De Salaberry Veteran Honoured
St. Adolphe Nursing Home Provides Rare Training Opportunity By Marianne Curtis The former St. Adolphe Nursing Home was the site of a rare training opportunity for a group of Level 1 firefighter students on March 29. For an entire day, six volunteer firefighters from St. Adolphe, Ile des Chenes, and Woodridge had a chance to perfect their skills within the abandoned nursing home. Troy Walker, a Senior Firefighter with the Winnipeg Fire Department and Level 2 Emergency Services Instructor admits that while teaching this particular class he learned a few new things during the exercise. “A facility like this is rarely available to train on, especially in the rural setting. I have been fortunate enough to have had some great structures to train with and use for live fire training, but I have never had a structure of this size to perform all kinds of skills training,” Walker admitted. “These students are getting the chance of a lifetime training in this facility and chances are, so am I.” The four story structure provided students an opportunity to experience just how intensive all of the skills required to initiate and coordinate a successful search and rescue of victims, as well as Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) training. RIT is a search and rescue team that has the sole purpose of rescuing a downed Firefighter(s). They also practiced ladder rescue and wall breaching. “Even though we won’t be burning this structure to do live fire training skills, it has provided us with opportunities we rarely get,
Former RM of De Salaberry resident Leonard Jorgenson was presented with a special 75th anniversary tribute for his service during the Second World War.
RM of Ritchot firefighter Jon Loewen carries instructor Troy Walker down the ladder during a training exercise at the old St. Adolphe Nursing Home. Photo by Marianne Curtis
specifically forcible entry training. The problem with forcible entry training is you destroy the props that you train with,” Walker continued. “Here we can perform all of this because we have so many of each of these props and, since this building is slated for demolition in the future, we do not have to worry about repairing what is destroyed.”
For thirty years, the now vacant building was used as a personal care home until it was closed in 2013. In 2006, Manitoba Health shut the facility down for a few months after it failed a fire commissioner’s inspection. Walker speculated on what could have happened if a fire had ever erupted in the
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On Saturday, March 28, Provencher MP Ted Falk, recognized three WWII Veterans at a special ceremony. Leonard Jorgenson, Alfred Landry and the family of the late Elmer Rempel, who passed away recently, were presented with a limited edition commemorative lapel pin and a personalized certificate of recognition signed by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. According to Ray Jorgenson, his uncle was one of six siblings who left their RM of De Salaberry home to fight in the war. Leonard and his brothers, Gordon, Morris, Warner, Jake and Bob all went overseas and returned home at the end of the war. “He was part of the air force and he was even shot down once. One of his buddies got shot down, and was caught on the plane with his wedding band. He never made it out before the plane crashed,” Ray explained. “Meanwhile, my uncle along with his five brothers volunteered and they all came back - he also refused to wear a wedding band. We are very proud of these men and it is a huge honour for them to be recognized.” On September 10, 2014, the 75th anniversary of Canada’s entry into the Second World War, the Canadian Government launched this tribute as a symbol of our country’s enduring pride and gratitude to all those who served during this conflict. Approximately 75 people were in attendance.
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April 2015
Hylife Fun Days Event Supports Charities
Employees from Hylife in La Broquerie presented a $47,700 cheque to Cystic Fibrosis Canada from funds raised during this year’s Family Fun Days.
On March 13 and 14, the employees from Hylife in La Broquerie raised $137,000 when they hosted the 6th Annual Hylife Fun Days event. HyLife Fun Days is an annual vendor and employee sponsored charity fundraising event. Since its debut, the event has focused on hockey and broomball engagement. This year, activities included hockey and basketball, which drew in ten teams of participants. “The objective of our fundraising event is to bring together HyLife staff and our valued vendors and suppliers to generate donations in the form of sponsorship whereby all net proceeds are equally divided and presented to identify charities,” stated Charlene Ramkissoon from Hylife. Three worthwhile charities will split the funds, including Cystic Fibrosis Canada, the Canadian CMV Foundation and Backstage Teen Drop-In Centre in Steinbach. “This year they contacted us at the Prairie Regional office to tell us that Cystic Fibrosis Canada had been chosen,” said a representative from Cystic Fibrosis Prairie Regional office. “We are so grateful as this generous gift will go a long way to fund research to find a cure or control for cystic fibrosis!” Previously the event has raised funds in support of CancerCare Manitoba, Children’s Wish Foundation, Southern Health’s Out of the Blue Program, Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, The Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba and Special Olympics Manitoba to name a few. In the past, the company has raised almost $200,000 combined.
Roy and Rosemary Entertain in Steinbach
Rosemary Siemens makes sweet music along with Roy Tan during a nearly sold out show in Steinbach. Photo by Marianne Curtis
By Marianne Curtis On March 4, the Steinbach Arts Council presented Roy Tan and Rosemary Siemens in concert at the Grace Mennonite Church. Known for their versatility, passion, musicianship, and style, pianist Roy and violinist Rosemary met while accompanying the Canadian Tenors on tour and have since been capturing the hearts of audiences the world over. Their repertoire included music from fiddling, pop, and gospel to Broadway, and classical. The highlight of the performance was a unique improv component where the audience shouted out words and phrases and the duo performed music to describe those images on the spot. Funds raised at this event went towards the projects of programs created to encourage young musicians such as the Friday Night Strings, Backbeat Music School, and the Creative Youth Council.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Fire Training continued... Continued from page 1 facility. “If there were an incident in this facility when it was occupied there are a myriad of issues, and obstacles, the fire department would face. The most daunting task would be getting all residents and employees out safely, if you can remove everyone,” Walker continued. “Four floors and two wings with multiple rooms holding multiple people, with an interior structure made almost entirely of wood spells disaster. You would not get away with building a wood frame structure for the purpose of what this building was used for these days.” The former residents were relocated to a brand new facility in Niverville after Heritage Holdings purchased the property. Initial plans were to renovate the building, until Level 1 firefighter trainees practice their entry techniques on the third floor of the vacant asbestos was discovered. building. Photo by Marianne Curtis
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RM of Piney Defends Spring Fire Service Book Sale Nets $19,000 By Marianne Curtis
The RM of Piney council found themselves responding to numerous allegations, assumptions and rumours recently after several recent delegations accused the local fire department of being inconsistent and allegedly negligent. In February, the municipality heard a delegation in chambers, and several complaints in the following week at Coffee with Council, about alleged issues with the way the Sprague Fire Department responded to several different incidents. In a letter dated February 9, Shelley Anderson asked for the municipality to go on record publicly. “My presentation to council was concerns that myself, and some local taxpayers, had in regards to the 911 emergency dispatch system and requested a copy of the current 911 policy,” clarified Anderson. “I provided information to council of concerns that I believe may require policy changes to how the RM of Piney Fire Department responds to 911 dispatches.” The following week, during Coffee with Council, Frances (Bobbie) Wesner posed several questions to the municipality. At the informal meeting, Wesner told the council how the response to three separate incidents involving medical emergencies in her home left her confused, and may have cost her husband his life. In the first incident, she called 911 and the fire truck responded. Wesner claimed she was told that STARS was dispatched; however they never arrived. The second incident, she waited for the fire department to respond like they did the first time, but they never did. The same thing occurred during a third 911 call. “This is very confusing to me as they did not respond to the second and third call; if they were not dispatched to the second and third call, then why were they dispatched
St. Labre 200 Team Registration Open The St-Labre 200 Inc. requires 14 teams to build their own go-karts within 24 hours. Using supplied materials, teams are challenged to build go-karts from scratch on the first day and race them the next day in a fast-paced, nail biting 200 lap race on a quarter mile dirt track. The main race takes place on Saturday evening and has the entire crowd in suspense. Team registration is open and will close as soon as the quota of 14 teams is met. Registration is done on a first paid ($800), first registered basis. In order to register and to make sure you are in the sand storm of the action with your go kart, go to our Website at stlabre200.ca and click on Events, followed by Teams, then Registration. This year’s St. Labre 200 will take place on Friday, July 10 and Saturday, July 11, 2015.
to the first call and who dispatched them,” Wesner asked. In all three situations, Wesner claims she questioned the fire chief only to be told “they did not get the call.” The RM of Piney responded to her questions later in the month saying that the “fire service has the discretion to respond to any request that the fire service deems necessary.” “Only emergencies that members are fully trained can be actioned. This does not limit the fire response, but the role would be limited to scene securement and call assistance,” states a letter signed by Piney CAO Martin Van Osch. “The performance of the volunteer firefighters is the responsibility of the fire chief, with oversight by the CAO,” continued the letter. “These matters are not public and are protected by FIPPA. The process for reprimand, suspension or dismissal is outlined by the Fire Protection Bylaw. Members are afforded an opportunity for a hearing before the municipality. Each complaint is reviewed and an appropriate course of action will be determined after careful consideration.” He added that the Fire Service is responsible to submit incident reports to the municipality within five working days of an event. However, under FIPPA, the RM of Piney can not discuss or disclose any information contained in any incident report.
By Marianne Curtis Thousands of gently used books found new homes at the end of March, making the Bethesda Regional Health Care Ladies Auxiliary’s most recent fundraiser a huge success. The Auxiliary’s annual Spring Book Sale which took place at the Clearspring Centre in Steinbach from March 2528 raised over $19,000. Verna Thiessen from the Bethesda Auxiliary says the money puts the organization almost halfway to their goal of raising $40,000 so they can purchase three separate items for the Bethesda facility. “We are very pleased that the sale went so well, especially with the snowstorm we had the first day,” Thiessen added. “Neither snow or sleet will keep the postman away, and neither did it, the readers. Even with the snow storm we had we did very well.” Prior to hosting the sale, the ladies met to discuss which items they were fundraising for.
Book lovers of all ages took advantage of the bargains at this year’s Bethesda Regional Health Care Ladies Auxiliary annual Spring Book Sale.
“One of these is the hospital chart project,” confirmed Thiessen. “At present each department in the hospital has their own chart form and this leads to inefficiencies when patients are transferred from one ward to another. Raising money for this chart project will allow standardization of charts and easier reading and moving forward in treatment of the patient at a cost of $15,000.” The second item on the purchase list is a surgery and obstetrics Specialty mattress, which is used for the comfort and improved treatment of the patients on both the Surgery and Obstetric Wards providing better healing and comfort at a cost of $9,000.
Also on the list is a BiliSoft for obstetrics. It is a portable phototherapy device for the treatment of neonatal jaundice. This equipment is designed to allow positioning and swaddling and other direct contact with the baby. Enabling the continuation of developmental care was an important consideration in the design of the BiliSoft. It will cost $16,000 for two. Over the years, the Bethesda Hospital Auxiliary has hosted several successful sales, which have raised over $500,000 for medical equipment deemed necessary for patient comfort or safety but not funding through Manitoba Health programs.
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April 2015
Campaigning By the Government is Hurting Legislation
A Listing Ship The NDP is a like a ship that is listing. They have lost their balance and just can’t seem to right themselves. The fact that the Manitoba Legislature is still shut and no budget has been presented is only one indication of the problems in the NDP. Virtually every other legislature in Canada has begun their fall session and many have already introduced their budgets. In Manitoba, the NDP do not intend to return to the legislature until the end of April. In the meantime, they have not said much about what type of legislation or other initiatives they would be interested in bringing forward in the spring when the legislative session does resume. Following their divisive family feud, they seem to be having a difficult time finding their way. Weeks after the NDP leadership vote where they returned Greg Selinger as their leader, no less than six members of the NDP still remained suspended and unable to sit in Caucus meetings. A good number of NDP MLAs and cabinet ministers voiced concern about the leadership of Premier Selinger. Many went as far as to say Manitobans do not trust him and that he doesn’t listen to
anyone who disagrees with him. Dawson Trail MLA, Ron Lemieux, also feels that Mr. Selinger isn’t the right person to be Premier as he supported a different leadership candidate during the NDP race. He wasn’t alone as several of his Caucus and Cabinet colleagues supported someone other than Mr. Selinger, a sign they don’t believe he should be leading the province. And it’s not just NDP MLAs who are caught up in this mess. Several NDP staff members have been pushed out of government because they didn’t support the Premier. This despite the fact that they were told that they were free to work on any of the leadership campaigns. It’s bad enough when voters have lost trust in a government, but with the NDP, they seem to have lost trust in each other. And trust in government is important. Whether it is government deciding where a hydro line should be located, or the amount of taxes that is fair to pay, or how at risk kids are cared for, trust matters. And when it comes to the NDP, there doesn’t seem to be trust either inside or outside of the government.
And so the legislature remains closed, a budget hasn’t been presented, the fighting continues inside the NDP and the government ship continues to list and take on water. And as the NDP try, their best to right the ship it is Manitobans who are left to pay for all the damage that it causes. I appreciate your comments and concerns. If you have any comments on these or other issues, you can contact me by writing, #3 – 227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB, R5G 1Y7, by phone at 204-326-5763, by fax at 204-346-9913, by e-mail at kelvin.goertzen@leg.gov.mb.ca or by visiting my website at kelvingoertzen.com. I look forward to hearing from you.
Small Business Owners Help Build Our Communities Last week I got to enjoy the best hazelnut coffee I’ve ever had. It was from Capo Di Grande, a new coffee shop in Île-des-Chênes. I had a great time sipping my coffee and chatting with Chris Ewen about his new business venture. Chris was travelling through Africa a few years ago when he ended up on a coffee farm where he fell in love with coffee made from fresh beans. This experience inspired Chris to share his passion for locally roasted coffee, right here in Manitoba. The Ewen family opened their first coffee shop in 2013 at Grand Beach and their second location in Île-des-Chênes early this year. Business is booming, especially with the launch of their online
coffee, tea and accessory store. They are even looking to open a third location in the near future. Capo di Grande is a perfect example of a thriving small business in Manitoba. I am always pleased to see new local businesses start up, because they are the heartbeat of our larger communities. Small businesses help our neighbourhoods in many different ways. Many small businesses are managed by the owners, right in the store. These people are invested in building relationships with people in the community. At places like Capo Di Grande, everyone knows your name. Being recognized is important because you get that sense of family and it helps build a thriving community.
Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.
