Dawson Trail Dispatch August 2016

Club Jovial Destroyed By Fire

A 10-year-old boy from Winnipeg was shot in the leg during a walk in Middlebro.

On July 21, Robert Desjardins was shot shortly after 7 pm as he walked with a cousin on a trail near Middlebro, Manitoba, about 155 kilometres southeast of Winnipeg, said his mom, Jessica Desjardins.

According to Desjardins, the family was visiting relatives in the small town when the incident happened.

“They saw … a black truck … saw the door open, heard a pop and that was it,” she said. “Robert felt like he had been hit by a rock.”

The two were on a trail leading to Road 2 N. in the RM of Piney when they heard a shot and the boy felt pain in his left leg, RCMP confirmed.

He was taken to Bethesda Hospital, and then transferred to Children’s Hospital at Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg where he had surgery.

RCMP went to the hospital to gather evidence and examine what they referred to as a “bullet/pellet”, which is still in Robert’s leg, his mom said. “They don’t really want to remove it right now because they say that going in and digging around for all the pieces could just cause more damage,” Desjardins said. “They’re monitoring things right now, to see if there’s any kind of infection.”

Investigators are following up on leads based on the information Robert and his cousin provided, RCMP said.

No arrest had been made as of Sunday evening.

The shot missed the bone and there’s no nerve damage, so it could have been worse, Desjardins said.

A midnight fire at the start of the August long weekend destroyed Ste. Anne’s Club Jovial.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

The community of Ste. Anne was left reeling after the sudden loss of the most popular meeting place to a middle of the night fire. Around midnight, July 30, Ste. Anne Fire Department was called to the Club Jovial after a passerby spotted flames coming from the roof.

“At 11:40 I was driving through Ste. Anne and I noticed smoke coming from the roof of club Jovial,” said Pat MacPherson. “I called 911 and before the fire department was able to get to the location the flames started coming up through the roof, within 30 minutes the entire roof was engulfed.”

Fire crews managed to keep the fire under control, and from spreading to area businesses. It took two hours for them to battle the blaze.

Ste. Anne fire Chief John Desrochers confirmed that fire crews were able to contain and extinguish the fire.

10-Year-Old Shot While Walking in Middlebro

ATV Rollover Near Ste Anne Pat McPherson called 911 after she spotted smoke coming from the Club Jovial.

Photo courtesy of In Seine Newsletter

“As crews arrived there was fire penetrating out of the roof and the attic was essentially fully engulfed at that time,” Desrochers told media. “The guys took a defensive attack and extinguished it from the exterior. The building will probably be a total loss.”

Desrochers said there was no one in the building at the time of the fire and it isn’t considered suspicious.

At 9:44 pm on July 5 Steinbach RCMP along with EMS and Fire Department responded to a single ATV accident on PR 207 approx 1 mile west, of Ste Anne.

Investigation revealed that the ATV rolled and landed on the 31-year-old male driver’s head, sustaining serious head injuries and was transported via STARS to Winnipeg Hospital.

The driver was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident and alcohol was not a factor.

2

August 2016

Steinbach’s First Pride March Draws Thousands

By Marianne Curtis It was a historical day when supporters lined the streets for miles as thousands converged on Steinbach when the first Pride March took to the streets in the name of love, equality and human rights. They came for miles, from other local communities, municipalities, cities and even other provinces; one group of educators came all the way from Florida, to show their support towards local LGBTQ2 residents.

On July 9, members of the LGBTQ2 community and their supporters took to the Steinbach streets when the first Gay Pride March took place in the community. The event caused controversy in the conservative community with sides clearly being

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities! drawn in the sand.

The event, organized by Michelle McHale, received both international support and condemnation since it was first announced back in May. McHale became a vocal advocate for LGBT equality in the area after she requested Hanover School Division to allow the discussion of same-sex families in the classroom after claiming her son was being bullied for having two moms.

A few weeks after the Orlando shooting, which was an alleged hate crime against the LGBTQ2 community, the significance of holding a march in the community changed.

The event became an opportunity to show love, support and tolerance within a strong conservative atmosphere. “We organized Pride Steinbach to counter the backlash.

We wanted to make sure the [LGBTQ2] community in Steinbach knew they were supported,” said McHale. “To me, Steinbach Pride is about acceptance and love. It’s about emancipation. It’s about letting leaders know it’s us you answer to.”

Chris Plett, a gay farmer from Kleefeld was one of the many voices heard that day, as the group flooded the streets around City Hall.

“The love and understanding we seek will take time,” said Plett. “But with patience, love, and forgiveness, things will come together.”

Police estimated that up to 5,000 people came to the community of about 13,500 for the parade. The march was followed by speeches, education sessions and an evening celebration in nearby La Broquerie.

The Steinbach Mayor and City Council released a written statement that they would not endorse the march. Local MP Ted Falk was also clear on where he stood on the matter. “I’ve been clear on this issue many times, and have made my position public on my values of faith, family, and community,” Falk said in a statement.

Steinbach Councillor Cari Penner was the only local politician who attended. “We all struggle, and we are supposed to be together as brothers and sisters,” said Penner, who says she did a lot of soul-searching and deep reading after someone close to her came out. “I came out of it, believing God’s message is that people must love and support one another.”

As a result of the parade, groups are being more open about meeting in the community. A group called “True Colours Social Group” has started meeting as a result of the march, to encourage like-minded individuals to come out, and have fun.

Casual meet and greets are being planned, starting August 3 at Lecoka Cafe House in Steinbach.

St. Labre 200 Racers Have Guts and Determination

By Marianne Curtis Historically, the St. Labre 200 is one of the hottest and dustiest events of the summer, but this year, sixteen teams battled it out in the muddiest race in the event’s eight year history.

On July 8 and 9, St. Labre was once again bustling with the sound of engines, grinders and welders as competitors prepared to go head to head in the St. Labre 200 for the coveted Spark Plug Cup. Mariette Kirouac, Event Marketing and Promotions was excited to see many familiar faces, along with new ones who came out to the annual event. This year was extra special because the family operated event was nominated for a Manitoba Tourism award.

“We are really proud of this event, it started out as a family competition and has turned into one of the biggest events in the area,” Kirouac stated. “It’s fun, good for the community, plus it gives us an opportunity to support other organizations.”

The annual St. Labre 200 is a gokart build off competition where teams are challenged to build their own go-karts within 24 hours.

Teams build go-karts from scratch on the first day with materials provided, and then race their new creations the next day in a fastpaced nail biting 200-lap race on a quarter mile dirt track. This year sixteen teams competed in the event.

After a little over three hours of racing in the most slippery and heavy mudded track the first place winners, was The EH-Team including members C-Willie Braun, Suzy Braun, Curt Dueck, Margarita Dueck, Ike Friesen, Mike Harder, Helen Harder, Jim Dueck and Esther Dueck.

In the past seven years, the St. Labre 200 has been able to give over $50,000 to different local organizations. Profits from the community supper, concessions,

It takes guts and determination to complete the entire 200 laps on this muddy and slippery course.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

merchandise, community supper, team auction, on site donation jar and in the past, a big raffle support the Give Back to the Community campaign.

This year’s funds are earmarked to help Alain Nadeau off the island in support of STARS. In September, Nadeau will be dropped on an island where he will have to raise money for STARS before being rescued.

The remaining funds will be given to Lil’ Steps Minitures from St. Malo, which offers a variety of programs designed to meet the various needs of children as Equine Facilitated Wellness is especially helpful for children with special needs.

An additional $492 was raised and 305 lbs of food collected in support of South East Helping Hands food bank.

Weapon Charges After Traffic Stop On July 16 at approximately 10:39 pm, Steinbach RCMP conducted a traffic stop on Lumber Avenue on the North side of Main Street in Steinbach.

Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of the front passenger, 21 year old, Aidan Laing. Laing was charged for Possession of a Weapon for a dangerous purpose and three counts of failing to comply with conditions of his undertaking on unrelated charges.

He was remanded into custody and will be appearing in Winnipeg court.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Thousands of supporters filled the streets around City Hall in Steinbach during the City’s first historic Pride March.

Michelle McHale and her partner Karen Phillips, along with Chris Plett carry the Pride Flag proudly through the streets of Steinbach.

Photos by Marianne Curtis

Grunthal Hosts Gruelling Second Spartan Race

By Marianne Curtis Despite soaring temperatures, racers flocked to Grunthal on July 19 to participate in the grueling Spartan Race. This is the second year in a row that the event has taken place in Manitoba.

The Spartan Race is a series of obstacle at varying distance and difficulty ranging from 3 miles up to marathon distances. These races are held in the US and franchised in 14 countries, including Canada, many European countries, South Korea and Australia.

This year, for the second time, the event took place in Manitoba, at the Grunthal Motocross Park.

Spartan Race Coach Jesse Cox said the park was an ideal location for the Spartan Race, with challenging terrain and lots of mud. “The Reebok Spartan Race is the world’s largest obstacle race that challenges entrants to discover their “inner warrior”. The courses are 5 km with over 15 obstacles scattered throughout. The participants go off in limited size waves every 30 minutes starting at 8 am,” explained Cox. “At the finish line, all successfully completed racers received a Spartan t-shirt and medal to show off with pride. This obstacle event is for all levels of fitness and promotes selfesteem, teamwork and Three generations of the Manaigre participated in this year’s Spartan Race.

Roger Manaigre was the second oldest men’s participant in 2016, daughter Sylvie Manaigre who won the Women’s 5.5 km Sprint Champion 2015 and 2016, and granddaughter Elise Manaigre-Lobendahn who finished first in the girls 5 year category.

accomplishing goals.”

For two years in a row, Sylvie Manaigre has come out on top. Her father, Roger was proud of his daughter’s success in the race. “My daughter Sylvie Manaigre is one of the top Spartan athletes in Canada and has done very well in most events ran in Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec city and others in North America,” said Manaigre. “She does this only part time as she has a full time job as a sales manager for a large fashion company and travels a great deal.

Manaigre won the Spartan sprint this year with a time of 42:58. Last year, she came in first place.

The Reebok Spartan Race has been holding races in cities across British Columbia and Alberta since 2011, After this year’s successful race, Grunthal has joined Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer and Sun Peaks as a premier Spartan Race destination.

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Steinbach RCMP responded to a complaint of an Impaired Driver in the area of Richer on July 22. The vehicle was located in the ditch on Dawson Road. A 37-year-old male resident of Winnipeg was charged with Refusal to submit to a breathalyser, driving without a licence and driving an unregistered vehicle.

A few hours later, while on patrol, Steinbach RCMP observed a vehicle leaving a drinking establishment on Hwy 52. A subsequent check revealed the 47-year-old male driver, a resident of La Broquerie, was intoxicated and he was charged with impaired driving.

On July 23 at 2 am, Steinbach RCMP members, while on patrol, observed a vehicle driving erratically on Main Street in Steinbach. A 22year-old male resident of Ste. Anne was charged with impaired driving.

By Marianne Curtis them. “That attic must’ve been so hot that the lightning just expanded that air and blew out everything,” he said. “There was an explosion.”

Everyone left the house, and Belanger and his neighbours called 911 and used garden hoses to douse the flames while they waited for fire crews from Ile des Chene and St. Adolphe to arrive.

Belanger said he is grateful no one was seriously hurt. In a letter to the Ritchot Fire Department, the Belangers thanked the fire fighters for helping control the blaze and helping capture a wayward family pet that was spooked in the incident.

Environment Canada said there were at least 4,000 lightning strikes during the storm.

Power was knocked out in some areas for over twenty-four hours.

Manitoba Hydro confirmed that fallen trees downed power lines and poles, and access was blocked, which delayed some power restorations in Falcon Lake.

3

Police Arrest Three Impaired Drivers in Less Than 8 Hours

Storms Wreak Havoc Throughout Region A severe weather mass stormed through the area in the middle of July, causing trees to fall, buildings to burn and knocked out power for thousands of customers.

On July 20, a savage wind and rainstorm swept though the region.

Twisters touched down on Long Plains First Nations and the New Rosedale Hutterite community, both in the Portage La Prairie areas.

East of the Red River, a lightening strike is to blame for the roof fire in St. Adolphe. Shortly after winds knocked out power in Ile des Chenes, pagers sounded the alarm to a blaze along LeClaire Road, west of Ile des Chenes. Sparks were seen in the vicinity of a house under construction along Ash Lane, but it turned out as a false alarm. Fire crews had barely left the site when a second structure fire call came in, this time in St. Adolphe.

Terry and Loy Belanger were sitting down for dinner with guests when they were interrupted when lightning struck the house, causing the roof to cave in around

August 2016

Strange cloud formations formed over Ile des Chenes when two air masses collided overhead.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

Winds knocked down trees in Falcon Lake Campground damaging vehicles and buildings.

Three Major GreenInfrastructure Projects Approved

By Marianne Curtis The Village of St. Pierre-Jolys, the St. Malo Provincial Park and RM of Emerson-Franklin will all be able to improve their communities thanks to a major Federal government municiapal-green infrastructure promise.

On July 26, Provencher MP Ted Falk announced that a total of $3,575,000 in funding will be going to the three communities to improve their lagoon’s or water supply. “These new projects will have long-term, positive impacts on St-Pierre-Jolys, Arnaud and St. Malo and will take much of the financial burden off of local residents,” said Falk. “Investments in local public infrastructure, strengthens communities and improves the quality of life for residents of Provencher.”

“We are pleased to partner with the federal government to support local infrastructure priorities throughout the province. Our plan to provide all municipalities with a ‘Fair Say’ on how funds are invested in their communities will include a single window application intake for cost-shared infrastructure funding. Our Government’s new approach to strategic infrastructure investment will reduce red tape, allow more efficient access to funding and put Manitoba on the path to a stronger economy and closer to becoming the most improved province in Canada,” stated MP Eileen Clarke, Minister of Indigenous and Municipal Relations.

The Village of St-Pierre-Jolys will receive federal funding of $1,500,000 for its lagoon expansion. The St. Malo Provincial Park will

receive $325,000 for a water treatment plant, and the RM of Emerson-Franklin will receive $1,750,000 for the Arnaud and area potable water supply project.

Village of St. Pierre Mayor Mona Fallis said the funding is a welcome and positive surprise. New changes to the funding formula gives communites 50% from the federal government, 25% from the province and 25% from municipality. It used to be shared 1/3 each. The community also received $750,000 from the province. “With the Federal government putting in 50%, then it leaves just 25% for the village, so that is incredible. That is a huge savings for us,” Fallis told media. “This means it will cost local taxpayers less than we originally assessed.”

Originally, council had assessed that ratepayers would pay $186 on a $200,000 assessed home. The new contribution lowers this to about $140 per home, which Fallis notes will help young families.

Once the new lagoon is built in the Village of St. Pierre-Jolys growth is expected to take place in the area again. Currently there is a moratorium on construction. Once the project has been approved, council will once again be able to entertain building permits.

“We have several developers waiting for the okay to start building,” Fallis continued.

“Now we can give them the okay.

Construction of the lagoon is expected in the spring, with completion over ther next eight months.

The new infrastructure funding is being provided by the Clean Water and Wastewater Fund. Infrastructure Canada launched the Clean Water and Wastewater Fund to provide communities with more reliable water and wastewater systems so that both drinking water and effluent meet legislated standards. This Fund will improve the safety and quality of water for Canadian families, while supporting a clean economy.

4

August 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Liberals Do Not Understand Small Business During the 2015 federal election campaign, Justin Trudeau promised time and time again that small business tax rates would be going down. Unfortunately, the Liberals abandoned that promise when they introduced their first federal budget earlier this year.

The Liberal Government cancelled the scheduled lowering of the small business tax rate and eliminated the hiring credit for small businesses. These broken promises will cost the small business sector more than $2 billion over the next four years.

Under the 2016 budget, the top tax bracket for over half of our provinces will be more than 50% of an individual’s income. It is tax increases such as this that punish some of the most productive workers in our society.

What is worse is that the Liberals accused small business owners of manipulating the system to avoid paying higher taxes. In a 2015 CBC interview, Justin Trudeau stated, “...small businesses are actually just ways for wealthier Canadians to save on their taxes.” We all know that nothing could be further from the truth as two-thirds of small and medium-sized business owners fall directly into the middle class. In fact, there are nearly four times as many owners earning less than $40,000 than those earning more than $250,000.

Conservatives understand that small businesses are important drivers of Canada’s economy and we know that keeping taxes low for small business owners is paramount to ensuring strong job creation.

We will continue to push the Liberals to start helping - instead of ignoring - small businesses.

For more information on this or other issues, please feel free to contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204-326-9889.

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

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 Copy Editing: Monica Guetre Advertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre

For Advertising Call: Phone: (204) 422-8548 Fax: (204) 422-9768 Email: sales@dawsontrail.ca Subscriptions: $29.95 annually plus GST for Canadian Subscriptions. $52.95 annually for International Subscriptions

Canada Post Agreement Number 42079020

Dawson Trail Dispatch

The Elephant in the Room At the best of times, it is impossible to ignore American politics, but this political season things are downright scary. Political party’s nominees are chosen, the die is cast with ninety some days of political diatribe still to go before the determination of who will be elected leader of the free world.

I have been following American politics since the late 50s and this particular election is the scariest. The President who is chosen has at their fingertips and at a moment’s notice the authority and ability to unleash a barrage of nuclear weapons, which would for all intent and purpose annihilate the planet’s humans. Needless to say, this is the worst-case scenario but to have someone with a sober second thought and a rudimentary understanding of geopolitics would seem to be a prerequisite. Since the 50s, I have heard all contending candidates speak and not once have I felt such apprehension as towards this year’s Republican nominee, Donald Trump.

This is a man who dismisses and denigrates any segment of the population at any given time. He has insulted women, reporters, people with afflictions, Blacks, Hispanics, Muslims and let’s give it time because the list is diverse and growing, we’ll probably have the dubious honour of making the list before Election Day. His only promise to date which has any specifics is building a wall at the Mexican border and have them pay for it, any other ideas have no explanation of cost or for that matter value, except that the population will “love” it. What is very surprising is that none of his nonsensical pronouncements seems to adversely stick to him.

His latest is to implore the Russians to hack his opponent’s e-mails from when she was Secretary of State. He’s oblivious of the fact that he is encouraging espionage by a foreign country and by his suggesting it is bordering on treason to boot. He squares this by saying he trusts President Putin of Russia, this same man who helped Russian sympathizers occupy eastern provinces in the Ukraine and annexed Crimea.

Trump would also change the rules of NATO, which have been in place since WWII. He suggests America would not necessarily come to any member’s aid if it were under attack instead it would depend on their military budget. This is an organization which has protected many of the world’s democracies for over sixty years, changing the rule now would only embolden countries which only pay lip service to democracy. It should give the American public real concern; perhaps his intensions are to only pay lip service to American democracy.

Furthermore, he wants to renegotiate NAFTA, maybe a fair number of people in North America would want the chance but the end result would still be give and take.

Trump’s past demeanour as an American billionaire is that everybody else gives in and he takes. This is the same guy who has declared bankruptcy 6 times and views the procedure as good business in avoiding unwanted expenditures. This same person who has hired undocumented Mexicans and paid less than minimum wage to these same people he wishes to deport.

The Democratic nominee is Hillary Clinton as probably the most qualified candidate for the job of President ever. She is wearing many insulting adjectives but most can be boiled down to the fact she is a woman, the first ever nominated for the job.

The same is what happened to President Obama as the first black President elected. He has worn and is still wearing unearned baggage. Many American citizens still have difficulties with seeing black. You don’t believe me? How many blacks have been shot and killed by members of police departments in the good old USA just this year. In this day and age racism and prejudice still lives and common sense too often doesn’t apply.

Trump is a sociopath and he is asking his country to elect him for the next four years; millions of people from many countries will be affected if this comes to pass. This is a person who should only be an insignificant footnote in history as opposed to commanding a whole bloody chapter. Through history, many Americans have flirted with isolation as seen before WW1 and WW11 but being the biggest democratic magnet in the world and the ease in which we can communicate today it will never work. How do you convey to the American people that their Presidential pick affects the world and Trump is one scary SOB?

Another Mennonite Approach Dear Editor: I live in Provencher riding with my spouse and our two children and am a former member of the Canadian Forces. Our Member of Parliament Ted Falk has voiced unequivocal support for families and the military.

But because we are a gay couple, that support evaporates.

I’m concerned about the opinion, widely expressed after Steinbach Pride, that it is acceptable for our local politicians to not support the LGBTTQ community for personal reasons. But we are talking about much more than personal support. Mr. Falk has recently gone on record saying equal rights for our community are “an attack on the family.” What about the families to which we belong, and which we create? Nothing is more important to me than to raise our children. Why would Mr. Falk wish to remove my civil rights, enjoyed by every other Canadian?

Mr. Falk may feel LGBTTQ people are the enemy. But that does not mean we are “attacking” anyone. For him to pretend otherwise is gaslighting, and a way to justify continued hostility.

From recent media reports, we know that many Mennonite LGBTTQ people have faced personal catastrophe from being shunned from their faith, family, and community.

As a former Canadian Forces member and a father, nothing is more offensive to find that my MP refuses to support my civil rights, and refuses to discuss the matter with me despite repeated attempts.

There is a gentler path to be found in the Mennonite tradition. Pastor Pieter Niemeyer of Rouge Valley Mennonite Church in Markham says, “Attitudes have been moving toward a more fair and just approach regarding the LGBTQ community. I believe this is the work of the Spirit of Christ.” (Canadian Mennonite vol. 20 Issue 4) He also cites Romans 14, which “reminds us to love by carefully tending to each other’s convictions of faith without intimidation, threats or domination.” My own faith does not preclude rights or respect for LGBTTQ people. Perhaps Pastor Niemeyer’s approach may be instructive to Mr. Falk and his pastors.

Ken MacDonald

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Consulting with Manitobans Initiative Begins As a government, we have committed to ensuring that Manitobans are consulted and have meaningful input through conversations with their government and elected officials about the direction of the province. I believe this builds better communities and the trust that Manitoba was lacking for far too long.

In July alone, three consultation opportunities have been announced and I invite the community to submit their ideas as we work together to build a better province. They are: - The Non-Essential Use of Pesticides Regulation which is now in its second year of implementation. The government would like to hear your thoughts on this regulation to evaluate if it forms a balanced approach to protecting the environment, minimizing any negative impact, and providing usable, aesthetic green spaces for communities.

You can submit your thoughts by email to pesticides.review.2016@gov.mb.ca or by survey at gov.mb.ca/ conservation.

- Labour Market Transfer Agreements, which aims to maximize the benefits of federal funding to strengthen our labour force. The government is asking stakeholders and organizations to join in the discussion to make programs more responsive to Manitoban’s needs through agreements such as Labour Market Development, Canada Job Fund, Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities and initiative for older workers. The deadline for responses is August19 and can be sent to labourmarketconsultations@gov.mb.ca or by mail to Room 405-800 Portage Ave, Winnipeg MB R3G 0N4.

- Recycling and collections programs have recently released their five-year plans for the handling of collection, recycling and disposal of designated material through 12 industry-led stewardship programs. The government would like your input on these plans, which can be found at greenmanitobba.ca/new-stewardship-plans, by calling 204-945-0578 or 1-800-460-3118 (toll-free). The deadline for responses is October 4 and can be sent to stewardship@greenmanitoba.ca or mailed to Green Manitoba, Manitoba Sustainable Development, Box 50, 160-123 Main St., Winnipeg MB R3C 1A5.

This consultation process and individuals’ input and ideas are truly valuable to the decision making of the government and how we will grow.

Back in the constituency, I have been busy meeting with the Rural Municipalities and working on an array of initiatives within Dawson Trail. Some of these are long overdue and I look forward to assisting the process and working together to build our community. I also had the opportunity to attend the childcare centre in St. Adolphe to read to the children and stop in for the official opening of the Ste. Anne Splash Pad. There are many exciting events in August, I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy some quality time with family and friends.

We are at the final stages of opening our office at Unit B – 511 Main St., St Adolphe. I look forward to officially announcing our doors are open. In the meantime, if you have any questions or comments, I can be reached at 204-807-4663 or by email at bob.lagasse@leg.gov.mb.ca.

Manitoba on Its Way to the Most Improved Province After the first seven-week sitting of our first legislative session, our new PC government is well on its way to making Manitoba the most improved province in Canada.

A lot was accomplished in just seven weeks. Our Throne Speech on May 16, 2016 that made clear our Progressive Conservative government’s vision for the initial steps we would take to deliver a stronger economy, better services and a brighter future for all Manitobans.

Our Budget 2016, introduced on May 31 takes strong steps to correct the course of the previous NDP administration. Moving our province back towards fiscal balance, while avoiding tax increases.

Strengthening Manitoba’s economy by taking steps to join the New West Partnership, which will increase trade with Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. This agreement will help create jobs in Manitoba while helping businesses expand and reach more customers across western Canada.

On July 17 – 20, I had the honour of attending the 71st Annual Midwestern Legislative Conference. This is a non-partisan event with representation from eleven states and four provinces. There were policy sessions on Agriculture and Resources, Economic Development, Education and Human Services and Midwest-Canada Relations. These four days were filled with great presentations and engaging keynote speakers. I found all the topics covered and presenters very informative and interesting. As political leaders, we all have a lot in common, by collaborating and working together, we can learn from each other.

There were many presentations that I found impressive and informative. Some of the topics included early childhood development, combating opioid overdoses, addiction to prescription drugs, and the future of water, as well as a keynote presentation from Ms. Ayesha Khanna called “The Future of Work and Skills in the Man-Machine Age”. This future-focused presentation explored the coming workforce challenges in the “man-machine hybrid age” determining which industries will still require human labour and which will be automated.

There was also a presentation called “The Protein Highway” given by Jamshed Merchant, Canada’s Consul General in Minneapolis. It was a great example about how important it is to share research between provinces and states. The “Protein Highway” initiative encompasses three Canadian provinces (Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan) and six US states (Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota).

This region is the most prolific producer of edible protein in the world.

The goal of this new initiative, which includes participation from university faculty and agricultural producers, is not only to improve research capabilities and cooperation, but also to create a region wide brand built around protein production.

As always, I look forward to hearing from you with any questions or concerns. I can be reached at my constituency office at 204-424-5406, my legislative office at 204-945-4339 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca.

August 2016

5

Co-op Funds Grand Pointe Park

By Marianne Curtis A $1.5 million commitment from Co-op will protect, beautify, and enhance spaces in communities across western Canada, including two local projects located in La Broquerie and Grande Pointe.

The Grande Point Homeowners Association received $75,000 to bring a new community clubhouse to their outdoor rink. The new four-season facility at the Grande Pointe Park will provide users with a place to warm up, access bathrooms and host other events.

The La Broquerie Community Development Corporation also received $63,000 to promote fitness and outdoor activities by installing outdoor fitness equipment.

Since launching in 2015, Co-op Community Spaces has provided almost $2.5 million to 37 local projects that benefit communities throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

The two local organizations were among only twenty-one other successful recipients spanning all four western Canadian provinces.

The Grande Pointe Homeowners Association accepted this cheque from Co-op for improvements to the community’s park.

Citizens Have the Right to Know Open Letter to Premier Dear Premier, I’m writing in response to the Provincial Government’s review of the Cosmetic Pesticide Regulation. I support the current regulation.

The action of synthetic herbicides (and insecticides) on human health, and on the natural resources we depend on can only be partially studied.

Of the nearly infinite conditions that determine a pesticide’s effects, only a tiny fraction are simulated in a laboratory. Given the abundance of synthetic hormones, solvents, medications, aerosols and countless other organic compounds already found in the environment, dangerous reactions with other chemicals are as sure to occur, as they are unpredictable.

We have only to look at historical and current-day disasters to know that birth and health defects, species collapse, and severe economic losses often follow the same kind of confident studies and declarations of safety that we’re assured with today. Moreover, these effects are only discovered long after they are manifested in nature. When measured against the almost insignificant sacrifice of tending our lawns without dangerous chemicals, no rational argument can be made to proceed with the reckless assumption of harmlessness.

The government’s responsibility is to impart maximum freedom and benefit to the population. This cannot be achieved by allowing unnecessary threats to our health and to the land that supports our economy. Rather, citizens have the right to know - beyond the assurances of a government laboratory - that their water, air and land are free from the unknown effects of synthetic chemical agents.

I ask that you retain this regulation and strengthen it. I would support an even more conservative approach to the use of these chemicals, including licensing and end-use accountability for all permitted users.

This, alongside a comprehensive public education strategy is the safest, most reasonable way forward.

Sincerely yours, Wade Wiebe La Broquerie, MB

6

August 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Splash Pads Open in Niverville and Ste. Anne

By Marianne Curtis

As the summer temperatures soar, the communities of Niverville and Ste. Anne are both celebrating the opening of brand new splash parks.

On July 12, the Town of Niverville opened the Niverville Community Splash Pad. Located in Hespler Park, on the east side, the pad is approximately 3,500 square feet. The Splash Pad was completely funded by the Town of Niverville as part of its ongoing mandate to build and improve the recreation facilities with the Town of Niverville for the benefit of all residents young and old alike.

The project was made possible thanks to funding from Western Economic Diversification Canada for the Canada 150 Funding. This funding was announced a year ago by the Federal government by Provencher MP Ted Falk, and was used to cover a portion of building costs towards the washroom, change room and canteen building.

Provencher MP Ted Falk was on hand to cut the ribbon in Niverville. “Last summer I was pleased to announce that the government of Canada was partnering with Niverville to help make this dream a reality,” stated Falk. “Great to see it open now for the community’s enjoyment. Stay cool everyone!”

The Town of Niverville hired Heritage Lane Builders to construct the washroom, change room and canteen building.

On July 28, the Ste. Anne Community Splash Pad was officially opened. Located at the Parc des Rédemptoristes the project took over 5 years of planning. The Splash Pad is approximately 250 sq. metres and in addition includes upgrades to existing washrooms to include change rooms, which form part of the Pavilion.

Bob Lagasse, MLA for Dawson Trail was on hand at the grand opening in St. Anne. “I am pleased to be part of this exciting community project and the near-completion of the skate park where children, youth and families can gather, have fun and stay active,” said Lagasse. “This project will enrich the lives of local residents by providing new opportunities for community-based recreation activities.”

Both splash pads feature a toddler water play area for ages 0-3 and a family play area for ages 3-12. Water features are bright and colourful and fully accessible and inclusive for all ages and abilities.

The Town of Ste. Anne hired Flo Industries Ltd for the construction of the Splash Pad but also retained the services of local businesses to complete the project.

ROC Cyclathon Gears Up for Youth

The ribbon is cut to declare that the new Niverville Splash pad is open in Heritage Park.

In Ste. Anne, kids of all ages and abilities have access to a lovely new splash pad in the Parc des Rédemptoristes.

Ile Des Chenes Hosts Blue Jays Super Camp

By Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis At the beginning of August, cyclists will brave the elements and pedal 100 kilometres to raise money to help youth participate in recreational activities.

Recreational Opportunities for Children (ROC) spokesperson Moni Loewen said they are excited about their upcoming event, especially after last year’s success. “Despite the crazy heat and humidity, we had twelve cyclists join us last year for the 100km ride and 25 cyclists of all ages joined us for the 5 km ride,” said Loewen. “With the help of dedicated volunteers, caring donors and eager cyclists, everyone finished the day safe and sound and we raised over $8,700 for ROC families!”

Loewen hopes the group raises $10,000 during this year’s event taking place August 6 with two routes planned. The Family Fun Route along the LA Barkman Park (Abe’s Hill) bike path in Steinbach starts at 11 am and the 10-100 km route from La Broquerie Lumber Rona along Hwy 210 towards Marchand and back. All cyclists will be treated to a BBQ lunch at both locations.

The event actually started two year’s ago, with Loewen’s husband along with two others who completed a 100 km ride to raise funds and awareness about the organization. Last year, they decided to make it a public event.

Since 2009, Eastman Recreation Opportunities for Children has taken a hands-on approach with families to come up with a workable recreation plan and provide more than financial support for sports and physical activities. “We go one step further and provide financial assistance for registration fees, equipment and fuel for a huge variety of recreation activities,” Loewen continued.

Activities include photography, music or singing lessons, gardening, dog obedience classes, dance, Kung Fu, Special Olympics, clay making, swimming lessons, soccer, creative writing and more.

On average, Recreation Opportunities for Children Eastman works with about thirty children per year in communities including St. Malo, St. Pierre-Jolys, Steinbach, Niverville, Blumenort, La Broquerie, Pine Falls and Beausejour.

For more information on ROC Eastman, please visit roceastman.ca.

It was the field of dreams for baseball fans, when a quartet of Blue Jays’ greats shared their secrets of success with about one hundred and sixty budding baseball players in Ile des Chenes.

On July 20 and 21, one of fourteen Blue Jays Honda Super Camps took place in Ile Des Chenes, bringing with it several alumni, including pitcher Duane Ward, second baseman Roberto Aloma and star outfielders Devon White and Lloyd Moseby.

For two days, approximately hundred and sixty youth baseball between 9 and 16 came out to the Optimist Park to participate in the one of a kind experience hosted by the Seine River Minor Ball.

Alex Grenier, Seine River Minor Ball President invited the camp to Ile des Chenes after he noted that the Blue Jays were looking for a Manitoba location to host the super camp. “So I applied to the Blue Jays to host it here in Ile des Chenes,” Grenier confirmed. “We have kids from all over participating; but I think the parents enjoyed this just as much of the kids. Some parents and coaches grew up watching these guys play in their televisions and today, they are learning from them.”

The Blue Jays Honda Super Camps evolved from a partnership between the Blue Jays Baseball Academy, Baseball Canada and Little League Canada. The baseball instructional camp provided players with an ultimate Major League experience of learning skills and techniques from the major league all-stars. The training camp was open to both male and female players.

On the afternoon of the first day was also the T12 tryouts for players 18 & under for the right to play on the Prairie Team in a national tournament later in the year at the Rogers Centre.

One hundred and sixty kids came out to learn baseball tips from the pros.

Photos by Marianne Curtis

Blue Jay’s alumni Roberto Alomar, Devon White, Lloyd Moseby, and Duane Ward came out and taught Blue Jays Honda Super Camp in Ile des Chenes.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

August 2016

7

8

August 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Are You Good to Go? Since the personal income tax season ended about June 15, I’ve been trying to catch up on some reading. If you have been to the waiting area in my office, you will have noticed I have a fairly large library of reading material, but of course, most of it is around financial planning and estate planning and dying. Some people think I’m kind of morbid.

Maybe. But I think it helps me help my clients in ways too many other professionals in their lives don’t seem to be helping. Let’s stop avoiding the issue. We will all die eventually.

So are you Good to Go? I’ve created a checklist I will give to most of my clients next tax season. Yes, mainly the seniors.

I’m 51 and even I have to acknowledge I have fewer good years ahead of me than I have behind me. In July after reading several estate planning books, I did start thinking about if I am “good to go”. And the answer is sort of but not completely. I do have the required legal documents in place (Will, Power of Attorney, Health Care Directive), but I’m really not “good to go”.

So are you? If you would like a copy of my checklist, just stop by my office for a copy or send me an email and I will email you a copy. It’s not perfect and I may need to adjust it as I spend time with clients, but it’s better than what I’ve seen so far. It’s basic and on one page. Here’s a description of what’s on it so you can follow along and decide what you still have outstanding to do.

Of course, the legal documents come to mind first and you may have them already too, but do they reflect your current wishes? (Mine don’t, they are from 14 years ago and need to be changed; our beneficiaries need updating; our alternate executors need updating).

So if you think your Will is fine, answer these questions: do you have an executor and an alternate named? And it can be more than one (there are pros and cons to having executors that are joint and have to act together).

The bigger question is, have you given them copies of your Will and do they know where the original is? And have you given copies to your beneficiaries? (Why not tell them now what your plans are?)

Are you leaving a legacy? Are you including a charity as one of your beneficiaries? Is there an organization or two that you would like to leave some of you money to?

Regarding your Power of Attorney, have you named one legal representative and an alternate? Again, you can have joint, but not necessarily recommended or required.

Have you named “a recipient of accounts”? This person will receive the accounting of all the transactions your representative has done on your behalf while you have been unable to look after your own finances. It’s a good idea to have your legal rep be accountable to someone else in your family. And have you given them copies of the Power of Attorney and do they know where the original is? Do the rest of your beneficiaries (often your other children) know who has been appointed? Why keep it a secret?

Do you have a “good” health care directive? I emphasize “good” because until about one year ago, I didn’t know what a good one was. A better one is called a Compassionate Care Contract. I wrote an article on it a year ago (see annimarkmann.ca for all my archived articles). If you need a copy of the form or the article or both, call or email me.

The reason the compassionate care contract is better than most health care directives is because it is easy to understand (clear and only two pages) and gives good instructions to your family on what kind of end of life care you want. It’s really about “how do I want to die”. And do you want to extend your dying or not?

Once you complete it, review it with your doctor and your family, especially the one (and an alternate) that will make medical decisions for you if you cannot. Review it with all your family members (often your children). Give them copies. Let them know where the original is.

Do you see a pattern here? It’s called open communication with your family. Start talking with them now. Share your documents. Help them understand. And if they don’t want to hear it, tell them it’s important to you and to them. It will keep the family peaceful and unified after you are gone. Bring in a mediator like me if your family needs help communicating.

OK, a few more items you should put down on paper to ensure you are good to go.

Do you have your vital statistics ready for your executor? I had to scramble a bit when my mother died, needed to double check with some cousins in Denmark about the names of my mother’s parents including her mother’s maiden name (and correct spelling) and where her parents were born. I was more prepared when my father died (I was a quick learner).

I realize this documented information is even more important for those who do not have children or who are estranged from their children. Who will know this information?

I have been named executor or alternate executor for several clients in the past few years and realize I need to get this info from these clients so they are “good to go”.

Have you planned your funeral? Do you have it written down? Have you shared this plan with your family? You need to let them know what you want so they arrange what you want and not what you wouldn’t have wanted. And you ensure they spend what you expect, not what they may emotionally feel obligated to do. Shop around with your funeral plan and find out which funeral home your family should use. I’m not saying you

August 2016

9

have to prepay, that is an individual decision. The written plan is the most important part.

Have you written your obituary? Who knows you better than you? And this is the final piece you can have major input in! I’m an obituary reader and I enjoy reading the stories of people’s lives. So what do you want in your obituary? I plan to have mine in the first person (Mine will be full of “I” and “me”, not “she”).

Have you written your eulogy? Why not? I want to make sure those attending my funeral know about my past bank career and curling accomplishments and that I started as an entrepreneur at age 13 selling worms to fishermen/women, while summer vacationing at my sister’s farm in BC, and that for many years I made homemade wine and beer. You know all those things that many people may not know! I want them to hear stories about me that will make them laugh!

I hope this gives you some ideas on how to make sure you are Good to Go. I am planning some workshops in the fall (September and October) to help people with all of the above and more. Likely over three evenings or three afternoons. And will likely group similar people: couples, couples in second relationships, individuals (single, divorced, widowed). If you are interested in attending, let us know and we will put you on our list to invite as soon as we have the dates scheduled.

And I will have one or two Death Cafes in the fall and winter before next February. I already have a long list of people who are interested in the next upcoming ones. If you want to be added to the list, let us know!

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

10

August 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Steinbach Legion Victim of Break In

On July 8 at approximately 7:30 am, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a break, enter and theft at the Steinbach Legion located on Lumber Avenue in Steinbach. The incident would have occurred between

July 7 at 5 pm and July 8 at 7:15 am. The culprit(s) made off with liquor, cash, audio/video equipment and a bayonnet. The loss is estimated at over $5,000.

If you have any information in regards to the above you are

Dawson Trail Dispatch

asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-3264452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN� plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Goertzen to Co-Chair Bi-Lateral Committee Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister and Steinbach MLA, Kelvin Goertzen has been appointed to serve as co-chair of the Midwest-Canada Relations Committee. The Committee is comprised of elected leaders from 11 US states and four Canadian provinces and is part of the Midwestern Legislative Conference (MLC).

Goertzen, who has served as a member of the committee for several years, is looking forward to taking on this new leadership role. “The relationship between Canada and the United States is very important to both of our countries. There are strong economic, security, political and personal ties between us. I look forward to taking a leadership role on this international committee and working to strengthen those ties to the benefit of both our nations,” said Goertzen.

Goertzen will co-chair the committee with Indiana Senator Ed Charbonneau. “Senator Charbonneau and I have known each other for several years. I’ve appreciated his support and leadership on a number of issues related to trade and border security between our countries and I value the opportunity to work with him as co-chair of the committee,” said Goertzen.

Manitoba’s ties to the US Midwest are significant and touch on everything from agricultural trade to the export of hydro electricity to tourism. Goertzen said it is important to have a Manitoba voice and perspective at the table.

Lawmakers from the following states are members of the MLC, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

In addition, members of the legislative assemblies in four Canadian provinces, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan are MLC affiliates.

The Midwestern Office of The Council of State Governments provides staff support to the MLC and its policy committees.

The national organization is headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky and has regional offices in Lombard (Chicago), Illinois, Atlanta, New York and Sacramento.

Do We Decide Our Own Fate?

John 3:17-21 ... 17) For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18) Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. 19) This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20) Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. 21) But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God.”(NIV1984) This month’s discussion paper brings us face to face with both love and judgment. It is much easier for us to talk about the love of God. But here we are faced with the love of God as well as His judgment. First, the apostle John writes that God so loved the world that He sent His Son to save the world. But then John also writes that Jesus said He came into the world to pronounce judgment on those who reject His message.

Can both be true?

Those who refuse to believe that Christ died for the sins of the whole world stand judged. Condemned by their refusal to believe that Jesus is the Son of God and died to save humanity from their sin.

They and they only have decided their own fate.

This is how judgment works. Judgment is the separation between our wantonness, shamelessness and lack of remorse and the love that Christ brought into the world. The love that Christ was talking about proved to be a great dividing influence in the world because people are so emotionally involved in a way of life that in the eyes of Christ is evil. Those who do evil things hate what Scripture teaches because it reveals their evil deeds. When we make the choice to remain enmeshed, trapped and spellbound in sinful behaviour and refuse to come to Christ, we pass judgment on ourselves in our own denial of the choices we have made. But when people are confronted with what Jesus taught, some respond in a very positive way by accepting Christ as their Lord and Savior who removes that future judgment.

But what about believers/Christians: How does love and judgment affect the way we live our daily lives? The first thing we must remember is that Christ has died for all past and future sin in our lives. Having said that, I do not believe that we have the right to sin willfully; when we do sin, we can humbly come to Jesus to repent of our sin knowing that He will forgive us.

But, we do not always come to Christ because we might be involved in, let’s say, “A secret sin.” It is in times like that, that the Holy Spirit wants to bring to our attention that what we are involved in is sinful. That attention might be carried out by Satan but conceived by God. Often the insults and buffeting we suffer will be of a spiritual nature as we struggle with holiness and perhaps even spiritual pride. Many times, we can hurt on various levels, not all that are noticeable or in plain sight for others to see, we should never be surprised at how the thorn in our side will be noticeable because God wants us to understand that His love for us endures forever.

When we Christians/believers find our faith being challenged with a spiritual pain (my pain maybe very different from yours) in our side, and that spiritual pain lingers in our life, we should not be disheartened or discouraged. Rather, we should think of it as God continuing to be at work in our lives. His desire is for us to change whatever it is we are involved in. We may never know all the reasons why we have had to suffer all the thorns in our side. Remember the apostle Paul asked God 3 times for his thorn to be removed (2 Corinthians. 12:7-10).

However, God said that His grace was sufficient for Paul. I believe that same grace is sufficient for you and me... To God Be the Glory!

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

Amen.”

August 2016

11

The Earnestness in Every Human Spirit Have you ever said or had this thought, “Why do I feel so empty inside?” Solomon, a wise king from Bible times, sheds some light on this problem.

Solomon was wise and wealthy so he could experiment and try all sorts of way to bring joy, satisfaction and fulfillment. The Book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible details his experiments, their results and his conclusion.

He looked at all of nature around us. Although much of it is beautiful and enjoyable for a time, it didn’t bring the lasting satisfaction he was looking for. Then Solomon tried hard work. He built houses, pools, vineyards, orchards and gardens. He got silver and gold and had many servants to help him. It didn’t matter what he did, it didn’t fill the emptiness within. Next Solomon tried wisdom, education and learning. People today think when they get their University degree or trade ticket they have it made. But the smartest man on earth found that didn’t work either. Solomon accumulated all the things money could buy but then found his neighbours were jealous of him. Now he had no real friends and he still wasn’t satisfied. He looked at the world we are on and saw people come and people go. He saw good things happen to bad people and bad things happen to good people. Solomon did many more experiments to find meaning in life but the end result was always the same.

The results of all Solomon’s tests in life can be summed up by this phrase, “It is all vanity and vexation of spirit.” This phrase occurs six times in the book of Ecclesiastes and the word “vanity” occurs thirty seven times.

Vanity means emptiness, fruitless desire and a want of substance to satisfy man’s desire.

Vexation means irritating, troubling, harassing or disturbing of the mind. Solomon said that everything he tried brought emptiness (vanity) and it troubled (vexed) his spirit. Why? When God made man, He gave him a body, a soul and a spirit. The spirit is our Godconsciousness. God put a little earnest (a seeking for God) in every spirit of every man on earth. That earnest can only be satisfied, fulfilled and find true joy when man finds the Almighty God of heaven. This can only happen as we come to God through His Son, Jesus Christ. God puts this earnest in the spirit of man so we will search for Him and when we search for Him with all our heart, He will be found. Now Romans 1:20 makes more sense, “They [all mankind] are without excuse.” This tells us there really is no true honest atheist.

God has ordained life for us on earth so that no matter what area of life man pursues, it will only bring vanity and vexation of spirit. Only God can bring satisfaction and fill that empty void within. God wants us to come to Him instead of the things in the world around us.

Don’t keep God waiting. Why not come to Him today? There’s a song that says, “Now none but Christ can satisfy.” May you find this to be true in your life as well. God Bless.

12

August 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Tractor Pull Makes Return to Red River Coop Speedway

August 2016

13

Vehicles Targets of Thieves in Rural Communities Steinbach RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in solving multiple related mischiefs that occurred sometime between the evening of Tuesday, July 19 and the morning of Wednesday, July 20 in Steinbach, Mitchell and La Broquerie. The culprits went through several vehicles in the area and stole various items from the vehicles. Some vehicles were locked and others not.

The targeted areas so far known are the following, Neufeld Drive and Peters Lane in Mitchell, 4th Street in Steinbach and Simard Street in La Broquerie.

If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

The Red River Valley Pullers Association put on quite a show for spectators at the Red River Coop Speedway on July 30.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis If you have ever wondered what some farmers do in their spare time, you should have gone to Red River Coop Speedway in St. Adolphe on July 30. In partnership with the Red River Valley Tractor Pulling Association, the Speedway hosted their first tractor pull in 29 years.

Approximately one thousand spectators attended the event, where tractors competed in five categories ranging from 9500# Hot Stock Tractors Turbo Diesel to 7500# Open Modified Tractors. Not to be outdone, pickup trucks also competed in five categories from 6200# Pro-Stock 4x4 Pickups to Modified 4x4 Pickups with 650 Cubic Inch Natural Aspirated limit.

The Red River Valley Pullers Association is a club dedicated to modified truck & modified tractor pulling. Members from North Dakota, Minnesota, and Manitoba are individuals and organizations that promote the motorsport of competitive pulling.

Known as “the world’s most powerful motor sport,” Tractor Pulling is all about creativity, team spirit and having a great time.

The competition requires modified tractors to pull a heavy sled along a 35 foot wide, 330-foot long track, with the winner being the tractor that pulls the sled the farthest.

When more than one tractor completes the course, more weight is added to the sled, and those competitors that moved past 300 feet will compete in a pull-off; the winner is the one who can pull the sled the farthest. Sleds use a complex system of gears to move weights up to 65,000 pounds/29,000 kilograms.

Young Vassar Lifeguard Saves Five Year Old On July 21, STARS was called to the Vassar pool after a child was found unresponsive by lifeguards in the community pool.

Witnesses say a five-year-old boy had gone into the water’s deep end with a noodle where he apparently was separated from it. He was found underwater where he had been for an unknown length of time.

According to Joyce Cayer her eighteen-year-old granddaughter Cassidy Davis, a lifeguard at the Vassar Pool, saved the child’s life along with several bystanders including another youth Damon Stewart who called 911.

“Close to 7 pm, Cassidy drove into my yard and opened the door and you could see she’d been crying and she screamed ‘He’s alive!’ Probably been wanting to yell that for some time, but had to act professional,” Cayer recalled. “She said Stephen Preteau was in the pool and lifted a 5 year old boy out of the water and said ‘Whose child is this?”

While teenagers dealt with the situation, the distraught mother was contained by bystanders until her son was revived.

The boy was then transported to hospital via STARS for further treatment. His condition is unknown.

Cayer said she is proud of her granddaughter for acting quickly and efficiently to safe the unknown child’s life. “I don’t know CPR, but Cassidy said the boy didn’t respond until she was into the second round,” Cayer continued. “She said the sweetest sound in the world she will ever hear is that cough.”

Cayer said there has been no end of praise for Cassidy and how she was “cool as a cucumber and did everything as was expected.”

Multiple Charges Stem from Assault Call On Saturday, July 23 at approximately 7:30 am, Steinbach RCMP attended a residence on 4th Street in Steinbach after receiving a distress call from a female advising she had been assaulted.

Subsequent investigation led RCMP to an address on Main Street in Steinbach where 39 year old Steinbach resident, Russell Peloquin was located attempting to hide from RCMP apprehension.

Peloquin was subsequently arrested and remanded into custody. He appeared before the courts in Winnipeg on July 25. Peloquin has been charged with assault causing bodily harm, uttering threats to kill, possession of a weapon while committing an offence, overcoming resistance by choking, mischief under $5,000 and four breach charges for failing to comply with two separate recognizance orders.

14

August 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

St. Pierre-Jolys Was Jumping with Good Times

During Frog Follies, frog jumping is serious business, no matter how old you are.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis For a few days in July, the community of St. Pierre-Jolys was bustling with activity while they celebrated the annual St. Pierre-Jolys Frog Follies and Agriculture Fair.

The festivities kicked off Thursday night with the Great Canadian Frog hunt where people participated in catching their frogs to be used for the Canadian National Frog Jumping Championship.

Other activities included one of Manitoba’s premier agricultural exhibition displays and fair, numerous children’s activities, slo-pitch tournament, a parade, fireworks, Sunday night DJ social, and the Canadian National Frog Jumping Championship.

Entertainment over the weekend included performances by Prairie Exotics, Dan the Magician, Claide Bellefauille, Les Louis Boys, Robin Chestnut, Diamond Disc Dogs, Frog Follies Improve Troupe, Mad Science Assembly Show, Street Circus, Dean Gunnerson, Southtown and Ricky Smits.

The first Frog Follies took place in 1970 when a group of residents decided they wanted to welcome people into their small town to celebrate their rich francophone heritage during the province’s Centennial. Many events were held that weekend, including the very First Canadian National Frog Jumping Championship.

Ranch Rodeo Takes Over Marchand

The steer won this round as cowboys compete at the 7th annual Manitoba Ranch Rodeo in Marchand.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

by Marianne Curtis For two days at the end of July, the dust was flying as cowboys from three provinces gathered for the annual Manitoba Ranch Rodeo in Marchand.

Organizers say that this year’s event, which took place July 23, and 24 drew larger crowds than others.

Unlike traditional rodeo, ranch rodeo highlights the skills and activities used daily on any ranch. The list of events includes activities such as bronco riding, steer mugging, team doctoring, barrel racing, wild cow milking, calf branding and wild horseracing. Each team scores points that are tabulated to a final score for every competition attended, and at the end of the season, they are presented an award for overall highest scores.

The evening ended with a performance by Quinton Blair.

Summer Arts Day Camps in August too!

Join us this summer for our camps filled with music, dance, drama, visual arts, field trips, community outings, recreation and more! 2 Camps – ages 5-8 and ages 9-12.

Welcome to the Carnival – Monday, August 8 – Friday, August 12.

The Great Outdoors – Monday, August 15 – Friday, August 19.

Enjoy concerts all year round! Makes a perfect gift…

Twin Kennedy fiddle, guitar and singing duo, the Fortin-Poirer Piano Duo, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre’s, Last Train to Nibroc, and much more! A huge feature is a Community Musical, The Wizard of Oz, directed by David Klassen!

SAC fundraiser featuring Rosemary Siemens, violin, and Jayme Giesbrecht, singer. Another added attraction is the Family Day Fringe Fest in February. Reserve your seats today.

Season Ticket Holders Did you renew your seats? If not, call today...or we give them away!

The best seats in town! and for the community musical, you’re in!

NEW! Koncerts 4 Kidz! Series Presenting two shows this year for families – The ever-popular Munschbusters, by Prairie Theatre Exchange will run on Friday, January 20 and Al Simmons, Juno award winning children’s entertainer will be in our City on Saturday, October 22.

Taste of Summer Charity BBQ All proceeds to SAC! On Wednesday August 24, at SCU, 11 am 1pm! COME FOR LUNCH, for a donation (minimum $2) get a hotdog, drink & chips.

The Steinbach Arts Council’s Annual General Meeting on Wednesday August 24 at 8 pm at The Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre.

Corks N’ Canvas Wine Tasting Fundraiser on Thursday, September 8 at SAC - Over 80 different wines served with appetizers sponsored

by Country Meat Deli, raffle prizes sponsored by R Bistro. Enjoy live artists and musicians – Tickets at Liquor Mart and SAC office.

ONLINE REGISTRATION SPECIAL- Register online steinbachartscouncil.com for this fall and receive 10% OFF! Expires Wednesday, August 10. Check our website for the list of applicable fall programs.

REGISTRATION DAY…Receive 10% off Fall Programs! On Thursday, August 25 from 3 - 8 pm at SAC. Over 60 different programs to choose from!

The Backyard Theatre Company – We Want You! Build your confidence and explore your imagination. Get involved with the community! Learn about scripts, acting, character building – be in two productions and events in the community, for ages 5 - 17.

Arts4Tots Preschool Program – Montessori-Inspired We have added more creativity – check this out! Why are we unique?

The most creative way to learn for ages 3-5 with specialists in dance, music, drama and visual arts! Come join Miss Pam and Miss Jen for a year full of creativity, arts, field trips, learning and more! Monday/ Wednesday in the am or pm and Tuesday/Thursday in the am or pm.

Creative Wellness – Pilates – NEW! Power Pilates! Basic Core Pilates, New! Pilates Intermediate, On the Ball Pilates, Zumba, Yoga, Belly Dance – Beginner and Advanced.

Cooking – Creative Cooking, Kids in the Kitchen, Cake X-Travaganza Workshop and Dessert Art Workshop.

Language – Spanish or French.

Visual Arts - Kids - Hand Building with Clay, Kids Art Adventure, Art X-Travaganza Teens - Mixed Art, Pottery Passion, Digital Photography, Cartoon Illustration Adults -Beginner Watercolor Painting, NEW! Beginner Oil Painting, NEW! Abstract Acrylic Painting – Beginner and Intermediate, Contemporary Acrylic, Art X-Travaganza for Adults, Digital Photography, Intro to the Pottery Wheel, NEW! Film Making.

NEW! XCOMPANY - 12 week Dance classes at SAC! Try Hip Hop, Jazz, and Dance4Tots Creative Movement.

Coming this Spring… Another Community Musical…..time to sign up for fun workshops!

FUSION! Musical Theatre Program – Ages 9-14 and 15-19. MUSIC, DANCE, DRAMA workshops by some of the industries finest…expand your triple threat skills!

New! Theory lessons - SAC will be offering group theory lessons for music students taught by Candace Hamm, starting in fall. Limited spaces so get your name on the list and call our office today.

Music lessons - We are pleased that we have several music teachers who will be providing lessons at the Arts Centre this fall in piano, voice and violin. Please call us if you want your name on the list to study with some of the best teachers in the southeast!

Hall Gallery Art Exhibit - “Extravagant Possibilities” Achieving and Undermining Dilettantism Exhibit by Kianna Giesbrecht and Amber Gambling running until Monday, August 15.

Many more details on steinbachartscouncil.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

St. Adolphe Parks Come Together

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Garden Ridge Park Committee. “It is because of Garden Ridge Park Committee and their hard work and The community of St. Adolphe coordination that the northern will soon have two new parks development has a beautiful park thanks to two separate groups of being built,” stated Lesley Gaudry, volunteers.

Community Economic Planning, fundraising and the Development Officer for the Rural work being done on Garden Ridge Municipality of Ritchot. “The Park is made possible by the Garden Ridge Park and the ESAS dedicated volunteers of the Playground Project are two

By Marianne Curtis

different projects organized by two separate committees of dedicated volunteers,” continued Gaudry.

“Both projects are important for the further development and recreation needs of St. Adolphe residents; however the Garden Ridge Park deserves the credit for their park development. They are a fantastic group of folks and deserve the credit for their

August 2016

awesome park plans!”

The St. Adolphe Community Green Space Committee (SCGSC) is responsible for the fundraising and development of the Ecole St. Adolphe School Playground Project, Gaudry clarified. It will be under construction this summer with an anticipated completion in September 2016.

The Garden Ridge Park playground is located in the new development at the north end of St. Adolphe.

The Walking Dead Having better internet is a great thing. It has opened the door to online gaming with my friends and has allowed my family to enjoy watching Netflix. On Netflix, there is a large selection of movies and TV shows that are available to be watched at my, or my family’s convenience. While the children like to watch shows such as Full House and cartoons like SpiderMan, my wife and I have been watching a show called “The Walking Dead.” The Walking Dead is actually a big reason why my wife and I had first subscribed to Netflix and we have fallen in love with the show.

Taking place in the United States the show is about a group of people and how they survived and are surviving an apocalyptic outbreak of undead. Not a great scenario to be sure but with courage, love, daring and yes a lot of luck they struggle through. There are new people that join up with the group from time to time and many that don’t stay too long.

Several things really struck me about the show when I first started watching. One thing that I was pleasantly surprised to find was that the show didn’t have the usual horror jump-scares; you know the ones where you’re watching a lovely scene and BAM a freaky face jumps out at you and screams, thereby making your heart stop and causing you to wet your pants. The show relies more on the psychological aspect of a person’s fear of the undead than on the scares, as the seasons progressed so to do the frequency of the jump– scares. Still, not as bad as a typical horror movie.

Another thing that really struck me about “The Walking Dead” was the way they showcased the different relationships that people had with each other and how each person’s personalities came into play.

I began watching the show with the mind set that if people were thrown into such a horrible ordeal that they would forget their petty differences and band together against the common goal of not becoming a hot meal for a “walker.” Sadly, this is not the case in the show nor do I now think that it would be in real life if this were to happen. A person that is rude, abusive or mean before a zombie outbreak would continue to do so after. A person that is used to being in charge of others or just looking after themselves would keep trying to be the same. There is of course those few that will adapt and adjust to the “new normal” and will improve themselves to survive but it doesn’t seem that all will care to try. Kind of real life actually...

While watching the show my wife and I will often shake our heads at the characters and say to each other, “Why are they doing that? I would have done it this way.” Truth be told, if placed into such horrible circumstances I wonder how we would each fare without the benefit of being able to sit back and contemplate the situation. After all, when a group of seven or eight walkers are coming at you, there is no pause button, there are no bathroom breaks and the only snacks available are you to the walkers should you not keep your head on a swivel and your weapon at the ready. Despite the gross factor and the cold finger of fear sliding down your back as you watch, this is truly a great show, just be careful to not let your children see it and don’t let anyone sneak up behind you while you watch or they may give you a jump-scare of their own.

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

15

16

August 2016

Sprague Prepares for Big Weekend Festival

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

For two days in August, the community of Sprague will be hosting Sprague Fest. Taking place August 6 and 7, this year’s theme is “Christmas in August”.

Festivities kick off at 10 am,

August 6 with a community parade complete with a bicycle-decorating contest for the kids. Tons of children’s activities are planned, including bouncers and face painting for the entire day. There will

also be a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, Lip Sync Battle and dance, an Apple Pie Bake-off, and silent auction. Also planned is a fundraising Auction to raise money for the Sprague Community Centre.

Dawson Trail Dispatch On August 7, everyone is invited to a community pancake breakfast and church service. Admission to all daytime activities is free and camping is available.

Indie Music Festival to Draw Fans to Roseau River

By Marianne Curtis On August 19-21, the tiny community of Roseau River is filled with the sounds of laugher, good times and even better music for the 8th annual Rainbow Trout Music Festival.

Located a few miles south of St. Malo, along Highway #59, the Rainbow Trout Music Festival (RTMF) will be bigger and better than previous years. The annual event is held to promote local Indie music and bring together like minded people three days of music, camping, good friends, bonfires, dancing, swimming, and much more.

The event is also 100% volunteer driven and dedicated to promoting local music and arts.

For the past eight years the RTMF cooperative promotes and

celebrates diversity in local Indie music by hosting the annual festival along with smaller events throughout the year. By including all genres of music the festival offers the opportunity to experience an unmatched cross section of styles available at any single event currently held in Manitoba.

This year ’s event includes performances by twenty artists including Beth, Basic Nature, Mise en Scene, Odanah, Begonia, Pop Tart, Orlando Gloom, Odd Outfit, Peat, Blimp Rock, Well Sister, Leaf Rapids, Palm Trees, Holy Void, Brady Allard, Lanikai, Drag Queens, Weaves, Blonde Goth, Smokey Tiger, William Prince, Mulligrub, Ultra Mega and Heartbeat City.

Full weekend camping passes are sold out, but day passes are still available by visiting rainbowtroutmusicfestival.com.

Help Needed in Identities The Steinbach RCMP are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two males who were involved in an incident, at an apartment complex on Brighton Lane in Steinbach. The incident occurred on June 22. The males appear to be in their late teens or early 20s.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

August 2016

17

Niverville Sets the Bar in Manitoba with Unique Dog Playground

By Marianne Curtis The Niverville Dog Park was the place to be on July 23, when the reclaimed baseball diamond redeveloped into a canine playground was officially opened.

It may have rained but the canine attendees at the park had a ball playing in the first playground of its kind in Manitoba.

Niverville resident Barry Piasta, who, along with several volunteers made his dream for a safe place for dogs to play, off leash, a reality, It was a dog’s day of a celebration when the Niverville Dog Park was officially opened Photos by Marianne Curtis spearheaded the project.

The project has become a reality thanks to the hard work of Barry Piasta, a local dog enthusiast and spay neuter advocate. “The park is the first of its kind,” said Piasta. “It is geared to get people out to do more than just toss a ball with their dog. There are activities that you can do and they let you bond with your

dog in a different way.”

Piasta collected photos and videos of dog parks around the world, then realized Manitoba’s off-leash parks mostly consist of wide-open spaces.

What makes Niverville different are the eleven agility-style stations that include poles, climbs and obstacles including a custom painted fire hydrant. These elements were put together by volunteers and several businesses, who donated time and labour. “A lot of people go to dog parks and I’ll always hear of them going to do these things. But other than letting your dog run loose, there’s no way for you to get involved, other than tossing the ball and stuff,” he said. “This way, people can get involved with their animal. If they like to go through some of these obstacles and bond with their pets, all the much more.”

Fundraising events paid for the playground, and people and businesses in the community have

donated time, resources and money towards making it a reality, Piasta said. However, Piasta himself funded a majority of the project.

“There were many people who said this could not happen here and I wanted to prove them wrong,” Piasta continued. “I have paid for over half of this out of my own pocket, just to get it opened. I hope to recoup that back by continuing to raise funds however I can.

Piasta said the park has attracted a lot of buzz among dog owners in Manitoba, with some even inquiring how they can create something similar in their communities.

“There’s nothing else like it in Manitoba currently, but I’m sure we’ll get some people who will copy it and maybe even do better on it,” he said.

The Niverville Dog Park is located near the Niverville Arena.

Charges Dropped Against Steinbach Man Niverville Mayor Myron Dyck cuts the ribbon for the new park.

Side-By-Side Stolen On July 18, the Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen ATV side by side from a residence in the town of Giroux. The ATV is a 2015 Arctic Cat Wildcat, red in color, and is 700cc, with very low mileage. The theft occurred between 12 pm on July 17 and 1 pm on July 18. The VIN number is 4UF15MPV1FT305926.

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

Charges have been dropped against an 18-year-old Steinbach man who celebrated the killing of three Louisiana police officers, is off the hook in an online community group.

RCMP arrested the Steinbach man after area residents reported comments he posted to the “WOW Steinbach” Facebook page praising the fatal shooting of three officers in Baton Rouge, La., US. “Good.

LOL. Still got over 100 to go. LMFAO,” the post read. “F— the police. LOL. Pricks,” it continued.

As a result, the man was charged with uttering threats.

The man’s lawyer, Phil Cramer, said his client’s comments were stupid and inappropriate, but didn’t violate the Criminal Code. Apparently, the Crown agreed and the charges were dropped. “There’s no criminality in what he did, it’s not contra to the criminal code,” said Cramer. “What he did was stupid, but you don’t put people in jail for being stupid.”

Charges for uttering threats were stayed but the 18-year-old spent almost two days in custody in between making the comments and the hearing Tuesday.

Cramer said he thinks taking the case to court was an “over-reaction” on the part of RCMP after the recent police shootings in the US, which included the July 7 targeted shooting of police at a Black Lives Matter rally in Dallas. “[Police are] nervous, raw and sore because of the shootings, and they’re just like the rest of us, affected by current events,” Cramer said.

18

August 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

COMMUNITY EVENTS EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT TO EDITOR@DAWSONTRAIL.CA OR FAX 204-422-8548

Falcon Lake

Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and Fun Fest - On Friday, August 5 to Sunday, receive Blessed Rose Petals and other August 7. It’s time for us to celebrate our Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’s place of beautiful lake, to meet new friends, and to miracles. Contact Corinna 204-878-4908 or email her at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for see old ones. more info and register.

Biathlon Training Camp – On Saturday, Kleefeld September 17 – Sunday, September 18.

Community Playgroup - For parents, caregivers Swamp Donkey Adventure Race – On and children up to age 5. Activities include Saturday, September 17. Two options, a 9 hr time for playing, stories, songs and snacks. or 18 hr adventure race through the rugged Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at Manitoban wilderness! Teams of three use a the Kleefeld Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough map and compass to navigate an unmarked 204-377-5013. course through the backcountry of eastern Manitoba. Run, paddle and bike to attempt to La Broquerie be the fastest team to reach all checkpoints Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/ before the cut off and make it to the finish line Centre de Santé from Monday - Friday 8:30 where a spectacular awards ceremony, the am - 4 pm. Services and programs for seniors. legendary post race party and a meal fit for a Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, Swamp Donkey awaits! Prohibited are GPS foot care, hair care, transpor tation, home or electronic device (smart phone) with GPS maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, capabilities enabled and Maps other than those E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Contact supplied by the race organizers. Cost 9 hr Community Resource Coordinator Juliette race $515/team or 18 hr race $690/team. To Rowan, 204-424-5285 or see mandatory gear lists and contact to labseinerss@gmail.com. Shopping Trips to swampdonkeyar.com.

Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost Giroux $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Bingo - Every Thursday at Giroux Hall. Doors Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. open at 5 pm, Bingo starts at 7 pm. Hall rental Cost $10. information for Socials, weddings, family functions, Meetings and more please call Lorette Debbie 204-424-5506 or Mike 204-326-6260. New Horizons Seniors - Play cards, Scrabble and more. Drop in Tuesdays 1-5 pm at Foyer Grunthal Notre Dame Lorette 12 St.Amant Ave. Contact Hanover Ag Fair – From Thursday, August 18 Iris 204-878-3552.

– Sunday, August 21 at the Hanover Ag grounds. Star ts at 4 pm on Thursday. Grief Support Group – Begins September on Bullarama, Pancake Breakfast, CWHA Light Saturday mornings in Notre Dame de Lorette Horse, Cow Milking Contest, Petting Zoo & Parish. To provide education about the grieving Pony Rides, AG on the Moove, Family Fun and mourning processes to individuals who Zone & Youth Tent, Paint Bombing, Horse have lost a loved one through death. The format Drawn Wagon Rides, Mainstage Concerts, will be 10 weekly meetings of two hours per MRCA-CCA Rodeo, ‘Party in the Dirt’, Outdoor week and group size will be limited to 6. The Movie, World Famous Chicken BBQ, facilitator will be Maryanne Rumancik who will Gymkhana, Enduro Cross, Arm Wrestling follow the program in Understanding Your Grief: Competition, Demolition Derby, Fireworks and Ten Essential Touchstones for Finding Hope much more. Cost for adult star ts at $12, and Healing Your Heart (book with journal) by Concert Ticket $15 ea, Youth starts at $8 and Dr. Alan Wolfelt. Suggested donation to cover Age 5 and under free. book costs is $45. Registration deadline Monday, September 5. Contact Fr. Charles Fillion G-Town Ball Hockey Tournament – On 204-878-2221 or Maryanne Rumancik 204-878Saturday, August 20 at 12 noon. Minor hockey 3901. Exact meeting time TBA. is having a ball hockey tournament for ages 7 and up Cost $85 team. Register at Grunthal Morris Minor Hockey website.

Communities In Bloom – On Wednesday, August from 6 - 8 pm at the Multi-plex.

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.

Fire Department Fundraiser Golf Tournament On Saturday, September 10 at the Morris Riverview Golf & Country Club. A 9 Hole Best Ball Scramble – Shotgun start. Registration: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm. Cost: $60/Golfer (Includes Green Frees, Golf Cart, Dinner & Gift Bag).

Area Senior Services, Inc. - Helping Seniors enjoy their independence for as long as possible. Serving Morris, Lowe Farm and Ile-des-Chênes Youth Drop In Programs – Until August 26 on Rosenort. Contact Resource Coordinator Cheryl Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 2 - 8 D. Waldner, 204-746-6336, mass@mts.net. pm at the Arena. Programs 5 days a week.

Encouraging fun filled activity, games and Niverville spor ts. Skateboarding, hockey, soccer, Kinder Camp – From Monday, August 15 – basketball and obstacle courses for 17 and Friday, August 19 at 8 am in Hespeler Park. under. Children under 12 must be accompanied Focuses on having fun and engaging kids in by parent or guardian. learning and growth with a variety of games, crafts, and music and prepare to get a little Story Time in Pyjamas - Every Thursday wet! For ages 3 – 6. Cost $75. evening at the Ritchot Library Ecole Regional Gabrielle-Roy at 6:30 pm. Ages 2-8 however The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club – Meets all ages are welcome. every Monday at 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to become a better 50+ Programs - At the Trans Canada Centre speaker, run meetings that are more effective Indoor Walking - Mondays, Wednesday and or develop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Friday 9 – 10 am Club is the place to star t. Contact Sheryl Yoga - Monday 10 -11 am Berglund, Sberglund4@shaw.ca.

Coffee Talk - Wednesday 10 - 11 am Block Therapy - Tuesday 10 - 11 am GriefShare - If you or someone you know has Water Colour Painting – Thurs 10-11:30 am experienced the loss of a loved one we wish to Line Dancing - Thursday 7 - 8 pm help, you get suppor t and learn about the Floor Curling - Friday 10 am – 12 pm grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to Contact to register Mary Ann 204-339-6141 register or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com. vintageclub@transcanadacentre.com.

Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets up to age six. Wednesday mornings from 9:30 on the first Saturday of every month, at 6:30 - 11:30 am located in the lower level of Fourth pm to recite the Rosary and learn about Our Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.) Free

Dawson Trail Dispatch

drop-in program with coffee and snacks Explore life as it was in the early days. Free provided, along with a large open space for the Admission Donations Accepted. Contact 204kids to play while the moms visit. Contact Karen 437-2210, 204-437-2209 or 204-437-4686. at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com.

Paradise Village Paradise Squares Dance Club - New season on Tuesday, September 13 at 7 pm with a Start-Up Dance at the Paradise Village Rec. Hall. Modern Square Dancing is fun and a great social activity.

Dancing is Tuesday evenings from 7 – 9:30 pm.

Start-Up Dance is free for beginners and new dancers. Couples and singles are welcome.

Coffee and doughnuts will be served. Contact Larry 204-422-5424.

Prawda Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool down and stretch exercises.

Wear comfortable clothing, clean runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondays and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact Wendy 204-348-2433.

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

Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

Richer Roughstock Rodeo – From Friday, August 5 – Sunday, August 7 at Dawson Trail Park. Begins with Pancake Breakfast at 8 am in the Richer Young at Hear ts Club. Followed by parade, music, beer gardens, Family Fun Zone, Draws and Raffles, Intermission Shows, Giant Trading Post, Pony Rides, Petty Zoo and more. Friday night Bullnanza and Rodeo Social. Saturday, August 6, Mainstage Live “The Ryan Keown Band”, 2015 MCMA Winner Single of the Year.

Saturday and Sunday Rodeo. One-day, Twoday or Three-day passes available. Contact Pat 204-422-6972.

Richer Recovery AA - Group meets Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall in Richer.

Contact Paul at 204-422-7673.

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

Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to be on premises and must play bingo.

Doors Open at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC License # BI/ BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 or doreen@spmf.ca.

Kingdom School – From Thursday, August 18 – Sunday, August 21 at Chevalier de Colomb Bldg, 132 Centrale Ave. at 1 pm or 7 pm daily.

Taught by Matthew Morton from Australia and Kevin Penner owner of Cedarwood Retreat St. Adolphe.

Youth Drop In Programs – Until August 26 on Centre in Pinawa organized by Lorraine Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 am -4 pm at Peladeau of Mitchell. All are free but offerings the Arena. Programs, 5 days a week. accepted. Contact 204-371-6657.

Encouraging fun filled activity, games and spor ts. Skateboarding, hockey, soccer, Community Garage Sale - On Saturday, basketball and obstacle courses for 17 and September 10. If you would like to take part in under. Children under 12 must be this year’s community garage sale and have your sale listed on the map contact or text accompanied by parent or guardian.

Patricia at 204-290-5336 or Ritchot Senior Services - Summer Office pmcpherson@hotmail.ca with your address Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and hours of operation. from 9 am- noon at 457 Main Street. Contact 204 883-2880, Ritchotseniors@mymts.net. International Cooking Classes - On the third Walking Club: Travelling all around St. Wednesday of the month from 6 - 8:30 pm.

Adolphe for approximately 40-45 minutes and Learn to cook authentic and original foods from then finishing up with some stretching on the Columbia, India, Iraq, Philippines and Bolivia.

Pre-register with the Town of Ste. Anne at deck with Janice.

Coffee talk: On Wednesdays. Join us for 204-422-5293 or email town@steannemb.ca. coffee talk outside on the deck, weather permitting. Enjoy coffee or tea, catch up with Ste. Anne Cultural Committee - Invites artists a friend, or perhaps challenge someone to a of all kinds to their weekly open houses at 112 game of ladder ball, lawn dar ts, bocce, a Centrale Ave. on Tuesdays from 9 - 11:30 am round of disc washer toss or game of beanbag and Wednesdays from 7 - 8:30 pm. These gatherings are to bring artists together to work toss. Guaranteed laughs.

Foot care: Clinic on Wednesday in Lorette, on and discuss their craft and there is no cost by appointment only. To reserve in St. to attend. Contact Diane at 204-422-9599 or Adolphe, Ste.Agathe, Ile-des-Chenes or email cccsa@mymts.net.

Lorette contact Janice 204-883-2880. Every 6 weeks Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse visits Seine River Services for Seniors – Services each location and provides foot care to help and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair keep your feet feeling happy. care, transportation, home maintenance, yard Weekly Bingo – On Tuesday nights at the St. maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, Adolphe Community Club. Doors open at 6 puzzles and games. Shopping Trips to pm, 6:55 pm - Speedo Game, 7 pm - Early Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday Bird Games, 7:30 pm - Regular Games. We of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost hope to see you there! Proceeds will support $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 the Community Club. pm. Cost $10. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator St. Malo local services or e-mail Sponge Puck Hockey – On Wednesdays at for 8 pm at the arena. Come out and play for labseinerss@gmail.com. fun. Contact Gilles 204-347-5079.

Ste. Geneviève

St. Pierre-Jolys

Camp Entrepreneur – Mardi, Aout 9 – Vendredi, Aout 12, 9 am – 4 pm et Samedi, Aout 13, 9 am – 3 pm. Youth 9-13 yrs. Cost $100. Apprendre au sujet des affaires, créer un produit et le vendre au Marché quelle occasion. Au Camp entrepreneur, tu apprendras comment devenir entrepreneur et comment faire de l’argent.

Tu t’amuseras pendant une semaine remplie d’activités intéressantes et amusantes.

Sarto Commemoration 125 Years of Ukrainians in Contact Jenna Gilmore 204-746-6180, Canada – On Sunday, August 21 join the student@cftripler.ca. community organizations of the Sarto/Pansy area. Begins with simultaneous services of Step Aerobics with Weights - On Tuesday thanks at 10 am at the St. Peter & Paul Ukrainian and Thursday at 7 pm, at the ICSP School Or thodox Church and at the St. Michael’s Gym. Contact Stephanie 204-320-2667, Ukrainian Catholic Church followed by a joint Louise 204-433-3839 or The Health Corner Panachyda memorial remembrance service on 204-433-3891. the grounds of the Catholic Church. A free community BBQ begins at Noon – 3 pm on the Diabetes Educational Resource Centre – On grounds of the Willow Plain Municipal Heritage 2nd Thursday of the month from 1:30 - 3:30 School and the Sar to Community Hall. Bring pm at the DeSalaberry District Health Centre.

Contact 204-346-6254. your lawn chair. Everyone is welcome!

South Junction Victory Campaign – From Monday, August 8 – Friday, August 12 at 7 pm in the Ball Park.

Guest Speakers Allan O Soup Ray Cornish and special music Danny Vogt (he has played in Nashville!) and friends. Come and expect great things to happen! Free Camping Contact 204 437 3250.

Sprague Annual Sprague Fest and Community Centre Fundraiser – From Saturday, August 6 – Sunday, August 7. Celebrate 2016 Theme Christmas in August. Saturday Parade Registration 9 -10 am, Pancake Breakfast 8 – 10 am. 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament ($40 per team) from 9:30 am 8:30 pm, Apple Pie Bake Off, Beer Gardens, Consignment Auction, Kids Activities, Bingo followed by Lip Sync Battle & Dance at 8 pm, cost $10. Prizes for best dressed and lip-sync.

On Sunday, church service, Rainbow Auction Tickets sold all day Saturday and draw at Noon on Sunday. Camping available. Contact for Christmas Themed Parade registration Patt jplo@mymts.net. Basketball tournament contact Tom 204-437-2334. Auction items still needed contact Doris 204-437-2210 or Email dorishovorka@hotmail.com.

Sprague & District Historical Museum - Open by appointment from June – September 30.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression, bipolar, post par tum mood disorders support group meetings held on the last Monday of each month at 7 pm at the Chalet Malouin boardroom. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital.

Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Centre on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 - 8 pm, brings a large selection of books in both French and English, for children and adults. Special requests can be made to the librarian, bibliotachelibrary.com or in person. Come for a visit and see what we are all about.

Steinbach Summer Page to Film Nights – On Thursdays, August 4, 11, 18 and 25. This month is “Madagascar 2: Escape 2 Africa”, “Kung Fu Panda 2”, “Arctic Tale” and “Legend of the Guardians”, from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Free Admission! Free Popcorn!

Annual Plowing Match - On Saturday, August 6 at 9 am the South East Manitoba Draft Horse Association annual Plowing Match. Directions: 1 mile west of Steinbach on Hwy 52, 1/2 mile north on Keating Rd. Draft horse and vintage tractors. Free admission, lunch available.

Contact Harold 204-326-2836 or John 204346-4323.

Summer Reading Club Register – Annual Summer Reading Club in-person registration and library membership is required. Special membership offer available $10 for the summer for non-resident families. Until Friday, August 19. Various craft classes available at registration. Space is limited. Please sign up in advance in person. Windup event is on Ste. Agathe CDI Golf Tournament - On Saturday, August Tuesday, August 23. Contact Madison Friesen 13. To register contact Claude Lemoine at (Program Coordinator) 204-326-6841. clemoine@mymts.net.

2016 Power Smart Manitoba Summer Games Youth Drop In Programs – Until August 26 on – From Sunday, August 7 – Saturday, August Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 am - 4 pm at 13. Volunteer to have fun, to experience a the Arena. Programs, 5 days a week. great time and to participate in the province’s Encouraging fun filled activity, games and largest ongoing multi-sport program. Looking spor ts. Skateboarding, hockey, soccer, for 1,000 volunteers to welcome kids ages 10 basketball and obstacle courses for 17 and - 17 from across the province. It is a great under. Children under 12 must be opportunity to meet new people, build a sense of community and gain experience. There are accompanied by parent or guardian. various volunteer opportunities; something for Taekwondo - Every Tuesday and Thursday everyone. Volunteer registration at from 6:15 - 7:30 pm at Ecole Sainte Agathe manitobagames.ca. Come join in the fun. Dream hosted by Kang’s Taekwondo Academy. Cost it! Live it! Contact the Games Office at 204or $40/month. Family rates available. Contact 371-1212 Jason Barnabe, jason.barnabe@gmail.com steinbach2016@sportmanitoba.ca. or 204-802-3458.

Kid-Netic Energy Science & Engineering Summer Day Camp – From Monday, August Ste. Anne Ste Anne Prayer Group Event - Supernatural 15 – Friday, August 19 at 4 pm at Southwood

Dawson Trail Dispatch School. Cost $100. This year’s theme days include At the Heart of Science, Marine Biology, Construction, Plants & Fungi and Forensic Science.

Register today at wisekidneticenergy.ca, and join the fun! enVision Community Living 60th Anniversary Event

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities! apar tments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca.

MS Lunch Group- On 4th Thursday of every month, from 12 – 1 pm at All D’s Restaurant 320 Main Street. Contact Stephanie Bevacqua 2 0 4 - 9 8 8 - 0 9 0 4 , enVision Community Living 60th Anniversary Stephanie.Bevacqua@mssociety.ca.

Event – On Saturday, August 20 from 5 – 9 pm at AD Penner Park. Join us to celebrate our Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba 60th Anniversary! Food, entertainment, and individual and support groups - for persons fun for all ages. experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder and other mental health/ Eastman Safety Upcoming Programs: Located emotional concerns. Meets on the first at 385 Loewen Blvd. Register online at Wednesday of each month at Jake Epp Library eastmansafety.ca or contact 1-204-371-1595. from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn 204-4445228.

Eastman Immigrant Services - Many events and activities to support and help you make The Bethesda Regional Healthcare Auxiliary new friends. Start to make this community meets on the first Tuesday of every month feel like your home. Volunteer to help at our except for the months of July and August at community events. To register contact 204- the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone 346-6609, lois@eastmanis.com. interested in auxiliary work. Contact Verna Upcoming Events: Cultures in the Kitchen - Thiessen at 326-3028.

Submit your recipe. Help us create an amazing ethnic cookbook.

Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the Let’s Chat – Informal conversation group that second and fourth Wednesdays of every month meets every Wednesday 1:30 – 2:30 pm. at the Magnolia Restaurant. Contact 204-326Pronunciation Skills – Intermediate 2313.

Pronunciation on Monday and Wednesday from 5 – 7 pm. Advanced Pronunciation on Carillon Toastmasters - meetings are open to Monday and Wednesday from 7 – 9 pm at D4- adults who want to improve their leadership 284 Reimer Ave. Classes are free. and communication skills. Thursdays at 7 pm Hip Hop – Every Tuesday for youth ages 8-15. at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, Contact Sheryl at 204-326-7628 or Irene Mommies Group at Kidzone - On Wednesdays, at 204-424-5737. from 9 am - 1 pm. Come by to meet other moms to chat with and get your kids to make Al-Anon Program – Meets on Mondays at 7:30 some new friends. Cost $7, free coffee. pm at the Cultural Ar ts Centre back door, downstairs. Contact Lloyd 204-326-4365.

Creativi-Tea Time - Need to relax and have some you time? Give adult colouring a try.

Al-Anon 12 Step Recovery Group - Meets on Event runs the second Wednesday of every Wednesdays at 7:30 pm at United Church, month, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp 541 Main St, front door, ring doorbell. All are Library. Come and go as it suits you. We’ll welcome. provide basic supplies including tea and coffee.

Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group Games Day & Games Night – Every 1st starts at 4:30 pm at Steinbach Family Resource Saturday from 12 – 5 pm every month and 3rd Centre B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact 204-346-0413.

Wednesday every month from 6 – 8:30 pm, at the Jake Epp Library. Come down to play Tolstoi strategy games. Bring a friend, your strategies Prairie Day – On Saturday, August 13 at the and games. Test your skills and have fun. Prairie Shore Interpretive Trail, 3 km east of Ages 14 and up unless accompanied by an Tolstoi on PR 209 beginning at 10 am. Learn adult.

Contact 204-326-6841, about wildflowers that smell like chocolate, programs@jakeepplibrary.com. grasses that grow taller than most adults, the amazing life of some of the smallest insects, Canadian Legion - On 1st Tuesday every month mysterious mushrooms that pop up at 8 pm and Ladies Auxiliary meets 1st Monday unexpectedly and orchid research. Guided of each month at 7:30 pm at the Steinbach walks, bug hunting, and bannock baking. OnLegion Community Hall, 294 Lumber Ave. site BBQ lunch, cash only. Contact Christie at 204-425-3229 or tgpphq@mymts.net.

Adult Book Club - Tuesdays from 7 – 9 pm.

Bring book suggestions or peruse our book Vassar lists. Meet some other book lovers too and Annual Baseball Tournament Fundraiser - From bring a friend. At the Jake Epp Library 255 Saturday, is August 20 – Sunday, August 21.

Elmdale St. Contact Tracey Pankratz 204-326- Saturday is slo-pitch, 7 men, and 3 women.

6841 programming@jakeepplibrary.com. $200 entry fee 1st place is $1,000. Sunday is fastball, $150 entry fee. Contact Duane Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the Boutang at 204-437-3173 or United Church of Steinbach, 541 Main St. duane@boutang.ca. Pool is open, showers Registration for girls 5-17. Develop personal available and free camping. Food, values and well-being, self-respect and respect refreshments and kid’s entertainment. Cost for others; promote fun, friendship, adventure $4 gate fee per day, kids under 12 free. A and challenges through new experiences; great weekend to help raise funds for the develop leadership and decision-making skills; Community Recreation Centre. give service to the community; value the natural environment.

Woodridge Green Drinks South Eastman - South Eastman Transition Initiative presents Green Drinks South Eastman. On the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 7 pm at Lecoka, 8B - Brandt Street.

Drop in and discuss sustainable living. Contact rebecca_hiebert@yahoo.com.

T.O.P.S -Taking Off Pounds Sensibly - On the second Wednesday of every month at the Community Club. For club hours of operation, contact Stan 204-429-2253.

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

Monday at noon except when Monday falls on a long weekend at the Chicken Chef, 365 Main General Street, visitors are welcome. Contact Cornie Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of at 326-3155.

Winnipeg- Begins again on Tuesday, September 13 from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Join Mental Health Information and Suppor t us for a great day of fun and friendship. Visit sessions - for family and friends of people McPhillips Street Station in the morning and with mental health issues are held the 2nd Club Regent in the afternoon. Starting at 8:30 Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at am, pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and the Eden East building, 21 Loewen Blvd.

Paradise Village. Must be 18 years of age or Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email older. Prizes and cash giveaways every trip. eastmanmss@mts.net Bingo played on the bus to and from the casinos for those wishing to play. Bi-monthly overnight MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for trips to South Beach Casino and Folklorama people living with multiple sclerosis. The group trips are also available, amazing prices on meets on the second Thursday evening of these trips so call for details. Contact Marilyn each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place at 204-326-4939 for information and to reserve your seat.

August 2016

19

Prairie Day at the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve The Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve will be hosting its annual Prairie Day event on Saturday, August 13, 2016 at the Prairie Shore Interpretive Trail, located three kilometres east of Tolstoi on Provincial Road 209.

Learn about wildflowers that smell like chocolate, prairie grasses that grow taller than most adults and the amazing life cycle of some of the smallest insects. Other featured presentations will highlight those mysterious mushrooms that pop up unexpectedly and the complexity of small white lady’s slipper research.

These are just a few examples of topics covered at Prairie Day this year. The Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre, Nature Conservancy of Canada – Manitoba Region and Native Orchid Conservation Inc., will treat visitors to displays.

Borrow a bug net or bring your own and go on a bug hunt with an amazing entomologist. Take in a guided walk to learn about the many wildflowers in bloom and how prairie plants survive our harsh climate.

Visitors can also pick up a roasting stick and enjoy freshly baked bannock. Children can do a scavenger hunt, go critter catching or get their face painted. Take on the Tall Grass Trivia Challenge and you might win a prize.

Admission for the day is $5 per adult and no charge for children.

Activities will begin at 10 am and wrap up at 3:30 pm. An on-site canteen will be open from 10:30 am until 3 pm. A BBQ lunch will be available from 11:30 am - 2 pm, please note, only cash is accepted at this event. Picnic tables and rustic washrooms are also available onsite.

Please bring a lawn chair or blanket, sunscreen and insect repellent.

Trail conditions may be wet so rubber boots or a change of footwear is suggested. All Prairie Day activities will take place rain or shine.

The establishment of the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve in 1989 secured some of the largest and highest quality parcels of tall grass prairie remaining in the province. Shortly after securement by Nature Manitoba (formerly Manitoba Naturalist Society) and Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation, seasonal Critical Wildlife Habitat Program staff began inventory efforts to document the various floral and faunal species occurring on these acquisitions. With the addistion of the Nature Conservancy of Canada to the Preserve partnership, the Preserve has grown in size to nearly 6,000 hectares. The list of species identified on the Preserve has also increased. To date, nearly 1,000 species have been documented for the area, several of which are considered rare and have been listed under the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA) and/or the Manitoba Endangered Species and Ecosystems Act (MB-ESEA).

The Preserve also provides habitat for many provincially rare species, some of which have very limited distributions.

The annual Prairie Day coincides when prairie grasses are at their peak and wildflowers in bloom. The unique Day was established to give the public an opportunity to experience the diverse and amazing flora and fauna of the tall grass ecosystem.

In addition, guest speakers, experts in their field of study, give a short informal presentation on a topic relating to the tall grass prairie then answer questions from the audience. Over the more than 20 years that the event has taken place, topics have ranged from prairie restoration efforts and techniques to survey efforts for specific species (e.g.

Breeding Bird Atlas) as well as featuring a particular group of species such as spiders, bats, frogs and bears, to name but a few.

For more information on this event, contact Christie at the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve at 204-4253229 or tgpphq@mymts.net.

20

August 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

La Broquerie Fire Chief Island Bound for STARS

By Marianne Curtis On September 16, La Broquere Fire Department Fire Chief Alain Nadeau was one of eight Manitoba community leaders who will shed their business attire for flight suits, and climb on board the STARS air ambulance helicopter for a unique mission.

The group will be dropped off by helicopter on a remote island in Manitoba where they will have nothing but their sense of adventure, enthusiasm and a list of phone numbers. They will need the public’s support to help raise $50,000 each before STARS rescues them.

For the past thirty seven years, Nadeau has been a volunteer firefighter in La Broquerie eleven of these as Fire Chief. “I’ve seen a lot of trauma on our roads, in our fields, in our homes over the years,” Nadeau said. “I often reflect on some of the past tragic incidents and can’t help but think that if STARS would have been available, how many of those lives could have been saved.”

As a fire chief in charge of an accident scene, Nadeau said there is no greater feeling than seeing the red helicopter land as you’re about to pull a patient out of a mangled car. “At that point, you know that you’ve done your best to make sure that the patient receives the best.”

The group will also participate in a variety of challenges on the island to help secure their escape.

Rescue On The Island is the flagship fundraising event for STARS in Manitoba. The event has raised over $750,000 in the past three years to support the work of STARS. STARS air ambulance is dedicated to providing safe, rapid, highly specialized emergency medical transport system for the critically ill and injured, operating from bases in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta.

Since 1985, STARS has responded to more than 30,000 emergencies.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Festival Celebrates 125 Years of Ukrainians in Canada

By Marianne Curtis The Ukrainian Museum and Village Society Inc. from Gardenton celebrated the 125 anniversary of Ukrainians in Canada. The one-day event took place July 9 as part of the Gardenton Ukrainian Museum and Village Society Ukrainian Festival.

The Saturday program kicked off with Panakyda at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Stuartburn followed by Panakdyda at the Historic St. Michaels Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Gardenton. Then a joint Molebin took place at the Gardenton Museum Festival site, followed by a commemorative dinner at noon.

The Zoloto Ukrainian Dancers, the Zvizda Ukrainian Dancers, the Susydka Dancers and the Hyrniuks performed traditional dances in the afternoon.

The weekend ended with a dinner and dance at the museum grounds.

Ten-year-old Zenon Horbec from Caliento was one of the many performers to take to the stage during the celebrations.

Summer Fest in Ste. Agathe is Family Fun

By Marianne Curtis Families looking for a fun family weekend flocked to Ste. Agathe on July 15 and 16 for this year ’s Cheyenne Summer Fest.

The Cheyenne Summer Fest boasted a great parade, delicious pancake breakfast, live musical performances, family baseball tournament, tons of family fun and kids activities. Friday night was jam packed with laughs and good times as The Cheyenne Pioneer Games made its reappearance. The night was capped off with fireworks.

After a second day of family activities, the weekend ended with live music by SouthTown 4 and Midnight Grind featuring Grant and Nazeem.

St.Philip Minh Lion Dancers, one of the live performances at the Ste. Agathe Cheyenne Summer Fest.

Spectators line the streets of St. Agathe for the annual parade.

Photos by Marianne Curtis

Landmark Friendship Festival Returns La Broquerie Fire Chief Alain Nadeau has seen first hand the value of having STARS in Manitoba.

Arts Council AGM this Month On August 24, the Steinbach Arts Council is hosting their annual general meeting. The meeting is taking place at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre, on 304 Second Street, starting at 8 pm.

The agenda includes the reports from the chairperson, creative officer, financial report and presentation of future plans and project.

Board member elections will also be taking place that evening. All members receive one vote.

The Steinbach Arts Council is entering its 38th year of operation.

By Marianne Curtis After a one-year hiatus, the Landmark Friendship Festival is once again on the agenda for the month of August.

Kicking of August 12 and ending August 14, the weekend will start with Redneck Night, taking place at Keating Mechanical. The evening will include lawnmower races, Redneck Adventures, Hot Dog road and a performance by Quinton Blair.

Saturday’s activities kick off with a pancake breakfast at the community park, followed by a parade, vendor and craft market, hot dog lunch and Kids Playland.

Entertainment includes performances from Folklarama including Spain, Croatia, Trinidad and Tobago. Comedian Matt Falk will also take to the stage. Afterwards there will be a community BBQ supper, dance and fireworks.

On Sunday, the community will

gather once again at the Archie Plett Park for a worship service followed by a lunch provided by all the churches in Landmark.

Last year the festival was cancelled after the previous founder and organizer of the event stepped down from the position due to lack of volunteer commitment.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

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, pay us a visit, and consider participating in some of our programs. Drop by the Centre Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. For more information call the Centre at 204-320-4600 or go to patporteralc.com.

Rentals and Functions: Book your next function at Pat Porter Active Living Centre.

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

Up Coming Events: Please come by the Centre to pick up our newsletter for full details on all upcoming events.

Birthday Party: On first Wednesday of the month – August 3 and September 7 at 2 – 3 pm. Cost $2 for guests and free for those celebrating their birthday.

Potluck: On Thursday, August 11 at 6 pm. Cost $6. Please bring a Salad, Casserole or Dessert. If you know, you are coming please call a week in advance so we can prepare the appropriate quantity of meat.

Entertainment will be Bingo. Contact Lynda at 204-320-4603 to register and for more information.

Back to Nature Nordic Hiking Club – Every Thursday until September 1.

August 4 - Topic is Search + Rescue with the RCMP presenting. Walking trail will be “Abe’s Hill” (LA Barkman Park).

August 11 -Topic is Forest Fire Prevention with Woodridge Fire Dept. presenting. Walking trail will be at A.D. Penner Park.

August 18 - Topic is Rain Gardens with Seine Rat River Conservation District presenting. Walking trail will at Bush Farm Trail. Contact Carrie at

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

204-320-4604 to register and for more information.

Lunch Available: From Monday through Friday. Cost $6. Contact 204320-4605 by 9 am to reserve your meal. Purchase your meal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon.

Monthly menus are available at the office, online, or in the newsletter.

Bring a friend!

Beltone Hearing Clinic: Third Friday of the month. Call 1-800-6612653 to book your appointment.

Foot Care Clinic: Foot care is available the first Tuesday and Wednesday of every month and the third Tuesday and Thursday of every month. Call the centre to book your appointment.

Note – occasionally programs are cancelled due to special events.

Please contact the Centre for confirmation of programs times and date.

Regular Activities: Choir will be starting in October – details to follow.

Drop in Billiards: Monday - Friday 12 – 4 pm.

Computer Classes: Not offered in July and August.

Cards: 1 pm - 4 pm. Monday – Canasta, Wednesday - Cribbage; Thursday – Whist.

Tai Chi: On Monday evenings at 7 pm and Wednesday mornings at 10 am.

Pickleball: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays 9 am – Noon and on Monday, from 1 – 4 pm.

Floor Curling: On Wednesdays 1:30 – 4 pm.

Floor Shuffle: On Tuesdays 1:30 – 4 pm.

Old Time Band Practice: Not offered in July and August.

Model Railway Project: Monday Friday from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.

Beltone Hearing Clinic: Third Friday of the month. Call 1-800-6612653 to book your appointment.

Note – occasionally programs are cancelled due to special events.

Contact the Centre for confirmation of programs times and date.

Help Us Out We are in need of certain tasks over the summer months as some of our Volunteers who help all year are in need of a well-deserved break. If you have some time available we could use your help.

Meals on Wheels and Kitchen Help - The Kitchen is in need of some extra hands preparing meals during the summer months and drivers for the Meals on Wheels program.

Flower Beds and Lawn Maintenance – We are looking for volunteers to help us with our flowerbeds and lawn maintenance.

Even if you can only help out 1 or 2 times in the season it, all helps and is greatly appreciated.

Membership at Pat Porter Active Living Centre - is only $25 per year.

Memberships are due in January of each year. After January, memberships can be bought at $30.

August 2016

21

Membership is 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.

Volunteer with us – we could use volunteers in many different areas.

Whatever your skill set or age, we have a place for you. Contact Lynda at 204-320-4603 for more info or the centre at 204-320-4600.

22

August 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

A Deadly Summer Combo Water and electricity are a dangerous mix because water is an excellent conductor of electricity.

With swimmers enjoying backyard pools, kids playing with garden hoses, summer rains, and outdoor yard projects underway, the opportunities for water and electricity to mix are numerous. Injuries and fatalities do happen.

Take a moment to teach your family how to avoid the deadly hazard of electrocution: - Keep electrical appliances away from water at all times. Don’t have a radio or phone charger near the pool for example.

- Never touch electrical cords, switches, or appliances when you are wet, standing in water or have wet hands.

- If an electrical cord or appliance falls into the water do not try to retrieve it or pull the plug until you turn off the power at the main switch.

- If you are using electrical tools, appliances or cords, keep them away from wet or damp areas including the grass or deck.

- Outdoor electrical equipment should only be used if a certified electrician has installed a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).

- Sump pumps, power washers and wet/dry vacuums should only be used on grounded outlets.

- Have a licensed electrical contractor install and maintain your pool wiring, underwater lighting and upgrade protection equipment.

Visit hydro.mb.ca/safety to find out more information about pool safety.

Whatever You Do to Keep Cool this Summer, Don’t “Fire Up” Your Air Conditioner!

Are you using a window or room air conditioner to keep cool? Make sure you don’t make your space hotter by starting a fire! Never use a portable air conditioner with an extension cord. An air conditioner is a heavy energy user. Extension cords are not designed to handle such a heavy load. They can (and do!) overheat and cause fires in the home. Rather than using an extension cord, have an electrician install a new outlet for your portable air conditioner.

Choose a room air conditioner that is exactly the size you need. If it’s too small, it won’t cool adequately on hot days. If it’s too big, it may switch on and off without cooling your room uniformly or dehumidifying the space properly. Additionally, it will use more energy and cost you more to operate.

While choosing the right model of air conditioner for your space is important, it is just as important to use your air conditioner wisely. Select the warmest temperature setting that still allows you to remain comfortable.

Keep your blinds and curtains drawn during the day to limit heat gain.

Are Your Trees Making You Vulnerable to Hazard? Time to trim?

Trees add beauty, shade and value to our homes but it’s important for homeowners to keep their trees from growing too close to power lines and other electrical equipment. Here’s why: - Tree limbs that come down during storms or high winds can bring power lines down with them. Not only does this cause a power outage, it creates a severe safety hazard by bringing live power lines to the ground.

- Tree branches that touch power lines can also cause a fire and could electrocute anyone who touches the tree.

Before trimming or removing a tree: - Check the area for power lines. Keep yourself, your equipment and all parts of the tree at least three metres away from the power line.

- If you have a tree growing into the power lines, don’t attempt to prune or remove it yourself. Trees are conductors of electricity and a shock could be fatal.

- Only qualified tree trimmers are permitted to trim trees that are near power lines. They use special tools and bucket trucks that do not conduct electricity.

- If any part of the tree or hedge is within three metres of a power line, call Manitoba Hydro.

Before planting a tree or shrub: Tree trimming safety should actually begin during the planning stages of your landscaping. Before you plant, look up. If it appears that your tree will eventually hit an overhead power line, find a location that will not cause problems in the future.

See Right Tree – Right Place at hydro.mb.ca for help to plan your yard and make good long-term landscaping decisions. If you see a tree that is too close to a power line, report it to Manitoba Hydro at 204-480-5900 or toll-free 1-888-624-9376.

Summer Storms Bring Down Power Lines While they can be fun to watch, summer storms and the intense wind and hail they can bring with them can wreak havoc on trees and power lines. Contact with a downed power line can be fatal.

Discuss these life-saving tips with your family: - A downed power line is dangerous and should be treated as an emergency.

If you see a downed power line, call 911 immediately.

- The air, the ground, as well as objects and water around a downed power line can be electrified and could cause electrocution. To be safe, stay a minimum of 10 metres away from a downed power line – about the length of a bus.

- Never, try to move a downed power line out of your way using any type of object. This could result in serious injury or death.

- After reporting a downed power line, warn others to stay away. Also, stay clear of low or sagging power lines. Travelling under or near these, lines can be dangerous.

If you are in a vehicle accident that is in contact with a downed power line, follow these steps: - Stay where you are as it may be dangerous to exit the vehicle.

- Back the vehicle well away from contact with the line if it’s safe to do so.

- Call 911 and warn others to stay clear of the power line.

If it is not safe for you to stay in the vehicle due to fire or other immediate danger, do not simply step out of the vehicle as your body can make a path for electricity to the ground, electrocuting you. Exit the vehicle by following these steps: - Keep your feet together.

- Hold your arms tightly at your sides.

- Jump without touching the vehicle and ground at the same time.

- With your feet together, shuffle or hop away from the downed line.

To learn more about electrical safety, visit hydro.mb.ca/safety.

When Preparing for Harvest Plan to Avoid Contact with Overhead Wires Farm injuries can have devastating effects, both emotionally and economically, to producers and their families. And most injuries are predictable and preventable when people know what to look for and how to minimize farm hazards.

Keep everyone who works on your farm safe. Discuss these safety tips: - Any physical or equipment contact with overhead power lines could result in severe injury or death.

- Even non-metallic materials like lumber, tires, ropes, and hay, could conduct electricity if they are damp.

- A fallen power line or the electricity flowing into the ground around either equipment or a person in accidental contact with the line could electrocute someone standing nearby.

- Help prevent unnecessary power outages and hazards around your property: have a qualified contractor trim or remove trees that could interfere with your power lines.

- The height of a power line can change depending on the temperature outside, the load it’s carrying, and whether it is windy or calm. Cultivators and air seeders are at high risk for contact with overhead power lines.

Plan your route. If you can’t avoid passing under a power line, proceed cautiously and check constantly to make sure your machinery is a safe distance away from the power line.

- Never, attempt to move a power line out of the way. Only properly trained and equipped Manitoba Hydro employees can safely lift power lines.

- Never, transport metal elevators, ladders or irrigation pipes near power lines. Farm equipment is a good conductor of electricity and a power line can flash or arc at a considerable distance even without direct contact to the power line. If your equipment or load exceeds 15 feet 9 inches or 4.8 metres, obtain an agricultural move permit from Manitoba Hydro.

- If you have overhead power lines on your farm, consider burying them.

Manitoba Hydro’s Go Underground Program compensates a portion of the costs related to moving the primary power line underground in farmyards.

Visit hydro.mb.ca to find out more information about farm safety and our Go Underground Program.

August 2016

23

Blumenort Sees Rash of Garage and Vehicle Break-Ins On July 13 Steinbach RCMP received, numerous reports of garage and vehicle break ins including one camper trailer.

These incidents occurred primarily in the town of Blumenort. A garage break in the City of Steinbach had a similar method of entry and is believed to be related. The incidents occurred overnight from July 12 and all discovered in the morning of July 13. A motorcycle helmet valued at $350 and a 26” Insignia TV were among the items removed.

Steinbach RCMP is also requesting the public’s assistance in solving multiple related mischiefs, which occurred sometime between the evening of Monday, July 18 and the morning of Tuesday, July 19 in Blumenort. The culprits went through several vehicles in the area.

Steinbach RCMP cautions all homeowners to remain vigilant by ensuring that residences, outbuildings and vehicles remain locked and secure at all times.

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

St. Malo Closes Museum It was not an easy decision, but the St. Malo Chamber of Commerce has decided to close the St. Malo Museum.

“This was a very hard decision but it has been difficult to keep the museum operational with the amount of work and repairs needed,” explained Chamber President Agnes Gooselin. “We have tried to source grants to assist us with the many projects that need to get done there, but unfortunately, we did not qualify for any.”

The Chamber is grateful to their sole volunteer Edmee Gosselin.

Gosselin announced earlier this year, that she would be retiring. Six years ago, the St. Malo Museum committee consisted of five volunteers.

However, each year since, the committee has lost a member until finally only Gosselin remained. “Our town needs young volunteers with fresh ideas,” she said. “We have lost too many important events like our multicultural festival. People will go elsewhere to spend their money and that hurts our town’s economy.”

Last summer, the museum hired two summer students under the Manitoba Métis Federation summer student program and under the Service Canada summer student job program.

During August, the museum will be opened for one day, where community members can come and pick up donated items. The time and date will be posted locally in August.

24

August 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Complex Planning in Lorette Reaches Final Stages

By Marianne Curtis

Concept drawings of the proposed Lorette Community Complex.

The RM of Tache is moving into the final planning stages towards the construction of a new community complex in Lorette.

According to RM of Tache Mayor Robert Rivard, the new facility will cost about $12 million. It is expected to include a new ice surface, seating for three hundred fans, the municipal library, day care for forty kids and a gymnasium.

Rivard confirmed that the RM of Tache has a design in mind, but the municipality will be getting more input from community groups to see how they might use the space.

“The old arena is there, we are designing it in a way that when the old structure is finally finished, we can replace it without disrupting the

new structure,” added Councillor Steve Stein. “We are pushing ahead and trying to get this done. It’s been the last six years of working towards this. We really want to see this built because it would be fantastic for the whole municipality.”

According to the plans, the existing arena will not be torn down, but it won’t be tied into the new complex.

They will remain attached, so that visitors can walk from one to the next, and allow the Zamboni to move between the two buildings. The current arena will remain in use as a second ice surface. There will be eight new dressing rooms, and the current basement change rooms would be closed.

Prior to the election, the RM of Tache had a commitment from the province for up to 50% of $8 million in funding, made by the previous

government. The rest of the project will be funded through a combination of reserves, borrowing and fundraising. “They [new government] haven’t made any decisions on any of that,” said Rivard. “We are working with the department employees, the general staff of the province, they have told us to keep moving this project believing the funding is there because according to them the funding is there.”

The RM of Tache hopes that the remaining funding comes through.

With that scenario, Rivard said the municipality could have a shovel in the ground in about six months.

It is expected to take a year to build the new complex.

Lions Member Presented with Award

by Marianne Curtis On July 25, Past District Governor Lion Gérald Fontaine presented Lion Chris Barnard of the Steinbach and Area Lions Club with the Presidential Certified Guiding Lion Award at the Ste Anne Lions Club meeting.

To earn the award, Barnard completed a two-year assignment - The law requires that you always as Certified Guiding Lion to the Ste.Anne Lions Club. Dr. Yamada wear an approved helmet.

- ATVs are not to be operated on roadways, shoulders or sidewalks unless circumstances fall under other provisions laid out in the Off Road Vehicles Act. - Like any other mode of transportation, only operate an ATV when sober and alert.

- Anyone under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is a minimum of 18 years old.

Never underestimate the power of these machines, and how quickly a ride can turn deadly. There is more to riding an ATV than just getting on the machine and turning the key.

Before heading out to enjoy the ride, remember to be prepared and obey the laws. Don’t let poor judgment make you a statistic.

And, no matter what your mode of transportation is, travel safe!

ATV Safety Reminder For all-terrain vehicle (ATV) enthusiasts, summer only means one thing, the opportunity to get out and enjoy a ride. While riding an ATV is a fun activity, it comes with rules and responsibilities set to promote the safety of riders and passengers alike.

Since May of this year, 4 people have died and dozens of others have been seriously injured because of collisions involving ATVs in Manitoba. One of the riders injured was actually a 6-year-old boy. While the contributing factors to these fatalities vary from case to case, the unsafe decisions made by some of the riders remain constant in the vast majority of collisions.

Contributing factors in these deaths included alcohol use, failure to wear a helmet and speed - all factors that could easily be avoided.

Here are some basic rules to keep in mind when heading out on an ATV:

said, “The assistance that you provided has not only served the members of the club, but also the community that the new club serves and long into the future.”

In addition to the Presidential Award, he also received a letter from outgoing Lions Club International President Dr. Jitsuhiro Yamada recognizing his achievement.

DG Gérald Fontaine presents Lion Chris Barnard with Presidential Guiding Light Award