw. Cost $15 per person. Purchase tickets at Woodridge Vintage Store or call Joel 204-392-5679.

Christmas & Craft Bake Sale – Saturday, December 2, 11 am – 3 pm at Community Centre. Please bring a tin for the bin as a foodbank donation. Canteen, silent auction, 50/50 draw.

Annual Christmas Parade- Saturday December 2, at 3:30 pm from the Fire Hal followed by hot dogs, bonfire and carolling.

Zhoda Open Season Dance – Saturday, November 11, 8 pm – 1 am at the Community Hall. Come kick off hunting season. Night lunch served, gun raffle, 50/50 draw. Tickets available at Sumething Special or at the door. Contact 204-712-6446.

Please email events to editor@dawsontrail.ca for inclusion each month

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

November 2023

Dental Benefit and Hearing Aid Grant A reminder to those who qualify that we are in Period 2 of the Canada Dental Benefit and the Province of Manitoba is still accepting applications for the Hearing Aid Grant.

Canada Dental Benefit Period 2 Applications for period 2 of the Canada Dental Benefit are as of July 1 2023.

During the first benefit period, the Canada Dental Benefit helped more than 315,000 children. Seeing a dental professional is important not only for oral health, but for overall health and wellbeing too. In Canada, a third of people do not have dental insurance, and many are unable to afford a visit to a dental health professional to get oral health services.

For the details, search Canada Dental Benefit. The Benefit is administered by Canada Revenue Agency, CRA. Here is information on who is eligible, how to apply, and how applicants can get ready so that you can get their payments quickly once you apply.

Who is eligible and how much money can you receive?

To access the second benefit period, you must meet all the following criteria: - You have a child or children under 12 as of July 1, 2023, and are currently receiving the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) for that child; - You have a family net income of less than $90,000; - Your child does not have access to private dental care coverage; - You have filed your 2022 tax return; and - You have or will have out of pocket expenses for your child’s dental care services between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024, for which the costs have not been fully covered under another dental program provided by any level of government.

The Canada Dental Benefit provides families with a maximum of two payments per child and a maximum of $1,300 over the two periods.

In the second benefit period, applicants can apply for one or two payments for each eligible child depending on their situation.

If you received a payment for a child in the first benefit period (October 1 2022 to June 30 2023): that child will only be eligible for one more payment.

If you did not receive a payment during the first benefit period: you could get up to two payments in the second period. If eligible, you could apply for both: A basic payment for their child’s dental care between July 1, 2023

and June 30, 2024.

The additional payment for the second period if their child’s dental costs were, or will be, over $650 and you meet the criteria.

How to make the application process faster and easier: CRA My Account is the quickest, easiest, and most secure way to apply for the Canada Dental Benefit.

If you are unable to apply for this new benefit online, you can call CRA at 1-800-715-8836 to complete your application with an agent. Before calling, make sure you have your SIN, address, date of birth, and a copy of your most recently assessed tax return.

Manitoba Seniors Hearing Aid Program The program opened to applications in June. Are you eligible? You need to be: - Resident of Manitoba - Be age 65 or over - Have a household net income below $80,000 in 2022 - Require hearing aids as prescribed by a certified hearing aid dealer licensed in Manitoba You must apply for the grant BEFORE you purchase the hearing aid(s).

Step 1: get a hearing assessment!

You need to have a hearing assessment before you can apply for the grant. You will need a recent audiogram or prescription of your hearing test from your hearing aid dealer.

The hearing test must be dated within the last six months.

Step 2: get the Proof of Income Statement from CRA You will also need a “Proof of Income” Statement from Canada Revenue Agency for 2022. The regular Notice of Assessment is not sufficient. The NOA does not contain your birth date or marital status or your spouse’s net income.

To get your Proof of Income statement from CRA: Call CRA, 1.800.959.8281; when you call, make sure you have your 2021 or 2022 Notice of Assessment or Tax Summary handy as they will ask some questions about it in order to identify you; - Access your CRA My Account and you can get a copy to print; - Ask your tax professional; they should be able to get the Proof of Income Statement for you if they have access to your CRA account.

