Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
New Wheels for Lorette Teen
Steinbach RCMP Respond to Fatal Tractor Incident On June 27 at approximately 9:10 pm, Steinbach RCMP responded to a report of a farm tractor incident on Provincial Road 43. A 55-year-old female resident of the property was operating a tractor in her yard. The tractor flipped and landed on her. She was pronounced deceased on scene. She was with family at the time of the incident. Police concluded their investigation and determined there was no foul play.
By Marianne Curtis A sixteen-year-old girl from Lorette is grateful for the dedication of students and residents throughout the province after becoming the most recent recipient of a wheelchair courtesy of the Tabs for Wheelchair program. It took over 400 bags of can tabs, weighing over 16,000 pounds, but Delaney Kolowca is thrilled to have a new set of wheels. Kolowca said she is very grateful to the many people who collected tabs over the past year. “This chair will help increase my independence,” Kolowca explained. “It will also help reduce the strain put on my shoulders.” Delaney was born with Gorlin syndrome, which is a genetic condition that can affect many areas of the body. Gorlin syndrome can increase the risk of developing various cancerous and non-cancerous tumours as well as affect other areas of the body. She had 17 jaw tumours removed when she was 12 and 120 plus basal cell skin cancer spots removed when she was 13, both related to Gorlin syndrome. She was also born with scoliosis, which is a spinal curvature. In the summer of 2014, she began to have difficulty in walking because of the scoliosis. She had surgery on November 10, 2014, and was given a 75% success rate. Unfortunately, the worst scenario happened and because of the operation, she became paralyzed from the mid chest down. For the past eighteen years, Tabs for Wheelchairs has collected tabs, and used the money raised from the sale of the metal to purchase wheelchairs for people who require the specialized equipment. A standard sports wheelchair costs $6,000 or 14 million tabs; a specialized chair that allows for elevation, costs $10,000 or 24 million tabs. Western Scrap Metals Inc. also provides an additional way to donate to the Tabs for Wheelchairs program. They accept cans or any kind of metal and will credit Holy Cross School Tabs for Wheelchairs upon request.
July 2017
Alcohol Suspected in Rollover Just after midnight on June 9 Steinbach RCMP responded to a single motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Hwy 1 and PR 501. The lone driver of the Volkswagen Touareg was located trapped under the roof of the SUV. The driver had suffered multiple injuries. The RM of Tache Fire Department was able to extricate the 24-year-old male and he was transported to hospital via STARS. Alcohol may have been a factor in the collision.
Impaired Driver Charged Delaney Kolowca, from Lorette received a new wheelchair this month thanks to Tabs for Wheelchairs. Submitted photo
To ensure the success of the fundraiser, the public’s helps is always needed. Several schools in the region are collecting tabs for wheelchairs, including Arborgate School, Ecole St. Adolphe, Niverville Elementary School, Ecole Ste. Anne Im-
mersion, Dawson Trail School, Ecole regional Gabrielle-Roy and Ecole Ile Des Chenes. Tabs can also be brought directly to the Pat Porter Centre in Steinbach.
At around 8:30 pm on June 26 Steinbach RCMP were called to a two motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Loewen Boulevard and Brandt Street. Investigation revealed that the 38-year-old female driver of a GMC Sonoma truck rear-ended with a Dodge Durango driven by a 48-year-old female while she was waiting for the green traffic light. There were no injuries. The 38-year female will be facing charges of driving over the 80% mg blood alcohol threshold. Both drivers are residents from the Steinbach area.
July 2017
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Richer Special Olympian Wins Gold By Marianne Curtis Twenty three year old Ryan Manaigre from Richer, was one of four Special Olympic Athletes from the Eastman region who earned a medal during the 2017 Provincial Summer Games. At the end of the three-day event, which took place June 16 - 18 in
Brandon, Manaigre came home with a Gold Medal in 5-pin bowling. Manaigre got involved in Special Olympics three years ago. He started with swimming the first year and then changed his focus to bowling. According to his mother Kim, Manaigre has been bowling for two years, and “He’s very good at it. Ryan bowled 37 points above his average on all 4
games he played!” said Kim. “I don’t know where these high scores were coming from but I am guessing his cheering squad got him motivated.” He always had a positive attitude about doing his very best this weekend, mom continued. “When the Gold medal was handed to him, he shouted ‘My Precious’ quoting from Lord of the Rings,” Kim added.
“People laughed and cheered him on for his amazing accomplishment.” Manaigre was not the only big winner from the region who won that weekend. Gilbert Fehr, got emotional when his name was called and he received a gold medal in his 5 pin bowling category. “They did all the other awards first and then they did 5-pin awards. So, when they did 5-
pin awards I was really, currently, actually on my feet standing and waiting. Then, of course, when they called my name I was bawling and tears.” Tim Hiebert claimed bronze in 5pin bowling and in golf; Dusty Buchan earned a silver medal. The Special Olympic Nationals take place next year in Nova Scotia.
Ryan Manaigre from Richer is all smiles after earning a Gold Medal at the 2017 Provincial Summer Games thanks to his exceptional skills in 5-pin bowling.
New Niverville School Fast Tracked By Marianne Curtis The Hanover School Division and the province have put out a request for proposals from architectural teams to finalize the design and tender for a brand new high school to be built over the next year. According to the province, the new school is a priority based on the greatest need due to high enrollment pressures. They are hoping that by fast tracking the project, shovels will be in the ground in spring 2018 and students in the classroom by September 2019. The province will be funding the construction of a new high school for 450 grade 9 to 12 students in Niverville with the capacity to expand to serve 550 students with the future construction of a fourclassroom addition. The Hanover School Division has agreed to work with the Public Schools Finance Board (PSFB) on an expedited schedule that will enable project tendering
in early 2018. The new 66,700-sq.-ft. Niverville high school will have regular classrooms, science labs and an art room plus other specialized spaces such as a large library, computer rooms, resource teaching and guidance areas, life-skills suite, multipurpose room, band room, drama room, a large gymnasium and fitness room. It will also feature an integrated child-care centre that will accommodate 20 infants and 54 preschool children. It will be designed to achieve a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver rating. This builds upon the PSFBs long-standing practice of constructing highly durable, energy-efficient school buildings, the minister noted. The deadline for submissions is June 23, with the contract to begin by June 28. The PSFB is the provincial agency established in 1967 with responsibility for financing major capital projects in Manitoba’s public schools.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Goertzen Centralizes Health Care with New Organization By Marianne Curtis Consolidation efforts are being made by the Manitoba government to centralize the roles of regional health authorities across the province. Health Minister Kelvin Goertzen announced that a new organization called Shared Health Services Manitoba has been created to focus on patient-centred planning. The new entity will be led by Dr. Brock Wright, Chief Medical Officer of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. Under Shared Health Services Manitoba, some health care services will be managed centrally as they reach across more than one region, such as the operation of Health Sciences Centre, including Children’s Hospital, Transplant Manitoba, provincial laboratories, diagnostic imaging and emergency medical services such as ambulance services and dispatch. The province made this decision based on the findings of numerous studies of the province’s health-care system. They will establish a pro-
vincial health organization (PHO) to improve patient care and provide co-ordinated clinical and business support to the province’s regional health authorities. “Manitoba’s health-care system is complex and siloed, with eight independent organizations each doing their own planning, standard setting and service delivery in relative isolation of one another,” said Goertzen. “This is neither efficient nor effective and has been identified as a major impediment to improved access to quality health care and our ability to manage costs in a sustainable way.” The creation of Shared Health Services Manitoba stems from recommendations in both the 2015 commissioned Provincial Clinical and Preventive Services Planning for Manitoba report by Dr. David Peachey (the ‘Peachey report’) and the 2016-17 KPMG Healthcare Sustainability and Innovation Review. The PHO will repurpose the existing corporate shell of Diagnostic Services Manitoba (DSM), meaning no net increase in organizations
within the health-care system. Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living (MHSAL) will divest its service delivery programs to Shared Health Services Manitoba while retaining focus on policy, planning, funding and oversight of the provincial health-care system. Certain functions of the Winnipeg region will be shifted to Shared Health Services Manitoba so the expertise they hold may be used to better support the entire province, the minister noted. The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority will refocus its efforts on local service delivery in Winnipeg and Churchill and on the continued implementation of the region’s Healing Our Health System plan. “Regional health authorities will continue to be responsible for the provision of front-line health-care services in their region and will participate in provincial planning to ensure the delivery of effective services to all Manitobans,” said Goertzen.
Fire Claims Thousands of Hogs Near New Bothwell
Thousands of hogs perished in a barn fire southwest of New Bothwell.
On June 9, thousands of hogs perished because of a fire that tore through Hespsler Farms, south of New Bothwell farm. The New Bothwell Fire Department arrived on scene at about 9:30 pm, and quickly called in additional help from Kleefeld, Grunthal and a water truck from Niverville. New Bothwell Fire Chief Paul Wiebe confirmed that the departments took a defensive role. “We did what we could to knock it down.” At the end of the night, two barns with a connecting link were destroyed and an estimated between 3,500 and 4,000 hogs perished in the fire.
Jason Falk is a part owner of Hespeler Hog Farms. He was at home when he said his neighbour came over after spotting the fire. “I thought he was talking about someone else’s barns,” Falk told media. “As I drove out to see the smoke billowing, I called 9-1-1 immediately.” Falk could do nothing but watch as part of the facility burned to the ground. Hespeler Hog Farms is a family operation with eight shareholders. The facility is left with two finisher barns and a nursery barn. The farm has already suffered a difficult spring after having to deal with porcine epidemic diarrhea
Photo by Marianne Curtis
(PED). PED is very contagious and is generally fatal to young pigs, although older pigs can recover. “So this will just complicate that, as there will be a lot of traffic coming and going. So we want to make sure we do not contribute to the spread of this for sure,” said Falk. The cause of the fire is not yet known. The Office of the Fire Commissioner is assisting with the investigation. Wiebe said the damage is expected to be in the millions.
July 2017
July 2017
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Canada’s 150th Anniversary This July 1 marked our 150th birthday as a country: a day to celebrate Canada. I am thankful to be able to describe Canada as a prosperous, diverse, stable, caring, compassionate and free country. These blessings are a result of the solid foundations laid by our Fathers of Confederation. 150 years ago, our forefathers wrestled with the question “How will we describe this vast new Canada of ours?” The term “Kingdom of Canada” was suggested, but that didn’t quite fit. Then, during one of his daily Bible readings, Samuel Tilley - one of the Fathers of Confederation was struck by Psalm 72:8, “His dominion shall be also from sea to sea.” This same verse is now engraved on Parliament Hill’s Peace Tower, a reminder to all who visit Canada’s Parliament that God’s hand has indeed been over the Dominion of Canada ever since Confederation. We must also remember the courageous men and women who have united us as a nation, the visionary leaders, industrious immigrants, and strong families who work hard every day to help make Canada a better, stronger, more prosperous country. We must celebrate those who continue to fight for our freedom, to unite and make us proud to be Canadian. I am thankful for our past and I am optimistic about our future. When I reflect on Canada Day, what stands out for me is the fact that we gather together peacefully, and we honour the core values of our forefathers as we work together toward building an even better, stronger Canada for future generations. As we celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday and the solid foundations upon which we have built this great nation, may we remain steadfast in our convictions, honour those who make Canada great, and rededicate ourselves to the service of our great country, Canada: strong, united and free.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
About Politics and Results of Unintended Consequences I read with some apprehension about Premier Pallister’s mini tantrum or mediocre acting vis-à-vis the Federal government programs. Two files have him up in arms, health and the tax on carbon (carbon pricing) emissions. Twelve out of all provincial and territorial governments have signed off on the health files and eleven on the carbon tax file, our Premier has closed the health file and will go to court on the tax on emissions. On the health file, he appears to leave millions of dollars on the table and on the carbon emission file; he’s putting his hopes on a court case. The question he’s asking the court is, “Does the Federal government have the right to impose this consumption tax?” The short answer will be, “Yes.” So the question is what are the government’s motives? At this time, it appears to be an ideology race with Premier Wall of Saskatchewan, because squeezing more transfer payments out of the Federal government seems too difficult to say the least. The restructuring of the delivery of medical services is also an added complication in the health question. To not let us see the health care study that initiated these proposed changes will most probably create unintended push back. Perhaps he feels we are not sufficiently mature to view this document. This will in turn likely backfire. We Canadians get a bit uppity about health care. Remember, that was not an issue you ran on. The reason for this impasse between the Federal and Provincial government is largely due to the economy not growing as fast on both levels to keep their promises. The Feds will likely have a greater deficit than forecasted and Manitobans will likely pay 8% PST for a longer period of time. Unintended consequences but within of the realm of reality. Let’s review an incident in our history. Some of our earlier Provincial governments changed the conditions of Manitoba’s entry into Confederation on May 12, 1870, after the Red River Rebellion. Our original principals were that we were inclusive and equal in religion, race and languages (that is, French and English). Equality was paramount including having provincial status. Through the subsequent and purposeful insistence of narrow political ideology, one language, one race and one religion was enforced. Many years later, our history was corrected by the Supreme Court, back to its original intention. How many of us can remember the idiotic reasoning for those past stains on our heritage? How many dwell or remember these past idiots responsible for our history? Maybe a dozen of us on a good day. The financial health of Manitoba Hydro and the obvious need to face up to the initial cost of a greener economy will impose an unintended reality on quite a few future budgets. It would probably work better with positive political leadership, but here is the kicker, with or without Manitoba Government participation, we will be part of Canada’s future. History will be written and unintended political consequences will be recorded, Canada will continue with superlative adjectives and proud citizens. Politicians are responsible for their own adjectives. We should remember the words of a very bright politician, “Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not to his own facts.” -Daniel P. Moynihan.
