Dawson Trail Dispatch June 2015

Eastman Pet Adoption Fair Huge Success

East Braintree Native Earns Lieutenant Governor’s Award

Lorna Feilberg Annell is presented with the Lieutenant Governor’s Historical Preservation and Promotion Award by the Honourable Philip S. Lee.

By Marianne Curtis

A dozen animal rescues brought out some of their adoptable animals to Waldenway Canine and Kitty Camp in hopes of finding them homes during the first Eastman Pet Adoption Fair.

By Marianne Curtis On May 30, about a dozen animal rescues from around the province converged at Waldenway Canine and Kitty Camp near Ste. Anne for the first Eastman Pet Adoption Fair.

Lise Simister, spokesperson on behalf of Waldenway was pleased with the success of the first adoption fair.

“This event was about getting as many adoptable dogs and cats in one location so that people would come out to see what animals are available at a variety of rescues and find the right dog for their families,” said Simister. “We brought in

as many dogs from different places to one place at one time.”

About five hundred people came out to meet a new fourlegged friend available for adoption from the dozen dogs and cat rescues. Waldenway worked closely with Barry Piasta, founder of dogadoption.com who organized the first pet adoption fair in Niverville a few years ago.

“I heard nothing but positive words about this event and the Waldenway staff who helped all day,” said Piasta. “Dogs were swimming in the outdoor beach. For those who came, a huge thank you, hope you had fun. For those who missed it, you missed a great time.”

Continued on page 3

On May 12, an East Braintree native was one of five Manitobans presented with the Lieutenant Governor’s Historical Preservation and Promotion Award at a special function at Government House.

Lorna Feilberg Annell, formerly of East Braintree was named this year’s recipient of the Lieutenant Governor’s Historical Preservation and Promotion Award. Annell was presented with a certificate, medal and a lifetime membership to the Historical Society for her dedication to preserving the history of several communities in the RM of Reynolds.

Feilberg Annell said she was surprised to be nominated for the award. “I hated history in school,” Feilberg Annell admits. “But when it comes to telling other peoples stories and how they overcome difficulties that interests me.”

Since the 1980s, Annell has been active in the preservation of local history in southeastern Manitoba.

Along with her mother Ester Feilberg, she researched and edited a comprehensive book on the history of the communities of East Braintree, Glenn, and McMunn.

The former East Braintree schoolteacher is also known as an enthusiastic volunteer at the Midwinter Museum,

Continued on page 3

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More Than Just News!

June 2015

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Spring Babies Find Sanctuary

By Marianne Curtis The Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre near Ile Des Chenes has seen an influx of baby animals being brought into the facility in recent weeks.

On May 17, someone brought in four baby beavers after the mother was killed by a dog out by Gypsumville.

Dan Diawol, with the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre said the babies were driven down by a volunteer from the area. “We will care for them as they will need special formula feedings for several weeks,” Diawol said.

“Kits are born fully furred with their eyes open. They One of seven orphans racoons recently brought into the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

need to be kept warm, but after their feedings, they need to go to the bathroom in water. Beaver rehabilitation is a long process, as kits do not mature until they are two years old.”

Diawol said this is a good reason why they need to build a new centre. Last winter, the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre launched a new capital plan, including building a permanent $2.5 million Hospital and Education Centre to care for injured wildlife and to educate the public and a variety of enclosures for recovering wildlife.

“Having these beavers come to the centre shows why it is important to build our permanent home that will have an overwintering facility with heated pools for beavers or waterfowl that need to stay with us over the winter before release into their natural environment,” he stressed.

In addition to the baby beavers, the Haven received seven orphaned raccoons. “Sometimes these little guys are unnecessarily orphaned, when an adult is trapped and released from a person’s home. Then, a few days later, people will hear the hungry cries of babies looking for mom!” Diawol added.

“Raccoons, along with a lot of other wild animals, often have their babies at this time of year.”

Dan Diawol, with the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre bottle-feeds a baby beaver.

Homeowners can call the Wildlife Haven if there are unwanted critters around their home.

By calling 204-878-3740, volunteers will offer tips and tricks on how to entice the animals to leave with the whole family or offer suggestions on how to share your space for a short period.

Honouring Our WWII Veterans for Selfless Courage Provencher MP Ted Falk recently honoured WWII Veterans Walter Skryba, Ray Blixt, Joseph Edward Nespor, Samuel Jay Sadler, Walter Michael Sorokowski, and Roland Albert Valcourt for their service to this country. Absent are William Rolls, Kenneth Hunkin, and John Harold Phillips.

On May 20, nine veterans from Provencher were recognized during a special event hosted

by Provencher MP Ted Falk.

“I was pleased to host an event to recognize the sacrifices made by WWII Veterans in southeastern Manitoba,” stated Falk. “We owe our freedom to the courageous men and women who selflessly fought for the way of life that we all enjoy today. We must never take for granted the sacrifices that they and their families made for us and this ceremony was a small way to recognize their heroic efforts on our behalf.”

Each of the nine veterans was presented with a limited edition lapel pin and a personalized certificate of recognition signed by Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

The recipients included Walter Skryba, Sandilands; Ray Blixt from Sprague; Joseph Edward Nespor, Lac du Bonnet; Samuel Jay Sadler, Emerson; Walter Michael Sorokowski, Winnipeg; Roland Albert Valcourt, Winnipeg; William Rolls, Emerson; Kenneth Hunkin, Morris; and John Harold Phillips, Steinbach.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Community Garden Planted in Sprague

More Than Just News!

June 2015

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La Broquerie, Tache Municipalities Hire Administrators Two of the region’s largest municipalities recently welcomed new chief administrators to the table.

The RM of La Broquerie looked internally to replace retiring CAO Roger Bouvier by hiring Rachel Fournier.

Fournier has been working with the municipality since 2009 when she was first hired as an office clerk.

Over the years, she has been promoted to receptionist, finance, then to assistant administrator. “When Roger went on holidays in January I filled in for him. I guess it went well,” Fournier said. “I enjoy working with the RM of La Broquerie. My favourite part is working with the people in the community.”

While one municipality promoted one of their current staff, the RM of Tache looked outside of the office.

For the past month, Christine Hutlet has been training under Dan Poersch, who is officially leaving June 4.

Before coming to Tache, Hutlet worked for the Red River Basin Commission. Prior to that, she was the CAO in the RM of Brokenhead.

Ruth Christofferson, Mary Stewart, Adina Meek and Sian Barrow tend the newly planted plots in the first East Borderland Community Housing community garden.

By Marianne Curtis Seniors living at the East Borderland Community Housing (EBCH) complex in Sprague can continue to enjoy gardening and fresh produce thanks to the hard work of a number of volunteers.

Sian Barrow was one of several people who planted a variety of vegetables outside of the East Borderland Community Housing for the enjoyment of the residents living in the complex.

“This is great for the people living in the complex,” Barrow said. “There are so many benefits of gardening, including socialization, exercise, and mental wellness and fresh produce.”

Barrow said that any senior in the area can ask for a plot, but so far, no one outside the complex has asked for one. “Presumably because they all have room at home, and most probably have gardened for years.”

Everyone is responsible for neatly maintaining their own piece, harvesting and cleanup.

“I have also taken a responsibility for a plot to grow fruit for everyone to enjoy, at the moment just raspberries and rhubarb,” Barrow continued. “I am hoping that things like cucumbers can be used at community cooking sessions so that everyone at EBCH can benefit from a bountiful harvest, regardless of whether they are able to participate in the actual gardening.”

Barrow said the project became a reality thanks to A New Horizons grant, and several volunteers who assembled a number of boxes for the garden.

“We are also grateful to the students from the Ross L. Gray School for making the flower box in front and the compost bins,” Barrow added. “It’s nice to see the community working together.”

Lt. Gov. Award continued...

Continued from page 1 housed at East Braintree in the former Midwinter one-room schoolhouse, and prepared an historical booklet for its 100th birthday celebration last August. As a member of the East Braintree Cemetery Board, she has also mapped the graves of the pioneers in this area of the province.

RM of Reynolds Councillor Allan Kelly was one of the people who nominated Annell. “I was asked to submit a letter of support for her nomination and I was more than happy to,” Kelly said. “Lorna has done an amazing job documenting the history and many stories that are unique to this area. I could not think of a more deserving recipient.”

The Lieutenant Governor’s Historical Preservation and Promotion Award is handed out annually to people who have rendered prolonged, meritorious service in the preservation and promotion of Manitoba’s history and heritage. It was established by the Honourable Philip S. Lee in 2011.

Pet Adoption continued...

Continued from page 1 Piasta added that it was also a great event for awareness. Over $140 was raised to place signs at various malls and stores warning people to not leave their pets in a vehicle while they run errands.

“Thank you to all the rescues who, on what looked like a cold, windy day for coming out and making this event the great time it was,” said Piasta. “I think it was those great rescues and their volunteers who made the sun come out and the wind calm down.”

On top of a variety of pets looking for new homes, there was activities for the entire family, including bouncers, face painting, horse and pony rides, dog demonstrations, tours, music, and vendors offering great products such as feeders, beds and nutritious treats.

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June 2015

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

True Balance

NDP Squander Our Taxes on Debt and Severance Pay The Manitoba Legislature has been back into the spring session for just over four weeks and estimates for every government department are underway.

The NDP’s 2015 budget prioritizes re-election over the many concerns of Manitobans. The NDP Government delivered their seventh deficit budget and increased the projected deficit to $422 million. The provincial debt is expected to increase to $36 billion but it could add up to much more under this Government.

The budget was supposed to be balanced by 2014, and this target has been moved back to 2016 or 2017. While the Government claims that the Manitoba economy is growing, many people are leaving the province and there is great concern over the effect that the province’s debt will have on future generations.

One of the many troubling parts of the 2015 budget was the nearly $670,00 that will be spent by the NDP Government on severance packages for seven staffers who were fired or quit their jobs due to the conflicts within the NDP Government.

Premier Selinger assured that no NDP staffers would be fired if they helped Theresa Oswald or Steve Ashton during the leadership election in early March.

Evidently, this did not occur and Manitobans have to pay for the Premier’s broken promises.

Since these staffers worked for the New Democratic Party and not for the Government of Manitoba, it would make sense that the NDP Party would cover the costs of their staffers’ severance. This is not the choice that the NDP made.

Instead, taxpayer dollars will be used to pay for the consequences of the divided party. This is yet another example of mismanagement and a lack of respect and awareness of the priorities of Manitobans.

The $670,000 in severance could have been used for several other projects. The money could have been used to fix roads which are in need of repair due to the under spending on infrastructure in the province. The money could have been assigned to building new personal care homes or bed spaces in existing homes. The money could have been used to help pay off the province’s debt so that nearly a billion dollars doesn’t need to be paid in interest. The money could have been used to provide more support to individuals struggling with day-to-day expenses to those who are on disability or are collecting employment insurance benefits.

This NDP Government fails to acknowledge the needs of Manitobans and uses valuable taxpayer dollars to fund its family feud. Fortunately, Manitobans will have the opportunity in less than a year to do away with the NDP and vote for a change for the better under a Progressive Conservative government.

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 204945-4339 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.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, Monica Guetre and Wilma Priebe Advertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre

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NDP Play Hide and Seek With Your Money As most parents will tell you, if there is one game that seems to be universally enjoyed by children, it’s hide and seek. Unfortunately, it is a game that is far less enjoyable when it involves taxpayers’ money, as is happening more and more frequently at the Manitoba Legislature these days under Greg Selinger and the NDP government.

Almost on a weekly basis, concerns are raised about the questionable use of taxpayers’ dollars where the NDP refuse to release the details. Most recently, it involved the NDP paying $670,000 in severance pay to seven NDP staff members.

They were relieved of their jobs by Premier Greg Selinger because they didn’t support him in the recent NDP leadership feud; even though he promised them, they could work on rival leadership candidate campaigns.

The severance pay was paid with taxpayers dollars. That is questionable enough, given that it was the result of an internal NDP dispute, but what made it even worse is Premier Selinger and the NDP refused to release the amount paid for several weeks. And when they did, they only released the lump sum amount, not the amount that was paid individually.

Instead, the NDP say they will likely release the amount paid to individual staff members who were let go after the leadership race sometime in fall of 2016. This is, conveniently, after the next provincial election. This despite the fact these were workers paid with taxpayers dollars and that the Freedom of Information Act indicates the information should be released.

But this has become a pattern with the NDP government.

They simply treat taxdollars as though they belong to the NDP. When the NDP were asked to provide the amount of taxdollars, they spent on lawyers defending the PST increase from 7% to 8% they refused to release the amount under a Freedom of Information request. Eventually, after dodging several requests, it was leaked to the media.

The NDP’s first response to almost any question related to how taxdollars are being spent or managed is to deny and delay. It is clear that the intention is to frustrate the individual asking for the information in the hopes that they simply stop asking. And while that might seem like a smart political strategy to the NDP, it is a game of hide and seek being played with taxpayers dollars. And while that game was fun when we were kids, it’s not nearly as fun when millions of taxdollars are at stake.

I appreciate your comments and concerns. If you have any comments on these or other issues, you can contact me by writing, #3 – 227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, by phone at 204-326-5763, by fax at 204-346-9913, by e-mail at kelvin.goertzen@leg.gov.mb.ca or by visiting my website at kelvingoertzen.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

What Matters Most to NDP Dear Editor: I did not know that Manitoba’s veterinarians where those type of people. You know the ones on the bottom of the “least trusted professions” list. Interestingly occupying the bottom position on the list are politicians. So why all this hue and cry? The MLA for Dawson Trail, Ron Lemieux has torn a page out of the Federal Government’s honesty in advertising law and decided it would look good for the updated “Focused on what matters most to families” advertising campaign.

The Bills are supposed to stop people being quoted a price and then at the end of the day having add-ons to the final bill, sort of like the new

Budget 2015 is responsible. It limits the increase in overall spending to the same rate as the growth of the economy.

While other provinces are cutting front-line services and introducing user fees and health premiums, we have chosen a different path, growing the economy and strengthening services.

Despite our successes in Manitoba, we know that global economic uncertainty is the new normal. Our plan is delivering results, nation leading economic and employment growth.

Our NDP government also has a long-standing commitment to return to a balanced f i s c a l position. We have taken meaningful steps to deliver government m o r e efficiently, including reducing the number of regional health authorities from 11 to 5 and directing the savings to the front lines, merging two Crown corporations and reducing the number of government-appointed agencies, boards and commissions.

In our last Throne Speech, we committed to reducing the total footprint of government office space by 100,000 square feet. This year we will exceed that target by 40 per cent. Two years ago, we committed to reduce the size of the civil service by 600. We have now met that commitment.

Manitoba’s deficit is getting smaller year-over-year. And relative to the size of the provincial economy, it is shrinking even faster. We will continue to reduce the deficit responsibly.

Industry tells us not to take our foot off the gas. Cutting now would devastate our economy. Families tell us to protect the jobs and services they rely on. That means we will not make massive cuts to front-line services or put thousands of Manitobans out of work.

That’s Brian Pallister’s approach. And it’s not worth the risk. At the Filmon cabinet table, Brian Pallister repeatedly made cuts that hurt families and our economy.

And he hasn’t changed. He is planning a half billion in cuts to our hospitals, schools, and roads. And he still believes in privatizing our crown corporations, as they did with MTS. He is only in it for those at the top. Brian Pallister’s reckless policies will stop our economic momentum and hurt the services you count on.

That’s not our approach. I believe that Manitoba families deserve better. Dawson Trail families deserve better. That’s why Budget 2015 is focused on the priorities of average, hardworking families, jobs and opportunities, infrastructure investments to keep our economy growing, and services like health care. Budget 2015 is fiscally responsible. Our plan to achieve balance does not sacrifice investments in jobs or front-line services. That’s why we’re on your side. We’re building a Manitoba where no one is left behind.

As always, I appreciate hearing your comments and thoughts. I encourage you to contact me by e-mail: ron.lemieux@yourmanitoba.ca, by phone 204-878-4644, or by mail at Box 517, Lorette, MB R0A 0Y0. Together we can continue to move Dawson Trail and Manitoba forward.

football stadium. Lemieux describes his advertising bills as a way to enforce transparency in the marketplace, something the NDP knows little about.

I wonder how the veterinarians and car sales people are getting singled out for action. I have three dogs so I have some experiences with veterinarians. Those have always been positive. They tell me the cost of what they have to do and what, if anything may be extra expenses.

When I buy a car, we agree on a price before taxes. If the deal has any hidden costs they show up on the document, I sign. If I have a problem with the additional cost, I have the choice to walk away or re-negotiate the deal. No one is forcing me to make the deal. So why the Bills by Ron Lemieux and the NDP? Because there is an election coming up in eleven months. One that the NDP are fearful of losing, so a new “Hi, I’m your best buddy” slogan and some soft redundant legislation designed to appear that the NDP has got your back. The

bottom tier of the “least trusted profession” is occupied by politicians.

No doubt if you could break out the groups this profession is significantly dragged down by Greg Selinger. “I will not raise taxes”, followed by “It’s ridiculous to suggest I would raise the PST” prior to the 2011 election. We are currently paying out in excess of $130,000.00 to one ex-staffer, an additional $ 670,000.00 to ex-Oswald supporters in severance and more staffers leaving daily, then telling us, the people providing the money that we do not have the right to know about the details of our money being given away should jog your memory as to why some politicians are considered un-trustworthy.

The fact that Lemieux says that his Bills will bring transparency to the marketplace is laughable. I should hope it is not aforementioned NDP kind of transparency.

David Sutherland Landmark, MB

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Community Economy from a Different Angle There are two subjects hitting the news lately, which will have a tremendous impact on our economy and create lasting changes in society for years to come.

I think that it will be a welcome dialogue to progressive elements in society and create fear and despair in conservative ones. I also predict that the outcome will be a nod to the progressives and this gives me a sense of comfort, regardless of the doom and gloom and constant diatribe by the usual conservative suspects. Alas, these two cats are out of the bag. And do not expect purring.

The first of these two subjects is minimum wages. Although there has been discussion on and off on this topic the newly elected Premier of Alberta has been the catalyst for ensuring that, it remains current by declaring that a rise to $15 dollars in 4 years will be her government goal. She is looking for a second kick at the Premier’s chair so do not expect her to give up.

On the one side, you will hear that jobs will be lost and inflation will hit the deck running, therefore creating havoc throughout the economy. On the other hand, you will hear that couples with minimum wage jobs can’t afford rent and food and if their employers have to pay more many will lose their jobs, in other words lay-offs or (fired staff).

There is some truth in both of these statements. For the first part, if rent is affordable more rental places will have to reach the market as opposed to mom and dad’s basement and a potential for a wee bit less credit card activity used for food and necessities plus downsizing debt. All fairly good objectives for the economy, which should correct an objectionable shortcoming in present society, young adults joining the workforce who can’t afford a place to, live.

For the second part, yes some jobs will be lost, as owners/manager will look for cost effectiveness which business should always do any ways.

The affected labour will automatically try to compensate by being more productive or see the need to upgrade their skills for other jobs These two scenarios will not see immediate returns but in time, end up being positive to the economy and more important to this same labourer. Yes, costs will be passed on as businesses have always done. This is what has been going on between business and labour since Adam gave Eve the job of apple picker. I strongly suspect she was paid.

If the higher wage earners in society can get periodic increases without overt panic, why can’t lower wage earners get the same consideration?

One can relate to this discussion as to see this as acquiescing to humankind’s assumed economic fears of yesteryear’s needs for indentured labour or slaves.

The argument was that inflation will run amok and jobs will cease. Bullshit then and the same crap now! One example is the American history of abolishing slavery as pertaining to the economy. The north without slavery kicked economic ass compared to the south, which had slavery and had their asses kicked economically. Our society depends largely on consumers. Whatever we give more to the minimum wage earners will find its way immediately back by paying for necessities and their higher tax accounts. The trick is to not cause a revolution but a determined evolution to reach a balance.

The second subject is increases in CPP. The usual suspects are arguing about impossible inflationary cost to business. And again, the doom and gloom of it all will be good bedtime reading for the entitled class, but many need a bit more to afford a sleeping pill. If the government was able to add up all corporate profits of the last ten years which have found their way to tax havens not to be seen ever again, which is in the billions you would understand the angry scepticism on the subject of inflation.

But, if we were able to pass part of that corporate largess to retirees, that money would find its way back to tills all over the local communities, to pay for food, lodging, medication and yes does one dare say, entertainment.

I think CPP should be increased and then coupled to cost of living increases. If Federal MPs can get a better-indexed pension and receive it at the age of 55 then we the citizens should be endowed with a few more dollars to improve our sense of humour.

Real inflation is Minister Oda’s $16 glass of orange juice or Senator Duffy’s $90,000 for housing expenses for living in his own home.

If minimum wage earners or retirees have, sufficient income to live on without shame that is not inflation it is bare minimum required. Any money spent by citizens in their community is called an economy, would a wee bit more money to spend not improve this same economy?

Eros Wins Municipal By-Election On May 28, 173, voters cast their ballots in an RM of Ste. Anne byelection to select a new Ward 6 representative.

With a seventeen-vote lead, residents have elected Randy Eros as their new councillor. His opponent Faren Chadney received 78 votes.

Eros is a long-time area farmer who owns and operates Seine River Shepards, along the Dawson Road east of Ste. Anne.

The by-election was called after the retirement of Councillor Laurie Evans. Evans was first elected to council in 2002. He was acclaimed twice, including during the 2014 election.

More Than Just News!

June 2015

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Deadline Looming for the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program The application deadline is looming for the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program that the Federal Government announced in April to provide support for existing community and cultural infrastructure across the country as a way to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation.

The program will provide support for the renovation, expansion and rehabilitation of existing infrastructure that provides community and cultural benefits for the public and not limited to private membership.

Projects eligible for funding include community centres, Royal Canadian Legions, cultural centres and museums, parks, recreational trails, libraries, recreational facilities, tourism facilities, docks, cenotaphs and other existing community infrastructure.

Eligible recipients for funding include provinces, territories, municipalities, regional governments, Aboriginal organizations and not-for-profit organizations. Selected projects are expected to be completed by the end of the 2017 construction season to best support Canada 150 celebrations.

One of the issues that communities may have is that Canada 150 money does not go to already planned projects under the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund. Also funding requests under the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program cannot exceed 50% of the total costs of a project, up to a maximum of $500,000. The maximum contribution from all Government of Canada sources (including the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program and other sources such as the Gas Tax Fund) cannot exceed 50% of the total costs of a project.

The program is expected to boost economic activity through infrastructure investments, build communitybased partnerships and modernize existing community facilities.

The program will be delivered through Western Economic Diversification (WED) and the deadline for applications in western Canada will be accepted until Wednesday, June 17, 2015. For applications or information contact WED Manitoba at 204-983-4472.

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More Than Just News!

June 2015

Piney Defends Your Administrator Invitation to and Residents Crow Wing Want Respect

By Marianne Curtis The RM of Piney Council has officially stepped forward to defend their administrator after it became public knowledge that a resident led petition was circulating throughout the municipality.

Last month, the Dawson Trail Dispatch reported that a petition was circulating the municipality as residents attempt to get council to remove their current chief administrator, Martin Van Osch. The petition originated in Sprague, by Sheera York on behalf of the newly formed Concerned Citizens of the RM of Piney.

Woodridge resident Claude Dubois challenged the reeve and council to speak out and either support their staff or deal with the matter before the issue escalated. “I find it despicable and dishonourable that a reeve would allow his chief employee to suffer such indignities without being defended by his reeve and his council,” said Dubois. “If there is any truth to the petition or the article, the implication is that the reeve as well as council are so weak that they can be manipulated by (an) employee.”

In an initial interview with this paper, RM of Piney Reeve Wayne Anderson confirmed he had heard of the petition but had not seen it personally. “I also have heard rumours about a petition in our area. I cannot comment on this until something further develops as it would be only speculation at this point,” said Anderson. “If and when any petition is delivered to the RM of Piney Council, and depending on its nature, we will deal with it in a legal and democratic manner.”

However, in another interview with another paper Anderson said, “Council will take no action against the administrator” and the residents’ accusations supporting the petition of “public abuse”.

“It is not abusive for residents to petition Council (by-law 105/ 2014) about the professional demeanour and performance of an employee who takes his wages from the public purse,” countered York.

“Mr. Anderson, has been quoted as stating that the petition that is circulating contains rumours. This statement is spurious and ambiguous. It is simply the truth that many residents are fed up with being treated with disrespect by the CAO.” Sources say the petition currently holds over two hundred signatures from residents throughout the municipality. However, Dubois challenged the validity of the signatures.

“When I inquired as to the basis of this petition, I was told ‘We know things.’ without being specific,” Dubois continued. “It was also alleged that the CAO was inappropriately drawing funds for personal use from the RM. I then stated that it was wrong to seek signatures, and to ruin a man’s reputation, on the basis of innuendo.”

York stressed the petition is based on the, “Arrogance, impatience and rudeness,” of the chief administrator, not misuse of funds.

Trail’s AGM

Despite its opening sixteen years ago, the Crow Wing Trail remains one of the regions best kept secrets.

Promoted and redeveloped by a group of dedicated volunteers from six municipalities and one First Nation, the Crow Wing Trail connects several historic communities along the way through active transportation.

The trail is a 191 kilometre historic trade route once used by the pioneers and is now the longest Manitoba section of the Trans Canada Trail.

Crow Wing Trail President Murielle Bugera is looking forward to showing off the organization’s hard work at an upcoming annual meeting.

Dawson Trail Dispatch “Come and learn what is happening in other parts of the province or take the opportunity to ask questions about what interests you about trails,” invited Bugera.

On June 10, the Crow Wing Trail is having their annual meeting at the Club Amical in St. Adolphe, starting at 7 pm. The agenda includes the presentation of 2014 activities and 2015 plans.

A representative from Trails Manitoba will be the guest speaker for the evening.

The Crow Wing Trail goes through the communities of Emerson, Ridgeville, St. Malo, St. Pierre-Jolys, Otterburne, Niverville and St. Adolphe, as well as the municipalities of Franklin, De Salaberry and Ritchot and the Roseau River First Nations.

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Piney Warns Residents to Stay Clear of Fire Calls

The RM of Piney recently put out a notice warning residents to keep their distance when they see the local fire crews responding to calls.

According to Council, the fire response

teams have noticed an increase in the public’s attendance during recent fire calls within the RM of Piney. In a public notice, the municipality states that due to Workplace Health and Safety, the public cannot assist in fire calls.

Council is referring to the regulations that established, “A legal duty for all persons in a position of authority to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of its workers and the general public.” Bill C-45 is federal legislation that amended the Canadian Criminal Code and provides for organizations, including municipal corporations and/or its officers, to be

charged with a criminal offence if it is found that they have not taken, “Reasonable steps to prevent bodily harm,” to any person. “Reasonable steps” is generally accepted to include compliance with Provincial Workplace Safety and Health Legislation and supporting regulations.

The municipality must also ensure that control of fire emergencies are in line with the provincial legislation under the Highway Traffic Act where, “A driver, other than the driver of an emergency vehicle, shall not follow fire apparatus more closely than is

June 2015 reasonable in the circumstances, or drive or park on any street nearer to a place on the same street on which fire apparatus has stopped in answer to a fire alarm, than is reasonable in the circumstances.”

“When the fire is running along municipal roads, it is crucial to keep the area clear of traffic so no spectators are injured or involved with the fire,” states the RM notice.

The RM of Piney requested that the public respect the need for safety by keeping any fire scene a safe and secure area.

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Gun Toting Drunken Driver Arrested and Charged On May 2 at about 9:30 pm, Sprague RCMP received a report of someone driving impaired and carelessly using a firearm. Officers from Sprague and Steinbach RCMP attended a rural property in the RM of Piney. Police witnessed a man shooting a firearm, although it did not appear that he was shooting at anyone or anything in particular.

RCMP arrested Gregory Vincent, a 48-year-old male from the RM of St. Clements.

He is charged with one count each of Careless Use of Firearm, Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm, Impaired Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Possession of a Weapon for Dangerous Purpose and Unsafe Storage of Firearms.

Vincent was remanded into custody and made his first appearance in Winnipeg Provincial Court on May 4.

Vita Still Fighting for ER

By Marianne Curtis On May 25, over a hundred and fifty people attended a barbeque meet and greet in Vita. The purpose of the event was to give the community an opportunity to meet a number of the doctors serving the area.

Vita and District Health Centre Foundation spokesperson Michelle Gawronsky says the event was held in part as an effort to entice doctors to stay in the community.

“We recently had four - first year medical students practicing in our community. We want them to know we are here, that we value them and that we want them to come back and practice here,” stated Gawronsky. “We also wanted to show Southern Health that we are serious about wanting our emergency room open and we want doctors in our community.”

According to Gawronsky, the community is frustrate the emergency room remains closed after two years, despite their attempts to reopen.

“We are still trying to recruit doctors for Vita… we have not given up on that.

We want doctors in our hospital and Southern Health wants a clinic,” Gawronsky continued. “If they would open our emergency room, we would have proper medical services.”

While Southern Health’s focus appears to be keeping physicians in Steinbach, she points out that is not really benefiting clients who need to use Steinbach’s services.

“The folks in Steinbach are are trying to deal with their own community and then our patients are going in there because we have no options. If we had good health care in Vita, we would not be forcing the people in Steinbach to wait for treatment they need,” she stressed.

Southern Health has maintained to reopen the Vita ER when three or four doctors were in the community, “We’ve been told once we needed to get three or four doctors; we had four doctors, now we have three yet the ER is still not open,” Gawronsky concluded. “It makes no sense to me.

We have a perfectly good emergency room.”

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June 2015

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Fast Eddy Marks Centre of Canada in There and Back Again Run

By Marianne Curtis Three months after Eddy Dostaler left Victoria, British Columbia as part of his plan to be the first person in history to run across Canada and back, he reached the centre of Canada.

Twenty-six year old Dostaler is completing a 21,585 km “There and Back” run in support of the Alzheimer Society of Canada and the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. His journey, which he is doing completely alone and pushing all of his gear in a small jogging type stroller is expected to

last a year.

Originally, he planned on going across Canada one-way in support of the Alzheimer Society which became personal when his grandmother was diagnosed with the disease. Two months later, after a professor passed away from lung cancer, he decided that since he has to travel both ways he would fundraise and run coast to coast for two causes.

“I sat down that day and said, “I’m going to go there and back – I’ll run for two causes,” Dostaler recalled.

On May 27, Dostaler was officially twenty-five percent through his

Bethesda Entrance Finally Addressed Patients and visitors with mobility issues having problems accessing Bethesda Regional Health Centre will soon see some relief. On May 13, Southern Health, in partnership with Manitoba Health awarded the contract for redesigning the main entrance to the region’s largest health centre to ft3 Architecture Landscape Interior Design.

According to Southern Health, they will work with a universal access specialist and will provide a comprehensive review and a design solution to address the universal accessibility of the Bethesda Regional Health Centre main entrance.

Jan Gunness, Southern Health Director of Health Services said that over the last twelve months there have been many concerns expressed.

“We have heard the public’s concerns and we regret the inconvenience that this has caused and we are working hard to rectify these problems,” stated Gunness.

“We feel badly for people struggling to get into the site.”

Ft3 Architecture Landscape Interior Design will provide a comprehensive review and design solution for three areas including the ramp, the front entrance and how to move patients between the front entrance and emergency department.

Gunness said an open house is expected to take place in June where the public will have an opportunity to view proposed plans for the new ramp. Once

Patients using the wheelchair ramp at Bethesda Regional Health Centre will be happy once a more practical entrance to the hospital is created after the new ramp turned out to be too steep and difficult to navigate.

that is done, they will move on to the front entrance and work on improving the traffic flow between the two areas within the hospital.

She added that it is too early to predict how much this project will cost and how long it will take however; she hopes the improvements will be done by fall.

Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen has continuously lobbied Manitoba Health to speed up the process because this has been a huge issue in the community.

From the day the entrance opened a year ago, ratepayers have been contacting him about the ramp, saying that patients and visitors with mobility issues were were having a hard time getting into the hospital because it was a second floor entrance.

‘There’ portion of his journey when he made a pit stop in Dufresne to snap a photo with the centre of Canada landmark.

Dostaler’s brief pitstop made him the first official visitor at the new Centre of Canada site, says RM of Tache council Bill Heather.

“A banner (has been) erected at the site along the north side of the Trans Canada highway,” explained Heather. “This is the first step in developing our Centre of Canada park and monument site. A permanent sign will be erected in the near future and further development talks are ongoing.”

The National Monument Society is developing a park with a national monument marking the longitudinal Centre of Canada along Highway #1 near Dufrense. This tourist destination, consisting of a twentyacre park for the whole family is expected to become a permanent national meeting place.

To donate to his causes or follow him on his route, visit fasteddycanada.com.

June 2015

9

The RM of Tache councilor Armand Poirier and National Monument society member Hettie Penner (Stam and her husband Leonard Penner were erecting the banner marking the location for the future Centre of Canada Park when Eddy Dostaler dropped in making him the first official visitor at the site.

10

More Than Just News!

June 2015

Niverville Residents Asked to Conserve Water

to collect runoff for watering. The Town is also offering free water to residents for filling pools. Residents are responsible to load and haul the water themselves.

Last August was the first time that a spike in water usage went above the daily maximum that can be produced.

The Town has a reservoir that is used to draw upon to assist during such days.

On May 27, the Town of Niverville In response to the spike from last Council issued a water consumption summer, the Niverville council has put notice advising local residents to into motion several steps regarding the conserve water. water supply. Staff studied the average Myron Dyck, Niverville’s Mayor said water consumption rate per resident per the notice complies with policy that day is to see if Niverville residents’ when the amount of water being consumption is in keeping with other produced by the water treatment plant communities of similar population. is less than the amount of water that is Dyck said the study revealed that being consumed, a notice is sent out.

Niverville residents use more litres per “There is no concern that we have day than other communities do enough water, however, the issue is how compared to their size.

The Town also hired a hydrologist, or water expert, to look at our water situation and to provide a report back to council. The report is expected to be ready in early summer. They have also submitted a proposal to the Federal Government under the Build Canada Fund requesting money for water Pat Porter Active Living Centre offers programs, activities, services and upgrades and expansion of services. volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for older adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come and pay us a visit and consider participating in some of our programs. For more information drop by the Centre, Monday to Friday 9 am - 4 pm, call 204320-4600 or online patporteralc.com.

Membership is only $25 per year due by January 15 of each year for those 55 years of age and older. Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice in business meetings, voting rights and eligibility to serve on the board or committees. The fee after January 15, 2015 is $30. Join early and avoid the $5 late fee!

Community Garden: Volunteers needed to help us get the garden spots ready, planting, weeding, and watering our garden. Please note that all of the produce that is grown is used in our kitchen for the Meals on Wheels Program. Any help with this project is greatly appreciated we use it and how much,” stated Dyck.

“Under normal operations, our daily water consumption as a Town is about one third of the total amount that can be produced by our water treatment plant in one day.”

According to Dyck, the water order was issued after a spike occurred in the days prior from residents watering their lawns and filling their pools. It states that if residents do not follow the Town’s Water Safeguarding Policy, watering lawns and filling pools will be banned.

“We need to maintain an adequate amount of water in the reservoir to preserve the capacity for fire protection,” the notice reads.

Residents are encouraged to conserve water by watering lawns on alternating days, watering lawns and beds with sump pit water, and using rain barrels

Up and Coming Events and Monthly Programs: Back to Nature Nordic Hiking: 90 Day Hiking Program starting on Thursday, June 4. Explore Steinbach’s many parks as well as a few of Manitoba’s Provincial Parks. Program includes structured walking program, advice on fitness goals and weight loss, nutritional information, and more!

Transportation, park entry fees and refreshments provided. Contact Carrie at: 204-320-4604 AGM & BBQ Volunteer Appreciation: On Thursday, June 11, beginning at 2 pm with the AGM followed by entertainment and BBQ Supper and Volunteer Awards at 4 pm with more entertainment and dessert at 6 pm.

Computer Lab: Need help with your computer skills? Call the centre and make an appointment. Labs are 1 hour long and available every Wednesday morning from 9 am – Noon. Please call the centre at 204-320-4600.

Birthday Celebrations: First Wednesdays of the month at 2 pm. Celebrate with us! Bring your friends! Guests pay $2 for coffee and cake.

Foot Care: On the first Tuesday, first Wednesday and third Tuesday of the month from 9 am - 2 pm. Run by a professional foot care nurse. Cost $30. Bring your own towel. Contact the centre to book an appointment.

Beltone Hearing: On the third Friday of each month. Contact 1-800-6612653 for appointment.

Monday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 12 – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Pickleball 1 - 4:30 pm Model Trains 1 pm Canasta 7 pm Tai Chi Tuesday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 9:30 am – 3 pm Circle of Friends 12 – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Floor Shuffle 2:30 - 4:30 pm Family Search Wednesday 9 am -12 pm Computer classes - call to register 10 - 11:30 am Tai Chi 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Cribbage 1:30 - 4 pm Floor Curling 7 - 9 pm Old Time Country Band Practice Thursday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Whist 6 - 9 pm Pickleball Friday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Pickleball Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $6. Contact 204320-4605 by 9 am to reserve your meal for that day. Purchase your meal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menus available at the office or in the newsletter. Bring a friend.

Volunteer Opportunities include perogy making, decorating and setting tables, birthday party hosts, food preparation and serving, clean up, greeters and receptionists.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

St. Labre 200 Fundraising Campaign Supports Food Bank

By Marianne Curtis The newly opened food bank in Ste. Anne has been added to the list of nonprofit groups from the region as one of the beneficiaries of the 7th annual St. Labre 200. People coming out to attend the summer event are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for Accueil Kateri Centre in exchange for free admission to the event.

This most original annual event does not take place until July, but fourteen

teams are already registered and ready to roll.

In March, the organizers of the St. Labre 200 invited nonprofit organizations to apply for funds through their “Go-Karts Giving Back to the Community Campaign”. Proceeds from this year’s event will be divided between the Compassionate Quilters in Vita, Ecole Point-des-Chene’s Alternative Education Program and Canadian CMV Foundation. Since the event started seven years ago, $38,000 has been donated to non-profit groups within the region.

St. Labre 200 includes many activities and the proceeds from the community supper, concessions, merchandise, team auction, on site donation jar, raffle and a non-perishable food item are what make it possible for organizers to Give Back to the Community.

The main event is a 24-hour go-cart build off, followed by a 200-lap race (50 miles). Other activities on the

Pre-Registration Day at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre – On Thursday, June 4 from 3 - 8 pm. 10% off ALL FALL PROGRAMS! Try something creative and new!

Creative Wellness – Zumba, Yoga, Pilates (On the Ball, Core Basic and Power), Belly Dance.

In the Kitchen – Kids in the Kitchen, Creative Cooking.

Languages – French Beginner I & II, Spanish Beginner I & II. Visual Arts – Kids: Art Adventures, Art X-Travaganza, Handbuilding with Clay. Teens: Mixed Art for Teens, Digital Photography for Teens, Cartoon Illustration, Pottery Passion. Adult: Intro to the Pottery Wheel, Mixed Art for Adults, Digital Photography, Acrylics, Oils, Watercolours, Woodcarving Club.

Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts – Piano, Voice, Violin, Theory.

Southeastern Manitoba Music Teachers Association – music lessons and workshops.

Arts4Tots Preschool Program – Register Today! Limited Spaces! Parents love our Arts focus! Ages 3 - 5 learn early childhood education through Dance, Theatre, Music, Visual Arts... and Culture! We hire professional instructors to teach our tots the most creative way to learn! Choose from Monday through Thursday, morning or afternoon.

SUMMER ARTS DAY CAMP – Register Today! Get creative this summer with a fusion of art, music, dance, drama, recreation and much more! Choose from 7 weeks of different themed camps – African Safari, Get Active – Sports, Life at Sea…to name a few! SWIMMING EVERY FRIDAY! BACKYARD THEATRE COMPANY - Register Today! Explore your imagination, ignite your creativity and build your confidence with our theatre company. Ages 5 - 15 perform in a Christmas Showcase, Southeast Music Festival and the Final Production. Participate in creative classes that include story-telling, character building, improvisation, script writing, games, pajama parties, costume parties and much more! Call 204-346-1077 to register for fall today!

NEW! XCOMPANY Dance Studio Satellite Program - 12 Week Introductory Dance Classes. Try something new! Have Fun! Be Active! High Energy! For dancers who want a new experience! Hop n’ Bop (3 - 5), Creative Movement (3 - 5), Broadway Stars (3 - 5), Intro Jazz (6 - 9), Intro Hip Hop (6 - 9), Hip Hop (10 - 12), Jazz (10 - 12), Stage Combat (9+), Musical Theatre (6 - 12). For more Program Details, visit xcompany.net or call 204-371-8007.

FREE Summer Concerts – Bring your lawn chairs and head down to the KR Barkman Park on Main Street in Steinbach – just look for the gazebo! Enjoy music, drama and dance, plus artists painting in the park. Banned & Outlawed Saturday, June 6 – 6:30 pm, Spirit Free Sunday, June 7 – 6:30 pm, Broken Fishbowls, HC Derksen Thursday, June 11 – 6:30 pm, Middle School Jazz Bands Sunday, June 14 – 2 pm SRSS Jazz, Friday, June 26 – 6:30 pm Mint, Band RBB, Saturday, June 27 – 6:30 pm XCompany dance, 5 Acres, Chammartin Family, Sunday, June 28 – 6:30 pm Soul Purpose, Bowman Brothers.

Looking for youth – Join the Creative Youth Council! Be a part of community events planned BY you and FOR you! Upcoming events include the Summer in the City Festival (Youth in the City zone) and our third annual Battle of the Bands. Contact the SAC Office.

Summer in the City – From Friday, June 19 – Sunday, June 21. Looking for volunteers to help backstage (set up and take down, technical crew), work with the Artists in the City Tent Committee. Get The Road Hammers and Colin James Tickets at The Steinbach Arts Council! Stop by the Artists tent to watch artists at work. Lots to see or purchase! Plus a great lineup of performers on the SCU Main Stage and Cultural Stage.

Current hall gallery exhibit ART & SOUL - Featuring Artists Bev Unger and Olivia Peters. Dynamic Acrylic Painting and mixed media. Artwork will be displayed in the hallway from Wednesday, May 27 – Monday, June 22.

‘Celebration of Learning’ Windup & Concert - With ARTS 4 TOTS! Join us on Thursday, June 11 from 5:30 – 8 pm at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre. Our tots will be singing and performing a dance to windup their creative year.

Coming Soon – register for fall programs online! And tickets for concerts, and more!

Many more details on steinbachartscouncil.ca.

grounds include excavator and skid steer rodeo, bounce castles, R/C race cars, rubber boot toss, live bands, Red Bomb Fireworks, Chocolate Chip Cookie Cook-off, Manitoba Arm Wrestling Association sanctioned tournament and many others.

This year’s St. Labre 200 takes place from Friday, July 10 – Saturday, July 11. The campground and pit bays open for teams at 6 pm on Thursday to prepare for the fast-paced race weekend and spectators can set up in the campground on Friday night beginning at 6 pm.

The Accueil Kateri Centre is expected to be open by the end of June in Ste. Anne.

St. Adolphe Dike Expansion Goes to Tender The RM of Ritchot is pleased to announce that the St. Adolphe East Dike Expansion project is moving forward.

According to RM of Ritchot Mayor Jackie Hunt all necessary agreements were signed by the three levels of government to secure the lands required for the expansion at the end of March.

“The project went to tender on May 15 for the construction of the dike, with the project being awarded early June.

Once the contractor has been announced, work on the dike will commence,” stated Hunt. “This is a two-year construction program that we hope to see wrap up in the fall of 2016. This new dike will add an additional 300 acres of protected land in our community.”

Residents can stay up to date with the activities and address any questions or concerns by contacting the Municipal office. To look at maps or review the secondary plan for this new area, visit the website at ritchot.com or call the office at 204-883-2293.

June 2015

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St. Malo Festivals Risk Cancellation For the first time in years, the community of St. Malo will not have a September long weekend summer festival.

Held every September long weekend, the St. Malo Summer Festival is a very popular four-day event. From Thursday evening to Sunday evening, hundreds of people from all over Manitoba and elsewhere congregate in the community to participate and enjoy diverse activities.

Last year it was renamed the Multicultural Festival. However, this year, due to a lack of volunteers, the festival has been cancelled to regroup, confirmed Aline Pilotte.

“We lost one festival and are now on the verge of losing another. The 2015 St. Malo Multicultural Festival is cancelled due to not enough volunteers and now our Winter Festival is in danger of cancelling for the very same reason. “No one will sit on the committee to organize it,” said Pilotte.

A June meeting of the Festival of Friends (Winter Festival) organizational committee will determine if the second festival will be cancelled due to a lack of volunteers.

In order to save either of these festivals, volunteers need to step forward and make a commitment. Anyone interested in helping with the Winter Festival can contact Georges Pageot at 204-347-5197 or at friendsofstmalopark.com.

The contact person for the Multicultural Festival is Aline Pilotte at 204-3475249 or stmalosummerfestival.ca.

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June 2015

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Scams Right Here in Our Area I’ve been intending to share this information for a few months, but needed to get my client’s permission to share his story. His name and location will remain anonymous, but what he shared with me is very alarming!

After I share his story and other scams, I will have a couple of tax reminders at the end.

Scams and con artists continue to be successful because we want to believe. The phrase, “If it sounds too good to be true it probably is,” is very good advice. In order for you to receive a lottery or an inheritance, you NEVER need to send money first. And you NEVER need to provide your banking information.

I want to start my first (and most concerning) scam that happened to my client last fall. I’ll call him John. He called me up late last fall and said, “I think I just gave away all my money.”

I asked him to come to my office and explain what happened.

He received a call from someone who advised he had won over a million dollars. Of course, he and his wife were ecstatic, although a bit sceptical. The man then calls a few times and tells him everything he wants to hear and has all the answers. He is good, including reminding my client not to tell any of his family. And if anyone at the bank asks questions, it is none of their business. He is told that in order to claim the prize, he must send money via wire transfer to a foreign country. So he proceeded to withdraw all of his registered savings and send the money.

Of course, there was no prize. Yes, he feels humiliated and he didn’t even want to tell his children (I offered to talk with his children with him, but they are in another province; I offered to talk on the phone and he said he’d let me know). I tried to comfort him saying the con artists are very good and make everything sounds so good. He agreed wholeheartedly. I encouraged him to go to the police to report it. I’m not so sure, he did, but he did agree I could share his story so others will learn from it.

To make matters worse, because he withdrew taxable registered savings, he paid income taxes, no longer qualifies for the Guaranteed Income Supplement for the next 12 months and no longer gets GST credit for the next year.

There have been others over the years that fortunately my clients have checked with me before they send money or send their banking information. One was a letter a client received from a law firm in Vancouver to explain someone she had worked with many years ago had recently died and had left her as a beneficiary in her will, including a large “certificate of deposit”. When the lawyer asked for banking info, I became very suspicious. Lawyers never ask for bank accounts to pay out an inheritance. I said, the lawyer has her address already, and she could confirm her name and address, but give no further information (she insisted on responding to the letter). She never did get any inheritance. The other clue I had was the term “certificate of deposit”. That term is used in the USA, not Canada and yet, the lawyer and the “deceased friend” were in Vancouver.

Another client last year brought a letter he received from Australia, another inheritance from a long lost uncle. Again, they wanted banking info, but I explained they do not need it.

Again, he insisted on responding to the letter, so I reviewed the info he was providing and ensured that no confidential information was given. No inheritance received yet and no further letters.

And a more recent one was is quite disturbing. Just last month a client phoned me to say she got a call from the Canadian Revenue Services that she owed them money and they would be freezing her accounts unless she sent them money now. The caller was quite angry and very demanding.

Fortunately, she had call display, wrote down the number, hung up, and called me. I assured her she did not owe CRA any money (I had signed authorization from her to view her CRA account on line). Her account balance with CRA was zero (she had received her refund earlier). I confirmed that she did not owe them any money and that is not how they operate. She hung up and I did an internet search on the phone number and WOW, lots of info about this scam. And they had the name wrong. It’s not Canadian Revenue Services; it is called Canada Revenue Agency. I had another client experience a similar call.

First, let me explain that if you do owe CRA money, they send out a series of statements of account to advise what you owe and then after a year or two, they will send a letter to demand payment. If they do have your phone number, yes, they may phone you, but they are not angry and threatening like my client’s caller. They can freeze your account and or garnish your income, but it’s normally after a very long period that you owe them money.

So if you get anything (letter or phone call) that does sound too good be true, call me or see me. I can review what you received to ensure if is legitimate or if it is a scam. And I can do an internet search to determine if others have been scammed. If you have been scammed and are out money, I encourage you to contact your local police. They may not be able to do much, but the more they have on record, the better.

If you have any other scams that you would like me to share with others, please let me know. I assure you will remain anonymous.

Finally, a few tax reminders for June. First, if you are self-employed like me, we have until June 15 to file our taxes without penalty if we owe. If we file after June 15, we are subject to a penalty of 5% of what is owed and 1% for each month it’s delayed. This penalty could be higher if it’s not the first year you are late.

If you have not filed your taxes yet (self-employed or not), if you owe, you have started owing interest beginning May 1 2015. So let’s get them done as soon as possible.

If you are expecting a refund, there is no penalty, but it’s your money, so let’s get it now.

And there are many benefits that are recalculated in July based on your 2014 tax return, so if you receive the Child Tax Benefit, Universal Child Care Benefit (now includes all children under 18), GST credit, Guaranteed Income Supplement, or subsidized housing, you definitely need to get your taxes done now!

If you are a regular snowbird and spend about 120 days or more in the US in each of the past few years, there is a tax form you need to send to the US by June 15. If you are unsure, call, email, or come and see me.

And a final note, I will be restarting my “death cafe” in July and the following months. If you would like to be on my contact list when we have specific dates, call or email me.

Anni Markmann is a tax professional working, living, and volunteering in our community.

Contact Anni at 204-422-6631, anni@steannetaxservice.ca, or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near the Co-op).

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

June 2015

13

Little Free Library Pops New Daycare Refused Up in Hadashville Occupancy Permit

By Marianne Curtis After six years of planning, and one year of construction a new day care centre in St. Malo had expected to move in the beginning of May. However, even though the building is complete and ready for occupancy, it remains vacant.

On May 27, nearly a hundred residents attended a community meeting held to discuss issues surrounding the lack of a occupancy permit so that the doors of Garderie de Bambins in St. Malo could finally open for business.

Helen Robidoux, President of the Garderie de Bambins Board, said they have built an amazing facility that will educate and entertain children for many years to come. “Not too long ago, I finally had the opportunity to tour the facility and it is absolutely incredible! Our children are going to love it,” stated Robidoux.

However, one major issue has kept the daycare from relocating down the street to their new location. “...while the construction is complete, we have yet to resolve one major complication,” explained Robidoux. “We have not been given approval from the RM for water hook up, therefore we have been not been granted our occupancy permit.”

At the meeting, the group accused the municipality of stopping the process by telling the Fire Commissioners office to not approve occupancy due to insignificant flow levels to operate a fire suppression system.

RM of De Salaberry Reeve Marc Marion said they have no control over the occupancy permit. “The RM had no say in the purchase of the property. There should have been an evaluation of the land before it got purchased,” Marion stated. “This area was developed for residential lots so there is only a four inch water line. We knew this was not an appropriate place to build such a building.

The daycare needs to work with the system we have.”

Marion said that in order to ensure that the community water supply is not compromised, the daycare would have to install their own a pump house and a cistern, which could cost about $250,000.

“Everyone is looking at the RM as the bad guy. They came and got the building The first Little Free Library is in southeastern Manitoba. It recently opened outside of the Hadashville Country Store thanks to Kathy Cornell. permit from us and that was it. Their inspectors are from the city and we had no say in that nor did they come to the office to speak to us,” Marion continued. “We could have given them the flow rates and the information they needed. Our Little Free Library is a non-profit, books,” the Libraries rapidly took

By Marianne Curtis engineer is saying no we can’t do that, I can’t understand, where were their on a wide variety of sizes, shapes, tax-exempt organization whose inspectors during the process?” themes and other attributes. mission is to promote a sense of A movement that started six Marion noted that the LUD of St. Malo is at the stage of doing a hydraulic Initially the goal was to build community, reading for children, years ago in Wisconsin has found analysis that will look at what can be done now and what can be done in the 2,510 Little Free Libraries across literacy for adults and libraries its way to southern Manitoba, future. the United States. As of January around the world. Users are thanks to the inventiveness of a RM of De Salaberry CAO Larissa Love confirmed that the community water 2015, there are over 25,000 Hadashville business owner. Last encouraged to take a book and system could fluctuate during peak times, which could compromise a consistent registered Little Free Libraries in leave a book so that reading month, Kathy Cornell, owner of flow level to maintain a fire suppression system in the building. over 70 countries. material stays fresh and keeps the Hadashville Country Store, “The daycare has hooked up to the LUD of St. Malo water utility which may Anyone can set up a free library. not be sufficient enough to support a fire suppression sprinkler system,” Love stocked the shelves of a Little Free recirculating. No library cards are For more information, visit needed or membership is needed, Library, a first in southern confirmed. “As far as I know, other structures in the community that have freelibrary.org. and it is never closed.

Manitoba. sprinklers installed have their own wells and pump systems.”

“It really helps foster community, A native of East Braintree, The new building is about 7,000 sq. ft and would allow the community’s daycare Cornell said she got the idea while and to me the community and the centre to expand from the current occupancy of 64 to 94 children. It will remain people in it are important,” Cornell living in Winnipeg before vacant until it can be confirmed that the town’s water supply can adequately feed added. “I have a great variety of returning a year and a half ago to the sprinkler system. books in mine, from children, teen, purchase the community’s only general store. “When I was living spiritual, horror, to romance. I am so happy when people use it. It makes in the city I would walk my dogs putting it up worth while.” and on one of the walks I found Although many businesses and one and I was blown away. When I apartments may have had “take a moved back here, I knew I had to build one,” Cornell recalled. “I also book, leave a book” shelves for years, the idea of a network of own over a thousand books and this also allows me to weed out my unique structure with stewards, signage and social support began collection.” in 2009 in Wisconsin. Todd Bol built Cornell said that in a small a model of a one-room schoolhouse community like Hadashville, as a tribute to his mother, a former having access to fresh reading schoolteacher who loved material could be difficult for area reading. He filled it with books and residents. “There are no public put it on a post in his front libraries here, and new books are yard. Rick Brooks took it a step very expensive,” Cornell continued. “Plus there are a lot of further by encouraging people to build little libraries out of recycled people who have tons of books materials. they want to get rid of and they Originally designed to look like a can leave books here, and get one-room school or a “house of different ones.”

14

More Than Just News!

June 2015

Summer in the City to Offer Culture and Fun

By Marianne Curtis The City of Steinbach is gearing up for their biggest festival of the year when Summer in the City takes over main street on June 19, 20 and 21.

For three exciting days, the streets in Steinbach will be bustling with sales, music and tons of entertainment and fun.

Crystal Hildebrandt, Chair of Summer in the City Festival said they are excited to be continuing the festival for a full day on Sunday this year. “We are very excited to have Sunday be an even bigger part of the Festival,” Hildebrandt said. “We will start the day as we have in the past with Worship in the City at KR Barkman Park and then invite everyone to come down Main The Roadhammers.

Street to enjoy the food and craft vendors as well as the midway.”

In addition, there will be more free activities for children and youth as well as plans to display local artists, she added. “Summer in the City continues to grow each year and we are beyond happy with the support we receive from the community, the businesses and volunteers in order to make this all happen,” said Hildebrandt.

Shoppers will be treated to fantastic citywide deals during the three-day event as participating businesses remind shoppers why “It’s Worth The Trip!” to Steinbach. Steinbach Credit Union will host their annual Pancake Breakfast on the morning of June 20 to begin the Sales in the City.

When it comes to music, the Summer in the City organizing committee has two great headlining acts slated to take the stage. On Friday, June 19 Quinton Blair, Jason Kirkness and the Road Hammers will perform the night’s music. On Saturday, Third Degree opens for headliner Colin James on the SCU Stage.

Tickets are $30 each or $50 for VIP. They are available at, Earl’s Meat Market and Steinbach Arts Council.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

St. Malo’s Deer Relocation Up in the Air

By Marianne Curtis It was a sad day in St. Malo when the community’s well know deer monument that has been greeting visitors for years, came down to make room for a controversial condo development. Ian Kirby from the St. Malo and District Wildlife Association is hoping that the community will be able to save the famous deer statue that greets visitors.

The deer monument was first installed in 1990. Since then it is one of the first things visitors see when they enter the community from the north. While the statue has stood several decades without issue, the St. Malo and District Wildlife Association were forced to remove it by May 31 to make room for a condominium development adjacent to the Chalet Moulin.

Last fall a petition circulated throughout the community begging the municipality to establish a public green space in the condominium development at the corner of Highway 218 and Highway 59, which would allow the deer statue to remain in place.

“The monument, that is a symbol of our community, should not be moved to accommodate additional financial profit for a private developer when the council has the power to save them,” Kirby stated. “The deer statues are important to our community.”

Kirby said a detailed plan for relocating the deer statue within St. Malo is currently being developed, detailing a location, estimates and funding. “Everything but the date the statues have to be removed is up in the air,” Kirby continued. “Several potential locations have been proposed and are still being considered.”

Until a new home is located for the statue, St. Malo and District Wildlife Association will keep them in storage.

The deer monument was unveiled by His Royal Highness Prince Edward in July 1990. It was placed in recognition of the valuable volunteer assistance provided to the

On May 27, the St. Malo and District Wildlife Association were forced to remove the community’s deer monument to make room for a condominium development.

Department of Natural Resources by the St. Malo and District Wildlife Association and Area Residents. From 1985 to 1988, in the first ever, large-scale urban deer relocation program in Canada 283 white-tailed deer were captured and moved from the city of Winnipeg to the St. Malo Wildlife Management Area and surrounding region. Area residents provided countless hours of assistance and equipment to transport deer during the relocation program.

Group Experiments with Chemical Free Landscaping

By Marianne Curtis On May 27, the South Eastman Transition Initiative held an evening open house to introduce the public to a new GreenSpace Options site.

According to Jack Heppner, GreenSpace Options is an experimental site at the corner of First Street and Brandt Road managed by the South Eastman Transition Initiative (SETI). Earlier this year the City of Steinbach gave SETI permission to take responsibility for the site for a three-year period.

“The goal of GreenSpace Options is to assist the Steinbach community in exploring alternative, chemicalfree ways of using and maintaining green spaces,” explained Heppner.

“The idea of operating such a site came as a direct response to the new provincial regulations now in place

limiting the use of toxic chemicals for cosmetic purposes.”

Heppner, along with Jack Schellenberg and Ernie Klassen comprise the Task force, who oversees operations of the site.

He said the group is willing to carry out specific experiments at this location with the hope that some new options will emerge that can be used in other areas throughout the City. The City of Steinbach manages over 250 acres of green space. “A lot of work has already been done preparing the site,” said Heppner.

Volunteers planted maple tree, removed a driveway. They have also added a crushed limestone pathway through the heart of the property and raised garden beds have been constructed. In addition, a sizeable area has been tilled in which various grasses and other ground cover experiments will be conducted.

“A key component of the experiments will be to utilize aeration, composting and over-seeding on grass-covered areas in an attempt to build healthy soil which should translate into healthy grass,” he added.

The Task Force will keep in touch with Russ Dyck, Department Head of Parks and Recreation in Steinbach, and submit an annual report of its activities and discoveries made at GreenSpace Options.

The public is invited to get involved by participating in various events throughout the year. On June 12, the group will host a workday to spread compost to rejuvenate the grass and improve the soil conditions. Participants are encouraged to bring their own wheelbarrows, shovels and rakes.

Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Over the next three years, Jack Heppner, along with Jack Schellenberg and Ernie Klassen will be coming up with ways to maintain green space without the use of chemicals as part of an initiative that could be used on the City’s 250 acres of public green spaces.

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Head Librarian Retires from Jake Epp After fourteen years as head librarian for the Jake Epp Library, Lorraine Trudeau has officially called it quits. On May 27, the community said goodbye to Trudeau during a special evening event.

“When I came here, I had a vision and passion for the library,” Trudeau recalled.

Trudeau said the $1.6 million dollar library expansion rates at the top of her highlight list.

“It was a hard time, but it was also fun,” Trudeau continued. “It was such a huge accomplishment to prove the need, and prove that resources were lacking as a result of insufficient space.”

Another of her accomplishments was the ability to build partnerships with schools throughout the community. Bringing her passion for kids to the table, Trudeau was able to encourage reading among young readers. Her summer reading program draws hundreds of children to the library each year.

Trudeau admits that she had planned to retire in December 2016 but a recent financial windfall changed that plan. In April, Trudeau became an instant millionaire when she was named the winner of this year’s St. Boniface Hospital Lottery. She chose the $1.1 million cash prize.

She plans to spend her time with her family, including seven grandchildren and four children.

Jake Epp Library Board Chairperson Daryl Braun said the board brought Trudeau in during a time when things were in turmoil.

“She had a great vision for what the library could become,” said Braun.

The Jake Epp Library board has named Carolyn Graham, assistant head librarian as interim head librarian.

The board hopes to have a new librarian hired by September.

June 2015

15

Fifth Annual Out of the Blue Gala Inspires Hope

By Marianne Curtis

South Eastman’s Regional Suicide Prevention Committee is ecstatic over the success of its fifth annual “Out of the Blue Campaign”. On May 7, the organization hosted the “Blue Gala” in St. Pierre-Jolys where schools, communities and individuals were recognized for doing their bit in raising awareness on suicide prevention.

Over two hundred people came out to celebrate another successful year Children’s Entertainer Mr. Mark got a little at the St. Pierre-Jolys Recreation help from the audience during a special song Centre when this year’s campaign about acceptance. wrapped.

Photo by Marianne Curtis Lucy Fouasse, Southern Health’s Healthy Living Coordinator says the gala is a celebration and acknowledgement of the many wonderful activities that took place throughout the region.

“The theme of this year’s campaign was Hope, which is essential in the prevention and recovery of mental illness,” said Fouasse. “In additional to the traditional blue, we added a splash of yellow to represent hope.”

Building on the success from previous years, this year the Out of the Blue campaign targeted high school students, businesses, individuals and community groups of all sorts to get involved and help raise a New Voice for mental health. Thirty-eight organizations, schools, groups, communities and individuals were recognized with awards during the gala Jake Epp Librarian Lorraine Trudeau has retired after fourteen years. for their Out of the Blue inspired initiatives.

Southern Health is the only health authority in Manitoba that hosts Out of the Blue events. The campaign is a regional public awareness and education program that aims to inspire and inform students and youth, residents, businesses and agencies in southeast Manitoba to make positive mental health a priority by creating a new voice for A groundbreaking ceremony was held on April 15 for Last month was one of the greatest mental health and mental illness in our region.

MiRo Enterprises’ new condominium development in months of this entire year. Sure, Out of the Blue is a program developed by the St. Malo.

The 55+ condominiums will be built on Rue there’s only been five months but Southern Health-Santé Sud Suicide Prevention St. Hilaire across from the existing Chalet Malouin. out of those five months, last month Committee with funding from Manitoba Health. The The development will include 30+ units varying in was definitely the greatest. Last committee includes people affected by or concerned sizes from 1,055 sq. ft to 1,355sq. ft and 1,647sq. ft. The month, I “attended” more garage about suicide, community agencies, public health largest unit will have a double garage and the other two sales than I think I have in my whole and mental health organizations, and faith-based options will be singles. All units are designed as onelife! That might be stretching it a little organizations; and is chaired by Kim Heidinger of story bungalows with wheelchair access.

As well, each but it does give you a sense of how the Manitoba Schizophrenia Society. unit will have a private patio. Each unit will be busy I was. wheelchair accessible and without any stairs at all, even Community Garage Sales are these when entering from the attached garage. amazing events where a community Approximately 40 people attended the announces a day when whoever wants to can put on a garage sale. show us several items that he groundbreaking event, including local MLA Cliff Sure, people can put on a garage thought we might be interested in. Graydon. It is expected that work will begin on this sale on any old day but, when they The funny thing was he hardly major project in the near future. have a sale on the communities’ stopped talking to take a breath chosen day, they have a much better before launching into the next item. chance on selling their items due to Before we left, he did pause for a the fact that on a Community Garage moment to ask himself why he was Sale day there are a whole lot more so happy. Of course, he quickly people coming into town with the answered his own question by sole purpose of attending garage saying, “I guess it’s because I’m so sales and potentially scoring some generous.” Thanks to that young good deals. That’s a win-win boy, my wife and I left that sale with st malo 55 situation; the buyer wins because a smile. plus.jpg Art and Eva As a family, my wife and I have they get a deal on an item they Milette, along wanted and the seller wins because been attempting to make going to with Jeannette they get some money and cleared garage sales a learning experience and Leo Roch some space in their home (now they for our children. We give each child turn the sod on can go to the sale down the street two dollars and they are allowed to the grounds to and buy something there to fill the spend it how they want. While be used for the empty space, thereby continuing the Mommy and Daddy will offer development. suggestions and words of wisdom, circle of life).

While not every sale has ultimately, it is up to the child what something for my family, we are a he or she buys. Also, if the child has varied enough bunch so that most any money left over at the end of sales will have something that is of the day, they are allowed to keep the interest to at least one of us. With remainder. It’s been a bit of an eyemovies, books, clothes, crafting opener for me to see how each child supplies and toys abounding handles their money. While my sons throughout people’s garage sales, often come home with left over cash, it’s hard not to see something we my daughter has usually burnt through her amount. I do believe that like.

Some times, a garage sale is she is learning to be more careful memorable for the items it has on with her money because she has display, other times it is the people quickly come to realize that it isn’t a having the sale that stick out for us. good feeling when you want to buy I remember walking up the something but you only have a dime driveway towards one garage when in your pocket.

I think that is a lesson more of us a young boy, who had been sitting there, leapt to his feet and started need to learn.

Until next time, take care and keep talking a mile-a-minute about how excited he was. He then went on to your world spinning.

A Learning Experience

Ground Breaks on 55 Plus Development in St. Malo

16

More Than Just News!

June 2015

St. Pierre-Jolys Students Plan Fire Truck Pull for Cancer Students from the World Issues class of École communautaire Réal-Bérard are organizing a unique fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer society. Dubbing the event, “Pull for cancer”, that consists of pulling a fire truck across the school parking lot.

The fundraiser is taking place at the École communautaire Réal-Bérard school parking lot from 11 am - 2 pm on Saturday, June 6.

“When someone has cancer, the whole family and everyone who loves them has it too,” said Meagan St. Hilaire. “Through this activity, we want to help families in our community and country who are fighting cancer.”

Today, cancer is the leading cause of death among children, and it kills more people than asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis and Aids combined. Each year in North America alone, about 10,000 children are diagnosed with cancer, and 3,000 of them will die.

All groups may have a maximum of 10 members to participate in this activity, and must raise a minimum of $100 per group. There will be prizes awarded to the participants. During the activity, hot dogs and beverages will be sold.

For information, contact Meagan St. Hilaire at firetruckpull2015@gmail.com or 204-712-0025.

Artists Wanted for Judged Art Exhibition

By Marianne Curtis The Eastman Judged Art Exhibition (EJAE) is held throughout the Eastman Region every two years in varying communities. This year’s event will be taking place alongside the Fire & Water Music Festival in Lac du Bonnet.

The biannual exhibition provides artists from the region a way to display and promote their art in a wonderful art gallery setting. The Eastman Judged Art Exhibition includes art from various mediums such as painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, ceramics, sculpture, fibre arts, mixed media, and new for 2015, digital art.

Erika Uustalu-Nicholson is one of the organizers of this year’s event. “How sterile our environment would be without paintings, photographs, sculpture and interesting architecture,” stated Uustalu-Nicholson. “Whether we realize it or not, we need art. We need its diversity, its ability to soothe and heal, question and ignite and as a conduit to funnel our innermost feelings of expression.”

Uustalu-Nicholson said there are eleven categories for artists to participate in, which will be judged by three professional judges in the art field. “Professional Art Judges have been hired to offer written critiques of each and every piece of art and to select the top 3 entries in each of the categories,” she added. On July 31, the Art Gallery will be opened to the public so that they may view the art and participate in the People’s Choice Awards.

The Annual Pinawa Art211/EMAC art sale will also be held during the Exhibition.

This is a wonderful art opportunity for EJAE participants, exhibit viewers, art buyers and music lovers, Uustalu-Nicholson added.

The Eastman Judged Art Exhibition is being held in Lac du Bonnet July 31August 2. The regular deadline for entries is July 17 but entries that are received

by July 1 will be entered into an Early Bird Draw.

If you are an Eastman Artist who would like to submit your art into the 2015 Eastman Judged Art Exhibition, contact either Janice Charko at EJAE2015@outlook.com, 204-345-8483 or Del Lion at dellioncraft118@gmail.com.

Steinbach Holds First Annual Memory Walk

By Marianne Curtis Throughout the month of June, thousands of walkers in Manitoba will raise funds for the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba. This year, for the first time in the history of the Memory Walk, the event will take place locally.

On June 12, individuals and teams are encouraged to meet at the Pat Porter Centre to raise awareness and funds for people living with dementia.

“All the money raised helps the Alzheimer Society provide the necessary programs and services for people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias,” said Leona Doerksen, spokesperson for the Steinbach event. The theme for the first annual Memory Walk in Steinbach is Step it Up for Dementia.

Alzheimer Society of Manitoba reported that last year, over $320,000 was raised across the province. This year’s fundraising goal is almost $350,000.

“We make sure the experience is a good one from the time you register until the end of the walk. We even have an Awards & Appreciation Ceremony in September that is open to all,” said Doerksen. “We work hard to ensure that we show our participants and donors how much we appreciate their support.”

The Memory Walk is the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba’s largest annual, province-wide fundraiser. It has taken place in Manitoba for twenty-three years and experienced significant growth in the past five years in both revenue and the participation rate. This year, more than fifty communities have organized a Memory Walk in the province.

Registration begins at 10 am at the Pat Porter Active Living Center and the walk starts at 11 am. There are two walk choices a” Busy B” 3 km walk down Brandt St., or a “Leisure B” 1.5 km walk down Barkman Ave. Participants can enjoy a free BBQ lunch after the walk sponsored by Earls Meat Market.

Register online at alzheimer.mb.ca and click on the Memory Walk quick link on the right hand side of the screen. You can register as an individual or as a team, create your own web page and collect pledges. For more information, call the Steinbach office at 204-326-5771.

Vita Expects to Blow Lid Off Canada Day Celebrations Organizers are hoping to make this year’s Canada Day celebration bigger and better than previous years. This year’s festivities are scheduled to take place June 30 and July 1.

Spokesperson Michelle Gawronsky says this year’s celebration is a “make it or break it” event after last year’s less than stellar celebration.

“Mother Nature did now cooperate with us last year; the fireworks got cancelled, the parade got cancelled and the rodeo got cancelled due to rain,” Gawronsky recalled. “We are really hoping to get this thing back up and running.

On average, the RM of Stuartburn’s biggest event of the year has drawn in up to 1,900 per year in visitors so it is important for the community to keep the event viable, she added.

One of the biggest changes has been the rodeo. This year Heartland Rodeo will be bringing their top notch competition to the community.

“MRRA has had issues in recent years getting some of the livestock they need and other things so this year, we invited Heartland,” Gawronsky added. “It is costing us twice as much, but this guy brings big crowds.”

The community has also invited Quinton Blair to perform.

There will be a free community pancake breakfast, flea market, car show, bouncers and children’s activities.

However, volunteers are desperately needed.

“If people could commit to at least two hours it would help us immensely,” she says.

Check the full page ad in this issue for more information.

An Artist’s Art & Soul Exhibit Opens The Steinbach Arts Council presents a new exhibit the Art & Soul featuring artists Bev Unger and Olivia Peters running until June 22.

Unger has loved art forever and she will be able to check an item off her bucket list as of May 2015 by having an art exhibit. Unger has taken oil painting lessons in the past, but her work in mixed media and collage is self-taught and purely experimentation she said.

“It is hard to put down on canvas what is in my head, but that is the fun of creating. It might start as one idea but morph into something totally different dependent on what I feel. Most people don’t realize how much courage it takes to display one’s art. It is part of who we are, like getting inside my head and heart.” Unger has recently been inspired by the work of Olivia Peters, so they decided to have a joint exhibit.

Peters has enjoyed art since she can remember. She loved to doodle and sketch when ever and where ever pen and paper were available. Over the past few years she has developed a love for painting using acrylics. She enjoys trying new color combinations, adding texture to pieces and being creative. Art is a great tool for expression commented Peters.

She said that she loves discussing artwork and ideas with Unger and looks forward to joining her in the shared exhibit.

The exhibit can be viewed at The Hall Gallery, 304 Second Street, Steinbach.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Gardenton Ukrainian Festival Celebrates 50 Years The Ukrainian Museum and Village Society Inc. from Gardenton is celebrating its 50th Jubilee at a weekend festival July 11-12.

“There will be lots to see and do for both kids and adults, alike!” said Kelvin Chubaty, one of the organizers. “Sing or dance along with the Ukrainian performers; fill up on delicious traditional Ukrainian fare; and learn about the lives of Manitoba’s Ukrainian settlers with guided tours of the museum and fun, interactive games and activities!”

The Saturday program begins with an on site 11 am outdoor church service followed by over a hundred different Ukrainian dancers, singers, and musicians. There is also special entertainment for children, including rides and bouncers. Saturday evening will feature dancing to the music of the Starlites.

According to Chubaty, the highlight of the weekend will be the unveiling of a 30 ft x 4 ft mural by Frank Saprowich commemorating Gardenton in its earlier days. Everyone is invited to come out for the weekend to enjoy the museum artifacts, weekend activities, delicious Ukrainian food, music and performances.

Admission is $10 per day or $15 for the weekend for adults and free for children under 12. There is a nominal charge for the children’s activities.

Admission for the dance is $15 and hot lunch provided.

For further information on the event, contact Kelvin at 204-425-8197 or Harry at 204-222-8984.

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

4-on-4 Ball Hockey Tournament Offers Thousand in Cash Prizes Combine Canada’s favourite sport, Canada Day festivities and the great outdoors, throw in some fantastic odds for cash giveaways and you end up with a 4-on-4 Ball Hockey Tournament and Social Weekend to be hosted in Richer from June 26-28.

“We were looking at creating something unique and fun for this year’s Canada Day and figured why not add in a popular past-time,” explained one of the organizers, Dan Guetre. “We are hosting both a men’s and a co-ed ball hockey tournament for those 16 years and older

the weekend before Canada Day. On Canada Day itself, we are hosting a tournament for kids 15 and under.”

Registration fees are $150 per team for the Co-ed and Men’s Tournament.

First place cash has been set at $1,000 each for both groups as long as the maximum number of teams for the tournament is met, 20 men teams and 20 co-ed teams. Total prize money for the weekend could reach $3,500.

Registration for the youth tournament on Canada Day is free. Prizes will be awarded to winning teams.

Photo Contest Underway for Eastern Manitoba This summer while exploring eastern Manitoba, capture your special moments with a high-resolution photo of the places, faces, events and activities as part of the contest for a chance to win.

From June 1 – September 15 residents and tourists are invited to highlight the extraordinary places that are little known and of interest to have the best chance to win first Prize in the Eastman Tourism and Community Futures Photo Contest.

Your photo entry may be used in local or regional marketing activities geared towards potential travelers, investors and people considering moving or setting up business in eastern Manitoba.

Prizes include $300 cash plus a 2-night stay for two in a poolside suite at Pinewood Lodge in Whiteshell Provincial Park, followed by $100, $75, $50 and $25 for second to fifth place. Each person can enter the contest up to five times.

To enter the photo must be high resolution at least 300 dpi and sent to habing@cfwr.mb.ca at Community Futures Winnipeg River, 4 Park Avenue (Box 505), Lac du Bonnet, R0E 1A0. A signed Waiver Form and Model Release Form (required if you have a person in your photo) must accompany your contest submission in order to be eligible.

Win a Prize Pack by Becoming an Eco Explorer The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) in Manitoba is working with the Government of Manitoba on their new Eco Explore initiative which encourages people to become homegrown tourists and visit many of the unique and interesting attractions all over the province.

This summer, visit a participating Eco Explore site and learn about the environment and the provincial ecology, then take a photo of yourself at the site and post it on Instagram using the hashtag #ecoexploremb. Visit three sites, post your photos and you will receive an Eco Explorer ecertificate. At the end of the summer, the person who completes the most experiences will qualify to win a prize package from some of the participating organizations.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada is sending Eco Explorers to the Weston Family Tall Grass Prairie Interpretive Centre, located near Stuartburn to go on a Tall-grass Prairie Photo by Bill Stillwell Treasure Hunt in the largest intact block of tall-grass prairie in Canada. Explorers are encouraged to find the natural treasures found in the centre and surrounding habitat, which is home to over 1,000 species of plants and animals, including many that are listed as national or provincial endangered species. Fun and educational clues will take explorers down the Prairie Orchid Hiking Trail, through the mural and artefacts of the Interpretive Centre and into the butterfly garden.

Other participating Eco Explore attractions are Alfred Hole Goose Sanctuary, Assiniboine Park and Zoo, Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail, Scanterbury, Churchill Northern Studies Centre Learning Vacations, Fort Whyte Alive Bison Safari, Living Prairie Museum, Narcisse Snake Dens, Oak Hammock Marsh, Spruce Woods Park Centre, The Manitoba Museum Lake Winnipeg: Shared Solutions, Whiteshell Fish Hatchery and Whiteshell Provincial Park.

Registration packages are available by emailing 4on4@simplyconnected.ca, visiting the Richer Community Club Facebook page or downloading the registration form from richerrodeo.ca.

“In addition to the tournament, we will be hosting a beer gardens all weekend, a Saturday evening outdoor social, and fireworks,” said Guetre. “Richer will be busy as we are also having a Suds, Spud and Steak Fundraising Dinner at the Richer Inn on Saturday night to raise the final funds for a new playground structure at the Dawson Trail Park.”

Guetre mentioned that the Canada Day youth tournament will also have entertainment and a Canada Day cake to cut up and give away along with a second set of fireworks launched.

“We want to thank Canadian Culture and Heritage for a generous contribution towards this event,” said Guetre.

June 2015

17

Blumenort Opens New Splash Pad at Fun and Fair Days Organizers of the annual Blumenort Fun and Fair Days are gearing for another spectacular fair taking place June 26 and 27.

Blumenort Fun and Fair Days Coordinator Karen Doyle Hopkins is looking forward to this year’s event. “Things are really coming together for the fair! I’ve sent out all the confirmations to the bands that will be with us. It is going to be amazing, you don’t want to miss out,” Hopkins said. “We have so many other fun things planned as well.”

One of the highlights of the weekend is expected to be the grand opening of the community’s new splash pad built with the monies raised by Blumenort Recreation of $55,000, the RM of Hanover funds received from the Hydro Bipole III Community Development Initiative program of $160,000, a Ward 3 contribution of $10,000, the LUD of Blumenort funds of $20,000 and a municipality ten year debenture up to $255,000.

There will be displays set up with Prairie Exotics, the Red River Mutual Fire Safety Truck, MPI Mini Car Town, the Community Volunteer award presentation, Stony Brook dancers, and Flippers gymnastics.

“The Bomber Fan Experience Truck! We are still in negotiations with Buzz but the truck will be here for sure,” Hopkins added.

There will also be a parade which will include a bike contest for the kids.

However due to traffic concerns the orignal route had to be changed.

“The parade route for the Blumenort Fair has had to change due to traffic restrictions. There is no way around this,” Hopkins explained. “We are not allowed to cross the 311. Therefore, we will only be parading around “old” Blumenort and not heading to the school and park.”

Anyone interested in volunteering can email blumenortfunfairday@mts.net or call phone 326-9013.

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More Than Just News!

June 2015

Student Job Centre Opens in Niverville

By Marianne Curtis Students looking for a summer job and employers looking to hire youth are encouraged to contact the Niverville Manitoba Youth Job Centre.

Amanda Bernardin, the organizer and Youth Engagement Leader for the Niverville Manitoba Youth Job Centre (MYJC) is excited to help match students to employers. “I am looking forward to a great summer in our communities,” said Bernardin.

“We encourage students and youth over the age of 12 to register with our office,” Bernardin added.

“If you are seeking full-time, parttime, or casual employment, need help with your resume, or want to expand your job search or interview skills, just drop by and we will be happy to work with you.”

The MYJC is designed to meet the employment needs of students and youth, as well as the needs of employers who have vacant positions to fill, by offering a free referral service to those who wish to hire an eager, hard-working young person. Employers of all types, business and household can take advantage of the free services the Centre provides. Only the most qualified candidates are referred, and the employer always has the final hiring decision.”

Centres across Manitoba are in their 40th year of successfully supporting youth employment in Manitoba.

Vita’s Susydka Ukrainian Dancers Celebrate 35 Years On May 23, the community of Vita and surrounding areas came out to watch the Susydka Ukrainian Dances take to the stage for their 35th anniversary recital.

Michelle Thibodeau, Susydka Dance Club President said the dancers had worked hard since September and could not wait to show everyone what they had been working on.

“We had such tremendous support at the recital at the school, and again at the Dinner and Dance held at Vita Hall!” exclaimed Thibodeau excitedly. “We want to thank everyone who came out and supported us as we celebrated such an amazing milestone! Here’s to the next 35 years!”

After the show, everyone was invited to Vita Hall for a traditional dinner and dance fundraiser with music performed by Ukrainian band Kalyna.

Amanda Bernardin is this year’s Youth Engagement Leader for the Niverville Manitoba Youth Job Centre.

The Niverville Manitoba Youth Job Centre (MYJC) is sponsored by Manitoba Children and Youth Opportunities in partnership with The Town of Niverville, and serves the communities of Niverville, Lorette, Landmark, Ile Des Chenes, New Bothwell, St. Adolphe, St. Agathe, Glenlea, and Grande Pointe.

Bernardin and her staff will be holding an Open House and Parent Information Night on June 4 from 6 pm - 7:30 pm. The public is invited to drop in and enjoy cookies and refreshments.

Anyone with questions or employment needs, can call 204-3886793 or to stop by the MYJC office at 86 Main Street, Niverville. Regular office hours are 9 am – 1 pm and 1:455 pm, Monday to Friday.

Niverville Teen Wins a Prairie Promise Award

By Marianne Curtis A young woman from Niverville was recently honoured for her volunteerism when she received an award during this year’s “Women of Distinction” award ceremony.

On May 6, Niverville Collegiate student Lauren Wiebe was one of five young women nominated for the Prairie Award of Promise. Nominated by Danielle Cadieux, Wiebe is known among her teachers and peers as a remarkable young leader and a dedicated volunteer.

“Lauren Wiebe exhibits commitment, discipline and a solid work ethic in every aspect of her life,” stated Cadieux. She’s currently Co-President of the Student Council at Niverville Collegiate, and in that position she organizes activities to heighten the excitement of going to school, including spirit weeks, food drives, outdoor activity days and fundraisers.

She started an “Adopt a Grandparent” program where she matches empathetic students with residents of a personal care home. She facilitates a mental health program focused on suicide prevention strategies for teens and young adults.

The Prairie Award of Promise award is given to a young woman enrolled in a school outside the Winnipeg City limits, who will graduate from Grade 12 in 2015. Nominees must have made a significant contribution to her school and community, demonstrated scholastic achievement and shows promise of

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Niverville Collegiate student, Lauren Wiebe (right) accepts the Prairie Award of Promise that includes a $2,000 scholarship from Sharon Vogel a representative of Manitoba Public Insurance.

becoming a Woman of Distinction. She should also be a role model for other young women.

The award recipient receives a $2,000 scholarship on behalf of Manitoba Public Insurance.

In March, Wiebe was also named as a recipient of a Loran scholarship valued up to $100,000, which includes a matching tuition waiver at one of 25 partner universities along with an $8,000 stipend.

Runners Lace Up Niverville Athlete Earns Scholarship in Steinbach A Niverville Collegiate soccer star

Josh Guenther set the pace for the remaining five hundred and fifty participants.

By Marianne Curtis Over five hundred and fifty people participated in the first “Let’s Run – Steinbach” event which took place May 23. The event, formerly known as “Run for Mom” drew about four hundred less runners than other years despite soaring temperatures.

For the past seven years, the event was known as “Run for Mom” and took place on Mother’s Day. Organizer Greg Penner said the name change better reflects the run’s purpose and the new date and time is more traditional for running events and easier on the organization’s team and participants.

The annual event consists of four sections including a 5 km and 10 km walk and run along with a Kids Run and Mini Kids Run. The top finishers in the 10 km were thirty-one year old Stephanie Gerbrand, who finished first last year, along with thirty-three year old Les Friesen. The top 5 km finishers were Josh Guenther of Grunthal and Kristen DeHaan of Steinbach.

Seventeen year old Sami Byaruhanga was first in the male 17 years and under group while Liyu Reimer was the was first female in the same category. Dallas Schultz crossed the line first in the 40 years and older, and Anne Barkman was the first female.

The oldest participant of the entire event Liam Zigmiller finished the 5 km race in 00:36:42.539. He is 99 years old.

Funds raised during the event go to support the Steinbach Family Resource Centre, KidSport and the Cancer Care Centre in Steinbach.

was one of five top athletes in the province to be presented with a scholarship from Manitoba High Schools Athletic Association (MHSAA).

On May 27, the MHSAA and Red River Co-op presented scholarships to five high school student athletes who have shown leadership and integrity. Barak Doell of Niverville Collegiate was named as one of the recipients.

The grade 12 student is a member of the Student Council and helps with numerous school activities and fundraisers while maintaining Barak Doel. an 85% academic average. Doell participates in soccer and he captained the volleyball team to a Zone Championship. He was also the captain of his basketball team where he modeled strong play, sportsmanship and dedication, an active member of the badminton team and track and field team. He is a Junior Youth Leader at his church where he runs and organizes events.

Each year, MHSAA and Red River Co-op presented scholarships to five high school student athletes who have shown leadership and integrity.

Nominations were invited from schools in the Red River Co-op trading area. Each recipient was awarded a $1,000 scholarship to be used towards post secondary education.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

COMMUNITY EVENTS

More Than Just News!

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 EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT TO EDITOR@DAWSONTRAIL.CA OR FAX 204-422-8548 at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC Buffalo Point the community, please put on a COPP vest and show your License # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 Buffalo Days – Weeklong festivities from Saturday, July 11 - support or help with administrative duties. Can you donate an or doreen@spmf.ca.

Saturday July 18. Family Fun Days, Fireworks, Firedancer, hour per month? Contact Trevor, 204-955-3434 Pancake Breakfast, Family & Community Golf Tournament, Lorettecopp@gmail.com.

Sprague Family Games Night and lots more. Contact 204-437-2133, Sprague & District Historical Museum - Opens on Saturday, buffalopoint.ca to volunteer or more information.

New Horizons Seniors - Play cards, Scrabble, Wii and more. June 6 every Saturday and Sunday from 1 -5 pm during June Drop in Tuesdays 1-5 pm at Foyer Notre Dame Lorette 12 – August and by appointment from June – September 30.

Carrick St.Amant Ave. Contact Iris 204-878-3552.

Closed on Sunday June 6. Explore life as it was in the early Carrick Days – On Saturday, August 9 – Sunday August 10 at days. Free Admission Donations Accepted. Contact 204-437the Community Centre. An old time town picnic and BBQ. Marchand 2210, 204-437-2209 or 204-437-4686.

Contact 204-429-2113.

Marchand Ranch Rodeo – On Saturday, July 25 to Sunday, July 26 beginning at 1 pm both days with a dinner and dance Sprague & District Annual Opening Picnic - On Sunday, June Gardenton Saturday evening.

14 from 1 -5 pm. Visit the beautiful old and new displays and Celebrating the 50th Jubilee - at the Ukrainian Museum & bring a friend. Visit the New Historical Full Gospel Mission Village weekend festival on Saturday, July 11- Sunday, July Morris Church & Our Veterans’ Plaque. Free Admission, free lunch.

12. Saturday begins with 11 am outdoor church service, Spud and Steak BBQ Fundraiser – On Saturday June 13, starts Donations Accepted. afternoon a hundred different Ukrainian dancers, singers, and at 4 pm, dinner at 6 pm at the Morris Multiplex (Assembly musicians with all types of entertainment for children including Hall), Cost $25 per person, $5 kids under 5, deadline Monday, St. Adolphe rides and bouncers. Saturday features dancing to the music of June 1 from Access Credit Unions in Morris and Lowe Farm or St. Adolphe Curling Club Golf Tournament – On Saturday, the Starlites. Weekend highlight unveiling of a 30 ft. x 4 ft. Rosenort Co-op. For family and Roger Chartier who was June 6 at the La Verendrye Golf course. Cost $100. Registration mural by Frank Saprowich commemorating Gardenton in its diagnosed with a brain tumour. After 20 months away from deadline Saturday, May 30. Entry fee includes bus ride to and earlier days. Enjoy the museum artifacts, delicious Ukrainian home, surgery, radiation and physio, Roger is now home. from golf course, round of golf and cart, supper, prizes and a food or the beer garden. Cost Adults $10/day or $15 for the Proceeds go towards an outdoor wheelchair ramp, a motorized great time. Contact Marc Lemoine 204-883-2661 or 204-479weekend. Children under 12 free admission. Nominal charge wheelchair and an accessible bathroom shower. Silent Auction, 8666. for children’ activities. Dance $15 and hot lunch provided. dinner, bar. Contact 204-746-2680 or 204-882-2188.

Contact Kelvin at 204-425-8197 or Harry at 204-222-8984.

50+ Fitness Classes - Every Monday & Friday at 9:30 – 10:30 Manitoba Stampede & Exhibition – On Thursday, July 16 – am. Focus on strength, flexibility and range of motion Grande Pointe Sunday, July 19 at the exhibition grounds. Bull riding, bronco- movement on a variety of equipment, such as weights, stretch Rock’n The Park – On Saturday, June 6 at Grande Pointe Park, busting, tie down roping, bareback riding, steer wrestling, tubing and stability balls. Wednesdays 1 - 2 pm workout is for 423 Bernat Rd. Annual community fundraising event featuring ladies barrel racing, and team roping, thoroughbred chariot slow flow yoga inspired strength, flexibility, balance and evening entertainment by North America’s Premiere Show and pony chariot and chuck wagon racing. Youth Stars Manitoba relaxation. Pre-purchase 10 classes for $40, 5 classes for $20 Band Free Ride, children’s entertainer Aaron Burnett and Talent Competition, Agriculture Fair and competition dairy or drop in for $5 per workout. Special deal purchase 30 classes special guest appearances by Scheme -A-Dream’s - Elvis and shows and equestrian, commercial displays, petting zoo, music, $120 get 8 free. Instructor Janice Burnett, a certified fitness Marilyn. Tickets include an afternoon Show n’ Shine car show, concerts and a Midway. leader. Contact mjburn@shaw.ca. fireworks and supper. Beer gardens will be open throughout the event. Cost Adult $25 and Children $10. Advance tickets New Bothwell Weekly Bingo – On Tuesday nights at the St. Adolphe $20 before May 30. Contact gpha1994@gmail.com, Lynn Cheese & Wine Festival – On Saturday, June 6 from 7 – 10 Community Club. Doors open at 6 pm, 6:55 pm - Speedo 204-293-7473 or Doreen 204-256-3793. pm at the Community Centre. Cheese and wine sampling. Cost Game, 7 pm - Early Bird Games, 7:30 pm - Regular Games. We tickets $25. Contact 1-800-361-9542 or email hope to see you there! Proceeds will support the Community Grunthal info@bothwellcheese.com for info.

Club.

Hanover Ag Society Rodeo - On Saturday, July 11 – Sunday, July 12 and beginning at 12 pm both days at Steve’s Livestock Niverville Fitness Classes –Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 8 - 9 Transport Rodeo Arena. Many events and activities planned. Olde Tyme Country Fair - 20th Anniversary – From Friday, June pm at the St. Adolphe School Gym. Include cardio fitness, 12 at 6 pm – Saturday, June 13 at 11:45 pm. Street fair includes resistance training, flexibility and balance training. Monthly Hadashville country singers, Brett Kissel and Jordan McIntosh, freestyle schedule is provided. All fitness levels are welcome. Options Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville motocross, heavy metal jousting, fireworks, and much, much are $175 - 35 x $5 per class + 5 classes free, $120 - 20 x $6 Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years more. Cost $25. per class or drop in $7 per class. Certified fitness leader Janice old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great Burnett. mjburn@shaw.ca. stress release and have an excellent workout at the same The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club –Meets every Monday at time. Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to become St. Malo about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or a better speaker, run meetings that are more effective or AGM Friends of the Park – On Wednesday June 10 at 7 pm at KSTA.academy@gmail.com. develop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Club is the place to Chalet Moulin. Volunteers needed, urgently seeking board start. Contact Sheryl Berglund, Sberglund4@shaw.ca. members and important information session regional Fisheries Ile-des-Chênes Biologist Derek Kroeker presents information and answers on Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturday GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced the local fish population. Refreshments and snacks served. of every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn about loss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learn Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive Blessed about the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to register Open Water Clinic & Course – New this year to the St. Malo Rose Petals and other Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’s or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com.

Triathlon. Register for an open water clinic and/or course place of miracles. Contact Corinna 204-878-4908 or email her preview on Saturday, June 20. Registration closes on Thursday, at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for more info and register. Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six. June 18 at 11:59 pm. Choice of clinics. Open Water Swim Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the Clinic from 9 - 11 am for $25.00, Transitions and Bike/Run Kleefeld lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.) Course from 11:30 am - 1:30 pm, $25 or Open Water Swim Honey Festival & Canadian Chili Cook Off Finals – On Friday, Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along Clinic, Transitions and Bike/Run Course 9 am - 1:30 pm, $40.

August 7 – Saturday, August 8 at the Kleefeld Park. Free with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms Contact Jared from Tribalistic at jared.w.spier@gmail.com.

Pancake Breakfast followed by the Parade and Chili Cook off visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com.

Competition. Play land Of Milk & Honey carnival, bouncy park Sponge Puck Hockey – On Wednesdays at 8 pm at the arena. for all ages, toys, crafts, and so much more. Saturday evening Prawda Come out and play for fun. Contact Gilles 204-347-5079. starts with concert and ends with Fireworks.

Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean St. Pierre-Jolys Community Playgroup - for parents, caregivers and children runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondays Community Garage Sale – On Saturday, June 6 from 9 am ages 0-5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs and and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact 3 pm. Contact Rachelle 204-433-7002 for more information. snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the Kleefeld Wendy 204-348-2433.

Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013.

Frog Follies & Agricultural Fair – On Thursday July 9 – Sunday, Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at July 12. Jammed packed with events. Frog follies, bingo, music, La Broquerie the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks Chamber of Commerce dinner, children’s, farm & 4-H activities Nabcep Certified Solar Course – From Monday, June 8 – provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290. and agricultural fair.

Friday, June 12 at the La Broquerie Hotel. 5-Day Solar PV Design & Installation. Cost $1,260 includes GST. Covers Richer Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression, bipolar, fundamental knowledge and reviews the design, installation, 4on4 Ball Hockey Tournaments – On Friday, June 26 - Sunday, post partum mood disorders support group meetings held on and evaluation of residential and commercial solar June 28 and Wednesday, July 1 at the Dawson Trail Park. the last Monday of each month at 7 pm at the Chalet Malouin photovoltaic (PV) systems. Site evaluation tools and Thousands of dollars in Cash Prizes. Download registration boardroom. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital. techniques, solar electric component operation and connection, form from richerrodeo.ca or contact Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228. system design and sizing, and standard requirements and 4on4@simplyconnected.ca. Registration for men’s and copractices. Contact solaracademy.com, Lorena Mitchell ed tournaments is $150. Registration for the youth tournament Ste. Agathe Lorena@evolvegreen.ca, 866-538-6583 Ext 4, Winnipeg Solar is free.

Cheyenne Summer Festival - From Friday July 17- Saturday Training Centre.

July 18. Kick-off parade; many live musical performances, Suds, Spud and Steak Fundraiser – On Saturday, June 27 at children’s’ entertainers and activities, Family Baseball Saint-Jean-Baptiste Days – From Saturday, June 27 to Sunday, the Richer Inn followed by an evening Outdoor Social held at Tournament, beer garden and food court, Steak Supper night June 28. Begins with Pancake Breakfast at 8 am on Saturday, the Dawson Trail Park. Tickets for the dinner are $25, for the hosted by Lucky Luc’s Bar and Grill, and fireworks display. slo-pitch tournament, beer gardens, evening dance social and Dinner & Social - $30 or just the Social - $10. Tickets are Conatct Jöel Gagnon 204-791-1202 or jgagnon@lifeinc.ca. fire works. Sunday church service children’s activities, family available from businesses around town and Richer Community ball tournament and parade.

Club members. Visit the Richer Community Club Facebook Ste. Anne page for more info.

Lions Club Family Kite Festival - On Saturday, June 20 from 10 Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de Santé am - 5 pm at the old #12 Soccer Park beside the fire hall in from Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Services and programs Seine River Services for Seniors - Program Contact Juliette Ste. Anne. Don’t have a kite, buy one on site. Hot dogs and for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, Rowan Community Resource Coordinator at 204-424-5575 for refreshments, music, face painting, henna tattoos and more. foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard Richer services or email labseinerss@gmail.com.

Fun for everyone. Contact Rick at 204-430-6820. maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games.

Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan, 204- Richer Roughstock Rodeo – On Friday, August 7 – Sunday, Wii Bowling Games – Every Monday afternoon at 1:30 pm at 424-5285 or labseinerss@gmail.com. Shopping Trips to August 9 at the park. Friday Night BULL-nanza, and cutting the Club Jovial. Great time to join even if you have never Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, horse competition, saddle bronc, team roping, barrel racing, played. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285. leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring music, main stage live concert, a family fun zone, entertainment International Cooking Classes - On the third Wednesday of the Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. for all ages, a trading post, exciting intermission shows, a month from 6 - 8:30 pm. Learn to cook authentic and original Cost $10. weekend designed for the entire family. foods from Columbia, India, Iraq, Philippines and Bolivia. Preregister with the Town of Ste. Anne at 204-422-5293 or email Lorette Richer Recovery AA - Group meets Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 pm town@steannemb.ca.

Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) – Volunteer opportunities. at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Paul at 204-422-7673.

If you go for walks, bike rides, jogs or even just drive around

June 2015

19

Computer Courses - Free at the bibliothèque Ste. Anne Library. building, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email For appointment, contact Harlee at 204-392-0568. eastmanmss@mts.net Ste. Anne Cultural Committee - Invites artists of all kinds to their weekly open houses at 112 Centrale Ave. on Tuesdays from 9 - 11:30 am and Wednesdays from 7 - 8:30 pm. These gatherings are to bring artists together to work on and discuss their craft and there is no cost to attend. Contact Diane at 204422-9599 or email cccsa@mymts.net.

MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living with multiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursday evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place apartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca.

Seine River Services for Seniors – Invite to all seniors interested in the Wii Bowling game to come, try it out and have fun. On Monday at 1 pm, at Le Club Jovial. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local services or e-mail labseinerss@gmail.com.

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

Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Centre on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, from 6:30 - 8 pm. Come for a visit and see what we are all about. Over 21,000 books including audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, large print books and magazines plus they can import books from any library in Manitoba. Special requests can be made to the librarian, Brandi Schmitz at 204-878 - 9488, bibliotachelibrary.com or in person.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support groups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns.

Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Jake Epp Library from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

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

Steinbach Pre-Registration Day for SAC Fall Programs – On Thursday June 4 from 3-8 pm at the Steinbach Arts Centre, 304 Second Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the second and St. One day only for 10% off on all programs 304 Second fourth Wednesdays of every month at the Magnolia Restaurant.

Street.

Contact 204-326-2313.

Lions Car Show – On Sunday, June 7 begins at 10 am at the Carillon Toastmasters - meetings are open to adults who want Mennonite Heritage Village. Antique and restored show to improve their leadership and communication skills. Thursdays vehicles displayed on our village streets. Cost $10. at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, Contact Sheryl at 204-326-7628 or Irene at 204-424-5737.

Getting Your Food Product into a Grocery Store workshop - On Monday, June 8 from 4:30 - 9 pm at All D’s Restaurant, 104 – Steinbach Al-Anon Program - Meetings held on Wednesdays 320 Main St. Cost $20 (includes one meal per workshop). at 7:30 pm. Steinbach United Church, 541 Main St. Ring the Contact to register at MAFRD Steinbach GO Office, 204-392- front door bell.

7268 or email joy.lorette@gov.mb.ca.

Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group starts at 4:30 pm Oil Recycling Day – On Wednesday, June 10 from 9 am – 5 at Steinbach Family Resource Centre B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact pm at the Landfill, 104 Hanover Road East. For every 5 litres 204-346-0413. of used oil you bring, receive a coupon for 1 litre of Co-op 5w30 Sonic Silver Motor Oil free. Enjoy a hot dog and drink for $2 Songs and Sweets – On Thursday, May 28 at 7 pm, at the between 11am – 2pm.

Shevchenko School. An evening filled with songs and sweets!

The Senior Choir from Shevchenko School presents a variety of Memory Walk - On Friday, June 12 beginning at the Pat Porter music from all different genres. Cost $5.

Active Living Centre at 10 am in support of the Alzheimer Society Manitoba. The walk includes a community BBQ at 12 pm beside Vita Earls Meat Market on Main Street. Contact Leona Doerksen for Hwy 201 Garage Sale - On Saturday, June 6 community garage information and register yourself or your team 204-326-5771 sales along Highway 206. Conact 204-425-7765. or alzse@alzheimer.mb.ca.

Canada Day Celebrations & Rodeo - On Tuesday, June 30 and Annual MHV/Eden Tractor Trek Fundraiser - On Saturday, June Wednesday, July 1 at the Shevchenko School grounds.

13 at the Mennonite Heritage Village. Register a tractor and Featuring pancake Breakfast, Heartland Rodeo events bull enjoy a leisurely ride through the countryside with friends. riding, roping, bronc riding, barrel racing, car show, music and Free admission. concert with Quinton Blair, children’s activities, fireworks and much more.

Strategy Game Night – On the 1st Saturday from 12 – 5 pm and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6 – 8:30 pm, every Woodridge month at the Jake Epp Library. Come down to play some games. T.O.P.S -Taking Off Pounds Sensibly - On the second Wednesday Bring a friend, your strategies and games. Test your skills and of every month at the Community Club. For club hours of have fun. Contact Madison Friesen, 204-326-6841, operation, contact Stan 204-429-2253. programs@jakeepplibrary.com, librarian@jakeepplibrary.com.

The Mobile Clinic – Is onsite on the third Thursday of every month from 9 am – 4 pm at the Community Club. Contact for Steinbach & Area Garden Club meeting - On Monday, June 29, appointments 1-855-644-3515 or southernhealth.ca.

Let’s Celebrate Gardening- Club BBQ, and member garden tour, displaying outstanding local gardens. Contact Zhoda sagardenclub.com or call 204-326-2396.

Spring into Summer Dance – On Saturday, June 13 at the Community Hall from 8 pm-1 am. Night Lunch served and DJ Healthy Eating Cooking Classes - Every other week on music. Tickets $10 at the door or Pre-Sale contact Denise 204Thursdays at South East Helping Hands. No Charge, enjoy a 392-3714 or Jeff  204-371-5352. meal with other community members and learn how to plan & prepare healthy meals on a budget. Contact and register General 204-326-2599 or southeasthelpinghands@gmail.com.

Join the Farm & Food Discovery Centre - For many exciting family and educational events taking place over the spring Adult Book Club - Tuesdays from 7 – 9 pm. Bring book and summer months. Incredible Insects Investigation - On suggestions or peruse our book lists. Meet some other book Saturday, July 11, 10 am- 12pm. Search for insects in the tall lovers too and bring a friend. At the Jake Epp Library 255 grass and study their body parts under a microscope. Make a Elmdale St. Contact Tracey Pankratz 204-326-6841 ‘buggy’ vegetable snack. For children aged three to ten. Dairy programming@jakeepplibrary.com.

Day, On Thursday, August 6, from 10 am – 2 pm. Visit the dairy barn to learn how cows are milked. Turn cream into butter and Ladies Get Fit Classes - Sponsored by Eastman Immigrant strawberry, chocolate or vanilla ice cream. All ages welcome.

Services, every Wednesday at 7:15 pm at the Woodlawn School Pizza Party – On Tuesday, August 25 from 10 am - 1:30 pm. gym. Aerobic, circuit training, weights, mats and stretching Discover how ingredients for a pizza are created. Prepare your exercises. Suitable for all ages and levels of fitness. Register own mini pizza for lunch and bake it in our outdoor stone oven. contact Lois 204-346-6609.

All ages welcome.

Spaces limited for all events. RSVP to reserve your spot. Contact Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the United Church of 204-883-2524 or email ffdc@umanitoba.ca. Full event details Steinbach, 541 Main St. Registration for girls 5-17. Develop and admission rates for individual events found at ffdc.ca. personal values and well-being, self-respect and respect for others; promote fun, friendship, adventure and challenges Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- On Tuesday, through new experiences; develop leadership and decision- June 9 and September 15 from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Join us for making skills; give service to the community; value the natural a great day of fun and friendship. Visit McPhillips Street Station environment. in the morning and Club Regent in the afternoon. Starting at 8:30 am pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village.

Green Drinks South Eastman - South Eastman Transition Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cash giveaways Initiative presents Green Drinks South Eastman. On the 3rd every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from the casinos for Tuesday of every month at 7 pm at Lecoka, 8B - Brandt Street. those wishing to play. Overnight trips to South Beach Casino Drop in and discuss sustainable living. Contact Folklorama are also available. Contact Marilyn at 204-326rebecca_hiebert@yahoo.com.

4939 for more information and to reserve your seat.

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

Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for family and friends of people with mental health issues are held the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden East

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More Than Just News!

June 2015

Community Leaders Receive Volunteer Award

Provencher MP Ted Falk along with Helen Bially, Gina Davis, Brenda Dyck, Murray Gillespie, Andrea Kiesman, Bill King, Irene Kroeker, Bev Mason, Donna Mae Unverrich, and Tammy Welsh pose for a photo at the Provencher Volunteer Service Award ceremony.

By Marianne Curtis On May 21, ten volunteers from throughout Provencher were presented with special awards from Provencher MP Ted Falk at the Provencher Volunteer Service Award ceremony.

“I was honoured to recognize the hard working volunteers from southeastern Manitoba.

Our part of the province is home to many communities who are very generous with both their time and money,” stated Falk. “In fact, our communities are among the most generous in Canada and I wanted to take the time to recognize some of the people who help make this possible.”

Earlier in the year, Falk asked people from across Provencher to submit names of those who faithfully served their communities as a dedicated volunteer. The biographies that were submitted for each person were then sent to a committee made up of six former Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal winners.

“As Diamond Jubilee winners, these are people who know what it means to give back to their community,” Falk continued. “Each submission was scored by the committee members individually, and the scores were then pooled together to come up with the top ten.”

Those top 10 were presented with the Provencher Volunteer Service Medallion and a certificate of recognition.

“It was truly an honour to recognize these hard working and dedicated volunteers,” Falk continued. “I know that all of us here in Provencher appreciate everything that they have done for us.”

The ten volunteers recognized include Helen Bially, Tolstoi; Gina Davis, Vassar; Brenda Dyck, Woodmore; Murray Gillespie, Dugald; Andrea Kiesman, Springfield; Bill King, Morris; Irene Kroeker, Steinbach; Bev Mason, West Hawk Lake; Donna Mae Unverrich, Dominion City and Tammy Welsh from Anola.

Richer Rodeo Books Doc “Johnson” The Richer Roughstock Rodeo has booked Trevor Johnson to headline the Concert and Social on the Saturday night.

Along with holding down a full time veterinarian career at Clearspring Vet, Johnson is an accomplished country performer who has released a few original songs and plays many modern country cover songs. He has even received radio play for his original songs.

The 2015 rodeo takes place from August 7-9 starting with the Manitoba Cutting Horse competition during the day on Friday, the wildest Bullnanza on Friday evening and an outdoor cowboy social.

Saturday and Sunday is packed with HRA Rodeo action, lots of activities for the kids and entire family and the Trevor Johnson concert Saturday evening.

For more information, visit www.richerrodeo.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

June 2015

21

Seven Injured in Ste. Agathe Collision

On May 23, seven people sustained injuries during a morning collision at the intersection of Highway #75 and Provincial Road 305 in Ste. Agathe.

St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP and Ritchot Fire Crews were called to the intersection around 10:15 am. STARS transported two people with serious injuries to Health Sciences Centre and the remaining five were transported to a local hospital under precautionary measures.

The cause for the accident has not been released yet, although RCMP said that alcohol was not a factor in the crash.

22

June 2015

How Do I make Decisions?

Proverbs 11:14... For lack of guidance a nations falls, but victory is won through many advisers (NIV) Proverbs 15:22... Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed. (NIV) Psalm 119:105...Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. (NIV) How do we determine what to believe and think? How do we determine the right choice to make? Or the right course of action to pursue? Is it possible to get insight about these matters from a higher power? Many people think so and attempt to do just that in many ways.

My encouragement to all of us is to receive guidance from God’s already revealed will. We find that will in His written Word. We come to comprehend that will as His Spirit gives us understanding of the written revelation and as the Holy Spirit applies that Word to our lives. The Word of God is given to us as a confirmation and revelation of the will of God. It protects us from hearing the wrong voice.

Many people do many strange things and then blame it all on the Lord. They say, “The Lord told me to do what I did.” A written revelation of God can keep us from making many common mistakes. If I would submit myself to the guidance of God, then I have to build my life on the word of God. I should read it, study it, and meditate on it. I ought to apply it to my life by discerning the moral principles I am called to live by.

Jesus illustrated the absolute necessity of living by the Word of God in Matthew 7:24-27. There He paints the picture of two houses that are exactly alike, except for their foundations. One is built on a rock, and the other on sand. The storms come, and the house built on the sand falls while the house built on the rock stands firm. Jesus declares that the Christian who hears and obeys the Word of God is like the house on the rock, which stood firm. If I build my life on His Word, being guided by the moral principles it contains... then I will stand when the storms of life come.

As we prayerfully read the Bible, often the Holy Spirit will speak to us in a special way. By enlightening our minds and applying the passage under consideration to our specific situation, the Holy Spirit will bear witness to God’s revealed Word and confirm the application of the Word of God to our hearts. That witness of the Holy Spirit will be in complete harmony with the revealed Word of God. The leading of the Holy Spirit will give us that understanding of the Word of God. Sometimes God uses circumstances, but I must be careful because circumstances are tricky at best. I cannot count on circumstances alone. I cannot count on the Bible falling open to the right passage. If I toss a coin, it may just as easily come up heads or tails. We must be careful. What we see is not always, what we get.

A clear safeguard in Scripture is to consult godly people.

Notice, I said godly people. This is not flippantly consulting anyone. It is about being sure the person or persons I consult have a solid stable walk with God. Otherwise, I might simply get the opinions of others. Someone else’s opinion may be no better than my own. There is nothing wrong in asking them to pray for me. Many times, their wisdom will guide me away from making a poor decision. God will use people to speak in wisdom to us.

God will lead His people as we give ourselves to understand His Word and be open to the Holy Spirit. God makes possible for you and me to develop into sound decision makers, base our choices on principles and spiritual wisdom grounded in the Word of God... the Bible.

The Holy Spirit will lead us into the truth as we act on what we already know to do. It does no good to steer a parked car, and God will not guide a Christian who is not moving. I must get moving, seek the Lord, be open to the Holy Spirit’s leading, study His Word, and He will give us His guidance... 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 will fulfill my heart’s desire. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will honour Your Name.” Amen.

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

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June 2015

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The Future Holds Joy and Anticipation Christian and Jews all over the world are waiting for the coming of God’s Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Christians recognized His first coming 2000 years ago, so they are anticipating His Second Coming. Is Jesus Christ really coming back?

There were scoffers in Bible times, just like there are today.

II Peter 3:4 says, “Where is the promise of his coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.” Many today have believed the lie of evolution, which takes more faith to believe than the Bible’s account of creation. So very few even believe there is a God, let alone the idea that He is coming back. What a person believes does not change the reality of what God has

planned in the near future. But what you believe will definitely change your part and participation in these future events.

When Christ was nearing the end of His ministry here on earth, He told His disciples in John 14:1-3, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go and prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I WILL COME AGAIN and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” In Revelation 22:20 Christ said, “Surely I come quickly.” The “quickly” did not mean He would come soon after this prediction was given. Rather it refers to the quickness of His coming, when it finally does occur. Matthew 24:36 says, “But of that day and hour knoweth no man…” but I Thessalonians 5 indicates we can know the times and the seasons related to Christ’s coming back. Are we getting close to that time?

Luke 21:25, 26 says, “And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.” If you read II Timothy 3:1-5 and Matthew 24 you’ll think you’re reading a commentary on today’s society.

If a person honestly looks around, he would have to admit something new and different is coming. The Bible says this is all in preparation for Christ’s Second Coming. There are terrible judgments predicted, but there is also a way to avoid these. Seven years before Christ’s actual presence on earth, He has promised to remove all Christians and take them to heaven. We call this the “rapture” and it is recorded in I Thessalonians 4:13-18. It’s also known in the Bible (KJV) as His “appearing.”

Are you ready if Christ’s “rapture” or “appearing” should come in the near future? If you have recognized yourself as a sinner, and then put your faith in Jesus Christ to forgive you and make you His child, then you don’t need to be afraid. In fact, you can look forward to the future with joy and anticipation. Christ is coming soon!

If you have any questions, contact me at dmillar@nlis.ca. God bless.

New Bothwell Fire Chief Retires

By Marianne Curtis On May 29, the community of New Bothwell officially bid farewell to Ken Hiebert, who recently retired as Fire Chief.

Hiebert joined the department twenty-two years ago, and was one of the original members. He also stepped down from his position as a Fire Inspector and Play Structure Inspector for the RM of Hanover in order to commit more time and energy to the ONZ Clinic in Hattingen, Germany.

Hiebert, along with Ron Bachmeiere, Sonny Peters, Jim Hiebert, John Hildebrand, and Jake Banman comprised the first fire department crew in New Bothwell when it opened October 9, 1991. They held their first drill November 1991 and in the following April, Hiebert was named Deputy Chief. A year later, he was named Fire Chief, a position he has held ever since.

“A lot has changed since the early 1990s. Our trucks were less sophisticated and our turnout gear looked more like straight jackets,” said Hiebert. “Each fire fighter I’ve worked with taught me something new in life, and I hope that the fire department has been able to teach them.”

During his two decades as Chief, Hiebert responded to dozens of house fires, accidents, vehicle accidents and medical calls but a few stick out vividly in his memory. A fire at New Bothwell Service at the start of his career ended up requiring assistance from Kleefeld, Niverville and Steinbach Fire Departments, he recalled. The blaze started in the business, then spread to overtake several nearby buildings on a neighbour’s property. Another big one was the fire that destroyed the Braunsdale Farm milking parlour in 2003, he added.

Now that Hiebert has retired, he will turn his energy to promoting the ONZ Clinic, which is an orthopaedic neuro centre in Germany. After suffering with back problems for twenty years, he travelled to Germany where two artificial discs were installed in his back in June 2011. Since his successful recovery, Hiebert has become a liaison for ONZ in hopes of helping other people get their quality of life back.

“I always loved helping people, that’s always been something that I’ve enjoyed,” said Hiebert. “My goal hasn’t changed in life; it’s just taken me down a different path.”

Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen said that Hiebert’s service to the community

Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen offered a gift and his thank you to retired New Bothwell Fire Chief Ken Hiebert.

and region is remarkable. He added that the New Bothwell Fire Department experienced many changes and improvements through Hiebert’s leadership.

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June 2015

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