- Call the CRA automated line: 1.800.267.6999; you will need your SIN, date of birth, postal code, and line 15000 from your most recent notice of assessment; (since June, CRA has NOT been sending out the correct Proof of Income Statement

and we have complained to CRA several times and have escalated to the CRA ombudsmen; we recommend the other options).

For almost all our clients, we have CRA authorization to access our clients’ CRA account and can get the Proof of Income Statement and print it off for you or send it to you as a PDF. There is a $25 fee for this additional service.

Step 3: apply for the grant.

Search “Manitoba Seniors Hearing Aid Program” to get the application form. The hearing aid offices also have the forms. The application must include the Proof of Income statement and the hearing test. The applications can be mailed or faxed to the Department of Seniors. The hearing aid offices can also fax for you.

Step 4: receive approval.

Once your application is approved, you will be sent the approval letter with the unique application number.

Step 5: purchase the hearing aid(s).

The $2,000 is not paid directly to you; it will be paid to the participating hearing aid dealer as a reduction to your purchase. The hearing aid dealer will need your approval letter with the unique application number.

If you only need one hearing aid at this time and the cost is under $2,000, the remaining unpaid grant may be used for the other ear if needed within the 5-year period. If you have some coverage through your private health plan, this program may pay the difference if your coverage is less than $2,000.

Paper Notice of Assessments CRA has been warning for a couple of years that they plan to stop sending out paper Notice of Assessments. This month CRA announced that they have backed off from their intention. Taxpayers will continue to receive paper Notice of Assessments if that is their preferred method to receive them.

Good news for all of us!

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

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

Did you Know??... you can list YOUR business card in the Dawson Trail Dispatch Business Directory for as little as $49 a month!!

We design your ad for you, no extra charge. Just choose the number of months you want your business card ad to run, no further input required! Call us today to book your ad at 204-422-8548 or email sales@dawsontrail.ca

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November 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

The Signals That Guide Our Path Have you ever felt uneasy on the road of life, fearing you might make a wrong decision and have an accident that affects you and many others around you? There are often certain issues of life that seem to cause us more grief and heartache than others. Don’t you wish there was someone or something around at those critical times to instruct you, lead and guide you to prevent wrong decisions?

If you consider road traffic, they seem to have come up with a solution when perpetual problems arise in a specific area. They put up traffic signals at those difficult intersections. These lights now make a potentially dangerous situation safe and orderly. In our busy rat-race of life on the road, they not only provide direction, but also a sense of security for the traveller.

Now all the drivers know when to stop, go or proceed with caution.

In a similar way, God has provided signal lights for every area of our lives. These lights are called the Bible. Psalm 119:105 even says, “Thy (God’s) word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” II Timothy 3:16 says, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine (teaching), for reproof (shows us when we go wrong), for correction (helps us get on the right path again), for instruction in righteousness (shows us how to stay on the right path).”

There are “signals” in the Bible that should control our lives. They show a “stop” sign for pride, envy, hatred, and lust. When the Bible shows a red light, we should hit the brakes and not proceed till all danger is past and the Bible gives us the green light. We can move on in life when pride changes to humility, envy to charity, hatred to love and lust to purity. God’s stops and starts are designed to help us.

Romans 8:28 says, “All things work together for (our) good.”

Thoughtful people will follow the Bibles “signals” just the same as they would obey traffic lights at an intersection. If you are looking for some help on the road of life, why not turn to the Bible’s “traffic lights” to give direction and assurance?

Christmas Hamper Program Underway in RM and Town of Ste. Anne Accueil Kateri Centre, the Ste-Anne food bank, is getting ready to offer Christmas hampers again this year. If you are amongst the fortunate ones, donations towards these hampers are gratefully accepted, be they monetary or food donations. Please note that the food bank has better purchasing power than most individuals. See the website for information on donating : www.accueilkatericentre.ca.

If you are in need of assistance this year and are a resident of the Town or the RM of Ste-Anne, you are invited to apply for a hamper.

Applications must be submitted in writing and the registration form can be found on the food bank’s website indicated above, or at Burnell’s Food Plus in Richer. Please deposit your completed forms in the dropbox at the front of the food bank at 132 Centrale in Ste-Anne or bring them to Burnell’s.