The Dawson Trail Dispatch is a monthly newspaper distributed free of charge to 50 Southeastern Manitoba communities. Published by: One One Consultants Inc. Box 308, Richer, MB R0E 1S0 Phone: (204) 422-8548 Fax: (204) 422-9768 Dan Guetre, Managing Editor One One Consultants Inc., Publisher News Writers: Marianne Curtis and Dan Guetre Columnists: Lee Guetre, Peter Friesen, Anni Markmann, Peter Martens, Dave Millar Production/Design: Dan Guetre, Myriam Dyck, Monica Guetre and Wilma Priebe Advertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre
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Small business owners also help build community identity by giving our neighbourhoods a unique sense of place. When you shop at small, local shops, you’re putting money into our local economy, supporting your neighbours, family members and friends. This is why I am always happy to see another local business do well. If you would like to learn more about small businesses in our community, feel free to call my office at 204-878-4644 or visit my webpage at RonLemieux.ca.
Getting Bill C-51 is proving to be unnecessarily difficult. Both the USA and Australia have equivalent legislation with a Parliamentary oversight committee, which functions well, and why Prime Minister Harper is so adamant about not having an oversight component to this legislation is beyond childish. CSIS, our very own spooks are not any different than other spooks around the world. They will become an unaccountable totalitarian rogue entity. It is just the nature of spooks to gather information for the sake of information. Plus without accountability, this leaves too much room for petty tyrants and petty politicians to get even, with unsuspecting people who will not necessarily have the means to fight back against a stacked deck. The legal societies of Canada, retired judges, retired PMs and one hell of a lot more than half of the population have all been very clear on the need for accountable oversight. Even Michael Chong an Ontario Federal MP is strongly urging the same need for greater oversight of Bill C-51.Remember the old adage those who trade liberty for security get neither and deserve neither. This seems just another extension of tough on crime antidote, which is getting a wee bit old. The Prime Minister is acting like an old past his prime, gunslinger who has shot himself in the feet one too many times. How many of us after one generation will have been spied on for no apparent reason other than it became a bad habit on CSIS’s part? Precedent tells us that legislation and oversight are effective. The PM was also quoted as being in favour of people who live a fair distance from the police, could own guns to protect themselves. This statement his being gleefully promoted by the Conservative campaigned manager, who said he is proud of the Prime Minister’s pronouncement. This is not The United States of America; this is Canada where we do not have the right to bear arms. There are, as we all know a few too many misfits in any society as in any society, Americans notwithstanding, to allow everybody the right to be armed. If in the near future a misguided citizen gets a gun and uses it to protect him or herself against let’s say a metre reader trying to avoid the rain, will the RCMP arrest Harper and his Conservative campaign manager on criminal conspiracy charges, Eh? Tough on crime is for everybody isn’t it? Now the Prime Minister has put forward a motion to extend and expand our Iraq and now Syria mission. I am not sure under what legality we can enter Syria. Entering on what could be seen as helping Bashar Assad who has slaughtered thousand of his citizens seems like a cockeyed half way measure. Even if we could acquire the UN’s okay to first establish a no fly zone over Syria for Assad’s own criminal air force that is committing atrocities with barrel bombs, used gas on his own citizens in the past to survive by any means. This is not the person we want to be seen as assisting in with his despotic ways. If we would establish a no fly zone with our partners, yes then of course, we would own that responsibility, but this would more than likely shorten the amount of time needed to degrade ISIS. What we should not do is over stay. This has become a Sunni-Shiite struggle and taking sides in a religious war is not in Canada’s interest. Furthermore finding ourselves on the side of Iran and by extension Hezbollah and Hamas does not square well with many of us. Consequences are going to stick to us for a long time, and the stench will probably never ever leave. These are serious situations that confront us all and by dialling down the political rhetoric, it would help the Government’s vision in the long run, besides saving a wee bit of that Conservative rhetoric for the budget and the BBQ circuit.
The New No Democracy Party Webster’s Dictionary defines democracy as, “A form of government in which people choose leaders by voting.” The NDP tells Manitobans it values democracy. The word Democratic is in its party name, and the promotion of democratic institutions is even suggested as one of its key purposes in its governing documents. The NDP, however, has clearly demonstrated no commitment to democracy for Manitobans over the last number of months and years. During the last election campaign in 2011, all NDP candidates told Manitobans an NDP government would not raise the sales tax. Premier Greg Selinger even called the idea, “Ridiculous.” In 2012, though, Selinger expanded the scope of the PST to include basic items like home insurance and haircuts. And in 2013, Selinger raised the PST from seven to eight per cent. We saw another example of the NDP’s distaste for democratic participation in early March at its annual convention, when the party put off a decision on whether to adopt a one-member-one-vote method for electing its leader. It was during that convention that Selinger was re-elected NDP leader with 51 per cent support among NDP delegates, defeating his former cabinet colleague Theresa Oswald by only 33 votes. The most recent display of the NDP’s distaste for democracy came days ago when it elected its candidate for the byelection in The Pas. After the nomination race resulted in a tie between two candidates, the NDP brain trust felt the most appropriate way to decide the matter would be a coin-toss. Deciding the nomination with a coin-toss is an insult to all members of The Pas who actively participated in that contest. Perhaps most disgraceful, though, is the NDP’s lack of commitment to allowing the legislative assembly to sit. The NDP has not called the assembly into session for a single day so far in 2015. By comparison, our counterparts in British Columbia introduced their provincial budget in February and have sat more than two weeks this year. When you have an NDP candidate elected on the strength of a 50/50 coin-toss and an NDP premier re-elected by 51 per cent of party delegates, this is the sort of government Manitobans are left with. I’m convinced it’s time for a change. I look forward to hearing from you with any questions or concerns, and I can be reached at my constituency office at 204424-5406, my legislative office at 204-945-4339 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca.
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
Supporting Our Veterans Canada’s men and women in uniform make tremendous sacrifices on our country’s behalf. Our Conservative Government is committed to supporting them during their time in service and when their time in service is done. Indeed, since coming into office, our Government has taken strong action to improve the services and benefits available to Canada’s Veterans. We’ve invested over $5 billion in new funding to support Veterans programs. And, we remain focused on building on that strong record, to help ensure that Veterans and their families have the care and support they need. The health and well-being of Canada’s Veterans is an important focus for our Conservative Government. We are investing in new and expanded mental health initiatives and launched the Mental Health Services for Veterans Action Plan to help ensure that Canada’s Veterans have access to a robust suite of mental health services in timely manner. We opened a new Operational Stress Injury clinic in Halifax, Nova Scotia with front-line mental health professionals and experts. To ensure access to timely mental health services, we are opening additional satellite clinics across Canada. In addition, we are investing in mental health research, digitizing Canadian Armed Forces member health records, expanding the Road to Mental Readiness education campaign, and more. Our Conservative Government has also set out to make accessing services and benefits easier for Veterans. We have cut red tape – eliminating over 2 million unnecessary forms, emails and letters between Veterans and Veterans Affairs. We improved the My VAC Account, launched a partnership with Service Canada to provide more than 600 points of service across the country, and more, improving access to the information and services they need. Recognizing the unique challenges that Canada’s men and women face when transitioning into civilian life, our Conservative Government has also introduced targeted measures to ease the transition. We are helping Canada’s Veterans build meaningful second careers in the public sector with programs like Hire a Veteran and Helmets to Hardhats. And, through the Veterans Hiring Act, we will provide Veterans with priority access to employment opportunities in the federal public service. Canada’s Veterans have valuable skills, training and experience that make them strong candidates for civilian employment, and our Government is committed to helping them in this transition. Canada is indebted to the service of our Veterans, and our Conservative Government is committed to honouring their sacrifices and accomplishments. The Last Post Fund is just one example of how we are honouring the tremendous sacrifices of Canada’s Veterans. We doubled the funeral and burial amounts, and extended it to modern Veterans, ensuring that Canada’s Veterans are laid to rest respectfully. And to ensure that the legacy of Canada’s Veterans is remembered, our Government has invested in numerous national and international commemorative events including the inaugural National Day of Honour. And now, as we remain committed to responding to the needs of Canada’s Veterans and their families, our Conservative Government is introducing new measures to improve the range of services and benefits available to them. To help ensure that Canada’s Reserve Veterans get the respect and support they deserve, our Government is enhancing the Earnings Loss benefit that is available to them. Our measures will increase the minimum income amount for reservists so that it is equal to the minimum amount of Regular Forces Veteran. This increase is also extended to the survivor of a reservist. We are also introducing the Retirement Income Security Benefit, to ensure that injured Veterans have financial support beyond the age of 65. It will also provide further support for their families, with continued payments to the Veteran’s survivor. We are also expanding eligibility for the Permanent Impairment Allowance program to include Veterans who have severe and permanent limitation in mobility or self-care, increasing the financial support for more injured Veterans. And, our proposed Family Caregiver Relief Benefit will provide eligible Veterans a tax-free grant of $7,238 annually, to provide informal caregivers – most often, family members – a well-deserved break. This benefit will help cover the cost of bringing a professional caregiver into the home to help ensure the continued care of injured Veterans. These new measures build on the continuum of care available to Canada’s Veterans injured in service. They respond directly to the concerns raised by the Standing Committee of Veterans Affairs, Veterans and stakeholders, and the Royal Canadian Legion said the new initiatives are, “Very much welcomed.” Canada’s Veterans have served our country valiantly, and our Conservative Government is focused on delivering the services and support they need, and deserve. Please feel free to contact my office if you have any concerns or issues you would like to discuss. You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204-326-9889. You may also write my office at 8-227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, fax me at 204-346-9874 or e-mail me at ted.falk.c1@parl.gc.ca.
The Gong Show Dear Editor: The circus that was the NDP “Leaderless campaign” has left town. Now we return to the NDP regularly scheduled gong show. Ron Lemieux hosts the show in Dawson Trail. He announced that his party is stronger now than before the leadership mutiny. I would not describe a win of 50.9% of the vote a strong endorsement. This act is followed by his statement that the NDP party is now healthier for going through the leadership circus. I suppose if Ron Lemieux’s criteria of healthy is the way the NDP has run health care for 16 years, then this must also be true. Other contestants in the gong show is the parade of Theresa Oswald supporters who, in spite of Greg Selinger’s assurance of no consequences to party members for their choice of candidate for leader, are now faced with the choice of jumping from the good ship NDP or walking the plank. This is a choice made easier by the taxpayers of Manitoba, who have continually providing generous severance packages. These packages cushion Theresa Oswald’s supporters’ transition to other taxpaying districts in Canada. Ahh! The cycle of wealth! We now move on to the NDP magic show. Where making promises disappear and taxes appear out of thin air by the NDP are tried and true. In the election of 2011, seniors were promised that they would no longer have to pay school taxes. Some of their taxes were indeed
reduced, but now the matter has been deferred for a second time until 2016. Promised the elevator, given the shaft! To round out our entertainment schedule we move on into the twilight hours of this election period. What better time for a horror movie about the evil that awaits us when Brian Pallister becomes premier. The NDP gong show will close with the re-telling of scary campfire ghost
stories of the Gary Filmon days. Dawson Trail voters and Manitobans we can do and deserve better. Brian Pallister and his party can turn this NDP made disaster around, but this can only happen with your help. And that, my friends, is not a NDP science fiction show! David Sutherland Landmark, MB
April 2015
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
Gas Tax Projects to Be Completed this Year By Marianne Curtis Residents of the LUD of La Broquerie, Town of Ste. Anne and the Town of Niverville will soon be able to safely walk or bike to their destinations instead of having to share local roads with cars, trucks and farming equipment. The 2013 -2014 projects in each of these communities are being completed with funds from the Small Communities Transportation Fund, which reserves a part of the province’s annual federal Gas Tax Fund allocation to help address the active transportation and public transportation needs of Manitoba’s smaller communities. The three projects that were previously approved include construction of a new walking path in the RM of La Broquerie that was originally budgeted at $25,000 and a new sidewalk in the Town of Niverville estimated by council to cost $17,600, both being completed this spring. In the Town of Ste. Anne, accessibility funding was used to add an exterior ramp to the RM of Ste. Anne municipal office, an accessible sidewalk and to pave the parking lot. The Transportation Fund assisted with the recent completion of the wheelchair ramp and sidewalk, which had been approved by council at a cost of $14,870. RM of La Broquerie Reeve Lewis Weiss says walking paths are a meaningful contributor to healthy community. “The walking paths beautify our community and support our growth. They connect the community and make it personable,” said Weiss. “Frequent use by our residents illustrates the popularity of the walking paths.” Niverville Mayor Myron Dyck said building new sidewalks would help young families keep safe. “In a community such as ours where the average age is 31 years of age, we have many young parents walking with their children to and from various places and events,” Dyck added. “This means these young families will not have to walk on roadways but will have a greater network of sidewalks connecting them to the rest of their community.” The RM of Ste. Anne will be adding sidewalks and a wheelchair ramp to their new municipal building with the fund. The Government of Canada is contributing $30,404 to these projects under the federal Gas Tax Fund. Between 2014 and 2019, the Federal Government is providing over $340 million in funding for municipal infrastructure in Manitoba through the federal Gas Tax Fund. In Manitoba, a portion of the annual funding is set aside for the Small Communities Transportation Fund to support small, rural Manitoba communities’ investments in eligible transit, handi-transit or active transportation projects. Annual funding of up to $200,000 is available under the program over five years, starting in 2014.
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Fire Destroys St. Adolphe Home On March 6, fire crews from the RM of Ritchot, Tache and Niverville responded to a house fire in St. Adolphe. According to St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP, fire crews were called to the scene around 8:30 am. When fire crews arrived on scene the one and a half story home along with attached garage had already sustained extensive damage. No one was at home at the time of the blaze, which destroyed the nearly new home. Fire crews contained the fire and successfully kept it from spreading to neighbouring homes. Fire crews work at containing a blaze which destroyed a St. Adolphe home early in The cause of the fire was not March. released.
Heat Lamp Causes Barn Fire Four puppies and a dozen sheep were lost as a result of a barn fire southeast of Blumenort on March 29. Steinbach Fire Department, along with the Giroux Fire Department were called to the blaze around 10 pm. According to Steinbach Fire Chief Ken Toews, the building was fully involved by the time fire crews arrived. “We were concerned about the for the right equipment to get at the as a caused for the blaze. silo collapsing; the barn was tin and fire under the tin,” Toews explained. The mother of the pups managed when it collapsed, we had to wait A heat lamp has been determined to escape the fire unharmed.
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April 2015
Rural Economic Forum a Huge Success By Marianne Curtis On March 19, eighty-three people attended the first Regional Economic Forum in the area, hosted by the La Broquerie Community Development Corporation (CDC) in partnership with the RM of La Broquerie and RM of Piney. Richard Turenne, organizer of the event, said the one day meeting, which was held to get feedback from area business owners on whether they feel a Chamber of Commerce would be viable in the area was a huge success. The event, which took place at the Marchand Community Club, included presentations from Community Futures Triple R, CDEM and St. Boniface Chamber of Commerce member Robert Tetrault. “We have already got a good feel on what the communities want to see happen in the terms of economic growth and development,” explained Turenne. “The forum was done to get people and business owner feedback on what projects the CDC should get involved in.” He added discussions held on creating a local chamber of commerce generated some initial interest. Liberal candidate Terry Hayward who attended the economic event said, “It was a great evening in Marchand with
Eighty-three business owners and other interested parties from the RMs of La Broquerie and Piney gathered in Marchand for the first economic forum to be held in the area.
a gathering of business people from the RMs of Piney and La Broquerie.” The purpose of the meeting is to invite people to the table to discuss economic projects for both the RM of La Broquerie and Piney. The La Broquerie CDC is hoping to obtain more feedback before determining what their next step will be. Anyone interested in participating can email sdclabroquerie@gmail.com or call 204371-0379.
Ritchot Plans for Upgrades to Water Distribution In its recent Public Water System Report the RM of Ritchot’s treated water supply is scheduled to receive upgrades. The municipality’s water is pumped to four utilities stations located in Ste. Agathe, St. Adolphe, Ile-Des-Chenes and Ritchot Rural. In 2014, the municipality incurred one major expense to the St. Adolphe Pump House/Reservoir and Ritchot Supplementary Well site emergency backup generators at a total cost of $93,380. Beginning in 2015 the municipality has plans to increase and expand future water supply by installing new transfer pumps, a 150mm flow metre and stainless steel header in the Ritchot Water Plant ($64,505), upgrade electrical in the Ritchot Water Plant ($28,283) and extend the water main in Ile des-Chenes ($53,951).
Some People I Don’t Understand Do you remember right near the end of last month, when we had that one really wintery day? Some people were even calling it a snowstorm what with the way the snow was coming down and the wind was howling like a pack of hungry wolves. The roads had been in terrible shape as well, since the snow that fell on it obscured the lanes and the open areas were slick from the wind buffing the pavement shiny with snow. I’m pretty sure that most every one of us remembers that day, unless of course you were away on vacation. Since I was here in Manitoba, let me tell you something that occurred that morning. As I was carefully driving into work on that cold, blustery morning, I caught up to a small, dark-coloured car. Since it was travelling slower than I was, I reduced my speed even more and left plenty of room between us. After all, nobody likes a tailgater, especially when the roads are challenging. With the lanes being snow-covered and the visibility lacking, I didn’t want to bother passing and taking the chance of reducing the other driver’s visibility even more. Earlier I’d seen out my kitchen window that the weather was less than ideal and with that in mind, I’d left home earlier than normal to compensate for slower driving. As I was saying, I was following this car down the highway and everything was going good until I saw the tires on the passenger side of the car go off the pavement. Well, I guess they hooked the edge of the pavement as the driver pulled the car back onto the road because the car fishtailed across the road into the oncoming lane, back into our lane, oncoming lane then straight into the ditch. I’m not sure if the driver was still holding down the gas pedal but the car did manage to go down the side of the ditch, across the bottom and halfway up the other side; nearly hitting a stand of trees. Thankfully, there were no oncoming vehicles at the time. Figuring I would be a Good Samaritan, I immediately pulled over, turned on my hazard lights and went down to see if I could be of some help to the driver. As I approached the vehicle, I saw that the driver was already talking on a cell phone. Not wanting to startle the driver by banging on the window, I walked a few more steps forward so that I would put myself into the driver’s field of view. I expected the driver to acknowledge my offer of assistance by, at the very least, lowering the window and letting me know that my help wasn’t needed since help was already on the way. Imagine my surprise and shock when the driver merely waved her hand at me as though to shoo away a stray dog. Hurt, I returned to my truck and drove on to work where I was very nearly late. What kind of person doesn’t even have the decency to speak to a person coming to their aid? Some people I just do not understand. Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Blumenort Company Gains Federal Funding for Ag-Biosecurity By Marianne Curtis A Blumenort company will receive federal funding to expand and redevelop its truck washing facilities to improve biosecurity in the agricultural sector. The $825,000 will allow Blue Water Wash to upgrade both its Blumenort and Brandon facilities. Blue Water Wash is a division of Steve’s Livestock Transport Ltd. In Blumenort, the company will add five state-of-the-art washing bays, a baking bay and an undercarriage washing system and in Brandon they will add a baking bay. These upgrades are expected to create twenty new jobs and respond to a growing demand for these specialized services. The wash bays ensure even the most hard-to-reach areas of trucks can be washed and sanitized in an environment that is safe for employees. The baking bay can reach temperatures of 71ºC (160ºF) to sanitize vehicles, trailers and other equipment, which is the final step in an extensive sanitization protocol for transport. Steve Brandt, spokesperson for Blue Water Wash said his company is committed to biosecurity. “Our company is committed to being a leader in biosecurity, and the Growing Forward 2 program allows us to implement changes we wouldn’t be able to make
Provencher MP Ted Falk announced that Blue Water Wash in Blumenort would receive $825,000 for its expansions both locally and in Brandon while owner Steve Brandt looks on.
ourselves,” said Brandt. “Our new facilities will help us stay competitive in the global market and promote responsible practices in livestock transportation.” Provencher MP Ted Falk reiterated the importance of biosecurity in the livestock industry. “Canadian livestock producers work hard to provide high-quality products for consumers, while at the same time maintaining the highest standards in food safety, animal care and environmental protection,” said Falk. “Vigilance in biosecurity is key to reducing the spread of harmful diseases that can negatively impact the Canadian agricultural sector.” Prior to the expansion, the facility in Blumenort featured four wash bays and one drying bay, which helped to reduce the risk of spreading viruses, bacteria, weed seeds and fungi. Blue Water Wash currently washes livestock trailers for more than 430 farm sites every week in its Blumenort and Brandon facilities and has seen demand for these services increases by 40% annually.
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Ritchot Considers First Impressions Program The Ritchot Community Development Corporation (CDC) is considering participation in a program called First Impressions Community Exchange (FICE). Ryan Graves, Community Economic Development Officer for the CDC believes the entire municipality could benefit from participation. “I can see this program providing the outsider perspective that we need to be able to match our initiatives with our target audiences,” stated Graves. “I am hoping that Ste. Agathe and Ile des Chenes could take part this year in the program, with St. Adolphe and Grande Pointe next year.” Graves said volunteers are needed for
each community, to join a committee that will complete the assessment. He added that there was money available for projects identified through this process. The purpose of the FICE program is to help communities learn about their strengths and shortcomings through the eyes of first-time visitors. FICE is a structured community assessment that enables communities to realize the first impression they convey to outsiders. It offers a fresh perspective on the appearance, services and infrastructure of each community. A volunteer team from a community will undertake an unannounced, one-day visit, record their observations, and give constructive feedback to the exchange community. The knowledge gained through the First Impressions Community Exchange is intended to serve as a basis for community action.
Pat Porter Active Living Centre offers programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for older adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come and pay us a visit and consider participating in some of our programs. For more information drop by the Centre, Monday to Friday 9 am - 4 pm, call 204320-4600 or online patporteralc.com. Membership is only $30 per year for those 55 years of age and older. Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice in business meetings, voting rights and eligibility to serve on the board or committees.
Up and Coming Events and Monthly Programs Potlucks: On Thursday, April 9 at 6 pm. If you know, you are coming, please call ahead and let us know. Cost is $5 per person. Please bring a Salad, Casserole or Dessert large enough to share. Old Time Country Dance: Live band on Friday, April 24 – Small Town Limits from 8 pm - 12 am, lunch served at 10 pm. An assembly of veteran musicians who have been making music for over 30 years, their music ranges from older country hits, to 60s soft rock along with traditional fiddle music and French songs that local communities enjoy. Featuring Claude Desorcy on lead vocals and guitar, Marcel Desorcy on drums and vocals, Philippe Parisien on fiddle, James Reimer on lead guitar and vocals, Marcien Laurencelle on keyboards and Tom Parker on bass and vocals. Cost $10 for members in advance, $12 in advance for non-members and $14 at the door for all. Computer Lab: Need help with your computer skills? Call the centre and make an appointment. Labs are 1 hour long and available every Wednesday morning from 9 am – Noon. Please call the centre at 204-320-4600. Foot Care: On the first Tuesday, first Wednesday and third Tuesday of the month from 9 am - 2 pm. Run by a professional foot care nurse. Cost $30. Bring your own towel. Contact the centre to book an appointment. Parkinson’s Support Group: On Tuesday April 7 from 1 - 4 pm. Brain Injury Support Group: On Monday, April 27 from 7 - 8:30 pm. Beltone Hearing: On the third Friday of each month on April 17. Contact 1-800-661-2653 for appointment. Monday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 12 – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Pickleball 1 - 4:30 pm Model Trains 1 pm Canasta 7 pm Tai Chi Tuesday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 9:30 am – 3 pm Circle of Friends 12 – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Floor Shuffle 2:30 - 4:30 pm Family Search Wednesday 9 am -12 pm Computer classes - call to register 10 - 11:30 am Tai Chi 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Cribbage 1:30 - 4 pm Floor Curling 7 - 9 pm Old Time Country Band Practice Thursday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Whist 6 - 9 pm Pickleball Friday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Pickleball Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $6. Contact 204320-4605 by 9 am to reserve your meal for that day. Purchase your meal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menus available at the office or in the newsletter. Bring a friend. Volunteer Opportunities include perogy making, decorating and setting tables, birthday party hosts, food preparation and serving, clean up, greeters and receptionists.
April 2015
9
Construction of New Ambulance Garage in Ile des Chenes Begins By Marianne Curtis Residents in several communities will see an improvement in emergency medical response now that construction of a new ambulance garage in Ile des Chenes is complete. On March 17, members of the Southern Health Board of Directors and various levels of government were on hand to officially open the new facility. The project included the construction of a new 2,000 square foot facility in Ile Des Chenes. The new building, located on the same property as the RM of Ritchot fire hall, consists of crew offices and overnight facilities for EMS workers including washrooms and showers. Kathy McPhail, Chief Executive Officer, Southern Health-Santé Sud is pleased to see the project underway. “This investment will enhance services for residents and paramedics and presents renewed infrastructure in the community,” said McPhail. “This will allow us to improve response times while using our resources more efficiently.” The opening also opened up positions for eight more paramedics to serve the area. Ron Lemieux, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection said this new ambulance station is expected to provide additional support resulting in more consistent response times, especially in rural areas. “This investment improves access to emergency services and brings them closer to home, which is so important to families living in these communities,” added Lemieux. He noted that the median provincial EMS response time in rural Manitoba has significantly decreased to 12 minutes per call from 16 minutes per call in 2011. The new facility is expected to directly benefit residents living in a number of communities south of Winnipeg, including Ile des Chenes, Lorette, Niverville and
L-r - Ritchot Mayor Jackie Hunt, Dawson Trail MLA Ron Lemieux, Southern Health Board Chairperson Guy Lévesque, Southern Health Board CEO Kathy McPhail and Ritchot Councillor Ernie Dumaine cut the ribbon to officially open the IDC EMS station while the local ambulance staff looks on.
New Bothwell. Currently these communities received emergency services from either Ste. Anne or
St. Pierre-Jolys. The new ambulance station is expected to be completed in 2015.
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April 2015
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Friedensfeld Perogy Dinner fundraiser - On Sunday, April 12 at the Friedensfeld Community Centre from 12 pm – 1:30 pm. Funds raised will go towards kitchen renovations. Adults - $12, children (6-12) - $7, 5 and under – free. Contact Irene at 204326-1624. Hadashville Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great stress release and have an excellent workout at the same time. Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or KSTA.academy@gmail.com. Ile-des-Chênes Seine Singers Spring Dessert Concert – On Sunday, April 26 at 7 pm at the Trans Canada Centre. Featuring Seine Singers the Lorette community women’s choir, Plain Salt (local Celtic band. Cost Tickets $15 each (not available at the door). Contact choir members or Arlene at 204-878-2016. Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturday of every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn about Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive Blessed Rose Petals and other Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’s place of miracles. Contact Corinna 204-878-4908 or email her at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for more info and register. Kleefeld Soccer Registration - Games are on Mondays and Wednesdays in Kleefeld. Season begins May 5. Early registrations accepted if fees are paid in advance. Cost $20.00. Includes T-shirt with logo and wind-up with prizes for Ages 5 yrs and up, boys and girls. Volunteers needed for coaches and referees. A short soccer clinic will be held for all coaches on Thursday, April 30 at the Kleefeld Recreation Centre. Contact Dave Dueck at 204377-4177. Community Garage Sale – On Saturday May 16 from 9 am – 4:30 pm. Community Playgroup - for parents, caregivers and children ages 0-5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs and snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the Kleefeld Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013. La Broquerie Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de Santé from Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan, 204424-5285 or labseinerss@gmail.com. Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. Cost $10. Lorette 10th Anniversary Celebration - Biliothèque Taché Library - On Saturday, April 25 from 10 am – 2 pm 1082 Dawson Road. Face painting, LuLuBell the Clown, door prizes, refreshments, crafts. Entry and activities are free. Lorette Curling Club and Curl Manitoba – On Saturday, April 25 starting at 5 pm at the Parish hall. Deadline to register Saturday, April 11. Special event to celebrate community spirit and volunteerism with Canadian Curling Association Volunteer of the Year Harvey Lyons & Special Guest, 2-Time World Champion Jeff Stoughton. Cost Tickets $25 each and Phyllis’ Catering Banquet Dance Cash Bar. Contact curlinginlorette@gmail.com or call 204-878-3885.
horticulturist for CBC Radio and author. His presentation is sure to be humorous, passionate and very informative. Don’t miss it! Fabulous silent auction prizes! Delectable desserts with friends! For tickets call Anne 204-326-2396. Members $15/ non members $18.
groups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns. Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Jake Epp Library from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228. Information and Support Sessions
Breakfast and Social - Every Tuesday morning, 7:30 - 9 am St. Malo except the last Tuesday of the month when the social is held Sponge Puck Hockey – On Wednesdays at 8 pm at the arena. instead. Lunch starts at noon at the Mitchell and Area Seniors Come out and play for fun. Contact Gilles 204-347-5079. Centre. Contact 204-326-6944. St. Pierre-Jolys Babysitting Basic - On Monday and Tuesday, April 20 and 21 Morris Top Headliners - One Night Only - The Winnipeg Comedy from 4 – 8 pm at the Réal-Bérard School. First aid and care Festival will hit the Morris Multiplex on Friday, April 10 from 8 giving skills for youth 11 - 15 yrs old. Participants learn how – 11 pm. America’s Got Talent finalist and Tonight Show star to provide care to younger children in a variety of age groups, John Wing joins Just For Laughs, WCF regulars Graham and how to prevent and respond to emergencies. Cost $43 Chittenden, David Pryde, Simon Rackoff and local prairie rising (includes GST). Contact Rat River Recreation Commission to star Ben Walker for an all-star comedy adventure. Tickets $20 register 1-204-712-7773. each, available online or at the Morris MultiPlex Office. Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression, Boater’s Safety Course – On Saturday, April 25 from 6-10 pm bipolar, post partum mood disorders support group meetings held on the last Monday of each month at 7 pm at the Chalet at the Morris MultiPlex Corral Room. Cost $85 each. Malouin boardroom. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Spring Fling Craft & Bake Thing – On Saturday, April 25 from Hospital. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228. 10 am – 2 pm at the Morris Multiplex. Wide selection of items and vendor booths with crafts, collectibles, jewelry, purses, Ste. Agathe Ste. Agathe Cook Club – On Thursday, April 16 from 6:30 clothing, toys, and much more. Canteen open for a light Lunch. Free admission and parking. Contact Chelsea Gauthier 9:30 pm at the Cultural and Community Hall. Everyday meals with a twist. Deadline to register Thursday, April 9. A casual 204-746-2832, admin@morrismultiplex.ca. evening with no planning or kitchen required. All you have to Area Senior Services, Inc. - Helping Seniors enjoy their do is show up, cook and enjoy. We do the planning, shopping, independence for as long as possible. Serving Morris, Lowe and clean up the mess. Your hosts are Amanda and Sarah, a Farm and Rosenort. Contact Resource Coordinator Cheryl D. team of Registered Dietitians with a passion for health and a love of food. Come build your repertoire of recipes that will Waldner, 204-746-6336, mass@mts.net. leave a lasting impression and let us provide nutrition tips and kitchen skills to boost your confidence in the kitchen. We will Niverville The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club –Meets every Monday at have a chance to sample our good eats near the end of the 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to become evening, but be sure to have a light meal beforehand. Cost a better speaker, run meetings that are more effective or $50/person. Contact Amber Mamchuk Recreation Director develop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Club is the place to recreation@ritchot.com or 204-803-6115. start. Contact Sheryl Berglund, Sberglund4@shaw.ca. Ste. Anne GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced the Wii Bowling Games – Every Monday afternoon at 1:30 pm at loss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learn the Club Jovial. Great time to join even if you have never about the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to register played. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285. or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com. International Cooking Classes - On the third Wednesday of Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six. the month from 6 - 8:30 pm. Learn to cook authentic and Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the original foods from Columbia, India, Iraq, Philippines and lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.) Bolivia. Pre-register contact Jillian at 204-422-5293 or email Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along recservices@steannemb.ca. Coordinated by Eastman with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms Immigrant Services and Ste Anne Recreation. visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com. Computer Courses - Free at the bibliothèque Ste. Anne Library. For appointment, contact Harlee at 204-392-0568. Pansy Fundraiser Supper and Dance – Saturday, April 18 at the Pansy Hall. All donations going to the Maple Leaf Centre in Ukraine Toastmasters - The Carillon Toastmaster Club and past members are invited to join us to help celebrate the 35-year to support and improve the lives of young girls in milestone on Saturday, September 20 at the Club Jovial in Ukraine. Ste. Anne at 4 pm. Contact Flora 204-792-7095 or Sheryl 204326-7628. Prawda Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean Ste. Anne Cultural Committee - Invites artists of all kinds to runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondays their weekly open houses at 112 Centrale Ave. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact from 9 - 11:30 am and Wednesdays from 7 - 8:30 pm. These gatherings are to bring artists together to work on and discuss Wendy 204-348-2433. their craft and there is no cost to attend. Contact Diane at 204Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at 422-9599 or email cccsa@mymts.net. the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks Seine River Services for Seniors – Invite to all seniors interested provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290. in the Wii Bowling game to come, try it out and have fun. On Monday at 1 pm, at Le Club Jovial. Contact Juliette Rowan at Richer Seine River Services for Seniors - Program Contact Juliette 204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local Rowan Community Resource Coordinator at 204-424-5575 for services or e-mail labseinerss@gmail.com. Richer services or email labseinerss@gmail.com. Ste. Geneviève Richer Recovery AA - Group meets every Thursday and Saturday Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community from 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Lee at 204- Centre on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, from 6:30 - 8 pm. The next Library Night is on Tuesday, January 13 from 451-0255. 6:30 - 8 pm. Come for a visit and see what we are all about. Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey Pchajek Over 21,000 books including audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, large Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides print books and magazines plus they can import books from scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating any library in Manitoba. Special requests can be made to the grades 8 and 12. Children Under 14 must be accompanied by librarian, Brandi Schmitz at 204-878 - 9488, an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open bibliotachelibrary.com or in person. at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC License # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 Steinbach Call Out to All Performers- The Steinbach Arts Council is looking or doreen@spmf.ca. for performers for the KR Barkman Concerts In the Park. Musicians, Bands, Singers, Dancers, Visual Artists. Application Rosa Shevchenko Grad 2015 Bingo Fundraiser – On Friday, April 10 Deadline is Monday, April 6. Applications available at begins at7 pm at the Shevchenko Ukrainian Centre, Highway steinbachartscouncil.ca, events@steinbachartscouncil.ca or 59. Doors Open at 6 pm. Bingo, 50/50 Draw, Silent Auction and drop off at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre, 304 Second Street. cash prizes.
Bibby’s Journey Author Reading – On Tuesday, April 14 begins at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Bibby’s Journey by Winnipeg author, David Bibby. Have great conversation, ask the author questions and enjoy some free refreshments. Retraces his life and that of his family, from his birth in England at the onset of WWII, through the many unexpected changes, challenges, tragedies and triumphs he encountered, His new life as a Canadian citizen, and his deep appreciation for the many kind, wonderful and very often interesting people he has encountered.
The Bethesda Regional Healthcare Auxiliary - meets on the first Tuesday of every month except for the months of July and August at the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone interested in auxiliary work. Contact Verna Thiessen at 3263028.
Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) – Volunteer opportunities. If you go for walks, bike rides, jogs or even just drive around the community, please put on a COPP vest and show your support or help with administrative duties. Can you donate an hour per month? Contact Trevor, 204-955-3434 Lorettecopp@gmail.com. St. Adolphe Bud, Spud & Steak Event – On Saturday, April 11 at the St. New Horizons Seniors - Play cards, Scrabble, Wii and more. Adolphe Curling Club. Doors open at 5:30 pm, Dinner at 6:30 Drop in Tuesdays 1-5 pm at Foyer Notre Dame Lorette 12 pm, live entertainment at 9 pm. Cost Tickets $20 each. Contact St.Amant Ave. Contact Iris 204-878-3552. curlstadolphe@gmail.com. Marchand ATV Porker Derby - Relay for Life – On Saturday, April 11 meet at the Marchand Hotel. Registration begins at 9 am followed by a 70 km Derby. Cost is 3 hands for $20. Silent auction and cash prizes. Proceeds go to Relay for Life. Contact Bill 204424-4048, Dennis 204-424-5336.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
resistance training, flexibility and balance training. Monthly schedule is provided. All fitness levels are welcome. Options are $175 - 35 x $5 per class + 5 classes free, $120 - 20 x $6 per class or drop in $7 per class. Certified fitness leader Janice Burnett. mjburn@shaw.ca.
EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT TO EDITOR@DAWSONTRAIL.CA OR FAX 204-422-8548
Anola 25th Anniversary Parish Celebration - On Saturday, May 9, Mass at 5 pm at Our Lady of Hope Church with a Banquet at 6:30 pm at the Anola Community Centre, All parishioners and former parishioners of Our Lady of Hope Roman Catholic Church are invited to attend a Contact Liz 204-853-2007, echongva@mts.net, Lucille 204-755-2821.
More Than Just News!
Emergency First Aid/CPR/AED- On Saturday, April 11 from 9 am - 4:30 pm. Cost $85 for 3 year Red Cross certification. Standard First Aid/CPR/AED – On Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12 from 9 am - 4:30 pm. Cost $125 for 3 year Red Cross certification. CPR/AED only classes - various times within the above dates. Contact 1-204-371-1595, info@eastmansafety.ca. Strategy Game Night – Every 1st Saturday from 12 - 5 pm and every 3rd Wednesday from 6 - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Come on down to play some games. Bring a friend, your strategies and games. Test your skills and have fun. Contact Madison Friesen, 204-326-6841, programs@jakeepplibrary.com, librarian@jakeepplibrary.com.
Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at the Magnolia Restaurant. Contact 204-326-2313. Carillon Toastmasters - meetings are open to adults who want to improve their leadership and communication skills. Thursdays at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, Contact Sheryl at 204-326-7628 or Irene at 204-424-5737. Steinbach Al-Anon Program - Meetings held on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm. Steinbach United Church, 541 Main St. Ring the front door bell. Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group starts at 4:30 pm at Steinbach Family Resource Centre B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact 204-346-0413. Vita Susydka Ukrainian Dance Club 35th Anniversary Recital - On Saturday May 23 at 3 pm at the Shevchenko School Gym.
Family Movie Night – On Friday, April 24 from 7 - 8:30 pm at Jake Epp Library. Garfield: The Tail of Two Kitties (rated G). Admission and popcorn are free. Contact Madison Friesen, 204-326-6841, programs@jakeepplibrary.com
Susydka Ukrainian Dance Dinner & Dance Fundraiser – On Saturday May 23 at 6 pm at the Vita Hall. Celebrate 25 years of Ukrainian dancing in southeast Manitoba. A delicious supper of homemade perogies, meatballs, cabbage rolls and all the fixings before the band Kalyna gets you polka’ing all night Police Academy - Public Safety Workshop – Every Thursday long. Ticket Cost for dinner and dance $20 per person. Contact afternoon from Thursday April 23 - May 28 from 1 - 3:30 pm at Michelle 204-425-3040, susydkadanceclub@gmail.com. the Pat Porter Active Living Centre. Registration deadline on Thursday, April 9. Free admission. Refreshments provided. 12- Woodridge hour workshops spread over 6 weeks. Presentations on identity T.O.P.S -Taking Off Pounds Sensibly - On the second Wednesday theft, planning your future, falls prevention, safe banking of every month at the Community Club. For club hours of practices, frauds & scams, safety at home and on the street, fire operation, contact Stan 204-429-2253. safety, emergency preparedness, safe driving practices, scooter safety, medication safety, elder abuse substance abuse and The Mobile Clinic – Is onsite on the third Thursday of every gambling. Contact Carrie at 204-320-4604. month from 9 am – 4 pm at the Community Club. Contact for appointments 1-855-644-3515 or southernhealth.ca Steinbach Community Garage Sale – On Saturday April 25 beginning at 9:30 am TG Smith Arena. Bring your treasures to General sell, or come down to find that diamond in the rough. As in past Join the Farm & Food Discovery Centre for TecTalk – The years, all recovered City of Steinbach bicycles will be sold at Innovation & Technology Behind Your Food on Wednesday this sale. If you would like to reserve a spot to sell your goods, April 29, from 7 - 9 pm. Discover the innovations that go into the cost is $20 per spot. Contact Jason 204-346-6217, creating the food that you eat. Farmers will provide an jpeters@steinbach.ca. interesting perspective. Join us for appetizers and coffee at 7 pm. Spaces limited for all events. Please RSVP to reserve your Healthy Eating Cooking Classes - Every other week on spot. Contact 204-883-2524 or email ffdc@umanitoba.ca. Thursdays at South East Helping Hands. No Charge, enjoy a Drive south on Route 75 - Pembina Highway from Winnipeg, meal with other community members and learn how to plan & 3km past the St. Adophe turnoff (Hwy 210). Turn left (East) prepare healthy meals on a budget. Contact and register 204- onto Research Station Road at the two flagpoles and brown 326-2599 or southeasthelpinghands@gmail.com. signage. Adult Book Club - Tuesdays from 7 – 9 pm. Bring book suggestions or peruse our book lists. Meet some other book lovers too and bring a friend. At the Jake Epp Library 255 Elmdale St. Contact Tracey Pankratz 204-326-6841 programming@jakeepplibrary.com. Ladies Get Fit Classes - Sponsored by Eastman Immigrant Services, every Wednesday at 7:15 pm at the Woodlawn School gym. Aerobic, circuit training, weights, mats and stretching exercises. Suitable for all ages and levels of fitness. Register contact Lois 204-346-6609. Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the United Church of Steinbach, 541 Main St. Registration for girls 5-17. Develop personal values and well-being, self-respect and respect for others; promote fun, friendship, adventure and challenges through new experiences; develop leadership and decisionmaking skills; give service to the community; value the natural environment.
Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- On Tuesdays, April 14, May 5 and June 9 from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Join us for a great day of fun and friendship. Visit McPhillips Street Station in the morning and Club Regent in the afternoon. Starting at 8:30 am pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village. Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cash giveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from the casinos for those wishing to play. Overnight trips to South Beach Casino Folklorama are also available. Contact Marilyn at 204-326-4939 to reserve your seat.
Protecting Ground Water by Sealing Abandoned Wells
Green Drinks South Eastman - South Eastman Transition The Seine-Rat River Conservation Initiative presents Green Drinks South Eastman. On the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 7 pm at Lecoka, 8B - Brandt Street. District (SRRCD) is now accepting Drop in and discuss sustainable living. Contact applications for the 2015 abandoned rebecca_hiebert@yahoo.com. well sealing program.
The SRRCD will cover up to 100% of
The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon except the total cost of sealing your private well. when Monday falls on a long weekend at the Chicken Chef, 365 Main Street, visitors are welcome. Contact Cornie at 326- The well sealing program is part of their ongoing work to reduce the potential for 3155.
groundwater contamination. Old wells
Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for family that are not maintained can allow Rotary Fund Raiser Banquet – On Thursday, April 9 from 6:30 and friends of people with mental health issues are held the pollutants to directly enter the aquifer – 9 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village, Hwy 12. Contact 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden East below. Ed Peterson, ed@sefe.ca. building, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email Large diameter dug and bored wells eastmanmss@mts.net pose a serious risk to public safety. Steinbach and Area Garden Club - On Monday, April 13 at 7 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village. Join Marilyn Latta, MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living with These older wells can be a hazard for Chair of the Habitat Conservation Committee for Nature multiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursday children and animals that could fall into Manitoba, to learn how to incorporate beautiful and hardy evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place them. In 2014, the SRRCD sealed 28 native plants into your garden to attract pollinators. apartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services wells in our district. The cost of sealing Refreshments! Door prizes! Everyone welcome. Non-member Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email each of these wells was funded by the fee $5. More info at www.sagardenclub.com. nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca.
50+ Fitness Classes - Every Monday & Friday at 9:30 – 10:30 am. Focus on strength, flexibility and range of motion movement on a variety of equipment, such as weights, stretch tubing and stability balls. Wednesdays 1 - 2 pm workout is for slow flow yoga inspired strength, flexibility, balance and relaxation. Pre-purchase 10 classes for $40, 5 classes for $20 or drop in for $5 per workout. Special deal purchase 30 classes Steinbach & Area Garden Club hosts A GARDENER’S DESSERT Mitchell $120 get 8 free. Instructor Janice Burnett, a certified fitness EVENING on Monday, April 27, 7 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village. Topic: GARDENING: Its Wonder, Mystery and Allure. Auction & Bake Sale – On Saturday, April 25 at 6 pm at the leader. Contact mjburn@shaw.ca. Guest speaker Lyndon Penner will explore why we garden, Mitchell Seniors Centre. Steinbach Sommerfeld Mission Sisters fundraiser. All proceeds go to Missions. Contact Erna 204- Fitness Classes –Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 8 - 9 why we need to and the fascination of mysterious and 434-9944. pm at the St. Adolphe School Gym. Include cardio fitness, magnificent plants. Hailing from Calgary, Lyndon is a
SRRCD.
Applicants need to complete a form MS Lunch Group- On 4th Thursday of every month, from 12 – 1 pm at All D’s Restaurant 320 Main Street. Contact Stephanie and provide a refundable deposit of Bevacqua 204-988-0904, $100. For information on the program, Stephanie.Bevacqua@mssociety.ca. contact the SRRCD offices either in La Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support
Broquerie or Vita or online at srrcd.ca.
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Toews Has Tax Breaks – Wages Garnished Families and Seniors in Rental Dispute By Marianne Curtis Former Provencher MP, and Manitoba Judge Vic Toews found himself before a judge himself recently to discuss a rental agreement after he failed to pay out a lease with an Ottawa landlord. Earlier this year, Toews’ wages were seized in order to fulfil a lease agreement with Raymond Desmarais. Documents show that when Toews resigned from his cabinet post July 2013, he did not pay $3,900 for the remaining months of his lease on a Gatineau, Quebec property. Desmarais took the matter to the tribunal in November 2013, and won. Toews appealed that decision to the Quebec rental tribunal, but lost. Toews says he did not know the tribunal’s decision until he realized his salary was being garnished, saying he could not read the Frenchlanguage documents that were sent to him last December. Administrative Judge Pierre Gagnon said that as a judge and a former Federal Justice Minister, Toews should have paid attention to a document entitled “DECISION.” In an unrelated matter, Toews is under investigation for a possible conflict-of-interest violation in connection with dealings with a lawyer for a Manitoba First nation shortly after he resigned from federal politics. Earlier this month, NDP MP Pat Martin requested Mary Dawson, the federal ethics watchdog to conduct an examination under the Conflict of Interest Act, which prohibits former federal ministers from doing work for any person or organization with which the office holder had “significant official dealings” before leaving government. Martins brought the matter to the House of Commons on March 13. He told them it’s time to tighten up past employment rules for ministers and their spouses so they are unable to exploit their positions. Martin also referred to media reports that Toews’ common-law wife, Stacey Meek, received compensation for work representing the Peguis First Nation. Meek recently attended the Winnipeg Police, claiming that “absurd” financial records appear to show a transfer of almost $1 million from Peguis First Nation to her company which is registered as 6572155 Manitoba Ltd. According to court records, the purported transfer of money is in a trust account ledger presented to the Peguis First Nation by its former lawyer Jeffrey Rath to show how he disbursed $966,500 for “strategic advice” from 6572155 Manitoba Ltd. Meek says her company was paid less than $50,000 for work she did for Rath, and she has never worked for Peguis. While in Cabinet, Toews had extensive dealings with Peguis, specifically with providing millions in funding for flood proofing.
“Do you consider yourselves rich and wealthy?” That is a question I have asked many families in the past several weeks since we started filing 2014 tax returns on February 10. The 2014 tax year is the first time the “Family Tax Cut” became available to families (couples with children under age 18). The tax saving can be up to $2,000. It is most common when couples are in two different tax brackets. I have met many families that have benefited from this tax cut. So I point it out to them and let them know how much this tax cut has saved them. They are impressed and/or surprised. A few had known it was available and wondered if they would get any tax cut. And then I explain that when the tax cut was introduced last November, the current federal government was criticized for making a tax cut that only benefits the rich and wealthy (assuming those are the only ones that would benefit). So I ask each couple across my desk, “Do you consider yourselves rich and wealthy?” And their answer is, “Of course not,” or “Not at all.” So there are many families in our part of the province that have a bit more money in their pockets. And the good news is they will likely spend their tax savings in our communities. There was another tax break announced last year, but I think it has had unintended consequences. Last year, our provincial government announced it would begin to remove all the school taxes from property taxes for seniors. For 2014, the tax break is up to $235. Most people would think this is a good tax break. However, it has not helped many seniors who own their own home, that have lower income. Let me explain. When filing taxes, we include information about the property taxes, including the school tax levy they have paid, as there are up to $400 additional refundable provincial education credits available to low income seniors. However, if they applied for and received their $235 tax break after they paid their property taxes, the income tax credits available to them are $235 less. Yes, their refund they normally would expect is $235 less than last year. So lowincome seniors have seen no benefit at all. I believe that this tax credit sounded good on paper and maybe was good “politics” but it has helped only middle income and high-income seniors. Not any of the low-income seniors. Plus it does not help those who are renting or those who own mobile homes on rented land (mobile home parks like Paradise Village near Ste. Anne). I believe that school taxes should be eliminated completely on everyone’s property taxes. The revenue required by the Provincial government to pay for our primary schooling should come from general revenue (yes, personal income taxes). That way those with higher incomes pay more; those with lower incomes pay less (or nothing). This is the fairest way of collecting taxes to pay for schools. A quick reminder to get your 2014 personal income taxes filed by April 30, 2015. Especially if you owe additional taxes (didn’t have enough deducted from your different sources of taxable income). If you are expecting a refund, you do have three years to file. If you are self-employed like me, you do have until June 15 to file your taxes without penalty. Keep in mind that the amount owing does attract interest from May 1. So if you know you will owe some taxes, you can still pay some by April 30 to reduce the interest (5%) and still file by June 15 to avoid the penalty. Anni Markmann is a personal income tax professional working, living, and volunteering in our community. Contact Anni at 204-422-6631 or Anni@SteAnneTaxService.ca or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne.
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More Than Just News!
Shevchenko Students Celebrate Out of the Blue The fifth annual “Out of the Blue” campaign was launched in Vita at Shevchenko School. This year’s launch included students from Grades 7 through 12, community members and service providers throughout the east area of Southern Health-Santé Sud to help raise a New Voice for Mental Health. “Out of the Blue” is a regional public awareness and education program that aims to inspire and inform students and youth, residents, businesses and agencies in southeast Manitoba to make positive mental health a priority by creating a new voice for mental health and mental illness in our region. Out of the Blue is a program developed by the Southern Health-Santé Sud Suicide Prevention Committee with funding from Manitoba Health. The committee includes people affected by or concerned about suicide, community agencies, public health and mental health organizations, and faith-based organizations and is chaired by Kim Heidinger of the Manitoba Schizophrenia Society. “Robb Nash performed there and he did an excellent performance and talk about suicide prevention
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Messiah ...Featuring Canzona - Celebrating their 26th season under the direction of Elroy Friesen. Enjoy Manitoba’s Professional Baroque choir, accompanied by musicians from the WSO, together with our region’s finest choristers directed by Ed and Millie Hildebrand. On Sunday, April 12 at 3 pm at the E Free Church. Tickets available at SAC! Contact 204-346-1077. Cost Adults $20, Students $12, Music Student Special $6.
Backyard Theatre Final Production – Adventure Quest Do you have children that are energetic, creative and love to act? This is a perfect family opportunity! Manitoba Joe, Search for TreasARRGH! Ballad of Durathor and pieces performed at The Southeast Music Festival. On Thursday, April 16 at 6:30 pm. Cost Adults $9, Students $5, Family Special 4 for $24. Contact 204-346-1077 for tickets.
Yoga-size your Way to a Healthier You Try Gentle Flow Yoga with Bettianne Jolicoeur - Explore the relationship between your breath, mind and heart with Gentle Flow Yoga. Session runs 8 weeks, Tuesday evenings from 7 - 8:15 pm. Starting on Tuesday, April 21.
The biggest event of our Gallery Season In Vita, Shevencko School students released blue balloons to kick off this year’s annual Out Join us on Friday, April 10 to check out the 17th Annual Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit and works by over 90 artists from southeastern Manitoba! These of the Blue campaign. include paintings, photography, pencil drawings, pottery and more. Come celebrate with us at 7 pm at the Cultural Arts Centre Hall Gallery. and general well-being for youth. of the Blue campaign is again Summer in the City – Looking for volunteers to help backstage (set up and Then we took students outside for targeting high school students, take down, technical crew), work with the Artists in the City Tent Committee. the balloon launch and we businesses, individuals and EARLY BIRD! Arts for Tots Preschool Program - Early Bird Fall Registration released bio-degradable balloons community groups of all sorts to start Monday, April 13. into the air to kick off the event,” get involved and help raise a New Parents love our Arts focus! Ages 3 - 5 learn early childhood education through explained Heidinger. “There was a Voice for mental health. Our new Dance, Theatre, Music, Visual Arts... and Culture! Choose from Monday through lot of excitement at the school voice is being heard through the Thursday, morning or afternoon. about this event, the kids have initiatives of mental health EARLY BIRD! Summer Arts Day Camp – Early Bird Summer Registration really enjoyed it and the teachers awareness, suicide prevention and starts Monday, April 13. Get creative this summer with a fusion of art, music, have gotten involved.” stigma reduction presentations. dance, drama, recreation and much more! Choose from 7 weeks of different themed Building on the success from Although suicide intervention previous years, this year the Out and prevention remain, the primary camps. Performers and Visual Artists! We are now taking applications for the KR focus there has been a shift to Barkman Concerts in the Park series. These are free concerts in KR Barkman Park include discussions on mental health and mental illness and what on Main Street, proudly sponsored by Barkman Concrete Foundation. Download application forms online – deadline is Monday, April 6. it means to youth. This year’s Looking for youth – Join the Creative Youth Council! Be a part of community presentations were delivered in events planned BY you and FOR you! Upcoming events include the Summer in five schools, including Morris School, Ste. Anne Collegiate, Ecole the City Festival (Youth in the City zone) and our third annual Battle of the Saint Joachim in La Broquerie and Bands. Contact the SAC Office. Spring Classes at SAC! the Institut Collegial De St. Pierre in St. Pierre-Jolys. Get Active, Feel Great – NEW! Gentle Flow Yoga, Pilates. The second component of Out of Adults – Digital Photography, Beginner Oil Painting. the Blue is the Blue Activities. Music Lessons – Piano, Voice, Theory, Flute, Guitar, Accordion with the Schools, organizations and Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts, or the Southeastern Manitoba Teachers’ community groups are challenged Association (SMMTA) to create and implement a Blue BACKBEAT SCHOOL OF MUSIC… Activity to help raise awareness Ages 12-17 GET OUT OF THE BASEMENT…TRY IT FOR FREE! around mental health and suicide If you want to get together with others, be in a band, or jam with other musicians, prevention. we have the perfect program for you! It’s our BACKBEAT SCHOOL OF MUSIC All Blue Awareness Activities for ages 12 - 17, and it’s mentored by Trev Schellenberg, a very talented local registered on the website were musician, radio personality and program director. Only $9 a workshop – looking promoted by Out of the Blue, and for singers! be eligible to attend our Blue Gala. Saturday mornings at the Centre. Next session on April 11 - Performance This year the Gala is scheduled to opportunities too! Call Cassandra to register today. take place May 7 at the St. Pierre Friday Night Strings Recreational Centre, St. PierreIf you love playing the violin, and like to play with other violinists, this is for Jolys. you. Under the mentorship of Faith Fehr for ages 5 - 15 years from 7 - 7:45 pm on Fridays, April 10, 24 and May 8. Mini Recital is May 22. Only $4 per session!
Upcoming Events CHANCE TO WIN! Anne of Green Gables Community Musical directed by David Klassen Wednesday, April 29 – Sunday, May 3 – ALL SHOWS SOLD OUT! Check SAC website for any tickets that become available. ‘Celebrate the Arts’ Vegas Style. The Steinbach Arts Council fundraising gala is on Friday May 8 at Friedensfeld Community Centre. Enjoy an exquisite evening of delicious food, sparkling jewels from our jewelry tombola, and dancing. Cast your bid for original artwork in our Fine Art Auction. Save the date!
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
April 2015
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Artist’s Exhibit: the Beauty of Farm Animals By Marianne Curtis Over one hundred and thirty came out to help La Broquerie artist Lynda Toews celebrate the recent release of A Place in the Kingdom: Paintings and Stories Celebrating Farm Animals art exhibit opening reception. The exhibit, which opened March 15 at the Mennonite Heritage Centre Gallery, is guaranteed to transport you back to simpler times. The gallery show features some of Toews finest pieces. It consists of fifty acrylic on canvas pieces accompanied by twenty-two stories from people around Manitoba who have grown up on farms. “Five paintings along with several prints and cards sold that night and ten people participated in the free-for-all storytelling part after the invited storytellers finished reading,” Toews said. “Thank you everyone for showing up and participating!” Each canvas captures the pure beauty of the common farm animal from simple chickens scratching in the farmyard to a group of curious cows lined up along a fence. “One of the things I noticed while driving through this area was the variety and beauty of the local farm animals,”
Trustee Recognized for Years of Service
Three generations share stories at the Mennonite Heritage Centre Gallery’s opening of La Broquerie artist Lynda Toews’ exhibit titled A Place in the Kingdom: Paintings and Stories Celebrating Farm Animals.
Toews said. “Most of these paintings are from pictures taken around southern Manitoba.” “Working with this subject matter led me to explore how farm animals contributed to the Mennonite journey of survival,” Toews continued. “I hope the shared stories will forge stronger connections between generations, as well as rural and urban people.” The exhibit will be on display at the Mennonite Heritage Centre Gallery 600 Shaftesbury Blvd in Winnipeg from March 13 - June 20. The pieces are also available for purchase. Volunteers from the St. Pierre-Jolys Museum have already begun collecting fresh maple sap in preparation for this year’s Cabane Sucre at the Sugaring Off Festival which is taking place April 11 and 12.
St. Pierre-Jolys Museum to Host “Sweet” Party During the month of April, the annual Sugaring Off Festival will take place in St. Pierre-Jolys on the grounds of the St. Pierre-Jolys Museum at the Cabane Sucre. The annual Sugaring Off Party is being held on April 11 and 12 from 10 am – 5 pm in the Cabane à Sucre, which is located at the Musée de Saint-Pierre-Jolys Museum in St. Pierre-Jolys. Each year, visitors from all over the
province attend the free festival, which is designed to celebrate the tradition of tapping Maple sap to make syrup and maple butter. As part of the celebrations, visitors to the Cabane Sucre are shown how to properly tap a Maple tree for the sweetness inside, witness the
dehydrating process first hand and then given the opportunity to sample the finished product. The annual weekend event promises to be full of activities, including taffy on snow, an interpretive centre demonstrating the production of maple syrup, horse wagon rides, museum tours, traditional French-Canadian dining and local entertainment. Prior to the event, over a dozen rural and Winnipeg school groups will come during the week to watch the sugaring off process beginning with tapping maple sap from the four hundred and fifty trees around St. Pierre-Jolys, down to making and enjoying the final product.
A Seine River Trustee was recently recognised by the Manitoba Associations of School Trustees with a long service award. Theresa Bergson was first elected to the board sixteen years ago as Ward 3 trustee. “Being a school trustee has become something I view with deep respect. Not for myself, but for those who have entrusted me to take care of their children’s future. But the politics are the least fun about this position,” stated Bergson. “Ward three is a big ward with lots of very different needs. What works in Ste. Anne may not be best for students in Richer or La Broquerie.” She adds that she’s witnessed many changes over the years not just to the education parts of school but the growth within Seine River School Division. “We do more for the students now then even five years ago,” Bergson says. “Then there is the “f” word, funding. I know it’s easy to pass the buck and say the government does not supply enough money. There is never enough money in a budget… kinda like home. But it’s finding ways to make sure we do our job the best we can, and we are still only people.” “Kids make me want to be a better person so I can do better for them. I think one of the biggest changes over the past years has been our change and investment into the arts. I am very proud to have been involved with this change,” Bergson concluded.
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More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Ritchot to Meet with Province Over Intersection By Marianne Curtis Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation (MIT) has requested a meeting with the RM of Ritchot Council to discuss cross walk concerns in Ile des Chenes. Last month, after a nearly fatal accident at the corner of Highway 59 and 311 near Niverville, the department has been auditing trouble spots in various communities, including Ile des Chenes. The RM of Ritchot is hoping that Manitoba Infrastructure and Ritchot Mayor Jackie Hunt said the department Transportation will approve the installation of a crosswalk and better controls at this busy Ile des Chenes intersection. has invited the municipality to the table to discuss the possibility of installing a crosswalk across to control north and southbound traffic. The the old Highway 59, at the junction of Dumaine municipality also requested to take over ownership of Road in Ile des Chenes. the old 59 highway, but that process has not proceeded “This has been a long time concern for the very quickly. municipality,” confirmed Hunt. “We have been It was noted the developers who are building the asking the province to do something at this condominiums, signed agreements to install proper intersection for years, and we are optimistic that sidewalks adjacent to the new developments but they since they requested the meeting, it will finally have not been constructed to date. be addressed.” The intersection in question is currently controlled with a two-way stop. Over the last few years, a large number of condominiums, apartments and businesses were built on the west side of the old highway, leading to the high volume of pedestrian traffic, especially before and after school. On March 29, shortly after 7 pm, Steinbach RCMP Ritchot Regional Chamber Board Chairperson Derek Roth said he would like to see a four way responded to a two-vehicle collision at the intersection stop and crosswalk installed across the busy of Highway 12 and Provincial Road 28 North, just south of Steinbach. A pickup truck and a car collided highway. “It is not uncommon to see a dozen school head-on. The 55-year-old male driver of the truck and his 55children trying to cross that highway, and drivers go through there at 80 km per hour,” Roth stated. year-old female passenger, both from Ste. Anne were transported to local hospital with non-life threatening “It is an accident waiting to happen.” A number of years ago, after Highway 59 was injuries. The 19-year-old male driver of the car, from divided to the junction of Highway 210, the RM the Steinbach area, was transported to Winnipeg of Ritchot requested MIT to turn the intersection hospital with serious injuries. Alcohol does not appear to be a factor in the collision. into a four way stop. Instead, the stop signs were removed from east to west, and reinstalled
Steinbach RCMP Respond to Head-on Collision
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
Niverville Woman Amid 25 Top Canadian Immigrants On March 20, a Niverville woman was named as one of 75 finalists in the seventh annual RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards. Vicki Olatundun, Executive Director of Steinbach Family Resource Centre was among the top 75 finalists chosen out of over 650 nominations. Now a resident of Niverville, Olatundun immigrated to Canada fifteen years ago, from the United Kingdom. Currently the Director of the Steinbach Family Resource Centre, Olatundun has been instrumental in achieving the first gym for the homeless in Manitoba in 2011 and the first dental implant program for the homeless in 2011. She has been the recipient of the Citation Award from the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists. Olatundun credits some of her drive to being a survivor of the 1983 Maitatsine Jihad in Kano, Nigeria, in which more than 4,000 members of her community were killed by machete. She works hard at overcoming the perception that the Steinbach Family Resource Centre is for not only families struggling in poverty as it once was, but also instead, it is now available to bring value to every family from the low income demographic to high net worth families. After the Steinbach Family Resource Centre outgrew the family resource building, Olatundun began the process of relocating the centre, with no funding. She worked tirelessly and encouraged the community to buy in and participate in donating services and finances. Within a year,
Vicki Olatundun from Niverville is in the running of being named one of the top 25 Immigrants in Canada.
Olatundun was able to purchase a half-million-dollar facility. Olatundun is not only persistent, but also passionate and purpose-driven. She is a change agent who works hard to empower and encourage families and was listed in Canadian Living Magazine in January 2015 as one of the top 40 women changemakers. “Each nominee has a unique story that helps define Canada. Their successes help build a country that is rich in diversity and a home where newcomers thrive,” said Christine Shisler, Director, Multicultural Markets, RBC. To be selected among the top 25 Immigations of Canada, residents can vote for Olatundun online at canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25 until May 11, 2015. Winners will be announced on June 23.
meeting, the company brought forward a plan to build a brand new feed mill just north of Highway 52, two miles east of the Highway 59. Denis Vielfaure of HyLife told council that, due to growth, there is not enough milling capacity to maintain their current facilities. “We need to reinvest into milling capacity as there is not enough,” Vielfaure stated. “We are hoping to have a shovel in the ground by May 1.” The location was chosen based on Hylife has received the green light the site being a central location for from the municipality to build a new farmers and for incoming grain. feed mill in the RM of Hanover. Vielfaure told council they plan on At a recent RM of Hanover building a mill and warehouse that
Hylife to Build Feed Mill in Hanover
will be approximately 12,800 square feet. Operations are expected to run 24 hours a day, 5 days a week. The mill is expected to produce 250,000 tonnes of feed pellets a year. It is also expected to provide employment for 42 people. The RM of Hanover approved the project, believing it would be a great opportunity for employment plus it is expected to generate about $70,000 per year in tax revenue. The municipality will have to upgrade municipal road 43E to accommodate heavy truck traffic. Hylife expects the new mill to be in operation by September 2016.
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More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
To Gaze Upon the Beauty of the Lord Psalm 27:4-6... 4) One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek, that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. 5) For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. 6) Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent, I will sacrifice with shouts of joy I will sing and make music to the Lord. (NIV) All of us are seekers. Within all of us, there are those things we desire. We all have goals; we all have dreams. And we are all hopeful that those dreams may one day come true. However, there is nothing wrong asking ourselves whether the things which we seek are worth seeking? Some of those things we seek may not be in the Lord’s will for us. Some of those things may even hurt us were we to acquire them. We must carefully evaluate what we seek in light of the worth of that passion. We must also ask ourselves the question of why we seek those things. The fact is that all of us are involved in the living of life. But in the process, we find the challenges of life do not always go smoothly. The road of life has many a bump, many a pothole. As we weave our way around the bumps and bruises, we find that some things, which we thought were important no longer, seem important. We come to understand that there is more to life than meets the eye. I believe it is fair to say that we all have some struggles and maybe even problems. Everywhere people are hurting and are in need. And what the world holds forth to meet those needs are only shallow substitutes of the real thing. It is the real things, which we are to seek. That should be our priority in this day. We must seek a Christian life style that honors both God and everyday people. Who would have thought that King David was a man beset with the affairs of life? He had enjoyed some measure of success in his life, yet that success was not without its problems. Not only did David have personal problems, he also had community problems. On more than one occasion, there were people who were set against him, seeking to take his life. David knew what it was to struggle with the serious issues of life. But David also knew what it was important to seek and in this passage of Scripture, we see revealed for us life’s most important priority. We see here that one thing above all others after which we are to seek. In John 15, Jesus emphasized over and over again the need for the believer to abide in Him. There is nothing sweeter than communion with Jesus Christ. As we see Him in prayer, through the reading of His Word, and through our daily walk with Him by faith, there comes a very real inner strength. It is an inner assurance that He loves us and that He is there for us. We come to understand the reality of His promise, that He would never leave us or forsake us. We come to know Him as our friend. There, really is nothing sweeter than a spiritual union with our Lord. David said his goal was to seek the Lord. To gaze on the beauty of the Lord! David desired to enjoy the presence of God. He understood the value of taking time to enjoy his relationship with God. Many Christians are in such a hurry that we do not take to the time to enjoy the trip. What a waste it is when we reduce following the Lord to merely the fulfillment of certain duties. Following Jesus cannot and should not be reduced merely to Christian principles. Following Jesus is more than attending church, doing church work, giving our money, studying our Sunday School Lesson, and doing good works in the name of Christ. Those things ought to be done because of the joy we feel as we enjoy our relationship with Jesus Christ. We do good works and fulfill our responsibilities because we love the Lord. Unless we serve Christ out of this motivation, our service will soon become too heavy a burden for us the bear. 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 heart’s desire. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will honour Your Name.” Amen.
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
Decisions Made By Your Heart or Mind How can you explain how a so-called Christian can act in such a nonChristian manner that is totally out of character for him or her? This is a question that has plagued Christians for centuries and many good answers have been suggested. I will attempt to add the little insight I have gleaned over the years. The first and most important thing to realize about life (Christian or otherwise), is that God has given each of us a free will. God will never take your free will from you. That means, for every decision in life, there are choices that we make and consequences. When the Bible says God is not willing that anyone perish and go to hell, we now know God desires everyone go to Heaven. But every person has a free will to respond positively or negatively to God’s calling on their life. Before we exercise our free will and make a decision, we usually gather information about the topic and consider the pros and cons. Then we make our decision based on what we think is the best way to go. Our thoughts are influenced inside us by our mind and/or our heart. Let’s look at a Bible example of a decision that was made by King David. God said in Acts 13:22 that David was, “A man after mine own heart.” But in II Samuel, 11 David is walking on the roof of his house and he looks over and sees Bathsheba bathing on a roof top close by. Now David has a decision to make. God, in his heart, tells him to get out of there, but in his mind he has all kinds of opposite thoughts influenced by his flesh. David chooses to follow his mind, ignores the prompting of God in his heart and ends up committing adultery with another man’s wife. David made a decision that was out of character for him. Normally he followed the prompting of God from his heart, but this time he let his mind and flesh influence his decision. I don’t think most of us, as Christians, realize how easily we can be influenced to make a wrong decision, even though our heart may be for God. When a Christian makes a wrong decision, how can you tell whether this was just an isolated bad choice and his heart is still for God or is this person walking away from God with no further interest in the things of God? I think the deciding factor is the person’s reaction when faced with their wrongdoing. If the person becomes defensive and justifies their actions, then they probably don’t have a heart for God or the things of God. But, if they are sorry for their actions and show a genuine attitude of repentance, then their wrong decision was probably just a temporary lapse of good judgment and they still have a heart for God. King David when faced with his wrongdoing, acknowledged and confessed it before God, and went on serving God with a heart after God. I John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he [God] is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” I am beginning to see that God is much more understanding and forgiving than most Christians are. He understands our weaknesses. This doesn’t give us a license or a right to make wrong decisions and there are consequences for wrong actions, but God is willing to overlook a lot of our foolishness, if our hearts are truly seeking Him. What is your heart seeking for today?
Camp to Support Youth Dealing with Grief Southern Health is joining with Prairie Mountain Health to organize the tenth annual Camp Bridges weekend, for bereaved children and teens. This year’s Camp Bridges will be held at the Camp Wannakumbac at Clear Lake from Friday, May 29 – Sunday, May 31. The goal of Camp Bridges is to support children and teens with their grief and bereavement through activities designed to help share grief and honour memories in a caring community environment. The Camp will provide a safe, supportive and fun environment where grieving children and teens learn that they are not alone in their grief and are free to share their thoughts and feelings with peers who are going through a similar experience. This camp is intended to complement existing bereavement services for children and teens by providing a weekend of “caring and sharing”. Donations are being accepted to cover the cost of camp rental, meals, and activities, so that campers may attend at no cost. Anyone wishing to donate to Camp Bridges or obtain a Camp application may contact their regional Palliative Care representative. Deadline for applications is Friday, April 24. Camp Bridges 2014 was held at Pembina Valley Bible Camp hosting 50 children and teens between the ages of 7 and 17.
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Brides Invited to First Ever Wedding Experience By Marianne Curtis The wedding season is almost upon us and brides-to-be are invited to experience their wedding at a unique trade show. On April 18, the TransCanada Centre in Ile des Chenes will be transformed into a wedding chapel, banquet room and dance hall. Instead of visiting various tables at a traditional trade show, the first ever Wedding Experience promises new brides a look inside an actual wedding. “I don’t think there has ever been a show like this anywhere in Manitoba,” stated organizer Yvette Bernat. “The entire wedding will feel like you are at an actual wedding.” There will be no booths like most shows have; instead, there will be only one vendor from each detail that brides would require. At centre stage, vendors will have an opportunity to highlight their skills while brides will be treated to wine and hors d’oeuvres throughout the show. “Our team of Exhibitors will A sneak peek of how Little Flower Shop showcase the most sought after from Niverville will be transforming the products and services so that you can Trans-Canada Centre in Ile des Chenes really see, touch, hear and taste their during the first ever Wedding Experience in work,” stated organizer Yvette Bernat, Manitoba. Facilities Manager. “Our aim is to give brides and grooms the convenience of having face to face contact with professional industry vendors as you make specific wedding decisions.” Bernat said the event is expected to also provide a means of promoting the Trans-Canada Centre as a suitable location for weddings, socials and other events. “The whole concept will be showcasing what the hall can look like at a wedding. We want to showcase the TransCanada Centre as a place for people to book weddings, socials and other activities,” Bernat explained. “We have this beautiful building that has so many possibilities, but it is the most underused facility in the municipality. We need to change that perception.” Vendors include Little Flower Shop, Urban Prairie Cuisine, Summer Bounce Entertainment, Have a Seat Linens and Decor, Event Light, Jeremy Dueck Photography, Moving Pictures Studeo, Salon 421, Couture Love, Pelee Island Winery, HM Events, Turning Points, and Kiss the Girl Boudoir Photography. The Wedding Experience 2015 is taking place April 18 from 10 am - 3 pm at the TransCanada Centre, 1 Rivard Street in Ile des Chenes. The first 100 brides/ couples to register at weddingexperience@transcanadacentre.com will receive a swag bag full of gifts. Tickets are $5 at the door.
Steinbach Farmer’s Market Expands By Marianne Curtis For the first time since it started, local vendors and shoppers will have an extra day to participate in the largest farmers market in the region. According to Judy Swain, organizer of the Steinbach Farmer’s Market, they are expanding the market by adding an additional day to the already popular weekly gathering. Historically, the market has taken place on the Clearspring Centre parking lot, Thursday evenings 3 - 7 pm. In addition the market will also be open from 9 am -12 pm on Saturday. “We are expanding our market to include Saturdays to give people more of an opportunity sell both their items and bring more people in,” Swain explained. “We have had to refuse potential vendors because we did not have room and we hate declining growers who want to participate in the market due to space and this is a great way to broaden it.” Swain said the market has twenty-five committed full time participants, and an additional dozen who attend regularly. “You have to be involved with the production of your items,” Swain continued. “If you have grown it or made it you can come and participate in our farmers market.” For the cost of $10, and an additional fee of $15 per table, participants can sell anything they make, bake or grow. To sign up for the season or obtain more information, contact Judy at 204-388-4978 or Dorothy at 204-3266222. The newly added Saturday date coincides with a second farmers market that has been developed in the community. For the second year in a row, the Steinbach Community Market will take place Saturdays at the Stoney Brook Mall from 10 am until 2 pm. Swain is confident that with the number of participants, there should be no conflict between both markets running at the same time, in separate locations. Over the summer months, Farmer’s Markets are also set up in Lorette (Wednesday 4 -7:30 pm), Vita (Fridays 2:30 – 6:30 pm) and St. Malo on Saturdays (10 am – 1:30 pm).
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April 2015
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Municipal Board Tells Tache to Put Brakes on Landmark Development By Marianne Curtis The Municipal Board of Manitoba has “encouraged” the RM of Tache to restrict any further development within Landmark until the community’s water system upgrades are in place. This statement was made when the municipal board was called in after getting objections to a proposal to rezone the corner of Second Avenue North and First Street West in Landmark so that the owners could construct a pair of duplexes. The LUD of Landmark recommended that the municipality approve the project with a zoning agreement, and that the parcel could not be developed until the town’s water system was approved. At the municipal board hearing Dan Poersch spoke on behalf of the RM of Tache. He told the board that the water system upgrade is estimated at $10.3 million. The project would proceed at at the expense of residents through a borrowing bylaw with the balance from federal and provincial infrastructure programs. The municipality has applied for funding since 2007 but been denied, he added. Poersch also told the board that a force main sewer upgrade took place in December 2014, and there were no immediate plans for further upgrades despite complaints from area residents. The board also noted several concerns from area residents, including the town’s sewer is mixed and any upgrades to the water system would have to be included. The residents also advised the board that during the summer months, they’ve been told to conserve water and have been unable to take showers during certain parts of the day. In the municipal board’s ruling, the board found that “all parties acknowledge there is are existing deficiencies with the water system.” “The Water system has been at or near capacity since approximately 2008 and the municipality admits it has approved other developments since that time, resulting in further stress to the system,” says the order. Landmark has struggled to maintain an adequate water supply and sewer system throughout the community for a number of years. During summer months, residents have even been asked to conserve water and restrict shower use due to water insufficiencies. Inadequate pump houses and water lines have motivated the LUD of Landmark and the RM of Tache to push the province to approve and cost-share a water system upgrade for the town. However, despite the inadequacies of the system, development continued including a 24 unit housing complex along Main Street in 2013, and the approval of a 100 lot subdivision on the east side of town. The municipal board says that until the water system is upgraded, both the owners and the municipality’s hands were tied and any changes to the zoning of this particular property was premature.
Fundraising Underway to Build No Kill Shelter “As the area grows and the population of new young families grows, so does the pet population.”
By Marianne Curtis The need to construct a no-kill animal shelter in southern Manitoba is no laughing matter, but an upcoming fundraiser is expected to keep the audience in stitches. On April 11, comedian Matt Falk, Magician Chris Funk and Musician Cornie Rempel will perform live at the Pat Porter Centre in Steinbach in support of the Build a Roof campaign. Barry Piasta, founder of dogadoptionmb.com has been busy organizing the upcoming Build a Roof Variety Show. Money raised during the fundraiser will go to help the Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue raise funds to build a no Kill Shelter that would service all the community’s in southeastern Manitoba. “As the area grows and the population of new young families grows, so does the pet population,” stated Piasta. With this growth comes new challenges for the area, including animal control, lost and found pets, animal abandonment, care and control questions, along with spay and neuter programs, he added. “Pet education would be a cornerstone of what the shelter would be,” he continued. It would also be a safe location for lost or found pets to be reunited with their families, and an adoption centre for abandoned or unwanted pets. “Currently it can be difficult to locate your lost or missing pet because in the many municipalities there are different animal control officers. A pet can go a considerable distance when lost or scared it’s hard to know where to begin,” Piasta explained. “This shelter could be a central drop off point or even a centre registration point for all ACOs to register pets they have found, which would make it easier for pets to be reunited with families.” The Build a Roof fundraiser takes place April 11, in Steinbach at the Pat Porter Centre. Tickets are $20 and available at several businesses and at the door. There will be a pizza bar, and numerous displays from local business and pet supply stores, including Dancing Dog Treats and Dogs Needs a Home. The event is being cohosted by Rocco’s Pizza, Steinbach Pet Valu, Graydon Vet Services, Baldwin Food, Waldenway Canine and Kitty Camp.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Tache Home Wins Award The owners of a home east of Deacon’s Corner in the RM of Tache are the proud winners of this year’s Robert Adrian Memorial Shield for Best Country Non-Farm Home Grounds, District 2 award. On March 16, Bud and Dennis Brandt were presented with the prestigious award at the 105th annual Manitoba Good Roads Association Conference. The award was given out during the annual conference awards banquet that was held this year in the Delta Hotel in Winnipeg. The Brandt yard was nominated by RM of Tache Councillor Bill Heather.
RM of Tache residents Bud and Dennis Brandt received the Robert Adrian Memorial Shield for Best Country Non-Farm Home Grounds.
Part of the award winning property.
La Broquerie Erects Signs Visitors to the RM of La Broquerie may have noticed two new welcome signs as they enter the municipality. According to RM of La Broquerie Reeve Lewis Weiss, the RM of La Broquerie council has agreed to put up two more. One will be located along Highway 52, east of La Broquerie, and the second will be on the north end of Principale Street coming from the RM of Ste. Anne.
This sign is located just outside of Marchand, at the RM of Reynolds boundary.
The new signs are estimated to cost about $20,000, however this could change depending on the physical size ordered, Weiss added.
Concert Series to Benefit from Federal Funding The Steinbach Arts Council will receive $24,000 in federal funding over the next two years for its annual concert series. The funding of $12,000 per year is for 2015–2016 and 2016–2017 Concert Show Series is being provided through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. The annual Concert Show Series takes place from Provencher MP Ted Falk presented the Steinbach September to May and Arts Council with the first instalment of a two year includes a variety of live financial commitment in support of the Concert Show performances that span Series. classical, folk and world music; theatre; comedy; literature and interdisciplinary performances. Cindi Rempel Patrick, Chief Creative Officer, Steinbach Arts Council said the funding will enhances the community’s quality of life through these creative experiences. “We are thrilled to receive this support, as it enables us to provide professional artist programming for our entire Southeast region,” stated Rempel Patrick. “It allows us to encourage new audiences by presenting diverse and unique arts entertainment from across the nation, hosting them on our local stage.” As part of the series, the Steinbach Arts Council also presents a variety of activities to attract youth and enhance audience appreciation, such as workshops where participants observe a rehearsal and take part in postshow artist talks, public discussions, round-table presentations and lectures.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
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April 2015
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Common mistakes made on home renovation projects Home improvement projects can turn a house into a home. Homeowners plan scores of renovations to transform living spaces into rooms that reflect their personal tastes and comforts. Homeowners going it alone may find things do not always go as planned. In fact, a Harris Interactive study found that 85 percent of homeowners say remodeling is a more stressful undertaking than buying a home. But homeowners about to embark on home improvement projects can make the process go more smoothly by avoiding these common pitfalls. Failing to understand the scope of the project Some homeowners don’t realize just how big a commitment they have made until they get their hands dirty. But understanding the scope of the project, including how much demolition and reconstruction is involved and how much time a project will take can help homeowners avoid some of the stress that comes with renovation projects. For example, a bathroom renovation may require the removal of drywall, reinforcement of flooring to accommodate a new bathtub or shower enclosure and the installation of new plumbing and wiring behind walls. So such a renovation is far more detailed than simply replacing faucets. Not establishing a budget Homeowners must develop a project budget to ensure their projects do not drain their finances. If your budget is so inflexible that you can’t afford the materials you prefer, you may want to postpone the project and save more money so you can eventually afford to do it right. Without a budget in place, it is easy to overspend, and that can put you in financial peril down the line. Worrying about coming up with money to pay for materials and labor also can induce stress. Avoid the anxiety by setting a firm budget. Making trendy or overpersonal improvements Homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for the long run have more free reign when it comes to renovating their homes. Such homeowners can create a billiards room or paint a room hot pink if they so prefer. However, if the goal is to make improvements in order to sell a property, overly personal touches may make a property less appealing to prospective buyers. Trends come and go, and improvements can be expensive. If your ultimate goal is to sell your home, opt for renovations that will look beautiful through the ages and avoid bold choices that may only appeal to a select few buyers. Forgetting to properly vet all workers It is important to vet your contractor, but don’t forget to vet potential subcontractors as well. Failing to do so can prove a costly mistake. Contractors often look to subcontractors to perform certain parts of a job, and it is the responsibility of homeowners to vet these workers. Expecting everything to go as planned Optimism is great, but you also should be a realist. Knowing what potentially could go wrong puts you in a better position to handle any problems should they arise. The project might go off without a hitch, but plan for a few hiccups along the way. Overestimating DIY abilities Overzealous homeowners may see a renovation project in a magazine or on television and immediately think they can do the work themselves. Unless you have the tools and the skills necessary to do the work, tackling too much can be problematic. In the long run, leaving the work to a professional may save you money. Home improvements can be stressful, but homeowners can lessen that stress by avoiding common renovation mistakes.
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April 2015
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Tips for homeowners on their first renovation projects Home renovations are typically exciting, as homeowners get to see the visions of their dream homes come to light right before their very eyes. Turning an outdated bathroom into a modern oasis or an empty basement into the ultimate man cave strengthens the sense of attachment homeowners have with their homes. But few home renovation projects go from start to finish without experiencing a few bumps in the road along the way. Such bumps can be difficult to handle for homeowners working on their first renovation projects, but there are many ways for novices to navigate the sometimes murky waters of home improvement projects and come out relatively unscathed on the other end, where a newly renovated home awaits. - Plan well and know what to expect. When working with contractors, get all agreements in writing and spell out exactly what you desire in a home renovation. Photo references can help guide contractors and architects. Ask for the full picture of what can be expected with the work, from demolition to the punch list. Knowing what lies ahead can keep you grounded throughout the project. - Discuss work each day and set payment schedules. Make payments contingent on work completed. This can help keep contractors on schedule. Paying for all work upfront leaves homeowners at a disadvantage, as it does not provide incentive for workers to be timely and efficient. Check in with workers to get daily progress reports. - Have reasonable expectations. A renovation project may exceed its budget and take longer than initially expected. Understanding that these potential setbacks might be part of the process will make it easier to handle them when the foreman speaks to you about any issues that arise. - Accept the mess. Construction work is messy. There’s no way to maintain a pristine house when contractors are entering and exiting all day. Dust is bound to be generated, and tools can fill up rooms. A home in disarray can be stressful, but continue to visualize the end result and the mess won’t bother you so much. - Establish a contingency plan. Bathrooms and kitchen renovations are typically the most disruptive home improvement projects. Going without a kitchen can make it difficult to enjoy meals at home, while a bathroom remodel may require you to navigate water shutoffs. If your project is scheduled to take several months, establish a contingency plan to deal with the consequences of your renovation project. Speak with family members about using some of their home amenities, and prepare and freeze meals in advance so you can reheat them later on when you don’t have access to your stove. - Plan your escape. Sometimes the constant work and mess of construction is too much to bear. Afford yourself time away by visiting relatives or staying at a hotel. Even a single night away can provide the relief you need. A home that is undergoing a remodel can be a less than comfortable environment. But homeowners who have never before lived through a renovation project can take several steps to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
April 2015
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Pruning trees a job best left to the pros Bountiful, healthy trees can be beautiful to behold and important contributors to a thriving environment. According to American Forests, a nonprofit conservation organization, a tree can absorb as much as 40 pounds of carbon dioxide per year and can sequester one ton of carbon dioxide by the time the tree reaches age 40. Many homeowners are content to leave healthy trees alone. However, trees eventually must be pruned or removed if they become safety risks or pose other threats. Trees with roots that are damaging home foundations or those with limbs overhanging property limits or power lines can be troublesome. Although homeowners can handle relatively minor tree maintenance, for a variety of reasons, many tree projects are best left to the professionals. Avoid injury Professional tree contractors recognize and understand the hazards associated with tree and limb removal. Many operate in accordance with national or local guidelines to maintain proper clearance of power lines and structures. Trimming trees close to electrical lines puts a person at risk of being electrocuted. Professionals know how to protect themselves and prevent power outages, which can result when limbs come into contact with power lines. Professional tree services will use machinery appropriate for the task. Cherrypickers and cranes may lift workers to the correct height to work on trees, while do-it-yourselfers who rely on climbing trees or using ladders are at risk of injury. Prevent damage to the tree Many tree services understand the proper way to prune trees to minimize stress and damage to the tree itself. Novice pruners may inadvertently do more harm than good, resulting in proliferation of tree disease or shock. Improper pruning technique also can lead to an unsightly tree. Liability A professional tree service will possess the correct liability and worker’s compensation insurance. This protects homeowners against litigation should someone be injured while tree work is being done. Homeowners who damage neighboring properties when cutting down a tree may find that they are not covered by their homeowner’s insurance policies. This can be a costly mistake that’s easily avoided by simply hiring a fully insured tree removal service. The right tools The right tools can mean the difference between a job done correctly and one that results in disaster. Professional arborists and tree services have acquired the training, tools and techniques to perform the job safely. This includes using the right tools to tackle the job. Ropes, pulleys, cranes, stump grinders, and other heavy machinery are just a few of the tools tree services have at their disposal that the average homeowner does not. Trimming or removing trees can be an unpredictable and potentially dangerous endeavor. Such work is best left to professionals.
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April 2015
Community Gathers for Delayed Winter Festival in Richer
Dawson Trail Dispatch
“We are very excited about this new adventure and look forward to serving this beautiful community for years to come.”
Grand Opening Celebrated in St. Pierre By Marianne Curtis
The little ones learned how to curl during the one-day festival.
On March 8, the community of Richer came out to participate in the 6th annual Winterfest, which was hosted by the Richer Community Club (RCC) and Richer Daycare. Organizers say that over 200 hotdogs were given away during the annual event. “This just speaks to the number of people who attended,” stated Pat Stolwyk on behalf of the RCC. “We are thankful for the beautiful weather which helped draw out a huge crowd.” There were many games to play including a bale coin scramble, curling, snowman making contest, freeze dance as well as face painting, sleigh rides, free hot dogs and refreshments, and special guests Olaf, a Minion, and Elsa. The Richer Daycare held a raffle basket draw and sold cake pops. “The afternoon was so busy we forgot about the marshmallows to roast on the fire. Sorry, we’ll try again next year,” added Stolwyk. “Thank you to all the volunteers who put in their time to help out with the event, all the parents who pitched in when a hand was needed, those who helped set up and clean up, and everyone who donated to the event.” Plans are already in the works for next year’s Winterfest.
RCMP Investigate Child’s Homicide on Roseau River First Nation On March 1 at around 1 pm, the Dakota Ojibway Police Service responded to a report of a possibly deceased person in the school field of Ginew School in Roseau River First Nation. Initially, the deceased was thought to be an adult male, however it was later confirmed to be a 14-year-old Hyde Hayden, from Roseau River First Nation. An autopsy was conducted in Winnipeg on March 2 however; the cause of death has not being released at this time although there is speculation the boy was beaten. The death is being treated as a homicide. The RCMP “D” Division Serious Crime Unit and the RCMP Winnipeg Major Crime Unit are assisting the Dakota Ojibway Police Service in the investigation. No arrests have been made at this time. If you have any information regarding this crime, please contact the Dakota Ojibway Police Service Roseau River Detachment at 204-427-3034 or Crimestoppers.
Landmark Athlete Named Tri-Star A grade 12 student from Landmark Collegiate has been named as the most recent Urban Athlete of the Week from southern Manitoba. On March 3, the Manitoba High School Athletic Association announced that Braeden Richard of the Landmark 96ers basketball team was the Tire Recycle Rural High School Urban Athlete of the Week. The 6’1” forward was recognised after he led the Landmark 96ers to first place in the Zone 13 AA competition. He led the team in scoring with 15 points per game and in field goal percentage with 57%. He also helped the 96ers to a championship victory in their home tournament, averaging 13 points, 14 rebounds, five steals and four blocks per game over the weekend. According to Coach Tim Rogalsky, Braeden is the kind of player who asks his coach, “What can I do to crack the starting lineup?” and then does it. “He plays with tremendous intelligence, always in the right place at the right time. His work ethic,
dedication, and consistency quietly set the tone for the whole team,” Rogolsky praised. “So quietly that he can go almost unnoticed on the court, and then he’ll ignite the crowd with a spectacular chase-down block.” Richard maintains an 80% average, while also participating in volleyball, baseball and soccer.
Braeden Richard
On March 14, the new owners of the St. Pierre Bigway invited the community to come out and celebrate their official grand opening with a ribbon cutting while raising funds for the local daycare centre. Luc and Corinne Peloquin and Derek and Carolle Chubey officially took over the business June 1, 2014 but due to a life threatening family emergency in the Luc and Corinne Peloquin and Carolle Chubey cut the cake as part of the grand Chubey family, a grand opening opening ceremonies that took place March 14. celebration was delayed until now. “We, as owners, are so happy with the support we received from our customers... even if the event was a little late… but as we all say it’s better late than never,” stated Derek. “So many people came out and got to sample a variety of wines, paired with wonderful samples of food.” The highlight of the weekend was Saturday when the day kicked off with St. Pierre Mayor Mona Fallis cutting the ribbon, followed by a BBQ which raised $500 for the local daycare. “The kids were so happy leaving with their faces painted and balloons,” Derek continued. “We surpassed our goal of $250! How exciting is that.” In the past nine months, the new owners have been busy adding new items, including a florist, and expanding on their spirits and wine section. “We would also like to mention that we now have a florist on site for all special occasions not only fresh flowers,” Derek added. “We also moved the liquor store into the new addition to have a better display of the products that we offer.” Derek added that his wife and other partners are looking forward to serving and supporting the community. “As owners, we are learning new things about this business every day,” said Derek. “We are very excited about this new adventure and look forward to serving this beautiful community for years to come.”
Spring Storm Causes Multi Collisions By Marianne Curtis On March 25, emergency crews were kept busy when an early spring blast of cold weather wreaked havoc on a number of southern Manitoba roads. RM of Ritchot fire crews responded to several motor vehicle accidents, including a bus rollover, just north of St. Adolphe. The school bus rolled on its side between the north and southbound lanes on Highway 75 south of St. Adolphe near the Glenlea Research Centre, which closed that highway. One person was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while all the other passengers were treated at the scene. All of the passengers were adults being transported to work for the day. Shortly afterwards emergency crews were dispatched to a jackknifed semi, near St. Agathe. The Department of Highways closed the highway after the second incident.
A school bus rollover on Highway 75 between St. Adolphe and St. Agathe sent one person to hospital with minor injuries. It landed on its side between the north and south lanes.
A local livestock hauler was involved in a third collision in Headlingly when the trailer he was pulling was t-boned by another semi-tractor-trailer. No livestock or humans were injured in the collision. Roads were bad across the southern half of the province after a
storm brought snow overnight. The problems were not just contained to the road. Manitoba reported numerous power outages across the province as wet snow combined with strong winds caused temporary blackouts. Classes were cancelled in St. Pierre-Jolys and Vita.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
Lorette Rallies Around Teen Derek and Heather Kolowca’s only child, 14-year old Delaney recently underwent radical surgery to her back to help correct progressive congenital scoliosis that was causing a great deal of pain and loss of mobility. Unfortunately, Delaney is now paralyzed from the upper/mid-chest down. Kolowca now faces many challenges, as she must learn to balance in a sitting position, maneuver her body using only her arms and learn how to manage her own care. According to family and friends, she possesses an indomitable and optimistic spirit and uses her time at the hospital committing to hours of physiotherapy every day, and to volunteering at the hospital library. She is a grade 9 student at St. Boniface Diocesan High School also working daily to complete credits in English, Computers and Mathematics. Delaney Kolowca falls into a very
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Local Business Recognized As One of Canada’s Best “From the time of sale, to even 15 months after, a survey showed Crikside kept rating 95 percent or better.”
Delaney Kolowca and her parents with Fr. Charles Fillion at Delaney’s confirmation on May 13, 2014.
small category of children who sustain life-changing injuries and are only eligible to receive minimal funding support. Most other children who experience this type of loss receive the basic support that is already offered along with support from other sources such as MPI, First Nations Health or other funding sources. The Lorette family is facing many financial hurdles far into the future. They are adamant about remaining in their adopted community of Lorette. Any other funding that this family receives will assist in offsetting the costs of home modifications to provide access and in purchasing a wheelchair van. A Kolowca Family Trust has been established at the Caisse Populaire in Lorette for donations. In addition, the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Women’s League of Lorette will be hosting a benefit social for the Kolowca family on Friday, May 1, at the Lorette Parish Hall. Silent auction prizes are gratefully accepted and tickets are available at $15 each. For further information, contact Suzanne Moore 204878-3137.
Providence Pilots Biofuels Heating
Bruce Duggan checks out the biomass heating system that currently heats 80 percent of Province College.
For the past five years, Providence College in Otterburne has been testing cattails as a biofuel and using the product to heat its campus. The success of the program has caught the eye of a Winnipeg researcher who believes this method could be used to help Lake Winnipeg. Richard Grosshans, senior researcher with International Institute for Sustainable Development says they are creating a new market for something that is otherwise mowed over and forgotten about - cattails. “We are creating a market for something that is otherwise left in the ditches or mowed over,” says Grosshans. “Ground up cattails offer a new source of renewable energy.” According to Bruce Duggan with Providence College using cattails for heating on campus is successful. Currently about 80 percent of the campus is heated using biomass. “About five years ago, we decided that we wanted to take the next big step in being a sustainable campus,” explained Duggan. The system allowed classes to continue last winter, when the rest of the area was shut down after a nearby gas-line explosion. “We would have had to shut down for two to three weeks last year if we did not have this system,” Duggan continued.
April 2015
Heating with cattails can also help clean up Lake Winnipeg. Planting cattails, which naturally absorb phosphorus could help save the lake. “The cattails absorb the phosphorus, and we could harvest it and remove it from the environment,” Grosshans added. The timing of turning cattails into fuel is prevalent. In 2017 it will become illegal in Manitoba to use coal as a heat source.
Niverville Hosts Recreation Think Tank Niverville gathered to participate in a think tank to discuss how to move forward with the development of recreational facilities in the community. A committee has been working together with the town council to plan and execute recreational facilities for the community and according to spokesperson Libby Hanna, the plan to date envisions a field house and an arena on the present arena grounds. The committee issued a call to all possible user groups to determine multiple uses for a new arena, what type of facility would be more useful and what is needed to move ahead. The decision to hold the think tank for future recreation was the result of the consensus for a community splash park instead of an outdoor pool. “There were over thirty people present and about fifteen to twenty groups were represented,” stated Councillor John Funk. The group went over feasibility studies from communities with similar recreational plans. Funk added that it was too soon to speculate on project costs, but other communities have spent anywhere from $2 to $5 million. The recreational facilities would be funded through fundraising efforts and government grants.
Pat Vincent presents the 2015 Circle of Excellence – Diamond Level to Bob Brandt (left) and his son Rob (right).
Local entrepreneur Bob Brandt is not one to sit back and cruise along. Together with his wife Linda, son Rob, daughter-in-law Jen and a well groomed team of employees, they have set the bar high for Crikside Enterprises and have been awarded only one of four Diamond Level 2015 Circle of Excellence Awards given to Arctic Cat dealers from Ontario to Alberta. According to Pat Vincent, District Manager of Arctic Cat, Crikside consistently was rating above 95 percent on knowledge of product and customer service following a survey of their customers. “It was all about customer satisfaction,” explained Vincent. “From the time of sale, to even 15 months after, a survey showed Crikside kept rating 95 percent or better.” “He is looking after the customers, they are always coming first,” said Vincent. “If a customer likes you and trusts you, they’ll buy from you. You’ll be hard pressed to find anyone else at their level.” Vincent believes that it is Bob’s character and attitude that has helped build the business to one of the top in retail sales. “Bob is a guy who literally started out as a backyard dealer and quickly grew to a full fledged dealership,” said Vincent. “There is something to be said about that.”
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April 2015
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch