August 9 2024 by Thompson Citizen

Friday, August 9, 2024

The Thompson Citizen: a legacy of

BY MATTHIAS J. JOHNSON STAFF REPORTER, THOMPSON CITIZEN

There has been considerable speculation and numerous rumors circulating about The Citizen in recent weeks, particularly due to the temporary pause in its publication for two weeks. I want to reassure everyone that despite the pause, the Citizen is not shutting down. Instead, it has merely relocated and can now be found just a few doors down at 117 Commercial Place.

It’s been a wild two weeks as the few of us were originally left with all the moving work. Fortunately, a mighty crew was banned together by The Thompson Seniors Resource Counsel bringing willing members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A line of smiling faces ready to lend a hand and move out stacks of paperwork boxes. Miller the Movers also pitched in as they moved over all the tables, printers and big equipment like it was an easy task.

The previous location the history of the Thompson Citizen, having served as its residence since 1962. The rich and storied history of this location makes one ponder what tales and secrets its walls may hold. However, with the move to a new location comes the promise of a fresh start and a renewed sense of purpose.

The Thompson Citizen has stood as the quintessential provider of local news. Its legacy dates emerged as a venerable weekly newspaper. The publication made its auspicious debut in the fall of that year and swiftly became an indispensable pillar of the community.

Hailing from Dauphin, Manitoba, The Thompson Citizen originally found its humble abode in the con-

Strand Theatre Building, underneath what is now the City Centre Mall front entrance.

As a cherished familyowned enterprise, both the Nickel Belt News and Thompson Citizen embarked upon their journey in the burgeoning town of Thompson. This vibrant settlement had been earmarked as a Local Government District, dedicated to catering to the burgeoning Inco mine complex.

Times have certainly changed since the birth days of the Citizen as the main printing machine was an old Solna offset press, which printed two sheets of tabloid news at a time. The sheets were then turned over and printed on the other side. Our equipment was an IBM electric typewriter and a mall photo device which set one character at a time to make 1p larger advertisements.

Offset presses were very new in those days and the staff had absolutely no knowledge of the process. It was soon learned by trial and error. Lots of errors and lots of midnight oil.

In the ever-evolving landscape of technological advancements, it’s remarkable to observe the enduring touch of work still done by hand where inserted into every paper, encompassing upwards of 4,000 papers every single Friday like clockwork.

BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Thompson has been a beacon of journalistic integrity, fearlessly delving into the spectrum of news, from heartwarming tales of community triumphs to the more somber narratives of the human experience. The interest and constant activities that arise in the the local community has drawn individuals from across the Province and even occasionally Internationally. Whether it’s the exhilarating buzz of Nickel Days attracting an

impressive 16,000 individuals or the outpouring of support through numerous fundraisers that provides us with much anticipated

facilities such as the coming Aquatic Center.

What truly sets this publication apart is the unwavering commitment of

its small but mighty team of three. Our staff commits our dedication as a labor of love, seamlessly collaborating to ensure we don’t

miss a beat when

Delivering News to the Nickel Belt since 1960

it comes

capturing the latest stories. We are all proud Thompsonites here with a story to tell.

Photos submitted by Barnell Taylor

Nickel Belt News photo by Ian Graham Addictions Foundation of Manitoba northern director Gisele deMeulles has written a book about her experiences growing up, mostly in Churchill.

Help keep Thompson GREEN & CLEAN

Portage la Prairie RCMP lay charges in abduction of 28-year-old female

On July 25, 2024, at 10:40 am, Portage la Prairie RCMP received information via social media that a 28-year-old female had been dragged out of her residence by two females, known to the victim, and placed into an SUV. It was believed that the victim was being held against her will at another location and was being assaulted.

kota Tipi First Nation and,

in speaking with members of the community, were able to identify the suspect vehicle.

home, located in Portage la Prairie and observed the suspect vehicle parked outside. In speaking with one of the residents inside the home, the victim was located and transported to the Portage la Prairie RCMP Detachment where she disclosed that two female sus-

pects had entered her home, assaulted her, and dragged her out to the SUV where she was taken to the address where she was located and had been assaulted by the two female suspects.

RCMP have issued Warrants of Arrest out for 45-year-old Carrie Bearbull, from Portage la Prairie, and 35-year-old Kelsey Meeches, from Long Plain First Nation, both of whom have been charged with Kid -

napping without Firearm, Assault.

If you have any information on the whereabouts of these two suspects, you are asked to contact the Portage la Prairie RCMP at 204-857-4445, call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com. Portage la Prairie RCMP continue to investigate.

Russell RCMP arrest ex-priest for historical sexual assault

On June 13, 2024, Russell RCMP arrested 81-year-old Constantin Turcoane of Regina, Saskatchewan in relation to a sexual assault dating back to the early 1970s, when he was a priest at a church in Lennard, Manitoba.

Russell RCMP received a report of an historic sex-

ual assault on March 16, 2022. A female in her 60s reported that she had been sexually assaulted multiple times over the course of two years by the priest when she was a parishioner at St. Elijah Romanian Orthodox Church. At the time of the assaults, the survivor was 11-12 years

Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones, is a growing concern among aging populations. While genetics and physical role in bone health, diet also plays a crucial part in maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporo sis. Here are some key nutrients to incorporate into your diet:

• Calcium-rich foods are essential for building and maintaining bone strength.

Incorporating dairy prod ucts like milk, cheese and yogurt into your diet pro of calcium. Nondairy op tions include leafy greens like kale and broccoli and orange juice.

• Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption, making it vital for bone health. Fatty and mackerel are excellent sources of vitamin D. Addi-

of age.

The investigation involved locating and taking statements from multiple people, a search of historic church records, and liaising with church-related organizations to obtain further investigative material. A warrant of arrest was issued for Turcoane

for Rape (1970) and Sexual Intercourse Under 14 (1970). Turcoane turned himself into police. He has been released with a court date.

Police do believe there are further survivors and ask them to call the Russell RCMP Detachment at 204-773-2675.

cereals and dairy products and exposure to sunlight can help meet your vitamin D needs.

• Protein is necessary for bone growth and repair. In clude lean protein sources and lentils in your meals to support bone health.

• Magnesium and vitamin K affect bone metabolism. Incorporate magnesiumrich foods like nuts, seeds, whole grains, leafy greens and vitamin Krich foods

like spinach, kale and Brussels sprouts into your diet. High sodium and caffeine intake can lead to calcium loss from bones. Limit processed foods, salty snacks and caffeinated beverages to protect bone health. By eating the right foods, you can support bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Remember, a balanced diet and regular exercise are crucial to main taining strong and healthy bones.

RCMP photo

Carrie Bearbull (left) and Kelsey Meeches.

Arctic Gateway names Chris Avery as CEO to lead next phase of growth

BY MATTHIAS J. JOHNSON LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THOMPSON CITIZEN

Arctic Gateway Group

strides with the appointment of Chris Avery as the new

The transition follows the retirement of outgoing CEO Michael Woelcke, who played a pivotal role in guiding the organization through a period of redevel-

Federal and provincial strategic investments enabling AGG to strengthen its position as a competitive trade corridor, Avery steps into his new role with a wealth of experience, As AGG focuses on re-establishing itself as a vital link for Canadian resources and goods, Avery's vision and expertise are poised to drive the company's future growth

Avery has found himself at the helm of momentous responsibility as the transi-stantial investments from both Federal and provincial authorities, Arctic Gateway is poised to re-emerge as a thriving and formidable trade route for Manitoba

tious revitalization project is expected to facilitate the transportation of Canadian

resources and products to previously untapped markets, thereby playing a sigthe economic prosperity and resilience of Canada as a

Mike Spence, Chair of the Arctic Gateway Group Board of Directors and Mayor of Churchill spoke on how The Board of Directors of AGG is pleased to announce the addition of Chris Avery as he carries on our ongoing work to connect Canada’s vast resources to the world through northern Manitoba, “We would also like to congratulate Michael Woelcke on his well-deserved reinstrumental in guiding the organization through a pivotal period of redevelhis leadership, the Port of Churchill and the Hudson Bay Railway are buzzing again, with hundreds of thousands of rail ties replaced, bridges rebuilt, increased reliability, and an important shipment of critical minerals departing Avery brings a wealth of extensive professional expertise to the table, having garnered years of invaluable career includes serving in

high-ranking positions at WestJet and even commanding the esteemed title of president and CEO at Avery is resolute in his commitment to championing the company's mission and is dedicated to focusing a heightened level of strategic attention towards bolstering the expansion of the trade corridor, all while steadfastly ensuring Arctic Gateway's long-term

“I’m looking forward to joining Arctic Gateway during a busy summer season and building upon our already solid foundation, There is critical work ahead to solidify the Port of Churchill and Hudson Bay Railway as key pieces of strategic Canadian trade and transportation infraclosely with our partners to make sure we can seize

the incredible opportunities that lie ahead for this trade

As Chris Avery steps into his new role as CEO of Arctic Gateway Group, his wealth of experience and strong leadership promise to drive the company's future growth and self-sustaina-vestments and ambitious revitalization plans, Arctic Gateway is set to re-emerge as a vital trade route for

Canada, facilitating the transportation of resourcesery's dedication to championing the company's mission and expanding the commitment to seizing incredible opportunities for the Port of Churchill and Hudson Bay Railway, ensuring a prosperous future for this strategic Canadian trade and transportation

Photo by Arctic Gateway Group

A portrait of Chris Avery, incoming CEO of the Arctic Gateway Group. AGG’s new logo is also featured.

OPINION

board opts for status quo,

way will city council go?

Know the risks around hydroelectric generating stations

The water may seem calm near a hydroelectric generation station, but below the surface are powerful currents that can overwhelm even the best swimmer. And that’s just one of the dangers around a generating station.

Hydroelectric stations can be remotely controlled by operators many kilometres away. Throughout the day and night, as demand for electricity rises and falls, operators open and close spillway gates at

these stations and start and stop generating units. This causes frequent and rapid changes in water levels and safety of people who get too close. It’s very easy to be caught off guard. A sud-

can swamp your boat or pull you into an undertow. Be alert to danger. Obey

all warning signs, fences, buoys and barriers that are there to prevent access to dangerous areas. Always stay clear of hydroelectric station structures unless you’re at a clearly indicated walkway or observation point.

When you’re near a hydroelectric station:

• Stay away from the water’s edge. Rocks are slippery and falling could be fatal.

Publisher

• Pay attention to all warning signs posted near these facilities and stay within marked areas.

• Explain the dangers to children. Always keep them close when you’re anywhere near a hydroelectric station.

• • Find places well away from these facilities to enjoy your activities safely.

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

• Keep your watercraft away from either side of the station or spillway. Water levels can change suddenly.

YOUR THOMPSON CITIZEN NEWS TEAM

Noah Cooke

Matthias J. Johnson Staff Reporter

Thompson Citizen & Nickel Belt News:

UCN Presents a new course for heavy duty operators

BY MATTHIAS J. JOHNSON LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THOMPSON CITIZEN

University College of the North (UCN) has launched an exciting new apprenticeship program aimed at boosting skilled trades in Manitoba. The Level 1 Common Core Heavy Duty/Truck and Transport/ Agricultural Technician program seeks to address the vital need for equipment operators in Thompson and surrounding areas. This comprehensive training initiative offering a valuable opportunity for individuals registered under Apprenticeship Manitoba and specializing in heavy-duty equipment, truck and transport, or agricultural trades.

The UCN staff has duly recognized the indispensable role played by equipment operators in the city of Thompson. From heavy-duty equipment operations to truck and transport as well as the agricultural sectors, the importance of skilled operators cannot be overstated. It is within this context that UCN is proud to offer a comprehensive training program tailored to meet the high demand for skilled operators in and around the city of Thompson.

The program is scheduled

to commence on September 3rd, 2024, and will be conducted throughout the entire school year. This duration has been carefully chosen to ensure that participants receive a thorough and immersive educational experience that prepares them for real-world challenges.

This course is meticulously designed with a focus on providing training that encompasses all the critical aspects essential for quick and comprehensive learning. From basic theoretical knowledge to hands-on practical skills, the program aims to equip participants with a well-rounded skill set that is highly sought after in the industry.

Eligibility for this program is open to individuals registered with Apprenticeship Manitoba and specializing in any of the aforementioned three trades. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the

ticeship Manitoba. This presents a unique opportunity for those looking to further their expertise and pursue a rewarding career in theations within the vibrant community of Thompson.

Jamie Grant is the As-

sociate Vice-President of Community & Industry Solutions as she expressed her delight in the new program; “This training will enhance the skill set of apprentices in the region and Manitoba’s economy. It will grow a workforce ready to meet the demands of essential industries, UCN looks forward to working with Apprenticeship Manitoba to train a northern workforce.” The launch of the Level 1 Common Core Heavy Duty/ Truck and Transport/Agricultural Technician program by the University College of the North (UCN) represents an important step towards addressing the demand for skilled trades in Manitoba. This comprehensive training initiative not only offers valuable opportunities for individuals registered under Apprenticeship Manitobament to meeting the workforce demands of essential industries. The program's focus on providing professional training for high-demand jobs in Thompson and UCN's dedication to conManitoba's economy and developing a skilled northern workforce.

BY MATTHIAS J. JOHNSON LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

REPORTER, THOMPSON CITIZEN

Manitoba Harm Reduction, SCN, and Safer Choices recently collaborated to host a health-focused event at the "Futures" location. The event aimed to provide essential health services and promote well-being within the community.

The gathering featured a series of nurses who were on hand to check attendees' immunizations, ensuring that they were all up to date. Participants were encouraged to visit the set-up booths to receive check-ups and screening for STDs. In addition to health services,

140 burgers and hot dogs were cooked up for those in attendance, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

The event took place on July 22nd from noon to 2:00 PM, offering a convenient opportunity for community members to access crucial health resources. Two immunization nurses and four STI VBI nurses, along with several Manitoba Harm Reduction workers, were present to assist with the event. Their efforts included providing support with food service, face painting, and distributing supplies to the attendees.

The collaborative effort of these organizations

underscored their commitment to promoting health and well-being within the community, creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all participants. Such initiatives play a vital role in fostering a healthy and resilient community.

Overall, the event at "Futures" successfully provided a range of important health services, underscored by the collaborative spirit of the involved organizations. It served as an inspiring example of community-driven initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of all individuals.

Photo by Gregorio Nuti on Unsplash

Westwood School relocates students and staff after fire damages building

BY MATTHIAS J. JOHNSON LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THOMPSON CITIZEN

Following the recent loss of the Westwood School building, plans of action have been heavily addressed to ensure the jobs of the local teachers and the further education of students. The Burntwood facility will temporarily house the workers and students of both the Burntwood and Westwood Schools.

Arrangements have been made for Kindergarten to Grade 5 students to be accommodated at the Westwood Wing at Burntwood Elementary School, while Grade 6 to 8 students will be at the Westwood Wing at Juniper Elementary School.

an electrical issue in the panel box of the old building. The incident occurred on July 24, 2024, at approximately 3:20 am where alarmed local residents were poping”. They looked out to see the thick

In response to this tragedy, Westwood Elementary kept concerned citizens up to date as they released a plan of action on July 30th; “To maintain Westwood’s sense of identity and community, we believe that a school within a school model is the best way to achieve this. Our main priority is to preserve the traditions and culture of the Westwood Vikings until we can rebuild” Manitoba Education Minister; Nel-

lo Altomare measured his faith in the school shortly after the incident stating that plans underway directed to ensuring stability to families and teachers; “The school division has it all looked after, we’re in communication with them and we know we’ll have a plan in place for the kids in September”

The Westwood board intends to host a public meeting at a later date to address any questions or concerns from the community. Additionally, parents and students will have an opportunity to tour the Westwood Wings at both Burntwood and Juniper Elementary Schools once everything is set up and ready.

“At this time I am unsure of what the will move through this ordeal one step at a time and will come out on the other end stronger than ever! Westwood will continue to be "A great place to Grow". Once a Viking, always a Viking!” Stated Misty MacDonald; VP of Westwood School on social media July 25th.

Despite the challenges, Westwood School, with its 334 registered students and a staff of 55 teachers and support staff, remains committed to preserving its community and has received overwhelming support local families. MacDonald concluded her statement recognizing the daunting task, but staring it down for the need of the community; ”We do have a long journey ahead of us, but we also have an amazing staff, wonderful students and families, and an outstanding community to help guide us through."

Winkler pilot project to evaluate potential public transit options

BY DAVE BAXTER LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

The lack of a public transportation system continues to be an “urgent” concern in Winkler, and leaders are hoping a pilot project can help show them how to put reliable and affordable public transit on the road in the southern Manitoba community.

“So many different groups have told us over the years that there is a huge need for this, and told us in no uncertain terms that the need is increasingly urgent,” Winkler Mayor Henry Siemens said.

“There are a lot of taxis in our community but that is simply unaffordable for peoplecome or need to move around a lot, and people should not be forced to rely on friends and family.”

According to Siemens, organizations and residents have also communicated to council their belief that the lack of any affordable public transit is having negative effects on the mental and physical health and well-being of many who live in the city that is home to more than 14,000 people, including seniors and those who cannot afford their own vehicles.

“The priority is to serve that demographic that currently

cannot move around, because a lot of people end up homebound and cannot participate in the things they need to do and that they would like to do, whether it’s shopping, or medical appointments, or recreational events, or just getting out and being with people,” he said.

“It has an overall negative effect on the health of the community when people can’t get around.”

This week Winkler city council released a request for proposals to bring a public transit pilot project to the city, and Siemens said several groups have expressed interest.

According to Siemens, once a proposal is accepted, the pilot project is expected to see a ride-sharing style operation up and running in Winkler before the end of this year with fees that would be similar to public transit in other centres subsidized by money put aside in the city’s budget.

The goal is two-fold, said Siemens, to get a public transit-style operation up and running while also allowing them to determine how great the need is and what the best op-

tions are for a potential permanent public transit service.

“We really have to dip our toes into it because it’s an expensive proposition, so we landed on a pilot project because this way we can really learn what we don’t know to offer the right service for this community,” Siemens said.

“Once the rubber hits the road, we can generate the info rides from, where they need rides to, and how many rides are needed, because we don’t want to over-invest and we also don’t want to under-invest.

“We have to get this right.”

Siemens said the city expects to evaluate proposals for the pilot project before the end of this month and to have it up and running before the end of 2024.

— Dave Baxter is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Winnipeg Sun. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.

Have thoughts on what’s going on in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada or across the world? Send us a letter to the editor at wpgsun.letters@kleinmedia.ca

When charging an electronic device becomes a risky venture

BY BRENDA SAWATZKY LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THE NIVERVILLE CITIZEN

We live in an age of fastcharge technology where speed is king. Today, the lithium-ion battery is responsible for charging most personal electronic devices. But without proper use, it can pose grave risks.

The lithium-ion battery is currently the coolest kid on the technology block. It’s compact and light and has the capacity to store almost twice as much energy as its nickel-cadmium counterpart. For this reason, devices using lithium-ion can run longer between charges.

Electric vehicles (EVs), e-scooters, e-bikes, power tools, electric lawnmowers, electric vacuums, smartphones, e-cigarettes, and some electric toys are powered by lithium-ion batteries.

The dark side of these batteries, though, lies in their potential to experience thermal runaway, or overheating. The excessive heat they can produce, in combination with their highly make them volatile. They can produce explosions to extinguish.

An e-bike attached to its charger.

Brenda Sawatzky, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

While burning, a lithium-ion battery is also said to emit excessive smoke and toxic gas. The degree of risk from this gas still isn’t fully understood.

“This is a front and centre now,” says Keith Bueckert, chief of the Niverville Fire and EMS Service. “It’s still

is trying to catch up to.”

Until recently, most public awareness has come via online videos capturing fantastic lithium-ion explo-works displays gone wrong.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has begun working on an awareness campaign to warn the public as well on the appropriate ways lithium-ion batteries.

“Electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular and they’re being charged in people’s garages or in public spaces,” Bueckert says. “And then we also have the e-bikes and e-scooters. These are the ones that I think people are seeing those fantastic explosions that are being caught on personal security cameras and stuff like that.”

It’s important to note, Bueckert adds, that many mobility scooters, like those used by senior citizens, are powered by lead acid batteries similar to that of a gas-powered car. If you have to charge the battery on a regular basis, it’s likely a lithium-ion battery.

According to the NFPA, most of the lithium-ion battery’s risks can be mitigated through safe use and safe charging.

“People are sometimes

using aftermarket batteries on a product and that is a really big no-no,” says Bueckert. “Charging devices that are specifically designed for a product usually have a shutoff that’ll stop the charging once it reaches a full charge.”

Overcharging a lithium-ion battery, Bueckert says, may be one reason for it to overheat. Other risks include using charge cords and adaptors that aren’t made specifically for a device or haven’t been approved by Canadian safety standards associations.

Impact and moisture are another two reasons why a lithium-ion battery might become defective. Every time your phone or e-reader is dropped, or your scooter or e-bike is exposed to moisture, battery failure is a risk.

According to the NFPA, signs to watch for include battery odour, a change in colour or shape, leaking, or odd noises.

Unfortunately, most electronics owners choose to take the risk and continue using their device since the battery can be the most expensive component.

In that case, understanding the risks and how to manage them are essential.

Firstly, Bueckert says it’s important to know that be treated differently from

“These things need rapidguisher is more designed to Bueckert says. “They’re not designed to cool an object.”

Likewise, he adds, the use prevent the battery from adequately cooling down.

If it’s already burning,

there’s only one option: get the family to safety and call 911.

Ideally, though, a battery fault can be stopped before it gets out of control. If smoke is detected while a battery is being charged, or if the battery seems abnormally hot, it’s a good idea to disconnect it from the charging source as quickly as possible.

If it’s safe to do so, Bueckert adds, remove the device from the household and put it in a location where it can cool off well away from

“If you’re unsure, just call us,” Bueckert says. “We’re going to be ten minutes away because we have to come to the hall. But better to call 911 while it’s still a small thing rather than waiting. If you can’t guarantee your safety or the safety of others, make the call.”

Prevention is the best way to avoid a bad situation.

For this reason, Bueckert offers tips on good charging techniques.

Firstly, he says, ensure that your battery remains cool and well-ventilated during a charge.

He recalls an incident which saw his team called

A cellphone that overheated while it was charging between the mattress and pillow the user slept on.

Charging a battery in high temperatures or direct sunlight can also be an issue.

“They want the batteries charged at room temperature,” Bueckert adds. “So maybe you can take the battery off the unit and charge it independently somewhere else.”

Other common sense

tips include never leaving a charging battery unattended and making sure it’s in a location where it doesn’t put anyone’s life at risk if it

“E-bikes and e-scooters are being charged in hallways and in egresses of apartments or houses,” Bueckert says. “So now, if they have a failure, your exit is

If possible, he says, they should be charged in a garage which is equipped with a heat detector that’s tied into the home’s smoke alarm system and has a the house.

As for EVs, Bueckert have had to adopt different methods for extinguishing those as well.

“EVs, when they start burning, they can burn for days,” says Bueckert. “It has such an intense amount of heat that it won’t stop because they tend to rekindle.” For this reason, specialty equipment is needed.

the top down,” says Bueckert. “What they’re telling us with electric vehicles is that you’re doing it from the bottom up. So we have a type of nozzle on our truck that we would slide underneath the vehicle and we just start providing copious amounts of water to the battery to cool it.”

When it’s time to dispose of a lithium-ion battery, the NFPA asks users not to throw them in the trash but rather to dispose of them through the proper recycling channels.

Both Bristal Hauling and lithium-ion batteries.

IDC bump-Outs reconsidered after outcry

BY BRENDA SAWATZKY LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THE NIVERVILLE CITIZEN

Following concerns raised by residents of Îledes-Chênes (IDC) over the bump-outs being built along the community’s Main Street, changes are underway.

Ritchot Mayor Chris Ewen says that the construction crew was not to blame for the wide girth of the two left only ten feet, eight inches of roadway from curb to curb. They were simply following the blueprints.

Since that time, he adds, conversations took place between the construction company, the RM’s public works department, and an engineering team. They concluded that a wider space would be preferable to accommodate larger vehicles.

The recently installed concrete curbing was removed and rebuilt, now leaving a vehicle gap of 12 feet where the bump-outs are located.

“As background, most residential lanes are between 10 and 11 feet,” says Ewen. “Most highway lanes are 12 feet. Main Street, between the curb-outs and the boulevard will be [at least] 12 feet.”

The original concept plans for the Main Streets in IDC, St. Adolphe, and Ste. Agathe were created in 2017. At that time, Ewen says that a public open house was held in order to glean feedback from Ritchot residents.

“Safety was the primary focus of this reconstruction with the addition of new sidewalks, bike lanes, and multiple crosswalks,” Ewen says of the IDC street renewal. “This was something the community had been asking for during the consultation process. This includes multiple bump-outs along Main Street which are to one lane so pedestrians only need to cross one lane, not two.”

Likewise, the conceptual drawings for the Main Street renewals in St. Adolphe and Ste. Agathe also include bump-outs with crosswalks. As well, there is potential for the use of roundabouts,

those communities.

Like IDC, St. Adolphe has a bike lane drawn into the design which will fol-

will be managed by a nearby multiuse path.

It’s been nearly three months since construction of IDC’s Main Street began. Ewen says that residents can expect project completion sometime around the end of summer.

For business owners located along Main Street and patrons trying to access them, the wait already feels interminable.

The Citizen interviewed the owner of the Île-desChênes Convenience Store. At the time of this writing, IDC Main Street was completely blocked to public directions. The only way for patrons to reach them was on foot.

The owner says that the street has been fully closed like this several times throughout the construction period.

She says all the businesses along Main were visited by someone from to the commencement of construction.

“They told everyone that their place [of business] would remain accessible,” she says, believing that the promised accessibility re-

one direction or the other, she adds that parking has been virtually impossible. The convenience store is one of the few businesses along Main with an ample parking space. Even then, she says that construction vehicles often block access to it.

Lately, there’s been days when the convenience store has seen as few as ten customers walk through their door as opposed to the conbefore. Their sales have dropped by more than 50 percent over the past three months.

In her opinion, the RM could have made things better in two ways. Firstly, she feels that businesses along Main should have been in-

vited to a meeting prior to construction to discuss ways to minimize the impact on them.

Secondly, she adds, residents should have had another opportunity to speak to the design since much has changed in the community in the past seven years.

Further down the street, The Citizen spoke to a staff person at a service-related business. They requested anonymity but had much they’ve faced since construction began.

Confusion and poor communication, she says, has been the norm. At times, supposed to be open to the public has been inexplicably closed.

“We anticipated that accommodated, that there one side at all times,” she says. “[But] things change from day to day, hour to hour, morning to night. And there’s no signage, no one communicating.”

While parking has been for staff who have to hope on Dumaine or Lacroix for the day.

As for the two bump-outs that had to be deconstructed and rebuilt, it’s anyone’s guess as to who will be responsible for that cost.

Brenda Sawatzky, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The bump-outs are being changed on Main Street in IDC as a result of resident concern.

Along the street, while on his break, one construction worker offered The Citizen an educated guess on what the costs would come to.

Around $15,000, he said, for each bump-out.

Rather than posting comments and questions on social media, residents are encouraged to reach out directly to the RM or contact Mayor Ewen at 204-803-1447 or mayor@ ritchot.com.

Photo by

Province boosts support for 24/7 helpline

BY BRENDA SAWATZKY LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THE NIVERVILLE CITIZEN

At some point, people’s lives can become a realcult to know where to turn for advice or help. That’s why 211 Manitoba was established.

211 Manitoba is a health and social services helpline that’s available to all Manitobans 24 hours of the day, seven days per week.

Facilitated through United Way Winnipeg, calls are answered by a live person navigator, there to point people towards resources for homelessness, parenting, victim support, debt services, income support, aging or 2SLGBTQ+ support, and almost any conceivable circumstance oneself.

This month, the province announced $510,000 in funding to United Way Winnipeg, earmarked for this important program.

“Part of making sure Manitobans can access the services and supports they

need to thrive is helping everyone connect to these services,” said Nahanni Fontaine, Minister of Families. “211 Manitoba helps people identify, understand, and use government and community-based programs and services, including offering one-on-one support to Manitobans navigating complex systems like health care and social services.”

The 211 Manitoba helpline has a comprehensive resource database that can connect Manitobans with a wide array of services.

Phone personnel can respond in more than 150 different languages, including four Indigenous tongues.

“When people go looking for help, research shows it can take as many as seven separate phone calls to reach the right community resource,” states the United Way Winnipeg website. “211 makes it easy for you and non-clinical health services close to home by dialling just one three-digit number.”

According to the provin-

cial government, the helpline has received calls from more than 52,000 people since it was introduced. It has also been an invaluable resource for frontline professionals seeking to assist their clients.

“We are so grateful for our relationship with the Manitoba government,” says Tammy Reimer, director of 211 Manitoba. “Without this support, we would not be able to continue to be a vital resource for thousands of Manitobans every year. With an increasing number of callers expressing more complex needs, it’s critically important 211 for anyone who needs it… When we make it possible for people to easily reach out, find resources and begin on a path to healing, our whole community gets stronger as a result.”

As public awareness grows surrounding 211 Manitoba, it is hoped that

other helplines such as 911, 311, and Health Links will see their lines freed up for calls that are better suited to their services.

Photo by Harkirat Khattra

211 Manitoba has gottena boost in ﬁnancial support.

BY DAVE BAXTER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

REPORTER,

WINNIPEG SUN

Plans for Manitoba’s

Manitoba’s landfill search for homicide victims set to

begin by end of October

Dave Baxter is a Lo-

cal Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Winnipeg Sun. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.

Carberry residents review plans for deadly intersection

BY KERI PRIOR LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, NEEPAWA BANNER & PRESS

Well over a hundred area residents attended an open house in Carberry on Tuesday evening held by Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure regarding the future of the intersection at PTH 1 and PTH 5. The event was hosted by Landmark Planning & Design Inc., who are managing the public engagement, along with WSP Canada, Inc., the engineering firm which prepared a safety report on the intersection.

That In-Service Road Safety Review released by Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure in January included recommendations for the three safest options to improve the intersection. This open house presented a condensed version of that report for attendees, and had several representatives on hand to listen to public feedback on the information presented and on the intersection in general.

"The intent of today is ... just to listen," said Dustin Booy, Executive Director of Highway Engineering Services with Manitoba

Transportation. "We're here at the first stage of this project really just to hear what users of the facility have to say, how they interact with the intersection, and any considerations that our design team should take into account when they're developing options for a future stage of evaluation."

While three mediumterm options were identified in the report, including a widening of the median, a roundabout, or a restricted crossing u-turn (RCUT), Booy says that at this point all options are still on the table. The evaluation criteria for those options, he goes on, is more than just safety and includes cost,

traffic operations, impacts to adjacent lands, and environmental conditions.

While several attendees expressed that they had been expecting more of a public meeting and town hall discussion regarding the intersection rather than a drop-in type of information session. Booy says that the preferred mode is

open-house "just because of the scheduling nature of trying to get everyone in the room at the same time."

Following this open house, the next stage of the process is to summarize the comments received and to compile those into a report which Booy expects will be available in the fall. Those options will be evaluated,

and the third stage of the functional design process is the presentation of the preferred option. Booy expects they will have a preferred option identified towards the end of 2024. The detailed design phase would then be in 2025, with the project likely to begin in the late fall with completion in 2026.