Deadline for applying is November 30th.

Recipients will be asked to pick up their Christmas hampers at the food bank on Saturday December 16 between 10 am and noon.

SAC Opens Exhibit of “Earth and Sky” The Steinbach Arts Council is proudly presenting the second visual arts exhibit of the season.

This exhibit features artwork from talented artist Pierrette Sherwood at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre. The Exhibit opens to the public for viewing until Friday, December 8.

The Artist and the Artwork The work of local French-Canadian Métis artist Pierrette Sherwood is unlike any other. Pierrette is a visionary who creates art from reclaimed materials, found objects and metals. It was her interest in these media that inspired her education in welding courses at Red River College, followed by a metal-smithing course at the Metchosin International School of the Arts. Today, Pierrette turns these rustic objects into sculptures, mosaics and assemblage pieces that are inspired by

nature’s cycles and endless renewal.

To Pierrette, her reclaimed metal art “evokes nostalgia and a reflection of one’s own relationship with the earth”. She is a truly talented artist, as her work has in the past received local and national media attention.

Pierrette’s accomplishments do not solely lie in her art, she is the proud founder of Dawson Trail Arts and Heritage Tour; a grassroots initiative that seeks to uncover and revive the rich history of the Dawson Trail in Manitoba. Furthermore, in 2023 Pierrette was a recipient of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.

Camila Funes-Giesbrecht, Community Programs Coordinator Assistant is honored to host Pierrette Sherwood at the SAC Hall Gallery for the first time.

“Pierrette’s work is unlike any other I’ve seen exhibited at the Steinbach Arts Council, these are pieces that stand on their own merit and show us

that beautiful art can be created from anything. We are honored to be able to exhibit Pierrette’s work in our gallery!” added Funes-Giesbrecht.

New work by Pierrette Sherwood will be featured in the “Earth and Sky” exhibit.

Photo Facebook / Papillon Creations

Massive Book Fair Fundraiser Planned for November Recreational Opportunities for Children (ROC) Eastman will again to open its doors to book enthusiasts as it prepares for its in-person winter book fair fundraiser.

The book fair will start on Friday, November 24, from 4 pm to 8 pm and continue throughout the weekend, Saturday, November 25 from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday,

November 26 from 1 pm to 5 pm.

The massive used book fair sale will be hosted at Unit 9 – 110 Industrial Road in Steinbach.

Books will be priced from $1-3 each. In addition to books, there will be an assortment of puzzles and games available with prices ranging from $1-5.

This is a fundraising event for their charity, ROC Eastman. 100% of the

proceeds go to ROC, to help them reduce barriers to recreation opportunities for children in the Eastman Region of Manitoba.

If you have gently used books you would like to donate to contribute to this fundraiser, books can be dropped of in their donation bin at Clearspring Centre Mall in Steinbach 7 days a week. Their bin is located near the rear/Winners entrance.

Ste. Anne PD Searching for Auxiliary Police Officers The Town of Ste. Anne Police Department is seeking for some “highly motivated individuals” who have an interest in law enforcement for their volunteer Auxiliary Constable Program.

If you quality as an Auxiliary Constable, you will learn police procedures and assist their officers with patrols, calls for service, community events and more.

Not only is the program known

to serve as a foot in the door for their own Community Safety Officers and Police Constable roles but offers invaluable experience to anyone interested in pursuing law enforcement and policing career across Canada.

There are some minimum qualifications required. Applicants must be a Canadian citizen, be at least 18 years old, completed high school and hold a valid Class 5 license with no lower than a negative 4 on the

Driver Safety Rating and eligible to obtain a Class 4. Additionally, candidates must have no criminal record and hold a certificate in Basic First Aid/AED/CPR training.

Auxiliary Constables must have a “good moral character” and be mentally and physically able to perform the duties.

If you are interested, you can apply at steannepolice.ca/auxiliaryprogram or email questions to auxiliary.program@steannepolice.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

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Two Diverse Ways of Living About Us: Pat Porter Active Living Centre (Serving Seniors Inc.) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing the community with various activities that promote good mental health and an overall healthy lifestyle. This incorporates anything from events to dances, Pickleball, and coffee, and everything in-between. We strive to offer programs and events that address your physical, social, cultural, intellectual, and emotional well-being. Everyone will find something they enjoy. Visit patporteralc.com.

Current Programs: Cost is $2 for members and $4 for non-members. Programs are subject to change. Please check daily.

Sign-up for updated hours.

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

Cards - Monday to Friday 1–4 pm.

Fun Bingo – Free. Wednesdays.

November 8 and 22, 6 -8 pm.

Old Time Country Jam – Wednesdays, 7 – 9 pm.

Quilting – Thursdays, November 9 and 30, 10 am - 3 pm.

Fitness Classes: Laughter Yoga – Monday, 1–2 pm.

Zumba – New $3 for members and $5 for non-members.

Friday, November 3, 6 – 7 pm.

Monday, November 6, 1 – 2 pm.

Friday, November 10, 6 – 7 pm.

Monday, November 13, 1 – 2 pm.

Friday, November 17, 6 – 7 pm.

Monday, November 20, 1 – 2 pm.

Monday, November 27, 1 – 2 pm.

Tai Chi – Thursdays, 1 -2 pm.

Fitness Drumming – Tuesdays, 1–2 pm.

Circuit Training – Mondays, 10 -11 am.

PACE – Wednesdays, 1 - 1:45 pm.

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

Yoga with Carrie – Fridays, 9–10am.

Square Dancing - $5 – Tuesdays, except November 14, 7 – 9 pm.

Kids Pickleball –$1 – Mondays, November13 and 20, 4 – 6 pm.

Pickleball - Monday to Thursday and Fridays, 9 am – 12 pm, No-

vember 9, 9 - 10:30 am, Wednesdays and Fridays, 4 – 6 pm.

Evening Pickleball - Mondays 7:30 – 9 pm.

Beginner Pickleball - November 13, 2 – 4 pm, Tuesdays except November 7, 2 – 4 pm, Wednesdays, 1 – 3:30 pm (1 court), Thursdays, 1- 3:30 pm on November 9, 10:30 am – 12 pm.

Badminton – Mondays, November13 and 27, Wednesdays and Fridays, 12 – 1 pm, Wednesdays and Fridays, 4 – 6 pm. Registration required at patporteralc.com.

Special Events: 2024 Memberships. Take advantage of our Early Bird membership pricing of $25!

Doug’s Painting Class - Tuesday, November 21, $20 for members - $30 for non-members. Starts at 1pm. Join with us where our favourite painting teacher Doug teaches us how to paint our own Charley Brown Christmas Tree!

Learn new skills, enjoy a laugh or two and bring your friends!

Decorating Day - Monday, November 20, 9 am – 12 pm. It’s beginning to look like Christmas, or so we hope! Join us to help us jingle down the hallways as we decorate our building for the holidays. Volunteers who want to participate will also enjoy a delicious lunch of soup and a bun after a morning of decorating. Call 204-320-4600 to register.

Cooking Demo - Thursday, November 9, 2 – 4 pm. Join us making desserts that focus on diabetic health. Learn new tricks, secrets of the kitchen and no longer worry about having something sweet once in a while.

Perogy Bee - Monday, November 13, 1 – 3:30 pm. We are getting together to make cottage cheese perogies. We need volunteers to join us and help with rolling, pinching, scooping, and boiling. Call us to sign up to be a volunteer or to order ahead!

Pancake Breakfast - Thursday, November 26, 9:30 – 11 am. Cost $8. Join us for a delicious break-

fast of homemade pancakes and sausage.

Christmas Card Making - Monday, November 27 at 6 pm. Cost $5 per person. Price includes all of the supplies for 3 cards. Please reserve your spot as there are a limited number of spots.

Christmas Market - Friday, November 24, 5 – 9 pm and Saturday, November 25, 10 am – 5 pm with local artisans from all over Manitoba. Find a gift for you or a loved one, support a friend or just come and say hi. Enjoy Perk’s Coffee and delicious mini donuts while you shop.

