Dawson Trail Dispatch March 2023

Southeast Athletes Well Represented at Canada Winter Games in P.E.I.

Manitoba Targets Violent Crime by Focusing on Criminals

According to Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen, the Provincial Government hopes to tackle violent crime without targeting legal gun owners.

The Manitoba government has announced it is dedicating new resources and funding to ensure Manitoba Prosecution Service (MPS) has increased capacity to address violent crime related to serious, illegal firearms offences and organized crime.

The minister noted more than $1.4 million is being allocated to MPS to fund 10 new positions, which will increase capacity to address firearms trafficking, manufacturing and related violent crime in Manitoba.

With these positions, MPS will increase the number of prosecutors in its firearms working group and criminal organization unit to further develop auditing processes for existing firearms cases and deepen expertise in handling prosecutions.

“This funding will keep the Manitoba government’s focus firmly on issues related to the use of illegal firearms, preventing and combating gang violence, and addressing the issue of illegal or smuggled guns in our province,” said Goertzen.

coaches, an apprentice coach and one technical supervisor.

Rowan Firth from Ste. Genevieve is representing Manitoba in the Biathlon. Khloé Lessard-Kulchyski from Richer has trained in fencing and will compete in the saber competition. Declyn Friesen from Grunthal is competing in gymnastics. Avery Pickering from St. Adolphe packed up his equipment and stick to compete with the Manitoba hockey team. Kiandra Bonnell from New Bothwell will be competing for a medal in Judo. From Lorette, Chloe Vincent, and Bree Morrisette; from St. Pierre-Jolys, Kalee Davies and Taylor Rempel who both hail from La Broquerie West will join Jordyn Watson from Grande Pointe and Lauren Bezditny from Mitchell will compete in the sport of Ringette.

“Our government has been consistent in its messaging that the federal government’s approach to gun crimes unnecessarily targets lawful gun owners while having little impact on criminals. With this support, Manitoba Prosecution Service will have additional resources and capacity to prosecute those committing serious offences with illegal firearms.”

“Our government is committed to improving public safety by ensuring the justice system has the resources needed to provide a timely and

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The Canada Winter Games, hosted in PEI this year, kicked off on February 18 with the opening ceremonies and will run until March 5.

Ringette team in action.

Submitted photos

St. Malo Arena Fires Up New Ice Plant

By Angelique Forest

The community of St. Malo got more than they bargained for at a recent hockey game that saw the St. Malo Warriors face off against the visiting North Winnipeg Satellites in the community arena.

Reeve Darrel Curé accompanied by MLA Dennis Smook and a dozen other guests took to the ice to cut a

ribbon and drop the puck to celebrate the completion of installing a new ice plant.

The Municipality of De Salaberry worked with the arena board members to raise the $600,000 costs for the replacement of the ice plant and dehumidifiers in the St. Malo Arena with the Province, businesses, service groups and residents all contributing.

According to the municipality, the local donations from service groups, businesses and residents were instrumental to the success of the Manitoba Building Sustainable Communities application.

The upgraded arena gives the community access to a more efficient and modern recreational

facility for various activities.

St. Malo is the hometown of a number of professional hockey players and this is seen as the perfect step to encourage others to follow in their foot steps and continue the longtime Canadian tradition.

Additionally, the improvements in the facility will expand the ice sea-

son and provide a better experience for all.

It was noted that the ice plant replacement is the first phase of many to modernize the arena and to advance climate priorities by improving energy efficiency, reduce GHG emissions and enhance the climate resilience of the building.

Ritchot Mayor Has a Battle on the Horizon

By Angelique Forest sport as a way to stay fit.

Fighting for what you believe in is nothing new when involved in politics, although most occasions the term is meant to be a figure of speech. One municipal leader is actually taking it literally and is donning gloves and stepping into the boxing ring to raise funds.

This spring, Chris Ewen, Mayor for Ritchot, will be entering the boxing ring to fight for mental health.

Ewen has signed up to compete in Fight for Charity on April 29 at the Winnipeg Convention Centre in support of the Canadian Mental Health Association. Ewen is one of about 20 boxers that will hit the ring that night.

“This is an annual event that gets everyday people into the boxing ring to fight at an amateur level,” explained Ewen. “Each year a new charity is chosen. This year we are fighting for Canadian Mental Health Association (Manitoba).

Ewen is not totally naïve about what he is committing to as the sport of boxing is something he’s familiar with. As an amateur, Ewen says he boxed until about the age of 24, training daily.

“I was a boxer from 15-26 years old. Originally fighting at Dynamo Boxing and then moving to Brandon Boxing Club,” he said.

Ewen admits he was far from a professional, but enjoyed the

“This has been an event I’ve wanted to be a part of pre-COVID,” said Ewen. “I believe it’s a great way to raise funds, but also get into shape.”

While the mayor is only 35, he does admit this will require training to prepare for the fundraiser, which he says began well over a month ago.

This year’s chosen charity, the Canadian Mental Health Association, is a cause that Ewen completely supports as he understands how it can impact all people, especially during times of struggle and hardship.

“Mental health affects everyone. I’ve seen colleagues affected by mental health, and have lost friends battling with it as well,” he explained. “This is a charity I’m backing 110%.”

With the fundraising is still in the early stages, Ewen has already sold a handful of tables for the event.

Individual tickets go for

$242.50, while tables of 10 run at $1,955. On top of that, he is also seeking donations. Additionally, he is selling sponsorship package opportunities for the event. He is seeking to raise $20,000. While his main goal is to raise funds he is not shy to admit he would also like to win.

Ewen is going all out to raise funds, including using his mayoral connections.