Claims for Asylum Fall in May According to statistics released recently, the number of illegal border crossings for the month of May near Emerson has dropped to 106 from 146 in the previous month. This follows an earlier drop of approximately 14% from March to April. “I am very pleased to see the number of illegal border crossings drop for the second straight month,” said MP Ted Falk. “While this two month trend is definitely encouraging and I hope that the message of ‘seeking asylum in the proper manner’ is starting to resonate, the overall numbers for 2017 are still worrisome.” Asylum seeker border crossings have concentrated in three areas of the country, Emerson Manitoba; Hemmingford, Quebec and Surrey BC. In 2016 there were 2,464 crossings near these three communities. This year, in the first five months asylum interceptions have been 3,461. RCMP asylum claims reported for Quebec were 2,569, Manitoba at 583, and BC at 293 individuals. “While I am encouraged with
the short term downtrend and hope it continues, we must remain diligent,” said MP Falk. “I will continue to push the Trudeau government to show some leadership on this issue, protect the sovereignty of our border, and fight for a long term solution.” “Canada is a generous and accepting country and our immigration system reflects that,” added Falk. “Canadians expect our government to preserve a secure border and a consistent, safe and fair system for all those seeking to make Canada their new home.” Human Rights organizations are proposing a different solution to reduce illegal border crossings. On June 27, Amnesty International (AI) and the Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR) released a brief calling for Canada to suspend the Safe Third Country Agreement with the US. “We are shocked and disappointed that the Canadian government continues to hold to the view that the US is a safe partner for refugee protection,” said Alex Neve, Secretary General of Amnesty International Canada.
Under the Safe Third Country Agreement refugees who present themselves at a Canada-US border post making a refugee claim in Canada are, with limited exceptions, denied access to the refugee system and immediately returned to the United States. The Agreement does not apply to individuals who cross irregularly into Canada, other than at a border post, and subsequently make a refugee claim inside Canada. Those making irregular border crossings from the US face perilous situations in inclement weather and isolated locations, as well as exploitation by people smugglers. “This Agreement encourages desperate people to take desperate measures which may put their safety and even their lives at risk,” said Loly Rico, President of the Canadian Council for Refugees. “From the perspectives of humanity, human rights and responsible border management, the Safe Third Country Agreement should be suspended. There has been no convincing explanation from the Canadian government as to why they will not take that step.”
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
The Busy Month of June June is a busy month for many reasons. My favorite reason is that June is the month for graduations. I would like to congratulate all the grads for 2017 as they end one chapter in their lives and move on to another. Many are leaving home to further their education, start careers in the work force or just take some time to figure out what they want to do in life. Over the years I have attended many grad ceremonies and listened to some great guest speakers whose message has been, no matter what you have chosen to do next, just remember, dreams are important, everyone needs one, but you also need to be willing to put in the work it will take to achieve those dreams. Once again I would like to congratulate all the grads and wish them all the best as they start the next chapter in their lives. We are all proud of your accomplishments. Happy Birthday Canada July 1, 2017 is Canada’s 150th Birthday, as I write this article, Canada’s Birthday has not arrived, but by the time you read this, it will have past. There will have been many communities holding special events celebrating this important day. I hope Canada’s 150th Birthday was a special one for you. We can all be proud of this country we call home. We need to show the world that we live in the greatest country in the world and we are proud of it. Happy Birthday Canada. International Legislative Forum On June 26 – 28, I attended the 17th Annual International Legislators Forum that Manitoba hosted here in Winnipeg. Delegates from North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Manitoba got together to discuss issues that are important to both sides of the border. Presentations were made by experts on the chosen topics. This year’s topics were Tiling-Subsurface Water Management, Criminal Justice Reform and Alternative Energies. Some of this year’s guest speakers were Christopher J. Gunning, Consul and Principal Officer, United States Consulate from Winnipeg and Consul Paul Connors, Consulate General of Canada, Minneapolis MN. The forum works together to find solutions to problems that don’t stop at a border. As always, I look forward to hearing from you with your questions or concerns. I can be reached at my Constituency office at 204-424-5406, my Legislative office at 204-945-4339 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov. mb.ca. Thank You.
Legislative Session Saw Completion of Important Work Our Progressive Conservative team passed 28 government bills and 2 private member’s bills in three months. Continuing on our path to make Manitoba the most improved province in Canada, we have new laws that will help fix the province’s finances by reducing the deficit, sustain our public services, improve the child welfare system, and bring predictability to the minimum wage and save Manitobans money on their power bills, among many other important measures. Our entire PC Caucus decided in early March to take a freeze on our MLA salaries until the next general election, and we then began working even harder to fix Manitoba’s finances. Our government’s new Fiscal Responsibility and Taxpayer Protection Act ensures financial sustainability for our province with a commitment to smart fiscal management, after the previous NDP administration doubled the provincial debt in just eight years. This new law requires real progress toward balanced budgets through progressively smaller deficits, and includes pay cuts for cabinet ministers who fail to achieve legislated deficit-reduction targets. With other legislation, I have been directly involved in working with a non-partisan committee that hired the new Advocate for Children and Youth. I am pleased to see our government taking strong steps to better meet the needs of children in care by giving the Children’s Advocate increased powers and responsibilities. The new Advocate for Children and Youth Act expands the mandate of the Advocate’s office beyond Child and Family Services in order to help other vulnerable kids and young adults. I look forward to returning to the House in the fall. In the meantime, its graduation season and festival season in Manitoba. Congratulations to the many recent graduates in Dawson Trail! My own son, Seth, was among the graduates of College Louis Riel and it was my privilege to attend his ceremony on June 26. Best wishes to all as they move forward to their summer and future plans! Everyone in Dawson Trail seems to be capitalizing on the chance to host outdoor events and it’s so good to be out of doors. The Eastman ATV Ride for Mom in support of CancerCare Manitoba and the Richer Tractor Trek kept me in the fresh air earlier this month. I am so proud to have seen all of the event posters around our area for the Canada 150 celebrations happening around Dawson Trail on July 1. I attended the Open House at the Richer Dawson Trail Museum on Canada Day, just one example of the many community groups that put a lot of effort into celebrating this once in lifetime milestone. Where were you on July 1? Whatever you did, I hope you celebrated safely with family and friends. Happy Birthday, Canada! It was a big one!
Letter to the Editor: All Sides Dear Editor: Just wanted to thank you for writing and publishing the articles entitled “Questions of Impropriety Over St. Adolphe Park Raises Controversy” and “Former Mayor Makes Bid to Reclaim Seat Amid Allegations of Conflict of Interest” in May and June issues of the Dawson Dispatch. Appreciate the fact that you/re willing to look at the other side. Corinne Webb
July 2017
July 2017
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Ste. Anne Coop Supports Wildlife Haven By Marianne Curtis Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre, in Ile des Chenes, has received another major financial contribution after the recent presentation of a cheque from Ste. Anne Coop. On June 27, the Ile des Chene’s Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre’s new education facility received a $125,000 donation through Co-op Community Spaces. The funds go towards the construction of the organization’s new $2.5 million facility in which visitors will learn about the importance of wildlife preservation, conservation and nature. Judy Robertson, President with Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre said they are grateful for the generous gift. “This generous gift from Co-op puts us a step closer to realizing our dream of a permanent facility to help rescue, rehabilitate and release more injured and orphaned wildlife,” said Robertson. ”It will also help us educate more people about safe and healthy wildlife interaction through a classroom or distance learning setting.”
The new Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre’s education centre will host wildlife education programs that will also be broadcast to remote schools and communities. The finished grounds will house a fruit orchard and a naturalized wetland pond that will be stocked with fish. “Co-op Community Spaces is an exciting program that is making a difference across western Canada and we’re delighted to see it come to Ile des Chenes,” said Henry Nickel, General Manager with Ste. Anne Co-op. The Co-op Community Spaces is a funding program supporting recreation, environmental conservation and urban agriculture projects. In total, 27 organizations are being supported through the program this year. Combined, these groups, which include nonprofits, charities and community service cooperatives, have received $2 million for their community projects. Since launching in 2015, Co-op Community Spaces has provided $4.5 million to more than 60 projects across BC, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta.
The Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre in Ile des Chenes celebrated a generous $125,000 contribution to the facility with a special tour and tree planting with local students.
Prairie Grove Bee Keeper Relocates Swarms By Marianne Curtis Over the past few weeks, countless southeast residents have been begging for help after discovering swarms of bees on their homes and in their yards. While the initial reaction may be to grab an insecticide, a beekeeper from Prairie Grove urges residents to call a professional to relocate the swarm instead of killing them. Bee Keeper Darnell Plett offers free swarm removal throughout southern Manitoba. A swarm is a large cluster of bees about the size of a football congregated on a tree branch, signpost or some other convenient place. While clustered they have scouts looking around for suitable homes. “If someone finds a swarm it is important to call ASAP since the window of time for rescuing them is small, sometimes just hours before they move into some possibly unsuitable new home where they’ll get exterminated or freeze out in the winter,” Plett explained. “June and July are prime swarming months. I’ve already picked up a swarm and have spoken with another bee keeper who has had a bunch of swarms leave his bee yard already.” Bees swarm as they form a new colony after the queen bee leaves the colony with a large group of worker bees. In the prime swarm, about 60% of the worker bees leave the original hive location with the old queen. A swarm can contain thousands to tens of thousands of bees. “We need to do what we can to protect the bees; the basic answer is that bees are
threatened. And they keep much of our food chain going,” said Plett. “When I come along and place them in a box they seem thrilled, they settle right down and get to work. Sometimes they are building honeycomb by the time I get them home.” Bees are amongst the most important insects because they pollinate over 80% of all flowering plants, including 70 of the top 100 human food crops. Since starting beekeeping three years ago, Plett now has 80 hives. Residents dealing with a swarm can call or email Darnell for free removal at honeypotplett@gmail.com or 204-270-0115.
Prairie Grove Bee Keeper Darnell Plett is the person to call when dealing with a swarm of bees.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Full Slate of Hopefuls for Ritchot By-Election By Marianne Curtis RM of Ritchot residents have a full slate of candidates to choose from when they head to the polls to vote in a municipal by-election. Sixteen political hopefuls put their names forward in hopes of becoming either the new mayor or councillor; including the former mayor and all four of the previous councillors. The July 19 by-election was called after the province stepped up after the sudden resignation of the mayor and two counsellors. Unable to gain a quorum with only two remaining councillors, the province dissolved council, appointed an administrator who was tasked with calling the byelection. In the race for Mayor, Marianne Curtis, Chris Ewen and Gene Whitney are taking on former Mayor Jackie Hunt, whose resignation started the chain of events that led to the by-election. Former Councillor Ernie Dumaine
is being challenged by Larry Niebel, Phil McDonald, and Shane Pelletier in Ward 1 (Ile des Chenes). Four candidates are competing in St. Adolphe (Ward 2) including Karen Jorgenson, Jeff Egan and Robert Doiron. Ron Mamchuk, who resigned, is seeking re-election. Former Ward 4 (Grande Pointe/ Howden) Councillor Corinne Webb is being challenged by Janine Boulanger, and Elmer Hywarren. In Ste. Agathe (Ward 3), voters will only be voting for mayor because former councillor Jeannot Robert was acclaimed. In a statement to media, Robert stated that he resigned, “Due to the abuse by some Councillors towards our Mayor.” In her official statement of resignation last month, Hunt claimed to resign in order to start a conversation on bullying at the municipal council level. “When a Council cannot function as a group, and when mediation does not work, and when name calling and belligerent
behaviour become the norm, it is time to re-evaluate your spot at the table,” stated Hunt’s original statement. “I gave up my seat so that it might start a conversation at the Municipal and Provincial levels of government about how to better protect the residents that want to serve our communities.” Once elected, the new council will be expected to get to work immediately. One of the first tasks to be tackled by the new council will be the completion and approval of the 2017 Municipal budget. RM of Ritchot residents will have an opportunity to meet their candidates during a Meet the Candidates Forum on July 11. The Ritchot Regional Chamber of Commerce is hosting the event, which is taking place at 7 pm at the TransCanada Centre in Ile des Chenes. All municipal candidates have been invited to participate in the event.
Providence Coaches Named Volunteers of the Year Two coaches from Providence College were among a select few athletes and coaches recently recognized with awards at the 2017 Volleyball Manitoba Annual Awards & Hall of Fame Banquet. On June 11, Providence College Coaches Kyle Guenther and Scott Masterson were named Volleyball Manitoba Volunteers of the Year. The coaches were recognized for their work in co-chairing the volleyball tournament at the 2016 Manitoba Summer Games in Steinbach as well as 2016 17U/18U Girls and 2017 17U/18U Boys Provincial Championships. Masterson, who is the Director of Athletics at Providence and Head Coach of the Pilots men’s volleyball team, said investment in the development of youth sports in southeast-
ern Manitoba is part of the institution’s vision. “We have historically been doing this through our summer sports camps and our club volleyball program, and I see our work in helping organize and run these highlevel competitions as another way in which we can accomplish this goal,” he explained. Guenther oversees the Providence club program and coaches the Pilots’ women’s team. He said he was honoured to receive a volunteer award, although, he said, neither he nor Masterson was seeking recognition. “I really enjoy hosting events as part of my job here at Providence, so it was an easy decision to be involved in hosting the Manitoba Summer Games last summer and the Volleyball Manitoba Provincial Championships the last two years,” he said.
Acknowledging that large events require a team effort, Masterson pointed to the contributions of Hanover School Division, Steinbach Regional Secondary School and Clearspring Middle School. “We have had hundreds of athletes and their families come to Steinbach, and to these schools, over the past year,” he said. “They were greeted with great facilities and by the friendly community of Steinbach.” The Volleyball Manitoba Awards & Hall of Fame Banquet is an annual celebration that recognizes outstanding athletes, coaches, volunteers and officials. The evening was capped off with the Volleyball Manitoba Hall of Fame inductions.
Providence Coaches Kyle Guenther and Scott Masterson were named Volleyball Manitoba Volunteers of the Year.
Supplied photo
July 2017
Landmark Student Pleads for Second EA
Sixteen-year-old Mikayla West and her mom Patricia West hope that Hanover School Division will reinstate her second education assistant so that she can graduate at the end of 2018 without missing anything.
By Marianne Curtis A Hanover School Division student is worried that her final year of high school will be jeopardized after finding out she will be losing one out of two required education assistants. Sixteen-year-old Mikayla West just completed grade 11 at the Landmark Collegiate. At the end of the school year, she learned that one of her two EA’s is being transferred out of the school. Patricia West explained that her daughter, who lives with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, requires the assistants for personal, not educational purposes. At the age of five, West was diagnosed with Type 3 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). SMA is a neuromuscular disorder that affects the development of a person’s muscles, as well as the progressing deterioration of the muscles. “Due to her unique needs, it is difficult for her to be okay with just anyone assisting her,” said West. “Both Mikayla and I feel very strongly that her current EA should remain with her for the remainder of her time in Landmark Collegiate.” Patricia said she has taken the matter to the Hanover School Division, the union, her caseworker, along with her MP and MLA. “What I have been told is that this is a union issue and a collective agreement and there is nothing they could do,” West continued. “Mikayla is upset by the fact that this is her privacy, dignity, pride, on the line and no one seems overly concerned with this fact.” Mikayla said that SMA has always made her somewhat reliant on people, but after a surgery in 2012, that level has drastically increased. “I need help with almost everything. I need help with getting in and out of bed, going to the bathroom, showering, getting dressed, getting food and drinks, getting my jacket and boots on and off, brushing my hair, and many other things,” Mikayla explained. “The most intimate and uncomfortable of these daily tasks, that others take for granted, but I need help with, is going to the bathroom. As you can hopefully imagine, this is extremely difficult for a 16 year old teenage female, but this is my reality.” West said losing her EA would prevent her from attending numerous field trips, including the annual Grad Campout at Camp Arnes, volunteer day, and the Grad photography trip near graduation. Patricia hopes that over the summer months a suitable solution can be found so her daughter can finish school without missing opportunities. “We have also been informed that the school has received less funding next year and due to that, her EA has the least seniority and therefore will be transferred,” West added. “I did receive a call from the Minister of Education’s office this morning. She informed me that she will just need to deal with this.” Mikayla is hopeful that the Hanover School Division will reconsider their decision. “I understand that things change, staff move around and there are reasons for this. However, I hope you will consider the person behind these decisions. Imagine that you were in my position, imagine if you knew someone in my position, and imagine if your daughter was in my position. Then, make a decision that best suits your person, not your numbers. I am not a number,” Mikayla pleads.
July 2017
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
July 2017
La Broquerie Celebrates 120th Saint Jean-Baptiste Days On June 24 and 25, the village of La Broquerie hosted their 120th annual Jean Baptiste Days celebration. Since the very first Saint JeanBaptiste Days celebrated in La Broquerie back in 1897, the community has gathered to celebrate Francophone culture and history. Christian Normandeau, who heads the local Saint Jean-Baptiste Days Society chapter, said the annual celebration of French heritage doubles the population of the rural municipality over the weekend. “It’s a 120 year anniversary we celebrated this year of the St-Jean-Baptiste [celebrations] here in La Broquerie. It has nice and long roots in La Broquerie as being a Francophone community festival,” he said. Every year, the community gathers for concerts, sports and recreational activities, a special mass and parade.
The history of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day goes back hundreds of years. Originally, it was a day to remember St. John the Baptist, a Christian Saint. That changed in the spring of 1834 when a French-Canadian businessman named Ludger Duvernay attended a St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Montreal. He thought that French Canadians should organize a similar day to honour their own heritage so he formed the Saint
Jean-Baptiste Society, and the holiday was first observed on June 24 of that year. Saint Jean-Baptiste Day became an official holiday in Quebec in 1925 and from that point on, the yearly celebration has become a celebration of the Francophone culture and its history.
The RM of La Broquerie Reeve Lewis Weiss and Councillor Ivan Normandeau presented a commemorative plaque to Christian Normandeau, President of St Jean Baptiste Days Committee recognizing the 120th anniversary of the event.
SAC Office Closed July 12 – 23 for Summer Holidays The Summer Arts Day Camps run daily July and August. Try it and Celebrate Canada’s 150th! Only $20 a day - during July 3-7 camp. For emergencies, contact Cindi at director@steinbachartscouncil.ca or 204-326-8571. Summer Arts Day Camp! Come join us. A Full Summer of Fun is waiting for you!SAC Member: $125. Non-Member: $145 (Plus Membership and $5 Swim Fee). 2 separate camps! Camp #1 Ages 5 - 8 and Camp #2 Ages 9 - 12. Each week is jam-packed with creativity, sports, dance, music, drama, art, community field trips, swimming, Splash Park and more! Canada’s 150th Birthday to Friday, July 7. Touring the World Monday, July 10 – Friday, July 14. Our Community Monday, July 17 – Friday, July 21. Life at Sea Monday, July 24 – Friday, July 28. SCORE! Sports Week Monday, July 31 – Friday, August 4. Animal Planet Tuesday, August 8 – Friday 11. (4-Day Camp due to holiday.) Disney Monday, August 14 – Friday, August 18 Sign up for Fall Programs - try something creative and new Backyard Theatre Company Wants You! Build your confidence, ignite your creativity and explore your imagination. Get involved with the community! Discover the process of preparing for a play, character building and practicing scripts and final Production on stage at the SRSS Theatre for ages 5 - 18. FUSION! Musical Theatre Program for Ages 9 - 14 and 15 – 19. Music, Dance and Drama. Register online steinbachartscouncil.ca. Arts4Tots Preschool Program…Montessori-Infused Curriculum. Don’t miss out on your spot! Why are we unique? The most creative way to learn for ages 3 - 5 with specialists in dance, music, drama and visual arts. Come join Miss Pam and Miss Jen for a year full of creativity, arts, field trips, learning and more. Mon/Wed am or pm and Tues/Thurs am or pm. Creative Wellness - New Power Pilates! Basic Core Pilates, New! Pilates Intermediate, on the Ball Pilates, Zumba, New! Belly Dance - 3 Workshops. New! XCOMPANY 12 Week Dance classes at SAC. No costume fees, no fundraising obligations, no competitions….just pure fun! Try Hip Hop, Jazz, and Dance4Tots Creative Movement. Cooking – Creative Cooking, Kids in the Kitchen, New! Teen Cuisine, Cake X-Travaganza Workshop and Couples Cooking Workshops. Languages – Spanish and French.
There were tons of activities for children during the 120th annual Jean Baptiste Days celebration.
Horse Owners Cautioned About EIA Horse owners throughout the region are being encouraged to keep an eye on their livestock after it was confirmed that a horse infected with equine infectious anemia attended a recent rodeo event. Hanover Ag has been informed that an equine confirmed to be infected with equine infectious anemia (EIA) attended the Spring Rodeo in Grunthal, on May 27. Other equine participants at the event could have been exposed to the EIA virus by means of fly transmission or by contact with contaminated blood or other bodily fluids. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) strongly recommends that all participants that took part in any events at the Spring Rodeo, from May 26 – 28, consult their accredited veterinarian and have their equines tested for EIA. If your equine is showing signs consistent with EIA, it should be tested immediately. If it is not showing clinical signs, CFIA recommends waiting at least 45 days after the last possible date when exposure could have taken place. Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) is a disease that threatens the world’s horse, donkey and mule populations. Despite testing and measures to eradicate the equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV), more than 500 new cases are identified each year in the US. There is no cure for EIA. Although most infected horses show no symptoms, they remain contagious for life, endangering the health of other horses. For this reason, regulatory agencies require euthanasia or strict lifelong quarantine for horses testing positive for EIAV. EIAV is transmitted by blood or from mare to foal. Blood transmission can occur via bloodsucking insects, such as horse flies, deer flies and mosquitoes. The virus is carried in the residual blood on the insect’s mouthparts as it travels from one horse to the next.
Visual Arts Kids - Hand Building with Clay, Art Adventure, Art X-Travaganza, New! Canvas & Colas. Teens - Mixed Art, Pottery Passion, Digital Photography, Cartoon Illustration, New! Digital Media and Programming. Adults - Watercolour, Oil, abstract Acrylic Painting - Beginner & Intermediate. Contemporary Acrylic, Digital Photography, Intro to the Pottery Wheel, New! Canvas & Cabernet Paint Nites at SAC. New! Moccasin Making Classes! Make your own moccasins, mukluks, gloves…and learn how to bead them yourself! Call us for details. New! Southeast Music Conservatory. The Arts Centre is full of the top music teachers in the region and it’s time to book your spot now. Shannon Unger, Darrel Friesen, Hannah Humphries, Natalie Dawe, Candace Hamm - Top instructors in cello, violin, voice, piano and theory. Accepting students now. Many performance opportunities. Call the office to get your name on the list. Calling all Teachers! – Celebrating Arts Creatively Bring your classrooms to Out 2 Arts! Creative projects in dance, theatre and visual arts at the Centre with our professional local artists. Designed to fit within your curriculum, custom made for you complete with snacks, hall gallery exhibit tour and more! The most creative way to learn! Call Cassandra to book your workshop. All grades, all class curriculums. Youth – and FUN! Join the Creative Youth Council! Events for youth, by youth. The next Turnip the Music event is planned for next spring at the Randolph garage. Call to join in the fun! Last call - Reserve your seats as a Season Ticket holder. Our 2017 - 18 concert series includes our annual Holiday Pops concert with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Manitoba Theatre Centre, Quartetto Gelato, Mission Potluck comedy, and so much more! New Koncerts 4 Kidz series with PTE and Bubbleman! You won’t want to miss this season! Call now to reserve your seats. Call 204-346-1077 for more details on all programs and concerts. View events and purchase tickets online: steinbachartscouncil.ca.
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July 2017
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Richer Inn Goes Green with Solar By Marianne Curtis The Richer Inn will soon become the first hotel in Manitoba to take advantage of the Manitoba Hydro Solar Power Initiative by installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) system to offset their hydro costs. Kim Loewen, one of the four partners in the Richer Inn said she is excited to announce the project. Thanks to a conversation with a customer a few months ago, the business expects to be 100% energy free in a few years and that by the end of summer the business will be completely connected to solar energy. “I met a customer and I found out that he makes these solar panels,” explained Loewen. “After learning more about the program and what he does, I realized that it would be really smart to do it here.” Loewen estimates that her monthly hydro bill ranges from $2,500 to $3,500 per month. Once connected, the hotel will be selling hydro energy they do not use and in the winter, they will be able to operate on that credit. “With the Manitoba Hydro incentives that are available right now, I can afford to take the money I would pay monthly on hydro and put it towards this loan,” said Loewen. The system is being installed by local company AC/ DC Utilities and expected to be hooked up by the end of summer. Lee Guetre, another partner in the hotel loves the fact that eventually they will not have to pay any hydro bills. “The idea is to create as much kilowatts as we use so it eventually doesn’t cost anything because we produce as much energy as we would normally buy,” clarified Guetre. “When we looked at the cost
of hydro and the cost of doing business; green energy seems to be the cost effective solution that will pay for itself as time progresses.” Both partners are so impressed with the incentives they are planning to hook up their personal residences in hopes to eventually be completely “off the grid”. “You have to pay for the system initially, but if you are paying for it with the value of your hydro it ends up not costing you anything after a number of years,” Guetre continued. “It also becomes a future selling point as a homeowner because you can sell the home as “energy free”. Guetre said that he is very thankful that Manitoba Hydro and the province have taken the lead to develop this green energy program. The Solar Energy Program was designed for customers who would like to install a solar photovoltaic (PV) system to displace their own electricity needs with solar energy. It is available to available to residential, commercial and industrial customers. It must be a minimum size of 1 kW system to a maximum of 200 kW and it must be connected to the grid. Systems greater than 10 kW may be subject to a customer-paid feasibility study with the incentive paid at the end of the project, once the PV system is installed and passes inspection. The incentive is limited by the average annual electricity consumption (kWh) at the site, and the amount of solar PV required offsetting annual electricity bills. “It is a very good program; maybe the federal government should take that into consideration and follow our province’s lead,” Guetre concluded.
Richer Inn owners Lee Guetre and Kim Loewen finish signing the contract with Alphonse Pilon of AD/DC Utilities that will make them the first hotel in Manitoba to be hooked up to solar energy.
Summer in the City Fills the Streets By Marianne Curtis Despite some rain, this year’s Summer in the City Festival was well attended. For three days, Steinbach’s Main Street was transformed into a bustling hub of activity complete with sidewalk sales, live music, entertainment and fun. Taking place from June 17 - 19, shoppers were treated to fantastic deals when about forty vendors lined the streets and thousands took advantage of the many bargains. Cultures in the City, hosted by Eastman Immigrant Services were once again a favourite with even more food vendors and live entertainment. Many countries were represented through song, dance and music. Local artists also had a chance to display their work and some even held live demonstrations of their craft in a bistro type atmosphere. When it came to music, the Summer in the City organizing committee had three major acts take the stage. The weekend kicked off Friday with music by 2017 Juno Award Winner Jess Moskaluke. On Saturday, Tom Cochrane made a return trip to the main stage after being the first major performer to perform at the inaugural festival back in 2009. Steinbach’s Summer in the City came to an end on Sunday after Worship in the City wrapped up the weekend’s festivities including their first ever afternoon headliner Dan Bremnes.
Tom Cochrane and Red Rider’s return to the main stage thrilled local classic rock fans with their familiar rock anthems.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Sacred Site in Whiteshell Vandalized
July 2017
11
Police Hunt for Stolen Dirt Bike On June 21 at some point during the night a Red Dirt Bike CRS 250 was stolen from a garage on Birchwood Lane, in Mitchell. If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).
RCMP Search for Stolen Mountain Bike Between June 10 and June 11, at some point during the night, a mountain bike, blue and gray in colour was stolen from a back yard on Main Street in Steinbach. If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).
Vandals recently rearranged a petroform snake at this sacred site in the Whiteshell.
By Marianne Curtis A tour guide visiting a sacred petroform location in the Whiteshell Provincial Park is stunned and outraged after discovering that vandals desecrated the historical site. Diane Maytwayashing said she was leading a tour group of students to see the Bannock Point petroforms when she made the disturbing discovery that someone had destroyed one of the figures. “I felt my heart fall to my stomach. It was really horrible,” said Maytwayashing who guides visitors to Bannock Point and Tie Creek. Maytwayashing, an Anishinaabekwe woman and area guide educator, said the snake represented an ancient and sacred feminine story. She believes the destruction of the snake petroform and the building of the Inukshuk was a malicious act of vandalism. “This is an important historic Indigenous site, considered sacred by many people. The vandalism of it is very disappointing,” she said. The Bannock Point Petroforms are figures laid out on shield bedrock in the forms of turtles, snakes, humans, and abstract patterns. Anishinaabe
and other First Nations people believe that they were left here long ago for the benefit of all people that might visit this site to receive their teachings and healing. While there are no fixed interpretations of the figures, there are many levels of understanding, therefore, many ways to interpret the teach-
Photo supplied by Diane Maytwayashing
ings. Visitors will even leave offerings as each visit becomes more meaningful. The petroforms sites are sacred places used by First Nations people for ceremonial purposes. If ceremonies are in progress, visitors are asked to postpone a visit. Park visitors are expected to respect these sacred places as they would a church, synagogue, mosque or other place of worship.
Untouched, the site is considered sacred and visitors will leave offerings within various figures. Photo by Marianne Curtis
Seine-Rat River Conservation District Moves to Steinbach The Seine-Rat River Conservation District (SRRCD) is still open for business, but serving the region from a different location after relocating from La Broquerie to Steinbach. The new Seine-Rat River Conservation District’s head office relocated to Friesen Avenue in Steinbach. The organization now has plenty of space after converting a house into a fully functional modern office. The home was redesigned to host district meetings on the main
floor, including a welcome area with informational resources for visitors. Former bedrooms have been converted into offices, while the basement is a multi-purpose area designed to accommodate the needs of the growing district. The organization also converted the two-car garage into a workshop and the spacious property is ideally situated downtown. The SRRCD was started fifteen years ago, in the RM of La Broquerie. Its boundaries include all or
portions of the RM’s of La Broquerie, Ste. Anne, Hanover, De Salaberry, Ritchot, Tache, Stuartburn, Springfield, Reynolds, Montcalm, Franklin, Piney, the City of Steinbach, the Village of St. Pierre-Jolys, the Town of Ste. Anne and the Town of Niverville. Seine-Rat River Conservation District has funding available to fence off dugouts and waterways and to install alternative watering systems (solar, wind, electric). Apply now for next year. Call 204-4257877 or email roseau@srrcd.ca.
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July 2017
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Splash Pad Opens in St. Pierre-Jolys
On July 1, the community of St. Pierre-Jolys opened up a brand new splash pad at the Parc Carillon.
By Marianne Curtis On July 1, the community of St. Pierre-Jolys celebrated the grand opening of a new splash pad built in the community’s Parc Carillon. Raymond Maynard, President of the Parc Carillon Committee said the project was made possible thanks to the community and various government grants. “When young families expressed their wish for a splash pad in our community, the Village Council challenged them to do the research and fundraising, as it needed to focus
on the lagoon expansion,” explained Maynard. “Two years later, we are celebrating the grand opening. It’s amazing!” The new 2,500-square-foot splash pad was built by PlayQuest. Designed with a “frog-theme”, the new community splash pad provides a fun way to recognize the community’s French-Canadian heritage. It features sequenced water movements to keep it fresh for kids of all ages, with low flow, and designed for low maintenance features and long-term sustainability. “The goal has always been to open this summer to help celebrate Canada’s 150th,” said Murielle Bugera, Project Coordinator. “When we learned we were successful
in our application for a Canada 150 Infrastructure grant, we all worked even harder to make sure the splash pad would be operational for an official opening on Canada Day.” The Parc Carillon Committee started fundraising as soon as the Village Council accepted their feasibility report and recommendations. Since May 2016, the many volunteers raised over $270,000 of the $300,000 budget. The Canada 150 grant of $108,872 reflects one third. A donor board with the names of all donors giving $250 or more will be installed next to the splash pad to recognize the great community support.
July 2017
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“La Brise” Farmers Market and Bazaar Planned for La Broquerie The La Broquerie Community Development Corporation (CDC) is inviting local merchants, artists, entrepreneurs and producers to register for the 1st annual La Broquerie Farmers Market and Bazaar. The annual event named La Brise as in “the breeze” has a historical anecdote referring to nickname given to the community in the 60s. In the pioneer days, the “habitants” (Habs) of La Broquerie often tore their pants on barbwire fences, creating “breezy” garments. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, August 2 from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Hylife Centre Arena. Cost is $20 a table with a maximum of 50 tables available. La Brise is coordinated with a free community BBQ sponsored by the CDC. Qualified food producers, artists, craft makers, home based business products such as Epicure, Tupperware, Norwex, Tea, garage sale items, and collectables are invited to set up. Vendors will need to register by July 7 for a table and payments can be mailed or paid in person by cheque to SDC LAB CDC or by cash. For more information, contact La Broquerie CDC at 204-3710379 or email sdclabroquerie@gmail.com.
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July 2017
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
C ommunity E vents Gardenton Gardenton Ukrainian Museum & Village Festival – On Saturday, July 15 at 12 am. The 52nd annual Gardenton Ukrainian Festival invites everyone to its Ukrainian Festival at Gardenton Park celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday. Afternoon stage show featuring Ukrainian entertainment. Evening dance to live band, Ukrainian cuisine, museum with pioneer artefacts, original schoolhouse, travel exhibit “125 Years of Ukrainians in Canada”, beer garden, and many children’s activities. Day pass $10; children 12 and under free. Dance/light lunch $15. Contact Kelvin 204-425-8197 or Helen 204-453-4041. Giroux Bingo - Every Thursday at Giroux Hall. Doors open at 5 pm, Bingo starts at 7 pm. Hall rental information for Socials, weddings, family functions, Meetings and more please call Debbie 204-424-5506 or Mike 204-326-6260. Glenlea Farm & Food Discovery Centre (Research Station Road, Glenlea) Summer Programs: Ice Cream Party - Sat, July 8 - make homemade ice cream. Insect Investigation – On Saturday, July 15 - Lean about bugs that are all around us and then wander outside to catch insects buzzing around the centre. Dairy Day – On Saturday, July 22 - Explore the dairy barn and learn about how we get milt to make cheese and yogurt. We will finish the day by making some ice cream. Canola Crush – On July 29 - Tour the Centre and learn how to crush canola to make canola oil. Grunthal Grunthal Slo-Pitch Tournament – On Saturday, July 8 at the Centennial Park. Cost $200/team, 4 games guaranteed. Coed tournament 4 girls minimum. Cash prizes. Beer gardens & food concessions. Contact Justin 204-392-4585. Standard First Aid for Horses – On Saturday, July 8 from 9 am - 4:30 pm at Lily Ridge Ranch. Cost $149 (includes manual, materials, lunch, and more). All you need to help your horse in an emergency. Preventing Injury, Preparing your Horse for Treatment, Detecting and Alleviating Pain, Common Hoof Problems, Digestive Emergencies, Respiratory Issues, Bandaging, Equine Vitals (including weighing your horse without a weight tape. Disaster Planning and Emergency Preparedness for Horse Owners – On Sunday, July 9 from 9 am – 4:30 pm at Lily Ridge Ranch. Cost $149 (includes manual, materials, lunch, and more) Evacuation Procedures, Preparing for a Natural Disaster and Extreme Weather, Building an Evacuation Plan for On-Site, Local, and Long Distance, Safety Concerns around the Barn -Equine Body Language and more. Contact to register 204-951-4088 or lilyridgeranch@gmail.com. Hanover Ag Fair – from Thursday, August 17 – Sunday, August 20 at the AG grounds. Events include a parade, live entertainment “Home Free”, Bullarama, CWHA Horse Show, MRCA/CCA Rodeo, Gymkhana, Family Fun Zone, AG on the Moove in the Agucation Centre, Enduro Cross, Demolition Derby, Motocross Free-Style Jumping, vendors and displays. Day & weekend passes available. Contact info@hanoverag. com. Hadashville Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great stress release and have an excellent workout at the same time. Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or KSTA. academy@gmail.com. Ile-des-Chênes Taekwondo – On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 – 8 pm at the Ecole Ile Des Chene School. Cost $40/month, family rates available. Contact Kangs.mb.ca, Master Bill Tam 204296-8217. Parent Child Playgroup - On Wednesdays from 10 am – 12 pm at the School, Rm142. Contact idc.mb.playgroup@ gmail.com. Story Time in Pyjamas - Every Thursday evening at the Ritchot Library Ecole Regional Gabrielle-Roy at 6:30 pm. Ages 2-8 however all ages are welcome. Yoga- On Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30 - 7:30 pm at the TransCanada Centre. Cost is $15/class or 10 classes/$125. Zumba - On Mondays and Wednesdays, from 7 pm – 8 pm at the TransCanada Centre. 10 classes for $75 or $10 drop in. Contact sarah.abraham@gmail.com. 50+ Programs - At the Trans Canada Centre Indoor Walking - Mondays, Wednesday & Friday 9 – 10 am Yoga - Monday 10 -11 am Coffee Talk - Wednesday 10 - 11 am Block Therapy - Tuesday 10 - 11 am Water Colour Painting – Thursday 10 - 11:30 am Line Dancing - Thursday 7 - 8 pm Floor Curling - Friday 10 am – 12 pm Contact to register Mary Ann vintageclub@transcanadacentre.com, 204-339-6141. Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturday of every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn about Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive Blessed Rose Petals and other Sacramentals from
Blessed Mother’s place of miracles. Contact Corinna 204878-4908 or email her at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for more info and register.
glassware to Jets tickets and jerseys! Bud, Spud and Steak Special and more! Check out and like Richer Community Club Facebook page for updates. LGA License #1392RF.
Kleefeld Community Playgroup - For parents, caregivers and children up to age 5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs and snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the Kleefeld Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013.
Adult & Teen Challenge Concerned Persons Support Group Join us Thursday evenings at 7 pm, in the Richer Fellowship Church, 50 Southeast Drive. If you have a relationship with someone who has a life-controlling problem, join us for this nine-week Living Free course. Receive encouragement and support in a safe setting, and learn practical ways to best help your loved one. Contact Pastor Ben Funk at 204-326-2254 or phone the church at 204-422-5308.
La Broquerie Eastman Immigration Services - International Cooking Classes – On the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month in La Broquerie. Space is limited. Contact to register 204-346-6609 or email lois@eastmanis.com. Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de Santé from Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan, 204-424-5285 or labseinerss@gmail.com. Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. Cost $10. Lorette Scribblers Coffee House – On Thursday, June 8 at 7 pm featuring Duncan Cox and the CLC choir and band at the Bibliothèque Taché Library. Admission is Free. Collection for the main act, coffee and goodies. Open Mic to follow. TD Summer Reading Club – Hosted by Bibliothèque Taché Library. It’s free. Open to kids age 0 - 17. Craft & Storytime every week. Prizes to be won! Every participant that hands in their reading logs will receive a goody bag at the end of the summer. Lego Club – On the last Wednesday and Thursday of the month from 6:30 - 7:30 pm at the Tache Library, 1082 Dawson Rd. Please register, as space is limited. Open to all ages! Contact 204-878-9488, email btl@srsd.ca. New Horizons Seniors - Play cards, Scrabble and more. Drop in Tuesdays 1 - 5 pm at Foyer Notre Dame Lorette, 12 St. Amant Ave. Contact Iris 204-878-3552. Ritchot Senior Services Foot Care Clinic - On Wednesdays, June 14, July 5 and July 26 by appointment. To reserve contact Janice 204-883-2880. With Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse. Marchand Logging Days – From Saturday, August 19 – Sunday, August 20. Slow pitch Tournament, evening dance in the park, kids games and so much more!
Richer Recovery AA - Group meets Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Paul at 204-422-7673. Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey Pchajek Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating grades 8 and 12. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC License # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 or doreen@spmf.ca. Sarto Ukrainian Dance Club – On Mondays from 7 - 8 pm at the Sarto Hall. Join the Sarto Polevnyi Ukrainian Dance Club for the season! You do not need to be Ukrainian to dance! Boys & girls, ages 3 to adult, no prior experience required! Cost starts at $150/year. Sprague Sprague & District Historical Museum - Open by appointment from June – September 30. Explore life as it was in the early days. Free Admission. Donations Accepted. Contact 204-4372210, 204-437-2209 or 204-437-4686. St. Adolphe Fort Whyte Day Trip – On Tuesday, July 11 sponsored by the Ritchot Senior Services, Head out over to Fort Whyte Centre for a tour and lunch designed especially for older adults. Space is limited so please call to reserve a seat. “Blossoms and Blooms” go “wild” over our wildflowers! From the small, sweet scent of the bedstraw to the large nodding head of the sunflower, we have it all. Learn to recognize the most beautiful wildflowers of the forest and prairies. Cost of tour and lunch is $15.50. Contact 204-883-2880, ritchotseniors@ mymts.net. C.H.I.L.D program – On Wednesdays from 9:30 - 10:30 am at Ecole St. Adolphe School. Children’s introduction to learning and development. Contact sas@srsd.ca or 204-883-2182. Pickle Ball – On Thursdays from 6 – 7:30 pm hosted by Club Amical at the St. Adolphe school gym. Contact Alma at 204883-2251.
Mitchell Fun Days – On Saturday July 8 from 8 am - Sunday, July 9, 1 pm at the Seniors Centre and Stahn Field Ball Park. Saturday a free Pancake breakfast, Flea market, Slo-Pitch Tourney, Petting Zoo, Balloon Man John. Kids Games, Silent Auction, Barrel rides, Wagon Rides, Peddle carts, Kids Bouncers, Face painting, Free Bingo, Evening Entertainment, Car Show & Shine, Chicken Bar-B-Q Supper, and Amazing Fireworks. Sunday - Church Service and free lunch.
Lunches & Bingo – On Thursdays hosted by Club Amical. Contact 204-883-2491.
Niverville The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club – Meets every Monday at 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to become a better speaker, run meetings that are more effective or develop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Club is the place to start. Contact Sheryl Berglund, Sberglund4@shaw.ca.
Ritchot Senior Services – Monday - Thursday from 9 am- 2 pm at 457 Main Street. Contact 204 883-2880 or Ritchotseniors@mymts.net. Monthly Activities: Block Therapy - On first Wednesday of the month 6 – 7 pm. Mood Disorders - Monthly Meeting - On first Thursday of the month at 2:15 pm Art Class - On first Monday and second Tuesday of the month, from 7 – 8 pm. Weekly Activities: Cardio Fit - On Mondays from 9:30 – 10:30 am. Chair Fit - On Mondays from 11 – 11:40 am. Yoga - On Wednesdays from 1 – 2 pm. Muscle Fit - On Thursdays from 9:30- 10:30 am Foot Care Clinic - On Friday, July 28 by appointment. To reserve contact Janice 204-883-2880. Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse.
GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced the loss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learn about the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to register or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com. Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six. Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.) Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com. Prawda Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondays and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact Wendy 204-348-2433.
Athena Women’s Beginner Hockey – Contact Bahia Taylor, bahia@envypaintanddesign.com for details and costs. Badminton Nights - At the school gym on Monday nights between 6 - 8 pm. $2 drop-in is required. Contact yvandupuis@gmail.com.
Weekly Bingo – On Tuesday nights at the St. Adolphe Community Club. Doors open at 6 pm, 6:55 pm - Speedo Game, 7 pm - Early Bird Games, 7:30 pm - Regular Games. We hope to see you there! Proceeds will support the Community Club.
Catholic Community, #5 St. Malo St. For persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns; individual and support groups. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228. St. Pierre-Jolys Frog Follies & Agricultural Fair – Begins Thursday, July 13 to Sunday, July 16. Ag Fair, exhibitions, demonstrations, the National Frog Jumping Contest, Ultimate Frisbee contest, live entertainment, slo-pitch tournament and many children’s activities. Contact 204-226-0527 or info@frogfollies.com. The Knights of Columbus - The St-Pierre Carillon Council – On the first Thursday of the month at 482 Jolys Ave. W. Contact 204-433-7633. Ste. Agathe Cheyenne Summer Fest – From 6 pm on Friday, July 14 – Saturday, July 15 at Cartier Park. Join us for the parade, Pioneer Games, fireworks, horseshow and family baseball tournaments, pancake breakfast, live entertainment and much more. Ritchot Senior Services Foot Care Clinic - On Tuesdays, July 18, August 29, October 11 and November 21 by appointment. To reserve contact Janice 204-883-2880. With Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse. Ladies Hockey – At the Arena. All levels welcome, including first timers. Contact cougarsrechockey@gmail.com for more info and costs. Walking/Running Club - A walking and running club held on various weekdays at 7 pm, contact carly.flowers@hotmail. com. Taekwondo - Every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:15 - 7:30 pm at Ecole Sainte Agathe hosted by Kang’s Taekwondo Academy. Cost $40/month. Family rates available. Contact Jason Barnabe, jason.barnabe@gmail.com or 204-802-3458.
Drop In Book Club – 2nd Tuesday every month at 7 pm in the Jake Epp Library. We’ll post the book for discussion that month and if you’d like to join us please stop by. If you want to start your own book club instead, you can always take advantage of our Book Club collections. No sign up required. Just read the book and come hang out. Knit-Wits Drop-In Club for Adults - Knit-Wits - Every 4th Monday of the month, from 6 – 9 pm at the Jake Epp Library. This is for anyone interested in fibre handcrafts such as knitting, crocheting, cross-stitch, needlepoint etc. This is not a class but a casual knitting circle for all skill levels. Please bring your own items/supplies. TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) – On Wednesdays, from 8:45 - 10:30 am at the Royal Canadian Legion. Cost $2/ week. A weight control support group that helps take off pounds sensibly and keep off pounds sensibly. Contact BettyLou Toews at 326-6397. Eastman Immigrant Services - Many events and activities to support and help you make new friends. Volunteer to help at our community events. Every Day English All Levels - Every Wednesday 1 – 3 pm. Reading & Writing – All Levels on Monday and Wednesday from 10 am – 12 pm. Pronunciation All Levels - On Monday and Wednesday from 7 – 9 pm at D4-284 Reimer Ave. Classes are free. Upcoming Events: IELTS in Steinbach, November 2. Futsal, every Monday 9 – 11 pm at the EM Church on Main St, IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems) on May 25. Call to reserve your place. Southeast Entry Program Online: Learn about Health Care, Employment and Laws. To register for this 4-week online program, contact Josie@eastmanis.com , 204-346-6609 or email lois@eastmanis.com.
Ste. Anne Learn to Play Pickleball – Calling all active seniors. On Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 am, at the Ste. Anne Tennis Courts (weather permitting). You only need good clean running shoes, sunscreen, water, and a lawn chair (optional). Drop in fee of $3 or register $25 for the season. Contact Erika 204 422-5843.
Eastman Safety Upcoming Programs - Located at 385 Loewen Blvd. Register online at eastmansafety.ca or contact 1-204371-1595.
It’s Story Time at Your Library- Wednesday at 1 pm and Friday at 11 am at the Bibliothèque Sainte Anne Library. Come and enjoy story time with your preschooler. Please call or email to reserve a spot 204-422-9958 or email steannelib@ steannemb.ca.
Creativi-Tea Time - Need to relax? Every second Wednesday of the month, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Come and go as it suits you. We’ll provide basic supplies; feel free to bring your own. Includes tea and coffee.
Seine River Services for Seniors – Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. Cost $10. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local services or e-mail labseinerss@gmail.com. Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Centre on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 - 8 pm. A large selection of books in both French and English, for children and adults. Special requests can be made to the librarian, e-mail btl@srsd.ca or 204-878-9488 or in person. Come for a visit and see what we are all about. Steinbach Food Truck Fair at the Community Plaza – Every Thursday, beginning on July 6 from 11 am - 2 pm until the end of July. Calling all foodies! The City of Steinbach is excited to introduce “Food Truck Fair” at the new Community Plaza in front of T.G. Smith Centre this summer. Summer Movie Night at the Library – Begins Thursday, July 6 from 6:30 pm - 8:45 pm. at the Jake Epp Library. Bring a pillow to sit on, your family and your friends. Admission is free and so is the popcorn! July 6 “Sing”(rated G), July 13 “The Lego Batman Movie” (rated PG), July 20 “Pan” (rated PG), July 27 “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” (rated PG), August 10, “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” (rated G), August 17, “Mr. Peabody & Sherman” (rated G), August 24, “Kung Fu Panda 3” (rated G). Odd Job Squad BBQ – On Thursday, July 13 from 11 am – 1:30 pm sponsored by Country Meat & Deli and Manitoba Youth Job Centre. Support the Manitoba Youth Job Centre and the hardworking youth of Steinbach and area! Cost: $2.50 - $4.
Richer Richer Rough Stock Rodeo – Friday, August 11 at 10 am to Sunday, August 13 at 10 pm at the Dawson Trail Park. The award winning Richer Rough Stock Rodeo!! Friday Night Bullnanza! Weekend Rodeo action! Social and Concert/Social! Many activities for the entire family. See www.richerrodeo.ca
St. Labre St. Labre 200 – From Friday, July 7 to Saturday, July 8 in St. Labre. On Thursday, July 6 Campground and pit bays open for teams. Who will be champion of this year’s 200lap 1/4 mile dirt track race. Join us for a Community Supper, Live Bands “MYNT” and “Wreckage”, Drone Race and Demo, Calcutta, Split Pea Soup Cook Off , Excavator Rodeo, Balloon Bouncers, petting zoo, Wood Carving Demonstration, D & G Family Archery Range, Rubber Boot Toss, Alumni Race, Powder Puff Race, Old Fart Race, Red Bomb Ultimate South Eastern Manitoba Fireworks Show and free pancake breakfast on Sunday at 8 am. See www.stlabre200.ca for more information.
Richer Community Club Chase the Ace! - Every Saturday at the Richer Inn from 5:30 - 7:45 pm. Tickets only $1 each. Jackpot is growing! Door prizes on random Saturdays ranging from
St. Malo Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba - On the last Monday each month at 7 pm at Paroisse St-Malo/Blessed Marguerite
Summer Reading Club - Join us at Jake Epp Library for a summer full of fun and reading! Register for 7-week home-based reading program free with a library membership. All children
Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.
finished kindergarten through grade 8 are welcome. Keep your kids reading all summer long! Craft classes and reading circle (book club) are also available.
Crafts & Laughs: Book Bag Painting – On Monday, July 17 from 7 - 8 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Kids, bring your parents to the library for a craft night where we will be painting our own book bags! This is a parent-child cooperative craft class, therefore children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Cost $5 per parent-child pair. Advanced sign up is required. Limited space available.
Mommies Group at Kidzone - On Wednesdays, from 9 am - 1 pm. Come by to meet other moms to chat with and get your kids to make some new friends. Cost $7, free coffee.
Games Day & Games Night – Every 1st Saturday of the month from 12 – 5 pm and the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6 – 8:30 pm, at the Jake Epp Library. Come down to play strategy games. Bring a friend, your strategies and games. Test your skills and have fun. Ages 14 and up unless accompanied by an adult. Contact 204-326-6841, programs@ jakeepplibrary.com. Royal Canadian Legion - On 1st Tuesday every month at 8 pm and Ladies Auxiliary meets 1st Monday of each month at 7:30 pm at the Steinbach Legion Community Hall, 294 Lumber Ave. For the summer months, last meeting is in June. Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the United Church of Steinbach, 541 Main St. Registration for girls 5-17. Develop personal values and well-being, self-respect and respect for others; promote fun, friendship, adventure and challenges through new experiences; develop leadership and decisionmaking skills; give service to the community; value the natural environment. The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon except when Monday falls on a long weekend at the Chicken Chef, 365 Main Street, visitors are welcome. Contact Cornie at 326-3155. Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for family and friends of people with mental health issues are held the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden East building, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email eastmanmss@mts.net MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living with multiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursday evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place apartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email nadine.konyk@ mssociety.ca. MS Lunch Group- On 4th Thursday of every month, from 12 – 1 pm at All D’s Restaurant 320 Main Street. Contact Stephanie Bevacqua 204-988-0904, Stephanie.Bevacqua@mssociety.ca. Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support groups - Meets on the first Tuesday of each month from 1:30 – 3 pm at The Eden East Office, 21 Loewen Blvd For persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
July 2017
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Niverville Hosts 20th Olde Tyme Fair The Bethesda Regional Healthcare Auxiliary - meets on the first Tuesday of every month except for the months of July and August at the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone interested in auxiliary work. Contact Verna Thiessen at 3263028.
Woodridge The Mobile Clinic – Is onsite on the third Thursday of every month from 9 am – 4 pm at the Community Club. Contact for appointments 1-855-644-3515 or southernhealth. ca.
Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at the Magnolia Restaurant. Contact 204-326-2313.
General Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- Starts again in the fall. Let us do the driving! Join us for a fun filled day. Tour from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Begins at 8:30 am, pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village. Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cash giveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from the casinos for those wishing to play. Bi-monthly overnight trips to South Beach Casino are also available, amazing prices on these trips so call for details. Contact Marilyn at 204-326-4939 for information and reserve a seat.
Carillon Toastmasters - Meetings open to adults who want to improve their leadership and communication skills. Thursdays at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, Contact Sheryl at 204-326-7628 or Irene at 204-4245737. Al-Anon Program – Meets on Mondays at 7:30 pm at the Cultural Arts Centre back door, downstairs. Contact Lloyd 204326-4365. Al-Anon 12 Step Recovery Group - Meets on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm at United Church, 541 Main St, front door, ring doorbell. All are welcome. Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group starts at 4:30 pm at Steinbach Family Resource Centre B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact 204-346-0413.
Please email your local community events to editor@dawsontrail.ca for inclusion each month.
On the second weekend of June, the population of the Town of Niverville swelled by a few thousand people when the Olde Tyme Country Fair took over the community’s Main Street. Starting June 9, the community of Niverville was transformed into a tourist playground when the two-day festival kicked off with old time favourites such as the midway, show and shine, and country street market. Friday night featured a complimentary food-festival, a street dance featuring local artists and a blackout fireworks finale. Saturday began with a pancake breakfast, a parade, and a variety of entertainment all day. Activities such as motocross, high dive and trampoline performances drew the younger crowd.
The Washboard Union was a huge hit at the Niverville Ole Tyme Country Fair. Photo by Marianne Curtis
Live music was one of the many ton Blair, The Washboard Union highlights of the weekend with and Cold Creek County capped off performances by Big City All Star the night. Band, and on Saturday night Quin-
Thief Grabs Cash from Hotel Safe The Oakbank RCMP is investigating a break, enter and theft that occurred at the Anola Motor Hotel on June 8 at approximately 3:20 am. Officers discovered that a suspect climbed over the outdoor patio fence to gain entry into the hotel. Once inside, the thief broke into the safe and fled with an undisclosed amount of cash and property. Surveillance cameras on site obtained photos of the suspect who is described as wearing loosely fitted dark pants, light-coloured windbreaker jacket, runners and a backpack. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Oakbank RCMP at 204-444-3847 or call Manitoba Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1800-222-8477, submit a secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers. com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).
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July 2017
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Bethesda Hospital Auxiliary Announce New Projects By Marianne Curtis At the beginning of June, the Bethesda Hospital Auxiliary celebrated their volunteers, paid off their most recent fundraising project and announced what their next campaign will purchase. Bethesda Hospital Auxiliary spokesperson Verna Thiessen, said the night was a huge success. She was one of four long service volunteers recognized for years of dedication to the community after volunteering for two decades (20 years). Olive Froese (25 years) Annette Friesen (25 years) and Florence Thiessen (20 years) were also recognized for their service. Now that the Bethesda Hospital Auxiliary has paid off their last project, they have announced their new fundraising goal. The organization has set its sights on raising $21,800 for the purchase of a number of specialized chairs. “The chairs requested for this year are all going to make patient care easier and provide a safer environment,” said Thiessen. “They will be made of hospital grade vinyl, and placed in the Emergency Room and Surgical/Obstetrics department.” Four patient chairs will be purchased for the emergency room, for stable patients waiting for treatment at a cost of $6,400. They are expected to enhance patient flow and reduce wait times for people needing a stretcher. Another $2,900 will be spent on a Broda Elite Tilt Recliner, which is expected to assist elderly patients requiring supportive seating. Last but not least, the group will purchase five sleeper chairs, 2 for the emergency room and 3 for the OB/Surgery department. These
Shirl Peters presents Lisa Abonsi, Director of Bethesda Health Care Facility with a cheque for $26,000 that was raised by the Bethesda Auxiliary in part for the Bibsoft Blanket purchased for the Bethesda Personal Care Home.
chairs can be used in an ottoman position or converted into a pull out bed. They will cost $12,500 for all five. The money will be raised from the hosting of two annual used book sales per year. These biannual events have raised well over $500,000 for medical equipment necessary for patient comfort or safety, but not funded through Manitoba Health programs.
The Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary is also recruiting new members. They meet in the book sorting room at the Clearspring Centre on the first Tuesday of the Month except from April to September. Anyone interested in volunteering or joining the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary can contact Verna at 204-326-3028 for more information.
Steinbach Mayor Elected to FCM Steinbach’s Mayor Chris Goertzen and Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) President has been elected to the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). The announcement was made at the beginning of June after the FCM Annual Conference in Ottawa. During the conference, Goertzen was chosen by his peers to represent Canada’s 18 provincial-territorial associations. His role will involve chairing meetings of the group and ensuring its concerns and issues
become priorities for FCM. The FCM is an advocacy group representing over 2,000 Canadian municipalities. “FCM is the national voice of municipal government across Canada, and municipal associations have an important role to play in bringing the message of cooperation between levels of government to the FCM table,” said Goertzen. “I look forward to being part of that process.” “With more municipal issues being Federal-Provincial in nature, it is increasingly important that the municipal associations are strongly represented at the FCM executive level,” Goertzen said. Goertzen will be alongside City of Win-
nipeg Councillor Jenny Gerbasi who was named FCM President during the conference. Her leadership skills will be a valuable asset, said Goertzen. “It is very exciting to have Councillor Gerbasi at the helm of the FCM for the coming year, and I am really looking forward to working with her on the PTA,” he said. “Manitoba is very well-represented at the national level.” The Association of Manitoba Municipalities identifies and addresses the needs and concerns of its members in order to achieve strong and effective municipal government.
Stabbing in Niverville Sends One to Hospital On June 15 at approximately 12:40 am, St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP received a report that someone had been stabbed in the backyard of a residence in Niverville. When officers arrived on scene, a 52-year-old male was bleeding from an upper body stab wound. The victim was
then transported to a Winnipeg hospital in stable condition. Early investigation revealed that the victim heard noises in his garage and went to check. When he entered the garage, he encountered a male known to him and a struggle ensued. The suspect stabbed the victim once and fled the scene.
RCMP East District Police Dog Services and Headingley RCMP attended the scene to assist in locating the suspect. He was located quickly and taken into custody without incident. A 20-year-old Niverville man is charged with Break and Enter to Commit Indictable Offence of Assault with a Weapon and Bodily Harm and Breach of Undertaking.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Christ Does Not Fear Bad News Psalm 69:1-3 . . . 1) Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. 2) I sink in the miry depths, where there is no foothold. I have come into the deep waters; the floods engulf me. 3) I am worn out calling for help; my throat is parched. My eyes fail, looking for my God. (NIV) The Psalmist does not miss any words as he relates his troubled situation to us. Most of us have or will be tangled up in messy situations during our lives. We cannot help it and I do not think we can totally avoid them either. Some things seem to have a life of their own and they do not always go the way we want them too! However, neither do we want to spend the nights weeping until we are exhausted. Circumstances that produce that hopeless churning feeling in the very pit of our stomach are tough situations that can and will drag us into depression if we do not face those challenges in their early stages. We must seek help from a higher power. We must communicate with God in prayer. We really have no alternative. We must realize that we will find strength in His presence. However, this requires a certain measure of faith in a living and loving God. A thought just came to me. Remember the story of Jesus Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane? Here He was; the Son of God praying. Why would Christ have the need to pray? After all, is He not the author of prayer and the Creator of life itself? You know, the reason Christ prayed to His Father in heaven was that He was Holy and without sin, and He knew that very soon He would go to the Cross and there take your sin, my sin, and the sin of the whole world… to become a sinner on our behalf. That was an awful moment for Him. Remember, He was holy and had no sin. So, He cried to His Father in Heaven for help. And the Lord in heaven heard Him. His cry reached God’s ear and God provided the strength for Jesus to face His executioners who were bent on nailing Him to the Cross. That same God will reach down from heaven to take our hand when we are at our weakest, when our strength has drained away as water, and all our bones ache from fear of the unknown. It is as though our heart melts as wax when we are at our lowest point. But I must say it again, “Christ will not ignore our cry for help. He will not turn and walk away from us when we plead with Him for forgiveness. He is merciful, and when we confess our sins, and are sorry for what we have done, He will wash all our sins away.” Suppose you belong to an organization that works hard to provide for the needs of other people. You surround them with care and love, help plan for their future needs, and do everything humanly possible to equip them for a more secure life style. Suppose some of these people never felt compelled to reach out to their supporters, never felt a need to repay by being worthy of all this special care that they had received. Suppose they failed, not because they did not have the ability or the resources given to them, but because they would not care or try, they simply forgot the love that gave them so much. That breaks a volunteer’s heart. When God gives people all His grace and they take their own foolish way and frustrate that grace which might have restored their relationship with Him, then once again Christ is crucified and the heart of God is broken. The whole process of salvation takes its beginning from God. No other person can save us. We all must die our breathing stops, life ends. It is only God who keeps every promise. It was because God so loved the world that He sent His Son. It is not that God separated Himself from you and me, but rather, that we separated ourselves from Him. Christ does not fear bad news. That is why we need not be afraid to confess our sins, but calmly acknowledge our sins and ask for His pardon. Ask Him for strength to stop us from deliberately doing wrong. Ask Him to cleanse our hearts from hidden sins. Only then, will we have our sins forgiven and a bonus, we will be free of a guilty conscience. To God Be the Glory! Would you pray this prayer with me? “Lord Jesus, come into my heart. Forgive my sins. I want my life to change. My thoughts and my attitude need to change. I do not have peace in my heart, I really want that peace, joy, and happiness that I long for. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will bring honour to Your Name.” Amen.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
You Don’t have to Play Ball Have you ever felt discouraged, depressed and heavy hearted from carrying a heavy load? Sometimes we are carrying more then we need to. There’s a saying that may help us at such times, “If someone throws you the ball, you don’t have to catch it.” You don’t have to be a sports enthusiast to understand this saying. Everyone knows when you catch the ball; you’re responsible to do something with it. All eyes are on you, whether they are participants in the game, or observers in the stands. They want to know what you’re going to do with that ball. It is so easy to get dragged into other people’s problems. When someone else’s problems become yours, then there are two with the same problem. If we get involved in situations that really don’t concern us, it takes the joy out of life. I am learning from experience that when tempted to be drawn into business not belonging to me, I just say, “I ain’t catching that ball!” This brings so much more peace to my soul. It isn’t that you don’t care; it’s just recognizing this is not your load to bear and you are not responsible for it. In the Bible, in Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus Christ said, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” In most cases, when our burden gets too heavy for us to bear, it’s because we’ve caught too many “balls” that weren’t ours or we’re carrying the load the wrong way. Dear friend, bring your load to Jesus Christ today, He will help you sort out what to “catch” and what “not to catch”, and He will help you carry the rest.
July 2017
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July 2017
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Death Café – Relaunched This past tax season after meeting with many of my existing tax clients and many new people, I was asked many times, when are you having another Death Café? From now to November, we will have one every month; the third Thursday of each month, starting July 20 we will host a Death Café. To those of you that have not heard of it before, or have not yet attended, let me explain what a Death Café is. The short definition is, “At a Death Café people, often strangers, gather to eat cake, drink tea, and discuss death. The objective is to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives.” You can find out more at DeathCafe.com. I have hosted several Death Cafes over the past couple of years since my first one January 2015. As per the website’s mandate for the Death Café, mine are also offered on a not-for-profit basis (no cost to attend), in a respectful, accessible, and confidential space (the meeting room at my office); with no intention of leading people to any conclusion, product or course of action (not seeking any business, no obligation to use any of my services) and I won’t “try to sell you something. And I’ll provide the free coffee or tea and cake. What do people talk about? Whatever they want. During the past Death Cafes, we’ve discussed personal care homes, supportive housing and senior assisted living, home care, naming legal representatives for your Power of Attorney and your Will and your Health Care Directive (and introduced the Compassionate Care Contract). We’ve talked about naming beneficiaries, death of a pet and what happens to your pet after you die, cremation, natural cemeteries, probate fees, lawyer fees and dealing with banks and credit unions, having conversation with your children about your end of life wishes, funeral planning and more. The feedback I’ve received has been excellent. And some participants keep coming back because they want to hear more from others or talk more about what they learned. Some have asked for more formal Estate Planning workshops (I put on one last November and may do another one this fall). And since the end of life care each of us has witnessed can be different from what others have experienced, it’s important to share. The more we learn about what can happen to us, the more we can be prepared (and prepare our family). Personally, my objective is to encourage everyone to have the conversation with your family so both you and your family are more prepared for end of life decisions. I encourage everyone to have a Compassionate Care Contract and a Power of Attorney and a Will. If you are interested in attending, contact us. Space is limited to about 12 to 15 people and a smaller group is more comfortable for everyone to share their experiences and ask questions. If you cannot make the next one on July 20, you can sign up now for the future ones in August or September. Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and Certified Financial Planner; living, working, and volunteering in our community. Contact her at 204-422-6631 or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Co-op) or Info@SteAnneTaxService.ca.
Driver Rams into Vehicle and Building On June 21, the Steinbach RCMP received a report of damage to the Avalon Drywall building in Steinbach. Security footage from one of the nearby businesses shows a dark coloured vehicle driving onto the property on June 20 at 9:47 pm. The vehicle proceeded to drive straight into one of the parked company vehicles. This pushed the company vehicle into the Avalon building causing significant damage to the company’s vehicle and the building.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Hanover Ag Hosts Demo Derby On June 11, the Hanover Ag Society hosted their annual spring Demolition Derby with the addition of the first ever Show and Shine in Grunthal. “The June Demo Derby was a
success! Drivers gave their all out in the arena and the crowd did a fantastic job at creating the perfect atmosphere for such an exciting event!” said organizers. “Thanks to our amazing volunteers, dedicated
directors, and generous sponsors!” The Hanover Ag Society is already looking forward to their next event. The Hanover Ag Fair and Rodeo is taking place August 17 - 20.
Demolition Derby action provided a thrill for spectators.
Modern Voyageurs Paddle Red River
The Travelers of La Brigade de la Rivière Rouge arrived at Ste. Agathe where the locals welcomed them with music, BBQ and the shots of the soldiers of La Compagnie de La Vérendrye. Photos by Marianne Curtis
The vehicle, which was used as a ram, left the property at 9:50 pm. The Steinbach RCMP is looking for the public’s assistance in identifying the people responsible for this incident. If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-3264452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).
By Marianne Curtis For three days, a group of modernday voyageurs paddled the Red River similar to their ancestors. In celebration of the 150th anniversary of Canada, and the 40th anniversary of their own organization, Voyageurs of the La Brigade de la Rivière Rouge recreated a historic paddled along the Red River from St. Jean-Baptiste to The Forks.
The event was organized by Rivers West as a last event before the organization shuts its doors for good later this year. Rivers West has struggled to stay afloat after losing provincial funding a few years ago. “It’s just our way of honouring our ancestors and the history of the river and the fur trade,” said Anne-Marie Thibert, Executive Director of Rivers West. Thibert and the group left St. Jean-
Baptiste on June 22 then camped overnight in Ste. Agathe. There the community was invited to enjoy a free community BBQ, which included a Voyageur storyteller and traditional music. The next morning the group continued to their next overnight stop in St. Norbert where they were met at the end of the route by 150 canoes gathered at The Forks.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
RCMP Respond to Related Break Ins
A Sunday Afternoon It was a lovely Sunday afternoon, the sunshine w a s beckoning and my wife, children and I could not resist its lure. So, instead of sitting inside and relaxing, we grabbed a football, baseball and a couple of baseball gloves and outside we went. My eleven-year-old son and I slipped on our gloves and began tossing the baseball back and forth. I was surprised to find that he is quite a good catcher and has improved a lot since we’d played last summer. I’m guessing that through school he’s had more than a few opportunities to practice, especially since his favourite subjects are gym and recess. Meanwhile, my wife, daughter and youngest son were playing with the football. There was order and control in our gaming for all of four seconds before all chaos broke out! My littlest son, I’m not sure if it was supposed to be a pass or if he’d merely pulled it from my wife’s hands, but he grabbed the ball from my wife and took off running. He ran around the yard for a moment before running straight at me, tossed the ball over my head, ran past me, picked up the ball and raced off. This of course prompted me to chase after him. After I grabbed the ball from him, he then began to chase me but I quickly passed the ball to my daughter who took off running before tossing the ball to my oldest son. On and on this chasing would go, intermixed with a baseball being tossed around between all of us who were not involved in the football chase for that moment. I especially had to laugh at one of the times that my daughter was running with the football, her long hair streaming out behind her. I was running right behind her and instead of grabbing her; I would wave my hands through her hair in a mock effort to “nearly catch her.” I was not prepared when, instead of running faster, she decided to get rid of the football by throwing it directly over her shoulder in the direction of my face! Luckily, for me, it just missed my head but I must say that the move worked because I immediately changed from running after her to stopping to grab the ball. By the time we were done playing and had headed inside, I was tired, sweaty and so very, very happy. It is for moments like these that make this daddy’s life worth living. Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities! On June 13 at 4:14 am, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a break in at the Quarry Oaks Golf Club. The incident occurred between June 12 at 11 pm and June 13 at 4 am. Entry was gained by smashing the clubhouse’s front door glass
window. At this time, the loss is estimated at $10,000 worth of golf clubs. On June 13 at approximately 4:10 am, Steinbach RCMP also responded to a break in which occurred at the Marchand Store. Entry was gained via the front door. Once in-
side culprits stole cigarettes worth over $6,000 and caused damage estimated at $2,500. The two incidents appear to be related and police are investigating. If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked
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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).
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Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
How to Recognize and Treat Heat Illness
Canadian summers are hotter than ever before, with recent research showing a significant increase in the number of extreme heat events across the country. While we love spending time outdoors in the summer, a fun day under the sun can quickly turn dangerous if you don’t take a few precautions. Here are some tips that will help you learn the signs of heat illnesses and what to do about them, from Health Canada,
which works with health partners across the country to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the risks of extreme heat. Know the symptoms. Heat illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema (swelling of hands, feet and ankles), heat rash and muscle cramps. Symptoms of heat illness are dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst, and decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine. Know what to do. If you experience any of these symptoms during extreme heat, immediately move to a cool place, such as a shaded area, and drink liquids — water is best. Immediate action is needed to minimize the possibility of developing heat stroke. Don’t be afraid to get help. Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition and a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature and is either unconscious or confused or who has stopped sweating. While
waiting for help, cool the person right away by moving them to a cool place, applying cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing, and fanning them as much as possible. Understand your risk. While extreme heat can affect everyone, the risks are greatest for older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic illnesses or on certain medications, people who work in the heat, people who exercise in the heat, and homeless people and low-income earners who may have less access to cool places. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are at increased risk, and check in on neighbours and others who may be vulnerable Practice prevention. Some easy ways to stay cool are to drink plenty of liquids — especially water — before you feel thirsty, plan outdoor activities during cooler hours, and wear loose-fitting, lightcoloured clothing made of breathable fabric. Take a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place, like a tree-shaded area, community centre, shopping mall, or public library. News Canada
Pet Health and Safety Tips for Summer The Sherbrook Animal Hospital veterinary team is reminding people that closed vehicles can become much hotter than the outdoor air, so pets must never be left inside unattended. Many summer-related pet health tips will mention keeping animals out of closed vehicles during the day, but it turns out that there are many other hazards that pet owners need to watch out for as well. Hot pavement, for example, can burn the feet of both dogs and cats. This is also true of the beds of pickup trucks. Another important hazard is fireworks. Pet owners should always be sure that their animals are out of the way of the flashy explosives and that they do not come back to sniff the launchers before they cool. Pets that are startled by the sounds may run off and become lost. “One thing that shocks many
people is that not all dogs can swim. Though there is a ‘swimming instinct’ that many possess, some canines lack it. Rather than find out if a dog can swim the hard way, pet owners should outfit their companions with dog life jackets when taking them on boats. Even good swimmers will eventually get exhausted and drown if they can’t get back out of the water,” said Dr. Harvinder Hirkewal, veterinarian and owner of Sherbrook Animal Hospital. The hospital also recommended that pest control be stepped up during the summer months. Prevention is considered to be the best solution, and long-lasting medications are available to prevent infestation of fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other
parasites. Existing flea infestations should be taken care of with external pest-killing products. These are just a few of the many things pet owners should be on the lookout for this summer. To learn more, readers should contact a veterinarian.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Drowning Can Happen In Seconds Drowning is a leading cause of preventable injury and death in children under 10 in Canada. Sixty per cent of drownings occur in the four summer months from May to August, according to the Canadian Red Cross. Every year almost 60 children drown. This is equal to more than two classrooms full of children. Each year another 140 children must stay in the hospital because they nearly drowned. Neardrowning can result in long-term health effects. It can affect the way a child thinks, learns, and plays. Anyone can drown in just a few centimetres of water – the depth it takes to submerge the nose and mouth – but the risk is greatest for babies under one. The most frequent site for infant drowning is in the bathtub during a lapse in supervision. Health Canada recommends against the use of bath seats and bath rings for propping up babies who can’t yet sit on their own. Toddlers and preschool children are keen to explore their surroundings but they still lack the reasoning skills and coordination to keep safe around water. Top heavy toddlers can easily lose their footing in shallow water. Children under five most frequently drown in backyard pools and natural bodies of water. Only 10 per cent of children aged 1-4 who drowned in Canada from 2001 to 2010 were participating in aquatic activities at the time of the incident. Older children have a lower risk of drowning than children under five, but they can still quickly get into trouble when they overestimate their swimming abilities, underestimate water depth or current, succumb to peer pressure, or take unwise risks around water. In Canada and the US, children 5 to 14 most frequently drown in natural bodies of water. The Canadian Red Cross estimated that from 2001-2010, 76 per cent of children younger than 10 who
drowned were not with an adult at the time. For parents and caregivers of children, part of the problem could be perceptual. In our popular imagination, drowning involves a protracted commotion: thrashing, gasping and cries for help. But when a drowning occurs in real life, it often happens swiftly and silently. The difference between our ideas about drowning and the reality of it can give us a false sense of security. Parents and caregivers can help to prevent drownings by taking a few basic precautions: 1. Actively supervise children when they are in or around water. For children under five and weak swimmers, active supervision means staying close -- within arm’s reach. The Canadian Lifesaving Society recommends a supervision ratio of at least one adult for every baby, and one adult for every two small children. With older children, including good swimmers, it is still important to watch closely. Do not rely on a “buddy system” to keep kids safe, or make older children responsible for younger ones. 2. For extra protection, especially if you are watching more than one child, have children under five and weak swimmers wear life jackets when playing in and around water. While boating, always wear your own lifejacket and ensure children are outfitted with lifejackets that fit them properly. 3. Learn First Aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). It doesn’t take long to get trained in these lifesaving skills. Many people have been saved from drowning by bystanders who knew how to properly administer First Aid and CPR. 4. Put your kids in swimming lessons. Although
formal swimming lessons can’t “drown-proof” children, some studies show kids who receive swim training are less likely to drown. If your own swimming abilities could use some work, consider enrolling in adult learn-to-swim or swim improvement class. Some courses, like the Lifesaving Society’s Swim to Survive program, focus on water survival skills. 5. Fence it: if you have a backyard pool (including above-ground pool or temporary pool that will not be emptied after each use), or if you have a spa or hot tub, the best practice is to fence it off completely on all four sides. The fence should be at least four-feet high, with no gaps larger than four-inches. Access should be restricted by a latching, self-closing gate. It may be useful to keep in mind that chain link fences may be easier for children to scale than a fence made of vertical metal bars. Regardless of the fence style, four sided “isolation” fencing is more effective than three-sided “perimeter” fencing where the house is used as the fourth side. Information provided by the Canada Safety Council, Parachute Canada, and the Canadian Red Cross.
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Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Mitchell Woman Appointed to Board Sheri Grenier-Rooke of Mitchell was named among a group of twenty people recently to the Vulnerable Persons Hearing Panel. “I am passionate about the people I work with in Mental Health and this opportunity presented itself,” explained Grenier-Rooke. “I was recommended for the panel; I am uncertain of my abilities, although I do know that I care about vulnerable people and am going on faith that God will go before me and will equip me as needed.”
The Vulnerable Persons Living with a Mental Disability Act ensure Manitobans in need have a voice. The Act requires a three-person panel to hear all requests for a substitute decision maker to act on behalf of vulnerable Manitobans. The act requires at least 20 people be appointed to the Vulnerable Persons Hearing Panel roster and that membership be comprised of relatives of vulnerable people, lawyers and community members from all regions of Manitoba.
La Broquerie to Host Baseball Provincials On July 14-16, the community of La Broquerie will play house the 2017 Baseball Manitoba 15U AA Provincials. Baseball Manitoba 15U AA Provincials event organizer Mitch Tetrault says this is a first for the community. “This is a first for the Community of La Broquerie, located just 10 minutes East of Steinbach, and a first for the La Broquerie Minor Baseball Association,” said Tetrault. There will be 15 teams attending with representation from across the Province. “We have some incredible up and coming baseball stars amongst this group of 15 year old boys, and any exposure that our event can gain, would be incredible for the kids. This will be a weekend full of high level baseball,” Tetrault continued. There will be 15 teams attending with representation from across the Province. The winners of the Baseball Manitoba 15U AA Provincial Champions will advance to the Westerns in Kamloops BC, August 18-20.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Keeping History Alive in St. Adolphe The old convent in St Adolphe has recently been demolished but the memories of this glorious building and the occupants lives on in the historical book called The Old Convent Tells Its Story. The unique and personal stories associated with this building are fascinating. Among the historical events are accounts of priceless relics, ghostly characters and the circumstances surrounding a real miracle that took place in the 1920s. This book, written by the very citizens of St. Adolphe, can be purchased for $30 by calling Rhéa at 204-883-2055 or Alice at 204-8832566.
Wallet Found On May 30, a wallet was found and turned into the Steinbach RCMP. The multi-coloured wallet contained some cash, coins as well as some gift cards. If this is your wallet, please contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 with a suitable description of the wallet and contents.
Thieves Target Items in Vehicle On June 10 at some point during the night, a vehicle parked on Ellice Avenue in Steinbach was broken into and a number of items of value were stolen including watches, sunglasses and an MP3 Transmitter. If you have any information in regards to the above 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).
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
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Woodmore WI Holds Medicinal Plant Workshop On June 20, a group of 30 enthusiastic plant lovers revived the old domestic art of identifying, collecting and preparing medicinal plant remedies. One happy participant who attended the event along the Roseau River commented on Facebook, “We had a lovely evening celebrating the summer solstice and learning about medicinal and magical native Manitoba plants. It was good for the soul to be in nature and among wonderful company.” Janet and Tim Kroeker hosted the event, offering their riverside property, which is home to an abundance of cultivated and wild plants on the Roseau River. With instructor, Kathryn Funk a passionate plant person and business owner of Earth Alchemy Herbals the workshop included a walkabout identifying plants that can be used in medicinal preparations. She brought her experience and excitement introducing participants to the many safe medicinal plants that can be used. For newcomers in medicinal plant use, Funk suggested to start with some of her favourites like Yarrow, Johnny Jump-ups or Violets, Wild Rose petals, Plantain, Rosemary, Oregano, and Calendula that can be found in many gardens and the
wild. She went on to demonstrate the making of a yarrow tincture using alcohol. Mediums such as apple cider vinegar, olive oil and honey can also be used to draw out the active ingredient in the plants leaves, flowers, stems and roots. She explained that there are various methods used to prepare medicinal herbs such as teas, infusions, compresses, poultices, infused oils, ointments, salves and tinctures. Some of the Herbal First Aid appli-
cations included insect bites, stings, repellents or for splinters, slivers, strains, minor cuts, abrasions, bruises, burns, sunburns and poison ivy rash. The Woodmore WI Food Security committee is planning a food garden tour featuring some in the Roseau River area time tested and innovative new ways to successful food growing for July 28. For more information, contact Janet Kroeker 204.427.3524.
The workshop included a walkabout identifying plants useful in medicinal preparations.
Marching with Pride for Equality in Steinbach On July 15, the City of Steinbach’s Main Street is expected to become a sea of colour when the second annual Steinbach Pride March for Equality takes to the streets. This year’s parade participant will gather at the K.R. Barkman Park at 11 am, then take Main Street, turn right onto Reimer Ave. right onto
Elmdale and back to K.R. Barkman Park. Last year, thousands of people took to the streets in the City’s inaugural Pride Parade last July. Police estimated up to 5,000 people came to the community with about 13,500 for the event. However, there were some notable
faces missing because Provencher MP Ted Falk, Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen and Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen did not attend. MLA Goertzen released a statement stating he will not attend the 2017 Steinbach Pride March for Equality back in March.
Meth and Imitation Firearm Seized On the evening of June 23 Manitoba RCMP Traffic Services, along with members of the St. Pierre-Jolys and Oakbank RCMP detachments, set up a Checkstop on Hwy 1 at PR 207. Shortly after midnight on Saturday, June 24, RCMP discovered 211
grams of methamphetamine, an imitation firearm and drug paraphernalia in a vehicle driven by a male with a suspended driver’s licence. Wilfred Galvin, 35, has been charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Methamphetamine, Possession of a Weapon
for a Dangerous Purpose, Failure to Comply with a Probation Order and four counts of Failure to Comply with a Recognizance. Galvin has been remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear in Provincial Court on June 26 in Winnipeg.
Pat Porter Active Living Centre offers programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for mature adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come, pay us a visit, and consider participating in some of our programs and events. Rentals and Functions: We have 1 Hut available to rent immediately! Please call Lynda at 204-320-4600 or Kim at 204-320-4602 for further information. Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteer with us – we could use volunteers in many different areas. Whatever your skill set or age, we have a place for you. Whether you can volunteer for an hour a month, week or day or several hours we can accommodate you with tasks. We are in need of Volunteers for the following duties: Gardening/ Weeding, Reception and Special events. Call Lynda at 204-3204603 for more information. Special Events: Back to Nature Hiking Program: Until Thursday, August 31. Call Carrie at 204-320-4604. Potluck: Thursday, July 13 at 5 pm.: Note change of time. We will have a BBQ theme with games as entertainment. Please RSVP, as it will help us prepare the appropriate barbequed meat. Our receptionists will direct you on what to provide, salad, dessert or buns and a reminder it is $6 per person to attend. Call 204-3204600 to register. New Program: Buddy Up - If you live alone or spend part of your week alone this would be a program for you! You would “Buddy Up” with someone and then touch base with each other to ensure safety. Example, if you fall or become ill and your buddy cannot reach you, they would come by your place or call someone of your choice (pre-arranged) to go and check in on you. This is only one example of how this program would work. If you are interested, please contact Lynda 204-320-4603 for more details. Program is FREE. Regular Activities: Make sure to check out our quarterly Newsletter. All Programs have a fee of $2 to participate, unless otherwise stated. Walking Program: Every Morning from 8:30 – 9 am (Weekdays) in our Auditorium. Free to the public! Enjoy Free Coffee or Tea after. The New Connection: If you are New to the community or have had a significant change in your life (i.e. loss of a significant other, divorce, living arrangement or need a friend) we would like to welcome you. Please call Lynda for more information 204-320-4603. Fun Bingo: 3rd Thursday of each month, from10 - 11 am. No Cash prizes – fun prizes are offered. Movie Time: 4th Monday of each month from 1 - 4 pm. Floor Curling/Floor Shuffle: On Wednesdays from 1:30 – 4 pm. Pickleball: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 9 am – 11:30 am. Drop in Billiards: Monday - Friday from 9 am – 4 pm. Computer Classes: Will resume in September, on Wednesdays from 9 am - 1 pm. Call 204-320-4600 to book an appointment. Cards: Monday - Canasta; Wednesday - Cribbage. All card games are from 1 - 4 pm. Old Time Country Jam: Will resume in September on Wednesdays from 7 - 9 pm. Ho Model Railway Project: Wednesdays from 9 am - 4 pm. Choir + Fitness Class: Will resume in September. Free Programs: Crafty Corner: every Friday from 2 - 4 pm. Bring your craft (anything goes – knitting, scrapbooking, woodwork, etc), have some good conversation, coffee, and share in learning from each other. Cozy Corner Coffee Time: 10:30 am for FREE coffee and tea. Meet new people and staff in a friendly and inviting atmosphere. Walking Program: Every Morning from 8:30 - 9 am (Weekdays) in our Auditorium. Free to the public! Enjoy Free Coffee or Tea after!!! Other Programs/Services Provided: Noon Meals: Available Monday through Friday Cost $6. Come join us for lunch. Call Deb at 204-320-4605 the day before or by 9 am that day to reserve your meal. Tai Chi: Monday evening at 7 pm and Wednesday mornings at 10 am. Foot Care Clinic: Foot care is available the first Tuesday and Wednesday of every month and the third Tuesday and Thursday of every month. Call Reception at 204-320-4600 to book your appointment. Beltone Hearing Clinic: Third Friday of the month. Call 1-800661-2653 to book your appointment. For more information on programs, events, activities or volunteer opportunities, drop by the Centre Monday to Friday from 8:30 am 4 pm or call reception at 204-320-4600 or Lynda at 204-320-4603. Visit our website at patporteralc.ca.
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Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!
Dawson Trail Dispatch