Dawson Trail Dispatch December 2023

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Many Communities on Santa Stop’s ‘Nice’ List This Year

December 2023

Ste. Anne Hospital Emergency Forced to Cut Hours of Operation Further

By Dan Guetre

The phenomenon known as The Santa Stop is once again feeding the Holiday Spirit throughout the southeast as the jolly one has committed to a busy schedule. Santa Thom is at it once again with his Christmas parades, community events and fundraising to collect food for those in need. With his sponsors and supporters help, Santa Thom is headed to 6 different communities to sit for Santa photos. “Bring a Tin for the Bin” is the main objective.

Those communities are Niverville, Grunthal, Mitchell, La Broquerie, Blumenort and Steinbach. These are on top of the community parades and festivals he will be at.

Photo by Shelley/Simply You Photography SEE FULL STORY ON PAGE 2...

The emergency department at the Ste. Anne Hospital is facing further reductions in its hours of operations due to staffing shortages according to Southern Health-Santé Sud. In addition, the Obstetrical services will also be suspended for approximately six months.

These changes are now in effect.

“The Hôpital Ste-Anne Hospital is currently experiencing a temporary physician shortage,” stated Southern Health-Santé Sud in a public service announcement addressed to residents in Ste. Anne and the surrounding area. “These temporary service changes will allow Southern Health-Santé Sud to continue to provide health care services to the community during this time.”

The emergency department hours will now be 8 am to 4 pm, 7 days of the week.

Southern Health-Santé Sud is hoping the temporary reduced hours and service can be reversed sooner than later.

“We continue to work very closely with provincial partners to help return to a full-time Emergency Department,” they noted, assuring residents in the region that they plan to keep everyone informed of developments as they occur.

December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Many Communities on Santa Stop’s ‘Nice’ List This Year

Continued from Page 1...

By Angelique Forest

While he absolutely did not expect this rapid rise in popularity, Thom Doerksen, AKA Santa, has been thrilled to see his “little Santa Stop” grow and Photo by Christina/CS Photography prosper through the years.

The phenomenon known as The Santa Stop is once again feeding the Holiday Spirit throughout the southeast as the jolly one has committed to a busy schedule.

Santa Thom is at it once again with his Christmas parades, community events and fundraising to collect food for those in File photo The 1-car parade concept will continue throughout the southeast. need.

While he absolutely did not expect this “We started this ‘Tour’ when the nas- ering together as a unit will help unite rapid rise in popularity, Thom Doerk- ty COVID-19 was around and we were us all,” he explained. “I really love to sen, AKA Santa, has been thrilled to see told that Christmas was closed for the see the faces of those little ones. All his “little Santa Stop” grow and prosper Santa industry,” he explained. “I was those wide eyes and joy to see Santa. through the years. not pleased, so together with our team I am fortunate to watch these children “I didn’t expect it to grow quite this and communicating with the Public grow year after year. It really warms much, Santa’s heart is full and very thank- Health Officer, we came up with a 1- my heart. It is all about the season of ful!” he noted. giving and this is a small way to show car parade concept.”

His goal, large or small has remained the With his sponsors and supporters my appreciation to those small towns same. “We just want everyone to have a help, Santa Thom is headed to 6 dif- that do so much for the people living wonderful Christmas,” he said. ferent communities to sit for Santa there.”

It seems the word has spread and more photos. “Bring a Tin for the Bin” is the As for the “other festive times during and more people are looking for that ex- main objective. Those communities the year?” Santa Thom doesn’t think he tra personal touch. Santa has been blown are Niverville, Grunthal, Mitchell, La would be the right fit. away by the demand this year.

“I do not look good as a bunny (there Broquerie, Blumenort and Steinbach.

“This year has been mind blowing,” said These are on top of the community pa- are pictures out there somewhere) and the man who was born to be Santa. “More rades and festivals he will be at. if you start to ask about Cupid, just and more calls looking for Santa to visit Listed by communities, below are the think about it, big guy with a beard in their Christmas events/kids parties.” sponsors who help Santa make this all a diaper,” he chuckled. “Not even the His Santa crew is his family and he is happen. children want to see that.” proud of how they have taken on their - Richer - Dawson Trail Dispatch, The Santa Thom’s Passion for the season roles to help him build this team.

AgriPost, Richer Recreation Commit- only grows as the years go on.

They include Head Elf Montana (Daugh- tee, and Richer Community Club.

The impact on the communities has ter) and her husband AKA Santa’s lil - Ste Anne – Town of Ste Anne. been immense, with Santa recalling Helper Glen Hildebrand (GMH Construc- - La Broquerie – RM of La Broquerie. that a single mother of 4 simply could tion), Sister from another Mister Shauna - St. Malo – MDM and Precision Con- not afford to take her children to see Sobering and of course, Santa Thom.

Santa. He admits it was instances like crete.

“With all the calls I have received, I - Grunthal – Grunthal Grocery, Grun- this that inspired Santa Thom to be his have roped in Santa Darryn and his wife thal Lumber and Southwood Ventures. best for all.

Mrs. Claus (Val) as well as rookies Santa - Kleefeld – Kleefeld Rec and GMH “I can tell you that the impact for me Ronnie and Santa Ray to help on some Construction. has likely been just as big as it was for last-minute bookings,” he said explaining - St. Pierre-Jolys – Rural Buds and those people. As we have shifted gears about how he required some additional Caisse Financial Group. slightly, I am offering an affordable help this year.

- New Bothwell – Hickory Dickory Santa for all. Santa is for ‘Everyone’.

“I also have some close friends assist- Decks.

[And] should not have huge cost on it. I ing this year,” he added. “Mark and Laura - Blumenort – Janzen Garage. have heard in Winnipeg that it’s almost Howe with their family have been big sup- - Steinbach – Hanover Chiropractic & $50 to just sit with Santa. What is that porters over the years and Mark is once Massage, Ledingham, Friesen Drillers, all about!!” he concluded. “While I do again covering for Glen on some runs.”

Zap Electric and BOSS Dance Acad- have to charge to cover my expenses, According to Santa Thom, many differ- emy.

I strive to provide an affordable Santa ent people in all the communities they visit Additionally, Clearview Co-op is experience.” have a hand in the events. There are lots of generously fuelling up his entourage.

You can visit and follow The Santa people on Santa’s Nice List.

Santa Thom has always held Christ- Stop on their Facebook page for a full The journey from start to finish was not mas close to his heart. schedule of events or have questions an easy one though.

“Family. Family is everything. Gath- about some of the services he offers.

The impact on the communities has been immense, with Santa recalling that a single mother of 4 simply could not afford to take her children to see Santa. He admits it was instances like this that inspired Santa Thom to be his best for all.

Photo by Shelley/Simply You Photography

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

December 2023

School Division Scrambles to Find Path to Balance the Books

By Dan Guetre Faced with an unexpected shortfall of $1.45 million in its current budget, the Seine River School Division has had to face some hard realities which initially included unpopular program cuts only to be reversed a week later due to massive parent opposition.

The school division discovered some errors in the expected revenues in the Spring and Summer of 2023.

“An error in the calculation of the Property Tax Offset Grant (PTOF) was discovered by the Province in May,” stated Wendy Bloomfield, Chair of the school division’s Board of Trustees.

“When our new Secretary Treasurer started on July 24, due to the PTOG error, we asked her to take a look at our finances. Over the next few months some additional errors were discovered.”

A letter issued by the school division’s Superintendent, Ryan Anderson, in early November did not mention the errors discovered in the budget. It addressed some “cost saving measures” the division was announcing due to “a comprehensive analysis of the division’s finances. The results indicate that over the last few years the division has been on a financial trajectory that has been impacted by the freeze in local taxation as well as volatilities caused by COVID.” The cost saving measures focused on two particular programs involving young children enrolled in the school division in order to cut the deficit.

“If there was 100% participation in the fee for services for KAP [Kids at Play] and K-4 bussing, the maximum revenue would be approximately $450,000,” explained Bloomfield. “The audited deficit is $1.45M, so no the fee for services would not have covered all the shortfall. We have essentially looked at every line of the budget to make in-year adjustments as necessary.”

This letter was pulled from their website and revised shortly after when it was later revealed that program cuts were actually due to massive accounting errors. Additionally, parents took to social media, even going so far to create a Facebook page to air their frustration. The page, Seine River Division (SRSD) Cost Saving Concerns, has grown to almost 400 members.

Bloomfield admitted this was not the way the division should have handled the situation even though they did expect push back from the community. “[In] a message to the community we acknowledge the missteps and regretted how things unfolded,” said Bloomfield. “We announced the need for cost saving measures in an effort to notify

our educational partners as early as possible. However, we did not announce anything with regards to the budget as we were awaiting the outcome of our annual audit. We received the results of our audit from our auditors on Thursday, November 16.”

While most believe it was pressure from parents that forced the division to back down from creating a user fee for the KAP program, Bloomfield attributes the reversal to discussions with fellow trustees.

“A majority of the trustees felt that as all families affected had other; yet indicated their participation, or not, we could not be assured of the potential revenue,” she explained. “Also, as the deadline to start at the beginning of January looming, it was felt that we needed to not proceed.”

When it comes to the budget errors, Bloomfield believes the responsibility lands on the Board’s doorstep.

“As of this morning, the Board sent a letter to communities and accepted responsibility for the errors in the drafting and approval of the 2023-24 budget,” she noted.

In her response to questions and through the jointly drafted letter, it avoids pointing fingers at any of those involved in the creation of the errors in the financial document. Much of the letter focuses on the proponents’ trust and appreciation of each other to navigate a way forward without explaining how the mistakes were made throughout the process to bring the budget to the board.

The path forward to rectify the shortfall of funds for the current budget is expected to be difficult.

“We have currently identified just under $2M in cost saving measures in this year’s budget (2023-24),” stated Bloomfield.

“Currently school divisions do not have the ability to raise taxes.

We expect there will need to be further cutbacks in the 2024-25 budget and perhaps longer. Assistance from the province, if any, is yet undetermined.”

While trying to fix problems for this year, the Board of Trustees also has to start the process for next year’s budget.

“As of November 28, the board approved an extensive budget consultation process, starting with an on-line survey which will be coming out the second week in December,” said Bloomfield.

“Trustees are committed to ensuring we ask all critical questions to ensure we understand what is needed to approve the 2024-25 budget.”

According to Bloomfield, their board has also requested an emergency meeting with the Minister and has a meeting confirmed for December 11.

“We have currently identified just under $2M in cost saving measures in this year’s budget (2023-24),” stated Wendy Bloomfield, Chair of the school division’s Board of Trustees. “Currently school divisions do not have the ability to raise taxes. We expect there will need to be further cutbacks in the 2024-25 budget and perhaps longer. Assistance from the province, if any, is yet undetermined.”

File photo

December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Anti-Pornography Legislation Bill S-210 Long Overdue Parental Advisory – this piece contains mature subject matter.

It is a rare occurrence when a piece of legislation is brought forward that quickly receives support from all political parties and ideologies in the House of Commons. That’s why I’m so pleased to see the House moving forward on Bill S-210: Protecting Young Person’s from exposure to Pornography Act. This bill originated in the Senate with Senator Julie MivilleDechêne and I’d like to take this opportunity to commend the Senator and her colleagues for their great work in getting the bill this far.

Just as we restrict children from the purchase of cigarettes, alcohol, and cannabis, or participation in gambling, Bill S-210 seeks to prevent children from viewing sexually explicit material online.

Bill S-210 forces pornographic websites to restrict their explicit material from being accessed by children by requiring age-

Read the Dispatch online at www.dawsonsontrail.ca

verification methods to safeguard children.

As adults, we have a responsibility to guide and protect the mental health & development of minors from the harmful effects of accessing sexually explicit content online.

73% of teens have watched online pornography. On average, children first view sexually explicit material online at 11 years old. Two thirds of children aged 14 have been exposed to sexually explicit content online and addictions across age and gender demographics is on the rise, with 28% of high school boys viewing pornography on a daily basis.

Pornography is shaping the views of young people towards sexual relationships. This is a serious problem for numerous reasons.

First, the fantasy and performative nature of pornography bares no resemblance to healthy sexual intimacy. This leads to unrealistic expectations for men (and women) that often leads to an inability to function sexually in a healthy man-

ner. This can range from relational conflict over expectations to violence against women.

Second, a 2022 French Senate report found 90% of pornographic scenes include sexual violence.

For years, my Conservative colleagues and I have raised the issue of the website Pornhub, owned by Quebec-based MindGeek. Pornhub owns 80% of the world’s 4.5 million porn sites. Pornhub had more than 42,000,000,000 site visits in 2019. In 2020, Pornhub reported a 24% increase in traffic.

By viewing violent pornography, young people are developing not only unhealthy and unrealistic sexual expectations but a view of women’s bodies as sexual objects, not as human beings. This dehumanizing of women leads to misogyny and violence against women. The Canadian Centre for Child Protection has highlighted the harms of pornography exposure on children, including an increase in peer-to-peer sexual abuse among youth.

Third, pornography is highly ad-

dictive. Like a drug, pornography quite literally rewires the brain to desire the fantasy of pornographic images over the intimacy of a human partner. Similar to the effects of social media addiction, this reliance on virtual rather than human interactions is further compounding the epidemic of isolation and loneliness among young people.

Pornography hurts adults, children, couples, families, and society.

Among adolescents it hinders healthy sexual development and distorts sexual attitudes and social realities.

Bill S-210 doesn’t solve the problem of pornography, but it’s a very good start.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Holding the New Government Accountable Entering the first session of the 43rd Manitoba Legislature, my colleagues and I gathered in the House in late November as we marked the occasion with a Speech from the Throne. As the Official Opposition, our PC Team will be holding the NDP government accountable for all of the promises they made during the Throne Speech, including making sure that they follow through on matters that affect affordability and the constituency of Dawson Trail.

In one such case, the NDP stated that they will be reconsidering the funding model for the nine schools that our PC government committed to have built in areas with growing populations.

The original funding model chosen to fulfill these projects was a P3 system, a private-public funding model that would allow the schools to be built quickly and to be open

by September 2027.

Ste. Anne is one of the communities set to receive one of these schools, which would also include a daycare facility. It’s important that these emerging communities receive these schools within a timely manner so that they can continue

to facilitate their growing populations. By choosing to rethink the funding model for these schools, the NDP government is delaying construction, which greatly impacts the affected areas’ ability to accommodate the growth of their communities.

On the other hand, something that was not included in the NDP government’s Throne Speech, was their position on the federal carbon tax and what, if anything, they plan to do about relieving Manitobans of this tax. Even though the NDP claim to be committed to making life more affordable for Manitobans, they continue to go back and forth on this issue, and they have no clear plans to address it with the federal government.

As the holiday season officially begins, I am looking forward to all of the exciting activities and events that come along with it. I have already been able to participate in both the Anola Parade of Lights and the Taché Parade of Lights, both of which were fun for the whole family and just a great way to get into the festive spirit. This time of year, there are also many craft sales and markets taking place as well. If

you’re able to, I would encourage you to check one, or a few, of them out and support local small businesses by purchasing a gift for yourself and your loved ones.

The season also means that Christmas is almost here! I hope that you all have had a wonderful year full of so many great opportunities and experiences.

I wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday season, full of lots of delicious food, rest, and time spent with loved ones. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year!

For more updates and information, visit my website at boblagasse.com. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact my constituency office at ca.lagasse@outlook.com or 204-807-4663.

Climate Change Concerns: Stupidity Is Forever And Ignorance Can Be Fixed!!

Dear Editor: As I watch global destruction occurring all around me, my silence is no longer an option.

Observing closer to home and what is in fact happening brings to mind an old saying: “Stupidity Is Forever and Ignorance Can Be Fixed”.

This is not meant to be an insult but rather a reminder that care blindness can have us very ignorant of things that matter without us realizing this.

If we focus on being able to fix ignorance, we first have to believe

and see where we may fit that category within ourselves.

For example, if I was asked to get behind a ship’s wheel and journey successfully from Vancouver to Sidney Australia, I would be awful ignorant as to how to navigate that trip with anticipated safe confidence and completion. This much I know: I could with proper instruction and training learn how to do that and eliminate my ignorance to accomplish that. Totally fixable!

This described visual just demonstrated for you how many of us can be ignorant towards the

urgent needs for us to address helping us in resolving climate change and the many threats that comes with that.

This is a wake up call for all to begin to see what part we should be playing to be helpful in the best way possible.

Truth be known, we are quickly running out of options.

White knuckle rides have been experienced by many of us because of climate change and Mother Earth’s frustrating anger. Expect much more. Mother Earth has a way of teaching us with great severity.

Our very lives and the lives of our Grandchildren’s future are in the path of this mix.

Question: Are we really addicted to the many heating systems around us?

I leave you with something to ponder: Once the mind is stretched by a new idea, it can never go back to its original dimension!

My very best to you and yours, My best always, Ron Nowakowski Lorette, MB

A Picture Worth A Thousand Words.

Submitted photo

Ron Nowakowski is the owner of Hole-In-One Enterprises in Lorette and promotes alternative heating sources.

December 2023

December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Rain Gardens Help Manage Runoff

By Angelique Forest Promoting Rain Gardens is an additional tool added to the Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District (SRRWD) arsenal to partner with residents and public space managers and tackle excess surface water.

Through their Rain Garden program the SRRWD provides funding and design support to property owners who wish to implement a rain garden to capture surface water runoff, rainwater, or sump pump discharge.

A rain garden is a perennial garden planted in a shallow depression designed to capture and use water that may otherwise runoff.

Rain gardens do not create standing pools of water but rather are a designated place for water to infiltrate into the ground (generally within 24 – 48 hrs of a rain event).

The SRRWD can provide up to $5,000 (50% cost-share) for schools and public spaces to establish a rain garden. They also provide grants of up to $500 to homeowners who establish a rain garden on their property.

A successful example of a rain garden would be at the Vita Community Child Care Centre. They were the recipient of the 2021 Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District Award. The award is given annually as a way to acknowledge sound environmental stewardship within the watershed districts.

According to the criteria, award recipients demonstrate outstanding leadership and contribution to the development and achievement of sustainable measures within a specific Watershed or in support of a specific Watershed District program.

Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District manager Jodi Goerzen said the child care centre rain garden collects water from the playground, the roof of the building and the sump pump discharge.

“It pours it off into a garden that, with native plants, encourages it to filter down, rather than run off,” she explained. “They actually integrated their rain garden into their outdoor playground which is something we haven’t seen done before.”

Another stunning example would be the Teichroeb Rain Garden located in Marchand. Prior to construction, the front yard was flat and without drainage while the back yard was an unusable wet puddle where sump-pump water pooled. The SRRWD partnered with the daycare to design two separate rain gardens; one to collect the water from the roof and the new play hill water feature in the front yard, and the other to collect the sump pump discharge in the back yard.

Applications for funding for Rain Gardens and other SRRWD programs are available at srrwd. ca/funding.

Perennials have taken over the rain garden at the Vita Community Child Care Centre.

In the first summer after planting, pumpkins were incorporated into the Vita Community Child Care Centre rain garden to keep weeds at bay and add interest for the children.

Building a rain garden can be a family affair. With a bit of guidance even the youngest members of the family can take part in this project.

The completed garden is filled with plants that will spread to cover the ground and take up the water from the soil.

Submitted photos

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

December 2023

Steinbach-La Broquerie Operation Red Nose in Full Swing On their first weekend, the Steinbach-La Broquerie organizers of Operation Red Nose have tallied up 23 safe rides given, transporting 42 passengers and their vehicles to their destinations.

The 28 red-vested volunteers have 926 kilometres under their belts with a few thousand more to go over the holiday season as more and more people rely on the safe way to take in those gatherings and events during the busy season.

The organizers are always looking for a few more volunteers to join their team.

To volunteer, simply fill out the form at rednoseonline. com or call 204-424-9555.

Now is the time to plan ahead and invite them to offer safe rides home for your corporate, family or holiday parties. By calling ahead, they will even try to ensure to have driving teams in the neighbourhood!

For a ride, call 204-4249555.

The 28 red-vested volunteers have 926 kilometres under their belts with a few thousand more to go over the holiday season as more and more people rely on the safe way to take in those gatherings and events during the busy season.

Submitted photo

Town of Niverville Releases Planning Session Outcomes for 2024 In mid-November, the Town of Niverville Council and staff met over a weekend to discuss what the next year will look like. In light of this meeting, the Town is excited to release their planning session outcomes for 2024, as well as an interim budget.

The Town of Niverville is focused on being fiscally responsible with its funds and is putting more money into savings in 2024. On top of this, the Town looks forward to paying down $500,000 on the Community Resource and Recreation Centre debt. Commercial interest in the community is strong and will continue to contribute to the growth that the Town of Niverville is experiencing.

These outcomes and the associated budget will see that the Town of Niverville will be an economically and environmentally sustainable community as it continues to grow at a rapid pace.

Some other highlights coming out of the Planning Session include a water tanker for the Niverville Fire Department has been bought and will be delivered in 2025; a working group has been created to establish the needs of both the Niverville Fire Department and the Town’s Operation Department as the Town works towards preparing to build the next generation of buildings vital for these servic-

es and the Town of Niverville has been investigating the possibility of installing water mains in the core of the Town and anticipates rolling out public consultations in early 2024 to share the results of the investigation and determine the next steps.

In addition the Niverville Recreation and Wellness will begin to investigate the feasibility of a “Take One Leave One” Library; the road repair package for 2024 has been awarded to Southwood Ventures for the rebuilding of 4th Ave South, Church Ave, and a section of Edelweiss Crescent, resurfacing of Errington Way and Hampton Drive, as well as the building of Drover’s Run path and a back lane sidewalk behind the MCC; the Town is looking to begin planning to develop a new green space on the west side; the Town will continue to work with RedSeine-Rat (RSR) Wastewater Cooperative to develop regional wastewater treatment and lastly completion of the RCMP detachment in 2024.

As well, Niverville Open Health is working towards hiring more doctors, as well as increasing the available tools that doctors will have access to. This includes the procurement of bedside ultrasound machines, a liquid nitrogen gun, and an automated blood pressure machine.

December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Operation Red Nose St-Malo Giving Rides and Giving Back

The annual safe ride campaign helps drivers get home safely during the holiday season.

Volunteers will be giving people throughout 20+ community’s rides home in their own vehicles to keep roads and highways safe. The ride services are on 13 Friday and Saturday nights that started on November 24, and on New Years Eve.

Operation Red Nose St-Malo will continue their ride services again this holiday season and this time will give back to non-profit community, youth, and sports organizations chosen by their ride night volunteers.

The annual safe ride campaign helps drivers get home safely during the holiday season.

Volunteers will be giving people throughout 20+ community’s rides home in their own vehicles to keep roads and highways safe.

The ride services are on 13 Friday and Saturday nights that started on November 24, and on New Years Eve. More than 200 volunteers are required to respond to calls on designated ride nights and ensure your safe journey home with your car. ONE Insurance Group (formerly BSI Insurance) will take on this role by “guiding sleighs” for one night, expressing their commitment to promoting safe road practices in various situations.

“Our company advocates for safe driving not only in situations involving impairment but also for individuals with disabilities or injuries that limit their ability to drive at night,” according to David Robin, Marketing & Brand Coordinator for ONE Insurance Group. “We are super proud in being a platinum sponsor of this initiative and we are eager to support those opting for safe rides by volunteering a ride team on our designated night. We are anticipating another enjoyable

experience, as always.”

The owner of Niverville Towing, Justin Nadeau, knows first-hand the importance of safer highways.

“There are some towing jobs that I do that I know could have been prevented,” said Nadeau. “I’m really happy to see these services being offered to over 20 communities along highways 75 and 59 south, and that’s why I chose to be a platinum sponsor.”

“Now in their 4th annual campaign, Operation Red Nose St-Malo has proven their commitment to the dedicated volunteers by giving back to the volunteers’ chosen group,” says Darrell Curé, Reeve of the RM of DeSalaberry. “We realize in most rural communities there is no taxi service, no bus service, and residents need to use other means of transportation if they are not able to drive. That’s why the Red Nose ride services have become a pillar during the festive season.”

Operation Red Nose St-Malo services the following communities: Arnaud, Ile des Chênes, Morris, Roseau River, St. Malo, Dominion City, La Rochelle, New Bothwell, Sarto, St-Pierre-Jolys, Dufrost, Kleefeld, Niverville, Ste. Agathe, Tolstoi, Grande Pointe, Lorette, Otterburne, St. Adolphe, Vita, Grunthal, Lowe Farm, Rosa, and St. Jean Baptiste.

More than 200 volunteers are required to respond to calls on designated ride nights and ensure your safe journey home with your car.

Submitted photos

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

December 2023

Apprenticeship Manitoba Recognizes Richer Landscape Business with Award

By Dan Guetre When Troy Barkman started a small landscaping business 8 years ago while still in college completing his Landscape Horticulture degree, he probably wasn’t focused on the awards and accolades he would accumulate as an entrepreneur.

Barkman’s Paradise Landscaping and Design has been awarded the title of Rural Employer of the Year at the 17th Annual Awards of Distinction hosted by the Apprenticeship and Certification Board at an event hosted recently in Winnipeg.

Barkman is no stranger to the award as he was also nominated last year and felt honoured just to achieve that level of appreciation from employees and peers. This year’s win after being nominated is next level to him.

“To be recognized by the Province of Manitoba on being employer of the year means the world to me,” said Barkman. “Especially to be nominated 2 years in a row by my employees is even more rewarding as it reinsures positive leadership in the company.”

Barkman describes his style as “ordinary” when it comes to the employer-employee relationship.

His “ordinary may be the answer to how he successfully manages his employees and the business.

“In the world we are in right now it’s tough for any business owner to retain quality employees,” he noted.

“I find that being transparent with my employees as well as hiring a diverse team is what sets us apart.”

Barkman fuels their enthusiasm with his passion.

“I’m passionate on building relationships with my team and getting to know each individual personally,” he explained. “With that being said, we’re a family, everyone is shown the same level of respect. I’m dedicated to teach my employees and show them the passion that I have for landscaping each day!”

Barkman believes that confidence and integrity plays a major role in achieving success and that must be shared.

“You must be ready to teach and mentor your apprentices daily to insure quality of work is being met, standards are being followed and all in a timely manner,” he said.

Barkman’s success is in part of his home life.

“My wife is my number one supporter and fan, she’s my rock,” he admitted. “We were able to celebrate together at the award ceremony. My daughter is too young to understand what I achieved, but she gets to hold the trophy!” Barkman is a fairly new dad.

His choice of career started to form at a very early age.

“My passion for landscaping was born from many childhood days working with my grandparents,” he explained. “Paradise first started out as a kid with a dream. I started this business with a small truck using my mom’s gardening tools and wheelbarrow.”

Troy Barkman, owner of Paradise Landscaping based in Richer received the top rural business award for employer of year at the Manitoba Awards of Distinction, hosted by Apprenticeship Manitoba, Skills Canada, and the province of Manitoba.

Barkman describes the growth of the business as “a slow and steady process” based on a 5-year and 10year plan.

“Once those goals have been reached we continue to set new goals to achieve,” he added.

Barkman’s believes his growth can be attributed to a few key factors and he has adhered to his vision.

“Being a certified professional in this industry definitely separates us from the competition and being able to educate our clients every step of the way is a huge part of our success,” he said. “Our education stems from the top to the bottom where our clients can trust the entire team to complete the project.

You’ll always know what you will get with us as my employees are highly skilled and professional.”

Paradise Landscaping and Design has a branding that goes beyond the logo.

“I make a personal connection with each one of our customers or clients, providing education on every aspect of their project and to create a custom one of a kind dream yard that can be enjoyed by everyone for many, many years!” said Barkman.

Barkman is also a member of the Richer Fire Department and recently achieve the level of Captain.

While always willing to support his community, Barkman also recognizes what he and his family get back in return.

“I would like to thank the community and everyone around who has supported and contributed to the growth and success of Paradise landscape and design,” he stated.

“It takes a community to support a business and the amount of support we have received is incredible.”

Rural, urban and vacation properties, Barkman tackles a multitude of landscape designs bringing a client’s vision to reality.

Submitted photos

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December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Reynolds Fire Department Adds Additional Vehicle to Fine Tune Response

By Dan Guetre

The Reynolds FD wants to ensure they can respond to any scenario thrown at them in the huge area that they cover.

“This truck has been outfitted with a little bit of everything to get started, for example, traffic control, fire extinguishers, breathing apparatus, medical equipment, vehicle extrication hand tools and stabilization tools.” explained Chief Don McDougall. Submitted photos

With an eye on making his team more efficient when responding to emergency calls, the Fire Department Chief of Reynolds has added a 2000 Ford F450 after negotiating a deal with a neighbouring department for the truck that they deemed surplus.

“We actually learned that this vehicle would be available for purchase when we were In Whiteshell as their guests doing live fire training at their hall last winter to get ready for level 1 testing,” explained Chief Don McDougall. “When I saw it for sale I informed council and they agreed that it would be a wise purchase for our needs.”

During his tenure as Fire Chief, McDougall has slowly built and trained the department to ensure his team can respond to any scenario thrown at them and he felt this truck was an important piece of the puzzle they needed to acquire.

“The role that this truck plays is that we have a huge area that we cover as a department,” he noted. “Many times, when myself and others from our department (Richer East area) respond from home anywhere from Hadashville west we are very likely going to be first on scene… sometimes with very little equipment to

get the scene set up.”

“This truck has been outfitted with a little bit of everything to get started,” he added, “for example, traffic control, fire extinguishers, breathing apparatus, medical equipment, vehicle extrication hand tools and stabilization tools.”

He explained that the truck could also serve firefighters when they travel to mutual aid meetings and any training away from the municipality.

“It will also serve as the tow vehicle for the department wildland trailer which has our side-by-side and water packs.”

As an added incentive to purchasing the truck, McDougall noted that it was “ready to roll” making the purchase price of $35,000 justified.

During his time leading the Reynolds Fire Department, McDougall says the relationship between his team and the municipal council and residents is exceptional.

“As far as working with council we have a very good working relationship with our Municipal staff and council,” he explained. “The lines of communication are great. It makes it easy to accomplish great things as a department with such great support from the residents of the RM of Reynolds and the Municipal council.”

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Tourond Creek Residents Seek Speed Reduction

By Angelique Forest As Tourond Creek, a development in the RM of Ritchot grows, so do the issues that can surface.

Debra Budgell-Short made a presentation to the RM of Ritchot council at a November meeting regarding the growth in Tourond Creek and safety concerns surrounding the current speed limit throughout the new development.

The newer development is located near the south exit of the town of St. Adolphe.

Budgell-Short defines herself as a concerned resident of Tourond Creek. She explained to council a bit of her background which consisted of working as a claims adjuster and public relations officer for Manitoba Public Insurance for 31 years. She added that she is also a Riverview Health Centre Foundation board member and for the past 5 years she has been chair the Riverview Health Centre Cycle on Life which raises funds for residents and patients of the Centre. The reason why she mentioned this is because Riverview has a Brain Injury Ward for people who have sustained brain injuries, many from motor vehicle collision.

Living on the main street that runs through Tourond Creek, Budgell-Short noted she has seen the vehicles speeding through.

“I’ve seen too many close calls,” said Budgell-Short. “We have many children in this area and school buses coming in and out, letting children off the bus, only for the child to dart across the street.”

She believes the Tourond Creek development speed should be reduced to 35 km/ hour throughout the whole development and created the steps she needed in order to approach the municipal council. She explained how she went door-to-door and asked residents if they would sign the petition to reduce the speed limit and noted how only two households did not want to sign. She added that although it was the September long weekend and not everyone was home, she knocked on every door along with help from some other residents over a three day period.