Rentals: We have rooms of a variety of sizes and prices. For availability visit our website patporteralc.com, email rentals@patporteralc.com or call 204-320-4600.

Meals Program: A healthy, warm and delicious meal cooked fresh daily and delivered to your door. We have two Meals on Wheels programs running out of Steinbach and Grunthal. Meals may be purchased for $8 for delivery (residents of Steinbach & Grunthal) or pickup.

A meal includes soup, a main dish, sides and dessert. Please call 204320-4600 with any questions or to order a meal. To receive or cancel a same day meal, you must call before 9 am.

Steinbach Accessible Transit: Need a ride to an appointment or other errand? This service is available to residents of Steinbach.

Please visit our website patporteralc.com for a full price list. Services are available Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm and weekends.

To book a ride, call 204-326-4055.

If your call is not answered, leave a message with the answering service. Appointments must be booked in advance to ensure availability.

Movie Matinee: Tuesday, December 5, 1 pm at the Keystone Cinema. Cost $12 which includes small popcorn and a drink.

Generators – A Life Saver or a Real Killer?

A generator has the potential to kill, but many people turn to a portable generator as a temporary solution without knowing the risks.

When a power failure occurs, due to a storm, equipment failure or accident, a properly-sized and wellmaintained standby generator can be a life saver when used properly.

Know how to use a generator safely: - Only operate a generator outside as they can create dangerous levels of toxic carbon mon-

oxide very quickly.

- Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door wide open.

- Place generators so that exhaust fumes can’t enter the home through windows, doors, vents or other openings in the building.

- Use a licensed electrician for the electrical work that connects your transfer switch to the electrical system. Make sure all codes are met and necessary inspections are completed.

- Use only approved electrical equipment.

- The transfer switch sits between your essential loads panel and your main service panel. It’s mandatory under the Canadian Electrical Code.

The transfer switch ensures that the generator cannot feed power back into the hydro lines. If that happened, power from the generator could put Hydro crews working on the lines at risk of injury or death.

For more information go to hydro. mb.ca.

Psalm 1: 1) Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2) but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. 3) That person is like tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither - whatever they do prospers. 4) Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. 5) Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. 6) For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction. (NIV) Remembering a story about a friend who went to visit a shut-in.

This shut-in, an elderly gentleman was in his last chapter of life, but he really enjoyed company. His visitor friend thought it was necessary for him to ask a question regarding the here and after. So, he asked his elderly friend if he every thought about or spent time thinking about the here and after?

“Oooh yes, oh yes, oh yes!” replied his old friend. “Every day; when I go into the basement, or when I go up stairs, even when I go to the you know where; I ask myself the question, what am I here after.

What is it that I wanted?”

There is a Psalm in the Bible that talks about two quite different lifestyles. Two diverse ways of living and two vastly different destinies to think about. In verse one the Psalmist has just brought to our attention various things that the happy contented Christian does not do. For one thing… we do not follow evil people’s advice. We also do not make a habit to hang around or associate with those who do evil things; those who scoff at the things of God. You and I know we cannot achieve sinless perfection. We can, however, decide to be different. We will differ with the things which control the life of the wicked. By that I mean; we have made up our minds that we will not accept the common cause with those whose aim in life is to do harm to God’s Word and to mock the things of God. Verse two… Our delight as a Christian comes from doing the things that please God. Day and night we meditate on God’s laws… thinking about ways to follow Him more closely.

Verse three… How can we do that? What does the Psalmist mean?

Sounds a bit strange or even weird one might think. However, when we talk about rivers or streams of water; for the Christian it means the Word of God, the Bible. “Are you sure about that?” But listen to what Isaiah the prophet says… Isaiah 55:10-11… (10) As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, (11) so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

(NIV) Verse 4-6 talks about the insecurity of the ungodly. Those who do evil, those who shun or reject the Word of God! What a different story.

See what the Psalmist says… “They shall be carried off by the winds like chaff when the winds come.”

Let me go one step further and point out that they are not safe on judgment day. Neither shall they stand among God’s people who strive to do God’s will. For the Lord God will watch over our plans and all that we do and the path we walk to keep us safe for eternity. But for the wicked, those godless people who continually do evil, their paths lead to doom. They shall perish; perish simply means “Lost.” It is a word of finality.

