Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!
March 2024
Para Alpine Program Launched to Steinbach Annual Job Break Down Accessibility Barriers Fair Coming Up Soon By Dan Guetre
The Manitoba Alpine Ski Division (MASD) is embarking on a new initiative, the Manitoba Alpine Ski Division - Para Alpine (MASD), aims to make adaptive skiing more accessible to Manitobans with disabilities. This program seeks to eliminate financial barriers and create recreational opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities. Chris Maxemuck, an initiative representative for MASD, is dedicated to bringing the joy of adaptive skiing to Manitobans with disabilities. He emphasized the family-friendly nature of adaptive skiing, making it an inclusive activity suitable for people of all ages. “Adaptive skiing is quite a bit different from hockey; it is a family activity for people of all ages and abilities,” explained Maxemuck. “The space used in skiing is always outside and gives individuals the opportunity to enjoy a Manitoba winter while zipping down a ski hill under control.” The call to action is for individuals with disabilities in Manitoba to experience adaptive skiing, recognizing the effort required to raise awareness. The MASD aims to develop para alpine athletes, emphasizing the need to build up adaptive ski programs in Manitoba for long-term competitiveness at provincial and national alpine racing events. “As a resident of Lorette, Manitoba, I would love to see residents of southeastern Manitoba with disabilities get the opportunity to try adaptive skiing,” Maxemuck added. Maxemuck was the founder of the Lorette 36-Hour Hockey and has also been an advocate for the sport of sledge hockey.
Kyle Calder, who played in and helped organize the sledge hockey game for the 36-Hour Hockey 21st Anniversary Event in Lorette with Chris Maxemuck. “With support from Holiday Mountain, I taught Kyle how to ski various terrain at the ski hill and move around on the ski independently,” said Maxemuck. Submitted photo
To encourage participation, Manitoba Alpine has secured funding to cover the cost of lift tickets, lessons, and rentals (if equipment is not available in the MASD equipment pool). This offer is valid until March 30, 2024, providing an incredibly generous opportunity given the usual costs associated with Alpine skiing. For instance, a three-hour adaptive ski lesson typically exceeds $250 plus taxes.
The ski hill, Holiday Mountain, is actively monitoring snow conditions, with most runs having an excess of three feet of snow. Predicting the ski hill to remain open until the end of March, MASD invites Manitobans with disabilities to take advantage of this unique opportunity to experience the thrill of adaptive skiing in the picturesque winter landscape.
Residents seeking employment opportunities within the local community are invited to mark their calendars for the upcoming 2024 Job Fair, organized by Eastman Immigrant Services in collaboration with the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce. The event aims to connect job seekers with over 20 local employers, providing a platform for networking, inquiries, and job applications. The Job Fair will be held on Thursday, March 21 from 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre, 10 Chrysler Gate in Steinbach. The Job Fair promises an opportunity for attendees to engage with representatives from a diverse range of local businesses in Southeast Manitoba. Job seekers can explore career prospects, seek information, and make valuable connections with potential employers. Over 20 local employers are confirmed to participate, representing various industries. Attendees are encouraged to bring their resumes, as many employers will be actively accepting job applications during the event. Some of the featured employers include Accurate HD, Big Freight Systems Inc., Clearview Co-op, enVision Community Living, HavenGroup, HyLife Initiative for Just Communities, Luxe Cleaning Co., Maple Leaf Agri-Farms, PBX Truck Service, Penn-co Construction, Penner International, Premier Tech, Racka Roofing, RCMP, Southern Health-Santé Sud, Steve’s Livestock Transport, TD Canada Trust and Tim Hortons. The event is open to everyone, and there is no pre-registration required. Job seekers are encouraged to attend, connect with potential employers, and explore the diverse array of career opportunities available in the local community. For further information, individuals may contact Eastman Immigrant Services or the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce. The organizers look forward to welcoming job seekers and employers alike to this collaborative and dynamic networking event.