They secured signatures from about 75% of the neighbourhood.

She pointed out to council the safety issues involving construction vehicles and passenger vehicles going much too fast through the development.

“We do not have a dedicated entrance/exit for the construction vehicles to utilize and it appears that there may not be one for a few years,” Budgell-Short added.

Budgell-Short said the congestion of the construction vehicles makes it very hard to see little ones who are riding their bikes, rollerblading or running to retrieve their balls.

“I don’t think there is one Councillor who would disagree with lowering the speed limit if they were living in the neighbourhood,” she challenged.

In the development, children currently do not have a park to play in as the park has yet to be created and, according to Budgell-Short, it probably won’t happen for a few years.

“There is also a new daycare that is going up right across the highway and I’m sure that a number of families who live in Tourond Creek will be picking up their children from daycare by car or by walking across the highway, which is another safety issue,” she added.

Not satisfied to just rest her case on the support of her neighbours, Budgell-Short also presented information from various reports.

“Research has long confirmed the benefits of reducing speed limits in residential areas.

It reduces noise, pollution, the rate and severity of accidents and cuts fuel consumption.” said Budgell-Short, as an added argument to the speed reduction.

“I understand the Manitoba infrastructure has given the RMs of Manitoba the ability to set the speed limits for their own Municipality. I therefore respectfully ask that the RM of Ritchot Council to vote on changing the speed limit from 50 to 35 km/hour,” she requested before council.

When prompted with questioning, Mayor Chris Ewan didn’t believe there to be a serious cause for concern.

“I think negligent drivers are to blame, not growth,” said Ewan.

While council ultimately agreed not to reduce the speed to 35 km/hour, they did concede to instruct their public works to focus on getting current data on traffic in the development that they could potentially use to put out a survey.

Budgell-Short was disappointed in the decision.

“I made the RM aware of my displeasure as I had done that the year before and I was promised a response by October 2022, but I also understood that because of the Provincial Election our request was pushed back,” said Budgell-Short. “Now we will have to wait until they decide once they get the survey back if they will reduce the speed from 50 km to 35 km/hour.”

The Tourond Creek development only has one way in and out from the main highway. While council ultimately agreed not to reduce the speed to 35 km/hour, they did concede to instruct their public works to focus on getting current data on traffic in the development that they could potentially use to pit out a survey.

Google Maps view

December 2023

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December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Home Grown Pedestrian Bridge in Niverville Connects Drover’s Run and Station Park

A new cyclist and pedestrian bridge was officially opened recently connecting Station Park and Drover’s Run in Niverville.

Photo Credit: Town of Niverville Facebook Page.

In Niverville, a new cyclist and pedestrian bridge was officially opened recently connecting Station Park and Drover’s Run. Completion of the project was November 23.

According to the Town, the bridge is designed to fit to fit

seamlessly into Niverville’s pedestrian transportation network. It provides 5 feet of concrete and 5 feet of asphalt so both cyclists and pedestrians can move safely.

Additionally, the bridge was fabricated by Niverville’s own Fusion Industries.

While there were some challenges around erecting this bridge, revolving around weather this fall, timing and logistics, the town’s operations department were able to remedy this by installing the wooden walkway themselves, as well as craning the bridge into place.

La Broquerie Economic Growth Strategy Seeks Community and Business Input The RM of La Broquerie residents and the business community are being asked to share their ideas about how to boost the economy and enhance quality of life via a community survey.

According to Uriel Jelin, the Community Economic Development Officer for the Municipality, they are creating an Economic Growth Strategy, focused on job creation, and investment and workforce/resident attraction.

“The survey is important to understanding of what motivates people to move to La Broquerie, and how to nurture business growth and entrepreneurship,” he noted.

He added that the Strategy will guide efforts to support and grow existing businesses and attract workforce and investment.

“The Strategy also aims to connect the dots to a broader community development action plan that enables job creation, including: lifestyle-focused services/amenities, placemaking, housing choice and affordability, and more flexible commercial form and function for today’s entrepreneurs needing more nimble solutions,” he explained.

Prior to the survey, ongoing work included a community leaders’ workshop, data analysis of competitive economic sectors, and interviews with community and business leaders.

“From this work, some key themes have emerged and the RM has launched a survey to gather feedback from residents and businesses,” he said. “The survey includes visioning for the future, and sharing ideas about opportunities.”

The Strategy is scheduled for completion in Spring 2024.

A survey link is available on the Rural Municipality of La Broquerie website (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LK355YN) or you can scan the QR Code.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LK355YN

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

New Shuttle Service Aims to Fill in Transportation Gap for the Southeast

By Angelique Forest There’s a new transportation service in the southeast and it’s looking to make a positive impact on the communities throughout the region.

With their base of operations in Steinbach, Southeast Shuttle is a locally-owned and operated transportation service for residents of southeastern Manitoba.

The idea behind the shuttle was to give people an option beyond an expensive taxi ride, owning a car, or asking friends/ family to drive them.

Emily MacDonald is the Director of Southeast Shuttle and decided that after speaking with some family members, she saw that there was a need for this type of service.

“My husband has been travelling for years, parking at the airport when timing didn’t allow for someone to drive him, coming home in freezing winters to scrape off snow and ice after a long international flight,” said MacDonald.

She notes that parking is also expensive and that has only increased.

According to MacDonald, some people have been paying for a hotel near the airport that allows them to leave their vehicle for an extended period of time but those hotels are now charging over $200/night.

MacDonald pointed out that as more families are moving in from other countries, they don’t necessarily have other family around to provide rides.

She also found that those in Steinbach don’t always own cars and are taking taxis to work, but trips into Winnipeg were often too expensive or challenging to arrange.

If this wasn’t enough to justify the service, MacDonald kept receiving encouragement.

“In conversations with local medical professionals, it became clear that there was a need for transport to medical appointments, that there aren’t enough volunteers to drive those who cannot drive themselves,” she added.

Currently her only goal so far is to maintain the business and later, focus on growth.

“We want to grow the business so we can offer more specialized services and perhaps add other routes,” said MacDonald.

So far the shuttle offers pick-ups and drop-offs in Grunthal, Kleefeld, Steinbach, La Broquerie, Ste. Anne, Landmark, Blumenort, Niverville, Ile de Chenes, Lorette, with St. Adolphe being recently added.

Rates range generally between $30 and $40 per person one-way, and offer discounts for groups/families of 4 or more.

Currently, as a promotion to Polo Park and in keeping with holiday shopping, they are offering weekend trips to Polo Park for $35 per person if you can get a group of 6 together.

As part of their service they provide transportation to St. Boniface Hospital, Health Sciences Centre (CancerCare Manitoba), Polo Park, and the airport.

They offer 6 return trips per day including a night run to the airport for early morning travellers.

“We are servicing as much of southeastern Manitoba as we can with the hopes in Phase 2 to include a route along Hwy 59 which is just out of our reach now with only two vehicles,” she explained.

According to MacDonald, seniors are definitely benefiting from the service and have been overwhelmingly positive and supportive. Others who benefit are business travellers and those jetting off for winter vacations.

“I have received many phone calls, text messages, and social media messages of thanks,” said MacDonald. “Each day we are getting more bookings and phone calls as the word gets out. We have received many, many requests for late night/early morning rides to the airport so just this week we added a 2:45 am ride (in addition to the 5:10 am) that allows people to get to flights between 5 am and 7 am.

After telling one too many people that we didn’t have a scheduled run at night, we decided to add the service on a test basis until the end of March and in time for the early morning charters to hot and sunny destinations,” she said.

With their base of operations in Steinbach, Southeast Shuttle is a locally-owned and operated transportation service for residents of southeastern Manitoba.

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December 2023

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Ritchot 2022 Audit Finally in Front of Council, Auditor Defines Municipality as Good Fiscal Managers

By Dan Guetre While the Municipal Act clearly states municipal governments require their annual audit completed by June 30 of the following year, the RM of Ritchot council just recently received and reviewed their 2022 audited statements at their early November meeting.

According to Ian Hyslop with The Exchange Group, the firm contracted to perform the audit, while the audit is late due to various circumstances, such as the personnel change of the Chief Financial Officer, the audit is described as “very clean”, “very healthy” and displays good fiscal management.

A change from the “cash basis” to the Public Sector Accounting Board (PSAB) accrual format by the Province in 2008-09 is also affecting the time it takes to gather all the info and pass it off to the auditor, according to Ritchot CAO Mitch Duval. This was echoed by Hyslop who added Ritchot was only one

of many municipalities having delays in respect to the change.

Duval explained that in PSAB accounting, it is more complicated as the Municipality needs to consolidate any and all “partnerships” financials into the municipal audit.

“Often times, we are waiting for these partnerships data to come in, as they may have a different year end than Municipality’s of December 31,” he noted.

Asked if there is a solution on the horizon to make the process comply with the current municipal act requirements, Duval is unsure.

“I don’t know if there is,” said Duval.

“Everyone in the process just need to be quicker... but that’s hard if your year end is March 31 and you need to get those numbers audited to provide to the RM on a timely basis.”

Hyslop with The Exchange Group cautiously added that an audit this late into the following year of operations could

have had negative effect on the municipality.

And Duval pointed out that the report is just not valuable to the Municipality, but “a more timely report would be appreciated as other entities also review our reports.”

“Timely and accurate financial information is the one key component to making good fiscal decisions in terms of governance of [the] municipality and safeguarding the assets of the ratepayers,” he told council. “Any really big things that had come out of the audit that we could have talked about in a sufficient amount of time, and perhaps made some changes as required, is long past.”

At the end of the day, Hyslop assured council that the audit revealed that everything was “tickety-boo.”

Duval confirmed that though delays were seen, no adjustments were needed to the balance of 2023 in municipal operations.

The RM of Ritchot Council listens to a presentation from The Exchange Group in regards to their delayed 2022 Financial Report.

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Tache Residents Have Opportunity to Input Thoughts About Local Housing

By Dan Guetre

Read the Dispatch Online at www.dawsontrail.ca

The Tache Community Development Corporation (CDC) is hoping residents will give their input and share their ideas by taking a few minutes to participate in a new RM of Taché Housing Needs Assessment Survey.

The goal of the survey is to identify current and future housing needs, iden-

tify resident support for alternative transportation and provide direction for what types of housing are needed.

“We are conducting the survey so that we can collect localized data to help support and inform a Housing Needs Assessment,” said Lesley Gaudry, Economic Development Officer for the CDC. You can share your housing needs and

ideas through the English Survey Monkey link at surveymonkey.com/r/tachehousing or the French Survey Monkey link at surveymonkey.com/r/Tache.

Additionally, those who complete the survey will be entered in a draw to win one of 2 gift cards.

The survey closes on January 14, 2024.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

CDC Taché Launches Pilot Biz Beautification Incentive Program Eight businesses in the RM of Taché have been approved for the Pilot BIZ Beautification Incentive Program totalling $21,000 in support.

The CDC Taché’s BIZ Beautification Incentive Program was established to help support the enhancement of Main Street front businesses with exterior upgrades that may include landscaping features, accessibility, painting, windows, signage, or lighting.

The pilot program was launched in June of 2023 with applications due on October 30.

CDC Taché recognizes the value and dedication put forth by the Taché business community and is proud to support the enhancement of business fronts along the Main Streets of Landmark, Lorette, and Ste. Genevieve.

The successful businesses included Lorette Esso for surfacescaping; Lorette Thrifty Treasures for painting and lighting features; Chicken Chef for signage; C and S County Gardens for an enhanced entrance feature; Ste G’s General Store for signage; Great 4 Storage for signage; Landmark Physiotherapy for landscap-

ing and benches; and Freedom Foods Landmark for surfacescaping.

Businesses will have up to one year to complete their projects and will provide before and after photos of their improvements.

Further information inquiries can be directed to Lesley Gaudry, Economic Development Officer for the RM of Taché at lesley@rmtache.ca or 204-2182568. Be sure to visit and/or add your business to the RM of Taché Business Directory at rmtache.ca/p/add-business.

The RM of Piney Climate Action Plan The link is still open to fill out the RM of Piney Climate Action Plan survey.

This survey gathers thoughts and ideas on climate change and how it impacts the region.

The survey will be available at the RM of Piney Municipal Office and is available on-line. Everyone who completes the survey will be entered in draw to win one of 5 gift cards.

The survey can be found on-line at surveymonkey.com/r/Pineyclimate or simply scan the QR code (on the right) on your phone for a direct link to the survey.

If you would like to get involved in this project or want more information, please reach out to Allison Driedger by phone at 204-392-3849 or email bluestemdevelopment@gmail.com.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Pineyclimate

Vita EV Charging Station Ready to Use

By Angelique Forest The RM of Stuartburn has installed an electric vehicle charging station on the east side of the municipal office along Main Street North.

To bring this technology to the community the municipality worked with Eco-West through the Electric Vehicle Charger Program, under the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program to bring the service to

the area.

Up to 50% of the $21,116.88 cost was covered by the program.

According to Lucie Maynard, the Chief Administrative Officer with the RM of Stuartburn, there are currently no additional costs or fees involved to use the station.

“At this time no, however council will look at other municipalities and any user fees they may charge,” said Maynard.

“Most have done a 1 year trial offering the usage for free.”

This station was installed as part of the Municipality’s Climate Change Local Action Plan for Green House Gas Emissions to improve air quality in the RM of Stuartburn.

Included in the plan is to investigate the potential for electric vehicles for the municipal fleet and other transportation, added Maynard.

The RM of Stuartburn has installed an electric vehicle charging station on the east side of the municipal office along Main Street North.

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December 2023

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Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

December 2023

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Help Save Kismet Creek Farm

Shannon Gwynne, who has volunteered at Kismet Creek Farm since August 2019 has created a campaign to raise some desperately, needed funds to keep the farm open. “It’s come to that point and it breaks our hearts to have to do this, Submitted photos but we need your help to save Kismet Creek Farm,” she wrote on a new GoFundMe campaign she has set up.

Volunteers at farm rescue and sanctuary site and popular family tourism destination are reaching out to the public with a plea for help.

Shannon Gwynne, who has volunteered at Kismet Creek Farm since August 2019 has created a campaign to raise some desperately, needed funds to keep the farm open.

“It’s come to that point and it breaks our hearts to have to do this, but we need your help to save Kismet Creek Farm,” she wrote on a new GoFundMe campaign she has set up.

The idea to create the fund is supported by her fellow volunteers and farm owner Karl Schoenrock.

“The reality is, is that we never fully recovered after the pandemic,” explained Gwynne. “The endless winters and rising cost of living for everyone has meant that visitor counts have dropped, bookings have slowed, and funds have dried up. Without help, Kismet Creek Farm will have to close by the end of this year.”

The cost to keep Kismet Creek Farm alive is approximately $6,000/ month, she noted. This includes the mortgage on the barn, insurance, leased farm equipment, heating the barn, feed, hay, vet care, supplies for events and more.

“We have been trying to get by with promoting tours, bookings and advertising - but the weight is getting heavier every day,” she added.

She is confident that funds raised will help keep them going, especially through the winter, so that they are able to offer more bookings, reach more businesses and continue to spread the word about the good they do.

Kismet Creek Farm is home to 27 goats, 9 sheep, 1 goose, 1 llama, 1 alpaca, a donkey family of 4, 2 horses, 9 cows, 6 pigs, 3 turkeys, 1 duck, 6 chickens, 2 guinea pigs

and many cats. These farm animals were rescued from various places, some in severe circumstances, some were homeless and some were re-homed.

The sanctuary was also home to Dozer, a 6’5” tall bovine that made news internationally for his record setting size. Sadly, Dozer past away in summer of 2020.

“No matter what their story may be, our animals all have one thing in common: they came to us for a loving home,” she stressed. “Our animals have bonded over past traumas, personalities, and living together. The reality is if we close,

they may not stay together. Some may get lucky if other sanctuaries will step in, others may go to auction and not get a happy ending.”

The goal of the GoFundMe campaign is to raise $40,000 which will enable them to operate throughout the winter and develop a long-term solution. While the campaign has only been listed for a short time, it has already raised almost $15,000.

To make a donation, please visit gofundme.com search Kismet Creek Farm.

For more information about them farm and programs, visit their website at kismetcreekfarm.ca.

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Sunrise Corner is Southeast

By Monique Chenier From the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve to Sandilands Provincial Forest, Sunrise Corner in southeast Manitoba is truly an outdoor paradise. With 3,600 square kilometres of quaint communities and pristine natural areas, the region offers an endless list of recreational pursuits for both those who love the peaceful solitude of a crisp winter day and those who prefer power sports to enjoy the forests and fields. For those who are counting the days to spring, there are plenty of indoor recreational options.

The Great Outdoors Don’t Get Much Greater The Vita & Area Winter Festival is One of Sunrise Corner’s key events to warm up the winter months. This family-focused, two-day event is being held January 20 and 21, 2024 in Vita. The festival features sled dog races, curling bonspiel, horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice sports and much more.

Snowmobiling Sunrise Corner offers the snowmobile enthusiast hundreds of kilometres of designated groomed trails where adventurers can ride all day enjoying the spectacular snowscapes. Sledders can ride from town to town, taking a break at a friendly local restaurant, or tour from one warm-up shelter to the next.

Birding, Hiking and Snowshoeing If birding is on the agenda this winter while hiking or snowshoeing, explore Manitoba’s Pine to Prairie International Birding Trail. Try these two excellent and very different options. Nestled in one of the last remaining remnants of tall grass prairie, the Prairie Shore and Agassiz Interpretive Trails are maintained with clear signage. The Spur Woods Wildlife Management Area surrounds visitors in old-growth red pines and a rolling landscape with an unmaintained trail that follows the old railway spur line.

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December 2023

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Manitoba’s Winter Wonderland

Winter Recreation in the Great Indoors For the sporty types, both Piney and Vita open up their curling rinks to league play as well as bonspiels. With a full range of skating, hockey, ringette and other on-ice programming, the Vita Arena is the place to be. If folks are looking for crisp winter air as they skate along with a place to warm up, visit Woodridge’s outdoor rink which has a new warm up shack under construction.

Other recreational activities that continue throughout the winter in many communities across Sunrise Corner include floor curling, pickle ball, archery, cribbage, bingo, poker, karaoke, live music performances, Did you know there are thirty-eight kilometres of classic cross country ski trails in the Sandilands Provincial as well as farmer’s markets and craft sales.

If people are interested in a unique, interactive experience that comForest at the northern end of Sunrise Corner? The high sand ridges and majestic forests are an ideal location bines hands-on crafting, appreciation for nature and sustainable farmfor skiing enthusiasts, with designated trails groomed by volunteers for cross country skiing only. ing, delicious farm-to-table food, and creating life-long memories then Farm, Fibre, Food & Friends at Green Pastures Farm is a must-do experience. Limited dates are available in fall and early winter for this Legendary Experience in Sunrise Corner.

Cross Country Skiing

Tips for Exploring Safely Sunrise Corner is an extremely vast wilderness area of the province with poor cellular service in some areas. Many trails are unmarked, unmapped and remote. Safety is paramount.

Consult the RMs of Piney and Stuartburn municipal offices for maps of the area before venturing out into the backwoods - Carry a compass and a paper map.

- Always tell someone where you are going and what time you’re expected to return.

- Bring a friend or two with you.

- Dress for the weather, and for unexpected weather.

- Be sure to bring along food and water.

- Carry a radio if you are concerned about cellular service.

Explore Sunrise Corner, Where Nature Shines If there’s one thing people have come to understand, it’s that taking the time to enjoy life is time well invested. They realize there’s value in hiking through red pine forests and snowshoeing across tall grass prairies, fishing on a frozen river, or rediscovering the past at historic cultural sites. We invite you to play, visit and explore Sunrise Corner in southeast Manitoba, where nature shines.

Visit sunrisecornbermb.ca/visit for details.

All photos submitted by Sunrise Corner

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Illegal Ditching in Stuartburn Addressed at Council, Escalated to Province

By Dan Guetre The RM of Stuartburn Council is investigating what they deem as some illegal ditching being created in their municipality on private land that could create some drainage issues.

According to Stuartburn Reeve Michelle Gawronsky, councils need to address any drainage work that are performed without permits from the Province as these projects can have a negative impact, not just on neighbouring properties, but throughout the region.

“Flooding, sending the water to another area faster, causing neighbouring property owners and the municipal road to flood out,” are just some of the potential consequences explained Gawronsky.

“Without the proper permitting in place, there is no step to ensure proper planning and surveying was to know whether the ditch-

ing will positively or negatively affect the landowner and the landowners downstream,” she explained. “In this case, a provincial drain may have been compromised therefore structural integrity of the infrastructure needs to be inspected.”

The circumvention of the process to get proper approvals for this particular drainage work that council was made aware of is concerning to them.

“This area was a Disaster Financial Assistance site in the June 2020 event, where the road was damaged by flood waters going over the road at the Gardenton Drain,” she explained. “There are multiple residents living along that road that require access, as well as multiple residences directly downstream that could be greatly impacted by sending more water quicker to them.”

Council has decided to reach out to the Province to have them address this issue.

“Since drainage licenses fall un-

der the jurisdiction of the province even for ditching on private property, we felt the province should be made aware to inspect the situation as well as their infrastructure,” said Gawronsky.

In addition to the issues council has identified, the Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District also has the same concerns.

“It is likely that this will have a detrimental impact upon existing and new projects developed by Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District in the RM of Stuartburn and will further cause environmental issues for our watersheds that this water flows into,” they noted in a letter to council.

They added that the Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District Board supports the RM of Stuartburn with their further investigation into the illegal ditching that has taken place in the municipality on private property that will be detrimental to proposed projects in the watershed.

Santa Day in Vita is Coming

Santa will be touring Vita on December 17 from 4 pm to 7 pm with some music and lights by Universals Music, accompanied by the RM of Stuartburn Fire Department.

There will be hotdogs and chips for everyone and treat bags will be available for the kids.

A bonfire will keep everyone

toasty warm and hopefully if the weather cooperates, there will be a snow hill to enjoy.

There will also be curling, skating and board games at the Vita Rec Centre providing the ice is ready.

According to organizers, everything is free of charge! They are still working out some of the details but the day is coming together.

Grace Mennonite Scores Juno Winner for Christmas Concert Tache Senior Services to Step Up for Aging Residents

The Grace Mennonite Church has booked award winning musician Steve Bell to perform at a mid-December concert to ring in the Holiday Season.

Bell nominated four times throughout his career for a Juno, took home the award in both

1998 and 2001 for Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year.

Bell will perform on Thursday, December 16 at the church located at 430 Third Street in Steinbach.

The show starts at 7:30 pm and will feature “stories and songs from

Advent, Christmas and Epiphany as well as Steve Bell classics and favourites.”

Tickets available at stevebell. com/event/steinbach-mb-solo-concert-2 or through Grace Mennonite 204-326-3707 or Signpost Music toll-free at 1-800-854-3499.

Tache Senior Services is excited to announce their Santa for Seniors program. This year they will be providing a meal and small gifts to the seniors in Tache who are alone at Christmas.

In addition, they will be supplying a delicious Heart to Home Christmas turkey dinner to their seniors.

The group is also gratefully accepting new donations of small gifts, or if you wish to make a monetary donation, E-transfers can be sent to the RM of Tache earmarked for the program.

Santa for Seniors collection boxes will be set up at the municipal office and the Lorette Coop.

Please consider helping them bring joy to municipal senior community members this season.

The Grace Mennonite Church has booked award winning musician Steve Bell to perform at a holiday concert.

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

December 2023

ROC Eastman Excited as Massive 50/50 Draw Jackpot Climbs

By Angelique Forest Recreation Opportunities for Children (ROC) Eastman is again hosting its 50/50 raffle to raise funds for its programs.

Steph McLean, Development Coordinator & Family Recreation Practitioner for ROC Eastman is more than excited for this year’s raffle.

“The ROC Eastman 50/50 is in its 5th season!” said McLean. The raffle, hosted by the charity, has taken place every year when it was started in fall of 2019, and they’ve been continuing annually ever since. “This fundraiser is one of our biggest every year.”

The funds raised go towards reducing barriers to recreation participation for children living in all areas of Eastman, Manitoba.

“All of our fundraisers directly support

our charity,” said McLean.

Mclean explained that barriers they see frequently aren’t always financial - many families look for support and guidance in filling the registration forms, finding appropriate equipment or instruments, coordinating multiple children into activities, and navigating accessibility barriers to participation.

“Our goal is to help reduce or eliminate these barriers (among many others) so children can find an activity they love,” she noted.

There is a maximum of 20,000 tickets ($5 each) for the 50/50 Draw and the winner can take home a massive $50,000 if all the tickets are sold.

“We have sold out for the last 3 years (2020, 2021, 2022) and the grand prize winners of all of those draws took home

$50,000,” she said. “Our hope is to sell out again this year [and] with 2 weeks left, we are already over $60,000 and the number continues to climb!”

The grand prize draw is on December 18.

Looking ahead to 2024, ROC Eastman will also continue their used book fairs, are planning their second annual ROC Eastman charity golf tournament, and will continue to grow their community involvement all over the region through equipment delivery and donation days in spring and fall.

All of the events (fundraisers and community events) will be available on their events calendar on their website (roceastman.ca), and on their Facebook and Instagram Social Media pages.

Sarto’s “A Very Merry Christmas Market” Hosted for Two Days The Stand Market & Events at Sarto Hall invites you to a Very Merry Christmas Market to be hosted over 2 days.

Enjoy the Very Merry Christmas Market with your $5 admission going to Sarto Hall’s fundraising efforts to improve their venue. On their Christmas list is a new boiler, estimated to cost $5,000.

On Friday, come dolled up, get your hair and make up done at the market and on Friday evening... picture this… dimmed lighting, live music, dining room, bar plus amazing local shops and an outside bonfire.

Pick up your family and office fresh cut Christmas trees and wreaths while you’re there from the gracious Van der Meers Greenhouse who is donating 25% of all sales at this event to Sarto Hall!

Get your gift giving complete and stockings filled with great local artists and creators products… pottery, permanent jewelry, Christmas decor, bath and body, clothing, baking, jewelry, fresh fudge, pet supplies, paintings, special occasion cards, tea, candles, fresh locally made Brazilian cheese, handmade rugs and much more!

Are you a member of the “Completed Christmas Shopping Club”?

Organizers want you to know you will still enjoy coming out to this fabulous event!

This is a great opportunity to get those last minute gifts and custom orders with so many incredible local vendors and connect with new and favorite people.

This 2-day event is being held on Friday, December 8 from 5 pm - 9 pm and Saturday, December 9, from 10 am - 3 pm at the Sarto Hall in Sarto.

This 2-day event is being held on Friday, December 8 from 5 pm - 9 pm and Saturday, December 9, from 10 am - 3 pm at the Sarto Hall in Sarto.

Read the Dispatch Online at www.dawsontrail.ca

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December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

The 12 Months of Giving – the State of Corporate Welfare

By Monica Guetre “Corporate Welfare” is used to describe a government’s donation of money with grants, subsidies, tax breaks or loopholes, and other special favourable treatment for small and big corporations.

There is also the term “privatizing profits and socializing losses” which refers to the idea that a business keeps its financial gains to benefit only themselves or shareholders and passes along their losses to the rest of us by lobbying for favourable welfare treatment.

To be clear, I don’t think we should lump in a non-profit business into any of the categories since the majority are self-mandated to fill a need that directly benefits the community and turn any “profit” back into their community programming – albeit some have strings attached in their offered community benefits.

A great example of Corporate Welfare was back in 2008 when the markets and banks were collapsing on a huge scale with the Wall Street bailout… “because they were too big to fail.” But we found out that much of government’s (taxpayer) money went directly into the pockets of CEOs, board members and propped up the shareholder’s stock price.

The lesson learned is whether we think this type of welfare is right or wrong, oversight is always needed. We have to be vigilante in protecting our rights, our natural environment, water, air and land. There are too many

examples throughout our history where a business that received our largess left behind empty shells or environmental disasters in their wake and people without any jobs.

Also we should consider buffering ourselves so that we don’t rely on stock market as a measurement tool for success.

Let’s ask ourselves “why keep doing this?” You’d think that at some point repeating the same cycle is futile and it’s impossible to continue cleaning up these messes while still needing to fund basics like healthcare, education and infrastructure.

One suggestion is for business to self-fund this repetitive cycle through an annual non-refundable levy that we (government) hold in trust until it’s time to clean up after a business shutters after it becomes defunct (think typewriter factory) or high tails it out, leaving us an environment disaster bill because of competition (think better welfare state somewhere else).

Then why do we do it? It’s disingenuous to say we and our federal, provincial or municipal governments and economic development corporations lack experience. We have enormous expertise and the know-how.

It may be fairer to say we need to mobilize new sources of money, because we, as taxpayers, don’t have deep enough pockets when billions are needed to kick-start part of our economy or buy into new technology/equipment and we don’t have enough people yet to do everything, especially when we’re building a national railroad or transitioning a whole economy and every person to renewable energy.

It’s also fair to say our big Canadian political parties support “Corporate Welfare”. They may change the program title and go about marketing it differently while tooting their own horn but in reality it’s still us propping up businesses directly and indirectly.

Recently there’s been a lot of talk about the concessions (welfare benefits) which a Swedish battery giant is getting to set up shop in Quebec. The federal government is giving $2.7 billion in taxpayer money, and also $4.6 billion production incentives, of which the taxpayers of Quebec need to cough

up $1.53 billion. Some may ask is it worth the price of getting 3,000 jobs and waiting 2 decades to see the net benefit?

On one side the answer is, yes, the high cost of paying for everything to build this new economy with new technology within our borders and over the long term seeing spin-offs are worth it. Arguably it’s just like when we subsidize agriculture research to develop indoor crop technology or focus on regenerative agriculture. But, there is never a guarantee that such a large employer sticks around or that other technology won’t make it all obsolete.

Whether you think it’s right or not, the idea is that this type of corporate welfare funding opens up the potential of what our future could be - it’s focused on high wage benefits (increases individual taxes collected), future technology, and reducing the cost and frequency in fighting natural disasters, even our survival, to be sustainable. In this scenario corporate welfare essentially becomes a collective taxpayer funded lever that hopefully benefits us and our future instead of hampering the costly legacy we leave.

This is quite different from government corporate welfare which continues to offer big subsidies when no new technology or research is being offered for job creation, like continuing to subsidize a typewriter industry or oil and gas exploration.

And many taxpayers also question why one province gets the opportunity, while another doesn’t.

But what stands out is what’s not included in all these government incentives to set up shop in Canada.

These other subsidies are also paid with our tax dollars. This list should be itemized in big bold letters when our government goes scouting for new monies, “What You Also Get for Your Money” because we are subsidizing corporations indirectly by paying for: healthcare – hospitals, life saving equipment, health professional, roads, bridges and all of the infrastructure, emergency fire services, building and maintaining an energy grid, subsidizing child care and early learning, running our public schools (and yes even some private school funding

is available), paying our educators, keeping our post-secondary programs affordable, etc. All of this is worth billions.

And we do this even when one of those welfare corporations don’t pay a penny in taxes even when they get a subsidy, grant, tax break or a government interest free loan.

In Canada, the number of direct tax credits, grants, subsidy programs, interest free loans are astounding. Remember all of these programs are either non-repayable or interest free.

So, along with all the indirect subsidies we give, there are many direct gifts made to corporations.

There’s the Student Work Placement Program that subsidizes wages and an additional subsidy engineered to promote workforce diversity with under-represented people including first-year students, women in STEM, Indigenous students, persons with disabilities, and newcomers.

How about the apprenticeship tax credits designed to help cover an employer’s training costs with a grant, or funding to create full-time summer jobs, youth wage subsidies in the environmental sector, or support to hire interns starting their careers in clean technology sectors. There are also wage subsidies for internships in the mining, forestry and energy industries, and a separate not-for-profit subsidy covering 100% of wages to hire summer students. Or how about just our provincial subsidy – the Manitoba’s Film & Video Tax Credit offering up to 38% on eligible labour expenses and there’s additional bonuses to be gained for production in rural-and-northern locations. The corporate welfare advantages we offer seem to go on and on.

When a politician bemoans people on “welfare”, the un-housed, the people collecting EI, people who are injured and no longer can work, the need for food banks, our universal health care system, helping our seniors and youth, or justifying the need to build a school, ask them about how our money is being spent to support our corporate welfare.

From my family to yours wishing you all the best this holiday season and may the new year be kind.

Edge Business Expo Coming to Ritchot What is described as “an incredible business event for our fabulous business community”, Edge Business Expo is coming to Ritchot in February 2024.

According to organizers, the Expo is designed to offer valuable insights, networking op-

portunities, and practical workshops for both established entrepreneurs and those just starting their journey.

The Expo is supported by both the RM of Ritchot and the Ritchot CDC, and while the specific dates have not been announced as of yet, the event will feature workshops, keynote

speakers, a tradeshow, and opportunities to network.

While the planning is underway, there is an opportunity to participate in a quick survey where eligible participants are entered into a draw for 2 free full access tickets valued at $300.

The intention of the survey is to

assist organizers in custom creating the workshops and speakers to the benefit of participants.

To fill out the survey, go to surveymonkey.com/r/N9V6QWW. For additional information and to stay in the loop, please visit their website at edgebusinessexpo.com.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Municipality Eyes Joining Bilingual Alliance

December 2023

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By Dan Guetre With its high percentage of Francophone and bilingual residents, the RM of Ste. Anne has decided to start the process to join the Association of Manitoba Bilingual Municipalities (AMBM), an alliance created to promote bilingualism with and assistance their members to “build stronger communities.”

Current southeast municipal membership includes the RMs of Tache, De Salaberry, La Broquerie and Ritchot plus the Village of St. PierreJolys and the Town of Ste. Anne. A half a dozen other municipalities throughout the Province round out their membership.

Reeve Richard Pelletier explained that the municipal membership has many advantages for the residents.

“As the RM of Ste. Anne is located on Treaty 1 lands, and was first settled by English, French, and Métis people, it’s important to recognize our roots and celebrate our diversity,” said Pelletier. “By becoming an officially bilingual municipality, and joining the AMBM, we would be in a better position to recognize our history, celebrate our bilingualism, and support these cultures by offering better services in both official languages.”

Key benefits were discussed at the council meeting during and following a presentation led by Justin Johnson with the AMBM. “Joining the AMBM will give us access to the tools we need to be able to provide better quality services in both official languages such as their translation services,” said Pelletier. “Joining the AMBM will also give us access to the network of other bilingual municipalities, as well as to their Economic Development counsel (CDEM), and Eco-West.”

Pelletier stressed that joining the organization would improve the way the municipality can communicate with its residents and opens up economic networking opportunities.

“Becoming a bilingual municipality, and becoming a member of the AMBM will allow us to better support our residents, of English, French, and all other cultures, from the collaboration with these organizations, their members, and the networks that we will then be able to access,” he explained.

Some council members expressed concerns that joining the AMBM could translate into a cost for residents or affect those employed by the municipality. During the presentation, Johnson assured council this was not the case.

Pelletier concurred with this assessment and noted that the process to implement bilingual services under the AMBM is in stages mostly controlled by the municipality. “…we will work with the AMBM to inventory the services that we already offer in English and French, and those that we need to work on being able to provide,” he said. “A plan will be created for the gradual implementation of bilingual practices and services in all departments.”

On the surface, current operations would not be hampered.

“This should not have any impact on our staff or operation in the near or distant future. Those that are not bilingual (English/French) can be trained on using translation tools and services if necessary to meet the standards set by Council,” he noted. “There are many accommodations that can be made to provide services requested, and we fully intend to explore those options with the assistance of the AMBM.” The first step in the process is now underway as council has asked their administration to prepare a bylaw for first reading, which would then allow for public consultations. First reading can be held as early as their next meeting scheduled for December 13. Concurrently, a formal request will be submitted to the AMBM. “Then our request will need to be accepted by the Association,” said Pelletier. “Once this has been done, then the by-law will need to be passed, along with an inventory of the services already offered, and the level of services that we want to work towards offering.”

Pelletier hopes that by joining the AMBM, council “can show our francophone community that we respect and support their unique needs, and will endeavour to provide them with services in both official languages.”

Within the AMBM, CDEM and EcoWest these organizations assist their members with projects that could require the additional support.

“We anticipate that this will have greater impacts helping to enrich our communities and help open doors to more economic development opportunities in the long run, helping us create a more sustainable municipality for all who call the RM of Ste. Anne home,” said Pelletier.

Ritchot Senior Services Events Ritchot Senior Services will be closed December 21 through January 7.

Group Events: Coffee with Friends – On Thursdays, December 7 and 14 from 10 - 11:30 am. Do you have a cool item or photo that you would like to share? Bring it along with you. Open to everyone. $2 for bottomless coffee and muffin. Ritchot Senior Services, 457 Main Street, St. Adolphe.

Bingo – Tuesday, December 12, 1:30-3 pm at Ritchot Senior Services, 457 Main Street, St. Adolphe.

Play for fun prizes. $2 admission includes 2 cards, additional cards available for .50₵ each. You must pre register for this event.

Old Time Dance & Christmas Dinner – Sunday, December 17, 1 – 5 pm at the Pioneer Hall, 345 St. Adolphe Rd. Entertainment provided by Mark Morisseau. Door prizes, 50/50 draw and cash bar. Cost $25. Please reserve your ticket in advance by calling Jules 204-883-2440.

Howden Hobbies Quilting & Knitting – Wednesdays, January 17 and 31 2024, 9:30 am – 1 pm at the Howden Community Centre, 1078 Red River Dr. This year we will be working on two very important projects. We will continue to create lap quilts for the Alzheimer society. And new this year we will be creating knit lap blankets that will be donated to Palliative Care MB. All supplies will be supplied thanks to generous community donations. Coffee and tea will be available. Bring along your lunch, spend time with community members that have the same passion as yourself and make a difference.

Foot Care Clinics - By appointment only. For more information, please contact Janice at 204-8832880.

Upcoming clinic dates: Ste Agathe – Wednesday, December 20 and Thursday, December 21.

St. Adolphe – Wednesday, January 17, Thursday, January 18 and Friday, January 19 2024.

Ile des Chenes – Tuesday, December 12 and Wednesday, December 13.

Woodturners Association of Manitoba – Every second Thursday, 6:30 pm at the Howden Community Centre, 1078 Red River Dr. until June. Begins with a fundamentals topic followed by meeting at 7 pm and demonstration. A bunch of woodturning enthusiasts who meet to share ideas, challenge each other, swap wood and tools, and generally behave like kids in a candy store. Nothing excites them more than finding a new technique, tool, or chunk of exotic lumber. Contact Gerald wamturn@gmail.com.

Heart to Home Meals -To place your order please call 1-204-816-8659 or 1-888-216-1067.

Call for a menu or pick one up at Ritchot Senior Services. Call or email Ritchot Senior Services after placing your orders to let us know you have placed an order. This will assist us in organizing volunteers for delivery of meals to you. Meals ready for pick up or delivery the following day. This service is available to all areas of the Ritchot Community including St. Adolphe, Ste Agathe, Ile des Chenes, Grande Pointe, Howden and Glenlea. There are no contracts, no minimum orders.

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December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

In the Moment - Hope, personal stories of meeting God in each moment of inspiration

Chosen

Her tiny, piercing, jet black eyes peered curiously through her soft black curly hair as she perched contently on the back of the sofa.

“Who is this strange lady coming into my home?”

This 10-week old puppy may have wondered as her head tilted slightly in curiosity.

Mommy and the other pups lay nearby, doing what moms and her pups do.

“This lady is getting curiously closer, and she is smiling...she smells so nice… like vanilla. She’s moving a little closer now in each moment. My furry, fun tail

By Arlene Derksen is telling her I’m glad she is here. Mom and the pups are now hanging out with me, but this lady seems to only have eyes for me with her very kind eyes. She smiles at the other pups and mom, but keeps turning her attention to me only.”

“Her eyes tell me a story. She loves…she loves so much! I want some! Lady gathers all of me oh so gently in her arms. She holds me close…oh so close! My little very pink tongue is kissing lady now unashamedly all over her face! I can’t help it!”

She had stolen our hearts…our little furry friend was chosen. We all want to be Chosen.

Sadly, not all are chosen on this planet. But there is great news! We are all Chosen! Hand picked! Chased after! His smile is wide! He is fascinated with you…and loves you soon much.

He is on a mission…He knows All about you. He knew you before you were born.

The Word tells us He will leave the 99 to come search for us…

Choose us! And when He has found us, He will joyfully carry you/us home on His shoulders…what a picture!

He chose to die for us…each one of us…

He chooses me…He chooses you! His sweet aroma of Grace permeates His pursuit of us. His loving arms are forever outstretched to His Chosen. His eyes are always on me, always on you.

He is such a personal God It brings Him great pleasure to “bring us home”.

Such a beautiful word…Chosen.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Sprague RCMP Offer Sage Advice When Hitting the Winter Roads

“Even though we may feel superhuman with fresh winter tires on our rims, it is still important to be extra cautious over the winter months,” said Cpl. Kevin Bruce of the Sprague RCMP. File Photo

By Dan Guetre As winter starts rolling in with the lower temperatures and the inevitable snow, so does the increased risk on the roadways, especially when travelling long distances to visit family and friends during the holidays.

“Even though we may feel superhuman with fresh winter tires on our rims, it is still important to be extra cautious over the winter months,” said Cpl. Kevin Bruce of the Sprague RCMP. Bruce has some simple reminders which could keep you and your family safe.

“Check the weather and road conditions before you depart, and plan accordingly. The road

conditions can change drastically in a short period of time,” he noted.

“Visibility is a factor that you also have to consider. I don’t know about you, but the times I’ve been caught in a snow storm, it’s like piloting the Millennium Falcon through space.

All you see are white flakes coming at you fast and furious like the stars.”

While picturing yourself flying through space on a sci-fi adventure, there is the down-to-earth reality.

“Seriously though, if you decide to risk it out in adverse conditions, you aren’t only taking the risk for yourself, but you are also forcing the hand of emergency services, tow truck operators, and that good Samaritan who stops to help” he explained. “You would also be put-

ting family members at risk who will without a doubt be coming out to help you. There is no shame in missing a hockey practice, or rescheduling a date with your pets’ groomer.”

When the weather gets colder and you naturally reach for the heater control, Bruce advises that you could also create an additional seasonal habit.

“In the event you do end up stuck in a snow bank or ditch over the winter season, ensure you have some extra winter items in case you need them,” he explained, “such as a first aid kit, clothing, blankets, flashlight, snacks, hand warmers, and an extra pair of boots in case your feet get wet while trying to shovel your way out. Above all else, don’t panic!”

Country Tales: Night Bandits

By Darlene Kuchar

When I got back with the restored He left when I asked if he knew A small paw emerged and two lighting he was scared and sur- any drywallers. For some reason he never offered to help again. black beady eyes stared out of rounded by six baby raccoons. the bathroom vent. There appeared to be critters in the attic.

In the cloak of darkness I dragged the aluminium ladder to the outside hatch. My neighbour saw me, the damsel in distress, on a mission in the rain and offered to place the live trap inside. While he made his way across the rafters it was my duty, my only job was to hold the trouble light.

Everything was going to plan until the cord running from the bedroom window magically became shorter and unplugged leaving Noel lost in the dark.

In no time at all he slipped off the truss and through the ceiling... but good news, only part way.

No bats in the belfry, but raccoons in the attic!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

December’s Upheaval

Hello and welcome to December, a month and time to look back on the summer that was and to prepare for the Christmas season before us.

Of course, with the lack of snowfall on the ground and the wonderful temperatures abounding, it is hard to believe that this is the month of Christmas. A white Christmas? We shall see...

It has been a lot of years since we’ve had so little snow this early in December and it does seem to be throwing the “normal” into a bit of tizzy. A few of the people that I’ve

talked with agree that the lack of snow is making it easy to forget to go Christmas gift shopping and to begin their holiday baking.

With the arrival of December, a time to come inside and do more indoor tasks, I do find that my eyes wander around my office and I see the things that have snuck into my shelves and have stealthily gathered upon my desk. Having been very busy spending time out-of-doors this summer and fall, I did not fully come to realize that papers and boxes, toys and books, tools and other assorted items had come to call my office, my sanctuary, their own.

This can no longer be!

Since I am busy writing this column, I can not stop for long but to glance at the nearest page beside me and asked myself, “Do I still need this scrap of paper where I had sketched a waterline layout?” The answer, dear reader, is a resounding no! What else can be cleared from the once smooth surface of my desk? What about this note of

a movie recommendation from a friend? Did I watch the movie? Yes I did. The note too can now follow the previous scrap of paper into the recycle bin. My eyes wander about and I see more pages and scraps of paper that now begin to call for my attention, to beg for me to glean the knowledge written upon them and to have them fulfill their purpose.

My desk, silent and sturdy, seems to welcome the time when it can stand clear and uncluttered. My shelves, books filled from side to side, asks of me if I might remove those that have been read and now gather dust, to bring in new books, new friends, that I might share an adventure or two with. Ah yes, stories not yet experienced.

Until we meet again, dear readers, I shall endeavour to remove the clutter from my desk and to have a neater, more organized office. I humbly bid you to do the same within your home.

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

Town Halls Coming to Ritchot in 2024 Town Halls will be making a comeback in Ritchot in the new year.

“Town Halls are a great way for our council to connect with residents on topics that matter most to them,” said Ritchot Mayor Chris Ewen.

While topics are still being confirmed, the first town halls will take place in February 2024 in St. Adolphe, Ste. Agathe, Ile Des Chenes, Grande Pointe and Howden.

With more specific details to be

announced in January, the municipality is hoping residents and businesses will reach out to them with some suggestions of the topics that they are interested in by emailing to communications@ritchot.com.

Bridge Over Frozen Water

December 2023

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Species at Risk Spotlight:

Common Nighthawk

By Norm Gregoire When I talk to community members about the unique species we live amongst in the tall-grass prairie natural area, there are usually comments on the amount of bird diversity we have. Fourteen of the twenty-eight species at risk in the tall-grass prairie are birds, and they range in many ways, including appearance, habitat preference, and how likely you are to be able to observe them on a day-to-day basis. A bird that you may have seen but were not sure what it was is the common nighthawk.

When folks see the two members of the nightjar family in our area, the eastern whip-poor-will and the common nighthawk, they are surprised to learn that these two birds are two separate species.

There are a few ways to correctly identify the two nightjars.

Most nightjars are nocturnal, whereas the common nighthawk is crepuscular, meaning it is most active at dawn and dusk. If you have seen a nightjar while there is daylight, what you have thought to be the more well-known nightjar, the eastern whip-poor-will, is most likely a common nighthawk. Other features to look out for are the white bars on the wings, forked tail, and a distinct “peent” call. The eastern whip-poor-will’s call is its unmistakable namesake. The common nighthawk is a medium-sized bird that is well camouflaged due to its grey and brown mottled plumage.

Common nighthawks prefer open areas near mixed woodlands but can adapt to urban habitats. They will hunt around artificial light when it is available. As an insectivore, healthy insect populations are critical. The common nighthawk has even picked up the nickname “mosquito hawk” due to their ability to eat over five hundred mosquitoes and various other insects in a single night.

I cannot say that I love the name common nighthawk. We have already learned that they are crepuscular, so “night” does not really fit. And how common are they? Well, the population seems fairly high throughout Canada, with two hundred seventy thousand breeding adults, according to the Boreal Avian Modelling Project. These numbers can be seen as unreliable due to the common nighthawk’s inactivity during the day, paired with their great camouflage making it hard to conduct surveys on them. What is concerning is that we do know that, like most aerial insectivores (birds that eat insects on the wing), populations are declining, and in the case of the common nighthawk, declining quite steeply at over one percent population decline per year.

It would be a real shame for such a unique bird to disappear from the tall-grass prairie natural area. A great way for community members to help the common nighthawk is to take part in Birds Canada’s Canadian Nightjar Survey. By volunteering only a few hours of your time per year, you can provide some very useful data regarding nightjar population trends. For more information on these surveys or to learn more about the common nighthawk, please connect with me at info@sharedlegacymb.ca

The common nighthawk is a medium-sized bird that is well camouflaged due to its grey and brown mottled plumage. Other features to look out for are the white bars on the wings, forked tail, and a distinct “peent” call. Like most aerial insectivores (birds that eat insects on the wing), populations are declining, and in the case of the common nighthawk, declining quite steeply at over one percent population decline per year.

Photo credit Shirley Humphries Emile Champagne Bridge in Ste Anne taken in the middle of winter in 2022.

Photo by Ginette Perron

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December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

C ommunity E vents General Monarchs and Native Plants Webinar Free - Tuesday, December 12 at 11 am. A Free event with speaker: Emily Putz. Learn how to ID a Monarch, about their life cycle, how to ID native Milkweeds, the importance of Milkweed and other nectaring species, and how you can help support this species and other pollinator. Register at us02web.zoom. us/webinar/register/WN_85hs5GasQ569AAhmmJy6jA or contact Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan 1306-352-0472, pcap@sasktel.net.

Anola Christmas Pictures with Santa & the Alpacas! - Saturday, Dec 9, 11 am – 4 pm at 313 Farms, 35157 Mission Rd. $20 a photo shoot for you and as many people as you can fit in the picture! Take your own pictures or have photos emailed to you. Contact us on Facebook messenger, email, or call to reserve your 10 minute spot.

Dominion City Winter Forest Market – Sunday, December 10, 10 am – 2 pm at the Community Hall, 31 McKercher St. Vendors wanted, $30 fee. Contact Gypsiimagik@outlook.com.

Falcon Beach Bonspiels 2024 – Ladies Friday, February 2 – Sunday, February 4 and Mixed Friday, March 8 – Sunday, March 10 at the Curling Rink. Early Bird rates available. 50/50 and contest prizes. Contact for information and registration Janet Harbottle 204-792-3919, mothership@mymts.net.

Annual Beaver Days – Coming in February 2024. Stay tuned for more information on this event. Family skating, Bingo, snowmobile poker derby, Demo rides, Hockey skills competition, Kids floor curling, Fur trappers & Park interpreter booth, sleigh rides, Sled Show n Shine, Cross-country Ski event.

Bingo – Wednesdays at 7: 30 pm, early bird games at 7 pm at the Whiteshell Community Club 20 301 Pr, Falcon Beach.

Contact 204-349-2293.

Friedensfeld Annual FCC Christmas Party - Friday, December 15, 6 pm at the Community Centre. Contact 204-326-2760, friedensfeldcc@gmail.com.

New Year’s Eve Party – Sunday, December 31. 6;30 pm cocktails, 7 pm buffet dinner, 8 pm dance. $Cost $50/ ticket. Music by Request. Contact 204-326-2760, friedensfeldcc@gmail.com.

Gardenton New Year’s Eve Dance 50s Theme - December 31, 7 pm – 1 am at the Park Hall. Cost $20 ticket. Prizes for best dressed. Music by Universal DJ, Karaoke, pizza and hot dogs for lunch. Come jitterbug and dance the night away to a 50s dance style. Contact Kelvin 204-428-8197.

Grunthal Coffee Connections - All adults ages 55+ are welcome to join us at the New Horizon Centre for a time of visiting, while enjoying coffee, tea and refreshments. Join us and bring your friends. There is no cost. Contact Anita Funk 204371-9134.

Ile des Chenes Yoga - Gentle yet invigorating morning yoga for women and men 55+, and evening yoga for mature teens and adults at the TC Energy Centre. Contact Juliette at yogaforyoumanitoba@outlook.com.

Kleefeld Breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus – Saturday, December 9, 8:30 am – 12 pm at the Recreational Centre to support to Happy Hive Childcare. Come and have breakfast ($10), and a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus for $15.

Also there will be an indoor mini market to scoop up some Christmas gifts, a chance to win the 50/50 raffle and the Kleefeld Senior’s Resource program with a bake sale! Attendees must pre register for this event at forms. gle/p4jE2ex9rGVRL1oX9.

La Broquerie Drop-in Community Bike Repair Workshop – Tuesdays, 6 – 9 pm at La Bikequerie Inc, 36016 PR 210, and (the old Southeast Vet Clinic) Come; learn how to fix your bike. Bring a friend! We also have used bikes for sale. Contact Jacinthe Wiebe, 204-346-1515 or labikequerie@gmail.com.

Lorette Santa for Seniors gift bag Giveaway - Tache Senior Services is now accepting nominations and donations for their 2nd annual Santa for Seniors gift bag giveaway. Please contact laurie@rmtache.ca for more information.

Public Skating – Sundays at the Community Complex from 11am-Noon. Mark your calendars, sharpen up those skates and we will see you there!

Bibliothèque Taché Library - “Reading with Raptors” presented by Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation on Saturday, December 9, 12 – 1 pm. Lego Night Thursday, December 14, 5 -7:30 pm; Book Club will resume on January 18, 2024 with “Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson; Story Time & Craft (FR) Saturday, December 16, 12 pm; Crafts on Saturday, December 9 with Owl Handprint Painting; Tuesday, December 12 – Saturday, December 16 with Snowman Ornaments; Tuesday, December 19 – Saturday, December 23 with Snowflakes & Cards and Coloring Draw due Saturday, December 23.

Monthly foot clinics - Tache Senior Services hosts foot clinics in Lorette and Landmark. Contact laurie@rmtache.ca for more information.

Yoga - Gentle yet invigorating morning yoga for women and men 55+ at the Lorette Community Complex. Contact Juliette at yogaforyoumanitoba@outlook.com.

Fitness Classes for Active Older Adults- Every Tuesday at 10 am, until mid-June at the Les Club Bles D’or. Strengthening using body weight, bands and free weights. Sign up $9 to mid-June or $10 drop-in. Contact Laurie, laurie@rmtache. ca or Tobi Ann 204-801-3133.

Welcome New Home Owners - Welcome to the growing community of Lorette! Have you purchased a home, townhome, duplex, or condo in the LUD of Lorette, in the last year? Do you have questions about your new community?

The Welcome Basket Committee of the LUD of Lorette would be happy to answer some of those questions. We have a free basket of gift certificates, coupons, gifts, and information which have been generously provided by the businesses and organizations in the LUD of Lorette. To arrange a short visit please e-mail lorettewelcomebasket@gmail.com (no strings attached).

Middlebro Breakfast with Santa – Saturday, December 9, 9 – 11 am at the Community Hall. Cost $5. Pancakes, ham, waffles and fruit. Photo booth, 50/50 draw plus more. Don’t forget a donation for the food hamper.

Mitchell Toast & Coffee – On Tuesdays, drop-in for toast and coffee for $2 and a menu is available with prices according to what you order at the Mitchell and Area Community Centre, 130 Ash St. Contact Jane Penner 204-346-2469, jpenner@jantre.com.

Richer Community Club Chase the Ace held at the Richer Inn on Saturdays from 5 pm to 7:45 pm. Tickets only $1 each.

Jackpot currently over $32,000!

RM of Stuartburn Services to Seniors - Free Shuttle for residents of the RM the first Friday of each month. Call to book a ride and do your banking and shopping locally or book your doctor’s appointment and we will get you to your appointment. Call 204-425-3701.

Services to Seniors Steinbach Shuttle - Subsidized cost $15/ person. Minimum of 8 participants required for the trip to take place. Departure from Shady Oaks at 9:30 am. Call 204-425-3701 to book a seat.

Sarto A Very Merry Christmas Market Fundraiser - Friday, December 8, 5 - 9 pm and Saturday, December 9, 10 am - 3 pm at the Hall. With your $5 fundraising admission going to Sarto Hall to continue to improve their venue.

South Junction Southeast Farmer’ Market Christmas Market Day – Saturday, December 9 and 16, 10 am – 2 pm, indoor Market at Pine Grove Seniors. 50/50 draw, variety of vendor tables, lunch available at the Canteen.

Southeast Farmer’s Market Christmas Market Day – Saturday, December 16, 10 am – 2 pm, indoor Market at Pine Grove Seniors. Variety of vendor tables, lunch available at the Canteen.

Exercise for Fun and Health – Mondays and Thursdays, at 9:30 am the Pine Grove Senior Club. Come join us, we have treadmill, exercise bikes, weights and Just Walk Video. Contact Rachel, resource co-ordinator 204-437-2604.

Meet Your Neighbours Coffee Group- Mondays, at 1 pm, Pine Grove Seniors Club, Highway 12 and Prevost St. and Thursdays at 1 pm at the Evergreens Senior Club at the Hall by railroad tracks.

Sprague EBCH Christmas Lights Fundraiser – Donate $5 per light bulb or light up an entire tree for $75 donation in support of East Borderland Community Housing Timberline Assisted Living Community. Please drop off your donation at the Primary Healthcare Centre by placing in an envelope with your name and address. Tax receipts will be issue for $20 and over. Contact Danielle Charrette 204-371-1983.

Free Parent Drop-in – 3 sessions on Mondays December 11 from 10 – 11:30 am. Meet and connect with other parents, crafts and activities, join group discussions. Snacks provided. Contact Holly larsonh@blsd.ca or 204-324-6491.

Kids Club – Wednesdays from 7 – 9 pm at the Community Fellowship Church. For all children ages 5 and up.

Piney Floor Curling - Every Tuesday at 7 pm, in the Community Hall.

Pickleball - Every Wednesday at 7 pm in the Community Hall.

Archery - Every Thursday at 7 pm in the Community Hall.

Come and Visit Stay & Play - Free Drop in Program – Every Tuesday until December 12, from 9:30 – 11:30 am at the Ross L Gray School, 21 Canham St. Hosted by RLG, BLSD and Southern Health for parents, caregivers and children 5 and under. Contact 204-437-2175, chubatyc@blsd.ca, culletona@blsd.ca or ambri@hotmail.com.

Volunteer Drivers Needed – we are looking for volunteer drivers who can help seniors to appointments. If you have a driver’s license and clean abstract we would love to hear from you. Contact Rachel Lachnit resource coordinator 204437-2604.

Sprague Service to Seniors Seeking Volunteers - Seeking individuals to assist and to provide a few services to seniors within our community such as snow removal, transportation for a fee, volunteers in the congregate Meals Programs as well as home cleaning services to seniors for a fee. A criminal record check is required for cleaning services and transportation. Email lgdseniors@gmail.com with your rates and for information, or call 204-437-2604.

Richer Holiday Yard Decorating Contest - All homes in the LUD of Richer are invited to enter. Decorate your house and yard and light it up. Judging will take place between December 19 and 30 from 5 to 9 pm – So make sure you have your lights on! Multiple winners will be announced in January 2024 and invited to collect their prizes during the February 2024 LUD of Richer Committee Meeting.

Richer Young At Heart Dance – Saturday, January 20. Dinner is at 6 pm and dancing until 11 pm. with music by Dennis Nykoliation. Tickets are $25 per person, and can be reserved by calling Ron at 431-275-0874.

Richer Recovery AA Group - Meets every Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall. If you would like more information, call Jeff at 204-371-5518 or Albert at 204-380-3058.

St. Adolphe Old Time Christmas Dinner & Dance - Sunday, December 17 from 1 - 5 pm. Please reserve your ticket in advance by contacting Jules at 204-883-2440 or jrmanaigre@ mymts.net.

Open Bonspiel – Friday, February 2 through Sunday, February 4, 2024 at the Curling Club. Men’s, Women’s, Mixed, Junior Teams welcome! Potential Saturday, February 1 start for nearby teams, based on number of entries. Three game guarantee. Blind Calcutta, Saturday night entertainment included. Entry Fee: $200/Team (Cash Prizes in each event).

Register online at curlstadolphe.com. For more information email us at: curlstadolphe@gmail.com.

St. Pierre-Jolys 3234 Manitoba Horse Cadets – Join us for fun and adventure every Thursday until June, 6:30 – 9 pm at the Community Hall. For ages 12 – 18. Cost is Free. Meet new friends, fun, adventures, leadership, citizenship, community service, drill band, orienteering, and more. Contact Captain Phil Atkinson, phillip.atkinson@cadets.gc.ca. Website 3234manitobahorse.ca.

Ste. Anne Christmas with Santa – Saturday, December 9, 2 – 5 pm.

Come and see Santa and his favourite friends at the Phoenix Cheer Athletics building at 549 Traverse Rd. Music, hot dogs, smores, fires, open gym, gingerbread house competition, and reading with Santa. Pick up your coffee at Dawson Trail Coffee Co. Drop-in Curling Nights – On Saturdays, December 9 and January 13, February 10, March 9, 2024. No experience needed, just need clean indoor runners or curling shoes to have a great time. Registration 6:30 pm, first draw 7 pm.

2 draws 4 ends each. Sign up as individuals or team of 4.

Cost $10/player cash only. Upstairs lounge open, cash only.

Contact Sonya 204-293-8186.

Ste Genevieve Library Night – On Wednesdays, December 6 and 20 from 6 – 7: 30 pm. A mini-library at the Community Centre.

Come check out some books, exchange and request items from the library.

Steinbach Pictures with Santa – Thursday, December 14 from 6 – 8 pm at Days Inn. Free event, open to everyone, including pets! We do ask that you bring a donation item which will be going to Helping Hands. Call us at 204-320-9200 or email info@daysinnsteinbach.com with any questions.

Chase the Ace Fundraiser - Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue – On Mondays at Smitty’s Restaurant. Tickets on sale 6:30 – 8:30 pm, draw at 8:45 pm. 2 tickets for $5. The progressive jack-pot is at $2,054. Winning ticket receives 10% of nightly ticket sales or 50% if the Ace is drawn.

Have fun while supporting animals and maybe walk away with some cash!

Santa is Back – See Santa and take photos at Clearspring Centre.

SAC Earth and Sky Exhibit – Until Friday, December 8, featuring new work by Pierrette Sherwood at the Hall Gallery Steinbach Arts Centre.

Show and Sale - Saturday, December 9 at Clearspring Mall, 10 am - 4 pm. South East Artists are painting and you will have an opportunity to buy local art.

South East Artists - For all visual artists we meet once a week until May 2024 on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 am at Steinbach Arts Council to paint in any medium you want.

For more information contact Ginette at gperroncreations@ gmail.com.

Steinbach Sizzlers 4-H Club - Contact Tatiana Tuttosi loonlover06@gmail.com.meetings at Steinbach United Church, CE Building, 541 Main St. Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Group - Thursdays, at 1 pm.

Registration required. Contact Maggie@steinbachfrc.ca, 204-346-0413.

Royal Canadian Legion Steinbach Branch - Meets first Tuesday of the month via Zoom at 7:30 pm; Ladies Auxiliary meets first Monday of each month, 7:30 pm. Steinbach Legion, 227 Main St – Unit 5. Email steinbach190rcl@ outlook.com.

Al-Anon – Mondays at 7:30 pm Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre back door, downstairs. Contact steinbachafg@ gmail.com.

Creative Writers Club - Second Wednesday every month at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Library, 255 Elmdale St. This is not a class but rather a writing share group where we hope to foster and encourage our participants’ love of writing. Feel free to bring 5 pages of writing (single sided, double spaced) to share with the group. Our evening will begin with an ice breaker and then move into share time. Coffee and tea will be served. Contact Madison Redekopp email mredekopp@ jakeepplibrary.com.

Steinbach Professional Development Toastmasters Club – On Wednesdays at 12 - 1 pm, Eastman Education Centre, 385 Loewen Blvd. Join us in person or by zoom. All guests are welcome! Contact Mark Hiebert 204-371-5197, email mhiebert@barkmanconcrete.com.

Knit-Wits Fibre Craft Club- First Tuesdays of the month at 6 – 8 pm, Jake Epp Library, 255 Elmdale St. Do you enjoy knitting, crocheting, cross stitching and other types of fibre crafting? Join other adults for informal knitting, crochet, etc. circle. All skill levels welcome. Please bring your own project/supplies.

Craft Night - Wednesdays at 7 pm, Jake Epp Library, 255 Elmdale St. Ages 16 years and up join us for a free event, with coffee and crafting. Our craft for the evening will be a beaded spring wreath. There is limited space available. To sign up, email mredekopp@jakeepplibrary.com.

Book Club - Meets on the third Wednesday of each month from 7 - 8:30 pm Jake Epp Library, 255 Elmdale St. Books are available at the circ desk as well as on our Libby App (free with your library card). Please sign up by email mredekopp@jakeepplibrary.com. Limited space available.

Steinbach & Area Lions Club - Meets second and fourth Tuesday of the month, 6:30 pm, South East Helping Hands.

Contact 204-326-2313.

Vassar CWL Fundraiser – Saturday, December 9, 7 pm at the Hall.

Bingo, Silent Auction, special Christmas draw, food hamper and lunch Potluck Community Christmas Dinner – Sunday, December 10 at 12 pm in the Hall. Followed by Santa’s arrival at 1:30 pm. Everyone welcome.

Piney Regional Chamber of Commerce – Thursday, December 14 at 7 pm in council chambers or attend via Zoom.

Contact info@pineyregionalchamber.ca.

Vita Annual Scoring Night – December 9 at the Hall. Scoring at 4 – 7 pm, awards 8 pm. Gun raffle, perogy and sausage dinner. Cost $10. Conatct David 204-371-7925.

Liquor Basket Raffle – Draw Friday, December 15 in support of Childcare Centre. 3 prizes to be won. Conatct any Daycare family member.

Snowshoe Lending Program – RM of Stuartburn has snowshoes and trekking poles available for free. Different sizes for all. Reserve first come first serve basis. Pick up and return at Municipal office 108 Main St. North, Monday – Friday 8 am – 12 pm and 12:45 - 4 pm. Call 204-4253218 to reserve a pair.

Wampum Christmas Program – Sunday, December 17, 11 am at the Salem Lutheran Church. Everyone welcome.

Whiteshell Wolf Howl Hikes -Saturday, December 9, 7 - 9 pm at Alfred Hole Goose Sanctuary. Free event. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Hike along with a Park Interpreter as we trek 2.5 km around the Goose Pond and howl for wolves. We’ll listen for their haunting calls and learn more about this iconic canine. Be sure to bring a flashlight, water and dress appropriately. Registration required online at bit.ly/3O8HqUF.For more information, call 204-369-3157 or email ParkInterpretation@gov.mb.ca.

Christmas Bird Count for Kids - Saturday, December 16, 1 - 3 pm at Alfred Hole Goose Sanctuary. Free event. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Join a Park Interpreter to learn how to identify common winter bird species, to become a citizen scientist as we walk the Goose Pond trail (2.5 km) to record our observations. Afterwards, enjoy hot chocolate and roast some marshmallows around a bonfire. Registration required online bit.ly/3RVI4YQ. For more information, call 204-369-3157 or email ParkInterpretation@gov.mb.ca.

Please email events to editor@dawsontrail.ca for inclusion each month

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

December 2023

Were You Added as a Joint Owner?

There have been two recent developments with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in the past couple of years and it may have an impact on more taxpayers than we (tax preparers) originally thought.

The intention of this article is to put you on notice that another tax return (or two) may be required if you are a joint asset holder: real property or bank accounts.

If this could be you, we recommend you find out what tax returns you may need to file in the next few months.

There is still much grey area as to whether these tax returns need to be filed in these circumstances and there has been much discussion in the tax preparation world in Canada.

And CRA has not been clear enough as to who is affected.

So, in the meantime, be aware that you may be affected. We encourage our clients to at least identify themselves if they are in this situation so once we know if you are affected or not, we can provide the right information.

The two returns are a Trust Tax return and the new Underused Housing Tax return.

Added as joint owner for estate planning?

Have you been added to a bank account for estate planning reasons?

Often a parent will add one or more of their adult children to their bank account(s). They may do this to help them with future banking as they become less able physically or mentally; or it could be to help with the estate administration after they die. There are pros and cons to adding adult children as joint owners, but that is another article and will not be discussed here.

When you are added as a joint owner for these reasons, you could be considered “holding the asset in trust” for the actual owner of the account.

CRA may consider this a “Bare Trust”, meaning you are a trust holder and not a beneficial holder.

Added as joint owner for financing?

Did you assist a family member or someone else with the purchase of a home? Is your name added to the title so they could get the financing?

If so this could be considered a “bare

trust”. A Bare Trust means an asset is in your name (or joint names), but you do not have a beneficial interest in the asset.

For example, a parent may co-sign a mortgage or other loan so their child can purchase the home or other asset. As the parent you have no intention of dictating how the home is managed or maintained and when the home is sold, you do not want to participate in the profit of the sale. You are merely on the title so the financing can be arranged. This may be considered a “bare trust”.

Trust Tax Returns There are new requirements for Trust returns to be filed starting December 31, 2023. The filing due date is end of March 2024. Prior to this year, the only Trust returns that needed to be filed were those that had income to report and pay taxes. If the Trust did not earn income, a tax return was not required.

But now any trust with a year end of December, 31 2023 or later is now required to file a return even with no income to report. CRA wants to know about the trust and who are the beneficiaries.

The grey area is whether these “joint ownership” situations are really considered Bare Trusts since they are not legal, formal trust with trust documents drawn up. It seems CRA does not care if there is a formal trust document in place. They just want to know about it.

This Trust return requirement may also be for those that are joint account holders for estate planning purposes only. If you are an adult child and have been added as a joint account holder to your parent’s account, then you may be considered a Bare Trust: you are an owner, but not a beneficial owner. The money belongs to your parent and the intention is to assist your parent with the banking. And when they die, the intention is for the money to be part of the estate and distributed according to their Will.

Not filing the Trust return if you were required has hefty penalties.

Underused Housing Tax Return The other issue for joint owners of real property is if you need to file the new UHT return. Since it is considered a Bare Trust, you may be an

affected owner and may need to file the return.

Since the property is exempt, there is no tax to be paid, but the return may need to be filed. Not filing the return has hefty penalties.

The UHT for 2022 was originally due April 30 2023, and then extended to October 31 2023 and has been extended again to April 30 2024. Seems CRA knows there is lots of confusion around this new tax return.

File “just in case”?

For now, or at least until we get clarification from CRA, many of us tax preparers are considering filing the tax returns “just in case”. And if we find out later or CRA clarifies later that they are not required, then we can stop filing future returns.

As I mentioned at the beginning, the intention of this article is to put you on notice that another tax return may be required if you are a joint asset holder. Make sure you advise your tax preparer if you hold assets in joint names other than your spouse. You may be considered “a Bare Trust”.

Last minute tax planning If you can, please make some charitable donations before the end of the year. Many organizations need the financial help as there are more in need this year and less people are able to give. If you normally pay taxes, you can save up to 46% tax when you file next Spring 2024.

Merry Christmas, Joyeux Noel, Frohe Weihnachten, Glaedelig Jul your Ste Anne Tax Service team Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and Certified Financial Planner; living, working, and volunteering in our community.

Contact Ste Anne Tax Service at 204-422-6631 (phone or text!) or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Coop) or info@sataxes.ca.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

from the Management and Staff of The Dawson Trail Dispatch

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We design your ad for you, no extra charge. Just choose the number of months you want your business card ad to run, no further input required! Call us today to book your ad at 204-422-8548 or email sales@dawsontrail.ca

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December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrate the Real Meaning of Christmas The Christmas season is upon us again. Have you ever noted the mystery and intrigue around the birth of Jesus Christ, our Saviour? Although Christmas has become commercialized, and this holiday season means many different things to people today (family gatherings, feasts, and gift exchanges); the real meaning of Christmas is the celebration of Christ’s birth.

The God of heaven sent His only Son down to this earth to be born of a virgin, Mary. Luke 1 tells us “The power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore, also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” When it came time for her to deliver the baby, God made all the arrangements. He wanted the baby to be born in Bethlehem, the city of “bread,” so He arranged that Mary and Joseph had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem to pay their taxes.

When they got to Bethlehem, there were no inn accommodations available, so they had to spend the night in a stable. It was here that Mary delivered her baby and laid him in a manger.

The word “manger” in French means “to eat” and an animal manger is the place the farmer places the food for his animals to eat. Isn’t it interesting that Christ was born in Bethlehem, the “City of bread” and then placed in a place of food that is to be eaten.

When Christ started His earthly ministry, He told the people around Him in John 6, “I am that bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever.”

Jesus Christ went to the cross at Calvary and died and gave up His life blood to redeem all mankind. When a person believes this and accepts that payment personally, God forgives them and saves them. That person has just “fed” on the Lord Jesus Christ. Then they need to continue to feed on Christ to grow in the Christian life. A baby that does not eat will not grow, and a Christian that does not continue to feed on Christ will shrivel up and die in their spiritual life.

Your question may be, where do I go to feed on Christ? God has given us His Word, the Bible and it is a revelation of Jesus Christ from beginning to end.

This Christmas, as all the normal activities are going on around you, don’t forget the real meaning of the season, and feed on Christ and He will fill you to satisfaction. No other food is able to do that.

God bless you this Christmas season!

In Time for the Holiday - Cookie Canvas and Acrylic Pouring Workshop The Steinbach Arts Council has a couple of workshops coming up that are sure to put you in the creative holiday spirit.

An Acrylic Pouring Workshop for 16 years of age and older is scheduled for December 14. Learn the techniques and secrets behind creating stunning abstract serving boards with acrylic pour! Highly skilled instructor, Arlene Enns will guide you through every step of the process, from colour mixing to the pouring technique. There are two timeslots available, Workshop 1 (3 pm-5 pm) and Workshop 2 (6:30 pm - 8:30 pm).

A Cookie Canvas Workshop is scheduled for December 9. Join them for a delightful Cookie Canvas Workshop led by Professional Baker, Melissa Voth from The Little Baking Company. Explore your creativity as you bake and decorate cookies with cutter designs chosen during the workshop. Spots are still open for 16 years of age and older, 9:30 am to 12:00 pm. The kids’ workshop is full but is open for the waitlist.

To register, visit steinbacharts.ca/workshops or call 204-346-1077.

Christmas Art Sale at the Steinbach Arts Council Christmas arrives early with the Christmas Art Sale at the Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) now underway.

Find the perfect gift for the special people in your life. Discover unique and affordable items, such as magnets, cards, key chains, coasters, jewellery, and more at the Gift Shop, starting as low as $10. For a limited time, select artwork is 10-70% off, or pick your favourite

original artwork and get an affordable ready to hang print on canvas, starting at $99.

With a variety of options, mediums, and prices, there is something for everyone on your shopping list. SAC has you covered for gift ideas, stocking stuffers, and Secret Santas. If you can’t decide, a gift certificate is the perfect option.

SAC is proud to display local artwork in their centre and around the community in businesses and

homes. Support local artists this holiday season, with work featured from their Buy or Lease Art & Print Program and the Southeast Artist Group. Local artists receive a commission from all art sales to support their talent and future work.

Visit steinbacharts.ca or stop by the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre to view the selection of artwork and discounts available. Give the gift of creativity this holiday season.

Godspell Community Musical Auditions Open The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) is excited to announce the addition of a community musical to their added attractions! Auditions for Stephen Schwartz’s Godspell will be held in early December.

“Our community has been waiting for several years to participate in a musical production, and this show is the first step to restoring that tradition,” said David Klassen, and Jeremy Plett, Co-directors. “The story is a powerful account of the bringing together of community, based on a series of lessons and parables and the Passion story. It is a show for all ages, and we know our community will love every minute of it.”

SAC is looking for a cast of

young adults to perform in this classic 70’s rock musical. The approximate age range of the cast is between 18 and 30, but everyone is encouraged to audition. If you have questions about whether the roles available are right for you, you can reach out to them.

This production is considered an “Ensemble Cast”, which means that actors are all equally weighted, and in the case of Godspell, are all on stage for the entire show.

Cast list includes Jesus and John the Baptist/Judas plus ensemble characters including Nick, Telly, George, Anna Maria, Lindsay, Uzo, Morgan and Celisse.

Rehearsal schedule is slated for Saturdays and Sundays from January 6 until show dates. A detailed schedule will be made available at

auditions.

Auditions will take place at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre, 304 Second St, on Wednesday, December 6 from 5 pm to 9 pm and Wednesday, December 13 from 5 pm to 9 pm. If you would like to audition but cannot attend one of the scheduled audition dates, please contact their office.

Audition materials will be made available at SAC reception. Potential cast members will be asked to sing a song of their choice in addition to the selection provided, and read a portion of the script which will be made available at the audition.

Email your requested audition date to office@steinbacharts.ca. If you have scheduling restrictions, please call 204-346-1077 to give details.

Just in Time for the Holidays, Register for Winter Classes at SAC The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) is thrilled to announce that registration for winter classes is now open.

It’s a full line-up of classes to explore your passion and to keep creating in the winter months, with Arts4tots Preschool Program, Boss Dance, Visual Arts (Everything Art, Mixed Medium Art, Watercolours, Acrylics, and Pottery), Culinary Arts (Kids, Youth, and Adults), Backyard Theatre Company, and Creative Wellness (Yoga, Fitness Fusion, Zumba). Their NEW classes this winter include Culinary Adults, Yoga, Mixed Medium

Art, watercolours, acrylics, Spanish and French to name a few! Don’t miss their After School Arts Programs this winter including Fiddle, Pottery Studio, Improv Theatre, Guitar, and Baking.

“We’ve worked hard this year to develop our Culinary Arts line-up of classes, and we’ve added some new opportunities for our members, like our newest Culinary Youth, Culinary Adults and After School Arts Baking Program,” said Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs. “We’re evolving and growing in our programming, and hope that we’re always offering something for those who return to take our programs, as

well as those who are brand new to us.”

With qualified instructors and high-quality materials, you’ll find classes divided into age-appropriate categories so it’s easy to find the perfect class for anyone.

Whether you’re taking pottery for the first time, or returning as a seasoned visual arts student, they hope you’ll join them this winter.

Registration is open, just in time for the holidays. Purchase a class for a family member or a gift certificate for a loved one. Give the gift of creativity!

Learn more by visiting steinbacharts.ca. Register online or by calling 204-346-1077.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

December 2023

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In the Stillness of the Night About Us: Pat Porter Active Living Centre (Serving Seniors Inc.) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing the community with various activities. We strive to offer programs and events that address your physical, social, cultural, intellectual, and emotional well-being. To learn more visit our website patporteralc.com 2024 Memberships: Take advantage of our Early Bird membership pricing of $25!

Current Programs: Cost $2 for members and $4 for non-members. Programs are subject to change. Check daily sign-up for updated hours. We are closed December 25 and 26 for the holidays. The large portion of our evening events will be cancelled from Monday, December 25 to January 1 to give people the ability to spend time with their loved ones. There is no pancake breakfast in December.

Coffee Corner - Monday to Friday starting at 9:30 am.

Cards - Monday to Friday 1 - 4 pm.

Fun Bingo – Free, Wednesday, December 13 and 20, 6 - 8 pm.

Old Time Country Jam – Wednesdays, 7 – 9 pm except December 27.

Fitness Classes: Laughter Yoga - Monday 1 – 2 pm.

Zumba – Sign up at ppalc.com. Friday, December 1, 6 - 7 pm; Monday, December 4, 1 – 2 pm; Monday, December 11, 1 - 2 pm; Friday, December 15, 6 to 7 pm; Monday, December 18, 1 – 2 pm; Friday, December 22, 6 – 7 pm. Registration required at patporteralc.com.

Tai Chi – Thursdays, 1 – 2 pm except December 28.

Fitness Drumming – Tuesdays, 1 – 2 pm.

Circuit Training – Mondays, 10 – 11 am.

PACE – Wednesdays, 1 - 1:45 pm.

Floor Curling – Wednesdays, 1:30 - 3:30 pm.

Yoga with Carrie – Friday, 9 – 10 am.

Square Dancing - $5. Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm except December 26.

Kids Pickleball –$1. Mondays, December 4, 11 and 18, at 4 – 6 pm.

Walking – Free. Monday to Friday 8:30 - 8:50 am and Tuesday and Thursday, 12 – 1 pm.

Pickleball - No Pickleball on December 14. Monday to Thursday and Fridays from 9 am – 12 pm; December 11, 9 -10:30 am; Wednesdays and Fridays from 4 – 6 pm. Registration required at patporteralc.com.

Evening Pickleball – Mondays, 7 – 9 pm, except December 25.

Beginner Pickleball - December 11, 10:30 am – 12 pm; Tuesdays, 2 – 4 pm; Wednesdays, 1 – 3:30 pm (1 court); Thursdays, 1 - 3:30 pm. Registration required at patporteralc.com Badminton – Mondays and Wednesdays, 12 – 1 pm and Wednesdays and Fridays, 4 – 6 pm. Registration required at patporteralc.com Special Events: Movie Matinee - Monday, December 5 starts at 1pm.

Join us at the Keystone Cinema to watch a holiday favourite: Christmas Vacation. Tickets are $12 and include a popcorn and drink. Please reserve your spot and pre-pay for your tickets ASAP by calling 204320-4600.

Christmas Banquet - Friday, December 8 from 5 – 11 pm.

Our annual Christmas Banquet is just around the corner! Join us for our cash bar, photo booth, Diva in Disguise entertainment during dinner and The Cracked Eggshell to pump up your energy for our dance.

Tickets are on sale online and in-person. Call ASAP 204-320-4600 or visit patporteralc.com Stocking For Seniors - Friday, December 15.

Have someone in mind you want to give a gift to but not sure what to get? We have the perfect option for you! Our Stockings are the perfect present for your loved ones. Although we have named it Stockings For Seniors, people of all ages can appreciate the heartfelt gift this truly is. All of our packages for Meals on Wheels tickets, goodies and anything else you feel like adding for a personal touch. Order online, inperson or by phone by December 15. The best part? We’ll deliver them for you.

Blumenort School Choir - Monday, December 11.

Led by Shannon Sawatzky accompanied by Kim Bestvater-Sidorchuk. Come and join us Monday afternoon for this special treat. The Blumenort School Choir (Grades 5-8) will be putting on a concert for us in our auditorium. This is a free event for anyone to attend.

Rentals: We have rooms of a variety of sizes and prices. For pricing and room, availability visit our website patporteralc.com, email rentals@patporteralc.com or call 204-320-4600.

Meal Programs: A healthy, warm and delicious meal cooked fresh daily and delivered to your door. We have two Meals on Wheels programs running out of Steinbach and Grunthal. Meals may be purchased for $8 for delivery (residents of Steinbach & Grunthal) or pickup. A meal includes soup, a main dish, sides and dessert.

Please call 204-320-4600 with any questions or to order a meal. To receive or cancel a same day meal, you must call before 9 am.

Steinbach Accessible Transit: Need a ride to an appointment or other errand? This service is available to residents of Steinbach.

Please visit our website patporteralc.com for a full price list. Services are available Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm and weekends.

To book a ride, call 204-326-4055. If your call is not answered, leave a message with the answering service. Appointments must be booked in advance to ensure availability.

John 21-3-10… 3) “I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4) Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. 5) He called out to them, “Friends haven’t you any fish? “No,” they answered. 6) He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. 7) Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. 8) The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards. 9) When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread. 10) Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” (NIV) Blessed quietness! That is what it is like on a deserted beach just before nightfall. Can you feel the stillness? Feel the cool water washing over your feet as you walk right at the very edge of the water? See the folks in that slow moving boat close to shore fishing?

A silly thought just popped into my mind. I cannot resist the urge.

I hold my hands around my mouth and shout, have you caught any fish? Someone in the boat shouts back, no we have not. I shout back, cast your lines over the other side of the boat! Silence returns, I wonder what is going through their minds at this very moment.

Take a deep breath, I mean a deep breath! Can you smell the lake?

Or I should say, can you smell the water? It is during times like this that fond memories come rolling back into our minds. We get a little mushy inside, it is a great feeling to have one’s family with them.

In my mind I can see them running in and out of the water, pushing and shoving each other, their laughter reverberates in the evening stillness.

No evening at the lake is complete without a campfire. And of course, the special little goodies that my wife prepares, goodies that taste good, you know the ones you eat after the hot dogs and marshmallows, the little cakes, and cookies. By now everybody is hunkered around the fire eating and talking together. Our voices murmur across the deserted beach. Smoke curls above the fire. The radiant heat of the crackling wood begins to chase away the darkness and the night chill that is closing in on us. There is something magic about sitting around an open fire, our eyes fixed on the flames as they shoot into the air, each with our own peculiar thoughts.

Listen! Can you hear that sound? There it is again! It is a Mourning Dove with a sad cry. Look at that sky, see the beauty in the night sky? Thousands upon thousands of stars, planets, and other heavenly bodies, each in their own prescribed place. Ever wonder how they got there? Who or what placed them there? What about myself? How do I fit into this great puzzle? Looking at my family sitting around the fire I am reminded of that which I have momentarily forgotten.

Let us have a look inside, I mean inside my very own soul. What do I see? Why do I do the things I do? What are my priorities? I will acknowledge there are times when my priorities are not arranged in their proper order. If, I should off-load them on the table for you to see, they might just be arranged in this order I, me, myself, my vocation, our home, pleasure, family, community work, and perchance God. However, when I look at my family sitting around the fire, I commence to rearrange my priorities in this order. See if you agree ... first on the list is God: Because there is a God, plain and simple.

Next on the list is my family: Because I believe God has entrusted them to me. Next on the list is my vocation: Because I now see my family as an integral part of myself and therefore, compelled to provide the necessities of life for them. Next two… community work and pleasures: Then of course comes me…

To God Be the Glory Great Thing He Has Done … Merry Christmas.

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 want peace, joy and happiness that fulfills my heart’s desire. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will honour Your Name. Amen.”

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December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

RCMP FILES If you have any information in regards to any item here you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

RCMP Detachments Respond to Bomb Threats On November 9 at 1:40 pm, Steinbach RCMP responded to an anonymous bomb threat made against the daycare in La Broquerie.

As a precautionary measure, the daycare, along with the adjoining school, was evacuated.

RCMP officers conducted a preliminary search to ensure all staff and students were evacuated. No devices or suspicious items were located.

At 2:15 pm, the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP received a similar complaint in relation to its daycare and school in the community. Both were also evacuated.

RCMP continue to investigate.

Truck Rams Gate in Attempted Break-In

RCMP Quick to Arrest Armed Robber

On October 30, Steinbach RCMP received a report of damage to a property located on the 300 block of Highway 12N in Steinbach. The complainant advised that on October 29 at approximately 5:30 am, an unknown suspect drove a white truck with a known license plate into their property’s front gate and damaged it. It is believed the suspect was attempting to break into the property until the property’s alarm sounded.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

On November 18 at approximately 6:13 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a call of armed robbery in progress at the Steinbach Dairy Queen. Police were advised that a male had entered the restaurant and presented a note to one of the employees demanding money.

He also stated he was armed.

Police immediately attended and arrested the male as he was walking away from the restaurant in the parking lot. While searching the robber, police found a hatchet and a small knife concealed on his body as well as another knife in his backpack. Stolen property was also recovered in the backpack.

None of the employees were injured during the incident.

Terrance Machiskinic, 34-years old from Winnipeg was remanded into custody and charged with Robbery – with Other Offensive Weapon, Uttering Threats against person, Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose, carrying concealed weapon and possession of property obtained by crime less than or equal $5,000.

RCMP Search for Truck Thief and Accomplice During the early hours of November 3 two individuals stole a Ford F250 truck Manitoba License plate FWL793 from a drive way on Cedar Crescent in Steinbach. The two individuals arrived in a smaller truck.

The passenger got out the vehicle and broke into the F250, once they got the truck started both vehicle departed towards McKenzie Avenue.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Thieves in Stolen Truck Steal Propane Tanks On October 31 Steinbach RCMP received a report of 8 stolen propane cylinders from JT’s Store and Diner in Blumenort, around 12:39 am.

The suspects are described to be dressed in camo/black clothing, driving a white Dodge Ram 1500 pickup with Kleysen Group on the side.

This vehicle may be displaying a marker of CKW966 MB and was report stolen to Winnipeg Police Service prior to the incident.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Sprague RCMP Continue to Search for Missing Woman It’s been just over a month since 70-year-old Ywanna (Jean) Backman went missing and Sprague RCMP continue to look for answers in her disappearance. It is believed that Jean was last in contact with a friend on October 15.

Since that time a number of RCMP units along with volunteers, community members and others have been assisting in the search. An extensive ground search was conducted near her residence, but Jean was not located.

Additionally, RCMP units including Search and Rescue (SAR), Police Dog Services (PDS), Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), along with the Office of the Fire Commissioner, the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA), volunteers from Winnipeg Search and Rescue have conducted an extensive ground search.

RCMP have obtained a photo of Jean from October 11, 2023, wearing a green jacket. Investigators believe she may have been wearing that jacket when she disappeared.

If you have any information on her whereabouts please call Sprague RCMP at 204-437-2041, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800222-8477 or submit a secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com.

RCMP Search for Stolen Truck and Trailer On November 4 at 6:30 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen truck and trailer from Reynold’s pond just east of Richer. The vehicle is a GMC RAM 2500 with a blue pearl wrap with Manitoba LP: KMN658. The trailer is a black 20’ flat deck homemade trailer with Manitoba LP: 131DV. The vehicle was stolen between 8 am – 6 pm on November 4.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Keep all vehicles locked. Check on your neighbours.

RCMP Hunt for Stolen Truck At approximately 8:12 am on November 29, Steinbach RCMP received report of a theft of truck on 45 Road E in the 34000 area. The vehicle is described as a 2015 green Chevrolet Silverado with Manitoba plates JBE728.

There is no description available for the suspect other than a person is observed running to the truck from another vehicle parked nearby.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Call 911 if you suspect a crime is in progress or has occured!

Be aware of happenings in your neighbourhood and report suspicious activity to the authorities.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

RCMP Respond to Fatal Vehicle Collision At approximately 5:10 pm on November 5, St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP responded to a report of a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Highway 75 and Provincial Road 305, located in the RM of Ritchot.

The investigation determined that a vehicle, with two occupants, was travelling eastbound on Provincial Road 305 when it approached the Highway 75 intersection. The vehicle proceeded through the intersection and was struck by a northbound semi-trailer.

The 40-year-old female driver of the eastbound vehicle, from Winnipeg, was transported to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The 43-year-old female passenger, from Ste. Agathe, was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced deceased on scene. The 21-year-old male driver of the semi-trailer, from Winnipeg, was not physically injured.

Traffic Stop Leads to Recovery of Stolen Property On November 12, at approximately 12:40 am, a RCMP officer on patrol noticed a vehicle that had been reported stolen a day prior, in a parking lot of a business on Brandt Street in Steinbach.

The officer conducted a traffic stop and arrested the driver and sole occupant without incident. A search of the driver and vehicle resulted in the seizure of several stolen tools, jewellery and a wallet with ID. Further investigation linked the suspect to two other theft investigations.

Nathan Botham, 28, of Steinbach has been charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000 x2, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime under $5,000 x2 and Fail to Comply x3.

He was remanded into custody.

Ste. Anne Man Arrested in Drug & Cryptocurrency Sweep A RM of Springfield, Manitoba man involved in high-level drug trafficking rings has been arrested after RCMP Federal, Serious and Organized Crime investigators uncovered his illicit drug operations and money laundering crimes.

James Robert McGirr, 39, is facing numerous charges after police linked him to several different drug trafficking operations. The RCMP’s Project Divergent, concluded in March 2022, saw 22 individuals arrested for drug trafficking offences, and that investigation opened up avenues into other drug networks, kickstarting Project Decrypt, in which seven people were arrested.

In April 2021, Project Decrypt began by looking at the trafficking of large amounts of illicit cannabis. As the investigation progressed, investigators learned that McGirr had fraudulently acquired a Health Canada licence for a micro-grow operation. In addition, he was using legitimate personal Health Canada medical licences under the names of his associates to feed his criminal networks with the cannabis he was growing.

When investigators were looking at the proceeds of McGirr’s operation, they found that he was laundering his profits by converting cash to cryptocurrency. He did this by purchasing digital money, then transferring that money into a cryptocurrency account.

Further, he helped others launder proceeds of crime cash into cryptocurrency.

On June 8, 2023, 10 properties associated to McGirr were searched in the RM of Springfield, Sunnyside, Navin, and seven in Winnipeg. Another property in Winnipeg was searched in August 2023. The searches resulted in the seizure of more than $6 million in drugs, equipment, and proceeds of crime. More than $3 million in property, more than $2 million in illicit cannabis, almost $700,000 in drug and cryptocurrency equipment, more than $203,000 in lifestyle items, more than $15,000 in Canadian currency, and seven firearms were seized during the searches.

McGirr was arrested at his residence in the RM of Springfield when the search was executed. Daniel Erenberg, 33, was arrested at the search of his residence in Winnipeg.

Five of McGirr’s associates were arrested throughout the month of June in Winnipeg, and one in September.

“The suspect in this investigation was obtaining Health Canada medical cannabis grow licences through fraudulent means and growing vast amounts of illicit cannabis to sell through a criminal network, and then he was converting that ill-gotten cash into cryptocurrency to fund his lavish lifestyle and other criminal enterprise,” said Inspector Joe Telus, RCMP Intelligence Officer. “We see, through Project Divergent and Project Decrypt, how these networks feed off each other and are interconnected. We are not targeting legal users of cannabis. These large-scale operations are producing illicit product and feeding criminal networks, and the RCMP will continue to work tirelessly to disrupt those networks.”

McGirr is facing five Cannabis Act charges and five Criminal Code charges, including Fraud Over $5000, Identity Fraud, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, Laundering Proceeds of Crime, and False Pretences.

Erenberg ran the medical grow operation and is facing charges under the Cannabis Act. Jordan Fletcher, 33, of Ste. Anne, acted as a courier in the operation and is charged under the Cannabis Act. Jamar Smith, 42, of Winnipeg, was a grower for the medical licence grow operation and is charged under the Cannabis Act. Brett Little, 33, of Winnipeg, got the Health Canada micro-grow licence and is charged under the Criminal Code with Fraud Over $5000.

Raymond McGirr, 71 of Winnipeg, a relation to James McGirr, is facing firearms charges under the Criminal Code.

Michael Heckl Junior was a property owner where the illicit medical grow was taking place. His charges are stayed as he is now deceased.

All have been released from custody pending court dates.

The RCMP acknowledges the support of its partners in this investigation: Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC), Forensic Accounting Management Group (FAMG), Civil Property Forfeiture, and Seized Property Management Directorate.

December 2023

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December 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch