July 12 2024

Nickel Belt News

Volume 58 Number 11

Friday, July 12, 2024

Friday, March 16, 2018

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Volume 64 • Issue 27

UCN Convocation 2024: celebrating Book a way to preserve and pass on resilience and memories of achievement growing up in Churchill

Addictions Foundation of Manitoba northern director Gisele deMeulles has written a book about her experiences growing up, mostly in Churchill.

Nickel Belt News photo by Ian Graham

BY IAN GRAHAM

For all the harsh weather to write things that you have ‘Oh, I’m just as bad, right?’ was not a very safe thing swallow when people say to figure out. It’s pretty clear I have all these stories and to do but I jumped at it. I that Churchill residents and the dangers of polar Though she’s now written when I get through.”

I need to capture them for thought that was exciting should just find somewhere bears, deMeulles said if it a book about her experienDeMeulles said she wrote my grandchildren really until the plane landed and easier to live. had been viable she would ces growing up in Churchill, her book, titled Whispers in because they will be lost if they started throwing the “To say, ‘Those people have moved back to ChurchAddictions Foundation of the Wind: Stories from the I don’t.” fuel off and I realized, ‘Holy choose to live there. They Photo ill in a heartbeat. courtesy of UCN Manitoba northern director North - Life in Churchill for She also has a reputation cats, I was probably sitting should just leave,’ is quite “I miss the shoreline, I UCN Convocation 2024: Valedictorian Jasraj Kullar delivers an inspiring speech, celebrating the resilience and accomplishments of the graduating class.

Gisele deMeulles said writ- a couple of reasons. as a storyteller herself. on a bomb.’” simplistic. It’s quite disre- miss the rock, I miss the ing wasn’t something she “I just sort of thought, “I had such a varied hisAnother thing that spectful. If we were in the polar bears even though defeat. But we always learned fromshe would had noyou human interaction, us and hadI would a normal life. We all her away fromtheyou.same boat in anotherly,area trulythey’re control what you thought know what, this his- tory tell people spurred on was very is dangerous and

BY JASRAJ KULLAR do. defeats, stuff that’s my stories would scream I really the Hudson and they would go, hard times facing VALEDICTORIAN our lessons and we didtory, notthis know howinour had unique and individual WeChurchill all knowI think goodwetimes think. That is miss the only thing “In my youth I never head, it’s going to be gone ‘That’s not true, is it?’ I’d go, since the Hudson Bay Rail- about that so why don’t they Bay,” she says. “When I go Good afternoon, fellow and succeeded, peers they life paths.

The things don’t last forever, doto doyou change real time. feltwhich good at has writing,” she iflooked, I don’t writehow it down,” she ‘Yeah it’s true.’

They’d go, you’ve have thenor option that?canback home, in standing on the way suspended operations graduates, esteemed fac- brought us together atwhen the I moved talked, said. and “My howkids ourareprofesgone through, nobody theof Gillam the bad times. They’re gonYou can be thinking ofoutred said. “But didn’t do all that, did on not go- ‘You north last spring.

I think right now they’re Hudson Bay looking on to Thompson into looked ing to get if I don’t do You’ve to bethrough. really “It usedna to be a really like you they’re pawns the bay, it it just youSo an ulty, family, and friends. My end of each of our journeys.to getsors initperson.

Onit you? planet hasgot gone You come and feeling go, and and change to gives blue. school of social work, and it’s something I’ve al- old.’ I was like, ‘No, actually thriving large community in a political game and that’s incredible sense. You feel so name is Jaz; as this year’s We were justthe a bunch of top of all that, it was pretty lived certain experiences: the just have to be ready and take control of your mind at that point I had to write ways wanted my mom to I did all that before I was and it’s just dwindled down really sad for them because I small and you feel great.”

2024 Valedictorian, I am first years, some of us havnerve-wracking writing school you went to, thetotime ridepopulation that storm, and and startNow livingthat theshe’s life you for university and realized, do. My mom’s an elderour and 27,’ and they went ‘What?’” such a small think the enjoy people of Churchgot ‘Holy,we I’m were not bad atexams this, online she’s an and artist,not she’s so oneatbook under belt, Looking some honored to welcome you all ing no clue what ingot peryou failedback, a test, theoftimenow,” youdeMeulles it forsays. what it is.illAreally quotewant thatto thrive. want. Or, least, it’s her a good I certainly developed many wonderful stories be- those experiences are things Though she’s not there They’ve built their worlds deMeulles says she may try to this prestigious occasion, doing, trying toright?’ way son, ascause it was of our discovered ChatGPT. Every struck goes place afind lot ofour skill in university she many always tells her she might not do again. any longer,really her parents and me there.

How like would we feel to to start. produce another. our graduation ceremony. through this maze; writing any exam single thing isbizarre uniqueherlike this: “Sometimes we’re soto you and So, to “Imy fellow and camewhich out of therefirst withtimes stories at Parks Canada in “I did some pretty sister and other family if someone came have anothergradubook in veryfor, strong my Churchill I’ve always stuff like fuel hauls into the members still ‘I’m sorry, me,” she says. “It’s a darker are.

Today marks the end of classes to signaup howskill in online.

But likeandeverything a fingerprint, a completely focused on thesaid, future thatyou have atestoand everyone who has writing and confidence in hounded her, ‘Please, just high Arctic at -35,” said “My cousin owns the leave your home community story, more about persona chapter in our lives and to sign up for classes, which life, put weitlearned, adapted, unique life thatdawn belongs to store we there,” don’tshe realize we’re into displace come here to support us, my writing.

I writein very on tape, I will write it deMeulles.

“It didn’t hardware and we’re going al growth and struggles. the beginning of a new friends to choose, Weyour never you.

Theafter. oneThat thing the midst of what we usedelse and let all us celebrate clear andwhich that’s it. It’s and there. succeeded. for you because story on me until wasto a undersays. you somewhere Maybe in theour nextaccomfive years peopleand say it’s kind of up is going to beeven lost,’ and she’s very dangerous do. no one Becauseto pray of for.” that, your loved ones andplishments. your it’s something I’ll focus on one. I cannot help but feel study groups Some to join, gave hope when stand is it’s thing just to you; As we close this blunt or direct. I don’t tend never done it and I thought, Being on a plane full of fuel deMeulles finds it hard to history is gone?’” doing.”

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

a sense of nostalgia for all the memories we’ve made and a sense of commitment to the future that lies ahead of us. In the past four years, we’ve laughed, cried, learned, and grown together.

We’ve experienced moments of triumph and moments of

finally counting how many hours of sleep we were going to get tonight.

Some of us, including myself, entered university at the beginning of COVID. It was a scary time both academically and personally. All of the classes were online. We

times seemed tough. We all carried our weight and pushed through to the end of the tunnel because we all had one common dream: finishing university and getting a degree in the profession we chose for ourselves.

The best part is, none of

else can do the work for you.

No one else can go through all the challenges life has in store for you. Nobody but you. But the beautiful thing about that is when you finally make it, the glory on the other side will be all yours, so never let anyone take that

The one thing I’ve learned over the past four years is there is only one thing on the planet you actually have control over. You can’t control the weather. You can’t control your health. You can’t control other people.

The only thing you can real-

PREM SAWNA, P.ENG., AMP PREM SAWNA

chapter, let us remember that our greatest accomplishments are not just the degrees we earned today, but are the keys to unlocking our full potential.

Thank you, and congratulations to the graduating class of 2024.

CELL: 204.914.4902 36-1313 Border St., Winnipeg

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Page A2 •

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, July 12, 2024

Thompson RCMP search leads to seizure of cash and drugs On June 28, 2024, as a result of an ongoing investigation, RCMP officers with the Thompson General Investigation Section (GIS), along with assistance from the Emergency Response Team (ERT), Police Dog Services (PDS), North District Crime Reduction Enforcement Support Team (CREST) and Thompson Detachment, executed a series of search warrants at four separate locations within the City of Thompson, in relation to the trafficking of cocaine.

As a result of the search warrants, officers seized approximately $250,000

in cash, a small quantity of crack cocaine, numerous cell phones and other drug-related paraphernalia.

Juqjuan Darling, 28, of Mississauga, ON, Nathaniel Evans, 28, of Toronto, ON, and John Mifflin, 37, of Thompson, were remanded into custody on several charges including Possession for

the Purpose of Trafficking.

A 32-year-old female, from Thompson, was arrested and later released for court scheduled for August 23, 2024, in Thompon, where she will face a charge of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking.

Thompson RCMP continue to investigate.

LINDSEY

TOM

MLA FOR FLIN FLON CONSTITUENCY REPRESENTING: Black Sturgeon Falls, Brochet, Cold Lake/Sherridon, Cranberry Portage, Cross lake, Flin Flon, Herb Lake Landing, Lac Brochet, Leaf Rapids, Lynn Lake, Norway House, Pukatawagan, Snow Lake, South Indian Lake, Tadoule Lake

Constituency Office: 93 Main Street, Flin Flon, MB. HOURS: Mon–Fri, 9 am – 4 pm PHONE: 204-687-3246 FAX: 204-687-5649 EMAIL: tom.lindsey@yourmanitoba.ca

RCMP photos

Thompson RCMP respond to collision On July 6, 2024, at approximately 2:55 am, RCMP responded to a collision on Baffin Crescent, in Thompson. It was reported that a vehicle had driven into the front of a home.

Officers attended and located the vehicle which had caused significant damage to the home. The occupants of the vehicle had

COMMUNITY SAFETY OFFICERS

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR III

The City of Thompson invites qualified applicants to submit a resume for consideration for the full-time position of Community Safety Officer.

The City of Thompson invites qualified applicants to submit a resume for consideration:

The Community Safety Officer (CSO) is responsible for enforcing the provision of bylaws passed

by Council and of appointed statutes. The CSO assists and works cooperatively with the RCMP and other stakeholders, using a collaborative enforcement model. The CSO is responsible for enforcement, prevention, intervention, and education of applicable legislation, with an emphasis on the Downtown area.

The successful candidates will have Grade 12 or higher and hold a Valid Class 3 MB Driver’s License with Air Brake Endorsement and have the ability to operate all equipment as per the job description.

Duties include conducting patrols within the community, investigating and responding to by-law complaints, ensuring resolution either by education and redirection or ticketing, explaining and interpreting policies and regulations to public and Administration, maintenance of documents and files, preparation of notices, summonses, and legal documents, maintaining the confidentiality of all information.

In addition to the minimum qualifications listed on the City of Thompson website, the right candidate will have superior interpersonal skills, with emphasis on effective communication and conflict resolution, excellent oral and written communication with a focus on customer service and public relations, demonstrated ability to maintain a professional manner and make sound decisions under stressful public conditions, demonstrated knowledge of issues facing hardto-serve populations, including but not limited to: homelessness, addictions, crime prevention, and public safety, demonstrated understanding of the social roots of crime, and knowledge of community resources.

The City of Thompson offers a comprehensive benefits program and competitive salary. Please review the detailed list of qualifications at www.cotjobs.ca Applications outlining education, experience, qualifications and references will be accepted until the position is filled. Applications are available online at www.cotjobs.ca or at City Hall. Those interested may apply in confidence to: HR Manager City of Thompson - 226 Mystery Lake Road Thompson, Manitoba RSN 156 FAX: {204) 677-7981 E-Mail: osalau@thompson.ca We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Those requiring assistance with the application process should call 204-677-7924

The successful candidates require demonstrated experience operating a variety of equipment, with specific emphasis on trucks, loaders, rollers and sweepers.

The City of Thompson offers an extensive benefits package for this full-time position, with a starting rate of $27.63 per hour.

Please send detailed resumes outlining experience, education, qualifications and references by Friday, July 19, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. to: Human Resources, City of Thompson 226 Mystery Lake Road, Thompson, Manitoba R8N 1S6 FAX: (204) 677-7981 E-Mail: osalau@thompson.ca or jkaur@thompson.ca Applications are available at City Hall or online at www.thompson.ca We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Those requiring assistance with the application process should call 204-677-7924 The City of Thompson is committed to providing a superior quality of life and unlimited opportunities. We are dedicated to supporting healthy growth and our northern urban lifestyle while providing our residents with high quality municipal services and facilities.

fled. There was no one inside the home at the time of the collision.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call Thompson RCMP at 204677-6909, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Thompson RCMP continue to investigate.

Thompson City Council is currently on its summer schedule. There are no Committee of the Whole meetings or Regular Meetings of Council for the remainder of July. The next scheduled Committee of the Whole meeting is on Tuesday, August 6 at 7 p.m. in City Hall.

The public is welcome to attend. The meeting will be livestreamed on Facebook, YouTube and X and is also broadcast on Rogers TV Channel 11.

Upcoming meeting agendas are available on the City of Thompson website the Friday before the meeting at https://www. thompson.ca/p/minutes-agendas. Minutes of previous meetings are also available there.

Stay informed on the go through Thompson Connect To get important notices about things like road closures, boil water advisories and water shutoffs sent directly to your phone, register for our direct communication system Thompson Connect.

Sign up for email, text and voice message notifications at: www.thompson.ca/p/connect

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Friday ,July 12, 2024

www.thompsoncitizen.net

• Page A3

Not the first time city has tried to run urban highway through neighbourhood–Resident’s group considering legal action

BY PATRICK HARNEY

LEAF FILES, LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THE LEAF

The Executive Policy Committee (EPC) meeting on June 18th saw more comments on the proposed Transit Master Plan from Wolseley residents. Despite a further round of delegations, the EPC has put the Master Plan through with no changes.

Among the delegations at the June 18th meeting was Molly McCraken, a Wolseley Resident living on Arlington Street. She reiterated the concerns the Wolseley residents voiced at the previous public works meeting, such as the tension between the Wolseley Street Greenway and increased transit and the effects of the #10 bus’ cancellation.

She discussed concerns regarding Arlington Street’s ability to manage an increased load of buses. McCraken brought up statistics from the City’s Transportation Manual which states that minor collector streets must have a 22 metres of right of way with 10 metres of road curb-to-curb. Arlington, in its current state, has a 17 metres of right of way with 9 metres curb-to-curb.

Additionally, the street is currently in ‘fair’ condition and the City has not set money aside in their budget to repair the streets.

McCraken says she whole-heartedly supports public transit, but that for this plan to be successful “it has to be sustainable.”

She also pointed out that this is not the first instance of the City of Winnipeg attempting to turn Arlington into an urban highway.

In a 2022 article for the Winnipeg Free Press, local historian Christian Cassidy discussed the 1906 unification of Arlington Street, Brant Street and Brown Street to create the Arlington as seen today, and develop a thoroughfare,

alternative to Main Street.

The plan called for a bridge at the north end of the route, and a second that would cross the Assiniboine river at its southern end.

The construction of a south Arlington bridge was intended for street car access but local politicians and citizens opposed rendering the street an urban highway.

“100 years ago, when this portion of the city was being built, the population around Arlington south of Portage organized regarding the consideration of street cars. At that point, the local councillors rejected this street being used as a traffic thoroughfare,” McCraken said. “I’m asking you to uphold this decision.”

At the EPC, McCraken said that Arlington residents are considering legal action.

Residents Greg Wilson and Anne McConkey also raised their concern with children using the greenway on their bikes, skateboards, or travelling in strollers with the increased traffic the buses would bring.

“Kids don’t always listen and follow the rules. As an elementary school teacher I know that students often run out to meet their parents,” said Wilson.

Chair of the EPC Janice Lukes asked Wilson if he knew that Transit could make adjustments after a one year trial, if there were any safety needs.

“So then it would only be one year of an unsafe situation,” Wilson replied.

“Arlington and Wolseley are narrow congested streets. When people cross at Wolseley and Maryland at rush hour often takes 10 to 20 minutes to turn at the corner, said McConkey.

“One of the real issues here is the lack of financial investment in public transit. Its very unfortunate, a tragedy really, that transit has been asked to revamp

Photo by Sean Ledwich, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Number 10 bus to be cut in transit plan that will run new high frequency bus route on new community greeway. the entire system with no increase in funding. Meanwhile the city is considering spending hundreds of millions expanding Kenaston.”

“If even a small portion of this money was invested in public transit more people could be served in a way that is environmentally sustainable… a smaller transit bus would cost about a million. To put that into perspective, it is less than 0.2% of the Kenaston proposal,” McConkey added.

Throughout this process, Councillor Cindy Gilroy has been trying to advocate for Wolseley residents within the city council. Now, with the transit plan going through, Coun. Gilroy will be doing her best to gain some ground for concerned Arlington residents.

“I’ll have to fight to try to get that road fixed,” Coun.

Gilroy says. “I have asked EPC through email, if they are going to let this go through, at least look at the road.” While the Council still has to vote on the Master Plan, it looks unlikely that any major changes to the route will be made at this stage.

The response of Wolseley residents shows the importance of public consultation in major works like transit and may be an indication of future challenges for Winnipegger along the new transit line, especially those on Morley Avenue and Cathedral Avenue which have similar issues.

“I wish there was better consultation and I wish that the community had a little more voice, understanding the impacts on the greenway,” Coun. Gilroy says.

“I feel that was really lack-

ing and lost from the public service.”

On June 27th, Council passed the transit plan 15 to 1, but councillors spoke up against the quality of consultation, the absence of independent assessment and the lack of funding to expand the route rather than just make it more efficient.

“Residents will see this as a cut in service,” Coun.

Wyatt said. “I don’t think

the homework has been done here properly and we’re rolling out a plan and we’re going to be doing a lot of damage control, especially in the first winter of 2025.”

“Residents were really concerned … and I still share their concern,” Coun. Gilroy said in council. “However, this overall plan for the city is going to be valuable.”

NOTICE In the matter of the Estate of George Oscar Anderson, late of Nelson House, in the Province of Manitoba.

All claims against the above estate, duly verified

by Statutory Declaration, must be filed with the undersigned at their offices at 154 Fischer Avenue, P.O. Box 3772, The Pas, Manitoba, R9A 1S4, on or before the 28th day of August, A.D. 2024.

Dated at the Town of The Pas, in the Province of Manitoba, this 8 day of July, A.D. 2024.

Zaharia Law Office Solicitor for the Executor

UCN is building better futures for a stronger North. UCN provides learning opportunities to northern communities and its people offering more than forty academic degrees, diploma, and certificate programs.

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Please visit our website for more detailed information about UCN and this employment opportunity. At http://www.ucn.ca, select “UCN Careers”, and select from the list of positions to view. Thank you for your interest in UCN.

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Opinion

Page A4 4 • •Opinion

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www.thompsoncitizen.net Thompson Citizen

Friday, May July 12, 31, 2024

141 Commercial Place, Box 887 Thompson, Manitoba R8N 1T1 Phone: 677-4534 • Fax 677-3681 e-mail: generalmanager@thompsoncitizen.net

Thompson Citizen 141 Commercial Place, Box 887 Thompson, MB R8N 1T1 Phone 204-677-4534 Fax 204-677-3681 generalmanager@thompsoncitizen.net

OPINION

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many of the people workload around and for reducing members, the citizens of Thompopposed to the plan allows for greater di- whether they belong son elected more truly are the regular critics versity of viewpoints, to the school board independent-thinking of council who attend though Ryan Land was or council, is that it candidates who aren’t meetings and ask their mostly correct in say- will save money. The married to aligning elected officials ques- ing that, in terms of amount is not large themselves with any NEWS tions week after week, class and ethnicity, the overall – about $20,000 particular side, because their opinions may not trustees aren’t really in councillors’ salar- right now, the number be enough to dissuade a microcosm of the ies per year plus ap- of opinions on council the majority from for- School District of Mys- proximately half that is generally two – for ging ahead, especially tery Lake’s population amount, on average, and against.

SHOAL — Riding in the Legislature tats,annual protect travel culturaland sites, Maybe the low turnsince the LAKE number of asAssent a whole.

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These funds generate posed cus.com/parksplate or by think is right, regardofbeautiful keepinglicence the current made their decision that it will prevent plate.” as much as $1 million an- emailing Parks.Plate@leg. less of what the most numbers, the option it for appears there “new blood” The fromdeadline being vocal taxpayers think.

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Help design Manitoba’s new Parks licence plate

Manitoba Public Insurance, stakeholders, and the public to launch the new licence

plates in time for the 2025 camping and summer tourism season.

YOUR THOMPSON Thompson Citizen News Team CITIZEN NEWS TEAM Thompson Citizen Citizen & & Nickel Nickel Belt Belt News: News: Thompson 2024 Office Office Closures Closures and and Deadline Deadline Changes Changes 2024 THE NEWSPAPER OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED UNTIL JULY 29.

THE NEXT ISSUE OF THE THOMPSON CITIZEN WILL BE PUBLISHED AUGUST 2.

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Ryan Lynds

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Matthias J. Johnson Johnson Amy Caldwell Matthias J. Staff Reporter Production Staff Reporter

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THOMPSON CITIZEN CLASSIFIED SECTION PH 204-677-4534 FAX 204-677-3681 CLASSIFIED@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET Announcements

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RCMP bust child exploitation ring and warn of others

BY BRENDA SAWATZKY

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THE NIVERVILLE CITIZEN

On July 9, RCMP informed the public of a series of arrests made in Portage la Prairie involving drug and human trafficking as well as possession and production of child pornography. Police say that at least three female victims were exploited ranging in age from 13 and 15.

The RCMP Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE) has made seven arrests with a total of 65 charges between them.

Authorities also warn there are likely many more such human trafficking rings around the province and ask the public to be vigilant.

“If you think this is not happening in your community, you are wrong,” says Constable Kirandeep Hira with the ICE unit. “This is human trafficking and it is happening all over Manitoba. We all need to do our part to protect those victimized by traffickers. If you see something, say something. Those engaged in the production or exchange of child pornography are also throughout our province and we are dedicated to enforcing against anyone who exploits children.”

Investigation of the crimes began on February 2, 2024 when the RCMP was notified by a suspicious observer that a young girl was spotted in Portage accompanied by older men.

Officers were able to locate the 15-year-old girl along with an additional female of the same age and confirmed that they were victims of sex trafficking.

Over the course of the next four months, ten search warrants were carried out.

A full investigation revealed that the two young women had been befriended by an adult female who had invited them to hang out with some of her friends.

Trusting the female, the girls were taken to a variety of residences between June

to December of 2023.

At each location, an adult male was present, offering the girls drugs in exchange for sexual acts. On many occasions, the girls were locked in the building by the adult female, preventing their escape.

The adult female received payment from the male perpetrators in the form of drugs, including methamphetamine and cocaine.

“The exploitation included the adult males sending nude photos to the two youth and requiring photos of the two youth,” the RCMP release states.

“As well, telecommunications between several of the males and the adult female took place via Snapchat or Facebook Messenger to groom or procure services from the youths.”

During the search warrants, RCMP seized a large quantity of illegal drugs as well as 13 firearms, including rifles and shotguns.

Charged is 43-year-old Chasity Nicole Assiniboine for child luring, trafficking, and benefitting from sexual services provided by someone who is under 18.

Six men were arrested, ranging in age from 34 to 44. They include David Guy Howard Taylor, Scott Joseph Taylor, Wesley Clayton Roulette, Frank Peter Justin Tecza, Alexander Paul Lidster, and Sean Michael Boak.

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Charges for the latter two men include possession of child pornography and the printing, publishing, or making of child pornography. All of the accused are known to each other.

“Investigators do believe there are more victims and survivors,” says Inspector Shawn Pike, Investigative Services Officer for RCMP Major Crime Services. “Information has led officers to know that a currently unidentified 13or 14-year-old female was also exploited by this group.

We ask anybody who knows anything about this operation, or is a survivor of it, to please call the Internet Child Exploitation Unit at 204-984-3129.”

In the meantime, the investigation continues.

RCMP media relations officer Tara Seel says that this crime ring was stopped and the victims saved thanks to a couple of vigilant Portage citizens who reported what seemed like a suspicious sight.

She strongly urges residents everywhere to not stay silent when such circumstances are observed.

“I really think knowing the signs to look for include anything that seems out of the ordinary,” Seel said at a July 9 press release. “If anything’s raising your suspicions and just doesn’t seem right, there’s no harm in calling and just saying, ‘This is what I saw. This is what I feel.’”

For anyone in need of resources, Klinic Community Health has a 24/7 Sexual Assault Crisis Line at 204-786-8631 or toll free at 1-888-292-7565. Klinic can also help those wishing to make a third-party report of sexual assault, meaning that survivors can report the sexual assault to a recognized third party, such as Klinic, and that crime is then reported by Klinic to the police without the survivor’s identifying information. Reporting can also take place through Cybertip.ca.

NOTICE OF BY-ELECTION CITY OF THOMPSON AND SCHOOL DISTRICT OF MYSTERY LAKE Notice is hereby given that a vote of City of Thompson and School District of Mystery Lake will be taken to elect 1 City Councillor and 1 School Trustee.

VOTING PLACES: Voting places will be open for voting on Tuesday the 10th day of September 2024 between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. at the Bill Comaskey Wellness Centre located in the Thompson Regional Community Centre.

IDENTIFICATION WILL BE REQUIRED BEFORE BEING ALLOWED TO VOTE. A person will be required to produce one piece of government issued photo identification (for example – driver’s license or passport) or at least two other documents that provide proof of identity.

ADVANCE VOTING: For the purpose of accommodating persons who are qualified to vote, but who have reason to believe that they will be absent or otherwise unable to attend their proper voting place on election day, an advance voting opportunity will be located at the Bill Comaskey Wellness Centre located in the Thompson Regional Community Centre and will be open September 4 between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Norma Howitt SEO City of Thompson and School District of Mystery Lake Phone: (204) 679-4848 NO PERSON OR CHILD UNDER THE AGE OF 18 YEARS WILL BE ALLOWED AT THE VOTING PLACES

Till 11 am only

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“Hyper energetic,” “Energetical” -Young DJs bring their inspiration to Sakihiwe festival

BY PATRICK HARNEY

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THE LEAF

On the weekend of June 29th, and 30th, three of Winnipeg’s youngest DJs took the stage at Turtle Island Neighbourhood Centre and Central Park outdoor stage as a part of Sākihiwē festival.

Going by their pseudonyms, DJ Und3adrat, DJ Fallen and DJ Sierra, these three DJs have been honed their skills, scratching, mixing and matching tracts, in workshops hosted

by Spence Neighbourhood Association.

The workshops have given them access to equipment as well as guidance from leaders, including 2016 DMC DJ championship winner DJ Brace and local legend Mama Cutsworth.

For the past couple years, they have had the opportunity to perform at community barbeques and spring

clean ups, but Sākihiwē marked their first time playing outside of community centres.

“My life revolves around music,” DJ Fallen says.

When discussing their influences, DJ Sierra emphatically replies “Skrillex” and says that their set will be “hyper energetic” which DJ Fallen coins as “energetical.”

“It’s fun learning, it’s experimental,” DJ Fallen says. “Like you gotta mix different vials of chemicals together, BPMs and keys.”

These workshops have not only taught them how to mix tracks as a DJ, but also taught them the ins and outs of being a professional performer, such as how to work out contracts and collect invoices.

The idea to purchase a turntable and begin developing young DJs came from Apid Gurung, a Youth & Family Program Manager at Spence Neighbourhood

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA THOMPSON CENTRAL OFFICE (TCO) 79 MCGILL PLACE, THOMPSON, MB Position: Awasis Emergency Placement Resource (EPR) House Manager (HM) One (1) Full Time Permanent position Summary of Position: Reporting to the Director of Foster Care, the Awasis Emergency Placement Resources (EPR) House Manager (HM) is responsible for the overall supervision and management of the agency’s EPR program. The EPR-HM will ensure that the safety and needs of children placed in the home are met in a culturally appropriate manner. The EPR-HM is responsible for the scheduling of staff and ensures proper staffing ratios are in place. The EPR-HM may be required to work evenings and weekends.

Qualifications: • Must be 18 years of age or older.

• Must be CPR/First Aid Certified. (will train).

• 2+ years working knowledge of Child and Family Services Standards and Regulations.

• Child Welfare supervisory and training experience.

• Experience working with children and youth.

• Possession of a valid driver’s license and access to a private vehicle for day-to-day job performance due to running errands requiring occasional to frequent local travel.

• Experience supervising staff, including but not limited to scheduling, managing performance, and providing direction.

• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multi-systemic team.

• Excellent problem solving and conflict resolution skills.

• Effective interpersonal skills.

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Excellent written communication skills.

• Excellent verbal communication skills.

• Proficient with Microsoft (Word and Outlook).

Association and former Youth & Family Program Manager Mungala Londe, who is a member of the hiphop group Lytics.

Gurung says that most youth are pushed towards sports, but there weren’t many free, community programs for youth interested in music.

As a result, they ordered the equipment and hired instructors to help individuals learn about how to be a DJ. “Our end goal is to create local youth superstars,” Gurung says.

However, the young DJ's journeys are difficult as Gurung says they do not have the money to get the DJs equipment to bring home.

Additionally, there is a lack of funding for music programs and the workshops will have to end after this month.

“The federal government and provincial government see more benefits in sports rather than music programming, I guess,” Gurung says.

“This June will be the last classes and then after

Patrick Harney, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Sakihiwe means “love another” in Cree and the festival helps to promote new talent and bring people together. DJ Fallen works on mixes at the SNA studio space Photo Patrick Harney

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA UNIT: WINNIPEG SERVICE DELIVERY OFFICE (WSDO) OR THOMPSON CENTRAL OFFICE (TCO) LOCATION: THOMPSON, MB OR WINNIPEG, MB Position: Accounting Clerk-Transition Program (TP)/ Post Majority Support Services (PMSS) One (1) Full-Time Permanent Position The Accounting Clerk-TP/PMSS performs accounting duties related to young persons who are/have transitioned from care with Awasis Agency. The Accounting Clerk-TP/PMSS is responsible for all finance related activities, including, managing the PMSS budget for Programming, Operations, and Indirect Services. The Accounting Clerk-TP/PMSS is responsible for entering data and issue correct payments to youth aged 18-26 approved for AYA extensions and/ or Post Majority Support Services. The Accounting Clerk-TP/PMSS is responsible for maintaining monthly spreadsheets and ensuring accurate information in both the accounting database FACTS and CFSIS database.

Qualifications: • A diploma in accounting, or Business Administration.

• 1 year of experience supervising others in an accounting department preferable.

• 3+ years of experience working in an accounting department; preferably in a child and family services environment.

• Demonstrated superior skills in using Microsoft suite.

• Demonstrated ability to manage emotionally charged people.

• Ability to speak Cree or Dene languages an asset.

that, we have to stop until we get the funding to hire another instructor.”

Despite this being the end, the young DJs are excited to perform.

“I am kind of building anxiety while at the same time we’re also getting hyped,” DJ Sierra says.

Winnipeggers should look out for DJ Und3adrat, Fallen and Sierra as they have dreams of being the city’s youngest ever DJs and eventually becoming professionals, producers and playing at massive festivals like Tomorrowland in Belgium.

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA THOMPSON CENTRAL OFFICE (TCO) 701 THOMPSON DR, THOMPSON, MB Position: Finance File Clerk One (1) Full Time Permanent position Summary of Position: The Finance File Clerk works in the Finance department.

Responsibilities include filing financial documents, matching invoices to purchase orders for payment verification, opening new files and labelling correctly, and maintaining all files up to date. The Finance File Clerk is detail oriented, can work independently, and works well in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications: • High School Education or equivalent.

• Some familiarity with Microsoft office (Excel, Word and Office Suite).

• 1 year experience working in an office se ng an asset.

• Class Driver icense.

• Demonstrated knowledge of orthern Communities.

• Ability to speak and write Cree/Dene an asset.

Working Conditions: • Demonstrated understanding and respect for Indigenous culture.

• Fast-paced, community-based, multi-disciplinary child welfare environment.

• Confidential environment with access to highly sensitive information.

• Satisfactory Criminal Record, Driver’s Abstract, Child Abuse Registry and Prior Contact checks prior to starting the position and throughout employment as required.

• Ability to speak Cree or Dene is an asset.

Working Conditions: • Fast-paced, community-based, multi-disciplinary child welfare environment.

• Confidential environment with access to highly sensitive information.

• Occasional overtime required in emergency situations.

• Satisfactory Criminal Record, Driver’s Abstract, Child Abuse Registry and Prior Contact checks prior to starting the position and throughout employment as required.

• Travel approximately 5% of time.

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience.

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience.

Closing Date: Tuesday, July 16, 2024

Closing Date: Tuesday, July 16, 2024

Closing Date: Tuesday, July 2 , 202

Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2024-070 on your resume/cover letter and in the subject line of your email in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2024-068 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process

Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-declare. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2024-073 on your resume/cover letter and include it in the subject line of your email, in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2024-073 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process

Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2024-07 on your resume/cover letter and in the subject line of your email in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2024-07 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process

Working Conditions: • arge, fast-paced, child welfare agency.

• Professional office environment.

• Access to confidential information.

• Satisfactory Driver’s Abstract, Criminal Record, Child Abuse Registry and Prior Contact checks, prior to beginning work and throughout employment as requested.

Friday ,July 12, 2024

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Manitoba farmers hoping for hot, dry weather to help with rain-soaked fields

BY DAVE BAXTER

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, WINNIPEG SUN

This growing season has been a frustrating and difficult one so far for Manitoba farmers, and one producer says he and others are just hoping that there will be enough hot and dry weather in the coming weeks to turn their fortunes around.

“It’s kind of crazy that we went from one extreme to the other in the course of a year,” Jake Eyre, a Minto-area farmer, and current vice president of the Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) said on Friday.

“We saw two years of drought throughout the province, and now it’s safe to say everywhere in the province has received more precipitation this growing season than in the last two years combined.”

Eyre said he grows a wide variety of crops at his farm, but this spring and summer’s relatively wet

weather combined with cool days has created some big issues for farmers across the province, including saturated fields that, in some cases, are so wet they can’t be seeded, as well as crops not growing as well as many had hoped so far.

“It’s not just the precipitation, because we also haven’t really had many days that have been 30 degrees or higher. I think it’s pretty safe to say farmers want some hot and dry weather and any hot and dry weather in the forecast would be a very welcome thing,” Eyre said.

“We would all welcome that.”

He added moisture in the ground is also an issue for farmers, because it makes crops more susceptible to diseases.

“What you see with this kind of moisture is the increased disease pressure with the field crops, because

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA UNIT: THOMPSON SERVICE DELIVERY OFFICE (TSDO) LOCATION: THOMPSON, MB Position: Child & Family Services Worker One (1) Full-Time Permanent Position The Child & Family Services (CFS) Worker implements the policies, procedures and specific directives of Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba when working with families and children in the field of child protection. The duties include responding to community service requests and carrying a case load of protection and voluntary family files. Working collaboratively with Family Enhancement, and Foster Care, the CFS Worker conducts interviews and assessments, follows up on allegations of child protection issues, maintains regular visits with clients, ensures accurate and timely documentation, develops case plans, and partners with collateral resources.

Qualifications: • Bachelor of Social Work Degree with experience in child welfare preferred or an equivalent combination of experience and training may be considered.

• Commitment to community-based service delivery.

• Knowledge of CFS legislation, standards, and issues an asset.

• Experience using Child & Family Services Information System (CFSIS) preferred.

• A desire to serve the community and work as part of a team to keep children safe.

• Experience of doing assessments, interviews, and counselling an asset.

• Acceptable written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to prioritize workloads and meet deadlines.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Teams, and Outlook.

• Sensitivity to, and an understanding of First Nations culture and values.

• Ability to speak and/or understand the Cree language an asset.

Working Conditions: • Fast-paced office environment.

• Access to sensitive information for which confidentiality is required.

• Overnight and remote travel approximately 30% of the time.

• Maintain a satisfactory Prior Contact check, Child Abuse Registry Check, Criminal Record Check and Driver’s Abstract prior to starting the position and throughout employment as required.

• Maintain a valid driver’s license and have access to a vehicle.

things like disease, bacteria, fungus, they like these kinds of wet conditions.”

But if the province continues to see wet weather and consistent rainy days in the coming weeks, Eyre said the issues producers are dealing with now will likely persist.

Eyre said KAP, an organization that advocates for agricultural producers in the province, is also asking farmers to be mindful of their own mental health and to reach out for support if they feel they need to, because he said the unpredictability of weather is one of the reasons farmers often deal with issues of stress, anxiety and depression.

“The thing we depend on the most is the one thing we can’t control, and I have had conversations recently and a lot of people are really feeling it, especially with going from one extreme to

the other,” he said. “So we continue to raise awareness of how mental health has to be at the forefront.

“There has been a lot more acceptances in the industry in the last few years of mental health, and we are seeing more and more conversations around it and willingness for farmers and their families to share their stories and be open about it, because people are realizing maintaining your own mental health is part of your life as a farmer, and an important part of the viability of your operation.

“We expect tractors and combines to run and they need maintenance and they need downtime, but a lot of the time we forget about ourselves, so we need to remember that we also need to replenish and make sure we are looking after ourselves.”

Any agricultural producer or family member that feels

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA OFFICE: YOR LANDING SUB OFFICE LOCATION: YOR LANDING, MB Position: Family Enhancement Worker One (1) Full-Time Permanent Position The Family Enhancement Worker will provide children and families with support services to keep them from entering the child and family services protection system by providing preventative service opportunities and resources, facilitating awareness and education, advocacy and counselling. The overall aim is to engage parents, extended family, and community partners in identifying problems and participating in services and supports that address family needs. The Family Enhancement Worker will utilize a continuum of resources, develop case plans, coordinate the resources and supports needed and arrange linkages/connections to other community resources such as day programs, respite services and other culturally appropriate resources. The Family Enhancement Worker will possess and utilize the interpersonal skills to work with children, families, staff, and collaterals.

Qualifications: • Bachelor of Social Work Degree (BSW) with experience in child welfare preferred, or a combination of experience and training • Commitment to community-based service delivery • Working knowledge of CFS legislation, standards and issues • Knowledge of Child & Family Services Information System (CFSIS) an asset • Assessment, interviewing, and counselling skills • Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills • Demonstrated crisis intervention and con ict resolution skills • A strong work ethic and reliable • Proven ability to prioritize workloads and meet deadlines • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently, as well as part of a prevention unit team • Sensitivity to, and an understanding of First Nations culture and values • Ability to speak and/or understand the Cree language would be an asset Working Conditions: • Fast-paced environment • Confidentiality environment with access to sensitive information • Overnight and remote travel approximately % of the time • Maintain a satisfactory Prior Contact check, Child Abuse Registry Check, Criminal Record Check and Driver’s Abstract and throughout employment • Maintain a valid driver’s license and have access to a vehicle

Salary: Awasis Agency endeavors to be an employer of choice, and offers a competitive salary, generous paid time off, and an excellent employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience.

Salary: Awasis Agency offers a competitive salary and employee benefit package. Salary will commensurate with education and experience.

Closing Date: Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Closing Date: Tuesday, July 2 , 2024

Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2024-066 on your resume/cover letter and include it in the subject line of your email, in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2024-066 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process

Awasis Agency provides service to Indigenous children and families, therefore preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Individuals interested in this challenging opportunity please reference Competition Number 2024-074 on your resume/cover letter and include it in the subject line of your email, in confidence to: Human Resources Department Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba Competition #2024-074 701 Thompson Drive, Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Fax: 204-778-8428 Email: hr@awasisagency.ca We thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process.

they need support or someone to talk to can access a variety of mental health services and resources though the not-for-profit Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program at manitobafarmerwellness. ca, or can contact the Manitoba Farm Rural and Sup-

port Services program by contacting 1-866-367-3276.

— 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.

Employment Opportunity Community Justice Worker Full Time Position – Misipawistik Cree Nation The Community Justice Worker (CJW) will be an employee of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) as part of the First Nations Justice Strategy (FNJS), which is a partnership between MKO, the Province of Manitoba and the Federal Justice Departments. The FNJS works to improve the current Justice System for MKO First Nation communities by providing alternatives and initiatives to the implementation of justice.

These alternatives will be provided through a Restorative Justice approach which are both culturally sensitive and appropriate.

The CJW networks with a variety of internal and external resources that will promote personal growth, healing and reconciliation for both the individual(s) and victim(s) of crime.The CJW will work with their respective community leadership by providing these alternatives that will help restore Balance, Harmony, and Peace within the community based on Traditional Indigenous Beliefs, Values, Culture and Teachings.

Roles and Responsibilities • Work under the supervision of the MKO Justice Programs Manager(s) or designate; • Manage Pre and Post Charge Diversions, Referrals from the Court, Crown or Police; • Review and assess all referrals/diversions for suitability/eligibility for Participation in the FNJS; • Regularly update the Crown, Court and/or Police with regards to the status of the referred matter(s); • Advise the Crown/Court and/or Police of all successful/unsuccessful diversion completions; • Attend training and deliver programming in the areas of Family Violence, Anger Management, peace-making, conflict resolution, mediation and any other as required; • Perform daily case management duties and maintain a proper filing system; • Provide written reports to the MKO Program Manager(s) on the status of all client referrals/diversions for tracking and statistical recording purposes; • Network with local and external resources as required; • Adhere to confidentiality with regards to client records and programs, and advise the Program Manager(s) immediately of any conflicts of interests that may arise; • Attend Court sittings regularly and develop on-going working relationships with the Crown, Defense and Police and any other referral source(s); • Participate in ongoing professional development and training as provided

by MKO; • Work with the Justice Portfolio Councillor in maintaining or establishing a Justice Committee and providing updates in the area of Justice to Chief and Council; • Follow through with any recommendations of the Justice Committee, elders, etc., which can include sharing circles, sentencing circles, peace-making process, mediation, conflict resolution and any other as recommended; • Compliance with all policies, procedures, by-laws and directives of the First Nation Community/Leadership; • Nations. All staff at MKO may be given other duties as assigned that enable MKO to fulfill the mandate and responsibility to its member communities.

Education and Experience • Minimum Grade 12 Diploma or equivalency; • Fluency in Cree, Dene, Oji-Cree, or any other Indigenous language within the MKO region is preferred; • Strong initiative and ability to work independently and as a team member; • Strong verbal and written communication skills; • Experience working in Indigenous and/or northern communities; • Proficient computer skills and the ability to use Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook; • Knowledge of issues relating to Justice and Policing related to First Nations as well as restorative justice practices; • Possess a valid Class 5F Manitoba Drivers license and access to a reliable vehicle; • Must have the ability to travel to various MKO communities as required, and to work flexible hours; • Satisfactory Criminal record, child abuse and vulnerable sector checks are required.

Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience Interested applicants are invited to submit their cover letter identifying the position applying for and resume, along with 3 professional reference listings (include a most recent employer reference) to: Human Resources at employment@mkonorth.com Deadline: Open Until Filled We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Preference will be given to qualified First Nations applicants; applicants are encouraged to self-declare in their resume or cover letter.

No phone calls will be accepted.

Incorporated in 1981 as the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO).

MKO is a non-profit, political advocacy organization that provides a collective voice on issues of inherent, Treaty, Indigenous, and human rights for citizens of the 26 sovereign First Nations we represent. The MKO First Nations are signatory to Treaties 4, 5, 6, and 10.

Please visit our website at mkonation.com

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High achievements mark graduation ceremony

BY MATTHIAS J. JOHNSON STAFF REPORTER, THOMPSON CITIZEN

It was only this past week that RD Parker Collegiate celebrated not only the end of a chapter but the beginning of a new journey. The path that has led the students to this moment has been filled with hard work, dedication, and countless moments of growth.

In a display of academic excellence, the recent graduation ceremony at RD Parker saw 36 students graduating with Honors with distinction, with an additional 16 graduating with honors. The event was a celebration of the hard work and dedication of the graduating class, with several outstanding individual achievements highlighted.

Anirudh Chhabra was awarded the prestigious School District Trustee Academic Award for his remarkable academic performance, boasting an exceptional average of 99.16%. This accolade acknowledged Chhabra's outstanding performance in specific grade 12 academic courses, which included English, Math, as well as Physical Education (PE). Notably, the PE credit was a requirement for consideration, despite not being factored into the average calculation due to its pass/fail nature. In addition to these core subjects, Chhabra's next four best grade 12 course marks, taken in any year, were also integral in securing this remarkable

achievement.

Alanna Saskowski, another accomplished student, was honored with the School District Trustee Vocational Academic Award in Hairstyling, achieving an impressive average of 90.3%. This award recognized Saskowski's exceptional performance in specific grade 12 vo-

cational courses, comprising English, Math, and Physical Education (PE), with the additional requirement of having received a technical vocational major certificate.

Notably, as with Chhabra's award, the four best grade 12 vocational course marks taken in any year were taken into account for this award.

Anirudh Chhabra's exceptional academic prowess was further recognized by his receipt of the Governor General’s Academic Bronze Medal, with an outstanding average of 99.06%. This award, with a rich history dating back to 1873, signifies one of the most prestigious accolades attainable

by a student in a Canadian educational institution. The award is based on the student's performance across all grade 11 and grade 12 courses, as listed on the student's official transcript of grades issued by the ministry of education.

Overall, the graduation ceremony was a testament to

Photo by Matthias J. Johnson the talent and dedication of the graduating students, with special recognition given to these outstanding academic achievements. As a reflection of the commitment to academic excellence, the event served as a source of pride for the school community and an inspiration for future students.

Mayor congratulates 139 graduates at RDPC ceremony

BY COLLEEN SMOOK MAYOR

Congratulations, grads. There are 139 of you. Wow. I had children who graduated between 1988 and 2002.

And I went to my grandchild’s kindergarten graduation today at Juniper, so I’m not done yet. We’re still here.

I wanted to talk about the program.

A lot of you are third- and fourth-generation Thompsonites. I was looking at Genevieve’s name and thinking about when her dad, Grandpa Augustino, came to Thompson in the middle

RAIN MILES

WAY TO GO! CONGRATULATIONS! 2024 Graduation

of winter to work in the construction industry from the beautiful country of Portugal. Seeing his granddaughter graduating tonight is absolutely wonderful.

I also have a niece graduating— Miss Amy—she’s third generation.

Tom is here tonight, too. This definitely shows that Thompson is growing.

But I think what we really have to acknowledge is the Grand Chief sitting over to my left. This is their territory, and for all you kids from

outlying communities, your parents, grandparents, and guardians entrust you to come to RD Parker. It is truly an honor for us to have you in the city of Thompson.

I also want to acknowledge Councillor Lundmark, a fellow councilor who is also here tonight, with a nephew graduating. It’s just cool.

So, on behalf of all the staff at TRCC and the City of Thompson, my fellow councillors, and myself, congratulations, grads. It’s going to be a great day. Thank you.

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Valedictorian Ryan urges RDPC grads to embrace uniqueness

BY DION RYAN VALEDICTORIAN

Good afternoon, everybody. I’ve been told that long valedictorian speeches are boring and repetitive.

So I’ll try to keep this short and sweet, just like me. And I’ll leave Parody’s hairline out of it.

There are a lot of people in my life I’d like to thank.

Thank you to the premier for the lovely video he sent, thanking all the staff and faculty who made this year one worth remembering.

Thank you to all of my teachers who put up with the nonstop talking. Thank you to all my coaches for taking time out of your day to provide guidance. Sports were my favourite part of high school, and none of it would have been possible if Mr. Alcohol hadn’t taken a chance on me. I’d also like to thank all of my friends, the people who have pushed me to become a better person, been there when I needed them most, and given advice I might not have wanted to hear.

But the most important people I want to thank are my parents. They have raised me to become the person I am and have sacrificed so much in their lives to make mine better.

My mom is probably somewhere out there crying right now. My dad’s probably wondering how I’m going to wrap this up.

Since the start of the year, I kind of knew I had valedictorian locked in, and I’ve been constantly thinking about what I would say up here. I looked up the best graduation speeches and best valedictorian speeches on YouTube, but found that most of them have the same formula, same monotone voice, same jokes. I want to say something that people remember as they go on with their lives. Maybe if I’m lucky enough, the

speech will be on TikTok, with little games being played underneath it.

My dad told me the only thing he remembered from his graduation was a teacher saying, “Life is like toilet paper; it goes quicker the closer you get to the end.”

So I’m hoping I can give a few pieces of advice worth remembering. In life, a lot of people like to say things like, “I want to be Elon Musk. I want to be LeBron James,” which I can admit, I wanted to be LeBron, but I don’t need to explain why. I ask that you all change your way of thinking. Look to become you. Take that risk, experience something new, and conquer that fear. Life is too damn short to be worrying about if people can see your insecurities. The most valuable thing in the universe is taken for granted all the time, and we only notice when it’s too late.

I’m incredibly proud of what this graduating class has accomplished. During the last COVID year, even lying in bed during all the online classes was easy; it was still a new learning curve and a difficult change in a lot of our lives. I understand that some people don’t see how hard things can be for you sometimes, but just by being here, it shows perseverance and resilience.

Life does not wait for you to get up and keep going.

There is no happiness in life without sadness, just like there is no success without failure. We are entering a new, more unpredictable AI-supported world. But everything in our lives has been unpredictable, so I’m sure that you will all stay on your feet and keep striving.

That being said, there’s so much more that I could talk about here. I hope I was able to make an impact. Thank you all for your time. Congratulations, RD Parker Class of 2024.

Friday, July 12, 2024

Principal Rempel bids farewell to RDPC at graduation BONNIE REMPEL RDPC PRINCIPAL

Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the Class of 2024’s graduation ceremony. I can’t begin without first expressing my joy at seeing so many loved ones in this room to celebrate the accomplishments of this amazing group of young adults.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with this graduating class over the past four, five, and even six years, and now together, we will be closing the RD Parker door and opening another. For some, they’ll be heading into postsecondary education; for others, right into the workforce. Some may

decide to take a year off, and as for me, retirement is in the cards.

With that being said, I wanted to take a moment to thank the graduating class of 2024 for being so kind and respectful over the years, even when their visits to my office were not the warm and fuzzy kind.

They understood that those hard conversations with me came from a place of genuine care and concern for their well-being.

I did receive a little payback this year when the grad prank was to gift wrap my entire office. Each and everything in my office was wrapped up. Then I saw there were three or

four presents on my desk and I got a little excited, thinking how thoughtful.

But no, it was just my own stuff all wrapped up as presents. Just so you know, it took me well over an hour just to unwrap my desk as I sat beside the twinkling lights from a Christmas tree decorated by my side. Nice job, super prank.

Before I end this evening, I want to express how truly honored and grateful I am to have been given the privilege to serve the community of Thompson for the past 32 years in education.

My husband and I are moving south, not because we do not love the north, but to be closer to our children.

So, graduating Class of 2024, wherever you may end up in this life, always remember where you came from. Thompson is strong.

Thompson is a family.

Thompson is resilient. And Thompson is the quiet community that has provided many unbelievable opportunities for so many and will continue to do so for many more years. Speak kindly about where you came from because it’s an important part of who you are.

I wish you all that is good in this lifetime. Believe in good things. Believe in people. Believe in yourself, and always choose kindness. Good luck.

Two graduates from Indigenous student transition program celebrate success

BY MATTHIAS J. JOHNSON STAFF REPORTER, THOMPSON CITIZEN

As the academic year comes to a close, the Brandon University community celebrated the accomplishments of its graduating students, among them, two exceptional individuals who successfully completed their degrees after participating in the university's Indigenous Student Transition Program. This program, introduced in 2020, aims to facilitate a smooth transition for Indigenous students as they embark on their post-secondary education journey at Brandon University (BU).

Lauren Letexier, a proud Métis student from Fisher Branch, was among the graduates who completed her Bachelor of Science, specializing in Psychology, under the supportive guidance of the Indigenous Student Transition Program.

Reflecting on her time at BU, Letexier emphasized the impactful role played

by Deidre Gregory, the program coordinator, in providing unwavering support and

Photo courtesy of Brandon University Lauren Letexier encouragement. The nurtur- gratitude for the consistent ing environment created by support she received, noting the program and the friend- that the program's influence ships formed with fellow had been pivotal in helping students, particularly those her achieve her academic she met through the residen- goals. Looking towards her tial community during her future, Letexier revealed her first year at BU, have been plans to continue her studies instrumental in shaping Le- at BU, pursuing a Bachelor texier's academic journey. of Education (After DeLetexier expressed her gree). Her success stands as a testament to the effectiveness of programs designed to offer tailored support to Indigenous students, emCongratulations to the Class of 2024! powering them to thrive in their academic pursuits.

The board and staff of TNRC proudly Enoch Ouskun, hailing from the Opaskwayak celebrate your hard work and Cree Nation (OCN) and achievements. Here’s to your a Brandon resident since 1999, also reached a sigbright future and continued success! nificant milestone as he proudly graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration, majoring in Business Accounting. Ouskun praised the dedicated faculty and staff at BU for their consistent support and accessibility, which contributed significantly to his academic success. He provided special recognition to Cora Dupuis, the Co-op Coordinator, for her instrumental support in guiding him through the professional landscape and offering valuable advice that ultimately led to his successful

placement as an Articling Accountant at MNP. Emphasizing the impact of the Indigenous Student Transition Program, Ouskun expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support he received during his academic journey. He attributed much of his success to the program's coordinator, Deidre Gregory, emphasizing her role in providing guidance and invaluable assistance during his initial year of higher education, which laid the foundation for his subsequent achievements.

Sharing her sentiments, Deidre Gregory, the Coordinator of the Indigenous Student Transition Program, underlined the program's commitment to supporting and empowering Indigenous students in their pursuit of higher education.

Gregory acknowledged the significance of completing a university degree and applauded the resilience and determination exhibited

by Indigenous students in reaching their academic goals. She highlighted the collaborative effort involving the Indigenous Peoples’ Centre (IPC), Knowledge Keepers, staff, and fellow students in creating a nurturing and supportive environment for Indigenous students as they embark on their academic endeavors.

The success stories of Letexier and Ouskun underscore the positive impact of programs tailored to support Indigenous students in their transition to post-secondary education.

Their achievements serve as a testament to the potential for success when students receive dedicated support and guidance throughout their academic journey. As the university continues to champion programs designed to offer tailored support to Indigenous students, it remains committed to nurturing an inclusive and supportive academic environment where all students can thrive and reach their full potential.

Friday ,July 12, 2024

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Experts address risks of social media on youth

BY BRENDA SAWATZKY

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THE NIVERVILLE CITIZEN

It should come as no surprise to anyone that the years following the COVID-19 pandemic have revealed a lot of difficult things about human nature.

Not the least of these insights is the negative role social media now plays in the lives of many young people.

Driven to physical isolation during the first two years of the pandemic, youth naturally turned to social media to maintain relationships and stay connected.

But experts say that this screentime obsession hasn’t tapered off much since the restrictions were lifted.

“Emerging evidence published since the Canadian Paediatric Society’s 2019 position statement on digital media use by school-aged children and adolescents correlates social media use and adverse mental health impacts—effects that have magnified since the onset of the pandemic,” says the Canadian Paediatric Society’s (CPS) website. “Evidence gaps exist on the long-term impacts of social media use and overuse due to novel technologies, but there are enough red flags to warrant action. We are in the midst of a youth mental health crisis that demands meaningful and conscientious mitigation measures.”

Long before the pandemic, parents and experts alike were already recognizing the detrimental effect of social media on children in terms of broad content exposure and online behaviours such as sexting and cyberbullying.

According to the CPS, though, screentime remains a defining factor in the research of healthy media use among kids.

Based on a study of students across Ontario and Alberta, the CPS says that the average high school student spends more than 7.5 hours per day on various screens. For a good many of them, much of that time is spent on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.

However, it’s not just

Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash older teens who are overly engaged in screentime.

“Three-quarters of Canadian parents are concerned about how much time children spend using media, reporting that 36 percent of their 10- to 13-year-olds spent 3 hours or more per day using digital devices for reasons unrelated to school work,” says CPS. Emma Duerden, the Canada Research Chair in neuroscience and learning disorders at Western University, says that some of the statistics paint an even more dire picture.

According to Duerden’s research, screentime today is down only slightly from what some parents were reporting as the norm during the early months of the pan-

JOB POSTING Full-Time Day Care Worker

While hours are anticipated to be typically 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., there will be a minimum of one evening per week of programming. Also, please note that in order to meet the needs of clients, flexible shifts are required.

This position involves working in close collaboration with the Children’s Counselor in providing/assisting in child-minding services for emergency, transition and the outreach program. The position will also involve working closely with the Counselors on both the E-floor and Transition floor in the scheduling of the individual and groups sessions.

This includes providing a safe and healthy environment, planning and implementing on-site and off-site activities i.e. crafts/music/baking and play therapy. Must be able to provide nutritious snacks. Other responsibilities include cleaning/sanitizing and inputting stats into HIFIS. If you are interested in applying for this position or require further information with respect to nature of the position, qualifications, required knowledge, education and skills*, please contact Helen Trudeau (Executive Director) or Christine Fenner (Program Manager) by March 15/2024 by 4 pm.

demic. At that time, reports indicated that 13 hours a day on screens for six- to 12-year-olds was common.

Using brain imaging to study the impacts of social media on children’s brains, Duerden has found that obsessive use is increasing the levels of childhood depression, anxiety, and aggression.

“Absolutely, I think this is a public health issue,” Duerden told the CBC. In response, the U.S. surgeon general, Dr. Vivek Murthy, put out a call in May recommending that social media platforms include health warnings on their sites and apps similar to those found on cigarette packs.

Murthy has been said to criticize tech companies for unleashing powerful technology without providing adequate safety measures or accountability.

Shortly after, Canada’s Minister of Health, Mark Holland, also went public on this subject—although he didn’t agree with Murthy’s conclusion.

Warning labels wouldn’t be helpful, he said. Instead parents should be having these conversations with their kids.

What Locals Think One parent, Jennie Rempel, agrees with Holland. She has three children between the ages of 11 and 16.

“Warning labels will do

JOB POSTING Counselor Level 1 Casual

The successful client will have a working understanding of Domestic and/or Family violence and related issues. Have one or more years of counseling experience, preferably in the area of crisis intervention or domestic/family violence, with some professional training i.e. Applied Counseling Certificate and/or relevant post-secondary education (Social work, Nursing or work-related experience).

Have a current CPR and First Aide or willing to obtain and recent Child abuse registry/Criminal record check. Valid Driver’s license or willing to obtain.

Must be able to work cross-culturally, the ability to speak a second language is an asset. Have an understanding and respect of LGBTQ1 issues and the vulnerable sectors.

Be willing to work shift work: including days, afternoons, nights, weekends and stat holidays as required.

Be reliable, dependable, flexible, and punctual and have a good work ethic.

If you are interested in applying for a position please submit an up to date resume to the Program Manager Christine Fenner/or Executive Director Helen Trudeau. Applications are due by March 15, 2023 by 4 pm.

nothing,” Rempel says. “It’s up to parents to set limits.”

It’s no easy task for any parent to manage, she admits, but it begins with open conversations with your kids.

“As parents we have to be on top of it,” she says.

“Blocking them, monitoring, checking their phones and laptops.”

As well, Rempel believes that parents should be researching safer alternatives, such as Messenger Kids, which doesn’t require a Facebook profile and can be monitored by parents.

Putting a shutoff timer on the Wi-Fi router, she adds, is a good way to manage screen use for the entire family.

Another parents, Ricki Harms, agrees that there’s little benefit to a warning label on a social media site.

“I’m very thankful I grew up without social media,” says Harms. “It’s terrible for kids. Added peer pressure, more opportunities for bullying… and ridiculous beauty standards for girls to try and achieve. But a warning label wouldn’t really fix any of that. If you are on it, it will affect you.”

Elizabeth Legault says that warning labels on social media may actually have the opposite effect of what they intend.

“Warning labels just make kids want something more,” says Legault. “[Teaching] abstinence instead of sex education is a really good example of this.

Lack of education causes kids to not understand what they need to do to prevent certain things and also to hide those things from their folks.”

From Jazmin Dobson’s viewpoint, kids have no business being on social media at all. But since they are, warning labels may pose some benefit.

“The warning labels on my cigarette packs don’t stop me from smoking,” Dobson says. “But at least I am fully informed about the choice that I’m making.

Warning labels are a way to inform the general public of the dangers of something.

Even adults should be

aware and informed of the dangers of social media.”

Insights from a Child Psychologist Dr. Jo Ann Unger is a Winnipeg-based child and family psychologist. She and a colleague have set out to write a book on the subject of the effects of social media and screentime on children.

Almost more importantly, she says, the book will provide useful tools to help parents manage the healthy use of screens and apps.

Unger says that research on the subject is certainly imperative in helping set standards that can protect kids. Parents need to understand, though, that the research is based on averages. Recognizing that, they should know that it is possible for them to develop healthy family practices which in turn create healthier kids.

It’s all about context.

How well are children being supported, how full is their life with other distractions, and what challenges are they facing that might make them more vulnerable?

“When we’re looking at these different types of research studies, what we’re often seeing is the averages,” Unger says.

“In that regard, having a warning that’s up to date is useful [on average]. There is reason to believe that we are not doing a good job of making the internet or social media platforms set up in such a way that it supports adolescent mental health.”

While she doesn’t deny that social media screentime can have adverse affects on adults, too, without question youth and children are exponentially more vulnerable. This is due to their immaturity in terms of brain development, identity development, and social and emotional development.

“All [adolescents] have these elements of really being sensitive to rejection, really being sensitive to the approval of others, and figuring out where they belong in terms of their friend groups,” says Unger.

Continued on page 12

JOB POSTING Part-Time Counselors Level 1 Sixteen (16) hours/week (1) (Days)

We are a 24/7 facility, so shifts include days, evenings and weekends The successful client will have a working understanding of Domestic and/or Family violence and related issues. Have one or more years of counseling experience, preferably in the area of crisis intervention or domestic/family violence, with some professional training i.e. Applied Counseling Certificate and/or relevant post-secondary education (Social work, Nursing or work-related experience).

Have a current CPR and First Aide or willing to obtain and recent Child abuse registry/Criminal record check. Valid Driver’s license or willing to obtain.

Must be able to work cross-culturally, the ability to speak a second language is an asset. Have an understanding and respect of LGBTQ1 issues and the vulnerable sectors.

Be willing to work shift work (days, afternoons, and nights) on weekends and stat holidays as required.

Be reliable, dependable, flexible, and punctual and have a good work ethic.

If you are interested in applying for a position please submit an up to date resume to the Program Manager Christine Fenner/or Executive Director Helen Trudeau. Applications are due by March 15/2024 by 4 pm.

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Friday, July 12, 2024

Experts address risks of social media on youth Continued from page 11 “They’re differentiating from their parents, appropriately so, and they’re looking to their peers more than they ever have before for information, for validation, and for support.”

As well, she adds, the fear of missing out is much stronger in adolescents than in adults.

“For adolescents it’s like, ‘If I’m not online, I’m going to miss something that’s very important socially and that will have a negative impact on my relationships or my sense of belonging,’” Unger says.

We are by nature, after all, flock creatures. Social connection is where we derive a sense of security and love. So a sense of separation or not belonging can activate a survival instinct, making isolation feel bigger than it actually is.

Unfortunately, Unger adds, social media is only pseudo-social in nature.

It gives the appearance of engagement but leaves out a key element that only person-to-person contact can achieve: nonverbal communication. Facial and body cues tell us so much.

“It gives you a social hit but not enough of the real stuff to keep you [mentally] healthy,” Unger says. “To me it’s just a nice supplement to a real relationship, but it can’t replace it.”

Another problem with extended screentime, she adds, is that it provides constant distraction from real life.

While it’s an effective boredom prevention tool, she reminds parents that boredom breeds creativity, making it an essential part of life in terms of personal growth.

But what is it that makes social media an obsession in the first place?

According to Unger, it provides an instantaneous fix and it’s with you all the time. The reinforcement patterns which are built right into social media platforms—the use of symbols indicating “likes” and “loves”—are mechanisms for approval, something we all crave.

“That, I think, is what we need to be addressing,” Unger says. “How these social media algorithms and reinforcement patterns are set up to actually keep people engaged. That’s where the changes and regulations need to come in. Right now, they’re set up to benefit the app and their advertisers. They’re there to make money, but the cost is coming at our children’s mental health.”

The use of algorithms, Unger says, also adds to the addictive quality of social media. Designed to keep users engaged and scrolling longer, they can have a polarizing effect.

“It’s tailored to you,” Unger says. “What you’ve clicked on before, it will give you more of that. And that’s actually influencing the polarization of our world right now. Because it pulls you more and more

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL FULL TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE CHILDREN’S ORAL HEALTH INITIATIVE DENTAL WORKER AIDE - WINNIPEG, MB The community-based Dental Worker Aide will work in partnership with the Dental Hygienist and other Community Health Professionals to provide community –based preventive dental services for children aged 0-7 years enrolled in COHI. DUTIES: • Administration of forms, records, and supplies • Distributes and collects consent forms and medical information from families • Educates and promotes good oral health habits to children and pre/postnatal families • Establish and manage community toothbrush program • Assistance in application of fluoride varnish to children’s teeth • Assisting the dental professional while preforming COHI services such as dental sealants • Schedules and manages appointment bookings for children for future COHI dental services such as fluoride and sealants • Provide oral health sessions for pre/postnatal women, parents/caregivers, children up to the age of 7, and infants • Recording dental chart information under the supervision of the dental professional • Monitors community dental inventory • Others as deemed necessary QUALIFICATIONS: • Must have excellent oral and written skills • Must be computer literate • Knowledgeable of local First Nations language is an asset • Able to work independently • Display a high level of self-initiation • Child Abuse Registry Check • Criminal Record Check • Must be willing to travel to communities • Valid Manitoba Driver’s License A written application with a detailed resume, including at least two references with written permission to contact the references and your latest immediate supervisor, should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager Keewatin Tribal Council Inc. 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N 0Y4 Email: lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax: 204 677-0256 Applications will be accepted until position is filled. We wish to thank those that apply for this position but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Photo by dole777 on Unsplash in one direction, away from the average, toward one end of a pole.”

It’s this external curation of our interests that prevents us from finding the balance that comes from perspective. One has to be very intentional in their search for a wider spectrum of information to find balance.

Children rarely do that.

Responsibility But where does the responsibility lie—big tech, the regulators, or parents?

In Unger’s mind, the onus falls on all three.

“Even we as adults struggle with self-regulation,” she says. “But teenagers’ brains don’t finish developing till they’re 25, so to expect them to self-regulate something that is very re-

inforcing and is designed to be so, is not realistic.”

That doesn’t mean they can’t be coached, she adds, but it would serve parents well to enforce screentime rules. These might include switching off the Wi-Fi or turning in cellphones at a certain time of day.

Without question, the best way to reinforce any family policy is to model it.

“There’s research to show that high use [of screens] in parents equals high use in kids,” Unger says. “And high use with parents affects the parent-child relationship as well.”

Another question many parents struggle with an answer to is when their child is ready to own their own cellphone device. In Un-

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL FINANCE CLERK II PERMANENT, FULL-TIME Reporting to the Director of Finance and Administration, the Finance Clerk II is responsible for performing data entry and related duties. The Finance Clerk II is responsible for providing financial and clerical services in order to ensure effective, efficient and accurate financial and administrative operations. The Finance Clerk II must comply with established policies and procedures.

DUTIES: • The Finance Clerk II is responsible for accounts receivable, staff travel, bank reconciliations, visa statement processing, and other monthly financial processing activities as re uested.

• Calculate, prepare and issue documents related to these activities using computeri ed and manual systems.

• Code, total, batch, enter, verify and reconcile related transactions in a subledger or computer system.

• Prepare period reports.

• Act as support for other finance positions when re uired.

• Perform other related duties as re uested.

QUALIFICATIONS: • Diploma in Accounting, Finance or usiness Administration and two years of finance experience, or an acceptable e uivalent combination of education and experience.

• Must be bondable.

• Experience with SA E 00 ACCPAC modules, Microsoft Office programs with emphasis in Excel spreadsheets.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Must have a highly developed sense of discretion for handling confidential information and monetary transactions.

• Ability to work under sporadic stress and/or pressure.

• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.

A written application with detailed resume, including minimum two references with written permission to contact the references and your most recent immediate supervisors should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager Keewatin Tribal Council 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N OY4 Email: lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax: 204 677-0256 Closing Date: 4:00 p.m. Friday, uly, 2, 2024 Late applications will not be accepted We would like to thank those that apply for the position but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted.

ger’s opinion, this shouldn’t happen before they turn 12.

“For some parents, if the child is independently transporting themselves, like walking to school, they might want to have a cellphone for safety and that sort of thing,” says Unger.

“But I would challenge parents to think about why their child would need their own device. So if there is a need that it meets, that’s what I would use as my parameter as opposed to, ‘Well, their friends have one.’”

It’s a tricky dance, though, when parents don’t want to be the reason their child becomes socially ostracized.

One strategy to address that, she says, would be to collaborate with the parents of your child’s friend group in order come to a mutual agreeable age in which the majority feels their kids will get cellphones.

The prohibitive cost of

giving every member of the family their own cellphone also needs to be considered for many families.

Signs to Watch For Unger says there are a few signs parents can watch for when it comes to determining if their children are struggling due to social media overuse.

Parents should pay attention to how engaged their child is when trying to converse with them face to face.

Are their marks at school suffering? Do they tend to isolate in their rooms or become quiet in public? Do they get anxious when you suggest they put the phone away in order to do an activity with you?

Finally, how much time are they spending in person-to-person connections with friends and how much physical activity are they engaged in on a regular basis?

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL PART TIME JANITOR This position takes direction from and reports to the Office Manager. The primary role includes performing Janitorial duties, and other miscellaneous duties in order to ensure that Tribal Council buildings and facilities are maintained in a health, safe and sanitary manner.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Clean and care for all KTC buildings and facilities in order to ensure they are maintained in a safe and healthy manner • Sweep, vacuum, shampoo, wax, and mop the floors/rugs • Sanitize restrooms • Empty trash, recycling, and compost • Wash windows, inside • Make sure the establishment is clean and meets all safety requirements • Wash walls, ceilings, and light fixtures regularly QUALIFICTIONS • Knowledge of standard cleaning procedures, and equipment • Knowledge of the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System • Ability to read and understand labels and instructions particularly on the use and application of cleaning chemicals and products • Understand health and safety regulations • Ability to work independently and under little supervision • Reliable and takes direction well.

A written application with detailed resume, including at least two references, with written permission to contact the references and your latest immediate supervisor should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager Keewatin Tribal Council Inc. 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N 0Y4 Fax No.: 204-677-0256 Email: lbeardy@ktc.ca Applications will be accepted until 4:00 p.m., Friday, July 12, 2024.

We would like to thank all those that apply for the position, but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted

Friday ,July 12, 2024

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• Page A13

Muralist’s art “weapon of mass creation”–Winnipeg artist estimates has created 11 acres of mural art across the world in his career

BY BEV SOLOMON

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THE LEAF

Charlie Johnston has been at it again. This time in the West End. Whenever he strikes, a colorful menagerie of characters, action and story, usually one of huge proportions, is left behind.

Think back, have you ever driven or walked by the Hydro Building depicting two children gazing at a blue sky with fluffy clouds in the Polo Park area? Charlie.

The massive street car in a 1930’s scene at St. Regis Hotel downtown, Charlie.

A horse race (Portage and Simcoe), Lionel L. Fitzgerald (Portage and Maryland), Italian soccer, Valour Road veterans, dancers, wolves, race cars, bees, soldiers, local celebrities and historical figures. Charlie, Charlie, Charlie, Charlie.

He has over 50 murals in Winnipeg alone.

He has hundreds scattered on buildings all over Canada, the US and even in China.

He’s created roughly 11 acres of mural art in his career.

All this was unknown to me, as I stood one day contemplating one of his most recent fanciful works on a Sargent Ave. brick building, I decided there that I would make it my mission to get ahold of him.

I had questions…. a curiosity that grew every time I saw this mural…a sleepy gigantic mouse in pj’s, a tiny freaked out purple striped cat, a complicated machine coming out of cheese holes, and a wacky looking lean man in pointed shoes, green jacket, goggles, wild white hair under a top hat ringed with random items.

His hands are holding the handle that would manipulate the machine to lower a tiny mouse trap hanging above the mouse. Crazy!

Looney tunes! A page out of a children’s book by a master illustrator, but WHAT was it about?

Charlie Johnston shows off his own Madd Hatter hat.

(Photo provided) I pulled open the office door on the other side of the mural…of Five Stones Inc. and chatted to the owners, Stephanie and Travis Unger.

Do you know what this is about? No, they said, the artist is Charlie Johnston though. Look him up! So I did. And I found out who that man was on the mural, the one with the intense eyes looking through those goggles, pointed shoes and top hat.

It was Charlie.

“Coffee?” he offered, after sweeping up dry pine

Photo by Bev Solomon, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter What is it? asked reporter Bev Solomon. The mural had the effect its creator wanted; "It puts you in another place, puts you in Wonderland.” Photo Bev Solomon needles off the floor, bare socks making headway up the stairs. I had dropped by for a chat, and was familiar with houses like these.

I live in one similar…the style from 100 years ago, a two story Winnipeg century house. Lots of story here, memories, character. Like the owner, although Johnston isn’t 100 years old.

I spied another mouse in the room. Did I mention he also sculpts?

“This mouse is part of my Wonderland series sculptures,” he said. “I have a rabbit I’ll show you later in the other room.”

Wonderland, ah yes. Now I realized what I was getting into. The world of Charlie Johnston, the brain behind the paint and brush.

He started mural craft in his 20’s, breaking into the world and work of silk screen billboards after graduating from the Fine Arts program at the University of Manitoba. Construction jobs followed after that.

Electrical work. Painting.

Installing steel structures.

“This was not my calling and I was left wondering what I was doing this for.

I realized later, I was learning fundamental skills of my life work,” Johnston remembers.

The 90’s saw him shift into more designing and setting up scaffolding for painting bigger and bigger murals on outdoor buildings.

“A Better Mousetrap,” the mural on Sargent Ave is the second mural of a three part series of his ‘Wonderland’ theme. Sponsored by West End city councillor Cindy Gilroy and West End Biz, he spent four Saturdays in a row, painting and chatting with those stopping to watch.

The first in the series,

“Fractal Tea Time,” can be found on a building in Selkirk.

“One man stood to watch for a while, and then went home to bring his son. They both stood there to watch!” he said. “It’s all about attitude,” he continues, ”I’d like to think the murals bring that feeling of life and vibrancy to the streets. It invigorates

the streets with creativity for anyone to experience. It’s kind of like setting a tension trap out there…it grabs your attention away from whatever you are thinking about and puts you in another place, puts you in Wonderland.”

“Real art is about transformation” he says, “I like to take the thought process

CREE NATION CHILD & FAMILY CARING AGENCY Child & Family Services Worker– Permanent Position LOCATION: Thompson, MB OFFICE: Thompson, MB Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency (CNCFCA) is responsible for administering and providing for the delivery of Child and Family Services. CNCFCA is dedicated to providing comprehensive CFS Services that are community-based and incorporate both protection and prevention services.

Our agency will strive to maintain family unity.

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Unit Supervisor(s), the Child & Family Service Worker is responsible for providing and administering CFS Services in accordance with the Child & Family Services Act. RESPONSIBILITIES: § Responsible for gathering information and assessing child and family functioning problems § Responsible for the development of case plans for children and families within program guidelines and provide referrals, support, guidance and problem solving § Responsible for all file documentation, referrals, ensuring services are applied § Case Monitoring, Risk Assessment & Follow up § Provides case management and support for children in care and families QUALIFICATIONS § Work experience in Child and Family Services with demonstrated knowledge of child development, family centered service, early intervention, family support and community-based services § Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or related undergraduate degree in Human Services (preferred) § Ability to converse fluently in Cree (preferred) § Excellent assessment, intervention and writing skills § Knowledge of the Child and Family Services Act and provincial standards § Ability to use a variety of computer applications including CFSIS and FACTS CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT § Must pass a criminal records check, child abuse and prior check § Cannot be active on a protection case § Maintain absolute confidentiality § Varied amounts of travel required § Must have a valid Manitoba driver’s license § Must be able to provide own vehicle for work § Other duties related to the position may be assigned Deadline: July 24, 2024 @ 4:00

Thompson RCMP Drug Tip Line

204-677-6995

SUBMIT COVER LETTER & RESUMES ALONG WITH THREE (3) REFERENCES MARKED “PERSONAL & CONFIDENTIAL” TO: Human Resource Manager Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency Box 10130, Opaskwayak, MB. R0B 2J0 Fax: 204-623-3847 Email: hr@creenation.ca We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

“Please visit our website at www.https://creenation.ca”

to another level. The power needed to create is greater than that to destroy. Like my logo, of atoms spinning around protons and neutrons at the center. Art is the weapon of mass creation."

His weapon of mass creations around the city, province and the country are set to last for at least 75 years, with the type of paint available these days.

That is enough time to inspire many generations of artists old and new. One of his favourite jobs is to collaborate with other artists or children in school projects.

650 children in a science school in Calgary were guided by Johnston through a project that each one saw an ugly building they walked by everyday to their playground, transformed into a multi level colorful “Urban

Universe.”

He is sure they will never forget their experience, and hopes they realize the world around them as a canvas (or brick wall) just waiting for the creative touch of their creative minds and hands.

Driving home after meeting Johnston, I passed at least five murals that I now knew as his.

The mystery was solved in “The Better Mousetrap,” and I was discovering my mind was a whirl, kind of like his signature logo… of atoms, neurons and protons…the creative process humming.

To check out Johnston’s many murals in Winnipeg you can find a listing in themuralsofwinnipeg.com (Charlie Johnston C5 Artworks), or follow his Instagram account (c5charlie).

Employment Opportunity Administrative Assistant Mental Wellness Program Full-Time Position Thompson, Manitoba Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. is seeking an organized, motivated individual to work under the supervision of the Mental Wellness Manager.

The successful incumbent will be responsible for providing administrative support to the Mental Wellness Manager and keep the program coordinated and provide additional supports with the Mental Wellness Program in the areas development and implementation of office procedures and systems and assist with monitoring and maintain various filing and databases.

Roles and Responsibilities • Provides technical and administrative support to the Mental Health Wellness Manager regarding service agreements of Mental Health Wellness Program with independent contractors or other contracted service providers.

• Tracking, monitoring and follow up of quarterly reports and payments with Wellness Team service providers.

• Maintain a data base of capacity development needs for Mental Health Wellness Program.

• Maintaining a directory of key stakeholders and community resources within Manitoba First Nation communities.

• Facilitates travel expense claims, invoices, and payments in conjunction with the finance department.

• Facilitates bulk correspondence on behalf of the Mental Health Wellness and Mobile Crisis Response Team members.

• Preparation of materials for conferences, assemblies, meetings, and training events.

• Maintaining the filing system and current electronic forms for the Mental Health Wellness Teams and the Mobile Crisis Response Team.

• Ordering and maintaining supplies and promotional items for the Mental Wellness Program.

• Must maintain a strict adherence to MKO policies regarding the handling of sensitive and confidential information at all times.

• Assists other team members and carries out other duties as needed and assigned.

Education and Experience • Minimum 3 years of experience in an office/administrative environment.

• Post-secondary education in business administration or equivalent.

• Ability to set priorities, handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines.

• Demonstrates strong initiative with the ability to work independently while functioning as part of a team.

• Proficiency with MS Office, Internet, E-mail and other business-related computer software is required.

• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail and follow through.

• A sensitivity and understanding of culture, language and issues relevant to First Nation communities.

• Advanced organizational and time management skills including the ability to manage multiple priorities while working in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to build and maintain positive working relationships and work with a variety of people, groups, and organizations.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office software.

• Must posses a valid driver’s licence and be willing to travel.

• Must be able to obtain a satisfactory Criminal Record Check (including Vulnerable Sector Search), a satisfactory Child Abuse Registry Check and a satisfactory Adult Abuse Registry Check upon hiring.

Salary is dependent upon qualifications and experience.

Interested applicants are invited to submit their cover letter identifying the position applying for and resume, along with 3 professional reference listings (include a most recent employer reference) by 4:00 p.m. on July 19, 2024 to: Human Resources at employment@mkonorth.com We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Preference will be given to qualified First Nations applicants; applicants are encouraged to self-declare in their resume or cover letter. No phone calls will be accepted.

Incorporated in 1981 as the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO).

MKO is a non-profit, political advocacy organization that provides a collective voice on issues of inherent, Treaty, Indigenous, and human rights for citizens of the 26 sovereign First Nations we represent. The MKO First Nations are signatory to Treaties 4, 5, 6, and 10.

Please visit our website at mkonation.com

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Friday, July 12, 2024

Recreation means Art City, means inner city programming, 24-hour safe spaces, says councillor–Winnipeg city council puts off cuts

BY PATRICK HARNEY

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER, THE LEAF

On June 18th, Winnipeg’s Executive Policy Committee unanimously approved a shift to the community and neighbourhood grants program.

Among the changes is a $2 million cut to the grant program from $3.4 in 2024 to $1.3 million in 2025. Additionally, the changes will force community organizations to apply for grants on a program-to-pro- gram basis, meaning that grant money can no longer be used for operating budgets.

Five delegations made up of representatives from community organizations came to the executive policy committee meeting to express their concern over the long-term effects of these changes. The delegations focused on the impact that a loss of community spaces would have on crime in the city. Michele Wikkerink, executive director at Spence Neighbourhood association, says that investing in community organizations is a stronger alternative to reducing crime than increasing police spending. “[Police]

respond to crime, they do not prevent crime. What does prevent crime, at least for youth, is activity,” Wikkerink said.

“Activity is shown time and time again to reduce youth crime and gang participation.

It increases school participants, you can not find a study that says this is not true.”

Wikkerink mentioned how important community services are for getting youth employed and creating future taxpayers.

“Our youth job creation program trained and employed 320 youth over the last 5 years, an average of 64 youth per year,” Wikkerink said.

In addition to comments on crime, Kate Kehler, executive director at Social Planning Council of Winnipeg, highlighted the hypocrisy of framing the cut as fiscal responsibility as the city continues to miss revenue on frozen business taxes and spend on road expansions.

“Trickle Down economics do not work,” Kehler said.

“Poverty is the main driver of crime and poor health.

Here in the city of Winnipeg, where you are born can

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY - THOMPSON WELLNESS COORDINATOR Under the general direction of Keewatin Tribal Council (KTC) Director of Health, the Wellness Coordinator will assist member First Nations in developing their own Wellness Teams, supporting and participating in current Mental Wellness programming and capacity building, providing guidance and mentorship to community based workers. The Wellness Coordinator will provide assistance to all KTC member bands as requested by the KTC communities and will assist with developing of a cultural appropriate assessment and treatment approaches.

QUALIFICATIONS: • Post-Secondary education / training / experience in the Social Services work field with a demonstrated ability in counseling skills; experience with First Nations, community health planning, policy development and ability to build capacity within the communities; • Additional training or certification an asset i.e.: ASIST, Critical Incident Stress Management, Mental Health First Aid First Nations and/or Psychological First Aid. Effective interpersonal and critical thinking skills required. Ability to interact professionally with culturally diverse staff, clients, and consultants preferred; • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with maturity and poise to interact with executives at the highest levels of government, business, and academia; • Knowledge of government policies related to selfdetermination of First Nations people and how these policies have affected them; • Ability to work independently and take initiative; • Minimum of 2 years of experience in management and supervision; • Strong organizational skills with great attention to detail and the ability to set priorities; • Knowledge of Microsoft Office 2010 applications required; • The incumbent must possess effective communication and conflict-resolution skills; • Must be willing to travel on short notice to remote fly-in communities; • Ability to speak Cree or Dene would be a definite asset; • A valid Driver’s license required and access to a reliable vehicle; • Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Checks; • Child Abuse Registry Check.

• Active Member with the KTC Crisis Response Team.

A written application with detailed resume, including at least two (2) references with written permission to contact the references and your latest immediate supervisor should be submitted to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N OY4 Email: lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax: 204 677-0256 Closing Date: Friday, July 12, 2024 at 4:00pm Late applications will not be accepted We would like to thank those that apply for the position but only those being considered for an interview will be contacted. For further information or a full job description contact Lisa Beardy, KTC Office Manager.

mean as much as an 18 year difference in life expectancy.”

Stephen Wilson, Executive Director at Graffiti Art Programming recalled the effects that the covid-19 pandemic had on Winnipeg youth suggesting that the cuts could lead to similar impacts in the future.

“All support for young people shut down. Schools were closed, youth centres were closed, sports and recreation were closed,” Wilson said. “Since the pandemic closed and reduced many of our services, we’ve seen youth crime increase year by year by 47% and youth addiction increase by 24%.”

Councillor Janice Lukes justified the change in the grants program as a move towards greater equity, allowing more organizations to access funding than before.

“Did you know that the city of Winnipeg has never publicly advertised the opportunity to access this funding at all,” Councillor Lukes said. “This funding that is for grants has never been publicly offered to many groups throughout the city.”

Cuts might have saved the city a tiny amount of money in the short term, explained

Eddy Ayoub, artistic director at Art City, who said the organization has received city funding since 2003. “It's innovative, highly effective brand of barrierfree art programming has played a major role in transforming West Broadway.”

“Winnipeg receives a tremendous bang for its buck by supporting art city, and other community organizations,” he said. He also highlighted that although they receive funding from different sources, city funds were some of the few that can be used for operational costs, leaving only the United Way of Winnipeg as a future source of core funding for staff.

“The moment one of our citizens loses access to a program or service that they depend on, we will all pay in another way and believe me, it will not be cheaper,” Ron Brown, President and CEO of BGC Winnipeg (The Boys and Girls Club of Winnipeg), that operates 12 locations across the city, said. Studies undertaken on their programming showed “that children and youth that participate in our programs have better health outcomes and are much less likely to

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY THOMPSON, MB TRAUMA INFORMED CULTURAL SUPPORT WORKER TICSW Keewatin Tribal Council Health Department is currently seeking a Trauma Informed Cultural Support Worker to provide direct support services to Indian Residential Schools Survivors, (IRSS) IDSS, 0’s Scoop Survivors, MMIW Survivors, families, and those impacted inter-generationally by Residential Schools in Canada.

Roles and Responsibilities: • Liaise/network with the 11 Northern KTC affiliated communities and other stakeholders in raising awareness about the Indian Residential Schools, Truth and Reconciliation and Commemoration events; • Conduct information sessions, presentations and workshop on the History of Residential Schools, • Develop wellness plans with the clientele provide for these needs and refer as necessary to the appropriate resources as well as existing community services and supports; • Prepare monthly activity reports and participate in developing a yearly IRS workplan • Provide crisis response supports as requested by the 11 KTC communities • Facilitate trauma informed and grief recovery workshops • Provide land based hands on cultural and traditional healing/ activities Qualifications: • Trauma Informed or equivalent education and experience; sensitivity of each community’s cultural • Knowledge practices; • Knowledge of all Settlement Agreements which include Indian Residential Schools, Day Schools 0’s Scoop, MMIW • Knowledge of the IRS, IDS, 0’s Scoop, MMIW Survivors and intergenerational impacts; • Must have computer skills; Microsoft Office, Word, PP, Excel • Must have Excellent verbal and written communication skills • Ability to speak Cree or Dene would be an asset • Must have strong organizational skills, time management, ability to work independently, self-motivated and be a strong team player; • Be knowledgeable of the 11 Keewatin Tribal Council (KTC) geographical communities and be respectful of their customs and traditions • Possess valid driver’s licence, own or have access to vehicle; • Willingness and ability to travel extensively; • Willingness and ability to work after hours and/or weekends when required.

Position will be sub ect to a Child Abuse Registry Check Criminal record Check Closing Date: Friday, July 12, 2024 at 4:00PM Please Forward Resumes to the Attention of: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N OY4 Email: Lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax: 204 677-0256 We thank all applicants, howe er, only those candidates selected for an inter iew will be contacted.

be involved in the justice system.”

Councillor Cindy Gilroy said that the justification she has heard for the cut is to prevent ‘scope creep’ and move some of the responsibility for community funding to the province. However, she argues that these services should be a city responsibility and especially in the inner city where they are a vital resource.

“Our job is recreation and recreation means Art City, recreation means inner city programming,” Coun. Gilroy says. “If recreation in the middle of Spence means a 24-hour safe space, that’s the recreation they need in that area at the time. You’re meeting people where they’re at.” “[The cuts] would be detrimental to the city in terms of everything that we’re trying to accomplish, in terms of homelessness, addiction, and mental health,” Coun. Gilroy says. “The other suburban areas don’t have the issues that we have.” Council was set to cast their final vote on the grant changes on June 27.

However, shortly before the meeting, community organizations arranged an impromptu rally outside of city hall to protest the decision.

The rally showcased the work of community organizations first hand, with music, a group of youth breakdancers, a patchwork dragon and signs adorned with slogans including ‘These cuts are nuts’ and ‘de- fend not defund’.

The tone of the rally was as much a condemnation of the cuts as it was a celebration

of community and artistic expression.

During the rally Leah Gazan, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg Centre, spoke imploring City Council to not “play politics with our kids.”

Midway through the rally, Ayoud took the microphone to announce that Mayor Gillingham heard the community’s voices and would vote to send the grants shift back to the EPC for further discussion.

“It feels fantastic that Winnipegger expressed themselves and actually got the Mayor and City Council to reconsider this proposal,” Ayoub said after the decision.

“Winnipeggers gave them something to think about, with all their personal messages and perspectives.”

Crowd responses were joyous, as individuals embraced and shouted in celebration.

One of Art City’s founders, Wanda Koop, even began to chant “double the money.”

During the council meeting, Wikkerink expressed that she felt like she “won the lottery.”

The crowd chanted "double the money" to city councils' plan to cut half the inner city's budget for recreation for youth “[Council] are very receptive, They’re our partner here. There’s no adversarial relationship and it’s a very valuable relationship,” Ayoud said. “We’re gonna come back to this thing and hopefully with more open communication and consultation.”

The next EPC meeting will be held July 8.

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL TRAININ AND EMPLOYMENT PRO RAM ASSISTANT FULL TIME POSITION Under the supervision of the Director of Education Training, the Training Employment Program Assistant will be required to maintain accurate financial records and provide support to the Training Employment Coordinator and Employment Training Workers in KTC Communities. Provide regular financial reports to the KTC First Nations and Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak ISET Program on the Employment Training budgets for KTC. (Includes Consolidated Revenue Fund Employment Insurance Programs).

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED: • Formal training in the area of Business Administration.

• Experience in maintaining financial records, individual files, and financial reports (monthly, quarterly and annual).

• Knowledge of the various programs and guidelines under the Indigenous Skills Employment Training Program (ISET).

• Knowledge of the eligibility and reporting requirements of the ISET. • Ability to work independently.

• Must have experience in working with Excel Programs, ARMS/ PRIME Database and be computer literate.

• Must be able to travel to remote northern communities to work with Training Employment Workers.

• Valid driver’s license for the Province of Manitoba is an asset.

• Ability to speak either Cree or Dene is an asset.

Salary is dependent upon qualifications and experience. A comprehensive benefits package is provided. A complete job description can be obtained by calling (20 ) -2 1 or Aggie Weenusk, Director of Education Training at (20 ) -0 .

Interested candidates are invited to submit in confidence a resume with references and a letter of application to: Lisa Beardy, Office Manager 23 Nickel Road Thompson, Manitoba R8N OY4 Email: lbeardy@ktc.ca Fax: 204 677-0257 POSTIN DEADLINE: UNTIL POSITION IS FILLED We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in employment with Keewatin Tribal Council, however; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Friday ,July 12, 2024

www.thompsoncitizen.net

• Page A15

Congratulations to the Class of 2024 Bravo, graduates! The Thompson Citizen applauds your efforts and achievements. Here’s to a bright and prosperous future!

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Insurance Services Ltd.

hompson Insurance Services 12 - 50 Selkirk Avenue P: 204-677-4574 F: 204-778-6622 info@thompsoninsurance.ca

“The Insurance Store”

11 City Centre Mall P: 204-677-9991 F: 204-778-5145 info@kbinsurance.ca

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N.C. Crossroad Lanes 10 Pin & 5 Pin Bowling • Glow Bowling Sports Bar • Strikers Lounge Homemade Pizza • VLTs • Video Games Computerized Scoring • Birthday Parties Twoonie Tuesdays • Closed Sundays + Holidays 2nd Floor North Centre Mall - 677-4415 Nick Di Virgilio, Proprietor

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Page A16 •

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Friday, July 12, 2024

Niverville’s high achievers take home prestigious awards

Project Manager Regular/Full-Time Consumer Protection and Government Services, The Pas, MB Advertisement Number: 42688 Closing Date: July 28, 2024 Salary Range: P8 $82,385.00 – $103,322.00 per year, plus remoteness allowance (if applicable) The Manitoba government recognizes the importance of building an exemplary public service reflective of the citizens it serves, where diverse abilities, backgrounds, cultures, identities, languages and perspectives drives a high standard of service and innovation. The Manitoba government supports equitable employment practices and promotes representation of designated groups (women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, visible minorities).

Employment Equity is a factor in selection for this competition. Consideration will be given to women, Indigenous people and persons with disabilities.

Photo by Brenda Sawatzky, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Sandy Wallace presenting the Manitoba Credit Unions Award to Jack Grantham. went to Landon Nickel. work. They included Kate

BY BRENDA SAWATZKY LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REEmma Ginter, Reese Neufeld and Kade Peters.

PORTER, THE NIVERVILLE CITIZEN Rosetti, Dani Santos, Josh Two more recipients, Twenty-six awards were Smeltz, and Owen Unrau Emma Ginter and Reagan presented to a cross-sec- were recipients of $1,000 Friesen, were granted the tion of 21 graduates at awards. These included the Springfield-Ritchot MLA’s Niverville’s June 26 grad HTA award, the Chown Citizenship Award for $500 convocation.

Centennial Scholarship each.

Among the most presti- from the University of The $500 Future in gious, the Governor Gen- Manitoba, the Lana Dyck Trades Award went to Trineral’s bronze medal, was JOY award, the Andrew ity Funk while Piper Trippigiven to class valedictorian Grant Memorial Schol- er received the Ivy Friesen Jack Grantham. Grantham arship, and the David Memorial Award for $500. also took home the Mani- Alan Grant Memorial Two Niverville Physiotoba Credit Unions Award Scholarship. therapy Athletic Awards of for $2,000.

The Niverville Firefight- $500 were presented to Nate The Kevin James Reid ers Award of $500 was pre- Leslie and Ginger Fast. award for $1,500 was pre- sented to Sylvie Maynard The Niverville Guardsented to Jace Woytowich for her future plans to enter ian Pharmacy Chemistry for his interest in training a field related to firefight- Award was granted to three as a heavy-duty equipment ing, ambulance, or policing. students: Jack Grantham, operator.

Niverville Family Chiro- Logan Wolfe, and Josh The Town of Niverville practic and One Insurance Smeltz. Each of them reand Niverville Credit Union also provided $500 awards ceived $250. each sponsored a $1,000 which went to Logan Wolfe Finally, two PAC Awards award this year. Recipients and Ella Hunt. of $200, provided by the included Llexci Wiebe and Two MCC Thrift Store NHS parent advisory counEmma Ginter.

Awards of $500 were given cil, went to recipients Julia Also for $1,000, the Wie- to students who demonstrat- Kresniak and Kalie-Lynn ns Young Leader award ed an interest in volunteer Kyle.

An eligibility list may be created for similar positions and will remain in effect for 12 months.

Candidates who do not meet all essential criteria may be considered on an underfill basis at a commensurate rate of pay.

This position will remain open until filled.

Introduction The Asset Management Branch with the Department of Consumer Protection and Government Services is seeking a highly motivated Project Manager to work in The Pas, Manitoba. The Asset Management Branch is responsible for operating and maintaining safe, quality and sustainable working environments and to ensure the efficient operation and good stewardship of government buildings and assets.

Located 625 km north of Winnipeg, The Pas, Opaskwayak Cree Nation and the Rural Municipality of Kelsey are three diverse and interconnected communities within 25 km of Clearwater Lake Provincial Park. All of which are signature destinations for outdoor adventure, rich culture, museums, and festivals. There are numerous nearby lakes and rivers with world class fishing and nearly 400 km of groomed snowmobile trails. Learn more about living and working in The Pas/OCN at www.discoverthepasocn.ca.

The Manitoba government is recognized as one of the top employers within the province and provides a comprehensive compensation and benefits package for its employees which includes extended health care, health spending account, dental care, vision care, long term disability insurance, group life insurance, maternity/paternity and parental leave, family related leave and a defined pension plan. The Manitoba government is also committed to supporting the development of its employees through training and career development opportunities.

Conditions of Employment: • Must be legally entitled to work in Canada • Must provide and maintain a satisfactory Criminal Record Check and Security Check • Must have a valid Class 5 Driver’s license •

Must be able to travel throughout the province with overnight stays for extended periods as required

Qualifications: • Post-secondary degree or diploma in a field relating to construction project management including architecture, engineering, or an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

• Project management experience delivering projects from inception to completion • Experience planning and administering significant budgets

Public Notice

You’re Invited to share your views about the rate application filed by Manitoba Public Insurance The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation (MPI) has filed the 2025 General Rate Application before the Public Utilities Board (Board) for approval of Basic Autopac vehicle insurance rates and premiums effective on April 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026.

For further details, please contact MPI at inquiries@mpi.mb.ca or visit the Board’s website at www.pubmanitoba.ca.

A public hearing on the proposed rate application will be held beginning: Monday, October 21, 2024 at 9 a.m.

Please view the hearing via the PUB website link.

If you are interested in learning more about this rate application, you are encouraged to attend the hearing, observe the hearing via live streaming, or provide your perspectives through the Board’s online comment tool.

If you wish to speak at the hearing or make a written submission, please contact the Board Secretary, Dr. Darren Christle at 204-945-2638 or toll free 1-866-854-3698, no later than October 8, 2024.

For more information, visit www.pubmanitoba.ca.

Manitoba Public Utilities Board 400-330 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 0C4 Phone: 204-945-2638 Email: publicutilities@gov.mb.ca

For the full listing of qualifications, please visit http://www.manitoba.ca/govjobs/.

Duties: The Project Manager is responsible for the concurrent management of numerous projects for client departments, special operating agencies and other agencies of government from inception through to satisfaction of the need. The Project Manager is a highly complex managerial work with overall responsibility requiring broad encompassing decisions, extensive planning, co-operation with inside resources and professional disciplines, and other related services. This position is responsible for overseeing and monitoring outside consultants and contractors. The Project Manager is required to work closely at the most senior level with industry and government departments, boards, agencies, etc.

Apply to: Advertisement No. 42688 Talent Acquisition - Executive Recruitment Human Resource Services 608-330 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, MB, R3C 0C4 Phone: 204-945-6892 Fax: 204-945-0601 Email: PSCExecutivejobs@gov.mb.ca Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process.

When applying to this position, please indicate the advertisement number and position title in the subject line and/or body of your email. Your cover letter, resumé and/or application must clearly indicate how you meet the qualifications.

Please be advised that job competitions may be grieved and appealed. Should a selection grievance be filed, information from the competition file will be provided to the grievor’s representative or the grievor, if unrepresented. Personal information irrelevant to the grievance and other information protected under legislation will be redacted.

We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Find out about other current job opportunities — click on the Jobs button at manitoba.ca.

People. Purpose. Progress. manitoba.ca/govjobs

Any personal information provided including employment equity declarations will be used for employment and/or statistical purposes and is protected by The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Alternate formats available upon request