Dawson Trail Dispatch December 2012

2

2

Sober Ride Founder Reports Busy Year

By Marianne Curtis With the holiday season, nipping at our heels the founder of Sober Ride would like to remind people to take a stand against impaired driving

while out celebrating with family and friends.

A year and a half ago Shaylene Hawthorn, from Ile des Chênes, launched a new initiative called “Sober Ride”.

The 25-year-old paramedic started the program with a goal to eliminate impaired driving one vehicle at a time by encouraging drivers to take the Sober Ride pledge. By joining Sober Ride, people take a pledge to not

drink and drive. In addition, placing a decal in the window of their vehicle pledges said vehicle will always be driven by a sober driver.

“I have been affected by losses associated with drinking and driving so I am very passionate about this,” explained Hawthorn. “I want to eliminate drinking and driving one vehicle at a time.”

Since the launch of the program, thousands of people have taken the pledge across Canada and the United States.

Hawthorn has gained support and joined up as a partner with organizations including the Manitoba Liquor Commission, MADD, Winnipeg Fire, the RCMP, Paramedic Service and the Winnipeg Police Service. She has also spent countless hours at various schools, educating students on Sober Ride.

“We had a huge launch in our clothing line, Sober Ride Wear with Pride, as well as our side feature of Paramedics Against Impaired Shaylene Hawthorn promoting Sober Ride in the halls of one of the local schools.

Driving, with paramedics all over the province in support,” Hawthorn continued. “We have a growing donation fund to donate to places like MADD, which we made a prerequisite when I signed as a board member with them. Collected donations will be donated to families who are affected this holiday season.”

“Sober Ride” has also seen a huge increase on the Facebook fan page, made the radio, television, newspapers province-wide, plus received endless online support, Hawthorn noted.

Monies from the sales of decals and clothing goes towards programs offered by MADD, victim services and memorials for families that have lost a loved one due to drinking and driving.

The “Sober Ride” initiative targets drivers of all ages, especially young adults. Hawthorn hopes to continue the success of the program by bringing it to the campuses of high schools and universities in Manitoba.

3

La Broquerie and Steinbach Increase Child Care Spaces

By Marianne Curtis Southeast residents looking for childcare will soon have access to more childcare spaces after the province recently announced the opening of more than 150 new spaces.

Premier Greg Selinger made the announcement in person recently, that more than $1 million is being invested to create a new childcare centre in Steinbach and to help an additional three expand, one in Steinbach and two in La Broquerie. An additional 158 spaces are expected to be available for local families.

“These new spaces mean more parents will have access to the childcare they need to be able to work and support their families and thrive in their communities,” stated Selinger. “We are funding more high-quality, licensed and reliable childcare options than ever before in Manitoba because it’s a priority for families.”

Kinder Korner Early Learning Centre in Clearspring Middle School in Steinbach received funding for a new satellite site of the existing Kinder Korner Early Learning Centre at 307 Hanover St. At the school, 67 new spaces were created including 12 infant, 40 preschool and 15 school age. The childcare centre will received an annual operating grant funding of more than $290,000.

Also in Steinbach, Happy Feet Early Learning Centre is getting funding to relocate and expand. The project creates 44 new spaces including 12 infant and 32 preschool, all of which receive annual funding of more than $239,000. Including the expanded spaces, Happy Feet now has 76 child-care spaces, all of which are fully funded. The new construction was approved for up to $316,000 in provincial support.

Treasure Keepers Children’s Centre in La Broquerie, is a licensed child-care facility that has 40 spaces consisting of seven infant, 18 preschool and 15 school-age spaces.

The Arborgate Treasure Keepers Children’s Centre is a new satellite location at Arborgate School in La Broquerie that has 47 additional funded spaces including

8 infant, 24 preschool and 15 school-age spaces with about $190,000 in annual support.

The provincial government has more than doubled annual funding for childcare to $143 million from $70 million in the past 10 years, Selinger noted.

Former Ste. Anne Police Sergeant Faces Weapons Charges Randy Chudyk, a former sergeant of the Ste. Anne Police department, is facing firearms charges after an investigation by the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT).

On November 21, the ASIRT investigations operating in Manitoba charged Chudyk with one count of careless use of a firearm contrary to section 86 of the Criminal code and one count of pointing a firearm contrary to section 87 of the Criminal Code.

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) was called in to conduct an i n d e p e n d e n t investigation on January 18, 2012. After an investigation, the ASIRT submitted a report to independent Crown Counsel in Manitoba for review and charges have now been laid against the accused.

On January 10, former Ste. Anne Police Sergeant Randy Chudyk faces charges of Officials said the allegedly misusing a taser. alleged incident involved a “conducted energy weapon”, more commonly known as a stun gun or taser.

As a result of the charges, Chudyk resigned from his position as sergeant of the Ste. Anne police department.

Chudyk is expected to appear in Steinbach Provincial Court on January 10.

4

Sometimes an Inquiry is Not Enough An inquiry is unfolding in Winnipeg that is long overdue. It centres on the very short life of Phoenix Sinclair who was abused, tortured and murdered at age six.

What is beyond tragic is her murder is not unique, not the first and unlikely not to be the last. One can only hope, but alas, the game is stacked against us by our collective fear of honest dialogue.

This crime took place in 2006, and that the inquiry is only now taking place is telling. Delay has all to do with some of the players involved in CFS regarding this file. It is that they are using legal maneuvers to delay, delay, and more delay. The Inquiry is a very good thing, but some of the players are focusing on muddying the waters. It is amazing how many can’t recall, can’t remember and are not sure of much but payday. Coming from “professionals” who are supposed to make notes, we hear “my notes are not complete” or “lost”.

I am sure that the inquiry will have value despite the stonewalling of some CFS personnel, past and present, but other faults in the system are also some possible shortcomings affecting the problems this case is trying to uncover. It is interesting to note also that Phoenix’ older brother was apprehended at birth and is hopefully doing well, as per hearsay, whereas her younger sister Echo died before her second birthday at home of respiratory failure. If this wee girl had been apprehended at birth she might still have many smiles left in her life as opposed to just being a footnote in history.

The system, in my opinion, is broken. From 1997 till 2006, 48 children died while receiving care.

Since 2006, 11 deaths have occurred, five by accidents, six by suicide, two by homicide and two undetermined. Sixteen different CFS agencies look after children in need, 14 are First Nation CFS, 1 Métis CFS and one for all other Manitoban children. In 2006, 6,629 children were in CFS care, In 2007 CFS had 7,241children in CFS care, and In 2008 children in care of CFS climbed to 7,836. Of these children, 70 percent were First Nation, six percent First Nation non-status, nine percent Métis and 14 percent other. I could not find numbers that are more current for 2009 moving forward and I would be happy if this was trending downwards. But if trends were improving, governments, notwithstanding the freedom of information act, would be shouting the news from the rooftops so often that we could recite the figures by heart, and I would be pleased to write a congratulatory message.

The first step for us to get to the root of the problem is we must entice the elephant out of the room. Yes, that’s the “R” word, Racism. Let’s analyze some of this history. In our recent past, Judge Edwin Kimmelman referred to fostering and adopting native children in non-native homes as cultural genocide. In 2007 baby, Gage Guimond was removed from a white home to his great aunt and died. Phoenix Sinclair was safe for a very short period and was sent home to her mother. Subsequently

Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.

The Dawson Trail Dispatch is a monthly newspaper distributed free of charge to 50 Southeastern Manitoba communities.

Published by: One One Consultants Inc. Box 308, Richer, MB R0E 1S0 Phone: (204) 422-8548 Fax: (204) 422-9768 Dan Guetre, Managing Editor One One Consultants Inc., Publisher News Writers: Marianne Curtis, and Dan Guetre Columnists: Lee Guetre, Peter Friesen, Anni Markmann, Peter Martens, Herman Unrau, Raylene Snow, Lorena Mitchell, Eileen Lewis, Travis Olifirowich Production/Design: Dan Guetre, Myriam Dyck, Monica Guetre and Wilma Priebe Advertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre

For Advertising Call: Phone: (204) 422-8548 Fax: (204) 422-9768 Email: sales@dawsontrail.ca Subscriptions: $29.95 annually plus GST for Canadian Subscriptions. $52.95 annually for International Subscriptions

Canada Post Agreement Number 42079020

relevant factors. He was probably a wee bit short on sociology. We all started in our distant past with nationalistic tribal tendencies, but the future, through trial and error, is togetherness.

In this same vein, why is there a difference in criminal sentencing for First Nation people? Are we saying we expect less of them? Are we saying they are less culpable and therefore have less responsibility? I view this as insulting and utterly racist.

I say many Native people have flourished in a white fostering or adoptive environment, or maybe, and unfortunately, just plainly stayed alive because of their white her parents were sentenced for environment. Also, there have first-degree murder. been instances of whites being Why it is that white Canadians adopted and assimilated into the can adopt Chinese, Vietnamese or native culture with very positive Africans without being accused results. I would guess just being of cultural genocide? Really, we alive at times is definitely view these intercultural insufficient but better than the adoptions as a good thing. I alternative; then you grow up and would guess that the initial at least have a shot at rolling the culture and language shocks dice. would be even greater for the The fact is there are not enough children in these circumstances, placements available in the Native but a parent’s love overcomes. environment. Too many young I suspect that Judge parents are looking only for a Kimmelman did not consider all cheque to sustain an addiction

while children stay cold, hungry and in need of a hug. How many child pregnancies are repeated repeatedly in a “child-a-year cycle” that is controlled by addiction?

How much of this problem is created by incest, without even statutory rape as a consequence?

How many girls end up in prostitution to gain acceptance?

How many damaged children is one too many? Is the Native culture the only possible cure? Nonsense, this is racism from within and cultural suicide as a consequence. It’s time we collectively booted political correctness out of the park.

Of course, there is the money question. If we were making headway, we would say money well spent, but this is not the case. It looks more and more like a bottomless pit for heartache, dead children and cash. Maybe we should ask Chief Nelson for ideas he may have brought back from Iran. Or we could have a good talk about honesty, integrity and what is or is not racism. For the actual cost of being ignored, winning has to be only objective.

Have a meaningful and pleasant Christmas.

NDP Cause of Increase to Manitoba’s Debt Many people will be going out in the coming weeks to shop for the perfect gift for a good friend or family member. For many people this is the time of year we see our credit card balances grow faster than at any other time. An interesting study by the Royal Bank of Canada has recently come out which said that Manitobans plan to spend 5 percent less on Christmas this year. This amounts to a drop from an average of $1,428 to $1,362.

Manitobans are undoubtedly re-examining their finances to see what they can afford to spend. And I think this is a positive thing. The recent global financial crisis has taught us that what we spend and how we spend it is very important. The fiscal cliff in the United States, for example, can be attributed directly to poor spending decisions over many decades on the part of policy makers.

Manitobans understand the value of a well-managed household budget. Many have learned, through a painful economic experience, the value of proper financial planning and being responsible with money.

It is a shame that the NDP have not.

It is worth repeating that Manitoba today has more debt than ever before. In 1999, Manitoba owed $9.1 billion, whereas today it is over $16 billion. That’s a 76 percent increase in the 13 years that the NDP has been in power; and remember that $16 billion does not include the $10 billion owed by Manitoba Hydro.

What is clear is that the NDP have learned nothing from the financial crisis and believe they can spend as much as they want and future generations will have to bear the consequences.

The NDP are fond of saying Manitoba’s economy is a strong engine with low unemployment and more jobs than ever before. But the facts say differently. A survey was recently released which stated 63,000 Manitobans now use food banks and that youth account for 50 percent of that. This means that 31,500 kids in Manitoba must rely on food banks for the necessities of life. A full 20 percent of Manitoba’s children live under the poverty line. Manitoba’s poverty rate is 6.4 percent higher than the national average. Something is seriously wrong.

The NDP like to hand out cheques at fancy announcements, but when it comes to addressing issues of youth and adult poverty they are eerily silent. If the NDP reined in their spending, focused on debt reduction, and stopped overtaxing Manitobans, we would have the foundation to start seriously reducing our poverty levels. The NDP are failing Manitobans, the stats point that out and we cannot afford to ignore their spendthrift ways anymore. Manitobans are suffering and the NDP don’t seem to care.

As this will be the last issue before January, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

I welcome all comments and concerns you may have. If you’d like to contact me, please feel free to call my office by phone at 204-424-5406, by fax at 204-424-5458, or by writing to Box 889, La Broquerie MB, R0A 0W0. You can also email me at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca.

5

NDP Full of Surprises It’s often nice to be surprised. An unexpected gift or act of kindness can really make someone’s day.

December especially can be a month of anticipation about surprises to come.

But not all surprises are welcome. Sometimes they cause disruption and uncertainty and those receiving them wish they would have known ahead of time. These unwelcome surprises are the kind that Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger and his NDP government have been specializing in lately and it has many people wondering what other surprises are coming next.

In spring of this year the NDP surprised rural Regional Health Authorities (RHAs) around the province by announcing forced amalgamations. There wasn’t any notice or forewarning, just a surprise one day that this was the new direction and everyone would have to comply. This came about the same time that the NDP surprised Manitobans with nearly $200 million worth of tax increases, six months after they promised not to raise taxes. If you believed Mr. Selinger’s promise, this certainly came as a surprise.

Recently Premier Selinger made a surprise announcement at a news conference that he was also breaking his promise to balance the budget by 2014. Up until then, Mr. Selinger had been saying the province was not only on track to keep its promise to balance the books by 2014 but actually ahead of schedule.

Then, a new surprise that the province was supporting a plan to use the premiums paid by Manitobans into Manitoba Public Insurance for building roads. This also came as a surprise to most Manitobans since they assumed that vehicle insurance premiums were intended to pay for vehicle insurance. This came around the time that the NDP surprised Manitobans with the news that overnight snow clearing shifts had been cut by the province. In a province like Manitoba, which is known to get a bit of snow in the winter, this really came as a surprise!

And then in mid-November another surprised dropped as the NDP announced it would be looking to force smaller municipalities to merge with other municipalities. One might have thought that Mr. Selinger would have talked this idea over with municipal officials before announcing it, but no, just like the RHA announcement, it was a complete surprise as well.

Amalgamated health authorities and municipalities, new taxes, broken balanced budget pledges, misuse of Crown Corporations and canceling snow plowing. The NDP really is full of surprises. But for many Manitobans, these are the kind of unexpected surprises that make them concerned about what other surprises the NDP has for them and what might be targeted next.

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) 3265763, 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.

Christmas Jitters This time of year, under the guise of love and giving, many people do not feel all this good cheer. This can be a very difficult time.

Feelings begin to jitter and quiver subconsciously. Some become depressed, grief surfaces, mental illness rises, loneliness raises it’s cruel head and family relatives that drive you nuts, can be sharing the same Christmas turkey! It is not all love and good will, but often suppressed emotions. For some, each Christmas that rolls around harbors strange, painful, or frustrating thoughts from the past.

All those TV Christmas shows and commercials depict a world of happiness, caring, giving, and healthy, functional families. And it doesn’t matter what our age, it is a life style we all dream about and yearn for. When all these emotions are secretly surfacing, negative thoughts and possibly negative behaviour will follow. Old abuse, lost loved ones and the relative that is always hard to put up with have been given the power to haunt you.

Why am I writing such a downbeat article about Christmas? Because I want everyone to realize that, we are all human and are not alone when we have such feelings. We become sensitive and more fragile at this time of year. Accept your emotions as “normal” this season. Do not let these demons of the past control this Christmas. Plan some strategies that can make you feel better.

Here are a few tips to ease the stress: - Keep the gifts to a few close family members (if you must do the gifting). Make them inexpensive, but meaningful. Tell others you are donating to a needy cause on their behalf.

- Keep the dinners simple and share the work. Remember when we are tired, we are more vulnerable.

- Limit alcohol intake. It really drags you out and makes you unable to deal with the “rush”.

- Watch how much sugar you are eating. This produces up and down emotions.

- When out doing that extra Christmas shopping, carry water to sip. This actually keeps you calm and hydrated.

- Take a LIST to the store! Get what you need and get out. This is not a good time to browse.

- Don’t leave anything for the last minute. Organize the days prior to events so you are not left running around trying to do it all and then rush out to a gathering. If you are rushing and tired, you will find everything irritating.

- Don’t be afraid to say, “No”. It’s a nice gift to yourself to make your Christmas what ‘You’ like.

- If you have too many Christmas gatherings, remember you can take the pressure off by having some of them in January or any time of the year. I once did Xmas in July. It was a blast!

- Schedule some sleep when you know you will have late nights. Sleep depravation makes one very irritable and unable to cope. So, plan a nap, a sleep in, or early to bed if you were out late the night before.

- Reach for the veggies and dip tray. It keeps you away from the high fat, high sugar that causes mood fluctuations. (If you are asked to bring a dish, bring the veggies!)

- Take extra vitamins and herbal drinks to boost your system for the energy that Christmas demands.

- Go outside. Shovel the walk, stroll the park with the kids, go tobogganing, walk to the store, go skating, etc.

Fresh air and exercise can be the best release for pent up emotions.

- Every once in awhile take a moment to close your eyes and just “listen.” Meditating on the sounds of Christmas will bring positive feelings.

Well, if you’ve tried your best and still feel like you are the Christmas ‘Grinch’, full of the jitters and those horrible, negative feelings just won’t leave, here is my last bit of advice: - Remember these six words, “IT’S ALL OVER ON DECEMBER 26TH!!!”

I wish you all the ‘best’ that Christmas can be. Stay healthy and well.

Raylene Snow is the Owner and Operator of Raylene’s Day & Night Spa just outside of Ste. Anne.

Give the Gift of Creativity Register now for Creative Wellness, Creative Cooking, Kids in the Kitchen, French, Spanish or Visual Arts classes.

15% off Visual Arts Classes Register before December 19: Adults 16+ Exploring Acrylics, Mix n’ Match Watercolor & Acrylics, NEW! Absolute Abstract, Drawing Dynamics, Teens Clay: Intro to the Wheel, Teen Art X-Treme, Kids NEW! Cartooning, Art Adventures, Clay: Hand Building, Digital Photography for Kids, Teens & Adults.

15% off Creative Wellness Register before December 19. Get fit this season with Triple Benefits, Power Pilates, Yoga, Zumba or Belly Dance.

NEW! Zu-Tabata A blend of Tabata (high-intensity interval training) and fun Latin dance rhythms, focusing on full body muscle toning. Zu-Tabata increases strength and endurance and promotes weight loss and overall health.

15% off Gift Certificates Offer valid until December 19. Give a gift that lasts. Gift certificates can be used for art from our Buy or Lease Art Program, concert tickets, or classes and programs.

The Dance Floor Our Social Dance program is back in full swing this January. It’s a great way to stay active, learn new steps and meet new friends. Learn the Country Two Step, West Coast Swing, Meringue – or all three. FREE practice time is included in your registration fee.

Dance in the holidays at our Christmas Potluck Dance at Steinbach’s Royal Canadian Legion, December 7 at 8 pm. Bring your favorite hors d’oeuvres or a snack to share plus enjoy a half hour dance lesson. No dance experience necessary. Bring your kids! Call for tickets – only $5/person.

Dance Workshops coming up Dance partners can learn how to move and communicate on the dance floor at The Art of Lead & Follow workshop on December 13 from 7:30 - 9 pm at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre. Singles or couples are welcome to come.

Coming soon…

The First Dance workshops are perfect for Bride & Groom, Father & Daughter or Bridal Parties. Only two weeks and you’ll be good to go. January 21 & 28 at the Cultural Arts Centre. Customizable workshops also available.

Online Art Sale Check out our online art sale at steinbachartscouncil.ca. Original, one-ofa-kind artwork is on sale now for a limited time. Just click the Buy or Lease tab.

Art Stream Open House Art Stream Open House on December 14 at the Loewen Green Art Scene, 306 Reimer Ave, 7 pm. Artists! RSVP one or two pieces of your artwork by December 10. Then invite your friends and family out to the Open House for local art, live music and great coffee.

Hall Gallery On now in the Hall Gallery – Emotional Extensions by new local artist, Mark Giesbrecht. Mark’s bold use of line and abstract styling will give you something to talk about.

Calling all artists Applications are now available for the Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit.

Local artists of all ages are welcome to enter one piece of artwork.

Registrations are due on January 11. See more information online.

Arts4Tots Ages 3-5 will love the Arts4Tots Preschool Program. Arts4Tots teaches early childhood development through Drama, Dance, Music and Crafts.

Parents love our Arts focus, our indoor and outdoor lesson environments and our community field trips. We are now accepting registrations for January.

Half off for ages 5-8 Acting Out! Theater classes. Students have unlimited access to our closet full of costumes and props. Our experienced instructors will help inspire creativity and build confidence through hands-on classes with storytelling, puppet shows, and FUN.

Make a mess You are invited to make a mess – FREE studio space at the Loewen Green Art Scene where you can splatter, spray, squish and glob. Please call ahead to book space.

Magical Mystery Munsch Come in your pajamas for milk and cookies, and a great family show.

Magical Mystery Munsch will have you in a fit of hysterics. Prairie Theatre Exchange is coming to the SRSS Theatre on January 19 to perform your favorite Robert Munsch stories. Limited spaces available. Call for tickets.

Creative Community Corporate Campaign We need your help! This year’s goal is to raise $50,000 for the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre. Your support will be acknowledged on our donor wall, signage and future programs and events. Tax receipts are available.

6

Construction Begins at Region’s Largest High School Construction of a 105,000 square foot expansion of the region’s largest high school began in November. The two-year project will see the construction of a major addition that will house grade 9 and 10 students along with a vocational classroom area.

Ken Klassen, Hanover School Division Superintendent, said that construction is in the early stages.

“The construction site is being set up so that it is safe. There will be major modifications to the front of the school and there will be a new fire lane off Mckenzie Avenue,” Klassen explained. A turnaround is also being added in front of the school for parents dropping off students.

“That will allow workers to completely fence off the construction area.”

PennCo Construction started prepping the site in November. Piles were dug on the east side of the school where the labs are being expanded, as well as on the west side where the new school is being added. To ensure safety during the project the division has three-safety personnel onsite to ensure that traffic and students remain safe during the construction period.

“We are putting everything in place to make this a safe venture,” Klassen added.

Klassen noted that it will be several months before residents could see any structural changes; however, crews will be replacing the roof during the winter.

The new construction will reconfigure the SRSS campus with the new addition as a foundation academy for grades 9 and 10 and the existing SRSS facility will become a specialized academy for grades 11 and 12.

The new school will be approximately 92,400 square feet, accommodate 675 students and will be located adjacent to the existing Steinbach Regional Secondary School. Along with classrooms, the addition will contain band and choral, wood manufacturing, cosmetology and human ecology rooms with a childcare centre with space for 20 infants and 54 preschool children.

A fall 2014 completion day is expected.

Shocked by the Sound Well, ladies and gentlemen, I believe that winter has at long last arrived. If the freshly fallen snow and the slippery road conditions don’t show it, the freezing cold temperatures that force us to bundle up before stepping outside certainly help to get the message across. “Bundle up or freeze off a body part” may be just one of the many messages that Jack Frost might be whispering to us.

For this month’s column, I wanted to write about something that caught me off guard and left an impression on me. It happened last month when we had that evening and day of rainy-changing-to-icy weather.

In the morning after the night of slushy, icy rain, I’d scraped my car’s windows and made the drive off to work without any problems.

While I was at work though, the weather didn’t get any better and the temperature dropped to make the icy rain worse.

Later, when I walked out of work, it hit me. No, it wasn’t a snowball and no, I didn’t just figure out why the chicken crossed the road (that one’s still a mystery). It was the sounds that I was hearing.

Blocking out the everyday sounds of vehicles idling, traffic passing by on the nearby street and any of the other numerous sounds of the city one normally hears was a sound that I hadn’t heard before at that level. It was the sound of scraping. People scattered throughout the parking lot were attempting to scrape the thick, solid layer of ice off their vehicle’s windows, some succeeding while others were failing.

The shear effect that the sounds of the scraping would be loud enough to block out all the other noises was staggering. It wasn’t long before I too, added to the din with my plastic and wood weapon of ice destruction. Now, I have scraped my share of car windows. I am, after all, a born and bred Manitoban, but this ice was something else. With the ice being so thick and solid it would have almost been easier to chisel through a concrete wall with the window scraper than to bust a hole through the ice on my window that would be big enough for me to properly and safely see through.

Turning the car’s heat on helped a little but between you and me, I think the heat merely tickled the wall of ice. No, the best way to get through this ice was with determination and brute strength. Raising the scraper high I had to ram the corner of the scraper into the ice and hope that the ice would chip off before the glass below it would. Luckily, after what seemed like several days, I did manage to overcome the ice and headed off down the road towards home.

That is when I found out how icy the roads were…

Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.

Hanover Approves Community Based Grants

Eight halls and community clubs within the Hanover School Division received funding after the municipality approved a number of discretionary grants.

The clubs receiving funds include the Mitchell Community Centre ($500), Sarto Dance Club ($1,200), District Schools Heritage Association ($500) and the Pansy Recreation Association ($591). The Sarto Hall, Friedensfeld Community Centre and the Pansy Hall received equal grants of $4,350 each, while the Grunthal Community Centre Board received $4,250.

A total of $20,091 in grants was approved.

7

Southeast Cell Service Hot Topic at AMM

By Marianne Curtis The lack of adequate cellular communications in various areas of the province was the hot topic at the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) annual Convention, which took place November 26-29 at the Winnipeg Convention Centre.

Initially delegates were going through 54 resolutions but a late submission by the RM of Stuartburn council regarding the lack of cellular service in the area was added at the top of the list. Initially the matter appeared on the agenda but not up to debate.

AMM President Doug Dobrowolski said the resolution called on the provincial and federal governments to come up with a plan to “fix this situation once and for all.”

“In October, the south eastern part of the province experienced a devastating wild fire followed by a snow storm,” he explained. “The lack of cell service in this area created a life-threatening situation where emergency City of Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen, AMM Eastern Urban Director, spoke of the lack of adequate cellular service across the southeast personnel couldn’t communicate with each other or with citizens in need at the recent AMM convention. of assistance. This was the latest in a series of emergencies in this area where the lack of cell service has endangered lives.”

Eastern Urban Director, City of Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen, discussed the late resolution called “Improve Emergency and Cellular Service”.

“Although the City of Steinbach, being an urban centre, is not lacking in this area we are greatly concerned about the communities around us, this affects our neighbours,” said Goertzen.

The issue was pushed to the forefront by the RM of Stuartburn and the neighbouring municipalities of Franklin, Piney and La Broquerie because wild fires and a blizzard caused power failures and other emergencies at the end of October.

RM of Stuartburn Reeve Jim Swidersky is pleading with the government to step in and connect the area to a reliable communication source.

“The southeastern part of Manitoba contains vast areas that completely lack service or receive such weak, intermittent service that one cannot make a phone call,” stated the Reeve.

This is becoming an integral argument after the emergency Fleetnet System failed while the municipality was dealing with fires at the beginning of October. This is the second time this has happened in the area during the height of a crisis.

Prior to the convention there were already three active (but unresolved) resolutions dating back several years at the AMM level requesting improved cell phone and/ or internet service in northern and rural communities.

The issue always seems to come down to money and how much it would cost to install infrastructure capable of providing service.

Provencher MP Vic Toews confirmed that MTS has sent the federal government an estimate of $21 million to provide cellular service to areas currently without.

He added that his government is prepared to work with municipalities to make this happen.

A few weeks before the convention, the RM of Piney became the first municipality to make a funding commitment to show their seriousness in wanting the service. By resolution of council, the municipality committed $250,000 towards infrastructure costs. This money will be available for at least two years.

8

La Broquerie Man Charged for Tanker Theft in US

By Marianne Curtis A forty-year-old La Broquerie man is facing numerous charges after allegedly stealing a fuel truck and leading police on a high speed chase in the United States.

Marc CJ Chartier is facing numerous charges after an incident that took place on November 9 in Pennsylvania. During the early hours, Northern York County Regional Police Department received a report of a stolen tractortrailer from Edris Oil. The 2012 White Volvo Cab was pulling a silver gasoline tanker. The operator of the truck advised that he had just hooked up to the trailer and had walked into the office. When he exited the office the truck and trailer were gone, said police.

Two minutes later police spotted the truck and attempted to stop it

Job Cuts at Valeant In order to remain competitive, one of Steinbach’s largest employers has cut over three dozen jobs. As of the middle of November, Valeant Pharmaceuticals cut 39 jobs from the Steinbach plant.

Tony Martinez, General Manager of Valeant, said the move was made in an “effort to remain competitive in the market.”

“We have elected to try to reduce our cost of goods and, in doing so, it was necessary to take some reductions in personnel and reduction in expenses,” explained Martinez. “It resulted in a total of 15 involuntary separations and we had 24 volunteers who elected to take a severance payout. Collectively that was 39 individuals who have been impacted.”

“The pharmaceutical industry is becoming increasingly competitive as governments in Canada and the United States put pressure on drug makers to reduce prices,” Martinez added. “The business that we’re in continues to face cost constraints.”

Valeant, like many pharmaceutical companies, is feeling the pressure to reduce costs so governments who pay for medications can find a less expensive product.

“This puts pressure on us to try to reduce the costs where we can to try to offer our medications at the most competitive prices,” Martinez noted.

There are still over 400 employees employed at Valeant despite the cutbacks.

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc., formally Biovail Corporation in Steinbach, is a multinational specialty pharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of pharmaceutical products primarily in the areas of neurology, dermatology and branded generics.

Worldwide employees’ total approximately 7,500 and corporate headquarters are located in Montreal, Quebec. Its year-to-date 2012 Revenues are listed at $1.67 billion of which, $1.5 billion is from product sales.

but Chartier refused to stop. Two additional cruisers joined the chase and were forced to avoid head-on collisions after he allegedly jumped lanes and headed straight for the police cars in an attempt to evade arrest.

Officers approached the vehicle while it was stopped at a red light but the driver took off before they could apprehend him. Afterwards he failed to stop at five consecutive red lights while warning oncoming drivers by applying his air-horn.

The chase finally ended when Chartier lost control of the rig while attempting to go onto an on-ramp.

He lost control and hit the guardrail.

When officers approached the vehicle and demanded that he exit, he refused and was forced out by officers. Chartier was taken to an area hospital and treated for minor injuries sustained in the accident.

Chartier was arraigned with numerous charges including theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property, fleeing or attempting to

elude an officer, aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person, driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance and various traffic violations.

At last word, Chartier was being held on $25,000 bail. Chartier is employed as a truck driver by a Winnipeg company.

Forty-year-old Marc CJ Chartier from La Broquerie faces numerous charges after an incident involving the theft of a tractor-trailer and high-speed chase in the United States.

9

Lemieux Suggests Municipalities Need to Amalgamate

By Marianne Curtis If all goes according to plan, the province could see the number of municipalities decreased by 92 by the end of next year, Minister of Local Government, Ron Lemieux, told the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) delegates during their recent annual convention.

On November 27, Lemieux discussed amalgamation when he addressed over 1,000 mayors, reeves and councillors throughout the province during the AMM annual convention that took place November 26 to 29 in Winnipeg.

According to the Selinger government, 92 out of 197 municipalities in the province do not meet the legal threshold of 1,000 residents. As a result, the province is encouraging them to amalgamate with their neighbors.

He added this was important because it left $14 million in unclaimed Federal Gas tax funding that could otherwise have been paid out.

“Those dollars belong to you and that is delaying investments in much needed infrastructure in your community,” Lemieux stressed. “In the coming weeks letters will be sent out to every municipality to initiate the first steps towards municipal amalgamation.”

The province has three goals in mind with this proposal. It is expected to give municipalities’ better ability to fund projects and access funding through provincial and federal programs. It is also expected to improve the delivery of services and governance in administration. The change is to help launch coordinated efforts to promote economic growth, reduce fragmentation and improve regional thinking and action.

Doug Dobrowolski, President of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities, said the process has to be done right and not done to meet an artificial deadline.

“There is debt, there are assets, there are service sharing agreements with various municipalities; all these things have to be worked out and that doesn’t just happen overnight. There is a lot of things that have to be negotiated so that it is fair for everyone and the

“In the coming weeks letters will be sent out to every municipality to initiate the first steps towards municipal amalgamation.”

“I think it’s fair to say the smaller municipalities have limited borrowing capacity and often struggle to meet legislative and regulatory requirements that are often imposed upon them,” said Lemieux. He noted some municipalities have not submitted audited financial statements for 2011, a process that has been overdue since June. Moreover, some municipalities have yet to submit 2010 and even 2009 financial statements.

Minister of Local Government, Ron Lemieux, told representatives from 197 municipalities that they are expected to amalgamate within the next 12 months.

timeline the province has set out is very aggressive.”

Bob Stefaniuk, Mayor of Ritchot and Eastern Rural Director for AMM, said that some municipalities are threatened with talk of amalgamation.

“It has to be done in a gentle way,” said Stefaniuk. “There are a lot of historic aspects to some municipalities and they guard that jealously.

The province needs to let the municipalities make up their minds with who they want to amalgamate with.”

While the province is calling for all municipalities to amalgamate voluntarily, all municipalities that fall below the 1,000-population threshold are expected to complete the amalgamation process by the 2014 municipal elections.

10

Piney Commits Funds for Cell Service

By Marianne Curtis The RM of Piney council is putting their money where their mouth is by committing a quarter of a million dollars towards bringing cellular service to the municipality. The municipality recently committed $250,000 towards cellular phone capital improvements that will incorporate a land area of at least fifty percent or greater of the municipality.

According to council, the municipality has been working for over a decade to improve cellular service coverage within the municipality with little improvement resulting from those efforts.

After wild fires and several snowstorms caused power fails and other difficulties with communications, the municipality has had enough.

“Cellular phone service is an essential and necessary service to the general population, and more importantly to emergency responders and people in need of assistance from emergency responders,” stated council. “The Southeast Manitoba region contains vast areas of territory which either completely lack cellular service or receive cellular service which is not adequate to make a phone call.”

At the beginning of October the RMs of Stuartburn, Piney, Franklin, La Broquerie and Hanover all suffered from a number of disastrous events that covered immense portions of the Southeast Manitoba region during which emergency crews had limited or no access to cellular phone service. This was causing delays in response time to reach or even be aware of emergencies, which surrounded people and properties.

Council made the decision for a funding commitment because they feel that all levels of government have a responsibility for preventing the loss of life; harm or damage to the health and wellbeing of people; damage to property or infrastructure in the case of an emergency.

The RM of Piney’s funding commitment is good for two years and expires in October 2014.

Grand Pointe Subdivision Planned The RM of Ritchot is considering a new 400-home residential development for the community of Grande Pointe south of Winnipeg.

“Grande Pointe Meadows is a proposal worth considering,” said Ward Councillor, Elmer Hywarren, “and I encourage residents to learn more and express their views.”

If the development proceeds, it would be done in two phases over the next 10 to 15 years and would be located at the south end of the community, north of Mondor Road.

11

From Practicum to Business Owners to a Place Called Home

By Marianne Curtis What started out as a practical rotation has turned into a new business venture for a young husband and wife team of pharmacists. Just over a month ago, Colin and Yvette Lafrenière took over their business from the previous owners who owned and operated the pharmacy in St. Pierre for 30 years.

The couple, who recently graduated from the University of Manitoba, said they’ve felt very welcomed since they moved to the community in August.

“St. Pierre has been home only since August, but I must say, my wife, Yvette, and I could not have pictured a better welcome to the community of St. Pierre,” stated Lafrenière. “After purchasing St. Pierre Pharmacy and becoming business [owners] it has been truly heart warming to hear all the kind words and well wishes that have been passed on. It did not take long for it to feel like home.”

He added that he is extremely

grateful for the help they’ve received from the previous owners, Réal and Francine Mullaire.

“We are taking the responsibility of continuing their 30 years of committed patient care,” Lafreniere continued. “Although a large task, we are eager to continue the services that Réal and Francine have provided over the last 30 years and hope to evolve as the needs of the community change.”

Lafrenière said he fell in love with the business and community while doing a practical rotation in the facility as a student.

“After spending a single week as part of the university requirements, I knew that St. Pierre Pharmacy possessed many of the attributes that I would look for when the time would come to start job hunting,” Lafrenière explained. “This led to a part time position while I was completing my pharmacy studies.

And finally a full time position once graduation and board certification was completed.”

His wife Yvette worked at St. Boniface Hospital as a pharmacy

Colin and Yvette Lafrenière, a husband and wife team of pharmacists, are the new owners of the St. Pierre Pharmacy.

student and took a full time pharmacist position shortly after graduation; however, returning to a rural Manitoba lifestyle has always been part of the couple’s plans and they were excited at the opportunity of owning and operating a business together.

St. Pierre-Jolys looking into Lagoon Problems The Village of St. Pierre-Jolys is asking for help from local residents to ensure the village’s lagoon will continue to meet the needs of the community until a suitable solution is found.

According to council, the community has seen a 31 percent growth rate over the last few years.

While this is a good problem to have, the community’s lagoon is reaching capacity.

“There is a risk of it overflowing when we have heavy rains or a large spring thaw,” stated council.

Stringent environmental rules have tied the Village’s hands when it comes to emergency discharges onto adjacent property.

“The only solution at this point is to truck the excess to a neighbouring lagoon at a minimum cost of $5,000 per day,” confirmed council.

To prevent this cost, the Village has asked residents to help by

diverting ground water away from the sewer system. Residents with sump pits are encouraged to pump the water into their own back yard or ditch.

Ratepayers without sump-pits can contact the Village and request an inspection. The inspector will work

with residents to find the best possible solution for their particular situation.

The Village of St. Pierre-Jolys council is continuing to investige affordable and long-term solutions but says it is too premature to say in what direction they are going.

12

Hit and Run Injures Pedestrian in Steinbach On November 16 at approximately 7:30 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a hit and run collision in the parking lot of Tim Horton’s and Safeway in Steinbach.

The investigation revealed that a northbound vehicle collided with a pedestrian. The northbound vehicle left the area and could not be located. The northbound vehicle is described as a smaller car, possibly a grey or silver Chevrolet Cavalier or Pontiac Sunfire. The vehicle may have damage to the front driver’s side area. The pedestrian was transported to hospital, however, his injuries do not appear to be life threatening.

Police are asking for the public’s assistance in locating the vehicle that fled the scene. If you have any information you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP at (204) 326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 at manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Year End Donations and Other Tips Congratulations Manitobans! We rank near the top in charitable giving. A BMO Harris Private Banking poll released in November found 84 per cent of Manitoba and Saskatchewan residents (lumped together in this poll) donated to a charity in the last year. The amount we gave averaged $751 each.

Let’s review the basics of donations and income taxes.

Any donation you make to a Canadian Registered Charity, you can use as a tax credit on your taxes.

I don’t like to say, “Tax deduction” because you do not use it to reduce your taxable income, but it can reduce your taxes payable. Remember to give by December 31 to use it on your 2012 income taxes!

If your donations are under $200, you should consider not using them each year, but let them carry forward (up to five years). The “tax break” you get on the first $200 each year is small (26 percent), but the total donations over $200 get a much bigger tax break: 46 percent. So receipts should be combined for both spouses and should be carried forward to get a bigger tax break in the future.

I do have some clients that don’t have taxes payable (lower income, enough other tax credits), so we carry them forward and can do so up to five years, hoping we can use them in the future. If I know, they are unlikely to pay taxes in the future, I recommend that if they want to donate to certain organizations to consider doing it in their adult children’s names (they likely have taxes payable). The payment has to be from the adult child, so make it cash (and receipt in child’s name) or money order or give money to your child and ensure they donate it to the charity of your choice!

And I have some clients that have no federal taxes payable, but do have provincial taxes payable (our provincial government has not increased tax credit brackets for more than 10 years, so we pay more and more provincial taxes each year even if our income is increasing only slightly. That’s my rant for the day!) So with these folks I have to “force” the tax software to claim the donations to reduce their provincial taxes payable.

Do you have shares or mutual funds outside of your Registered Retirement Savings Plan? These would be in a non-registered account or an open account. Did you know you can donate these shares or mutual funds to a charity and any capital gain you have is reduced to zero. So you don’t claim the capital gain on your income tax and you get the full credit for the donation. I have some clients that do this every year. We use an organization called Link Charity. Link Charity receives the donated shares or mutual funds through its brokerage account and gives a charity receipt for the value at the time the investment is sold. Then it sends the proceeds to the charity of your choice. It’s a win-win-win for everyone! If you have some investments that have a capital gain and you want to make some larger donations, keep this in mind!

You can also donate other items, like an antique car. It needs to be formally appraised, but a charity like a museum may love to receive the item and give you a receipt to use on your taxes.

Consider donating your old car. Charities like the Kidney Foundation, Teen Challenge, and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation can accept your old car or truck and give you a donation receipt for the value of the vehicle. I will add one note of caution that I learned from my parents. My brother was quick to have the car donated (which is a good thing), but he didn’t know my parents cannot use the donation receipt because they do not have taxes payable. Instead, we should have had the car given to one of the children (me!) and then I could have donated it. I learned from AJ Fiola Insurance in Ste. Anne that MPI allows a vehicle to be given to a child without it having to be safetied.

Watch out for the gifting tax-shelter schemes that give you a charitable receipt for two to three times what you actually donated. In the past those who participated in these schemes received a large tax refund based on the large charitable donation receipt, and then would spend years fighting with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) about it. Well, starting now the CRA will not give you your large refund. They will hold onto it until the charitable tax shelter is audited. So there is not much motivation to purchase these any more.

Here are a few other tips for the end of the year. Start organizing all your medical receipts. Instead of all those little prescription receipts, just go to your pharmacy in the New Year and ask for a printout that will have all of them listed. Much easier for us tax preparers too!

Keep that 2012 calendar! If it has all your medical appointments listed, this is the information you need to determine your medical travel. The appointment needs to be more than 40 km from your home and for a service you could not have received closer (mostly specialists in Winnipeg). And remember to keep track of any parking you paid for too. If you are more than 80 km, then you can claim a $17 meal too.

Keep all the receipts for your children’s activities. Sports and other activities are now a tax credit on your tax return (Children’s Fitness Credit and Children’s Arts Credit). And for Manitoba residents the 16 to 24 year olds can claim a Manitoba Young Adult Fitness Credit.

Keep your pay stub from the end of the year; compare it to the T4 you receive. It’s also good to keep for proof of payment: if you pay for some of your disability insurance and you go on claim for disability income, you can deduct what you paid (but only if you have the proof!).

Merry Christmas! Take pleasure in the company of family and friends. I wish you all a healthy and successful 2013.

Anni Markmann is a Certified Financial Planner, a Certified Professional Consultant on Aging, and a Tax Expert living, working, and volunteering in our community. Contact her at 422-6631, annimarkmann@mymts.net or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne.

13

SRSS Esthetics Students Recognized

Rescue Advocate Releases Fundraising Calendar

By Marianne Curtis “Don’t shop – adopt”. This is the message that Niverville dog lover and rescuer Barry Piasta is trying to convey with the release of a new fundraising calendar in support of pet rescue operations.

Each year about 4 to 5, million dogs are euthanized and an additional 8595 million are abandoned.

“That is approximately 1,200 semi-trailer loads,” stated Piasta. “One out of three dogs gets adopted, that means that two out of three are killed. This is mostly due to overpopulation by backyard breeders and puppy mills.”

That is what makes the new calendar so special. Each month has a photo and story about a dog that has been rescued, along with their sometimesheartbreaking stories.

“We have to educate people, we have to get people to spend the money to train their dogs so that they are good family members,” explained Piasta.

“This is why I do this, why I am trying to raise money with the sales of the calendars; but also to showcase stories that show what these dogs have gone through, and how they have enhanced the lives of those who rescued them.”

Piasta may be selling calendars right now, but in a few months, he will be working to get ready for the second annual Niverville Pet Adoption Fair, which is taking place May 11 in Niverville. He has also brought in a line of collars from Friendly Dog Collars in the United Kingdom and the profits from those are going in support of pet rescues.

“I am but one of a small group who are trying to do something about the problem, but we all can help,” Piasta said.

Anyone wishing to purchase a calendar or businesses wanting to sell them can contact Piasta at 388-9676. Calendars will be available at a variety of local locations in Niverville for $10 each. All profits will go to help shelters and possibly towards starting a spay and neuter program.

Calendars are also available through the adoption fair’s website at dogadoptionmb.com. The site is linked to over twenty rescuers across Manitoba that either has dogs available for adoption or is looking for foster parents for animals waiting to be adopted.

Each month of this fundraising calendar features one rescued dog along with their unique story.

On November 2, 15 Steinbach Regional Secondary School (SRSS) Esthetics students were recognized for their hard work by Apprenticeship Manitoba Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade.

According to Aesthetics teacher Heather Toews, her class was recently named as winners of this year’s Apprenticeship Manitoba Awards of Distinction.

“Fifteen students from the SRSS’s Esthetics program demonstrated their creative, artistic and skilled abilities in their presentation of ‘Mini Masterpiece’,” stated Toews.

“These students [spent] countless hours working diligently at the fine detail of their creations.”

The group was officially recognized by Apprenticeship Manitoba Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade during an awards gala dinner.

14

Tourism Minister Takes In Arts Council

Emergency Services Resume at Ste. Anne Hospital After a few months of disrupted service, a number of medical services normally offered at the Ste. Anne Hospital were available once again in the first week of November, including the re-opening of 11 inpatient beds for admissions.

Emergency Room Services and obstetrical services are available along with the hospital’s X-ray department and laboratory.

Southern Regional Health Authority noted they are taking all measures to ensure patients affected will receive safe care.

“Health and well-being continues to be our number one priority,” stated the Southern Regional Health Authority.

Surgeries will continue to be performed at the Bethesda Health Centre until the completion of the new surgical area in the Ste. Anne Hospital.

The multi-million dollar project was expected to be complete by the end of this year. However, renovations are behind schedule and now the facility is not expected to open until February 2013.

Once complete, the $14.1 million project will have the current hospital expanded by 60 percent. The new facilities include two surgical suites, one room for scope procedures, a surgical recovery unit, sterilizing room, family room, staff change rooms and new electrical and mechanical space.

The service disruption began at the beginning of August and as a result, the Ste. Anne Hospital did not accept any hospital admissions. Patients were transferred to the nearest available hospital bed. Maternity services were also moved to the Bethesda Regional Health Centre in Steinbach.

Flor Marcelino, Minister for Culture, Heritage and Tourism, MLA for Logan (left) and Southeast Artists Group members (l-r) Ginette Perron, Kim Gwozdz, Marilynne Funk and Gerald Reddeko. The Southeast Artists Group meets every Tuesday morning at the Arts Centre to paint together.

Flor Marcelino, the Provincial Minister for Culture, Heritage and Tourism, visited the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre on November 7 with her assistant Elizabeth Parsons. The women were given a tour of the building, invited to meet the Board of Directors, staff and some of Southeast Artists Group’s members.

Pallister Raises Concerns over Ambulance Use Earlier this month Brian Pallister, leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba, voiced concern over the province’s ambulance services.

According to Pallister, there has been more than eighty hours where ambulance services have been in a situation where no units were available to answer emergency calls.

“If someone goes into cardiac arrest and needs an ambulance they should not have to wait in fear that one won’t show up,” Pallister stated. “Manitoban’s should be concerned and want their government to address this issue.”

He added that residents who live farther away from hospitals should be especially concerned.

While Pallister’s comments seem to be a general evaluation of the situation across the province, a local businessman said he knows why there are ambulances that may be unavailable for real emergencies sometimes.

Norm Parent, owner of Steinbach Taxi, explained that he has many clients who use his service instead of an ambulance to get to a hospital; however, there are times that are not an option especially when dealing with clients on social assistance.

“I had a situation recently where a client was coming in from Vita for a toothache; she called to get approval for a cab ride and it was denied,” Parent said. “However, she was told they would pay for an ambulance, so that is who she called.”

When it comes to money, Parent said this does not make any sense at all. He says it costs an estimated $150 for a cab from Vita to Steinbach while an ambulance ride costs about $600.

“This is unacceptable,” Parent added. “Not only is a cab cheaper but it doesn’t tie up an ambulance.”

Parent said the government needs to look into the entire situation, including who is using the ambulances and why in hopes of finding a better solution to ensure that emergency services in our region are not found lacking.

15

Search for Missing Hunter Called Off

Rempel Becomes a Lifetime AMM Member

By Marianne Curtis The search for a Winnipeg man presumed lost while hunting in the Sandilands has been called off but family members remain hopeful.

On November 28, police called off the search for Norman Brad Lambert (known as Brad) after nearly two weeks of combing the Sandilands Provincial Forest.

According to police, 46-year-old Lambert was last seen November 15 in the Marchand area on his way to hunt deer. He was reported missing when he failed to report to work a few days later.

RCMP Sergeant Rod Karpish led the search for Lambert.

“We had 15 searchers looking for the man’s pickup truck in the area of the Sandilands Provincial Forest,” stated Karpish. “We patrolled the roads on 4x4s and we checked all trails that were accessed in this area.”

Police are looking for information leading to the whereabouts of Brad Lambert who was last seen in Marchand November 15.

The RCMP also conducted an aerial search but no trace of Lambert or his vehicle was found.

“Any trails that have been driven down by either a vehicle or a quad are being checked, pretty much from Marchand to the Ontario border,” Karpish added.

Steinbach RCMP Sergeant Joanne Ryll confirmed that police have stopped searching for now.

“There is a possibility of another aerial search but that remains to be determined,” noted Ryll. Police are now investigating leads they have received but would not say what they are.

The RCMP had hoped to find Lambert before snow covered the area and buried any tracks but were unable to find any trace of the man.

Lambert is described as about six feet tall and 240 pounds. He was last seen wearing camouflage clothing and driving a black Ford F-150 truck. There is concern for Lambert’s wellbeing and a cross-Canada alert has been issued for Lambert and his vehicle.

Anyone with information is asked to call the local police agency or the Winnipeg Police Service missing persons unit at 204-986-6250.

Art Rempel, a former politician from Steinbach, was recently presented with a Honourary Lifetime Membership to the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) during their recent annual convention.

Rempel served 32 consecutive years in local politics. He started his career as a trustee for the Hanover School Division where he sat for 13 years. He was then elected to the City of Steinbach council where he sat for 19 years.

Each year during the annual convention, the AMM Board of Directors recognizes one or two former elected officials with a Honourary Lifetime Membership. It is given in appreciation for their outstanding and exemplary service to the Association or to its member associations, and to

Honourary Life Membership recipient Art Rempel with AMM President Doug Dobrowolski.

the community. They can participate in AMM conventions for the rest of their lives but they cannot vote on resolutions that cross the floor.

16

Public Health Forum Well Attended Taché Library Praises Lorette Marketplace

From left to right: Front row - Susan Berry, Michelle de Rocquigny, Marketplace staff Inez Kanke and Librarian Brandi Schmitz Back row - Elvira Plett, Yvonne Romaniuk, Councillor Bill Heather, Marketplace manager Ron Harder and Jo-Dee Huberdeau. Absent - Dianne Moroz

The Board of Bibliothèque Taché Library (BTL) expressed appreciation to Ron Harder and his staff at Lorette Marketplace for making it possible to raise funds for the new Library while at the same time increasing public awareness of their work to promote literacy in the municipality.

Board members partnered with Lorette Marketplace to encourage residents to support this local business. Manager Ron Harder agreed to offer a five percent profit on all grocery cards sold. Board members have been selling cards twice a month at the Marketplace on Saturdays and Thursday evenings before a long weekend.

Shoppers have been very supportive since they receive full value for the $25, $50 and $100 cards, which are already activated upon purchase.

People often say, “I shop here anyway, so the Library might as well benefit!”

Since the Community is excited about the prospect of a larger facility with more convenient hours, return time after time to buy cards, the BTL Board looks forward to continuing this fundraising partnership with Lorette Marketplace.

Over 30 people attended the first public heath forum hosted by the Southern Regional Health Authority.

The event, which took place in November at the Mennonite Heritage Village, was held to give the public an opportunity to speak to the new board and improve communications.

Southern Regional Health Authority CEO, Kathy McPhail was pleased with the attendance and overall feel of the evening.

“We are very grateful to everyone that was able to join us. There were many great ideas brought forward,” stated McPhail. “We want to hear what people think and have a two-way dialogue.”

She noted the size of the health authority could prevent challenges to communication so health forums could become a valuable tool in getting ideas across.

Over the past month, the Southern Regional Health Authority hosted seven forums in various communities throughout the region, including St. Pierre-Jolys and Ste. Anne.

Donation Tree, hanging at Main and Reimer.

17

Red Trees Described as Symbol of Hope for the Season In a continued effort to find more and varied ways for the public to support the Bethesda Foundation, the Board has unveiled new “$100 Donation Trees.”

Previously, Bethesda Foundation Board Members gathered to unveil the $2 Gifts of Light Donation Cards, available at Ste Anne Co-op in Steinbach and Mitchell and now they are eager to release the next phase of their Gifts of Light Fundraising Campaign. $100 Donation Trees will soon be hung down sections of Main and Brandt Streets in Steinbach.

Local graphics designer, Brent Manke, created the original artwork for both the donation cards and trees. He says, “Red is meant to be a symbol of hope and the circles in the design seem to mean something different to everyone.

Hope Begins with a Toonie Pledge Get behind the Bethesda Foundation by purchasing a donation card for just $2 and you’ll be helping to give the Gift of Light.

Bethesda Foundation Executive Director, John Peters announced this addition to their long-standing Gifts of Light Fundraising Campaign.

Begun on November 9, $2 donation cards are available for purchase at Ste. Anne Co-op locations in Steinbach and Mitchell. When asked about this new way for the southeast to show support for the Foundation Peters said, “Whenever something has to be built, Cancer Care, ER redevelopment, etc., the community has to come up with at least 10 percent of the money. While our projects involve millions of dollars, there are many people out there who may not be able to give Board Members and Henry Nickel (Co-op) with signed donation cards. From left to right: large amounts, but truly support the Darrel Penner, Henry Nickel, Marg Rempel, Milton Penner and Garth Reimer (Chairman of work we do, and of course those Bethesda Foundation). donations can really add up!”

The Board of Directors considers the Gifts of Light one of their most meaningful fundraising campaigns.

Traditionally, individuals and businesses sponsor trees, which are placed on the Bethesda hospital grounds. Through generous gifts, the Bethesda Foundation has contributed and pledged more than $4 million to support health care in the community with major projects that include Cancer Care/Birthing Centre, CT Scanner, and Bethesda ER redevelopment.

Ste. Anne Co-op General Manager Henry Nickel signing one of the first donation cards.

Lights, snow or even decorations. We really wanted to achieve something that would have longevity and be a sign of the season”.

WS Steel was quick to jump on board with the project and turned the design into 2-foot tall, red trees that will beautify the City throughout the cold of winter. Bethesda Foundation Executive Director John Peters comments, “This is just another wonderful example of how we can partner with businesses and individuals in the community to really make a difference. WS has been a strong supporter of the Foundation for many years… and we can hardly wait to see the trees hanging on lamp posts”. The Donation Trees will be tagged with supporter names for the first few weeks of the campaign, but then will remain hanging as a reminder of the generosity of the people that live throughout the southeast.

The Bethesda Foundation expands their annual Gifts of Light Campaign with the $100 Donation Trees that are available for sponsorship.

Above: Donation Tree presentation at WS Steel, from left to right - Gladys Derksen, Milton Penner (Board Members), John Peters (Bethesda Foundation Executive Director), Waldo Neustaedter (Board Member), Brent Manke (tree designer), Travis Neufeld (WS Project Manager).

Left: WS staff welding the Donation Trees, from left to right - Milton Penner, Travis Neufeld, John Peters, Brent Manke, Waldo Neustaedter.

18

Whilst Holiday Shopping Protect Yourself

By Marianne Curtis It is that time of year again when the streets are bustling with holiday shoppers. Unfortunately, it is also a prime time for consumers to become victims of theft, credit card fraud and other crimes.

The RCMP reminds shoppers to exercise caution when venturing out for holiday shopping and shop before dark if possible. Possibly coordinate shopping trips with a friend and never park in an unlit lot or area no matter how convenient it is.

Place all valuables, packages, gifts and recent purchases in your trunk.

Do this before you reach your destination, especially if you are going somewhere other than your home. This ensures that your valuables are out of the sight of pedestrians.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay for purchases through debit card, credit card or check when possible. When doing so, protect your codes from prying eyes and make sure to grab the credit slips. Identity thieves look for these things.

To discourage purse-snatchers do not carry more then you can handle.

Carry your purse under your arm. Do not place a purse strap around your neck or wrist; forcible removal could cause serious personal injury. When in a restaurant do not leave your purse draped over the back of your chair.

Do not leave your purse unattended in the change room or shopping cart even for a second.

Teach children to go to a store clerk or security officer and ask for help if you become separated. They should never go into a parking lot alone.

Pickpockets like to take advantage of crowds in stores, on the street and on public transportation. Many work in teams with one distracting the victim while the other does the actual pick pocketing. Beware of anyone who jostles you. It may not be accidental. People who carry wallets or a money clip should keep them in inner or side pockets rather than rear pants pockets.

Finally yet importantly, take big ticket Christmas present boxes to a recycler instead of leaving them on the curb for the garbage man.

Ile des Chênes Student Named Tri-Star Athlete On November 27, Alex Sabourin, of the College Regional Gabrielle-Roy Les Roys Volleyball team, was named Tri-Star Rural High School athlete of the week.

Sabourin, a 5’9" setter, led his team to the “AAA” Provincial Volleyball Championship. For his efforts, he was named the Dairy’s Farmer’s Player Choice Award co-recipient and the Championship MVP. Coach Pascal Guenette said that even though Sabourin is small in stature, he is an “offensive threat”.

“He is a very stable player on the court, never gets down on himself or other players and keeps the fight alive at all times. He is quick at solving problems on the court and runs a most creative offence,” stated Guenette. “Though smaller in stature, he is an offensive threat at the net as a setter that can score repeatedly and is an effective blocker. His defensive abilities may be even stronger. He is a great ambassador and role model for the sport of volleyball and sports in general.”

Guenette noted the grade 12 student maintains an average of 88 percent, while also competing in soccer, badminton, basketball and baseball.

During the school year, the Manitoba High School Athletic Association names two students per week as Tri-Star Rural Athlete and Athlete of the Week. To be named Tri-Star Rural Athlete students are chosen from all of the province’s high schools and competition is fierce. Athlete of the Week is geared towards students within Winnipeg schools.

Memory Tree Service Remembers Those Gone On December 3, the Southern Regional Health Authority hosted their annual Memory Tree Memorial Service.

The event, sponsored by the Regional Health Authority’s Palliative Care Program, took place in the afternoon at the Clearspring Centre.

Anyone in the South Eastman region who experienced the loss of a significant person in their life was invited to take time during the Holiday Season to reflect on their loss during the afternoon service.

Kathy McPhail, Chief Executive Officer of the Southern Regional Health Authority, spoke out for the event.

“The Holidays can be a difficult time for people experiencing grief and bereavement at the loss of a loved one, especially if it is the first holiday season without that family member or friend. Finding special ways to remember our loved ones can be very helpful for family and friends,” said McPhail. “The Memory Tree is one way of honouring our need to remember those we miss at this significant time of year.”

In addition to the Memory Tree Launch, the public is invited to decorate the tree with a personalized message in memory of a loved one.

Cards will be provided by trained volunteers from the regional Palliative Care team who will be onsite from December 3 - 23 from 10 am to 7 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Voluntary donations will be used in support of the (SHRA) Palliative

Care Comfort Basket project.

The holidays can be especially difficult for people dealing with loss or grief. The Southern Regional Health Authority would also like to

remind residents there is a free 24hour 7-day a week Crisis Response Service support line that people can confidentially call at (204) 326-9276 or (toll free) 1-888-617-7715.

19

State of the Art Middle School Officially Opens

During the grand-opening ceremonies, a key passing ceremony took place where a key was passed from one dignitary to the next until it got to Grade 5 student Matteus Froese (forefront).

By Marianne Curtis On November 7, the Hanover School Division and the local community celebrated the official grand opening of the Clearspring Middle School in Steinbach with a special ceremony.

Premier Greg Selinger was on hand to cut the ribbon for the official opening.

“This new school will give students a safe, modern environment to learn and develop new skills, and it will give families in Steinbach a new community space in which to gather,” said Selinger. “With support from the provincial government, creating the school has been a real community project, bringing together students, staff and the community to design and build this bright, energy-efficient building.”

Hanover School Division Superintendent, Ken Klassen, said he is thankful to the province for helping fund the new school.

“This school has been built to last and will be environmentally sustainable for many years to come, serving as a model for students and the community alike in our efforts to teach and promote responsible and sustainable living,” explained Klassen. “Hanover School Division is very thankful for what we have been able to achieve together with the province, an exceptional middle school that is healthy and inviting for students and staff and provides many flexible learning areas both inside and outside of the building.”

Clearspring Middle School is one of Manitoba’s first targeted Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold school buildings. The 93,000-square-foot school was constructed to maximize water efficiency, optimize energy performance, and use materials and resources that provide a healthy learning environment for students. The building itself functions as a teaching tool as there are numerous features throughout the floor plan that provide opportunities for students to learn about architecture, construction and design.

Construction on the new Clearspring Middle School began in midMarch 2011. It was built for a capacity of 800 students and classrooms for 700. It will house approximately 60 percent of the Grade 5-8 students in the Steinbach catchments area.

Students living northeast of Main Street within the City of Steinbach boundaries will be attending this school. Students living southwest of Main Street within the city boundaries will attend classes at the Stonybrook Middle School. The Stonybrook Middle School was formerly known as the Steinbach Junior High.

Until construction at the Steinbach Regional Secondary School is completed, the grade 9 students will remain at the StonyBrook Middle School.

Vassar Recreation Centre Goes Green On November 12, the Vassar Recreation Centre committee received a cheque for $28,000 for improvements to the community’s only recreation facility.

Dean Preteau, President of the Vassar Recreation Community Centre, said that the community is grateful for the funding contribution.

“Funding from WD’s CIIF program is a realization of our wish to have a new geothermal heat system installed and is the first main step in our efforts to “go green” in our community,” stated Preteau. “We thank the Federal Government for their support.”

The funding will be used to replace the existing oil and electrical system with a Geo-thermal heating system. The project is estimated to cost about $50,000 with $28,000 coming from the federal government, $13,000 from the province and $10,000 from the RM of Piney.

The upgrade, which will be completed by the end of the year, is expected to reduce the amount of energy required to heat the centre and decrease heating costs.

Niverville MOPS in Need of Volunteers

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Niverville are in need your help.

Currently, they have 47 moms in the program and more are waiting to get in. It seems the moms of Niverville have spoken out that they need the community, connection, and support that this group offers during the preschool years. The program offers a breakfast, followed by a creative activity or teaching. Childcare is provided with the MOPPETS childcare program.

Please help support them by volunteering for the childcare program that watches the children while they meet. They need four more volunteers for the January term. They meet every other Monday, from 9:30 - 11:30 am. This year the Christmas Coffee House is on December 10 and begins at 7:30 pm with music by Mel Bergen.

Please visit mopsniverville.wordpress.com for more information, or contact Sara at sara.dacombe@gmail.com.

20

Chamber Announces Year’s Winners of Top Businesses

By Marianne Curtis Four outstanding businesses in the area were recently honoured by the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce. The awards were presented before a sold out crowd on November 8.

This is the 9th year the Steinbach Chamber has recognized businesses and their owners for their contribution to the community. Awards are presented in four categories including the Young Entrepreneur Award, the Customer Service Award, the Community Involvement Award, and the coveted Business of the Year.

The 2012 Business of the Year award went to Penn-Lite Electrical and Mechanical. The company has been in the electrical contracting and service industry for 30 plus years The Future Leader award was given to Dr. Luke Singh, owner of Hanover Dental, for being a young entrepreneur under 35 years of age who has established or expanded a business in the past two years.

The Community Involvement award is presented to the business that demonstrates exceptional performances in its support of recreation, amateur sports, arts and culture and charitable or non-profit volunteer groups. This year’s winner was Prudential Riverbend Realty.

The Steinbach Chamber of Commerce took to the internet for the community to cast their ballots for this year ’s Customer Service Award winner. After hundreds of votes, the top three nominees were separated by only 20 votes. The winner of the 2012 Customer Service Award went to Source for Sports.

2012 Business of the Year Award had PennLite Electrical & Mechanical taking the honours.

Dr. Luke Singh, owner of Hanover Dental recognized with Future Leader Award.

Customer Service Award went to Source for Spor ts.

Prudential Riverbend Realty won the 2012 Community Involvement Award.

21

Niverville Ste. Agathe Childcare Centre to Open in January Collegiate Raises Funds for Garden

New CancerCare Hub Coming to Steinbach

By Marianne Curtis Cancer patients are expected to see shorter waiting lists for treatment now that Steinbach‘s CancerCare Centre will be turned into a regional cancer service hub.

On November 20, the province announced the creation of four rural CancerCare hubs including one in Steinbach where patients will see the installation of new front-line staff to ensure faster cancer testing.

Building on the first CancerCare hub launched in Morden and Winkler area in 2011, the four new hubs are part of an expansion of 16 rural chemotherapy sites throughout the province. The new centres in Brandon, Selkirk, and Steinbach, which will all open over the next year will better coordinate testing, referrals, diagnosis and treatment for rural Manitobans.

Dr. Denis Fortier, with Southern Regional Health Authority, said the new centres’ focus would be to ensure that patients receive treatment within 60 days of detection.

“We are really just enhancing services,” explained Fortier. “It will be more than receiving chemotherapy close to home.”

Fortier added the announcement pertains to services and physical changes that are not anticipated at the Steinbach CancerCare Centre.

To accelerate cancer testing, diagnosis and treatment for every Manitoban, the province has committed to hiring over 50 new front-line staff including 8 more pathologists, 35 more technologists, 2 cancer testing co-ordinators, and 8 new positions for social workers and patient navigators.

Southern Region Health Authority expects to hear how many of these workers will be coming into the region within the next few months.

The province plans to establish other CancerCare hubs over the next five years until there are ten hubs located across the province.

Snowstompers Club Grey Cup Pool Winners Winner of the $1,000 grand prize was S. Nelson, $200 winners were M. Smith, E. Delaine and C. Rapso. The $100 winners are L. Watson, E. Lebrun, D. Delaine, and N. Delaine. Winners of the $25 prize are G. Coutts, P, Fryza, L. Legros, R. Hudson, L. Hopkins, B. Tucker, B. Kohut, G. Rourke, S. Delaine, B. Sing-Fredette, E. Delaine, C. Marquart, A. Loaf, Kevin Brown and C. Cautley.

The Snowstompers Snowmobile Club Inc. thanks everyone who participated in our 2012 Grey Cup Pool.

Construction of a new childcare centre is underway in Ste. Agathe with plans for the facility to be fully operational by January, 2013.

“This is very important to our growing community,” said Councillor Jeannot Robert. “And would not have happened without Patrick Saurette, Le Coin Magique and the school fundraising committee.”

In total, the volunteers raised nearly $200,000, including a $25,000 kick-start donation from Alissa Doan and the Ste. Agathe organizers who claimed victory last summer in the province-wide Manitobaville competition. The Province of Manitoba also contributed with the Division Scolaire Franco-Manitobaine (DSFM) providing excellent cooperation.

Applications are now being accepted from families wishing to place a child in the centre, which includes space for 8 infants and 24 pre-schoolers by contacting Students and staff of Niverville Ecole Ste. Agathe at 204-882-2275.

Collegiate are undertaking a special fundraiser in memory of one of their teachers.

Angela Schinkel, Vice-Principal of Niverville Collegiate, said that the 20122013 school year will be spent remembering Dana Dueck. Dueck, who died tragically July 8 in a motorcycle accident, taught at the school for two years before her death.

“She was only here for two short years but she definitely packed a punch in those two years,” stated Schinkel.

“She touched many lives.”

After graduating with honours from Landmark Collegiate, she went to the University of Manitoba and got her degree in Physical Education. Her first job with Hanover School Division was at Steinbach Junior High and after three years, she landed her dream job at Niverville Collegiate as a full time gym teacher for junior high students.

For her remembrance, students and staff are selling purple bracelets inscribed with See you in a Bit Dana. The student body embraced the phrase Dueck used regularly instead of saying goodbye to her husband.

“It’s about remembering her and celebrating what she brought to our school,” Schinkel added.

The bracelets are being sold for a minimum of $2 each and hundreds have already been sold. Proceeds from the sale of the bracelets will go towards a welcome garden being created at Niverville Collegiate.

“It will be a nice outdoor classroom,” Schinkel explained. “There will be a special place in the park to honour Dana.”

Anyone interested in buying a memorial bracelet can call Niverville Collegiate at 204-388-4731 or email the school.

Sprague Volunteer Honoured at Medal Ceremony On November 8 at a special ceremony at the Manitoba Legislature, Elsa Laing was honoured with a Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal for her hard work and dedication to working with seniors in the RM of Piney.

As chairperson of the East Borderland Community Housing project, Laing has tirelessly spearheaded efforts to have seniors housing built in Sprague for a number of years.

While a portion of the centre opened a few months ago, Laing continues to fundraise for the next part of the project that includes the construction of 20 personal care home beds or supportive housing adjacent to the East Borderland Community Health Centre.

Laing was presented the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal by La Verendrye MLA Dennis Smook.

22

Steinbach Athlete Named as Urban Athlete Star On November 14, Ryan Kehler of Home Run Sports Urban High the Steinbach Regional Sabres School athlete of the week.

Volleyball team was named the At 5’10", Kehler led his team to the South Central Athletic Conference Championship with a thrilling 5-set victory over Dakota Collegiate.

Coach Henry Kasdorf said Kehler is a player who leads by example.

“His work ethic and competitive spirit make him one of the top setters in the Province,” praised his coach. “His ability to get the ball to his hitters in a consistent fashion is incredible. He runs the offence with confidence and understanding”.

The grade 12 student maintains an average of 94 percent while also participating in basketball.

Ryan Kehler as Urban Athlete of the Week.

Insightful Collection Looks at Humor in Farming The family of Mel Groening, who was a columnist for the AgriPost newspaper, has published the entire collection of his works in a special edition called Farm Philosophy in paperback and as an e-book through Amazon.

“Mel wrote because he loved to write. He was enthused by the idea of being able to share his stories and experiences with the readers of “The AgriPost” newspaper. In each article he would get the opportunity to share his joys and frustrations about life and farming. This allowed him to pass on the lessons he learned as well as the wisdom he had acquired,” says Elva Groening, his wife of 37 years. “His readers anticipated each article he wrote, wondering what he had experienced in the past month and what stories he would share. We’re excited to see this book become a reality for all to enjoy.”

Farm Philosophy is an entertaining, ten-year compilation of Mel’s “Farm Philosophy” articles that were published in the AgriPost, a monthly agriculture newspaper from Manitoba. Be prepared to both laugh and cry as the author candidly describes many relationships and life experiences growing up and working on the farm.

Poking fun at poor farming and business practices, money management and politics are showcased in most every article.

Both young and old will appreciate the flair of his unforgettable storytelling ability. Brace yourself as your opinions and perspectives will be put under a microscope, while Mel practically shares some of his gleanings from the most popular Book ever written.

Mel Groening, the author of Farm Philosophy passed away from cancer in July 2012 before he could see his dream of publishing come to fruition. He was a regular monthly contributor to the AgriPost, a monthly publication that focuses on agriculture and farming throughout Manitoba. Over the course of a decade, he published 115 insightful columns in the monthly publication.

His family has published the entire collection in his memory.

Farm Philosophy is available both in paperback and as an e-book. It can be ordered by visiting farmphilosophy.com.

Niverville Seeks Toys

An Amazing Gift Romans 10:8-10 ... 8) But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,” that is, the word of faith we are proclaiming: 9) That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10) For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. (NIV1984) When we get a little older we often, ask people to repeat whatever it is that has been said. I suppose we do that because we want to be sure we understood it correctly. After all, we do not want to mess up the story with half-truths! Especially the inevitable soon to be expected end of our time here on earth.

The question that is bantered about often is, “How do we know what will happen when we take our last breath?” Well, my answer is, “I am going to be in heaven.” How do I know that?

“The Bible tells me so!” “Do you really believe all that Jesus taught?” “I am betting my life on it, and I do not want to risk my eternal future on a misguided notion that all forms of life end after we have taken our last breath. I choose to cling to what the Bible teaches.”

This Scripture passage teaches that our salvation comes from trusting Christ, and that it is within easy reach of each of us. In fact, it is so close that we may have missed the point. It is as close as our own mouth and heart. By that I mean, if we believe in our heart and tell others that the Lord of our life is Jesus Christ and that God the Father raised Christ from the dead; my Bible tells me that we will be saved. I understand this to mean that when we believe in our heart we become right with God, and when we tell others of our newfound faith, we have just confirmed our faith in Christ. No one who believes in Jesus Christ will ever be disappointed; all who invite Christ into their hearts will be saved.

Another idea that really gets a great deal of attention: Sometimes we feel that we have to do something special to earn our salvation. I guess it is human reasoning that makes us feel that way, but that is not what Scripture teaches ... not at all. It teaches that all our good works really have nothing to do with earning salvation, even though I might think so! Not all the wonderful things we do, the special events and church services we attend can put us right with God. Now having said that, would you not agree that there would be something very wrong with us if our Christian faith does not move us to good works?

Salvation is not a payment or a prize for all the kind things we do or have done. We cannot take credit for it. God Himself made us what we are. He is the One who gave us a new life.

None of us would have been able to come to God without the help of the Holy Spirit; however, good works are a direct result of what Jesus Christ did for us. We are no longer strangers to our Heavenly Father, but we are actually members of God’s family, citizens of that heavenly kingdom. What a foundation!

Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of that foundation because of what He did on the Cross of Calvary.

I believe this is worth repeating; we all have a pretty good idea what God wants us to do. God has prepared long beforehand the kind of life He wants us to live, and has told us about it throughout the pages of the Bible and the ministry of Jesus Christ when He walked on the earth.

We now know that we cannot earn or deserve Christ’s forgiveness. However, an act of free forgiveness through the grace of God can put us back into a right relationship with Him. But, we also know that we can and ought to show how grateful we are for it by seeking with our whole heart to live the kind of life, which brings joy to the heart of God. Would you pray this prayer with me? “Lord Jesus, come into my heart. Forgive my sins. I want my life to change. My thoughts and my attitude need to change. I do not have the peace in my heart that I yearn for. I really want that peace, joy and happiness that will fulfill my heart’s desire. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will honour Your Name.” Amen Amen.

The Niverville Helping Hands Ministry is having a Christmas Toy Drive.

Residents are asked to drop off new and unwrapped toys by December 13 to the Niverville Family Chiropractic, Niverville Credit Union, William Dyck & Sons, Chicken Chef and Connie’s Café.

23

Celebrate His Spectacular Birth Compiled by Marianne Curtis

Steinbach Calvary Chapel Christmas Celebration – December 14 at 7 pm.

Southland Community Church Christmas Services – December 15 and 16 Christmas Services – December 22 and 23 New Year’s Eve Prayer Summit – December 31 (all night) Emmanuel Evangelical FFree ree Church Christmas Program – December 16 at 10 am.

Choir Candlelight Concert – December 24 at 4 - 6 pm.

Steinbach Evangelical Mennonite Church Christmas Eve Service – December 24 at 6:30 pm.

Christmas Day Service – December 25 10:30 am.

German Church of God Children’s Christmas Eve Program – December 24 at 6 pm.

German Christmas Service – December 25 at 10:30 am.

New Years Eve Service – December 31 at 7 pm.

Ridgewood EMC Christmas Sunday School Program – December 16 11 am.

Christmas Day Service – December 25 at 11 am.

Steinbach Mennonite Church Christmas Eve Program – December 24 at 7 pm.

Christmas Program – December 25 at 10 am.

New Years Eve Service – December 31 at 7 am.

Steinbach United Church White Gift Service – December 23 at 10:30 am.

Steinbach Mennonite Brethren Christmas Eve – December 24 at 7 pm.

St. PPaul aul Evangelical LLutheran utheran Church Christmas Eve Service – December 24 at 5 pm, 7:30 pm and 11 pm.

St. PPaul’s aul’s LLutheran utheran Church Christmas Eve Service – 5 and 7:30 pm.

Christmas Day Service – 10 am.

Christ Our Saviour Catholic Church Christmas Eve – December 24 at 7:30 and 10 pm.

Christmas Day – December 25 at 10:30 am.

Holy Family Celebration – December 26 at 10:30 am.

Solemnity – January 1 at 10:30 am.

Epiphany – January 2 at 10:30 am.

Cornerstone Bible Church Christmas Eve Candlelight Service – December 24 at 7 pm.

New Bothwell Bothwell Christian Fellowship Christmas Program – December 12 at 7 pm.

Christmas Service – December 24 at 7 pm.

Blumenort Blumenort EMC Christmas Day Service – December 25 at 10:30 am.

Silberfeld Silberfeld Chortizer Church Christmas Eve Program – December 24 at 7 pm.

Christmas Day Service – December 25 at 11 am.

New Years Eve Service – December 31 at 7 pm.

The first Christmas was celebrated centuries ago with the birth of Jesus Christ and this holiday is a birthday celebration. To celebrate, churches throughout the southeast will throw open their doors and invite the community to join in this joyous celebration.

We have compiled a list of church Christmas pageants, programs, choir services and even New Year’s services to help residents celebrate the season. These services and events are open to regular attendees and the general public, so everyone is invited.

Lorette Notre Dame de Lorette Eucharistic Celebrations – December 24 at 5:30 pm. and 7 pm. (English); 10:30 am (French) December 25 at 10:30 am (bilingual)

Niverville Niverville Community Fellowship Christmas Musical – It all happened in the Country – December 24 at 6 pm.

Word of Life Mission Church Christmas Eve Service – December 24 at 6 pm.

Niverville United Church White Gift Sunday – December 9 at 10 am.

Children and Youth Christmas Program – December 16 at 7:30 pm.

Fourth Avenue Bible Church Christmas Eve service – December 24 at 6:30 pm.

St. Malo Blessed Margaret Catholic Community Church Christmas Day Mass – 10 am.

New Years Day Mass – 10 am.

Paroisse Saint -Malo Saint-Malo Christmas Eve Mass – December 24 at 8 pm, Caroling at 11:30 pm

St. Pierre-Jolys St. Pierre Bible Fellowship Christmas Program – December 16 at 10 am.

Christmas Eve Service – December 24 at 7 pm.

Ste. Anne Dayspring Fellowship Candlelight Service – December 24 at 7 pm.

Kleefeld Kleefeld Evangelical Mennonite Church Christmas Service - December 23 at 10:50 am.

Grunthal Grunthal Bergthaler Mennonite Church Sunday School Program – December 16 at 7 pm.

Christmas Eve service – December 24 at 7 pm.

Landmark Prairie Rose EMC Sunday School Carol Family Sing – December 23 at 9:30 am.

Christmas Day Worship Service – December 25 at 10:30 am.

Landmark Christian Fellowship Christmas Brunch – December 16 at 9:30 am.

24

Identification of Stolen Items

On November 7 Steinbach RCMP arrested a male youth who was in possession of several items, some of which are believed to be stolen. At this time police have not yet been able to identify the owners of the items. The items are 2 GPS units and a Satellite Radio.

The Steinbach RCMP is asking anyone missing such items to contact police to confirm ownership. Owners are asked to have as many details as possible for their missing items available when they call and to call Steinbach RCMP at (204) 326-4452.

Ste. Genevieve Arena Gets Concrete Base for Ice Rink

Book Fines Support Hamper Drive Library patrons owing money to the Jake Epp Library for late book fines are encouraged to pay up during the next month in support of the community’s local hamper drive.

Lorraine Trudeau, head librarian for the Jake Epp Library, said the board has given the green light to support the Community Christmas Hamper project.

“All fines collected are going towards the Community Hamper project,” stated Trudeau. “Some patrons sit on their fines for over six months and pay them off when they feel they can give the money to a good cause.”

Collection at the library is not limited to late book fines. Patrons can also drop off their loose change, which will then be turned over to Community Christmas. There is also a drop-off box set up to collect non-perishable food items and toys.

Last year about $700 was collected by the Jake Epp Library for Community Christmas.

“Barrel Murderer” Suspect Re-Arrested on Drug Charges On November 2 at about 5:30 am, RCMP investigators arrested 36-yearold Corey Scott Tymchyshyn without incident at a residence in Winnipeg Beach. The arrest was in response to information received by the Steinbach RCMP and a subsequent investigation.

On the same date, just after 6 am, RCMP investigators executed a CDSA (Controlled Drugs and Substances Act) search warrant at a residence on Manitoba Avenue in the City of Winnipeg. During the search RCMP discovered a marijuana grow operation of approximately 80 plants.

As a result of this ongoing investigation, Tymchyshyn has been charged with extortion, three counts of utter threats, 2 counts of assault, 5 counts of Breach of Recognizance, possession of a Controlled Substance, production of a Controlled Substance and possession for the Purpose of Trafficking. Tymchyshyn remains in custody.

Corey Scott Tymchyshyn had been previously charged with 1st Degree Murder of 22-year-old Chad Davis four years ago. Davis’s body was wrapped in plastic and stuffed into a barrel and found floating on the Lee The Ste. Genevieve Community Centre committee accepts a contribution towards a renovation project from Provencher MP Vic Toews.

River near Lac du Bonnet in July 2008. Tymchyshyn was free on bail waiting for the court trail to proceed at the time of the offences.

The arrest was the result of an investigation conducted by the RCMP The Ste. Genevieve Community Centre will finally be able to replace their gravel ice rink base with a concrete “D” Division Major Crimes Services, RCMP Drug Section, and Steinbach one after a recent funding announcement by the federal government.

On November 30, Provencher MP Vic Toews was on hand to present a cheque to the Ste. Genevieve Community RCMP General Investigation Section with assistance from the “D” Division Centre committee for rink improvements in part through the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund Emergency Response Team and RCMP Forensic Identification Unit.

(CIIF).

Tashia Elias, President of Ste. Genevieve Community Centre, is pleased with the announcement.

“We are thrilled to have a concrete surface for our community ice rink,” said Elias. “The funding from CIIF and the RM of Taché has made this dream a reality, and we appreciate the support to become a strong community with more to offer our residents.”

Funding of $20,964 went towards upgrading the ice rink base from gravel to concrete. The upgrade has helped make the facility more functional by improving public accessibility and allowing it to be used for a wider range of sports, recreational activities and community events throughout the year.

CIIF supports, on a cost-shared basis, repairs and improvements to existing community infrastructure accessible to the public. Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) is delivers the fund in western Canada with an On November 9 at 8 pm, St. Pierreallocation of $46.2 million over two years.

Jolys RCMP received a complaint of a break and enter that had occurred at a residence in Niverville.

Investigation revealed that a quantity of jewelry had been stolen from the residence.

A grey mountain bike was left behind at the scene. Police believe this was being used by the suspect(s).

At about 10 pm, RCMP received a complaint of a stolen pickup truck, also from a residence in Niverville.

RCMP ask that homeowners in rural communities remember to secure their homes, sheds and garages, and keep vehicles locked and see that keys not be left in vehicles.

Anyone with information regarding these thefts is asked to call the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP at 204433-7908 or their local police agency.

If you wish to remain anonymous you can also call Manitoba Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com or Text Tipman plus your message to CRIMES (274637).

RCMP Investigate Niverville Jewel Thief

25

26

Steinbach RCMP Investigate Fatal Two-Vehicle Collision On November 30 at about 6:30 pm Steinbach RCMP, as well as local emergency services, were dispatched to the scene of a fatal two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Highway 12 and PR 303 in the RM of La Broquerie.

Initial investigation indicates that a 2004 Dodge caravan was eastbound on PR 303 when it was in collision with a 2002 Pontiac Grand Am that was northbound on Highway 12. PR 303 is controlled by a stop sign at the intersection.

The driver of the van, a 48-year-old woman from St Pierre-Jolys was transported to hospital with undetermined injuries. There were no other occupants in the van.

The driver of the Pontiac Grand Am, a 59-year-old man from the RM of Franklin, was pronounced deceased at the scene. His name will not be released. The lone passenger, a 49year-old woman from the RM of Franklin, was transported to hospital with undetermined injuries.

Road conditions and visibility were reported to be good in the area at the time of the collision.

Feds Fund Upgrades in Blumenort

Niverville Company to Build New RM of Ste. Anne Office The Blumenort Recreation Committee was thrilled to accept a cheque from Provencher MP Vic Toews for some much-needed improvements at the community’s recreation centre.

By Marianne Curtis

The RM of Ste. Anne council announced that it has awarded the contract for a new municipal office to Von Ast Construction of Niverville. The 3,000 sq. ft. building will be constructed at a cost of $697,000 and will be located on the same yard as the Municipal Shop, on Hwy 210 just south of the Town of Ste. Anne.

Construction is expected to start within four weeks and be completed sometime in early next summer. To finance the construction the RM has borrowed $525,000 from the Royal Bank, in Steinbach, which bid for financing. The construction loan will cost 3.05 percent over a 10-year term.

The existing municipal office in Ste. Anne that has served the RM for over 100 years will be sold after the move to the new offices is complete.

On November 30, Provencher MP Vic Toews was on hand to personally present a cheque to the community recreation committee for renovations to the Blumenort Community Centre.

“I am pleased to see our investment in the Blumenort Community Centre already at work, and am proud that this funding is making it possible for the people of Blumenort to have access to a quality recreational facility for years to come,” stated Toews.

Under the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF), funding of $27,148 went towards maintenance and renovations to the facility including repairing the building’s exterior and picnic area, upgrading the skating rink boards, washrooms and hot water system, and the installation of new flooring. The work done will improve the safety, accessibility and efficiency of the centre and will ensure it continues to serve the community long-term.

RM of Hanover Reeve Stan Toews was thankful for the extra funding.

“The Rural Municipality of Hanover is thankful to receive this funding under the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund,” added the Reeve. “The partnership between the Government of Canada, the RM of Hanover and the Blumenort Recreation Association will allow the Town of Blumenort to continue to provide quality recreation to residents at this very important time of community growth and development.”

CIIF supports, on a cost-shared basis, repairs and improvements to existing community infrastructure accessible to the public. Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) is delivering the Fund in western Canada with an allocation of $46.2 million over two years.

Council Looking to Slow Down Drivers in Hanover The RM of Hanover council recently submitted requests for changes to speed zones.

Chief Administrative Officer Luc Lahaie says the communities of Blumenort, Grunthal, Kleefeld and New Bothwell are growing and yet the speed limit signs in each of these communities have not been moved to keep pace with growth. Lahaie presented the request last week at a Highway Traffic Board hearing in Winnipeg.

“Basically these applications came upon the public request for the reduced speed limits in the more densely populated areas of the municipality,” he says. “Also in an effort to make all the LUD’s in the communities’ uniform to match the growth of the communities that they’ve had as of late.” Lahaie also noted that this is a safety concern.

“With development it brings in new families,” he says. “With families there’s always the chance of children unfortunately sometimes playing on the road, which they’re really not supposed to.” He adds more residents are jogging and walking along roadways and this request is to ensure safety.

Council would like to see speed buffer zones set up for each of these communities and stress that it is quite common that speed limits drop from 90 or 100 km/h down to 70 or 80 km/h before hitting 50 km/h. However, Lahaie says in Hanover they often drop from 90 or 100 km/h right down to 50 km/h.

Council is hoping to hear a response from the Highway Traffic Board in the coming weeks.

Shoplifter Nabbed in Steinbach

On Friday, November 16, at approximately 10 am, the Steinbach RCMP responded to a shoplifting complaint at the Real Canadian Superstore on Highway 12 North. The store manager reported that a female suspect, known to be part of an organized shoplifting ring, was seen shopping in the store. The female proceeded to leave the store without paying for her groceries and was apprehended by police.

The female, who was identified as Marlene Paul, a 36-yearold resident of Winnipeg, was charged with Theft Under $5,000 and remanded into custody.

27

Selinger Meets with Steinbach Mayor

Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen discussed many issues with Premier Greg Selinger during his recent visit to the community.

The City of Steinbach Mayor was thrilled when Premier Greg Selinger paid the community a visit at the beginning of November.

Mayor Chris Goertzen said this was the first visit by the Premier and some of his cabinet to the city in over a decade.

“This visit was an opportunity to show first hand the growth and challenges we face and the important role the provincial government can play to help improve quality of life for our citizens,” said Goertzen.

“It was great having them here.”

Council took the opportunity to highlight Steinbach’s infrastructure requirements to the Premier and cabinet on their first visit to the city in more than a decade.

Goertzen said council was grateful to be able to express their specific concerns to Selinger.

“We have a tremendous need for affordable personal care home beds for seniors as well as improvements to highway intersections,” Goertzen added.

Other topics of discussion included the increase of traffic on provincial highways 12 and 52 within Steinbach and the need for recreation and cultural facilities.

Goertzen Challenges Premier on Broken Balanced Budget Promise Steinbach MLA, Kelvin Goertzen, used the first Question Period of the new session of the Manitoba Legislature recently to question Premier Greg Selinger about his broken promise to balance the provincial budget by 2014.

The NDP Premier backed away from his previous promise to bring the provincial budget into balance by 2014. Despite record tax increases and record transfer payments from Ottawa, the NDP now say they will not balance their budget as promised.

“There is a significant credibility gap between what Premier Selinger says he is going to do and what he actually does.”

“The overall finances of the province are in trouble,” said Goertzen.

“It’s not enough to say it’s the result of the flood or external factors.

When you really look at the provincial books, you see that the reason the NDP are running record deficits is primarily because of NDP mismanagement and overspending in all areas of government.”

Goertzen asked the Premier in Question Period why, after breaking his promise not to raise taxes and now breaking his promise to balance the budget in 2014, Manitobans should have confidence in any other promise the Premier makes.

“There is a significant credibility gap between what Premier Selinger says he is going to do and what he actually does. That is concerning in itself, but what I am most concerned about is the fact the province cannot keep running deficits indefinitely,” said Goertzen.

Goertzen noted that the provincial debt has doubled since the NDP government came to office.

Town of Ste. Anne Implements Equal Taxation The Town of Ste. Anne has proposed a special service bylaw that, if approved, could see properties normally exempt from paying for services to pay their fair share.

According to council, proposed By-law 17-2012 would see properties such as community schools and the hospital start paying for services provided by the town. These services include police, fire, road repairs and drainage.

Nicole Champagne, Town of Ste. Anne administrator, said that currently the exempt properties pay six mils towards part of these services while other properties pay six mils plus the remaining cost balance of these services through the general municipal at large rate.

“The exempt properties do not pay taxes under the general municipal at large mil rate,” explained Champagne. “The costs exist regardless; more properties will therefore help pay for these services.”

By establishing a special service bylaw, the Town of Ste. Anne will be able to spread service costs with all properties, including the exempt ones and the only way to do this is by a Special Services By-Law. More properties will therefore help pay for these services.

Vita ER Still Closed

Condos Take Over Ritchot The RM of Ritchot is seeing a major building boom with nearly fifty condominiums and multi-family units popping up across Ritchot.

There is a “real buzz in the air” according to St. Adolphe Councillor Jackie Hunt.

New developments include 18 condo/multi-family units under construction and 12 condominiums pending, in St. Adolphe, six multifamily units completed in Ile des Chênes and 17 more awaiting construction.

Construction also continues in Ste. Agathe’s Belle Riviere Estates and Gardenview in St. Adolphe plus a new residential development has been approved for Ile des Chênes.

It has been over a month that the Vita emergency room was temporarily closed on October 17. With the Southern Regional Health Authority, still looking for physician replacements, quality of care and patient safety continues to be at risk as Vita and southeast residents seek emergency care. For some residents emergency care is only available after driving up to 150 km to the closest ER in Steinbach.

Southeastern Manitobans including Vita residents lack cell phone services furthering hampering access to emergency care.

28

Keep Your Kitchen Safe this Holiday Season Whether the festive occasion is a family supper or a dinner party, people usually end up gathering in the kitchen. Make it a safe place by following these tips: - Unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires.

Never leave a s t o v e unattended.

Keep electrical appliances away from the sink. Water and electricity do not mix. If you touch an appliance while simultaneously turning on a tap or touching a basin, your body could become a path for electricity.

- As electrical outlets are in high demand during the holidays, avoid overloading the outlets.

- Although the electrical outlet on your electric range is a convenience, it could also be dangerous. A cord lying across a hot element could melt and expose live wires. Use electrical outlets located away from the range instead.

- An electrical cord dangling off the edge of a counter is dangerous for children and adults alike. When small appliances are not being used, make sure they are unplugged and moved to the rear of the counter.

- Always let an appliance cool completely before putting it away. Do not wind the cord around the appliance as this can weaken the cord.

- When bread gets stuck in the toaster, unplug the appliance before attempting retrieval.

- When using an electric fry pan, unplug the fry pan from the electrical outlet first. If the prong that fits into the appliance is disconnected first, it will still be live and could cause a shock.

- Always unplug a food processor before changing any blades or other attachments.

- Microwave ovens should always use a separate 110-grounded circuit.

- Keep a fire extinguisher handy in the kitchen area.

Gala Attracts Dignitaries

The Manitoba Electrical Museum Shines with Holiday Lights!

An enormous yellow turbine runner decorated with a multitude of holiday lights pulsating to the sounds of holiday music beckons your entrance to the Manitoba Electrical Museum & Education Centre. Formerly known as the Harrow Terminal Station, this 1931 building at 680 Harrow Street in Winnipeg has been modernized with contemporary design and innovative energy efficient technologies.

This museum showcases some of the oldest electrical devices invented.

Visit the museum from November 12 to January 3 and you are in for a special experience. The 8th annual ‘All That Glows’ exhibit features holiday lighting from the 1880s to the present. While enjoying the holiday lights, take in the extraordinary story of electrical development in Manitoba with retired electrical workers who volunteer as tour guides.

The museum is open Monday to Thursday from 1 - 4 pm as well as additional weekend and evening hours during the holiday season.

Group tours can be arranged. For additional information call 204 360-7905 or visit hydro.mb.ca/ museum. There is no cost for admission. Parking is also free.

Decorate the Outdoors with Safety in Mind If you haven’t done it already, it’s time to dig out the outdoor holiday decorations for another season. Before you put anything up, here are a few tips to follow to ensure a safe and happy holiday season: · Check for frayed wires, loose connections and sockets that are cracked, and replace anything that is damaged. · Check to see if the lights are safety certified. · All decorations should be unplugged before changing fuses or bulbs. · Never leave sockets empty. · Use only outdoor rated extension cords and light strings outdoors, and keep them clear of snow and standing water. · Decorate with care when working near power lines or service entrances. · Don’t let children or pets play with electrical decorations. Even small lights can produce a deadly electric shock if misused. · Be careful not to overload extension cords. They may overheat and cause a fire. · All outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).

For more information about holiday safety, visit Manitoba Hydro’s website at www.hydro.mb.ca.

Vic Toews and Jake Epp at the Niverville Heritage Centre Project Gala held on November 3.

29

COMMUNITY EVENTS EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT TO EDITOR@DAWSONTRAIL.CA OR FAX 204-422-8548

Hadashville Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great stress release and have an excellent workout at the same time. Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or email KSTA.academy@gmail.com.

Roseau River Winter Fun Day – On Saturday, December 8 from 1 -4 pm a free event for families to come and enjoy a day at the Roseau River Bible Camp. There will be cabin leaders to chat and hang out with past campers. Contact, Rod Reimer at 204-427-2445.

Shoal Lake Extended Grazing/Beef Nutrition/Stretching Winter Feed Kleefeld Supplies – On Tuesday, December 4 from 10 am – 2 pm at the Community Playgroup - for parents, caregivers and children Shoal Lake - Community Hall. Latest in Winter Bale Grazing ages 0-5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs and Management and how to make the most out of Alternative snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the Kleefeld Feeds this winter. Contact Carma Levandoski 204-867-6572.

Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 377-5013.

La Broquerie Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de Santé from Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Offers services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, the E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan at 424-5285 or labseinerss@gmail.com. Shopping Trips - Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm.

Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 1 pm. Cost $10.

Lorette Building Fundraiser - The Bibliothèque Taché Library is selling gift/grocery cards for Building Fundraiser at the Lorette Marketplace on Saturdays December 8, 15, and 22 at 10 am.

Perfect gift for stocking stuffers.

Mitchell Breakfast and Social - every Tuesday morning, 7:30 - 9:00 am except the last Tuesday of the month when the social is held instead. Lunch starts at noon at the Mitchell and Area Seniors Centre. Contact 204-326-6944.

Ev’s Second Annual Home Sale - Christmas decorations for your home or as a gift all reasonably priced. Free admission, apple cider & shortbread. On Thursday, December 6 from 4 9 pm, Friday, December 7 from 9 am - 9 pm and Saturday, December 8 from 9 am - 9 pm. Located at #31090 Rd 37N 21/ 2 miles West of McDonalds or 1 mile North of Mitchell Co-op and 1/2 mile East. Contact 204-326-1885.

St. Adolphe Parents ‘n Tots Story Group - Pre-Schoolers at the Bruce D. Campbell Farm and Food Discovery Centre. Thursday, December 6 & Thursday, January 10 from 10:30 -11:30 am. $2 includes healthy snack. Visit ffdc.ca for more information or call Siobhan Maas at 204-883-2524.

St. Malo Breakfast with Santa – On Saturday, December 8 from 9 am – noon a Pancake breakfast, Christmas carol sing-a-long, children’s face-painting, balloon making, craft creations and visit with Santa at the Blessed Margaret Church (Basement Hall), 5 St. Malo Street. Contact Lorraine at 204-347-5624, email jones-racine@hotmail.com.

Paradise Village Christmas Basket Drive Fundraiser- The Friends Who Care and the Paradise Village Committee, are organizing a Christmas Basket Drive to provide for families from the Richer region.

Please help us help others. Last year, 23 baskets were distributed. Contact or for contributions, contact Yvonne Fontaine Godard at 204-422-9369.

Prawda 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.

Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

Richer Enfant-Jésus Heritage Site’s Yearly Christmas Open House and Concert - On held Sunday, December 9, from 1 - 4 pm with 30 minutes of program, singing of Christmas carols, followed by fellowship.

New Year’s Eve Supper & Dance – at the Richer Young at Hearts Community Centre on Monday, December 31.

Entertainment is Buckskin & Satin. Cash bar opens at 5 pm, supper at 6 pm and dance to 1 am. Ticket Cost $30 each.

Contact Pauline at 204-422-6422, Julienne 204-422-5662 or Ralph & Irene 204-422-5932.

Monday Night Bingos - to raise funds for Stacey Pchajek Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating grades 8 and 12. Children Under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club in Richer. MGCC License # BI/BO4164. Contact: Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 or email doreen@spmf.ca.

St.Pierre-Jolys – Thursday, December 20 & January 17 from 10 am - 12 pm at St. Pierre Health Corner, 491 Sabourin St. Ste. Agathe - Tuesday, January 22 from 10 am - 12 pm at the Ste. Agathe Community Centre Lorette – Wednesday, January 23 from 10 am – 12 pm at Lorette Health Centre, Unit 6-1321 Dawson Road Mitchell - Thursday, January 24 from 10 am – 12 pm at Mitchell Fellowship Church, Hwy 52.

Free monthly bus trips to the casinos of Winnipeg for a fun day at the Casinos. Pick up in Steinbach at 8:30 am, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village at approximately 9 am. Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and $10 cash for everyone. Bingo on the bus. Call Marilyn at 204-326-4939 for date information and to reserve your bus seat. Next scheduled trips Tuesdays, December 11, January 8 and February 12, 2013. All passengers on the December buses will be entered for a Christmas Draw.

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 Steinbach 55 Plus offers programs, activities, services and volunteer Tuesday of every month at 7 pm at LBees, 5-275 Main St. Grab opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for older adults a coffee and discuss sustainable living. Contact of the southeast region. We invite you to come and pay us a visit and rebecca_hiebert@yahoo.com.

consider participating in some of our programs. For more information drop

Seniors (60 +) Shinny Drop-in Hockey - every Monday from by the Centre, Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm, call 204-320-4600 or online 10 -11 am at Centennial Arena. Contact Bob Barrow at 392- steinbach55plus.com.

3596 or email bob.r.barrow@gmail.com.

Membership at Steinbach 55 Plus is only $25 per year due in January of

St. Pierre-Jolys Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression support group meetings held on the 4th Tuesday of every month at 7 The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon at pm. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital. Contact Steinbach 55 Plus Centre. Contact Cornie at 326-3155.

Judy Dunn 444-5228.

Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for family Ste. Anne and friends of people with mental health issues are held the One Stop Shop, Show and Fundraiser / Food Drive- For Local 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden East Christmas Hampers Saturday, December 8 from 11 am – 4 pm building, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email at Club Jovial, 157 Centrale, Ave. Christmas Shopping with eastmanmss@mts.net local vendors and crafters is a Fundraiser event for The Knights of Columbus Christmas hampers for local families. 100% of MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living with the proceeds from the silent auction, 50/50 draw and dollar multiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursday donation. Bring a non-perishable food donation or unwrapped evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place toy. Contact or to donate a silent auction prize, Pat at 204-422- apartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services 5523 or pmcpherson@hotmail.ca.

Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca.

Songs of Christmas - The choirs of Ste. Anne on Sunday, December 9 at 2:30 pm at Ste. Anne Catholic Church. Free MS Lunch Group- on fourth Thursday of every month, from 12 admission. Bring non-perishable food or make a monetary – 1 pm at the Village Green Restaurant. Contact Nadine Konyk, donation for the Christmas hampers. Ste. Anne Knights of Rural Client Services Coordinator 326-1434 or email Columbus. nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca.

Niverville Niverville Helping Hands - Christmas Toy Drive. Drop off New and Unwrapped Toys by Thursday, December 13 at Niverville Family Chiropractic, Niverville Credit Union, William Dyck & Sons, Chicken Chef, and Connie’s Café. Your generosity will Bibliothèque Ste. Anne Library Used Book Fundraiser – Sale brighten a child’s Christmas. of huge selection of used book proceeds will be used towards new library books. For further information call Mona at 422Cookie Drive – We are in need of 100 dozen homemade 9958 or drop in at the library at 16 Rue de l’Église. Cost of cookies. The drive ends Thursday, December 13. Contact Irene books $1-$5.

Adams at 204-388-4071.

Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six.

Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62 4th Avenue S.).

Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com.

the Bin in support of Southeast Helping Hands. Begins at 6:30 include song and rhyme time, discussions and games on topics related to healthy babies and healthy moms. Door prizes, pm and 8:30 pm at the Steinbach Mennonite Church. nutritious snacks and milk coupons for all participating “Dragon’s Myth”- Book Reading Jake Epp Library, on Monday, expectant moms or mothers who have babies up to six months January 7, 2013 from 7 – 8 pm. Courtney Engbrecht is having of age. Contact: Terry from Super Start at 346-7021 or just drop an author book reading to launch her first book. This is a great in.

Grunthal – Tuesday, December 4 from 10 am - 12 pm at the book for young adults and teens.

South Oaks School, 202 Southwood St. Ladies Get Fit Classes - Sponsored by Eastman Immigrant Blumenort – Thursday, December 6 & January 3 from 10 am Services, every Wednesday at 7:15 pm at the Woodlawn School - 12 pm at the Blumenort EMC Church gym. Aerobic, circuit training, weights, mats and stretching Niverville – Tuesday, December 11 & January 8 from 10 am exercises. Suitable for all ages and levels of fitness. Register 12 pm at the Niverville Community Fellowship on 3rd Ave. Ste. Anne – Wednesday, December 12 & January 9 from 10 contact Lois 204-346-6609. am – 12 pm at the Ste. Anne Dayspring Fellowship Church Hockey For Seniors (60+) - One hour of fun, exercise, Kleefeld – Thursday, December 13 & January 10 from 10 am friendship at the Steinbach Arena on Mondays from 10:30 - - 12 pm at the Kleefeld EMC Church 11:30 am. Contact Bob Barrow, 204-392-3596, St. Malo – Wednesday, January 16 from 10 am - 12 pm at St. bob.r.barrow@gmail.com or Darrell Delong, 204-371-0229, Malo School, A - 189 St. Malo St. djdlong@mymts.net.

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.

Seine River Services for Seniors – Invite all seniors interested in the Wii Bowling game to come, try it out, and have fun.

Monday afternoons, at Le Club Jovial. Contact: Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5575 Community Resource Coordinator for local Ste. Anne services or e-mail labseinerss@gmail.com.

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.

Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Centre on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. Tuesday, December 11 From 6:30 – 8 pm. Selection of books in both French and English, all ages. Over 21,000 books including audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, large print books and magazines plus they can import books from any library in Manitoba. Special requests can be made to the librarian, Brandi Schmitz at 204878 - 9488, bibliotachelibrary.com or in person.

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. Thursday evenings starting at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, Contact Doreen 204-326-7525.

Steinbach AA 12 Step Recovery Program - Meetings are held Steinbach on Wednesdays at 7 pm. Steinbach United Church, 541 Main Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra - presents Holiday Pops on St. Ring the front door bell.

Tuesday, December 4 at 7:30 pm at the Steinbach Mennonite Church. Contact 204-346-1077 or wso.ca.

Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group starts at 4:30 pm at Anna’s House B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact 346-0413.

The Keenagers Choir – On Thursday, December 6, starts at 2pm at the Mennonite Brethern Church Sanctuary. 340 Second Vita St. An offering will be taken for South East Helping Hands. Beef and Forage Days – On Monday, January 7, 2013 from 9 am – 4 pm at Sponsored by MAFRI. Contact Peter Petrash NaNoWriMo TGIO Registrants Brunch – On Saturday, December 204-425-5054 or Ben Hamm 204-425-5050.

8 from 9 – 10 am at the MPR in the Jake Epp Public Library program registrants of NaNoWriMo. Whitemouth Quilt Club- Every Monday from 4 – 6 pm at the Whitemouth A Gardener’s Christmas - Steinbach and Area Garden Club School in the Home Ec Room. Cost $10 per session. Contact: meeting- an event for SAGC gardeners and their guests. On Patti Enns 204-369-5577 or penns54@gmail.com.

Monday, December 10 starting at 7 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village, Steinbach Shotokan Karate – For all ages, this martial art uses only the body to promote fitness, self-defense and confidence. Cost: Sponsorship, Donation Requests, How to Say No - Women’s $100 for all 10 class and pro-rated after. Classes held Thursday Business Network breakfast meeting on Wednesday, December at 7 pm days at the Whitemouth School Gym. Contact Michel 12 at 7:30 am, Uncle Jake’s Restaurant. womensbiz.ca for or Jenny to 204- 348-2473 more details.

Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises with cool Healthy Eating Cooking Classes - held every other week at down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean South East Helping Hands 525 Main Street, Tuesday, December runners and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class. Mondays 4 from 5 – 7 pm on Thursday, January 10 from 11 am – 1 pm from 6 -7 pm, in the Whitemouth School Gym. Contact Carolien & Thursday, January 24 from 5 – 7 pm. Learn about meals on 204-348-2932. a budget. Contact Carol Vogt Funk at 326-2599 southeasthelpinghands@gmail.com.

General The Super Start Program, A Healthy Baby program with the SRSS Christmas Concerts - On Thursday, December 20, all are Southern Regional Health Authority. Program for pregnant invited to the annual Christmas Concerts. Cost $2 or a Tin for women and families with infants up to one year of age. Sessions

each year for those 55 years of age and older. Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice in business meetings, voting rights, and eligibility to serve on the board or committees.

The centre will be CLOSED on Tuesday, December 25, Wednesday, December 26 and Thursday, January 1 for the holidays. Will reopen and all regular programs will continue for the rest of the month.

Up and Coming Events: Birthday Party - The first Wednesday of the month, December 5. All members with a birthday in that month are invited for complimentary cake and coffee. Guests are asked to pay $2.

Thursday, December 13 starting at 6 pm - is our Annual Christmas Banquet. Cost $15 for members and $18 for non-members. Tickets MUST be purchased no later than Friday, December 7.The Steinbach 55 Plus Choir will entertain us with the sounds of Christmas.

The Old Time Country Band will be practicing on Wednesday, December 12 and 19 in the Auditorium for those who would like to come and watch.

Meals on Wheels Christmas Dinner – Join us on Friday, December 21.

Cost is $5. Reserve ahead of time.

The 10th Annual 55 Plus Fundraising Banquet is Monday, January 28.

Tickets are $40, includes a $25 tax receipt per ticket. Raffle tickets are available at 4 for $5 and 10 for $10. Prizes to be won. Tickets available at the centre.

Workshops/Groups - Monthly Programs: Foot Care - The first and third Tuesday of the month from 9 am - 3 pm.

Run by a professional foot care nurse. Cost $30. Bring your own towel.

Call the centre to book an appointment.

Beltone Hearing - The third Friday of each month. Call 1-800-661-2653 for appointment.

Dance Lessons - Most Tuesdays and Thursday at 7 pm. Check schedule.

Single Ladies’ Night Out - The first Friday of the month at 5 pm. Enjoy supper out at a local restaurant. Call the centre for the place to meet.

Weekly Programs Monday 9:30 - 10:30 am Fitness Class with DVD 1 – 4:30 pm Model Trains 1 pm Canasta 6 pm Wood Carving 7:30 pm Tai Chi Tuesday 8:30 am - 3 pm Circle of friends Adult Day Program Wednesday 9:30 am Tai Chi 10 am Choir Practice 1 pm - 4 pm Cribbage 1:30 pm Floor curling 7 pm Old Time Country Band Practice Thursday 9:30 am Fitness 1 - 4 pm Whist Friday 8:30 - 3 pm Circle of friends Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $5. Call 204-3204605 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.

Monday to Friday 1 - 4 pm – Billiards 9 am - 12 pm and 1 - 4 pm - Computer Lab. Cost $1. Lessons available every other Wednesday from 9 am - 12 pm. Call the Center for more information and to book an appointment.

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

30

Burn Ban Violators Subject to Fines in De Salaberry

La Broquerie Takes Action on Behalf of Residents

In the new year, RM of La Broquerie residents will begin receiving notifications in the mail after the municipality recently established a new development notification policy.

The RM of De Salaberry has adopted a new policy that will see residents According to council, the found responsible for burn ban violations be fined plus held responsible municipality deals with several for costs. subdivision applications per year According to the RM of De Salaberry council, several residents within and concerns have been raised by the municipality have been in contravention of the municipal Fire Prevention and Emergency Services Bylaw. Council noted the municipality declared a burn ban at the end of August but several residents did not abide by the ban.

As a result, the municipality turned to the Wild Fires Act for direction and found that under the Act when the Crown or a municipality incurs costs, expenses, loss or damage as a result of wild fire protection operations, disobeyed enforcement orders or fire loss, they are entitled to be reimbursed by the person who caused the loss.

As a result, the RM of De Salaberry decided to initiate a $100 fine plus costs to landowners who disregard the municipality Fire Prevention and Emergency Services Bylaw and the Wild Fire Act. The new policy comes into effect immediately.

neighbouring property owners that they are not always aware of development in their area. While legislation does not require a municipality to notify adjacent property owners that development is taking place nearby, the RM of La Broquerie has decided they would create their own policy.

Under the new regulation, the

municipality will notify all property owners within 100 metres within the LUD of La Broquerie and 500 meters in the rural areas of any development applications. The new policy is expected to give ratepayers an opportunity to support or oppose an application before council makes any decisions on the matter.

The new policy comes into effect January 1.

Thieves Captured While Breaking into Hotel

Clarification

Contentment: Less May be More.

This holiday season I am looking back at the year and the events that have unfolded with new mortgage rules and how the Government is trying to reduce consumer debt. I am thinking about society and how we, as normal everyday people can do our part to make a difference for the future generation and still have a better quality of living without having more financial stress.

When we look at consumer debt we need to remember, what is good debt and what is bad debt? To put it plainly, bad debt is owing on something where you cannot recapture your investment in a reasonable period. Good debt is owing on something that you can sell and it would pay for itself within about six months, tops.

We don’t necessarily agree or disagree with the new Government regulations. There are both good and bad repercussions. We just think that the Government would be better off regulating credit cards and small loans, which are usually used for bad debt, instead of mortgage regulation that control good debt.

Another thing we can do as individuals is to buy within our means.

What often happens is that people buy a home that is above their means and struggle with the payments, often causing stress on the family. Then they end up having to try to consolidate loans because of other bad debt till the bank says “no”; potentially causing them to face bankruptcy.

We would be way further ahead if we bought something for a little less that fit comfortably into our budget and have extra for family outings, holidays, recreation, better schools (Private) and such. These things build strong bonds and relationships in family and friends. It also teaches our children better money management. This may also require children to have to share a room with one or more siblings. I know they all want their privacy today. But if we look at when we grew up, most of us shared a room. If we look at the way our younger generation interacts with cell phones, texting, e-mail, video games and such, they get very little practice at actual face to face communication and interaction. When they share a room, it forces them to communicate face to face with their siblings; sure, they will have disagreements but they will also have the benefit of working out their problems and learning how to compromise and share. These are all things that will come in handy in their future relationships at work, home, marriage, and friendships.

So when you’re looking at buying your next home, think of the purpose and future benefits. We should ask ourselves: “Is our current home fitting our real needs? Should we downsize to have better quality of life?

Is upsizing going to stretch us financially? How will it affect our children’s future? What lessons are we teaching them?”

We encourage you this Christmas to take some time, reflect on the blessings you’ve received and what we all can do to make a difference in our children’s future.

Till next time, Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year from Travis Olifirowich and Eileen Lewis.

On behalf of the Village of St. Pierre-Jolys council, the Dawson Trail Dispatch would like to clarify one detail in last month’s article called “St. Pierre shuts door on sewer connections.”

The last paragraph read, “An application on behalf of St. Pierre Lumber to hook-up to the town sewer system was denied at the beginning of October. The business is located on the north side of St. Pierre.”

Council would like to clarify that the business is located outside the town limits on the north side of St. Pierre-Jolys.

The Dawson Trail Dispatch apologizes for any confusion this may have caused.

On November 23 at about 4:10 am, Falcon Beach RCMP received a report of a break and enter in progress at the McMunn Motor Inn located on the TransCanada Hwy in the RM of Reynolds.

Falcon Beach RCMP responded to the location and with the assistance of the RCMP Police Dog, three adult males were apprehended in the vicinity and taken into custody without incident.

Three males aged 33, 31 and 21, all from Winnipeg, are currently held in custody and will face several charges in connection with the break-in.

31

Beware of Cyber-Scrooge During Holiday Season McAfee, the world’s largest dedicated security technology company, today released findings from the company’s 2012 Holiday Shopping study. The research investigates the online habits, behaviors, interests and lifestyles of global consumers who indicated that they would engage with Internet and mobile devices while shopping this holiday season. In light of these findings, McAfee also exposes the top 12 scams of Christmas that criminals plan to use to rip off Canadians as they shop online and on mobile devices for the holidays.

While Canadians have become accustomed to shopping online and many plan to do so over the coming months, they are also using their mobile phones for more of their everyday activities.

As 58 percent of those surveyed plan to shop online, a surprising 1 in 3 of them plan to use either a smart phone or a tablet, and while aware of the risks, most are willing to give away their personal information if they can get the value they want in return.

In fact despite that, 83 percent of Canadian smart phone and or tablet owners surveyed are at least somewhat concerned that their personal information could be stolen while using an app on a smart phone or tablet, more than

According to a recent Leger Marketing survey commissioned

by McAfee Canada in April 2012, an overwhelming 83 percent of Canadians have at least some concerns with surfing the Web. In the course of a year, the number of Canadians who believe they are protected from threats such as increased activity in the number of domains, IP addresses and URLs with malicious reputations has dropped significantly from 22 percent to 10 percent.

Furthermore, according to a McAfee-commissioned global study from September 2011, Canadian consumers place an average value of $48,000 on the digital assets they own across multiple digital devices, yet more than one-third of Internet users worldwide do not have security on all of their Internetenabled devices.

“Using multiple devices provides the bad guys with more ways to access your valuable ‘Digital Assets’ such as personal information and files, especially if the devices are underprotected,” said Paula Greve, director at McAfee Labs. “One of the best ways for consumers to protect themselves is to learn about the criminals’ tricks so they can avoid them. Beyond that, they should have the latest updates of the applications on their devices in order to enjoy a safe online buying or other experience.

We don’t want consumers to be haunted by the scams of holidays past, present and future. They can’t afford to leave the door open to cyber-grinches during the busy holiday season.”

eight in 10 Canadians are willing to provide some level of personal information in order to receive an offer that is of value to them.

Among those Canadians planning on using smart phones or tablets to purchase gifts this holiday season, more than half are specifically planning to use apps for shopping and or banking; as such, mobile devices have proved irresistible to cybercriminals, and now they are targeting mobile users through malicious applications. With 30 percent of Canadian smart phone and tablet owners admitting they do not pay attention at all to app permissions and 35 percent paying attention only sometimes, cyberscrooge criminals are ready to pounce.

“Every holiday season, cybercriminals get as excited as children on Christmas day,” said Brenda Moretto, Canadian Consumer Sales Manager at McAfee Canada.

“They know that many consumers will be spending increased amounts of time online to shop, make travel plans, or connect with friends and family. They even know that many Internet users do not have adequate security protection on their Internet-enabled machines and devices. If consumers aren’t diligent about surfing safely and protecting their personal and financial information online, they will make some criminals out there very happy.”

‘In anticipation of cyber-criminal activity designed to take advantage of the holiday spirits, here are the “12 Scams of Christmas,” the dozen most dangerous online scams to watch out for, revealed today by McAfee.

1) Social Media Scams - Many consumers use social media sites to connect with family, friends and coworkers over the holidays, and cyber-criminals use these channels to catch users off guard. Here are some ways that criminals will use these avenues to obtain shopper’s gift money, identity or other personal information: - Scammers use channels like Facebook and Twitter in the same way they use email and websites to scam consumers during the holidays. Be careful when clicking on or liking posts while taking advantage of contests, ads and special deals that you get from your “friends” that advertises the hottest holiday gifts, exclusive discounts at local stores and holiday-related job postings. Be on the lookout for your friends’ accounts being hacked and sending out fake alerts to all their connections.

- Twitter ads and special discounts for popular gifts are especially huge around Boxing Day, and they utilize blind, shortened links that may be malicious. Criminals are getting savvier with authentic-looking social ads and deals that take consumers to legitimate-looking websites.

In order to take advantage of the deals or contests, they ask users for personal information including their credit card number, email address, phone number and home address.

2) Malicious Mobile Apps - Earlier this year, both Apple and Google announced that they had each garnered more than 25 billion downloads from their app stores. But, as the popularity of mobile applications has grown, so has the chance that users could download a malicious application designed to steal their information or even send out premium-rate text messages from their phones without their knowledge.

3) TTravel ravel Scams - Before shoppers make holiday travel plans to visit family and friends, they need to keep in mind that scammers want to hook them with too-good-to-be-true deals. Phony travel web pages with beautiful pictures and rock-bottom prices are used to entice users to hand over their financial details.

4) Holiday Spam/Phishing - Many of the spam emails that shoppers are used to seeing will take on holiday themes.

Cheap designer watches and pharmaceuticals may be advertised as the “perfect gift” for that special someone.

5) iPhone 5, iP ad and Other Hot Holiday Gift iPad Scams - The excitement and buzz surrounding Apple’s new iPhone 5 and iPad Mini create the perfect environment for cyber-crooks to plot and carry out their scams. They mention must-have holiday gifts in dangerous links, phony contests and phishing emails to grab readers’ attention and entice them to reveal personal information or click on a dangerous link that could download malware onto their machines.

6) Skype Message Scare - People around the world will use Skype to connect with loved ones this holiday season, but they need to be aware of a new Skype message scam that attempts to infect their machines and even hold their files for ransom.

7) Bogus Gift Cards - Another tactic used by cybercriminals is to offer bogus gift cards online. Shoppers need to be wary of purchasing from third parties to avoid the risk

being scammed.

8) Holiday SMiShing - “SMiShing” is phishing via text message.

Just like with email phishing, scammers pretend to represent legitimate organizations in order to lure shoppers into revealing information or performing an action, they normally would not do.

9) Phony E-tailers - Phony e-commerce sites that appear real try to lure users into typing in their credit card number and other personal details, often by promoting great deals. But after giving this information, shoppers never receive the merchandise and their personal information is put at risk.

10) Fake Charities - This is one of the biggest scams of every holiday season. As holiday revelers open up their hearts and wallets, the criminals hope to take advantage of their generosity by sending spam emails advertising fake charities.

11) Dangerous e-Cards - E-cards are a popular way to send a quick “thank you” or holiday greeting, but some are malicious and may contain spyware or viruses that download onto users’ computers once they click on the link to view the greeting.

12) Phony Classifieds - Online classified sites may be a great place to look for holiday gifts and part-time jobs, but beware of phony offers that ask for too much personal information or ask for funds to be wired via Western Union, since these are most likely scams.

32