We have looked at two different lifestyles and two different destinies. One is a dead-end street; it leads to death. The other leads to life.

God says what is right and what is wrong. We are living in a day and age when folks are not sure what is right and what is wrong. But God is sure. His Word does not change with every theory and every new movement we hear or read about. The choice is ours. If we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ… Heaven will be our eternal home… To God Be the Glory Great Things He Has Done.

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

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

Stolen Vehicle Recovered After Crash At approximately 10:57 pm on October 16, Steinbach RCMP received report of suspicious person at Funk’s Toyota in Steinbach believed to have stolen a vehicle from the parking lot.

Police discovered the service bay door window was broken. Investigation revealed that a Toyota Highlander with dealer plates had been stolen from the parking lot. The vehicle was later recovered in the field at Elmdale School after it sustained extensive damage from colliding into the fence.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Assault Victim Transported to Hospital On October 6 at approximately 11:15 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a violent assault that occurred at a residence located on Principale Street in La Broquerie.

Officers attended and located a 33-year-old male, from Winnipeg, with life-threatening-injuries who was transported to hospital in critical condition, later upgraded to stable, where he remains.

Investigators were advised that the victim, along with a 30-year-old female, were approached by two males known to them. A physical altercation ensued and the victim was attacked by the two males and struck with a wooden club. The two suspects then fled the scene.

The investigation led to the October 8 arrest of 30-year-old Braden Churly and 33-year-old Dylan Churly, both from La Broquerie, who have been charged with Aggravated Assault and released for a court appearance scheduled for December 7 in Steinbach.

RCMP Look for iPhone Thief On October 7 at 2:24 am, an Apple iPhone 14 was stolen from the 7-11 by an unknown female, with blonde hair, fair complexion. The female is described to be wearing black clothing, black gloves, with a pink and black backpack.

Any information regarding the identity of this individual can be directed to the Steinbach RCMP Detachment 204-326-4452 or Manitoba Crime Stopper at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Horse Feed and Fuel Stolen from Co-op On October 16 Steinbach RCMP received a report of a theft from Clearview Co-op Agro Centre off road 39 North that occurred on October 14 between 4 pm and 5 pm.

Surveillance video captured a lone male on a motorcycle enter the yard. The male was wearing a heavy black jacket with black backpack and a red, white and black designed helmet. The motorcycle is believed to be spray painted black and now has a missing seat. The male stole 30 liters of fuel, a bag of horse feed and a jerry can.

If you have any information regarding this theft, police ask that you contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Antique Mailbox Targeted by Thief

One Arrested Following Execution of Search Warrant On October 31 at approximately 11 am, Steinbach RCMP, Police Dog Services, Ste. Anne Police, along with the RCMP Emergency Response Team executed a search warrant on Reimer Avenue in the City of Steinbach. Four occupants were taken into custody. A 32 year old male from Steinbach will be facing charges of Possession of methamphetamine as well as Failure to Comply with Release Order. The remaining three occupants were subsequently released without charge.

RCMP Seek Hooded Thief On October 3 a business located on Acres Drive in Steinbach suffered a break-in to their compound. The thief gained entry by cutting a lock off the gate and then proceeded to walk through the yard. The suspect arrived to the business on a bike.

The suspect was wearing a black and white jacket or hoodie. The thief’s hood was up and appeared to be wearing a ball cap.

RCMP is asking the public for their help in identifying the suspect in this case. If you have any information regarding this matter, please contact the Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-4452, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1800-222-8477, or secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com.

On August 28, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen antique mailbox. It is believed the mailbox was stolen by an unknown suspect approximately three weeks preceding the report. The mailbox was stolen from a residence on Stonebridge Crossing in Steinbach. It is described as three feet tall, bronze, and an antique. The estimated value of the mailbox is $650.

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

Keep all vehicles locked. Check on your neighbours.

Call 911 if you suspect a crime is in progress or has occured!

Be aware of happenings in your neighbourhood and report suspicious activity to the authorities.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

November 2023

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November 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch