Municipal Elections Approaching October 22 to set pace for next four years
Lorette Moms Race to Raise Money for Cancer
By Marianne Curtis Candidates vying for votes have started knocking on doors to look for support in the upcoming municipal elections. Voters head to the polls on October 22 to choose representation for the next four years at the municipal level and school trustees. The campaign just kicked off, but a variety of interesting developments have already surfaced. City of Steinbach mayor Chris Goertzen has once again been acclaimed. This is the second time he has remained in this position without any competition and once the term is done, he will officially be the longest sitting mayor for the city. “These last few years have gone by very quickly and we have accomplished so much as a council,” stated Goertzen. “I look forward to the new council that I’ll be working with and the many things we can accomplish in the next four years. It’s very humbling. RM of Ritchot Mayor Bob Stefaniuk is not returning to the table, and Councillor Jackie Hunt is competing with Doug Touchette for the vacancy. Councillors Ernie Dumaine and Jeannot Robert are both in by acclamation. “I have a tremendous amount of respect for Bob; these are big shoes to fill, but I am ready for the challenge,” states Hunt. “I’m not afraid of challenges and I believe that I have a proven track record of serving this municipality well.” Rumour has it that ratepayers in the RM of Tache are looking for change, and could deliberately vote
This group of mothers from Lorette formed the first community based team to participate in this year’s Dragon Boat festival.
By Marianne Curtis
for a mayor who lives outside of Lorette. Councillor Ross Dechambault is competing for the mayor’s seat against Robert Rivard. “I believe there is a lot of work to do to bring this municipality together and we must all work together to make Tache better as a whole,” stated Rivard. “People are telling me that they are tired of hearing all the talk about the needs of their communities but nothing being done.” Councillors Bill Heather and Jacques Trudeau are both returning uncontested. RM of La Broquerie is looking at a three way race for reeve with Councillor Cornie Goertzen battling it out with former administrator Larry Tetrault and last minute entry Lewis Weiss. “I’ve an invested interest to keep taxes down because I do pay a lot of tax and I’m sure the others do as well,” says Weiss. “We have good property and areas in this municipality that more businesses can start and I’m all for that.” All three LUD of La Broquerie candidates Rhéal Gagnon, Yves Lafrenière and Gäétan
Bisson were acclaimed. RM of Hanover Reeve Stan Toews is being challenged by current councillor Clif Bakx, while councillors Peter Hiebert, Bernie Stahn, Bob Brandt and Dylan Barkman have already secured their seats by acclamation. “Unlike the race in Winnipeg, I have the utmost respect for the current reeve; he’s done a fine job, there are no two ways about it,” Bakx admits. “This municipality needs some refreshing and needs to become more proactive, than reactive.” Hanover elections are only taking place for Ward 5 and 6. The LUDS of Blumenort, Grunthal, and Mitchell were also acclaimed. During the last election, the entire Town of St. Anne council was acclaimed. This year, Mayor Bernie Vermette is facing Richard Pelletier and thirteen candidates are vying for four positions on council.
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A group of twenty-one women from Lorette raised over $4,500 and competed in an amazing weekend of racing when they participated in this year’s Manitoba Dragon Boat Festival. On the weekend of September 12 to 14, the team of women competed against sixteen other women’s teams as part of the FMG Dragon Boat Festival in support of Cancer Care Manitoba Foundation and the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba.
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RHA General Meeting in October Anyone wishing to learn more about health care in the region is invited to attend the upcoming annual general meeting of the Southern Health Board of Directors. This year’s annual general meeting is taking place October 9 at the Niverville Heritage Centre, starting at 7 pm. The topic of the night will be Moving Forward Together with guest speaker Dr. Michael Rachlis. Rachlis is a health policy analyst and author of three national best selling books about Canada’s health care system. He is expected to speak about current reforms and sustainability in the health care system. There will also be a number of displays highlighting the various health care related services available throughout the region.
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
Dragon Boat continued... Continued from page 1 Colleen Lambert, a young mother from Lorette, put together this year’s team. “Most of our team was comprised of Lorette moms who already have a busy life, but dedicated their efforts to do something important for those children who really need our help,” said Lambert. “With only two water practices prior to the event, we came in tenth out of seventeen All Female Teams.” Over the weekend, the Lorette Dragonettes finished three races with an average time of 2:03:75. Lambert said that she is already making plans for 2015. “We have already signed up for next year and can’t wait to exceed our fundraising efforts from this year’s event,” Lambert added. “We have 1 full team, but if there are other ladies in Lorette that are willing to dedicate some time to fundraising, attending the practices and being there for race weekend next year, we’d certainly support a second team.” Several fundraising events to support next year’s race are already in the works. This year’s team was sponsored by the Lorette Marketplace, Lorette Pharmacie Dufresne, Lorette Physiotherapy, Mitch’s Hardware, Opus Day Spa, Prairie Fairy Studios, RM of Tache and West Textiles.
The Lorette Dragonettes dig in deep as they paddle their way to the finish line.
Fog a Factor in Train and Semi Collision On September 6, just after 8 am, St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP responded to a collision between a semi and a train on Highway 305, between Niverville and Ste. Agathe. Preliminary investigation indicates that there was significant fog in the area and visibility was reduced. Alcohol is not considered a factor in the collision. The 25-year-old driver of the semi, from the RM of Ritchot, was transported to hospital with serious injuries. The CP train was not derailed and no hazardous material was involved. The RCMP Forensic Collision Reconstructionist is assisting with the ongoing investigation.
Vote continued...
Continued from page 1 “The town needs some change, and I think it would be good to do a term and bring up a lot of the changes,” stated Pelletier. “There is a need for more business, and supporting the businesses. I have a passion for people, I love the Town of Ste Anne and I want to be part of it.” In the RM of Ste. Anne, three councillors have already been elected with councillors Renald Courcelles, Jake A. Reimer and Laurie Evans all acclaimed. Reeve Art Bergmann has been challenged by Rolland Sarrasin. “I’ve noticed some places have been neglected and in some places the drainage needs to be improved,” Sarrasin says. “Infrastructure is a big issue in this municipality.” In the RM of Stuartburn elections, Jim Swidersky is making a bid for reeve and he has some competition with Lawrence Sesiuk. “I am more than ready to serve another term on council,” stated Swidersky. “We’ve gotten a lot of things done and there is still more to do.” RM of De Salaberry councillor Marc Marion has put his name in for reeve, and former councillor MarieT. Lefevre is competing against him. Hans Gorter and Cyril Inman are challenging incumbent Andre Carbonneau in Otterburne. Jason Czarnecki and Ron Martel are challenging incumbent Patrick Catellier in Dufrost. Darrel Cure and Gabriel Gosselin are both acclaimed in St. Malo. In the RM of Piney, all current councillors have been challenged, including reeve Duane Boutang who has been challenged by Wayne Anderson. All seven councillors and the reeve in the RM of Reynolds want to return for another four years. However, David Turchyn has been challenged by former reeve Walter Panych and councillors Garry Gaetze and Mike Turchyn have not been contested and have been elected by acclamation.
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CEO Sleepout Supports Steinbach’s Homeless By Marianne Curtis On September 18, about 60 executives and politicians from the region took part in the second annual CEO Sleepout. For one night, the group camped out at K.R. Barkman Park in Steinbach to raise funds and awareness of the growing homeless problem in the community. Several organizations partnered to organize the event that challenged CEOs, community leaders and key decision makers to raise awareness about homelessness, poverty and affordable housing in Steinbach while helping to raise funds for Today House. Today House is a not-for-profit, integrated community-based program that provides immediate, overnight emergency temporary shelter for individuals who are homeless or street involved. Simone Penner, with Today House says this year’s group of participants raised over $37,000 for the facility. “It is always very humbling when so many people gather to learn and concern themselves about those who have less,” stated Penner. “The disquiet of sleeping in the park for one night hardly compares to the hardships of those experiencing homelessness, but it offers a tangible opportunity to help.” Fundraising was not the only purpose for this event. Participants were shuttled to a local grocery store where groups were asked to purchase seven days of groceries for $27.72. The amount equivalent to what a single person on social assistance would have left for groceries per week once they’ve paid rent and utilities. “The purpose of this exercise was to show how difficult it is to eat healthy and live on what social assistance provides,” explained Penner. After shopping, the group gathered at Soup’s On, which opens twice a week to provide a hot bowl of soup, coffee and fellowship to the homeless in the community. When the campers returned to the park, they listened as shelter volunteer Richard Harder, Siloam volunteer Lindsay Smith and Al Wiebe shared their experiences. Wiebe shared his amazing journey from high paid executive to homelessness and his road to recovery. Funds raised from the CEO Sleepout will support Today House’s mission to provide emergency, overnight shelter in a safe environment for those in greatest need in the Steinbach area and 100% of the donations raised by this event went to Today House. Today’s House offers shelter to those in need from Monday to Friday to a maximum of four people by referral only. Partners in the event included Helping Hands Food bank, Soup’s On, the local soup kitchen, Agape House, Today’s House and several other community outreach programs.
Lorette Festival Delivers Family Fun
There were tons of activities for all ages at this year’s Lorette Family Fun Days at the beginning of September.
By Marianne Curtis For three days on the first weekend of September, the community of Lorette was bustling with activity when this year’s Family Fun Days took place. Organized by the Lorette Family Fun Group, the three-day event was a fundraiser for other community-based activities. “The success of this is the partnership we have with people in the community. Without your attendance and support, we couldn’t have made this happen,” stated a spokesperson for the Lorette Family Fun Group. “It is our absolute pleasure to provide opportunities to bring this community together. All the while, all of the funds we raise is going right back into this amazing community!” The weekend’s activities included bouncers, a parade, a midway, Games 2 U, petting zoo, face painter, magician, balloon artist, movie on the hill, barrel rides, live a band in the outdoor beer gardens, Battle of the Bands, kids’ crafts and games, ball tournament, fireworks and craft sale with almost 40 tables.
A sea of cardboard boxes awaits the many business people, politicians and others who participated in this year’s CEO Sleepout to raise funds and awareness for Today’s House in Steinbach. Prior to returning to the park, participants gathered at Soup’s On for a bowl of soup and discussed the services available to people in the community. Photos by Marianne Curtis
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
Free Trade Agreement Between Canada and Korea
Government’s Colossal Bafflegab
Last week, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Korean President Park Geun-hye celebrated the signature of the Free Trade Agreement between Canada and Korea and launched a new Strategic Partnership. Our Government is focused on creating jobs and opportunities for Canadians in every region of the country. In these uncertain times, our prosperity depends on our ability to take advantage of economic opportunities in emerging markets. We have therefore launched the most ambitious trade expansion plan in Canadian history. In less than seven years, Canada has concluded free trade agreements with 38 countries and is negotiating with many more. The most recent Speech from the Throne committed to expanding trade in the Asia-Pacific region to benefit hardworking Canadians and businesses, especially our crucial small and medium sized enterprises (SME) and industries across the country. We are delivering on that commitment with this agreement. The Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement is an historic initiative that will strengthen our trade and investment ties across the Pacific, increase the prosperity of both countries; and result in job creation and enhanced opportunities for Canadian and Korean businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises, as well as investors, workers and consumers. This free trade agreement is an ambitious, state-of-the-art agreement, covering virtually all sectors and aspects of Canada-Korean trade, including trade in goods and services, investment, government procurement and intellectual property, as well as labour and environment cooperation. Our Government has remained focused on pursuing an ambitious and balanced trade agenda that will help Canada’s economic recovery and ensure long-term prosperity. In October, our Government reached a free trade agreement with the European Union, a historic accomplishment for Canada’s trade relations. It will boost Canada’s economy by $12 billion annually—the equivalent of 80,000 jobs—and Canadian businesses will have preferential market access to the EU’s half a billion consumers. In addition to increased jobs and economic activity, expanding Canada’s free trade agreements also provides hard-working families more choice at a lower cost for everyday household goods. Canada is now positioned to be a strong and credible voice on key issues in our global community. Our prominence and global influence on the world stage continues to grow under the leadership of Prime Minister Stephen Harper. I am always interested in hearing from you on important issues. You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204-326-9889. You may also write my office at 8-227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, e-mail me at ted.falk.c1@parl.gc.ca or visit my website at tedfalk.ca.
Meanwhile in Manitoba… Manitoba Hydro as it turns out cannot count. The Manitoba Government as it turns out cannot count either. Throughout the 2011 election year, the government was floating the cost of Bipole 111 at 3.1 billion. Rumours and leaks insisted the price was 4.6 billion. Lo and behold, the cat is out of the bag and 4.6 billion it is. The price on the new Wuskwatim cost 1.4 billion about twice the original estimate. This means we are all on the hook for an awful lot of ‘cost overruns’. As it, turns out the Premier and hydro are still dreaming. We need somebody to discuss this in an honest and adult fashion and in the very near future. The cost of all the different energy sources and transmission lines is quickly morphing into an expensive bad joke. This billion-dollar shell game has been going on since before the last election and this charade was successfully camouflaged by a lousy PST increase. Doesn’t this just make you feel like running out and giving Premier Selinger a wee hug? Well that’s not my first choice either. Apparently, it is bad manners to accuse the prevaricating politician and their emasculated parties at Manitoba Hydro of lying. On the other hand, a brand new rule, if it exceeds one billion dollars it called a bald-faced lie! In Ottawa… Canada is involved in an international action against the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham better known as ISIS, which is a vicious, and murderous cancer sweeping through Iraq and Syria. As far as we now know, our one-month commitment to that area doesn’t extend much into October and this uncivilized horde plans to stay around a while longer. So, the Leader of the opposition rightly asked the question in the house about this deployment. PM Harper’s Parliamentary Secretary Paul Calandra answered more than once with some pointless gibberish about the government stance on them being the best possible Government to stand by Israel. I thought for a second that this nobody had taken one too many lessons from Minister Baird’s diplomacy. The shout loudly and consistently and carry a large twig type. I swear this buffoon has a higher testosterone level than his IQ level. Back to this Parliamentary Secretary, it surprised me that he didn’t show one iota of embarrassment, that bulb seemed burned out, all ten watts of it. How do we convey to the PM that many of us would like to be informed in this very serious subject for all of us Canadians? Leaking out foreign policy in an American interview following the fiasco in Parliament is insulting. Fast forward, a couple of days and the low wattage Calandra apologizes for this fiasco taking full responsibility and said he was freelancing. He joins a long line of lying dimwits who have fallen on their swords to save the PM.
Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.
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Dawson Trail is Focused on Jobs Lorette On September 23, we announced that we are committing to work with local municipalities to improve and maintain roads that promote safe, reliable travel routes. Twenty-four communities have identified 61 projects that will help them benefit from the economic growth and good jobs that come with these initiatives. The Manitoba Government’s $3 million investment for eastern municipal roads is expected to create 50 new jobs and provide business to a number of local contractors, including Centennial Gravel. Funding is being provided to replace or repair more than 96 km of municipal roads in the eastern area. The RM of Tache is receiving $243,000 for four road projects. Councillors, elected official of the LUD of Lorette, office staff as well as public works employees from the RM of Tache were present for the announcement at the corner of Dawson Road and Rheault Avenue. For a list of road renewal projects can be found at gov.mb.ca/ asset_library/en/MRIP_listing se.pdf. While in Lorette, the Premier and I also visited Les Chouettes de Lorette Childcare Centre to check out their new natural playground and to discuss the needs of growth for this facility. Ile-des-Chênes While on the tour, the Premier and I were welcomed in Ile-des-Chênes by Ruth and Dean Leclaire at Wrangler’s Restaurant for lunch and had the chance to chat with Mr. Friesen and members of his team about the growth in the Southeast and the booming business of construction. It is with great pride that I congratulate Armand and Marjorie Beauchemin on receiving a Century Farm distinction on September 20. The Province of Manitoba, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Development recognizes Farm Families who have held a farm in continuous family ownership for 100 years. The Beauchemin family can now display the gate sign honouring their achievement. Ste. Anne I would like to thank the 40 parents, teachers, and local business owners that joined me, the Premier and our Education and Advanced Learning Minister James Allum on September 23 at the Ste Anne Elementary School gym for a town meeting on jobs and skills opportunities right here in the Southern region. A big focus of the evening was on apprenticeships, both for employers looking to hire and for young people interested in the trades. Brenden Johnson from Chabot Implements, sat on our panel of experts and spoke on the challenges and successes his business experienced with hiring, supporting and retaining apprentices. Cordella Friesen, the Executive Director of Apprenticeship Manitoba, informed local employers of our new provincial tax credit program as well as the resources available for small businesses that take on apprentices. We also had a great discussion with Nancy Wheatley, the Red River College Construction and Engineering Technologies Dean, on the benefits of providing up to date education and training closer to home. This helps keep families in their own communities and creates new employment and business opportunities to boost our local economies, benefiting us all. As always, I appreciate hearing your comments and thoughts on these and other provincial initiatives. I encourage you to contact me, e-mail ron.lemieux@yourmanitoba.ca, phone 204-878-4644, or mail at Box 517, Lorette, MB R0A 0Y0 and together we can continue to move Dawson Trail and Manitoba forward.
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
NDP and Hydro’s Billion Dollar Lie A few weeks ago, Manitoba Hydro announced a cost increase of more than 1.3 billion dollars for the Bipole III transmission line project. The new estimated cost of the project increased from $3.3 billion in 2011 to 4.6 billion. The original estimated price of the project in 2007 was $2.2 billion, meaning that Bipole III’s overall cost has increased nearly 210 percent. With approximately 3 years to go until the project’s completion, it is unknown how much the estimated costs will change. The most concerning implication of Bipole III’s cost increase is that Manitobans will have to pay for it in the form of increased hydro rates. What will this mean for your family, what will you have to cut back on? With the cost going up by an additional 1.3 billion dollars, will the NDP government be cutting other budgets to find the money? Will they be taking money from Health Care, Education or Road repair? All Manitobans and future generations will be paying for the NDP’s mismanagement of Hydro. In addition to poor project planning by the NDP, a feeling of disappointment in their ethics is reasonable, as it was the NDP who tried telling Manitoba that it wouldn’t cost much more to build on the west side than the east, we know this is to be a billion dollar lie Hydro ratepayers have to swallow. All Manitobans deserve access to reasonably priced hydro. With the way Hydro rates are being increased, how long will it be until consumers no longer have any so-called Hydro advantage? This NDP Government has not eliminated the deficit, rather it has doubled the province’s debt and decreased the province’s credit rating, all while promising to do the exact opposite. Manitobans do not need a government that fails to act accordingly to its commitments. It’s time to change. I look forward to hearing from you with any questions or concerns and I can be reached at my constituency office at 204-424-5406, my legislative office at 204-945-4339 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca.
Do You Remember? Do you remember what the NDP said about the BiPole III hydro transmission line during the 2011 election campaign? Residents of Dawson Trial were assured by their NDP candidate, as were all Manitobans that they wouldn’t actually have to pay for the line. The controversial hydro line, which the NDP are forcing Manitoba Hydro to build on the longest route imaginable around the province and through the southeast, would be paid for by customers outside of Manitoba the NDP promised. Well that was then, when they were looking for your vote. But, just last month Hydro came forward with the news that the expected cost of the BiPole III line is now $4.6 BILLION. That is double what the NDP said it was going to cost and it is nearly five times the cost of the original estimate to build the line had the shortest route been selected. So who is going to have to pay for the billions of dollars of extra cost? Manitoba Hydro’s president confirmed at a Legislative committee late in September that, of course, Manitobans would be picking up this cost just as they pay for other Hydro projects. As a result of the skyrocketing costs, they would have to ask for an additional increase in your hydro rates. That increase will be on top of the annual increases that have already been approved for the next decade that will see your hydro bills continually rise. We now know that the NDP were not honest during the last election when they said the BiPole III line wouldn’t be paid for by Manitobans. Now it appears that the Auditor General of Manitoba will be called in to investigate whether the NDP hid the actual cost of the BiPole line from Manitobans. Combined with the promise by the NDP last election not to raise taxes and the specific promise not to raise the PST, it’s turning out that there isn’t much you can believe when an NDP candidate comes to your door looking for your vote. And it’s all adding up to a massive boondoggle that will see Manitobans pay more for generations and will see a hydro transmission line built on the wrong side of the province. So the question now isn’t do you remember. The question is will you remember these broken promises that are costing you and your family the next time an NDP candidate comes looking for your vote? Because if we forget, we can expect more of the same and we can’t afford more of the same. I appreciate your comments and concerns. If you have any comments on these or other issues, you can contact me by writing, #3 – 227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, by phone at 204-326-5763, by fax at 204-346-9913, by e-mail at kelvin.goertzen@leg.gov.mb.ca or by visiting my website at kelvingoertzen.com. I look forward to hearing from you.
Splash Park Opens On September 2, the City of Steinbach officially opened a brand new splash park in downtown Steinbach. The new splash pad is located next to Jake Epp Library in Steinbach, in E.A. Friesen Park. Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen was thrilled to declare the park officially open. “Council is pleased that the E.A. Friesen Splash Park is now available in the downtown core as both a free and fun recreation opportunity for families in Steinbach,” said Goertzen. “We look forward to enjoying the new facility for many years to come.” The splash park was built by Questic Contracting and features several different sprays that run through four different cycles on a four-minute timer. The park was designed and built by the same
Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen checks out the new splash pad at E.A. Friesen Park.
contractors who installed the park at the Aquatic Centre. Goertzen noted that the council chose to go with the same contractor for maintenance reasons. While the two
parks will be similar, the new splash park will be larger and contain more sprays. The City of Steinbach stated the project cost about $300,000.
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Municipal Leaders Asked to Rein in Operational Spending With Manitoba’s municipal elections on the horizon, small business owners across the province are taking stock of their local government. Many are tiring of the seemingly annual tradition of property tax increases while infrastructure continues to deteriorate. Entrepreneurs and other Manitobans want better value-formoney from local governments. Those running for local office know exactly what needs to be done. Our By Elliot Sims local councils need to rein in spending, particularly the money they spend on the day-to-day running of a municipality. In order to maintain service levels, governments should limit spending increases to no more than inflation and population growth. According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business’ (CFIB) inaugural report ‘Manitoba Municipal Spending Watch’, this has not occurred in Manitoba’s 24 largest municipalities for some time. In fact, between 2008 and 2012, Manitoba communities with over 5,000 residents increased their day-to-day spending, on average, by 15 per cent, even after accounting for inflation. That is three times the population growth over the same time frame. That amounts to $412 million in spending increases that are unwarranted, costing residents of those communities $443 per person in unnecessary spending. The CFIB report, states the problem is driven by labour costs and how much we pay municipal workers. On average, labour costs account for 57 % of total municipal spending and these costs are growing quickly. Over the 5 years covered by the report, the cost of labour grew by an inflation-adjusted 17 %. While growing communities do require additional municipal workers, the cost-per-worker is unreasonably high and causing financial strain. According to CFIB’s Wage Watch report, Manitoba municipal workers receive 34 % more in wages and benefits than people doing the exact same jobs in the private sector. This includes higher wages, gold-plated pension plans and overly generous benefits. We all know that money has to come from somewhere and whether it is today or tomorrow, we will pay the price through higher property taxes, which deter economic development and job creation in a province with an already burdensome taxation environment. It also comes at the cost of legitimate spending to create and renew infrastructure. Roads, pipes, bridges. All of these things cost money to build. Facing a municipal infrastructure deficit measured in the billions, local governments are looking for new money, and higher taxes simply cannot be the answer. Using cost estimates from the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association, these unreasonable labour costs are coming at the expense of significant infrastructure investment. Over the past five years, redirecting $412 million in savings would have paid for repaving 164km kilometers of 2 lane highway, equivalent to nearly the entire length of Highway 8, or replacing over 800 km of water and sewer lines. On the other hand, if the savings had been directed toward tax relief, each resident family of four would have saved over $1,700. With working Manitobans hit by across-the-board tax increases by local governments, school boards and the provincial government in the last few years, savings of this size would be welcomed. Everyone agrees Manitoba’s infrastructure is crumbling and municipal property taxes are already too high. Unless elected officials take action to rein in their operating spending by bringing the wages and benefits paid to municipal workers back to sustainable levels, chronic overspending in this area will continue to eat away at infrastructure spending and force taxes higher. Let’s hope the issue of sustainable spending gets the attention it deserves during upcoming municipal debates. On October 22, make sure your local officials know that they have a spending problem, not a revenue problem. Elliot Sims is the Manitoba Director of Provincial Affairs with the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) and can be reached at msman@cfib.ca or you can follow him on twitter @CFIBMB. CFIB is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 109,000 members including 4,800 members in Manitoba across every sector and region.
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October 2014
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Tache Family Farm Receives the Century Designation By Marianne Curtis On September 20, the Beauchemin family marked a significant milestone when their family farm was officially designated as a century farm by the province. For the past forty-two years, Armand and Marjorie Beauchemin have maintained the family farm, on the same site that his grandparents, Robert and Melina Beauchemin settled back in 1907 until 1951. Located in the RM of Tache, the farm is located along Highway 210, east of Ile-des-Chênes. “They built themselves a log house on a higher piece of land, next to the Oak Island River,” explained Marjorie. “They started off with 2 bulls, 2 oxen, 20 cows, 2 pigs and chickens. Later, Robert had an apiary.” The first generation of owners took on the task of clearing brush and trees then built their home followed by several farm buildings. “They cleared all the land, sweating, building, toiling, threshing, reaping and above all hoping and praying their way through and making all of this [the farm] happen,” Marjorie marvelled. While building the farm, the couple raised a family of four girls and two boys. In 1951, their youngest son Gerald and his wife Mary took over the farm and raised seven children, three girls and four boys on the property. “All the children had their jobs, whether it was milking cows or gathering, working and grading eggs,” Marjorie continued. “Yes, the kids worked hard, everyone had to do their part.” Armand and Marjorie became the third generation to take over the farm in what was a natural transition for the newly married couple in 1972. “This was definitely Armand’s life, he was born and raised a farmer,” Marjorie said. “For us there could not be any better place to raise a family. We raised six children here. Raising our children on the farm taught them respect, responsibility and discipline. They are where they are today because they were raised this way.” As the family celebrated being the third generation of a century farm, they could not help but reflect on what they have accomplished. “When we sold our dairy herd 10 years ago, we’d grown it from 28 cows to 65, from 406 acres to 668 acres which we still own and operate today,” Marjorie added. “We are proud and fortunate to have been and remain part of this way of life.”
Armand and Marjorie Beauchemin pour over handwritten RM of Tache property tax records dating back a hundred years to find his grandfather, Robert Beauchemin’s name as the owner of Lot 8 in the Oak Island Settlement.
Landmark Farmers Harvest Food Grains Crop
Despite a delay, the Landmark Growing Project gathered on September 25 to harvest this year’s contribution to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. Harold Penner, Manitoba Regional Coordinator for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB) said the group was forced to delay harvest due to weather. “Everyone gathered to harvest but the weather played a trick on the farmers again so it had to be postponed until the next day,” said Penner. “However, thanks to Terry Moyer of Richardson Pioneer there was a wonderful time of having lunch, an opportunity for me to share a bit about CFGB activities in Manitoba.” While final numbers for this year’s harvest are not in, previous crops have yielded about $90,000 worth of grain, which is matched 4:1 by the federal government. Canadian Foodgrains Bank is a partnership of Canadian church-based agencies working to end hunger in developing countries by increasing and deepening the involvement of Canadians, in an effort to end hunger. Through the CFGB, a number of grain producers in the region donate portions of their crops, or plant specifically to support the program. Nationally the CFGB has delivered
over $515 million worth of programming and shipped 1,005,725 metric tonnes of food and seeds to 76 countries around the world.
The community came out in full force to help the Landmark group harvest their donations for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
Photo by Marianne Curtis
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
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The Horseman… Aussie Cowboy Treks Through Southeast Manitoba and Beyond “For thousands of years the once fearless horse was ridden into battle dodging the blade of a sword, machine gun fire and bombs. Hence the term ‘Bombproof’. What amazes me is how these days most are scared of a shopping bag.”
Joe Guy, The Horseman By Dan Guetre Over the next few weeks, Manitobans can catch sight of Joe Guy, one of the last true long-
Community Outreach Has Pressing Needs By Marianne Curtis As winter approaches, the Steinbach Community Outreach is looking for help from the community to assist people who are struggling to meet their basic needs. The Steinbach Community Outreach was formed in 2008 with a primary focus to help the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless. The organization assists about 200 people per year who are struggling with homelessness and approximately 75 people per month through the Outreach Room, which provides food and clothing. The group serves families, single parents and individuals of all ages and backgrounds. “Our role is to assist them with basic start up items as they transition from the street into a permanent home,” explained a spokesperson from Steinbach Outreach. “Once their basic shelter needs are met, we offer our services for approximately two more years, to assist in overcoming struggles and help them grow into the next step of independence and wholeness.” In order to ensure the continued success of the program, a number of food items are needed. The organization is looking for donations of casseroles, soups and freezer meals as well as extra meat, vegetables, basic groceries and lunch items for families with school aged children are also in need. With winter, coming there is also an urgent requirement for items such as yarn to make blankets and other items, plus donations of books and winter clothing, mittens, hats and scarves. Gifts for the upcoming Community Christmas are also being accepted now. Items or funds can be dropped off at the Steinbach Mennonite Church at 345 Loewen Blvd beside the Family Medical Clinic, Tuesday to Thursday from 9:30 am - 4 pm.
riders as he makes his way through the back roads and main roads on horse back heading towards Saskatchewan and Alberta. “This is what I do,” said Joe on a break just outside of La Broquerie as he explained how he is a rider, poet, author, musician and entertainer and over the past few years has ridden close to 20,000 miles in three countries, Australia, U.S. and Canada. What is most amazing about Joe’s Long Rider experiences is the horses he rides. “I find the horses deemed unbreakable, ones that others have tried to train and failed,” explained Joe. Horses that others are ready to give up on are the horses that speak to Joe. The horse he is currently riding had never been ridden, been through various training experiences and the horse habitually flipped over backwards as soon as you tried to ride it. Tenyear-old ‘Little Man’ started life as Jag and had limited time left on the Thunder Bay acreage unless someone could correct his reluctance for a saddle. “I am able to understand the horse psychology. I discover their problem, bring it to the surface and have them deal with it. It took me five day… actually, five hours, an hour a day over five days and here I was riding him,” said Joe. “Every time someone put their foot in the stirrup he would rear up
Long rider Joe Guy with ‘Little Man’ on the outskirts of La Broquerie.
a few times, flip over backwards and then be led back to the stables for food and water,” said Joe. “I changed that. I worked with him and eventually he learned that he wasn’t going to the barn, the reward for rearing up. And, after a few sessions, I was riding him.” Joe’s passion for rescue horses has saved thousand of riders and horses from injuries or worse. In the end though, whether traveling a few miles or hundreds, he finds a new home for the horse given to him and looks for the next challenge. While Joe Guy admits there are long riders out there and there are a handful of experienced trainers, he believes he is the only one who combines them. So much so that interest in Joe’s lifestyle has caught the eye of television producers and the potential of a show in the near future is being developed with some filming already complete. ‘The Rescue Rider’ could become a reality in the near future. “The [producers] truly did not understand what I
Photo by Dan Guetre
really do until they actually spent a night out with me. They finally understood,” explained Joe, who does not seek out the cozy bed we all take for granted. Most of the times he sleeps outside in a barn or the open air by his horse. He has traveled and slept through blizzards and -35 degree weather. Currently he rides with a video camera mounted to his cowboy hat, documenting his trip and experience. You can follow the Joe Guy’s long ride at joeguylongrider.com and check him out on Facebook where there are links to his book, videos and music.
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October 2014
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Federal Government Supports Local Hemp Industry By Marianne Curtis
It’s not too late to sign up! Theatre – the Backyard Theatre Company for ages 5 – 15. Build confidence and ignite your creativity. Practice voice projection, memorization and story writing, plus improvisation and fun exercises. You’ll love our props room full of costumes. Special offer: for ages 5 - 8 year olds, bring a friend and get your season for 50% off! XCOMPANY Dance & Martial Arts for ages 3 to adult – Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Broadway Stars, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop, Breakdance, Chinese or Filipino Martial Arts and more! To register call 204-371-8007 or steinbach@xcompany.net. Music and Theory (piano, voice, flute, violin, guitar, accordion) with the Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts. Cooking – Creative Cooking, Dessert Art and Kids in the Kitchen Languages – Spanish, French; Check it out! It’s NEW! Backbeat School of Music – for aspiring new students ages 12 - 17 who want a place to play or sing music, to jam together and have fun! We provide a place to play and encourage young artists to learn, grow and perform under the guidance of music mentors – coordinated by Trev Schellenberg from Golden West Radio. Starting October 4 - Saturday workshops form 9 am - Noon – $39 for the fall session and a performance show. If you still want an interview, call us. Young Artist in Concert Series – It’s Luke Reimer, country artist in his debut at SAC! Friday, October 17 at Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre, 7:30 pm. Luke is a talented performer and songwriter has performed in many festivals, shows, and has recorded his music as well. The evening will include many familiar tunes, as well as some of his creative originals. Adults $14, Students $12. Call for tickets. Concert Season tickets make a great gift – plus the best seats in the house all year round. Five shows – great rates! Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Concert, Tuesday, December 2, Manitoba Theatre Centre Armstrong’s War, Tuesday, February 17, Cadence – Unplugged, 4 voices, Monday, March 23,Messiah with Canzona, WSO players and a regional choir of local singers and a community musical – Anne of Green Gables on Friday, May 1. Added Attractions include (SAC members get 10% off these added attractions) Family show – Munsch Upon a Time by Prairie Theatre Exchange, Friday January 16, SRSS. Piano Violin Fusion Fundraiser – Roy and Rosemary – Wednesday, March 4. Season Ticket holders get 15% off The Roy & Rosemary event. For your wellness…. Reduce stress and increase flexibility with Pilates, Zumba and Yoga… or experience the physical benefits of Belly Dance. Come with friends, family or co-workers. The Steinbach Arts Centre has something for every night of the week. New! AcroYoga™ - acrobatic yoga using a partner. Tons of Visual Arts classes – Kids! Try Kid’s Art Adventure, Art XTravaganza, Cartoon Illustration, and Clay Hand Building… Teens and Adults! Check out Exploring Acrylics, Realism/Impressionism/Abstraction painting, Pottery Passion, Clay Intro to the Wheel or Digital Photography, including a Photography class just for moms! Learn how to photograph your child in using the best techniques. Back by popular demand… the Arts Centre is kicking up our FUSION Musical Theatre program once again! Leave your name with us, and we’ll let you know all about our upcoming workshops. Dance and Martial Arts for ages 3 to adult with XCOMPANY Physical Arts Training School. Try Hip Hop, Breakdance, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Broadway Stars, Musical Theatre, Kickboxing A family values based program, XCOMPANY costumes and choreography are 100% parent-approved. To Steinbach Social Dancers – call Lorna Warkentin at 204-326-2617. Working parents – your toddlers will love the Arts4Tots Preschool Program! It is a family values-based program with a huge focus on exploration and discovery in music, theatre, dance and visual arts. We hire professional clinicians to teach special workshops geared towards our tots, to help them learn and grow in the most hands-on way possible. A few spaces left. On Now in the Hall Gallery - Expressions: Exploring Recovery Through Art featuring local artists in several mediums. Opening is Friday, October 3, 7 pm – free admission. Runs until Friday, October 31. Calling all musicians! SAC is a partner with the Steinbach Pistons supplying all Anthem Artists – looking for singers, instrumentalists, groups and performers to perform the National Anthem at games. The arts and sports together! View all events on steinbachartscouncil.ca.
The Federal Government is supporting the Canadian hemp industry by helping a Ste. Agathe company build a brand new worldclass hemp processing facility with the latest in conveyance, processing and quality assurance equipment. On September 26, Provencher MP Ted Falk was at Hemp Oil Canada, in Ste. Agathe, to announce that the company would receive up to $4.6 million in repayable contributions from the Federal Government. “The expanding hemp industry represents a great opportunity for Canadian farmers,” stated Falk. “Our Government is proud to support this growing industry so that farmers can continue to expand their markets and develop more products.” The new facility is expected to implement the latest processing technology to further enhance food safety and quality standards and significantly increase the company’s capacity for delivering high quality hemp products to buyers around the world. Shaun Crew, President and CEO of Hemp Oil Canada, founded the company in 1998, the same month that Health Canada re-legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp in Canada. Fourteen months later, they opened the first exclusive hemp seed processing facility located in Ste. Agathe. “As a pioneer of the Canadian hemp food industry, we are thrilled to have gained the approval of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada for this important expansion of our processing unit to service worldwide market demand for our 100%
An aerial shot of construction taking place at Hemp Oil Canada in Ste. Agathe.
Canadian made, food safe products that will be produced in a state of the art facility here in rural Manitoba,” stated Crew. Crew said that over the last three years, the cultivation of hemp has risen. In 2012, Canada exported over $21 million worth of hemp products
to international markets. For the same year, the total retail value of hemp products in North America alone exceeded $500 million. This includes food and body products, clothing, auto parts, building materials and other products, he added.
Hemp Oil Canada CEO Shaun Crew shows Provencher MP Ted Falk the ropes during a tour of the Ste. Agathe plant.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
October 2014
9
Bobcat Released Near Gardenton Southern Health By Marianne Curtis
Sharing Our Story
On September 5, a rescued bobcat was released back into the wild near Gardenton after spending seven months in rehabilitation. Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre first met 15-month-old Amira, when she was brought into the facility with broken legs and a broken hip after being hurt by a car near Falcon Lake in January. After months of recovery and rehabilitation, Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre released her back into the wild at the Tall Grass Prairie Reserve near Gardenton. Lisa Tretiak, President of Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre said it was a long eight months for Amira. “From her initial injuries and Amira waits for the cage door to be opened. requiring a specialized surgery, she was ready to go back into the wild,” stated Tretiak. “Even though she spent eight months in rehab, she did not form any bonds with staff or volunteers. She kept her predatory behaviour as we tried to ensure she did not get accustomed to captivity.” While the bobcat was found in Falcon Lake, she was not released back into the Whiteshell Provincial Park deliberately. “We wanted to make sure that the site was away from people and large predators like wolves and lynx; she would also be at a disadvantage due to the deep snow accumulation in the area,” Tretiak continued. Tall Grass Prairie Reserve was identified as a better site, as other bobcats have been spotted in the After eight months recovering from a car crash, Amira dashes off to freedom in her new home at the Tall Grass Prairie Reserve near Gardenton. area, she added.
Coyotes Pups All Grown Up
Above Left: Two weeks old and abandoned. Above Right: All grown up and ready for release.
By Marianne Curtis On September 7, six coyote pups under the care of Wildlife Haven and Sanctuary in Ile-des-Chênes were released back into the wild. The Dawson Trail Dispatch first introduced readers to this litter back in June, when the pups were brought into the facility in May after being found abandoned in another part of the province. Dan Diawal, Director with Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre said the pups required special care during the first few weeks. “These pups came to us in early May at about 2 weeks old, found abandoned, cold and hungry near Brandon,” said Diawal. “They have grown up to be very strong and healthy!” Initially the litter was bottle fed formula until they were old enough to eat on their own. While the coyotes have been returned to the wild, there are still a number of other animals on site in the process of being rehabilitated for release. Anyone wishing to contribute to the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre can visit the web site for more details at wildlifehaven.ca.
Your Clean Hands Did you wash your hands today? Think about all of the things you’ll touch today from your toothbrush, to the telephone, to doorknobs, to cash, to coffee cups and, yes, even the toilet seat. Now think of how many times you washed your hands in between these activities. It’s so easy for germs on your hand to end up in your mouth and that is how we get sick or we make someone else sick. We’ve all seen the signs and heard the message. Our moms have been telling us to ‘wash our hands’ for as long as we can remember. We’ve heard the message over and over again that covering your cough and washing your hands is the best way to prevent germs from spreading. Essentially, it’s a matter of training our minds and making it a habit. Some key moments for hand washing are: - When your hands are dirty. - Before eating or touching food. - After using the bathroom. - After blowing your nose or coughing. - After touching pets or other animals. - Before and after visiting someone who’s sick. Moreover, remember your health is in your CLEAN hands! Submitted by Southern Health
Arsonist Burns Students’ Books On August 26, at approximately 3 am, St-Pierre-Jolys RCMP attended a fire at the Niverville Collegiate in Niverville. A library book repository and numerous books were destroyed by fire.
The local fire department attended the scene and ensured it had not spread. RCMP are continuing their investigation and are asking anyone with information to contact the StPierre-Jolys RCMP at 204-433-7908 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, submit a secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com or text ‘TIPMAN’ plus your message to CRIMES (274637).
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October 2014
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Monday
Up and Coming Events and Monthly Programs: The centre is closed for Thanksgiving on Monday, October 13. Regular programming will continue as usual on Tuesday, October 14. Bus Trip to Warroad Casino: On Thursday, October 2 a bus, trip to Warroad Casino. Bus leaves the center at 9:30 am and returns around 6:30 pm. You will receive $20 USD and $5 for lunch. Total cost $35 for members and $40 for non-members. Payment needed to be in on Friday, September 26. Contact 204-320-4600. Dance Lessons: Old Time Country and Pattern Dance Lessons begin this fall. From Tuesday October 7 – Tuesday December 16. Alternating dance lesson times for Beginners and Intermediates from 7 - 8:30 pm and 8:30 -10 pm. Instructors Jerry and Sandy Dion will be back again to teach. The first session is 8 lessons. Cost $10 a lesson per couple for members and $12 a lesson per couple for non-members. Member price $80 and nonmember price $96 for 8 lessons. Contact 204-320-4600 to register. October Potluck: On Thursday, October 9 at 6 pm. Cost $5 per person and we ask you to bring a dish large enough to share. We require salad, casserole or a dessert. Ham for our Thanksgiving Potluck and our former Choir Director David Wiebe will be here with a smaller choir that he directs to entertain us for the evening. Please call ahead to let us know you are coming, how many people and what you will be bringing. Contact 204320-4600 to register. Fall BBQ Rib Dinner: On Sunday, October 19 at 5 pm. A fundraiser for the Steinbach Meals Program. Tickets are $15 each and children 5 and under are free. Tickets available from the Pat Porter Active Living Centre – 10 Chrysler Gate. On the Menu, BBQ Ribs, Perogies, Roasted Potatoes, Southwestern Corn Salad, Glazed Carrots, Coleslaw, Baked Beans, Corn Bread, Pumpkin Pie and Apple Crisp. Seats are limited, get your tickets early. Contact 204-320-4604 or 204-320-4600 for more information. Mature Drivers Workshop: On Wednesday, October 29 from 9 am - 12 pm, Safety Service Manitoba in partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance offers a FREE workshop to experienced drivers who wish to brush up on their skills to enhance their driving performance. Learn defensive driving techniques, enhance your driving skills, update your knowledge of current traffic laws and show you how to compensate for changes that occur in hearing, vision, flexibility and reaction time. Please note there is no testing involved and this workshop will not affect your driver’s license in any way. Contact 204-320-4600 to register. (15 people are required for this workshop to run) Evaluations will be conducted for those who want to sign up for them from 1-3 pm. Flu Clinic for Seniors: A flu Clinic is being offered to our seniors on Friday, October 31from 9:30 -11:30 am. Please come on down and get your Flu Shot for the season. Old Time Country Dance: On Friday, October 31 at 8 pm with live Band – Highway Six. Tickets available at the center. Advanced tickets $10 for members, $12 for non-members and $14 at the door. Lunch served at 10 pm. Christmas Craft & Trade Show: On Saturday, November 1 from 10 am 3 pm. A collection of local home businesses and crafters displaying a large range of products including a variety of Christmas gifts for the family. Book your table now! To become an exhibitor, find out conditions or to request a registration form contact Kathy 204-320-4602, programs@patporteralc.com or Carrie 204-320-4604 crc@patporteralc.com. Mall Walking Kick-Off Breakfast: On Tuesday, November 4 registration begins at 8 am with breakfast at Uncle Jakes to follow at 8:30 am. Please call ahead and advise if you are coming. Pickle Ball: On Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. A racquet sport for all ages and all athletic ability levels in which two to four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a polymer perforated ball over a net. Wear comfortable clothing and lace up, rubbersoled shoes. Cost $2 for each session. Floor Curling or Floor Shuffle: From Mondays to Fridays in our auditorium. Cost is $2 for each session. Fitness - Exercise Classes: On Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30 10:30 am. We offer fitness for older adults with a qualified instructor. 2 different session prices available. Contact 204-320-4600. FLK TAI CHI: On Monday evenings from 7 - 8 pm for beginners and 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm for continuing; Wednesday mornings from 9 -10 am for beginners and from 10 - 11:30 am for continuing. Contact 204-326-1713 for more information. Computer Classes: Every Wednesday for 1 hour from 9 am - noon. Contact 204-320-4600 to make an appointment. October & November Birthday Celebrations: Wednesdays October 1 and November 5 at 2 pm. Celebrate with us! Bring your friends! Guests pay $2 for coffee and cake. Old Time Country and Pattern Dance Lessons: Weekly from 7 – 10 pm. Cost per couple for 15 lessons: $125 members and $145 non-members. Dance instructors are Jerry and Sandy Dion from Winnipeg. The Old Time Country Band - On Wednesday, September 3. Cost is $1. Model Trains: Meet from Noon - 4:30 pm. Cost $1 for the afternoon. Pool: Drop in on Monday to Friday from Noon - 4 pm. Regular pool and snooker available. Cost $1 for the afternoon. Foot Care: On the first Tuesday, first Wednesday and third Tuesday of the month from 9 am - 2 pm. Run by a professional foot care nurse. Cost $30. Bring your own towel. Contact the centre to book an appointment. Beltone Hearing: On the third Friday of each month. Contact 1-800-6612653 for appointment. Parkinson’s Support Group: Meets the last Friday of the month at 1 pm. Brain Injury Support Group: Meet the last Monday of the month at 7 pm.
9 am – 12 pm Floor Curling and/or Shuffle 12 - 4:30 pm Drop-in Pool 1 - 4 pm Pickleball 1 - 4:30 pm Model Trains 1 pm Canasta 7 pm Tai Chi Tuesday 9 am -12 pm Pickleball 9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Floor Curling and/or Shuffle 2:30 - 4:30 pm Family Search 7 - 10 pm Dance Lessons Wednesday 9 am -12 pm Computer classes - call to register 10 - 11:30 am Tai Chi 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Cribbage 1 - 4 pm Floor Curling and/or Shuffle 7 - 9 pm Old Time Band Practice Thursday 9:30 - 10:30 am P.A.C.E. Program and Urban Poling 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Whist 1 - 4 pm Floor Curling and/or Shuffle 6 - 9 pm Pickleball 6 - 8 pm Family Search by appointment only Friday 9 am - 12 pm Floor Curling and/or Shuffle 9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $6. Contact 204-320-4605 by 9 am to reserve your meal for that day. Purchase your meal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menus available at the office or in the newsletter. Bring a friend. Volunteer Opportunities include perogy making, decorating and setting tables, birthday party hosts, food preparation and serving, clean up, greeters and receptionists.
Hanover School Division Celebrates Expansion at SRSS By Marianne Curtis The Hanover School Division opened its doors on September 23 for the grand opening of the newly expanded Steinbach Regional Secondary School (SRSS). Premier Greg Selinger and Minister of Education James Allum were among the many honoured guests who came out to help celebrate the newly completed SRSS expansion in Steinbach. Hanover School Division Superintendent Randy Dueck said the expansion and renovations would allow SRSS to welcome Grade 9 students for the first time, while providing future education opportunities for the growing Hanover region. “The SRSS expansion will further existing vocational programs and provide new opportunities for vocational training,” stated Dueck. “It will also bring over 200 grade 9 students into a purposefully designed Senior Years facility and increase student capacity to nearly 2,000 students.” Dueck added that the addition was designed to last over 100 years, as an, “Enduring learning asset.” The new 105,000 square foot expansion began in November 2012. The $40.4 million project designed by Stantec Architecture and contracted by PennCo Construction, consists of a two story expansion that includes band and choral, a new welding and power mechanic’s shop and human ecology rooms. Study spaces, gymnasium and an outdoor learning environment based on the Fibonacci Spiral Design were also added. Public access includes a day care centre with space for 20 infants and 54 preschool children, cosmetology salon and cafe. Upon completion of the project, the SRSS campus has earned the Power Smart designation from Manitoba Hydro for meeting energy
efficiency requirements and recommended best practices. To meet this status, the project included features such as increased levels of roof and wall insulation, high performance triple-pane windows, geothermal ground source heating and cooling, highefficiency heat recovery of ventilation air and lowlighting power density coupled with occupancy sensors and day lighting controls.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
October 2014
11
La Broquerie Arena Plans Delayed By Marianne Curtis The community of La Broquerie will eventually see the benefit of a new arena expansion after the $2 million project received the green light in principle from the municipality. However, the project could be delayed until the community can raise more money for the project because of a significant rise in construction costs. RM of La Broquerie Reeve Claude Lussier said the council is trying to remain fiscally responsible by revisiting the project after initial cost estimates have risen by $1 million. “The project was initially estimated for $2 million, but after we recently hired the construction company, due to inflation the costs have risen to $3 million,” Lussier confirmed. “Council was stunned.” The RM of La Broquerie recently hired Penn-Co Construction to review the plans and provided final numbers to the municipality. “We understood that there can be a 10-12 percent cost variance, but in this case, the project costs rose significantly,” Lussier continued. “We could probably start the project right away, but the question is where do we get the extra million dollars? We don’t want to dig ourselves into a financial hole.” When the municipality launched the project, the municipality was sitting on firmer ground financially. However, other priorities, including a $6 million community lagoon project could push the project towards the bottom of the municipality’s to-do list. The lagoon project will be costly, but the municipality will receive federal and provincial funding from the Building Canada fund. The La Broquerie arena project as proposed includes five dressing rooms, an improved lobby, canteen, hall facilities and a community meeting room. Lussier said the current facility that was built in 1978 could no longer accommodate the growing needs of the community. Over 200 children use the facility for hockey, figure skating and the CanSkate program. Another fundraising campaign is expected to take place over the next year, and the RM of La Broquerie will be asking the community to help fund the arena. The municipality will match the total amount of funds raised by the community.
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October 2014
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
October 2014
13
Marchand’s Award Winning Water Achieves Global Status By Marianne Curtis The owner of Canadian Gold Beverages in Marchand has a lot to celebrate after the locally drawn and bottled water was named as the first and only beverage to be kosher for all religious groups. Locally, this may seem meaningless, yet on a global scale, it is a significant coup for the local company, explained Peter De Jong, President of Canadian Gold. “Our product called Touch Organics won an award in Dubai, India. It is the first drink in the world to be Peter De Jong, President of Canadian approved as kosher, or in other words good for all Gold Beverages shows off a number religions,” De Jong explained. “This opens a whole of the different products his company new market for us, because in the middle east, they produces in Marchand, including a are not allowed any American drinks because the limited edition of Pic-A-Pop. sugar is ground with bone. Our water is pure quality Photo by Marianne Curtis and in great demand overseas.” Because of this designation, Canadian Gold Beverages recently signed a contract with a Dubai businessman, to provide product to the 400 gas stations that he owns. “Our product is in huge demand overseas,” De Jong continued. “What makes our product unique is the level of alkaline in the product. If you drink our water, it will give you energy without sugar because of the alkaline.” De Jong, a local dairy farmer from the RM of La Broquerie, purchased the Canadian Gold Beverages in September of 2012 and reopened it for business. He is grateful for the overseas markets that are opening up and hopes to gain more local support through private label orders. “It is very difficult to get into stores here. Big box stores want to sell cheaper water and they find us too pricey for their market. Other smaller stores sign exclusive contracts with one of the two big soft drink companies, which closes the doors to locally produced products,” De Jong continued. “We don’t mass produce water here; if people have an idea for a drink they want to make, we are the people to call. Just recently we made some special flavours for a company in Toronto,” he added. The company also produces a limited edition of Pic-APop. “This is a limited edition, only available around Thanksgiving, to induce nostalgia, while quantities last,” said De Jong. “We produce five different flavours per year and when they are sold out, that is it until next year.” Drawn from wells located on the property, Canadian Gold Beverages has a credible track record. The product was named the world’s best tasting water at the annual Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting Competition in 2013 and 2014. It was also recognized, in 2012, 2011 and 2009, prior to De Jong’s ownership. Canadian Gold Beverages, opened twenty-five years ago under the name of Hanover Springs.
Ste. Anne Hires Recreational Director The Town of Ste. Anne has finalized the hiring of the Recreation Services Manager after they named Josie Unrau for the position. Prior to obtaining her position with the Town of Ste. Anne, Unrau worked as Recreation Director for the RM of Reynolds and RM of Whitemouth, along with the Whitemouth River Recreation Commission. “With a combination of work and life experience, plus my outgoing personality, I believe I have a lot I can contribute to the Town of Ste. Anne, and I am excited to see the world of recreation within this community grow,” stated Unrau. Unrau said her first priority would be getting to know the community and residents. “If anyone has suggestions as to fitness or wellness classes, or programs they’d like to see offered they can drop me a line or give me a call,” Unrau added. “We will see what we can do to make it happen.” She is also looking for any local fitness or wellness facilitators who would like to partner with the Town and bring more activities to the community.
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October 2014
COMMUNITY EVENTS
More Than Just News!
Middlebro Fall Supper – On Saturday October 4, from 5 – 7 pm at the Community Hall in Middlebro. Include ham, meatballs, perogies, cabbage rolls, vegetables, sauerkraut and sausage, salad, mashed potatoes and gravy, dinner rolls and angel EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT TO EDITOR@DAWSONTRAIL.CA OR FAX 204-422-8548 food cake with Cool Whip and strawberries for dessert. Contact East Braintree from Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Services and programs 204-437-2437. Community Potluck – On Saturday, October 7 from 5 – 7 pm for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, at the Midwinter Heritage Museum. Bring your favourite dish foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard Mitchell maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Breakfast and Social - Every Tuesday morning, 7:30 - 9 am and share with neighbours. Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan, 204- except the last Tuesday of the month when the social is held 424-5285 or labseinerss@gmail.com. Shopping Trips to instead. Lunch starts at noon at the Mitchell and Area Seniors Friedensfeld Oktoberfest – On Saturday, October 4 from 6:30 - 11:59 pm Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, Centre. Contact 204-326-6944. at the Friedensfeld Hall. Oktoberfest Live Band ‘Small Town leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Limits’ $17 per person, includes hot supper and night lunch. Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. Niverville Happy Hour at 6:30 pm, Supper 7 - 8:30 pm. Contact June Cost $10. The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club Open House – On Monday, Holme 204-326-2633 or Janice Beckman 204-326-3013. October 6 from 7:30 – 9 pm with special guest speaker Jared Landmark Funk, local Olympian, Come hear his story and meet the Grunthal Holiday Home Party Vendor & Craft Sale - On Saturday, members of the Crow Wing Toastmasters club of Niverville. Beef Meeting - On Thursday, October 9 from 7 – 10 pm at the November 22 from 10 am - 3 pm at the Kinsmen Community Meets every Monday at 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Grunthal Auction Mart. Topics: Nutrition Update, Herd Health Centre by the arena, 191 Robert Koop Rd. Cash & carry items Centre. If you want to become a better speaker, run meetings update and dealing with local issues, Western Livestock Price from all of our vendors & crafters! Gifts for everyone on your list that are more effective or develop leadership skills, a Insurance Program and Back grounding Economics. Contact including your pets! Contact hostesshub.com. Toastmasters Club is the place to start. Contact Sheryl Berglund, Grunthal Auction Mart 204-434-6519 or Vita GO Office 204Sberglund4@shaw.ca. 425-5050. Lorette Fall Supper - On Sunday, October 12 from Noon - 6 pm at the Chamber Wine & Cheese Networking Event – On Thursday, Hadashville Notre Dame de Lorette Parish in the Parish Hall, 1282 Dawson October 16 from 7 - 9:30 pm at 10 Cedar Dr. Contact Cara Fall Supper & Dance – On Saturday, October 25 at the Rd. All are welcome. Tickets at the door cost ages under 4 free, Dowse 204-388-4600, chamber@niverville.com. Reynold’s Seniors Club at 6 pm. Cost $20 for dinner and dinner 5 - 11 $5, 12 and up $12. and dance is $25. Contact Maureen 204-426-5261, Donna GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced the 204-426-5448, Linda 204-426-5422, Diane 204-426-5297. Suds, Spuds Steak or Chicken Dinner - On Friday, October 24 loss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learn at the Dawson Trail Motor Inn (Bar side) Club Les Blés d’Or. about the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to register Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville Cost $20. Silent auction. Contact 204-878-2405 Evéline or or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com. Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years 204-878-2315 Michelle. old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six. stress release and have an excellent workout at the same Book Drive & Fundraising – Event on Saturday December 6 Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the time. Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask from 10 am – 4 pm at Collège Lorette Collegiate, 1082 Dawson lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.) about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or Road. Bibliothèque Taché Library offers a wide variety of books Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along KSTA.academy@gmail.com. at affordable prices at our giant used book sale during the with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms Christmas Market sale. Please donate gently used books. Drop visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com. Ile-des-Chênes them into specially marked crates at your child’s school. Library Fall Supper – On Sunday, October 19 from 3 - 7:30 pm at the Board members will collect during the month of October. Hours, Otterburne Transcanada Centre, 1 Rivard Street. Hosted by Seine River Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 4:30 – 8:30 pm, Saturday Book Publishing Boot Camp – On Saturday, Oct 4, 2014 from Minor ball as a fundraiser for Minor Ball programs. Contact 10 am – 2 pm. Contact 204-878-9488 or btl@srsd.ca. 9 am- 5 pm at the Providence College and Seminar School. 204-878-4765. Have you written a book and want to know more about your The Community Christmas Market - On Saturday, December 6 publishing options? Self-publishing is not as hard (or Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturday in support of the Tache Christmas Hampers at the College expensive) as you think. Find out your publishing options, of every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn about Lorette Collegiate from 10 am to 4 pm. Local entertainment, how to market and sell. Meet other authors. Attention teachers Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive Blessed silent auction and Tache Library’s first Book Sale. did you know that you can take class projects and publish Rose Petals and other Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’s them for students? For 30 students, you can create a nice place of miracles. Contact Corinna 204-878-4908 or email her Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) – Volunteer opportunities. quality paperback for about $5 a book and not have to buy at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for more info and register. If you go for walks, bike rides, jogs or even just drive around 1,000 copies! A great fundraising opportunity! $50 per person the community, please put on a COPP vest and show your plus $10 for lunch (optional) Contact Marianne Curtis 204support or help with administrative duties. Can you donate an 794-1207, emeraldpublications.wordpress.com or Al Bayne Kleefeld Community Playgroup - for parents, caregivers and children hour per month? Contact Trevor, 204-955-3434 204-433-3010. ages 0-5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs and Lorettecopp@gmail.com. snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the Kleefeld Piney New Horizons Seniors - Play cards, Scrabble, Wii and more. Fall Supper – On Saturday October 18 from 4:30 - 6:30 pm at Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013. Drop in Tuesdays 1-5 pm at Foyer Notre Dame Lorette 12 the Community Hall in Piney. Contact 204-423-2053 St.Amant Ave. Contact Iris 204-878-3552. La Broquerie Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de Santé Bingo - Every 2nd Friday at 7 pm.
Dawson Trail Dispatch Prawda Fall Supper - (Advance Tickets Required) On Saturday, October 4 at the Community Hall. Cost $15 Adults, 6-12 yrs $8, 5 and under free. Contact 204-426-2180.
trimmings, mashed potatoes and gravy, ham, meatballs, fresh vegetables, wide variety of desserts topped with whipped cream or ice cream, coffee, tea and juice. Cost Adult $13 and 5 – 12 yrs $6. Contact Guy Gagnon 204-882-2493.
Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondays and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact Wendy 204-348-2433.
Ste. Anne Turkey Fall Supper – On Sunday, October 5 from 4 – 7 pm at the Ste. Anne Collegiate. Adults $12, Children 6-12 yrs, $5 and under 5 free. Tickets at the door with continuous seating. Turkey, meatballs, perogies, cabbage rolls, homemade bread and Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at pies. the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks Paradise Village Squares Dance Club – On Tuesday, October provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290. 7 at 7 pm at the Ste. Anne Elementary School, 177 St. Alphonse Avenue. Modern square dance lessons, casual dress, beginner Richer Seine River Services for Seniors - Program Contact Juliette dancers free, coffee & doughnuts. Contact Laura 204-422Rowan Community Resource Coordinator at 204-424-5575 for 5873 or Henriette 204-422-6948. Richer services or email labseinerss@gmail.com. Beginner Oil Painting Workshop - On Sunday, October 19 from Richer Recovery AA - Group meets every Thursday and Saturday 10 am -2 pm at Knights of Columbus Hall 132 Centrale Ave. from 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Lee at 204- Fee $65 due by Monday October 13 payable to Town of Ste. Anne. Contact Josie 204-422-5293, 451-0255. recservices@steannemb.ca. Instructor Rolande Smith, 204Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey Pchajek 422-9913, yoursnazzypainting@gmail.com. Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating Toastmasters - The Carillon Toastmaster Club and past grades 8 and 12. Children Under 14 must be accompanied by members are invited to join us to help celebrate the 35-year an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open milestone on Saturday, September 20 at the Club Jovial in Ste. at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. Contact Anne at 4 pm. Contact Flora 204-792-7095 or Sheryl 204326-7628. Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 or doreen@spmf.ca. Ste. Anne Cultural Committee - Invites artists of all kinds to Rosa Fall Supper & Dance – On Sunday, October 4 at the Shevchenko their weekly open houses at 112 Centrale Ave. on Tuesdays from 9 - 11:30 am and Wednesdays from 7 - 8:30 pm. These Ukrainian Hall. Contact 204-427-3102 gatherings are to bring artists together to work on and discuss their craft and there is no cost to attend. Contact Diane at 204Roseau River Fall Supper – On Sunday, October 26 at the Roseau River 422-9599 or email cccsa@mymts.net. Bible Camp Contact 204-427-2445. Seine River Services for Seniors – Invite to all seniors interested in the Wii Bowling game to come, try it out and have fun. On Sprague Monday at 1 pm, at Le Club Jovial. Contact Juliette Rowan at Bingo - Every 2nd Wednesday at 7 pm. 204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local services or e-mail labseinerss@gmail.com. St. Adolphe Fall Supper – On Sunday October 19 from 4 – 7 pm at the Pioneer Hall in the Arena 345 Hebert Street. A turkey supper Ste. Geneviève with all the trimmings, homemade salads and desserts. Cost: Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Adult $13 Children $6, Free for children under 5 years old. No Centre on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, from 6:30 reservations. Tickets sold only at the door. For more information, - 8 pm. Selection of books in both French and English, all ages. Over 21,000 books including audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, contact Reginald 204-883-2563. large print books and magazines plus they can import books 40th Anniversary Reunion & Party – On Monday, October 20, from any library in Manitoba. Special requests can be made to from 7 - 11:59 at the Curling Rink. All former and current the librarian, Brandi Schmitz at 204-878 - 9488, Rockettes. A cash bar and silent auction. Pass the word; bring bibliotachelibrary.com or in person. pictures and souvenirs, Rockette pins available for sale. RSVP by Friday, October 10 or sooner. Contact Betty Smith 204-882- Steinbach 2264 or Charlotte Chateau 204-882-2401, Annual Expressions - Exploring Recovery through Art – On Friday, October 3 – Friday October 31. Opening ceremony cchateau@mymts.net. starts at 7 pm at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre Hall Gallery, 50+ Fitness Classes - Every Monday & Friday at 9:30 – 10:30 304 Second Street. Refreshments served, a $2 donation is am. Focus on strength, flexibility and range of motion appreciated. Contact 204-371-0824. movement on a variety of equipment, such as weights, stretch tubing and stability balls. Wednesdays 1 - 2 pm workout is for Annual Sports Cards and Collectables Show – On Saturday, slow flow yoga inspired strength, flexibility, balance and October 4 from 10 am – 5 pm at Clearspring Centre Mall for relaxation. Pre-purchase 10 classes for $40, 5 classes for $20 the Stonybrook Middle School Sports Card Club. With former or drop in for $5 per workout. Special deal purchase 30 classes Winnipeg Jets legend goaltender Joe Daley and former Boston $120, get 8 free. Instructor Janice Burnett, a certified fitness and Providence Bruins forward Jeff Penner who will be signing autographs from 11 - am to noon for a donation. All funds leader. Contact mjburn@shaw.ca. raised from the autograph signing will go to support ProVision Fitness Classes –Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 8 - 9 of Hope in Liberia, West Africa. We are in need of sellers of pm at the St. Adolphe School Gym. Include cardio fitness, sports cards, Collectables, and sports memorabilia. Cost for resistance training, flexibility and balance training. Monthly each table is $20. Contact Don Dewey 204-380-4435. schedule is provided. All fitness levels are welcome. Options are $175 - 35 x $5 per class + 5 classes free, $120 - 20 x $6 Annual Fall Supper Steinbach Legion – On Sunday, October per class or drop in $7 per class. Certified fitness leader Janice 5, from 4 -7 pm at 294 Lumber Avenue. A traditional meal with roast turkey, mashed potatoes, meatballs, cabbage rolls, Burnett. mjburn@shaw.ca. coleslaw, stuffing and of course a variety of delicious pies. Cost: $12/ adult; $6/ child 6 - 11 yrs; free for children under 5 St. Malo Fall Supper - On Sunday, November 2 from 4 - 6:30 pm at the yrs. Supper served continuously. Chalet Malouin Seniors Home 14 St. Hilaire Street. Cost Adults $13, 6 – 12 yrs $6, 5 and under free. Tickets can be purchased Steinbach & Area Garden Club meeting - On Monday, October 6, at the Mennonite Heritage Village at 7 pm. ‘Growing Out of at the door. Contact Louise Maynard 204-347-5753. Zone Plants with Success’ a lesson on growing marginally hardy plants with Chad Labbe, Shelmerdine Garden Centre. St. Pierre-Jolys Parish Fall Supper – On Sunday, October 26 from 3:30 - 6:30 Gardening questions? Join our GARDEN TALK for answers from pm at the Recreation Centre and Arena. Roast beef and Chicken experienced gardeners. Door prizes and refreshments! $5 nonsupper is one of the best in the area with an affordable family members. Contact sagardenclub.com. price. Cost Adults $13, Children $6. Contact Rolly 204-792Immigration Info Session – On Tuesday, October 7 from 6:30 6149. – 8:30 pm at D4-284 Reimer Ave., hosted by Eastman AGM Community Employment and Resource Centre - On Immigration Services, two free sessions on Skilled Workers, Wednesday, October 29 at 7:30 pm at the Bilingual Service Work Permits - LMOs, Family Sponsorship and Permanent Centre, 427 Sabourin Street. Board of Directors would be Resident. An overview of the Federal immigration streams honoured if you join us and celebrate 15 years of service. RSVP presented by David H. Davis, Immigration Lawyer and an by Wednesday, October 15. Contact 204-433-2584, 204-433- overview of the Provincial Nominee Program presented by 2585 or 1-866-366-4407 Gabrielle Musick, Christine Morin or Justina Peters, Immigration Consultant. Come with your questions! Register at 204-346-6609. Rachelle Talbot. Annual Christmas Craft Sale – On Saturday, November 1 at the Fire Hall Open House – On Tuesday, October 7 from 6 – 8 pm at 477 Main Street for Fire Prevention Week featuring Sparky St-Pierre Collegiate Institute. the Fire Dog, the Red River Mutual Fire Safety Trailer, Fire Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression support Extinguisher Demonstrations and a hot dog and drink for $2! Amber Reitsma 204-326-9877, group meetings held on the 4th Tuesday of every month at 7 Contact pm. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital. Contact communications@steinbach.ca. Judy Dunn 444-5228. Bethesda Book Fair – From Thursday, October 16 - Saturday, October 18 at the Clearspring Centre. Used book sale with Sainte-Agathe Fall Supper – On Sunday, October 5 at 4 – 7 pm at the Ste. thousands of books, many, many different categories. Contact Agathe Cultural & Community Centre. Turkey with all the Phyllis Toews 204-346-1640, phyllistoews@mymts.net
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch Flea Market, Craft & Bake Sale – On Saturday, October 18 from 9 am - 4 pm, 294 Lumber Avenue. Organized by the Steinbach Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary. Tables available for $25. To book, contact Shirley at 204-326-3220. Workshop for Parents, Professionals & Caregivers – On Saturday, November 1, from 9 am – 4 pm at the Family Resource Centre. For Parents, Professionals and Caregivers based on the work of Gordon Neufeld Ph.D. and facilitated by Terry Warburton of Recovery of Hope Counselling. ‘Alpha Children, Reclaiming our Rightful Place in Their Lives’. Contact Sandra Friesen rechope@mymts.net, 1-866-493-6202.
October 2014
15
Local Businessmen Stranded on Island for STARS
Fall Turkey Dinner - On Sunday, November 2, from 11:30 am - 1:30 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village Auditorium. For tickets contact Linda Schroeder 204-326-2558, linschro@mymts.net or Mennonite Heritage Village 204-3269661. Healthy Eating Cooking Classes - Every other week on Thursdays at South East Helping Hands. No Charge, enjoy a meal with other community members and learn how to plan & prepare healthy meals on a budget. Contact and register 204-326-2599 or southeasthelpinghands@gmail.com. Adult Book Club - Tuesdays from 7 – 9 pm. Bring book suggestions or peruse our book lists. Meet some other book lovers too and bring a friend. At the Jake Epp Library 255 Elmdale St. Contact Tracey Pankratz 204-326-6841 programming@jakeepplibrary.com. Ladies Get Fit Classes - Sponsored by Eastman Immigrant Services, every Wednesday at 7:15 pm at the Woodlawn School gym. Aerobic, circuit training, weights, mats and stretching exercises. Suitable for all ages and levels of fitness. Register contact Lois 204-346-6609. Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the United Church of Steinbach, 541 Main St. Registration for girls 5-17. Develop personal values and well-being, self-respect and respect for others; promote fun, friendship, adventure and challenges through new experiences; develop leadership and decisionmaking skills; give service to the community; value the natural environment. Green Drinks South Eastman - South Eastman Transition Initiative presents Green Drinks South Eastman. On the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 7 pm at LBees, 5-275 Main St. Grab a coffee and discuss sustainable living. Contact rebecca_hiebert@yahoo.com. The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon at the Pat Porter Centre for active living. Contact Cornie at 3263155. Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for family and friends of people with mental health issues are held the United Transportation Driver Training owner Fred Hiebert won the readiness challenge, kicking off Rescue on the Island. 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden East Chappel, Chappell Ag Ventures Inc., Chuck Davidson, President of the By Marianne Curtis building, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email Manitoba Chamber of Commerce, Andy Dutfield, Lafarge Canada Inc., eastmanmss@mts.net MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living with multiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursday evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place apartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca. MS Lunch Group- On fourth Thursday of every month, from 12 – 1 pm at the Village Green Restaurant. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Coordinator 204-326-1434 or email nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca. Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support groups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns. Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Jake Epp Library from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228. Information and Support Sessions The Bethesda Regional Healthcare Auxiliary - meets on the first Tuesday of every month except for the months of July and August at the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone interested in auxiliary work. Contact Verna Thiessen at 3263028. Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at the Magnolia Restaurant. Contact 204-326-2313. Carillon Toastmasters - meetings are open to adults who want to improve their leadership and communication skills. Thursdays at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, Contact Sheryl at 204-326-7628 or Irene at 204-424-5737. Steinbach Al-Anon Program - Meetings held on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm. Steinbach United Church, 541 Main St. Ring the front door bell.
More than $200,000 was raised by eight community and business leaders in one day at this year’s Rescue on the Island STARS air ambulance fundraising event on Elk Island, north of Victoria Beach on September 10. All participants including Brad Lemay from Grunthal and Fred Hiebert from Blumenort were airlifted by STARS and an Allied Wings helicopter, to the island where they competed against each other to raise the most funds in one day using their mobile phones and personal networks. Lemay participated as a representative of the Grunthal Lions Club and as the owner of LeMazing Mechancial and raised $23,721.27 during the event. “I chose to support STARS for the reason of knowing that Lions International played a major roll in funding the take off, of the STARS program in Alberta in 1985,” stated Lemay. “We as a Lions club in a small community often see the services provided by STARS and want to be a part of that support keeping them in our skies.” Fred Hiebert, who owns United Transportation Driver Training, has been a long time supporter of STARS. “I love to support STARS for one big reason, they save lives, they give people a second chance at life,” said Hiebert who raised $56,333.69. Each participant was presented with a series of challenges on the island, including building sand castles, a medical challenge and an SOS signal contest. Other businesspersons and leaders stranded on the island were Tracy
Open House at the Fire House in Ritchot
Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group starts at 4:30 pm General at Steinbach Family Resource Centre B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- On Tuesdays, 204-346-0413. October 7, November 4, and December 9 from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Join us for a great day of fun and friendship. Visit McPhillips Woodridge Street Station in the morning and Club Regent in the afternoon. Bingo - Every 2nd Sunday night at 7 pm. Starting at 8:30 am pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village. Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and Zhoda cash giveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from Fall Supper - On Sunday October 26 from 4 – 7 pm at the the casinos for those wishing to play. Contact Marilyn at 204Community Hall. Contact 204-425-3457. 326-4939 to reserve your seat.
Residents from the RM of Ritchot will get a chance to meet the men and women who protect their lives and property when the municipal fire department opens its doors for a public open house. The RM of Ritchot Fire Department is holding this year’s event on October 9 from 5:30 -7:30 pm at the St. Adolphe Fire Hall. There will be complimentary hot dogs and drinks and an opportunity for residents to check out the municipality’s growing fleet of emergency vehicles and personnel. Sparky and the Fire Safety Trailer will also be on-site.
Martin Harder, Mayor of Winkler, Michelle Lalonde, President, Tiber River Naturals and Vlad Pleskot, VP Express Inc. and star of History network’s ‘Ice Road Truckers’. Combined, the group raised over $200,000 in one day. Money raised from the event will go towards building a hanger for the province’s STARS helicopter. “STARS is a charitable organization that cares for and transports critically ill and injured patients,” Lemay added. STARS currently averages six missions per day across Western Canada. Each member of the group was challenged to raise $100,000 by collecting pledges through phone calls from the island to family and friends.
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More Than Just News!
October 2014
Limited Flood Claims After August Downpour Despite heavy rainfalls that flooded vehicles and homes in both communities of Niverville and Steinbach the Manitoba Emergency Measures Organizations (EMO) says they have received less than two dozen damage claims. On August 29, both communities received record amounts of rain in a short period of time, which caught many residents unaware. Residents were encouraged to file claims with EMO and to date only 22 have been received. The province is currently evaluating the situation to determine if a financial disaster assistance program will be established for this particular rainfall event. If established the program would cover losses that are not insurable, such flooding from overland water that entered homes through basement windows. EMO has also issued a notice to homeowners on hold to deal with flood damage. Persons directly impacted are encouraged to restore their home and property as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Homeowners are also encouraged to document damage with photos and video and to contact their insurance companies to determine their coverage. Applications for assistance are still being accepted.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Ste. Anne Honours Hometown Hockey Stars
Dawson Trail MLA Ron Lemiuex said a few words at the official sign unveiling.
By Marianne Curtis The community of Ste. Anne recently unveiled a new welcome sign to the community, which recognizes Bailey Bram and Jocelyne Larocque. Both women were members of the Canadian National Women’s Hockey Team. “It is pretty amazing and special to see a sign about yourself and a fellow team mate. This is a huge honour,” stated Olympic Gold Medalist Larocque upon seeing the sign unveiled. “The support and love we have received from our hometown has been amazing and I am very proud to be from Ste. Anne. Bram added that the sign shows how much the community has always had their backs.
Report Praises La Broquerie’s Fiscal Responsibility By Marianne Curtis With Manitoba’s municipal elections scheduled for October 22, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) released its inaugural Manitoba Municipal Spending Watch. The report discovered Manitoba’s 24 largest municipalities increased operating spending at three times the rate of sustainable spending growth, resulting in taxpayers paying $412 million more than needed to fund local governments. The RM of La Broquerie ranked as the best municipality for fiscal sustainability, recording a 17 percent decrease in real operating spending growth per capita. This decrease in operating spending was the best performance of any municipality. Residents of La Broquerie also had the lowest 2012 spending per capita at $499 per resident. RM of La Broquerie Reeve Claude Lussier said the municipality has worked hard over the past four years to cut costs and increase revenue, while keeping the books balanced. “We are trying to build our reserves for things like the La Broquerie arena and lagoon,” Lussier explained. “From a business point, we tried to maximize each dollar instead of spending it in a political fashion.” One of the ways the RM of La Broquerie has improved financial efficiency was to keep salaries the same or even decrease them. “We trimmed, reorganized and structured things differently by keeping a very efficient team,” Lussier continued. Council has also not increased indemnities for councillors. He added that council also developed a five to ten year plan that allowed the municipality to put money aside and prioritize projects. “We did not spend money blindly,” Lussier stated. The RM of Hanover made the list at third, with an increase of 4 %; the RM of Tache came in fourth, followed by Ritchot in sixth. The City of Steinbach made the list at number 10.
“It is pretty special and every time we come home, we see the support that we get from everyone,” Bram continued. “Everyone is always so proud and nice to us, so having this sign on top of all that is pretty amazing.” The sign will be erected at the west entrance of Ste. Anne along the Dawson Road. In her inaugural appearance as an Olympic athlete, Larocque will forever be remembered as Manitoba’s sole contribution to Team Canada’s Gold Medal winning hockey team during the Sochi Olympics this past winter. She will also be remembered for being the hockey player who scored the first goal, in the first period, of the first game of the series in her first Olympic
Bailey Bram and Jocelyne Larocque were both shocked and thrilled to see the new sign that will grace the entrance of Ste. Anne in their honour. Photos by Bill Delvecchio
appearance. At the end of the event, the women’s hockey team came home with gold medals. As members of Canadian National Women’s Hockey Team, Larocque and Bram helped Canada win gold at the 2012
World Women’s Hockey Championship in Burlington, Vermont where Canada beat the United States in overtime. In 2013, the duo had to settle for silver when the Americans edged the Canadians in Ottawa.
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
October 2014 Ste. Agathe CHAMP Becomes Mentor to Others 17
Locally Filmed Talk Show Begins New Season
Thirteen-year-old Kyle Nordick takes his role as a peer counsellor for other CHAMPS very seriously and he hopes to encourage other amputees to pursue their dreams and not allow themselves to be limited by their disabilities.
By Marianne Curtis
Marc and Mandy Show co-hosts Marc Atiyolil and Amanda MacLaren are looking for viewer participation when they launch their new talk show on Shaw TV from a studio in Blumenort.
By Marianne Curtis After years of planning and months of filming, the long awaited new season of the Marc and Mandy Show has finally hit the airwaves. Husband and wife team Marc Atiyolil and Amanda MacLaren co-host the 30-minute talk show from a newly built permanent studio located in Blumenort. On September 16 the first episode, complete with a studio audience filled with local residents, tackled the subject of how to host a dinner party. “The Marc and Mandy show has been a dream in the making for the last two years and we are proud to say that the audience members that have been coming to see the show all summer are now able to see themselves in an episode,” said Atiyolil. “We are very pleased with the feedback we have received and the amazing support from viewers so far and we are very excited for the future as plans continue to unfold.” The show’s new season is the third for the couple, however it is the first filmed locally. Initially, the show was supposed to be launched in April, but training staff, perfecting the studio layout and testing the equipment took longer than anticipated. “We felt it was important to make sure these things were taken care of properly from the beginning rather than rushing in without the proper preparations in place,” Atiyolil explained. “We have put a lot of work into building a state-of-the-art filming studio unlike anything else seen in southeastern Manitoba and we plan to continue to use these facilities for as long as possible.” Atiyolil said the show is an ongoing project and the plan is to continue filming indefinitely. “I think filming locally has been a blessing more than a challenge as we have been able to create something new and exciting for our audience members. Filming a lot of our stories with local people has allowed us to bring a fresh perspective to our viewers at home,” Atiyolil added. “With a new episode launched every week starting September 16, there will always be more episodes in the works and we have some very exciting episodes planned over the next few months.” To be part of the studio audience, or to view online episodes visit MarcandMandy.com.
Thirteen-year-old Kyle Nordick said it was a huge honour to be chosen as a junior counsellor for the War Amps 2014 Western Child Amputee Seminar in Winnipeg, which took place recently. Nordick, who was born with a congenital amputation, said, “It was pretty cool,’ to be chosen as a junior counsellor during the recent War Amps regional seminar. The three-day seminar brought other amputees from across western Canada and promoted the theme ‘Set the Bar High’. The seminar focused on the latest developments in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and bullying, and parenting an amputee child. “I was chosen to be a junior counsellor at the local seminar to help others support War Amps kids,” Nordick explained. Junior Counsellors represent War Amps and are considered wonderful role models for younger amputees as they too grow up within the program. “We are matched with other kids with similar amputations, and we show them what we can do, and encourage them to try things too.” At the seminar, child amputees (Champs) and their parents experience a wide range of interactive sessions. Many youngsters and parents meet other amputees and their parents for the first time, while others renew friendships with CHAMP families they met at previous seminars. “It is a great way to interact with other kids, make friends and support each other,” Nordick added. The grade 8 Ecole Ste. Agathe student said he is far from being limited despite being born with a portion of his left arm missing. “We teach others to never give up and to keep trying no matter how hard it is.” “Being a CHAMP has not limited me; I play hockey, volleyball and baseball,” he continued. “I have learned how to play these sports, even with an artificial arm. The possibilities are endless for me, and I want other kids to know that too.”
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October 2014
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Keystone Celebrates Grand Opening By Marianne Curtis On September 26, Keystone Western in Grande Pointe celebrated the grand opening of their new office space after investing $1 million to expand their current building. Keystone Western President and owner Norm Curtis said the expansion was needed to ensure that the company had room to Keystone Western President and owner Norm Curtis is proud of the company that he has built with the grow and expand. help of a dedicated team of employees. Photo by Marianne Curtis “This investment and expansion will allow us to continue to live up to our reputation of being on time and on budget,” Curtis said. “We needed to add on to our decimated during the flood of 97, Keystone Western became one of a handful of existing building because we were running businesses that remained in the community and prospered. “Our difference in the marketplace is out corporate culture, and customer out of space. With a 20 percent per year growth rate we needed the extra room to dedication,” continued Curtis. “Keystone is a very tight-knit family, from our management to shop workers, our dispatchers to our drivers. It’s our family attitude support this growth.” In addition to the expanded office space, that inspires our staff to excel every day.” The company is a full service trucking company that is well known for hauling the company also invested $5 million to purchase 40 new highway trucks to replace freight, such as ATVs, snowmobiles and golf carts on both sides of the border. Over a year ago, the company expanded into the US by establishing terminals in the entire fleet of company trucks. In addition, another $250,000 was spent to Minneapolis and Fargo. Curtis has been at the head of Keystone Western since 2003, when he purchased purchase 10 new trailers. Not including truck drivers, Keystone GBT Trucking. He changed the name to Keystone Western in 2007 and under his Western employs about 35 people from the leadership; the fleet has grown to include 60 owner operators and 40 company surrounding area. After Grand Pointe was drivers.
Fall’s Amazing Race Well ladies and gentlemen fall is officially upon us. If the words on the calendar reading ‘fall equinox’ weren’t enough, the drooping temperatures and the golden colours of the once-green leaves would surely be proof enough, add to that the fact that the children have gone back to school (mothers everywhere are high-fiving each other over that!) means we must have entered the fall season. While the summer has ended, or at least in its final throes, there is a positive thing that occurs each and every fall, the starting up of a brand new season of television. For me, this holds special interest because a new season of Amazing Race is beginning. This has to be one of the greatest shows to take part in. Just imagine that you are selected to compete! You are able to travel (race) around the world on someone else’s dime and see some amazing sights. Sure, you have to hurry but this still gives you a chance to see a great many sights that you’d most likely not see on a regular trip. The competitors often perform challenges and tasks at very cool locations. Now add that you are racing with a friend or a family member and the deal is all the sweeter. Sure, sooner or later someone starts yelling or complaining in each group but hey, that’s life. You don’t have to travel far to experience that in your everyday life, especially if you have children! “Mommy she’s staring at me! Mommy he’s poking me!” Now that they’ve created the Amazing Race Canada, it finally gives us Canucks a chance to show our stuff and if I may say, we show our stuff very well. Canadians, whether they’re at home or travelling abroad, seem to be a breed of people that treat others with respect and courtesy. It makes a man proud to see his country represented this way. It’s taking longer than I would’ve suspected and I’m not there yet, but I’m going to keep on working to convince my wife that her and I should apply to be on Amazing Race Canada. I think that it would be awesome to be amongst fellow Canadians racing across Canada and the world. While my wife isn’t really the competitive type, I think that she’d become infected with it once we got underway. How could she not when I’d be right there beside her, a bundle of competitive energy? I guess time will tell how successful I will be. Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.
Actif Epica Wins Event of the Year On September 26, Actif Epica was named the winner of the Event of the Year Award with a budget under $5,000 from Manitoba Tourism selected by an industry-based judging panel. Actif Epica is a self-organizing non-profit community festival, centred along the checkpoints of a corresponding 130 km human powered challenge spanning from St. Malo to St. Boniface. A majority of the challenge follows the historic Crow Wing Trail, which goes through the RM of De Saleberry, Town of Niverville and RM of Ritchot. The inaugural endurance challenge in 2012 attracted 32 racers and over a thousand co-event participants. Each year, Manitoba Tourism recognizes outstanding contributions to the provincial tourism industry, including promoting Manitoba as a destination, providing memorable service to visitors and developing the tourism industry. Winners received a trophy and the right to use the Manitoba Tourism Award symbol for advertising and promotion as well as promotion on Travel Manitoba’s website.
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
October 2014
Road Improvement Funding to Benefit Region By Marianne Curtis
eastern Manitoba,” said Dobrowolski. “Also, it allows Eleven towns and municipalities municipal governments to plan in the region will see significant ahead and begin working on additional infrastructure projects.” road improvement projects after being included in the nearly $3 The $3 million in approved projects is also expected to create million provincial investment for municipal roads. 50 new jobs and provide business for a number of local contractors, The Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) President including Centennial Gravel. Funding is being provided to Doug Dobrowolski said the program was developed and replace or repair more than 96 km of municipal roads in the eastern delivered in partnership with the AMM and will be funded through area. Ross Deschambault the Municipal Road Improvement confirmed that the RM of Tache is program. The program is expected receiving $243,000 for four road projects, including Rheault to provide a total of $50 million over five years to repair and renew Avenue in the LUD of Lorette. “Having access to a provincial municipal roads across the province. program such as this supports our “The AMM is pleased to be part local efforts to advance urban of the selection process because street renewal in Lorette and Landmark, as well as assist in our these infrastructure investments will have a direct impact on the rural road network upgrade,” said Deschambault. “This level of lives of citizens throughout
financial support from the province enables us to meet our infrastructure needs.” Dawson Trail MLA Ron Lemiuex said spending money on highways is crucial for the well-being of residents and communities. “Building better infrastructure, including highways and flood protection pays off,” said Lemieux. “Not only are we repairing roads, but we’re creating local jobs and benefiting rural economies in the process. We’re investing in Dawson Trail so that our families and businesses can continue to thrive.” Other approved projects include improvements along Road N and Loewen Blvd in the RM of La Broquerie, St. Labre Road in the RM of Piney, Kosman Blvd, D’Auteuil Drive, Keweriga Road and Arnould Road in RM of Ritchot.
Comparisons to Life in Denmark In the last three weeks of September, I was travelling in Denmark with my sister visiting family and exploring this beautiful small country of our parents. Denmark is very small, about the size of Vancouver Island. It is surrounded by water so the climate is very similar to Vancouver, not too hot, not too cold, lots of rain in the winter and sometimes snow but generally very mild. The Danes are very happy people, according to international surveys they are amongst the happiest people in the world. After talking with many relatives, it’s easy to understand why. This is a very socialistic country. Everyone is taken care of from birth to grave. They have high incomes, relative to most Canadians, but they also have high taxes; 25% sales tax on everything; income taxes are high; taxes on vehicles are extremely high, at 240%! Therefore, most Danes are living in the ‘middle class’ with good incomes and good lives. The Danes seem to be more active than Canadians are too. Everyone has a bicycle and many people in larger towns and cities ride their bikes to work, or to the metro trains or buses. Most families have only one small car (remember the taxes on cars is 240%. A $20,000 car costs $68,000! When we stayed in Copenhagen for a few days, the number of bicycles was unbelievable. Bike lanes are busier than the car lanes and with the fuel prices at $2.40 per litre, there are many reasons why a car is not used. Daycare in Denmark is widely available to all families with the cost completely based on income and there are many women who have
licensed day cares in their homes. My cousin is one of them. She is paid by the government based on the number and age of the kids in her home, she gets a good income and she gets five weeks of vacation every year. Many mothers work and they can get up to 18 months maternity leave. My sister and I noticed how hedges are used where we would use fences in Canada. Then we find out it is a regulation in Denmark that you cannot have fences, only hedges. It makes for beautiful yards and towns and so many more birds. Most family’s front and back yards are well taken care of with grass and lots of flowers and bushes. Certainly, with the mild climate, everything is easy to grow. Yet, Denmark is hurting economically. The high wages make it difficult to compete for manufacturing jobs with the rest of Europe (even Germany is less expensive for businesses). So, there are many people out of work and young people have difficulty finding work. The income you receive when you are not working in the form of employment insurance and social assistance is too good. Either the money is not enough incentive to try harder to get a job, or they will not take low paying jobs. Real estate is also very depressed there. There are many homes for sale and many cannot afford to buy them especially if they are out of work, or making less income. Also, foreigners cannot buy these homes. You need to live in Denmark at least two years before you can buy a home or a summer home. Danes want these restrictions to be softened so they can sell the homes.
There are interesting rules around the summerhouses (cottages). You cannot live in it year round as your home unless you have owned it at least eight years and you must be retired. There is some immigration from southern Europe (Turkey) and middle-eastern countries (Lebanon and now Syria). These people often do the work the Danes don’t want to do such as menial jobs like vegetable picking and home and office cleaning. The government needs to bring in more immigrants since the Danes are like Canadians in that they are not having enough children to increase the population enough. There was one peculiar custom that made me cock my head. At the cemeteries, when a family member has died, the plot and headstone is paid for with a lump sum that is good for 20 years. If you do not continue to pay after 20 years, the headstone is removed, the name shaved off to be reused and the plot is now available for a newly deceased person. I’m not sure I agree with this, but the Danes think this is not strange – it is quite normal. So why did my father leave Denmark to come to Canada in 1951? Because he was out of work and heard there were jobs in Canada. I wonder how my life would be if he and my mother had stayed in Denmark? Anni Markmann is a tax professional working, living, and volunteering in our community. Contact Anni at 204-422-6631 or anni@SteAnneTaxService.ca or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne.
Also on the list are the old Highway #12, in the RM of Ste. Anne, Purple Bank Road 6N and Main Street N in the RM of Stuartburn, Tetrault Drive and Gauthier Road in the RM of De Salaberry, Bristol Road and Harms Road in the RM of Hanover. The Village of St. Pierre-Jolys will get funds to improve Lavoie Avenue, St. Marie Avenue and Hebert Avenue, the Town of St. Anne for Laverendrye Avenue and L’Eglise and the City of Steinbach for South Park Drive, Chaddington Bay, Arnold Street and Kroeker Avenue.
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Construction Begins on New Ambulance Station By Marianne Curtis Residents in several communities will soon see an improvement in emergency medical response now that construction of a new ambulance garage in Ile-des-Chênes has started. On September 4, members of the Southern Health Board of Directors and various levels of government were on hand to officially kick off the project with an official sod turning. The project will see the construction of a new 2,000 square foot facility in Ile-des-Chênes. The new building, located on the same property as the RM of Ritchot fire hall, will consist of crew offices and include overnight facilities for EMS workers including washrooms and showers. Kathy McPhail, Chief Executive Officer, Southern Health-Santé Sud is pleased to see the project underway. “This investment will enhance services for residents and paramedics and presents renewed infrastructure in the community,” said McPhail. “This will allow us to improve response times while using our resources more efficiently.” Ron Lemieux, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection said this new ambulance station is expected to provide additional support resulting in more consistent response times, especially in rural areas. “This investment improves access to emergency services and brings them closer to home, which is so important to families living in these communities,” added Lemieux. He noted that the median provincial EMS response time in rural Manitoba has significantly decreased to 12 minutes per call from 16 minutes per call in 2011. The new facility is situated to benefit residents living in a number of communities south of Winnipeg, including Ile-des-Chênes, Lorette, Niverville and New Bothwell. Currently these communities receive emergency services from either Ste. Anne or St. Pierre-Jolys. The new ambulance station is expected to be completed in 2015.
(l-r) RM of Ritchot Councillor Ernie Dumaine, RM of Ritchot Mayor Bob Stefaniuk, Minister of Minister of Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection Ron Lemieux, Southern Health CEO Kathy McPhail, Southern Health Chairperson Guy Levesque, Southern Health Executive Director Cheryl Harrison and EMS Regional Director Scott Nobel officially turn the sod for a new ambulance station in Ile-desChênes.
Bethesda Auxiliary’s Big Fall Book Sale By Marianne Curtis Raising funds to renovate and furnish a family room in Bethesda Hospital is at the top of this year’s funding list as the Bethesda Hospital Health Care Auxiliary prepares to hold their annual fall book fair. Bethesda Hospital Health Care Auxiliary VicePresident Verna Thiessen is optimistic that the upcoming book sale will raise a significant portion of funds towards their current project. “We are redoing a room at the hospital, that will be called the Chrysalis Room, which will be used by families faced with a terminal diagnosis,” Thiessen explained. “This will be a room where a family can go to deal with a terminal diagnosis in private, either to talk or make crucial decisions.” Thiessen said the room would be called the Chrysalis Room because the chrysalis or the hard shell that a caterpillar encases itself in before becoming a butterfly symbolizes rebirth. “Many families are faced with making tough decisions when it comes to going from one stage of life to the next,” Thiessen continued. “It is important they can do this in a place where they can find peace.” The Bethesda Hospital Health Care Auxiliary expects to spend about $30,000 for furnishings and other fixtures that will make the room suitable for this use. To assist with this project, the volunteers are hosting their fall book sale at the Clearspring Centre from October 16 to October 18. Donations of books are still being collected at the Clearspring Center on Tuesday’s from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm at the inside drop-off location by Sobey’s. A .50-cent book sale is also taking place during this time, to get rid of excess books that may not be suitable for the actual sale. Volunteers are still needed and anyone wishing to help with the book sale is invited to contact Verna Thiessen at 204-326-3028.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
October 2014
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Carillon Toastmasters Celebrate 35 Years of Speaking
Sheryl Berglund, Public Relations Officer for the Carillon Toastmasters, presented an entertaining after dinner talk during the annual Toastmasters celebration.
By Marianne Curtis In the middle of September, the Carillon Toastmasters celebrated their 35th anniversary with a special celebration in St. Anne at Club Jovial.
According to Past President Irene Toews, Toastmasters has played an important role to members over the years. “It is often said that the fear of public speaking is second only to death for many people, so it is
The event was made even more special by the attendance of Al Hamm, Ron Joyce, Marlene Silinski and Sylvia Nilsson-Barkman, who are four of the original twenty charter members. “They were instrumental in organizing the Carillon Toastmasters Club,” Toews continued. “We are appreciative of their hard work and that they were able to attend the celebration.” The Carillon Toastmasters Club has a current membership of 28 who meet weekly at the Jake Epp understandable that it often takes Library in Steinbach. At present, the Carillon club has members a person considerable time to muster up the courage to walk into attending from Buffalo Point, St. Malo, Grunthal, Otterburne, New a meeting and face their fears but Bothwell, La Broquerie, Lorette seldom, if ever, does anyone ever and Steinbach. regret the decision!” Toews Nilsson-Barkman explained the exclaimed. history of the Carillon Club including why the name ‘Carillon’ was chosen. According to Nilsson-Barkman from 1866 until 1969, a constituency known as the Carillon Constituency included Steinbach and the Rural Municipalities of La Broquerie, Hanover and DeSalabery, hence the name. Two other clubs exist in the southeast rural area, the Crow Wing Club in Niverville, and Links to Leadership Toastmasters, a corporate sponsored club at Valeant Pharmaceuticals
Richert Survives Extreme Rain for Strong Finish
Before returning to the track, David Richert discusses the rain with his engineer, Jorg Kranzfelder.
by Marianne Curtis Niverville racecar driver David Richert survived a deluge of rain and was able to deliver a strong 5th place result in his last scheduled race. In addition, Richert managed to bring home a trophy as the only driver that successfully completed the race in the Interserie category when he finished the ESET Cup Renault Race on the second weekend of September. From the moment cars took to the track on September 11, rain hammered Automotodrom Brno in the Czech Republic as over two inches of rain kept the drivers on their toes throughout the entire weekend. “It’s amazing how much grip these cars can have in such wet conditions, it’s only once you end up backwards and out of control that you realize just how quickly you’re actually going,” said Richert. When the rain did finally break for a few moments prior to Sunday’s race, it simply added chaos to the situation as teams and drivers were left scrambling trying to decide on whether to use rain or dry weather tires. Richert said he opted to start the race on rain tires and, “Ended up tiptoeing,” around a drying Brno Circuit for the first half of the race before the gamble paid off and the rain again began to pour down for the last half of the race. With just two laps to go, Richert managed to overtake Czech driver Jaroslav Pospisil for 5th position. “I am very happy to finish with a decent result and it’s always nice to leave a race event with a trophy,” Richert added. “My top priority was to learn as much as possible under these conditions and get a good result, but also to make sure I didn’t take any unnecessary risks at this point in the season.” This was Richert’s last scheduled race with the Inter Europol Competition.
International, Inc. in Steinbach. The Toastmasters Club is one of 14,650 clubs located around the world with over 313,000 toastmaster members in 126 countries.
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
Sutherland Launches Bid for Dawson Trail PC Nod By Marianne Curtis A Landmark man is the first Dawson Trail resident to step forward and announce his intent to seek the Tory nomination in the upcoming provincial election. On September 18, David Sutherland was joined by a few dozen supporters during a fundraising barbecue to raise money for his upcoming nomination bid. “My experience in life and business tells me that my focus is to convince the voters that I am the best person to do the job as a nominated candidate as they see fit,” stated Sutherland. “The other competitors for the candidacy have the same job and it is up to them to accomplish that.” Sutherland says that he has a lot to offer Dawson Trail. “I offer to the voters of Dawson Trail ten years of municipal political experience, lifelong learning experiences, business experiences, self employed and employee experiences,” Sutherland continued. “I believe that my experiences, combined with my willingness to go the extra mile, willingness to do all the homework and to present that with passion, will serve the people of Dawson Trail greatly.” The major issues that Sutherland continually runs into at constituent’s doors are the PST hike, Bi-pole III, Wisconsin Project, and speeding in construction zones. According to Sutherland, the party has indicated that they would like to have the nomination meeting in Dawson Trail in December; however, it may come in the spring as Brian Pallister said he would like to have all ridings with a nominated candidate by spring 2015. In the meantime, Sutherland is gearing up for the campaign by hosting a fundraising event on October 24 in the Landmark Kinsmen Hall. The next provincial election is expected to take place October 2015, but could be pushed back until April 2016, if the government is successful in its bid to change the date. The province is in the process of passing legislation to change the next provincial election date because the next federal election is also expected to take place in October 2015. Landmark resident David Sutherland is looking for support as he makes a bid for the PC nomination for Dawson Trail.
Ile-des-Chênes Company Launches Photo Sharing App compressed,” added Scott Ridell. “It’s really different from a lot of stuff that’s out there.” The company also makes add-ons or widgets they call apps for the world’s largest e-commerce software company Shopify. BOLD was started by four friends in a basement in Winnipeg about two years ago. Now, the firm has 32 employees and plans to double that by the end of 2014. The growing company is now located on the second floor of the Trans-Canada Centre in Ile-des-Chênes. On September 17, Ile-des-Chênes based BOLD Innovation Group launched a photo-sharing app that will make it a lot easier to share high-resolution photos with family and friends. Instead of the small, filtered versions seen on Instagram or the low-quality images on Facebook, the new web application called Picticipate lets people share a ton of photos from a major event with all their loved ones “It’s not like Facebook; it’s not about showing off. It’s about actually sharing,” said Stefan Maynard, one of BOLD’s founders. The app lets users upload pictures into the app and friends can come and download the hi-resolution versions for themselves. The iPhone and Android apps are not yet available, but there is a mobile version for now. “It’s an online photo-sharing application and website and the purpose of it is really to actually share the photos and video files in their original formats; high resolution, without being
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
October 2014
Home improvement projects perfect for fall Home improvement projects can add value to a home and do-it-yourselfers know the sweat-equity that goes into such projects can give homeowners a greater sense of pride in their homes. But no two home improvement projects are the same, and homeowners should know that certain projects are best tackled during certain times of the year. Fall is a great season to work on your house, as the weather is often at its most
agreeable once the summer heat has gone and before winter weather arrives. The following are a handful of fallfriendly home improvement projects for homeowners looking to improve their homes. Roof repair Whether you’re repairing or replacing the roof, fall is a great time of year to dust off the ladder and get some work done on your roof for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, fall is ideal for roof work because you won’t have to be up on the roof with the summer heat bearing down on you. This can make the project move along more quickly, which is especially beneficial if you are paying laborers to work on the roof. The fewer hours workers are fixing your roof, the less you will be paying in labor costs. In addition, fixing up the roof in the fall ensures those winter storms, be it rain or snow, won’t find their way into your home via leaks. A leaky roof in winter is hard to fix, as the roof surface could be treacherous in the winter and winter winds can make it dangerous to be up on the roof at all. Addressing leaks in the fall can prevent damage to Fall is an ideal time of year to tackle home painting projects. your home’s interior, which can mount up if a leaky roof is not addressed until the following spring. Window work When the weather outside gets frightful, poorly insulated windows can allow cold air into the home. That often has a trickle-down effect on finances, forcing you to turn up the thermostat in an attempt to offset the cold air pouring into the home. Whether you need your windows replaced or simply need to patch up any leaks, a proactive approach to leaky or older windows in the fall can save you from unnecessarily high heating bills come the winter. Addressing leaky windows also makes a home more comfortable for its inhabitants. Fall is the ideal time to address a home’s windows because the temperature outside tends to be pleasant. This means you likely won’t have to make much of an effort to offset the elements, and open windows in the fall won’t make your home’s interior very hot or cold like they might if you were to tackle the project during the summer or winter. Fixing the floors Wood flooring is a hot commodity for many homeowners. But not all flooring can be added to a home at any time of year. That’s because certain types of flooring employ adhesives that need temperatures inside the home to be within a certain range, and that range is often within 70o to 80o F, which makes fall a great time to install such floors. Colder temperatures can make it difficult for the flooring to dry and bond, which will prove problematic down the road. What’s more, many people entertain friends and family come late fall and into the holiday season, and it can be difficult to do so if you are busy installing new flooring. Painting projects Painting is another home improvement project that seems tailormade for fall. A fresh coat of paint or a new color scheme around the house can give a home an entirely new look and feel. But paint can be pungent and the aromas may last if it’s applied at a time of year when it can’t dry while the windows are wide open. Paint fumes inside a home can make the home uninhabitable, but painting at a time of year like the fall, when you can keep the windows open during and after the project, can help air the home out. But interior painting isn’t the only painting project homeowners can tackle in the fall. Many exterior paints are temperature-sensitive and need the temperature outside to be above 40o F. Paint that freezes won’t dry properly, and homeowners might be left with a costly and unsightly mistake on their hands. Fall temperatures tend to be amenable to both interior and exterior painting projects, just be sure to check the weather forecast before making your first brush stroke.
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Make home projects a family affair Tackling home improvement projects with kids in tow can be challenging. But if kids are old enough, moms and dads can enlist their youngsters’ help when working on projects around the house. Not only can adults keep closer tabs on kids’ activities, but involving kids in home projects also lets parents instill important and practical lessons at the same time. When asked to pitch in on home projects, young kids may feel proud they can lend a hand with such a “grown-up” task. With the right instruction, children of all ages can get involved with fix-up projects and learn new skills in the process. * Include children from the start. When beginning a project, parents can make their kids a part of the design and planning process, welcoming the input of younger members of the family, especially if renovations will impact spaces they use directly. Draft a list of supplies and ask questions of the kids regarding what supplies they think will have to go into completing the project. * Shop as a family. Although it may slow you down, take children along to the home improvement store so you can purchase supplies together. Let youngsters help you as you choose materials for the project. This way they can see how the raw materials will turn into the finished renovation. * Emphasize safety. Children should understand that tools serve a distinct purpose and that they are not toys. Identify and explain the dangerous pieces of equipment and instruct children that they should not touch or turn on tools without an adult nearby. Go over the proper ways to handle the tools and explain the purposes of each device. Make sure everyone is wearing safety equipment, including eye protection, gloves and ear protection, while handing the tools. * Demonstrate and then let kids try. Children will not have the skills to perform more intricate tasks, but older kids can hammer some nails, mix paint or even cut wood with supervision. Assign tasks based on the child’s age. For example, a preteen may be able to saw wood, while a kindergartener can hand over nails and tools. Illustrate the correct way to get things done and then have children mirror your actions. * Attempt an easy project first. Painting a room, building a planter box, or another less complicated project can help parents gauge their kids’ abilities. Involving children in home improvement projects can teach then new skills, give them a greater appreciation of the work that goes into maintaining a house, instill a sense of pride in youngsters, and provide a great chance for kids and their parents to spend quality together.
Fire Prevention Week - Are You Wired for Safety? Take time to check your home for signs of electrical wiring hazards during national fire prevention week from October 5 –11. These could include: - Circuit breakers tripping frequently. - Fuses needing constant repair. - Flickering or dim lights. - Switch plate or receptacle covers that are hot to the touch or discoloured. - The smell of hot insulation. - Receiving electrical shocks, even something as mild as a tingle. - Cut, broken or damaged wire insulation. If your home shows any of these signs, hire a qualified electrical contractor to inspect and upgrade your home wiring system to help prevent fires. Use electricity safely throughout your home by following these simple rules: - Don’t overload outlets with too many plugs. Overloaded circuits are a major cause of electrical fires. - Ensure all cords are in good working condition and replace damaged cords. - Make sure the cord is adequate for the job. - Don’t run cords under carpets or other obstructions because they could become damaged or overheated.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
October 2014
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Winterize to safeguard your home from harsh weather Autumn is a beautiful time of year marked by welcoming cooler temperatures and the natural beauty of leaves changing colors. Autumn also has a tendency to fly by, as if the powerful weather of winter simply cannot wait to make its presence felt. With such a seemingly short time between the end of summer and the dawn of winter, homeowners know they don’t have too many weekends in between to prepare their homes for the potentially harsh months ahead. But such preparation, often referred to as “winterizing,” can make a home more comfortable when the mercury dips below freezing, while saving homeowners substantial amounts of money along the way. * Clean the gutters. Leaves falling in fall can be a beautiful sight to behold, but many of those leaves are likely finding their way into your gutters, where they can lodge and cause a host of problems down the road. If the leaves and additional debris, such as twigs and dirt, that pile up in your gutters are not cleared out before the first winter storm, the results can be costly and even catastrophic. Winter rain and snowfall needs a place to go upon hitting your roof, and gutters facilitate the travel of such precipitation from your roof into street-level drainage systems. If gutters are backed up with leaves and other debris, then ice dams may form, forcing water to seep in through the roof. That damage can be costly and can even cause the roof to collapse inward in areas with heavy snowfall. Clean gutters throughout the fall, especially if your property has many trees, and be sure to check gutters one last time before the arrival of winter. * Tend to your attic. Homeowners who have attics in their homes might want to add some extra insulation up there, especially those who recall feeling cold inside their homes last winter, which is often a telltale sign of improper insulation in a home. A good rule of thumb when determining if
your attic needs more insulation is to look for the ceiling joists. If you can see the joists, then you need more insulation. * Address leaky windows and doors. Sometimes attic insulation is not the culprit when it comes to a cold home. Oftentimes, leaky windows and doors are the real bad guys in a drafty home. Fall is a great time to inspect for leaky windows and doors, as the wind outside can serve as your partner. When the wind outside is blowing, take a tour of your home’s windows and doorways, standing next to them to determine if there any holes or leaks that are letting outdoor air inside. If you notice any leaks beneath exterior doors, install some door sweeps to keep outdoor air where it belongs. Leaks around windows can be snuffed out with caulk or weather stripping. * Test the furnace. Homeowners typically do not devote much thought to their furnaces in spring, summer and fall. But with winter on the horizon, fall is the time to test the furnace to make sure it’s ready for the months ahead. Expect a somewhat foul yet brief odor to appear when starting the furnace. That odor should dissipate shortly, but if it does not go away, then your furnace is likely in need of repair. But even if the smell does not stick around, you might want to have the furnace cleaned by a professional anyway. Such cleanings ensure the furnace works efficiently throughout the winter. * Clean the garage. You might not mind parking in the driveway during the warmer months of the year, but why subject your vehicles to harsh winter weather if you don’t have to? Clean the garage in the fall so you have an indoor parking spot throughout the winter season. Protecting your car from the elements can add years to its life and also saves you the trouble of digging your car out of the snow. Fall is a time of year for homeowners to spend a weekend or two preparing their homes for the often harsh weather that awaits when winter arrives. Cleaning gutters in the fall can prevent roof damage resulting from winter rains and snowfall.
Fall chimney cleaning tips Homeowners whose homes have fireplaces understand that a little more maintenance goes into autumn prep work for their homes than for those homeowners without fireplaces. Readying the fireplace for another season of use requires some upkeep. A clean fireplace and chimney is the best defense against hazardous conditions that can cause a chimney or home fire. For those who did not clean their chimneys in the spring after extensive winter use, it is imperative to handle cleaning prior to lighting your first fire in the coming winter. Chimney cleaning can be a do-it-yourself job. Rods and brushes can cost as much as $150,
depending on where you live. That is roughly equivalent to the cost of hiring a professional chimney sweep once. But if you have a fear of heights or prefer not to climb up on the roof to inspect the chimney, you may just want to hire a professional. When cleaning your chimney, first place plastic sheeting in the fireplace and around the opening to the fireplace inside the home. Then climb up on the roof and remove the chimney cap inspecting the chimney for soot and creosote, which tends to be thickest at the mouth of the chimney where it will cool and stick to the inside of the masonry. Use the correct size brush for your chimney to make adequate surface contact to sweep out the debris. Go inside and clean up the residual mess, then reach up into the chimney from the fireplace side and remove any other soot before moving into the basement (or wherever the chimney reaches the bottom) to remove any soot that has dropped from that area as well. Cleaning a chimney is a messy task that will take some work, but it is a task that needs to be done to safeguard a home before the arrival of winter.
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More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Skyrocketing Bipole III Cost Just Another Insult Steinbach MLA, Kelvin Goertzen, said the acknowledgement that the Bipole III hydro transmission line has now doubled in price to $4.6 billion is a further insult to the residents of the southeast and to all Manitobans who will be forced to pay for this boondoggle for years to come. “When the NDP forced Hydro to build this transmission line on almost the longest route imaginable, it tried to tell Manitobans it wouldn’t cost much more than if it were built
on the much shorter eastern route that Hydro preferred,” said Goertzen. “The fact that they are now admitting the costs have more than doubled and will be nearly $5 billion isn’t a surprise to anyone, but it sure is an insult to all of us.” Ever since the NDP announced they were directing Manitoba Hydro to build Bipole III on the west side of Lake Winnipeg instead of the shorter east side route, former Hydro Executives and former provincial Premier’s have indicated the 1,384 kilometre line would be a financial drain to Manitobans. “In 2005 Hydro proposed an eastern route for Bipole III that would have cost about $1 billion but was rejected by Greg Selinger and the NDP government. The fact that the new line will end up costing nearly $5 billion means that money won’t be available to fix roads, build hospitals, build schools or pay down the debt. It really is a boondoggle that keeps getting worse and worse,” said Goertzen. The current route of Bipole III will see it cross the northern part of Manitoba, travel south near the Saskatchewan border, come back east across the southern part of Manitoba and through the southeast. “The line isn’t just going to have a negative impact on farmers and residents whose land is impacted, it will have a negative impact on every Manitoban now and in the future who will be paying for it. It was a decision that made no sense when it was made and it makes no sense now,” said Goertzen.
Land Purchase Hearing Rescheduled The RM of Ritchot has rescheduled a public hearing that could allow the municipality to purchase a property adjacent to the municipal office in St. Adolphe. According to council, the municipality is planning to purchase the former Brodeur Frere Ltd. property along Main Street. A hearing must be held because the purchase funding has not been approved as part of the municipal budget and the council plans to transfer $600,000 from the general budget for the purchase. The RM of Ritchot has not disclosed why they plan to purchase the property. However, it cannot be done without a public hearing. A public hearing was slated for the middle of September but it was rescheduled due to ‘publication issues’. The public hearing has been rescheduled to take place at the RM of Ritchot Municipal Chambers on Tuesday, October 7 at 7 pm and anyone wishing to speak on the matter can do so at that time.
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
October 2014
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Steinbach Coach Earns Award & Bursary
Kerry Friesen receives the Silvio Sboto Memorial Rural Coach Award from Sheldon Reynolds at a special event held at the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame.
A coach from Steinbach was one of twenty-six athletes and coaches recently presented with a sports bursary from Sport Manitoba. On September 23, Kerry Friesen from Steinbach was presented with the Silvio Sboto Memorial Rural Coach Award for his work as a basketball and football coach. Friesen is in his second year of studies at the University of Manitoba where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Physical Education degree. The former Steinbach Regional Secondary School student has been coaching for the last three years and is a NCCP Certified Coach. He currently coaches the Steinbach Christian High School Varsity Boys Basketball Team. His goal is to develop the young men he coaches into athletes who grow in character and give back to the community. Sport Manitoba is a not for profit organization and the lead planning, programming and funding agency for the development of amateur sport in Manitoba. The Silvio Sboto Memorial Award is given in memory of Silvio Sboto who worked for the last thirty years at the Seikeikan Judo Club. Silvio was the Chair of the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) for Judo Canada and spent 10 years as an NCCP Theory Course Conductor attaining Level 4 NCCP status. He also had his 5th degree black belt and was a national ‘C’ referee in Judo.
Richer Again Earns Rodeo of the Year By Marianne Curtis For the second year in a row, the Richer Rough Stock Rodeo has claimed the coveted Heartland Rodeo Association’s title of Rodeo of the Year. Pat Stolwyk, with the Richer Community Club and co-chair of the Rodeo Committee is thrilled that the Heartland Rodeo Association once again named the event Rodeo of the Year. “We are grateful to everyone who came out and made this year’s rodeo a big success,” said Stolwyk. “We had an amazing group of volunteers who worked tirelessly at turning the Richer Park into a rodeo site. This could not have happened without the hard work of the entire community.” Last year several thousand people attended the first Richer Rough Stock Rodeo over the weekend. This year’s event exceeded those expectations as close to 6,000 people came through the gate. “It just shows you how our volunteers, the community and our sponsors can come together and put on a fantastic performance,” added Dawson Trail Dispatch editor Dan Guetre, who sponsored and helped organize the event. “We have big plans for 2015!” This year’s Richer Rough Stock Rodeo attracted over 200 competitors in bull riding, tie-down roping, team roping, barrel racing, steer wrestling and saddle bronco. The addition of tons of activities for the entire family, including a trade show with over 60 unique vendors, kids’ activities and live music added to the success of the weekend. The hard work of volunteers from Richer Community Club earned a second Rodeo of the Year award for the Richer Rough Stock Rodeo. Photo by Marianne Curtis
Winnipeg Man Drowns in St. Malo A 49-year-old Winnipeg man drowned Friday night at St. Malo Provincial Park, the second drowning death there in as many months. St Pierre-Jolys RCMP and local emergency services responded to a report of a possible drowning at about 7:49 p.m. September 26. RCMP stated that the man, who was not a swimmer, became distressed in the lake and efforts to locate him were unsuccessful. The RMCP underwater recovery team was called in and the victim’s body was recovered from the lake the next morning. The Medical Examiner Office is assisting St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP in the investigation and no foul play is suspected at this point.
This is the second drowning death in St. Malo Provincial Park this summer. On August 9, nineteen-year-old Calvin Dueck from Rosenort died after becoming distressed. After his father suggested that seaweed was a contributing factor in his death, the province racked the lake and cleaned up the problem. The RCMP has issued a statement saying that the St. Malo Provincial Park beach is closed for the season and the safety line marking the deeper water has been removed.
Investigation Continues on Multiple Thefts from Motor Vehicles On September 5, St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP received numerous
complaints of thefts from motor vehicles in the Town of Niverville as well as the Village of Ile-DesChênes. Many of the vehicles were left unlocked and contained valuables that were stolen. In Niverville, a pickup truck was also stolen, but was later located in the community by the RCMP. RCMP is reminding everyone to take the extra step to protect their belongings by not leaving an open invitation for thieves and secure their vehicle. The investigation continues and RCMP are asking anyone with information to contact the StPierre-Jolys RCMP at 204- 4337908 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, submit a secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com or text ‘TIPMAN’ plus your message to CRIMES (274637).
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
Why Lord, Why Seniors have a great time sipping coffee and reminiscing by saying, “We did this, we did that and on and on,” day after day. It is kind of fun and perhaps even helpful in this thing ‘called growing old quietly’, ‘or growing old with a tender spirit’. Still all at once, the conversion will change and we look at each other and ask the question, “Why?” Why all the pain and suffering. Everything hurts and what does not hurt does not work anymore. Then we question why people hurt each other. Why is there so much hatred in the world? Why must innocent bystanders suffer because of all the bad things other people do? Why does God not just rid the world of everything that is sinful and evil? To ask ‘why’ can be a powerful question. Why, does not always have an easy or even a good answer. Why, creates a real problem for us at times because either we cannot or we do not want to understand what the ‘cause’ part of the question is. Consider for a moment, if God were to rid this world of all things that were evil or sinful, God would have to get rid of you and me. We have all done things that were not right. We have said things to people that were hurtful, we have been known to say things that were not true and we have even gone as far as saying things about other people that perhaps slandered their good name. The Bible labels all these behaviours sin. Sin is defined as anything that is contrary to the will of God. In short, we have all sinned. In fact, the Bible says, “For all of us have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23 NIV) That is our problem with the ‘cause’ part of the question. Another thing! God has created all of us with the freedom to choose. When He created humanity, He placed into the heart of every man and every woman a soul; we are not mindless machines. He gave us the ability to choose between right and wrong, good and evil. Can you imagine what life would be like if we did not have the freedom of choice? Life would not be worth a whole lot, would it? Our lives have purpose and our choices determine whether we fulfill that purpose. God really has not dealt with us according to our sinful, fallen nature. He has in fact, provided a Saviour for us. He sent His only Son Jesus Christ into this world to suffer along with us because sin had turned this world into a murky swamp. Jesus came into this world and faced temptation in every way we do. He suffered cruel treatment and finally He was nailed to a cruel cross, all for us. Christ endured the effects of this sinful world to a greater degree than any of us ever could. He knows and feels the hurts we do. Yet, He also knows how to comfort us. I suppose the hardest thing for us to understand is the ‘why’ of everything. I have seen people rise up in rebellion against God when they are seriously sick, when they are facing eternity. There are times when it is hard to believe that God is really good when we have to watch our loved ones suffer so much. But, it is at this point, where we must choose to trust Christ. We have the power of choice, either to commit ourselves totally to His will or to reject him. Sometimes that is a difficult task indeed. How anyone can endure the pain and suffering in this world without a faith in God is hard for me to understand. Somehow, I cannot comprehend that thought. It is not possible for me to believe that there is nothing beyond the grave. I cannot accept that. If that were so, life then would be absolutely hopeless. But if we have accepted Christ as our Saviour, then life truly has meaning. In Christ, even the most hopeless situation can have meaning. If we have a living, faith in Christ He will give us the grace to endure suffering. He will infuse an attitude of praise and worship deep within our heart. This attitude of praise and worship will bring confirmation that life is not hopeless but full of joy... To God Be the Glory. Would you pray this prayer with me, “Lord Jesus, come into my heart. Forgive my sins. I want my life to change. My thoughts and my attitude need to change. I don’t have peace in my heart, I really want that peace, joy and happiness that I long for. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will bring honour to Your Name.” Amen.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
October 2014
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Does the God of Heaven have an earthly temple like other religions? There is no shortage of temples around the world. I have been to India and Sri Lanka and witnessed elaborate temples in honour of the hundreds of gods they worship in the Hindu religion. I have toured through a Muslim temple in Jerusalem with its entire fancy architectural splendor and witnessed the Bhai temple near Mt. Carmel in Israel with its spectacular golden roof structure. I have also toured several beautiful elaborate ornate Catholic churches and marvel at the labour and cost it must have taken to build them. What about a temple today for the God of Heaven to dwell in? Yes, God does have a temple today. But God’s temple is not a building made by human hands. God’s temple is found in the bodies of true believing Christians. I Corinthians 3:16 says, “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” During Old Testament times, before Christ, God did dwell in a building made by hands. While the Israelites were traveling in the wilderness, God dwelled in the Holy of Holies, the inner part of the Tabernacle. Later, Solomon built a temple for Israel and God dwelled in the Holy of Holies there. When Jesus Christ was here on earth, He told His disciples that the dwelling place of God was about to change. Christ said God was going to send a Comforter (the Holy Spirit). John 14:17 says, “Even the Spirit of Truth whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him; but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you and shall be in you.” So, after Jesus Christ died at Calvary, God’s Temple changed from a man-made building to the man, himself. When a person recognizes their sin before God and realizes the only way to be right with God is to accept God’s remedy for that sin (Jesus Christ) and they confess their sin before God and trust the blood of Jesus Christ to cleanse them and save them; then they become a Christian. At this moment, God, in the form of His Holy Spirit, enters his body and he becomes the Temple of God. God is omnipresent, so He can be present in every believer, world-wide, all at the same time. Romans 8:9 says, “…Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ (God), he is none of his.” So, until a person has the Spirit of God inside them, they are not God’s child. Do you have the Spirit of God inside you today? If you have the Spirit of God in you then I Corinthians, 6:20 says we should, “Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” Once you become a Christian, your body now belongs to God and it’s not yours anymore. Therefore we should be careful what we put in it and on it and what we let it be used for. This is an awesome responsibility that most Christians fail to take into consideration when making daily decisions on what to do or not do. However, it’s also a great privilege to serve the God of Heaven and know He is with you to comfort, strengthen and encourage you through the rest of your life. If you are not the temple of God yet, consider making your body God’s temple soon. That is a decision you will never regret. God bless you as you seek Him!
Compost Available in Steinbach As a result of considerable use of the community compost depots this past year, the City’s Solid Waste Department is pleased to offer a high quality compost product back to the public free of charge. According to Solid Waste Department Head Eldon Wallman, residents of Steinbach and area have been diligently bringing their compostable kitchen, yard and garden waste to one of three depots in the city during the spring and summer months over the past few years. “This material is then composted and screened at the Steinbach Landfill every year and used in the City’s parks and gardens, as well as made available to the public at no charge in the fall,” Wallman explained. “We now have finished compost available for pickup at the Steinbach Landfill.” Members of the public are welcome to come pick up a load of compost at no charge. Those picking up material are responsible for loading and transporting any compost material. “Residents can check in at the scale station when you arrive and ask where you can pick up the free compost,” Wallman added. Approximately 45 per cent of the waste in the Steinbach Landfill is compostable material. For further information on winter composting and composting in general visit compost.org or greenactioncentre.ca.
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More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Hundreds Attend
Imagine
Run in Niverville By Marianne Curtis
Above: About 1,200 people came out to attend this year’s Imagine Run, in Niverville. Below: There were a number of booths set up that provided a variety of information on mental health.
Recycling Drops in Piney The RM of Piney has seen a decrease in recycling this year and the municipality hopes that this is just a temporary situation. According to council, recycling has dropped increasingly low compared to the last couple of years. From January to June 2014, only 47,484.2 kg’s of recycling were received at the three waste disposal sites in the RM, compared to the 60,536 kg’s of recycling that were received from January to June in 2013. “We cannot stress enough the importance recycling has on the environment as well as on the municipality as a whole,” stated council. “If the amount of recycling does not improve, the end result could lead to more dump closures within the RM Site as well as within each community in the municipality. and increased costs.” “It may just be the one item you don’t feel like recycling, but each The RM of Piney has recycling recyclable item you throw in household garbage leads us one step sheds at each Waste Disposal closer to a change in how we manage our waste,” noted council.
Hundreds of people came out to Niverville on September 27 to participate in this year’s Imagine Mental Health Run’s first “dusk to dark” event. The annual event is organized annually by Jeff and Mona Stott, in memory of their son Joey who committed suicide seven years ago. “I needed something to help me get out of the dark spot that I was in after my son’s death,” stated Mona. “We always make this a family event because we want families to come together so that everyone feels supported.” This year’s event saw 800 participants and over 1,200 people converge on Hespler Park, where they were set up to raise awareness of mental illness. Stott says changing the format to an evening event was a learning curve, but added to the success. There were tons of activities for children, live entertainment and the event was capped off with fireworks. “The layout was different, but we will definitely be sticking to this format,” Stott added. “It is exciting to watch this event evolve.”
Dawson Trail Dispatch
IDC Truck Driver Injured Two people and two dogs have been injured in a crash, but are expected to survive. On September 20, a semi truck heading north on the Perimeter Highway lost control and hit the ditch, just north of Portage Avenue. According to police, the accident occurred after the area was hit hard by rain. Police said the truck appears to have hydroplaned, hit another car, and then rolled a number of times. The 49-year-old semi-truck driver from Ile-des-ChĂŞnes was transported to the hospital in critical condition, where he was later taken into surgery. His 22-year-old passenger was also transported to the hospital in stable condition. The sole occupant of the car that was hit was not hurt. The two dogs travelling in the truck received minor injuries and were taken care of by emergency animal services.
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A Stitch in Time
Doris Toews from Heartland Quilters and Steinbach MLA, Kelvin Goertzen, check out some of the many quilts that have been made by volunteer quilters to be donated to organizations who care for people who are sick or in need. A celebration was held at Heartland’s headquarters near Steinbach recently to mark the official incorporation of Heartland quilters. The group was formerly known as VQC/Steinbach branch but has reorganized as Heartland. In 2013 they gifted 175 quilts and expect to donate at least that many this year.
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Steinbach RCMP Investigate Methamphetamine Trafficking On September 17 at approximately 3 pm, Steinbach RCMP executed a search warrant at a residence in Steinbach, arrested eight individuals and seized 10 grams of methamphetamine, which is a substantial amount for a community the size of Steinbach. Armand Delaurier, 30, Cody Kehler, 21, Shanlee Fryza, 28 all from Steinbach and Timothy Schroeder, 40, of the RM of Ste-Anne were arrested and charged by Steinbach RCMP. The charges included Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking and Trafficking Methamphetamine. They were released, awaiting their court appearance in Steinbach. Those who traffic in illicit drugs destroy lives, homes and communities. The RCMP remains fully committed to enforcing laws against illicit drugs to their fullest extent. Anyone with information regarding drug trafficking is asked to call their local police agency or RCMP detachment.
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October 2014
Mudfestival Returns with a Splash
Getting dirty is the primary goal for the annual ‘Mudfest: A Family Messtival’, which took place September 5 and 6 in St. Adolphe. Photo by Marianne Curtis
By Marianne Curtis After taking a year off, the annual ‘MudFest: A Family Messtival’ made a successful return to the community of St. Adolphe on September 5 and 6. Organizers estimate that over four hundred people came out and participated in this year’s event, which began on September 5, with community fireworks. The next day was full of activities including a Mud Cake Breakfast, pancakes with treats, followed by a mudslide, two mud-pits with activities for all ages, tug of war, mini-golf, kids tent, sand play hill and a mud sculpture contest. “One of the most popular events was the mudslide,” stated Montana Quiring, one of the event organizers. “The kids love sliding down there and the mud pit at the bottom was a huge hit.” There was also a Geocache treasure hunt, recreation baseball games, horseshoes and Bocce. In the evening, families came out to participate in the Mudfest Apocalypse Run. This year there were three options including the family run, a one-mile obstacle course, individual 5 km run or a 10 km run, plus the one-mile obstacle course. This was followed by live entertainment and beer gardens. Over the weekend, money was collected in support of four local organizations, including the St. Adolphe Child Care Centre, St. Adolphe Curling Club, the Greenspace Committee and Playground Committee.
Dawson Trail Dispatch