For more information on the event, visit fightforcharity.ca. More information on donating to Ewen’s efforts visit gogetfunding.com/fightfor-charity-2023-chris-ewen.

Reeve Darrel Curé accompanied by MLA Dennis Smook and a dozen other guests took to the ice to cut a ribbon and drop the puck to celebrate the completion of installing a new ice plant. Submitted photo

Chris Ewen, Mayor of Ritchot. Submitted photo

Ste. Anne Arena Receives Needed Capital Support from Rural Municipality

By Dan Guetre

Left with a dilemma of an ice plant on its final legs and an immense capital cost to solving the issue before next year’s hockey and ice skating season, the Town of Ste. Anne reached out to the surrounding rural municipality hoping for a financial commitment towards the bill.

According to the Town of Ste. Anne and their arena budget, $350,000 is needed to replace the failing equipment as the Town’s public works department have struggled to squeeze one more year of operation.

Following a joint meeting between the two councils, the RM of Ste. Anne added the topic to their next agenda and debated whether they should assist the Town with the capital cost by increasing their annual financial commitment.

“The RM acknowledges that while the arena is located in the Town, that it is frequently used by those living in the RM and serves the greater community regardless of local authority boundaries,” said RM of Ste. Anne Reeve Richard Pelletier.

During the joint council meeting, the Town of Ste. Anne had requested from the RM of Ste. Anne a onetime capital commitment of $75,000 to go towards the ice plant replacement and an increase in its annual commitment for recreation from approximately $40,000 to $80,000.

During the RM of Ste. Anne council meeting, councillors set out their course of action.

“Council has approved a one-time grant of $75,000 towards capital expenditures for the arena and is in discussion about further funding and commitments moving forward,” explained Pelletier. “As a part of longterm recreation growth and support, the RM is creating a Recreation and Culture Reserve Fund to be better situation in future to address these types of regional needs, in addition to our own increasing recreational infrastructure needs.”

The lively discussion made it clear that while a decision on the second part of the request could be postponed to include additional discussion, the one-time capital grant of $75,000 was more urgent as the Town was applying for other grants

Manitoba Targets Violent Crime by Focusing on Criminals

consistent response to violent crime,” said Goertzen. “This increased support for prosecutions is about going after illegal guns and targeting organized crime that is causing fear in communities and victimizing Manitobans.

Together with calls for federal changes to the Criminal Code on bail and other measures, meaningful steps can be taken to stop those committing violent crime in our province.”

Violent weapons-related crime is on the rise across Canada and

and the RM commitment could assist them in the process.

“The grant committed to date will be coming from the Community Development Initiatives Reserve Fund [also referred to as Bi-pole Reserve Fund],” explained Pelletier.

According to Town Mayor St. Vincent, a grant through the Provincial Building Sustainable Communities Fund has also been applied for.

“… we are awaiting to find out if we qualified or not,” said St. Vincent.

In addition to the recent commitment the RM and Town created vehicle to address future recreational issues.

“Council sees recreation as important both in the RM and the Town,” said Pelletier. “In discussion with the Town about longterm planning, there was an agreement to a committee being formed, with representatives both from the Town and the RM to develop a plan for the continued use of the space.”

Council also recognizes that further long-term planning needs to be done, not only for the area, but for recreation options otherwise in the RM,” added Pelletier. “Recreation serves more benefits than simply recreation. Council recognizes that with recreation comes benefits to physical and mental health, more community and social interactions, and makes communities more sustainable by creating more attractive places for individuals to put down new roots.”

The RM of Ste. Anne is working towards setting up a recreation reserve fund to address future needs within the municipality.

“Any money spent by the Municipality through this reserve fund must be identified in our Financial Plan, which the public are welcome to question during our public hearing to be held later this spring,” explained Pelletier.

As for future commitments towards the Town of Ste. Anne recreation, Pelletier says this matter is still in the preliminary stages of discussion.

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Manitoba has been particularly impacted, the minister noted, adding that RCMP in rural Manitoban communities have said violent crimes are increasingly driven by street gangs and serious offenders who use a variety of weapons including firearms.

“Council has approved a one-time grant of $75,000 towards capital expenditures for the arena and is in discussion about further funding and commitments moving forward,” explained RM of Ste. Anne Reeve Richard Pelletier. File photo

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Emergencies Act Was Avoidable

Last week, Justice Paul Rouleau presented the report of the Public Inquiry into the 2022 Public Order Emergency.

The Commission found that the Government’s use of the Emergency Act was “justified”. However, Justice Rouleau was also honest enough to express that he did so with reluctance.

“I do not come to this conclusion easily, as I do not consider the factual basis for it to be overwhelming. Reasonable and informed people could reach a different conclusion than the one I have arrived at.”

I appreciate that caveat, as I am one of those people.

While I disagree with his overall finding, I do agree with Justice Rouleau’s assessment that:

“The majority of those who participated in the protests were animated by a genuine desire to engage in peaceful demonstrations so that their voices would be heard by leaders in government. They wished to exercise their fundamental right to express their political views. They had a right to do so. However, like any large group, there were a diversity of views and intentions amongst the participants in the Freedom Convoy. Amongst the many who intended to protest peacefully were

others who had more sinister goals, or who were willing to engage in dangerous conduct to achieve their desired ends.”

I and others in my party (including our Leader Pierre Poilievre) were very clear at the time: We supported the stated goal of the convoy, to end federal vaccine mandates. We were equally clear that we condemned any illegal activity such as blockading of critical infrastructure and that individuals who defied law enforcement would need to accept the consequences for their actions.

That said, while I still do not believe use of the Act was justified, rather than re-litigate what took place last February, I think it more important to look at why it happened.

It remains my strong belief, the unfortunate events of last February were avoidable, and the blame falls squarely at the feet of the Prime Minister.

While many COVID-related grievances are the result of provincial governments, at the federal level, Justin Trudeau and his team clearly took advantage of the crisis to divide Canadians for their own political purposes.

As Liberal MP and former Quebec Caucus chair Joël Lightbound put it

in his courageous speech critiquing his own government last February, “a decision was made to wedge, to divide, and to stigmatize.”

Justice Rouleau was clear on this point: “It is regrettable that such a situation arose here, because in my view, it could have been avoided.”

The Commission found that Justin Trudeau’s belittling of Canadians that disagreed with his views, “served to energize the protesters, hardening their resolve and further embittering them toward government authorities.”

Instead of taking a nuanced approach, seeking to ease tensions, or trying to resolve the hurt he and others in power had caused, Justin Trudeau went out of his way to make it worse by name-calling and demonizing fellow Canadians, trying to turn neighbours, co-workers, churches, family, and friends against each other over the issue of vaccination.

This is typical of Trudeau’s strategy of divide and distract.

As Conservative Leader, Pierre Poilievre stated: “He thinks if you’re afraid of your neighbour you’ll forget you can’t pay your rent. If you’re afraid of a trucker, you’ll forget that you’re hungry, and you’ll take your eye off the guy

who caused the problem in the first place…This was an emergency that Justin Trudeau created, by attacking his own population.”

I do not believe there ever would have been a convoy protest under a Poilievre government because Conservatives would have respected the personal health choices of Canadians. We were the only party in Parliament to support the freedom of Canadians to make those choices for themselves. We would have sought to unite Canadians instead of seeking to divide them.

While COVID-19 and the events of last February are thankfully behind us, after more than seven years of Justin Trudeau the hurt, division, and struggles continue.

A Conservative government will strive to turn that hurt into hope and repair the bonds that have been broken between our fellow Canadians. To move Canadians out of the long dark winter into a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow.

More Child-Care Spots and Funding Deal for Lorette’s Arena

There’s been lots of exciting news in Dawson Trail recently, and I’m happy to share it with you as your MLA. The aging Lorette Arena has been something many constituents in Lorette have been voicing as a concern for many years. After 17 years, the NDP never came up with a plan or any money to get the project done. However, it has been one of many issues I’ve advocated for since I was elected in 2016.

I’m happy to report that our government has granted the RM of Taché with $3.6M in funding, in partnership with additional funding commitments from the federal government and the RM. Now that the RM of Taché has been granted the money, it is their responsibility to get the project completed, along with raising the additional funds required as per the agreement. I would like to thank Mayor Poirier and former mayor Justin Bohémier, along

with the many councillors and great folks at the RM office, for their great work in putting this plan together.

I’m also very excited to report that Taché will receive an additional 74 child care spots as part of our government’s Ready-to-move child care program. This is great news for our community. Our PC team continues to push for more affordable, accessible child care, where we have promised we will have an average of $10 per day child care this year – and we will deliver on it.

I’d also like to take some time to address an opinion piece that was published in last month’s issue of this paper that was spewing negativity about the great news of the new Lorette arena, and took some personal shots at my service as your MLA.

In contrast to what was said, I regularly meet with constituents, whether it is at my constituency office, at different community events, my Coffee with Bob events, or just when I’m out and about in the riding. I always make time to talk with

and listen to those in our community, and I truly value the time I spend interacting with constituents. I got into politics because I care about the people in our community – which is why I’ve advocated successfully for Rail Safety Awareness Week, the Legacy Children’s Centre in Landmark, and the Dawson Trail Heritage Tour Initiative to name a few. It’s unfortunate that there are those who are trying to make people think otherwise by taking cheap shots. We need to hold ourselves to a higher standard than that.

As always, I would love to hear from you. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out and contact my constituency office at ca.lagasse@outlook.com or 204-807-4663.

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

New Child Care Spaces for Kleefeld

I was excited to be part of an announcement that will bring an additional 74 childcare spaces to La Verendrye. This is fantastic news for the community of Kleefeld. Kleefeld is part of phase two in the Ready to Move Child Care Project that will see 1,004 new child care spaces in rural and northern Manitoba communities. Ready-to-Move is an approach to construct numerous childcare spaces through innovative technology which allows for the development of high-quality facilities off-site before moving them to a final site on a permanent foundation.

Funding for the project is provided through our Early Learning and Child Care Agreement and supports Manitoba’s commitment to create 23,000 new childcare spaces by 2026. I know that the Ready-ToMove project will have a positive impact across our province and these investments will support parents’ ability to further their own education, participate in the workforce, or receive training while accessing safe and affordable childcare. As well, our PC Team has committed to an average of $10/day child care

for 2023, and I can assure you we are delivering on that commitment.

Violent weapons-related crime is on the rise across Canada and Manitoba has been particularly impacted. RCMP in rural Manitoba communities has said violent crimes are increasingly driven by street gangs and serious offenders who use a variety of weapons including firearms.

Our government is taking action to improve public safety. We are providing new resources and funding to ensure the justice system has increased capacity to deal with violent crime related to serious, illegal firearms offences and organized crime.

More than $1.4 million is being allocated to Manitoba Prosecution Service to fund 10 new positions, which will increase capacity to address firearms trafficking, manufacturing and related violent crime in Manitoba, including preventing and combating gang violence, and addressing the issue of illegal or smuggled guns. Increased support for the prosecution service is about going after illegal guns and target-

Goertzen Calls for Federal-ProvincialTerritorial Summit on Bail Reform

Dear Editor,

ing organized crime.

Our government has been consistent in its messaging that the federal Liberal government’s approach to firearms unnecessarily targets lawful gun owners while having little impact on criminals. We were happy to see them retract those amendments.

Our PC Team is taking meaningful steps to stop those who are committing violent crime in our province while calling for federal changes to the Criminal Code on bail and other measures. All Manitobans deserve to feel safe in our homes, on our streets and in our communities.

I look forward to hearing from you with your questions or concerns. I can be reached at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca.

Educational Funding Increases for Manitoba

Over the past month there has been some exciting news coming out of my corner of the Legislature in Education and Early Childhood Learning. On February 2nd we announced $206 million in funding for the 2023-24 school year. In continuing to strengthen our province’s education system, we announced the increasing of funding for kindergarten to grade 12 schools by $100 million for the 2023-24 school year. This increase represents a 6.1% in operating dollars for all 37 school divisions in Manitoba! This year’s increase in funding will help school divisions engage students and invest in the programs and services that will best meet the individual needs within our local communities. It includes an additional $20 million for school divisions to help ease cost pressures, an additional $5million in special needs funding and an additional $5 million increase for independent schools.

On top of these increases, our government is investing another $106 million to make the one-time funding to school divisions last year permanent. This permanent funding will help school divisions strengthen student learning and supports, provide additional support to students

with special learning needs and ensure that funding is available moving forward.

I was also pleased to announce phase two of the ready-to-move (RTM) child-care project to create 1,670 new childcare spaces in rural Manitoba once the project is completed. Phase one of this project began in November 2022. Initially 8 RTM facilities were to be funded in phase 2 but due to significant interest it was expanded to 14. Here in the Lac du Bonnet constituency, a big congratulations to Whitemouth and Tyndall who are each receiving 74 spaces.

With February being I Love to Read month in Manitoba, I have enjoyed spending time in some of the schools within our region reading to students. Thank you to the teachers and their students for welcoming me into their classrooms. Being back in the classrooms is always a humble reminder of the reason why our government believes that investing in our students means investing in our future. Our goal was to deliver a $1.6 billion four-year funding guarantee and we have succeeded. Promises made, promises kept!

There is no shortage of things to do in the Lac du Bonnet constituen-

cy during February and March. I would like to highlight the Whiteshell Community Club Beaver Days, the MMF Powerview Local 77 1st Annual Louis Riel Family Fun Day at Muck Hill, the Lac du Bonnet Fishing Derby and the Canadian Power Toboggan Championships in Beausejour to name a few. I encourage everyone to support our communities by supporting their events.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at wayne@wayneewasko.com, or call me at 204268-3282. Also, you can follow me on Twitter @wayneewaskomla and friend me on Facebook.

Wayne Ewasko is the MLA for Lac du Bonnet and the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning.

The governments of Manitoba and Saskatchewan are urging the Government of Canada to convene a bail reform summit to address the increasing level of violence faced by Canadians.

Last October, at a meeting of federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for justice and public safety, there was broad support from across Canada for an officials-level review of the bail regime. Federal Justice Minister David Lametti pledged his support for further talks at a federal, provincial and territorial summit to address the issue, yet no meeting has been scheduled. Today, Saskatchewan Justice Minister Bronwyn Eyre and I wrote to the federal justice minister urging him to convene that meeting.

All of Canada’s premiers have also recently jointly endorsed a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau requesting the Criminal Code, which is solely the jurisdiction of the federal government, be amended to incorporate a reverse onus for the possession of a loaded or restricted firearm in Section 95, and that a broader review of bail for firearms offences be conducted to determine if those offences should also be subject to reverse onus on bail.

The position of the Manitoba and Saskatchewan governments goes further and urges the federal government to amend the Criminal Code so that offenders who commit violent offences with knives and modified bear spray are subject to additional and more stringent conditions on application for bail. I previously urged the federal justice minister to consider those amendments in letters to his office in August and September 2022.

Without meaningful reform to the bail regime, Manitobans and Canadians will continue to be the victims of violent crimes by offenders who should be behind bars, not out on the street re-victimizing innocent people. Minister Eyre and I are calling on the federal justice minister to immediately convene a federal-provincial-territorial summit on bail reform to initiate substantive and real changes to the Criminal Code to better protect all Canadians.

Kelvin Goertzen Manitoba Justice Minister MLA Steinbach

Standing Up for Law-Abiding Gun Owners

By Wab Kinew

Responsible, law-abiding firearm use is part of our way of life in Manitoba. As a law-abiding gun owner myself, I know how important it is to be able to teach my kids how to hunt safely. We love spending time in the bush together. And there are many Manitobans just like us who enjoy hunting and teaching the next generation how to live off the land.

That’s why the Manitoba NDP stood up for law-abiding gun owners when the federal Liberal government proposed an amendment to its Bill C-21, the federal firearms bill.

Manitobans understand the importance of responsible, commonsense gun laws. But we also need to support the safe use of firearms for hunters, farmers, and Indigenous communities. The federal government’s amendment to Bill C-21 was an overreach that caused a lot of concern with law-abiding gun owners. The amendment would have banned many models of firearms that are used for hunting and on farms to protect livestock. And those who represent law enforcement said it would not have helped make our communities safer. The lack of clarity on which guns fell under the ban was also a cause of concern to law-abiding gun owners who want to make sure their guns are legal while still continuing the lifestyle of hunting and living off the land that is important to us.

One of the great pleasures of this job is getting to meet Manitobans from all walks of life. And on this topic it’s clear we’ve got to speak up for our way of life. We do so for the farmers we’ve met who use firearms responsibly to protect their livestock. We do so for the middle class working family who sees the price of protein and goes out in hunting season to fill the freezers. And we do so for those who like target shooting safely. It is because of you that we stood up to the federal government and voiced our opposition to this amendment. And it worked: thanks to the voices of countless law-abiding gun owners across the country, the amendment was withdrawn in early February.

The Manitoba NDP will continue to stand up for the voices of Manitobans, whether it is to the provincial PC government or the federal Liberal government in Ottawa. And we will always defend the hunting, farming, and living off the land that so many Manitobans rely on and enjoy.

We want to hear from you! You can reach out to my office at (204) 945-3284 or email me at OLO@mbleg.ca.

Students Encouraged to Sit on Provincial Student Advisory Council

The Manitoba government is now accepting applications for the 2023-24 Student Advisory Council, which was launched in March 2021 in response to recommendations from the Manitoba Commission on Kindergarten to Grade 12 Education and directly aligns with Manitoba’s K to 12 Education Action Plan.

“Students are significant partners in the education system and their voices must play a role in shaping it,” said Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Wayne Ewasko. “I am pleased that in this current year, council members have provided valuable feedback and have contributed a wide variety of opinions, ideas and lived experiences to K to 12 Education Action Plan priorities. The Manitoba government invites all Manitoba students between the ages of 14 and 18 to apply to next year’s council.”

The Student Advisory Council reports directly to the minister of education and early childhood learning. The role of the council is to provide insights and advice on issues and topics that are current and emerging for kindergarten to Grade 12 students.

The minister noted participating in the council helps students develop leadership skills while experiencing what it is like to sit on a council and support the continuous improvement of kindergarten to Grade 12 education.

Council members for 2023-24 will serve a 12-month term starting in August 2023 and ending in August 2024. Current council members who continue to meet the eligibility criteria will be considered for a second term. The deadline for applications is March 31.

For more information on the Student Advisory Council and how students can apply, visit edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/action_plan/studentadvisorycouncil.

Ste. Agathe Arena Takes a Big Step Towards a New Ice Plant as Ritchot Targets Recreation Infrastucture

By Dan Guetre if that is approved the project scope will increase to include additional renovations to the arena.

It’s almost like arena ice plants are all communicating with each other and threatening to go on strike as St. Malo just spent hundreds of thousands towards refreshing their equipment, Ste. Anne had to band aid their ice plant this season and are creating a funding strategy to perform an overhaul or replace the system.

Ste. Agathe Arena, with the same ice plant for over 30 years is now faced with a single option, replacement.

To kick off the capital required for the project, the Municipality of Ritchot has committed $150,000.

“We are thrilled to be able to support these important community facilities,” said Chris Ewen, Mayor of Ritchot. “These spaces and places are vital to the well-being of our residents and contribute to the strong sense of community that we have in Ritchot. We are committed to supporting these organizations and ensuring that they have the resources they need to continue to serve our community.”

With this commitment from the municipality, the arena board can move forward to raise the additional funds needed.

“With the support of the Municipality of Ritchot, the Ste. Agathe Arena Board is embarking on this exciting project for the Arena,” said Josh Pawluk, President Ste. Agathe Arena. “The ice plant is original to the facility, and it has reached the end of its lifespan resulting in the need for replacement.”

The arena board is not intimidated by the amount of dollars it has to raise.

“We anticipate this project will cost approximately $750,000 and the Municipality’s support will go a long way in supporting our fundraising goals,” added Pawluk. “This project will ensure the Arena can operate reliably for the community and region as it has for the past 45 years and for many more years to come.”

Shane Ray is the Recreation Director for the Municipality of Ritchot and said an application has been made to a federal grant program and

In total, the Municipality of Ritchot has announced it is funding $357,000 in 10 community recreation facilities as part of its Lifecycle and new Capital Grant Programs. This funding will support ongoing improvements and operations in the facilities and enhance existing spaces and places in the municipality that support community well-being and spirit.

The Lifecycle Grant Program is designed to provide funding to local organizations and groups to support the ongoing maintenance and operation of community facilities. The program is intended to help these organizations continue to provide important services and programming to residents of the municipality.

The following community recreation facilities will receive a combined $207,000 in Lifecycle funding in 2023: $35,000 for a new tractor at Optimist Park, Ile des Chenes; $15,000 for main hall lighting retrofit at the TC Energy Centre, Ile des Chenes; $20,000 towards a new Outdoor Rink at the Club IDC Club Inc. (Ile des Chenes/Grande Pointe Arena), Ile des Chenes; $17,000 for safety mesh for the outdoor rink at Grande Pointe Park, Grande Pointe; $17,000 for two ductless air conditioner units at the Howden Community Centre, Howden; $40,000 to paint the ice shed in the Centre Sportif St. Adolphe Sports Centre Inc. (St. Adolphe Curling Club), St Adolphe; $15,000 for a sound system upgrade at the St. Adolphe

Community Centre, St. Adolphe; $25,000 for a ramp replacement and automatic door openers at the Ste. Agathe Community Centre, Ste. Agathe; and $20,000 for washroom and showers at Cheyenne Park, Ste. Agathe.

The Municipality of Ritchot explained that the decisions made from the communities themselves.

“We are guided by our Master Plan, what our facilities have identified as needs and by what the community identifies as needs,” explained Ray.

As part of the Municipality’s asset management program, each year community facilities, with the assistance of the Director of Facilities and Special Projects, identify components within their facilities that are nearing the end of their lifecycle or need to be replaced.

These projects are submitted to the Recreation Advisory Committee which reviews the projects and makes recommendations to Council to approve funding.

The Municipality created the new capital grant program to support investments in new facility development or capital improvements to existing facilities and the first recipient under the program is the Ste. Agathe Arena.

To take the fundraising to the next level, the Ste. Agathe Arena Board has proposed a new campaign. While in the draft stage, the Raise the Stick fundraising campaign offers opportunities for individuals, families and businesses to contribute to the project. Once approved, the campaign will remain active until they reach their goal of raising $750,000.

Ste. Agathe Arena, with the same ice plant for over 30 years is now faced with a single option, replacement.

Draft visual rendering of a new donor wall to be located in the Ste. Agathe Arena.

Submitted photos

Wildlife Haven Raises Funds Through Unique Animal Art Auction

By Angelique Forest

The annual Wildlife Haven Art Auction is now in the rearview mirror for the centre and they surpassed their goal of raising $20,000. A total of $28,760 came in through the bids.

Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre, with its campus and medical facility, is located near Ile des

Chenes growing over the decades since its inception on 1984.

The goal of Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre is to rehabilitate injured, sick and orphaned wildlife and so far, they have had over 50,000 patients come through their doors.

Kelly O’Donnell is the fundraising coordinator for Wildlife Ha-

St. Malo Man Takes Top Spot in Minnesota Mushing Event

By Dan Guetre

A St. Malo man is celebrating as he and his team of dogs recently won the Lake Minnetonka Klondike Dog Derby held in Excelsior, Minnesota.

The sport of mushing has taken place in the community on and off since 1930.

David Hochman and his team of dogs took a first place finish in the competition, adding this win to two previous titles. Organizers are touting Hochman’s win as exceptional, dubbing it the Klondike Hat Trick.

In a promotional video produced for the event, Hochman described

his passion for the sport and his personal take on the activity.

“[It’s] quite an exhilarating experience,” said Hochman. “The dogs bark to take off because they are so excited to go.”

“Once they leave it is complete silence,” he added. “All you can hear is the dogs panting, their feet hitting the snow and your runners hitting the snow as well.”

The derby is a 40-mile sled dog race around Lake Minnetonka starting and finishing in Excelsior, Minnesota. Each musher enters with an 8-dog team.

ven and is responsible for the Art fundraiser to raise money for the spring.

O’Donnel was able to secure over 150 pieces of art for the auction with many of the pieces submitted from Manitoba artists.

“We also [had] art created by Wildlife Haven’s raptor and reptile ambassadors included in the auc-

tion,” she added. These included unique pieces created by an Eastern Box Turtle named Elliot and a Turkey Vulture named Léo. Also auctioned off was the opportunity to visit the centre and have a personal visit with their animal ambassadors and create some art.

O’Donnel explained that all proceeds of this auction go toward

Submitted photos

Wildlife Haven’s Animal Hospital, which will be in need of muchneeded items during the springtime baby boom. Hundreds of sick, injured or abandoned wildlife makes its way to their doors and they are preparing themselves to be able to handle this coming baby season, as it’s the busiest time of the year.

Photo by Kate Evans

David Hochman and his team of dogs placed first.

(left) Elliot, an Eastern Box Turtle, preparing his creation in the days leading up to the auction. (centre) Léo the Turkey Vulture receives a little encouragement as he creates his masterpiece. (right) Two of the staff at Wildlife Haven proudly displays Léo’s creation. His artwork sold in auction for over $300.

Valley Fiber Finalizes Asset Purchase of Simply Connected and Trans Canada Internet

After over a decade of providing fixed wireless internet to over half a dozen communities, Simply Connected owner Dan Guetre is pleased with the way it has now worked out, negotiating a deal with Valley Fiber to take over the customer base and infrastructure.

Valley Fiber is an internet service provider in rural Manitoba and is rolling out home and business fibre connections. They are also improving the existing fixed wireless connections in the communities in front of their fibre rollout.

“This acquisition further expands our fixed wireless network footprint in Manitoba and creates operational opportunities for Valley Fiber’s fibre to the home network as well,” said Conley Kehler, Senior VP of Valley Fiber. “Dan Guetre has run Simply Connected with integrity and transparency, delivering a much-needed resource to Richer, La Coulee, Giroux, Ste. Genevieve, Paradise Village, Kokomo Road, Ross and surrounding rural areas.”

Kehler confirmed that the end goal is to improve services.

“This inclusion is important for area residents to understand this is about more than Simply Connected customers, it is a tremendous improvement, allowing nearly unlimited access to whatever the future will bring to the area,” he explained. “We are excited to welcome the Simply Connected team and its customers to our company. This acquisition will strengthen our presence in the southeast region and reflects our continued commitment to growing the company to better serve our customers.”

The fit for Valley Fiber was perfect as Simply Connected originally established itself because their area was under serviced, and residents were tired of poor internet service.

“Valley Fiber has a lot of the values Simply Connected maintained over the years,” said Guetre. “They also care for their friends, neighbours, and local businesses and this has made them successful, and now their plan is to enhance and expand the existing services.”

“Our priority when we began Simply Connected was to provide quality internet to an area that only had Dial-up available,” added Guetre. “Through years of hard work and determination, we have been able to give the Simply Connected customers the internet they needed at the time.”

However, Guetre admits that as time moves on, and technology changes it has evolved into customers wanting and needing more.

“In our meetings with the Valley Fiber team, we saw the same vision, that same determination and drive to succeed to bring newer updated technology and resources into the communities that we serve, while wanting to support our communities to grow and offer a better experience for our customers well into the future,” said Guetre. “We recognize that the acquisition to Valley Fiber not only meets, but exceeds the vision that we have always had, to supply better internet.”

“We feel that we could not ask for a better fit, that this is the right path to follow, while continuing to see our dream of a brighter future for our community’s growth while still being able to support the residents that helped us along the way,” he added.

Valley Fiber hired the full team Guetre had working for him acknowledging the value they bring.

In addition to the Simply Connected acquisition, Valley Fiber also brought on board TCI (Trans Canada Internet), a neighbouring fixed wireless internet provider servicing the areas closer to Lorette both north and south of the Trans Canada.

Valley Fiber Limited is a locally owned and operated technology firm based in rural Manitoba (head office based out of Winkler). Innovation and its almost limitless potential have been one of the core passions for the Valley Fiber development team. Since 2017, this team has been bringing its next-generation dedicated fibre optic infrastructure design to the region. Valley Fiber remains dedicated to building out rural Manitoba with better than city internet.

Valley Fiber is currently constructing the MB Fiber Build Project, a fibre infrastructure investment of $328M which includes over sixty municipalities, cities, and towns in rural Manitoba. The project will eventually service over 50,000 homes in rural Manitoba.

Daycares Coming to Three Additional Communities

By Angelique Forest

Parents in and around three more southeast communities will benefit from a recent announcement from the Province after they were ap proved for new daycares.

Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Wayne Ewasko made the announcement re cently confirming that Lorette, St. Adolphe and Kleefeld were selected as part of their phase 2 rollout of eventually creating almost 1,700 new childcare spaces.

Just like phase one, these daycares will be ready-to-move buildings that are constructed off site and then moved into each community. According to Ewasko, they are expected to be operational before the end of the year. Construction is slated to begin in late spring.

In total, phase one created over 650 spaces, including a daycare approved for Ile des Chenes. Phase two is adding an additional 1,004 spaces. Eligible applicants had to provide serviced land rent free for 15 years to the child-care provider, as well as building support services and maintenance and repair commitments. In return, they received a building on the site.

In partnership with the Federal Government, the Province has committed to develop 23,000 new, regulated not-for-profit child-care spaces for children under age seven across the province by 2026.

Mayor of Ritchot, Chris Ewan, said that his municipality has now received approval for two daycares under this program within the last year. Ewan added that with these two new facilities Ritchot will boast five public daycares along with additional private daycares.

“In Ile des Chenes, it will be in the south end of town, near the new development coming to the area,” said Ewen. “St. Adolphe is still confidential as we finalize some legal work.”

Ewen welcomes the new daycares as the community is growing. He said the current daycare in St. Adolphe has over 100 children on the waiting list and other communities are feeling the same pressure.

Kleefeld is receiving their new daycare with Happy Hive Childcare Centre approved for 74 spaces. Sixteen of those spots will be for infants and the other 58 for preschool children. While they have not been approved for any school-aged spots, they recognize the need and hope to be able to offer those spots at some point in the future.

“This project will be amazing for the community and we are all so excited to be a part of this!” said Christianne Stahl who is part of a group of

moms from Kleefeld that have been working tirelessly the last number of years to try and bring a daycare to their community.

The new daycare will open along Park Avenue, between the Rec Centre and playground.

“As far as we know they are hoping for us to have a building come fall so that could mean we could be operational by the end of this year,” said Stahl. “However no exact time frames have been given.”

“Kleefeld has grown a lot over the last few years, like many communities in the Southeast,” added Stahl. “Currently, other than a couple home daycares, there is no childcare here.”

Stahl said a wait list for childcare was already existed and after the announcement it grew even more.

“We will definitely be full right away and we hope to be able to provide more spots in the future for the many others on our list,” she said.

Niverville Woman Creates Running Club for Kids

By Angelique Forest

A new club is forming in Niverville to promote physical activity year round for youth and maybe spur on kids to step it up a bit during the winter months.

Loreena Poss, who is a local certified coach, has decided that Niverville could use a new club - a runner’s club!

Currently, she says that kids between the ages of 6 - 12 years old are welcome to join, but if the interest is there, she would even start a group for teens.

The training takes place on Saturday mornings. The running club costs about $80 per person for 8 week sessions.

Poss believes children need an outlet for their energy.

“I wanted to start a running club because I feel like it fills a need within Niverville that isn’t available for kids right now,” she ex-

plained. “Especially in these cold winter months, kids need to get energy out and get more exercise and have fun with other kids.”

Poss is confident she can offer an encouraging community activity to help kids in the community.

“I have coached competitive swimming in the past, which included dry land training (running and other dry land activities), and have been thinking of ways to get back into coaching that could benefit Niverville and the surrounding areas,” said Poss. “Having the beautiful track at the community center is incredible to make this possible!”

Poss’ goal for this club is that it would provide a fun environment for kids to meet other kids, get some exercise, learn new skills, and improve their speed and endurance.

“My long term goal is to foster a

love of running, and increase their desire to be involved in sports as they get older, as well as be able to look back and know they were encouraged and supported to follow whatever goals and dreams they have for the future,” she added.

To reach out to Poss and sign up for classes, email loreenaposs@ gmail.com.

Loreena Poss, who is a local certified coach, has decided that Niverville could use a new club - a runner’s club! Submitted photo

The governments of Canada and Manitoba are allocating up to $70 million in capital funding for new child-care facilities, creating more than 1,200 new, regulated non-profit child-care spaces across the province with a focus on rural and First Nations communities, Premier Heather Stefanson, Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Wayne Ewasko and federal parliamentary secretary Ya’ara Saks, on behalf of federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Karina Gould, announced in November. Screenshot photo

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2023

Lots on the Go with Aethos Taekwondo

By Lionel Bernier

The months of January and February were very busy indeed for students in the Lorette and Ste. Anne branches of Aethos Taekwondo. January 14 saw forty-three students testing for various colour belt ranks ranging from the first level of yellow stripe on the white belt all the way to the final level of the black stripe on the red belt.

This test was also memorable for two young black belts, Abbigail Keen and Gaiden Bernier, who participated for the first time in grading the performance of the students and provided nominations for certain certificate awards recognizing various aspects of Taekwondo that were well done. This first test was followed on January 30 with a supplemental test that catered to those students who were unable to attend the first one. An additional nineteen students tested.

On February 2, it was my distinct pleasure to not only formally recognize Abbigail Keen as a 2nd Dan black belt from her 2nd Poom belt grade but to also announce her promotion to Assistant Instructor in Aethos Taekwondo, both on the occasion of her 15th birthday. This was followed on February 21 with my announcement that Edric Comia was promoted to Instructor in Aethos Taekwondo. Edric had earned his 1st Poom black belt way back in 1983 when he was a member of Kang’s Taekwondo Academy.

Taekwondo Manitoba was finally able to provide the Taekwondo community of Manitoba with the tournament they usually hold at the beginning of January, the Winter Classic on February 18. Aethos Taekwondo was able to send twenty-two competitors where seven students competed in both patterns and sparring, six competed in only sparring, and eight competed in patterns only. One student decided to return home after watching some ferocious sparring of senior blacks who were allowed to compete first at this tournament.

Incredibly, these twenty-one stu-

dents brought home fourteen Gold Medals, six Silver Medals, and four Bronze Medals. For the first time, one student was a double Gold Medal winner in both events, Matylda Stasica. Her coach for the sparring competition was Aaron Bernier, doing so for the second consecutive tournament. Aethos Taekwondo was very pleased to provide two Taekwondo Manitoba certified referees for the Winter Classic, Elisabeth Fust from Lorette Branch with P2 certification and Carter Tardiff from Ste. Anne Branch with P3 certification.

Also winning gold in sparring were Yakiv Sydoriakin, Raydin LaJoie, Brody Keen, Rynn Todd, August Mousseau, Jayden Rattie, Chase Gagnon, and Jocelyn Kropodra. For some of these competitors it was either their first tournament attended or their first gold medal won in sparring.

Aethos Taekwondo “acquired” a new rookie coach in Abbigail Keen when she successfully coached her brother to his Gold Medal. Other coaches included Aaron Bernier, Edric Comia and Casia Schreyer.

Winning silver in sparring were Colton Neufeld and Hadi Dajani. The bronze medal winner was Kaiden Neufeld. Sparring competition can be adrenaline pumping stressful as it is full-contact that in some cases may rattle a person. So, showcased here is one instance where our Aethos competitor, August Mousseau, conducted himself with perfect sportsmanship by chatting with his opponents after the medals ceremony. Indeed, Melody Tardiff was complimented on several occasions regarding the respect and courtesy shown by our students at this tournament.

Winning gold in the pattern competition besides Matylda Stasica were Julien Comia, Anna Diadiun, Vivaan Thakur, and Devon Nichol. Like in sparring, some competed for the first time and for some, the gold medal was their first won in pattern competition. Winning silver were Colton Neufeld, Yakiv Sy-

doriakin, Raydin LaJoie, and Casia Schreyer. Bronze medals went to Ana Bivol, Anna Marie Rivest, and Frederik Kehoe.

There is no rest period for Aethos Taekwondo. An up-coming event on March 15 is an invitation from École Lorette Immersion to participate in their Wellness Fest, a day of physical activities for their kindergarten to grade eight students. This is to promote physical activities to the students but also to bring awareness to the students about various sports activities in Lorette.

Then shortly afterwards, Aethos Taekwondo has to prepare for and hold their third colour belt promotion test scheduled for April 8. A month later at the end of May, the 10th annual Community Challenge Invitational Taekwondo Tournament is slated to take place at the Notre Dame Arena in St. Boniface. This tournament is a favourite with the young students as a board breaking event is also offered for competition. Three months later at the end of June, a forth colour belt promotion test is planned.

The summer months will be no less hectic as three Summer Taekwondo Day Camps will be offered in Ste. Anne on July 10 - 14, July 31 - August 4, and August 21 - 25.

Aethos Taekwondo is hopeful that things will come together to hold its first black belt promotion test likely sometime in August or September for applicants who desire to earn degrees from 1st to 3rd Dan or Poom. There is also the distinct possibility that Aethos Taekwondo may acquire two new Master level black belts later this fall.

Finally at the September long weekend, Aethos Taekwondo has been asked by the organizers of The Dawson Trail Days event in Ste. Anne to think about holding a fun Taekwondo tournament hopefully with some other Taekwondo clubs participating. It is too soon to visualize what that tournament will look like or who will participate. But it sounds exciting so stay tuned.

Rya Bernier, Edric Comia, Elisabeth Fust, Master Lionel Bernier, August Mousseau, Gaiden Bernier, Jayden Rattie, Abbigail Keen, Brody Keen, Ana Bivol, Anna Diadiun, Yakiv Sydoriakin, Jocelyn Kropodra, Vivaan Thakur, Julien Comia, Matylda Stasica, Devon Nichol, Frederik Kehoe and Raydin LaJoie.

Photo by Aylee Braschuk.

Aethos Taekwondo from Lorette and Ste. Anne branches competed in Taekwondo Manitoba’s Winter Classic Taekwondo Tournament on February 18th. This post is to congratulate all our competitors and especially those from our Ste. Anne Branch. These seven young people came back with 8 medals, including 2 Gold Medals, 4 Silver Medals and 2 Bronze Medals accumulated in the patterns and sparring events. Amazingly, 5 of the 7 students were first time competitors!! Top: Melody Tardiff and Colton Neufeld, Casia Schreyer, Rynn Todd, Anna Marie Rivest. Bottom: Chase Gagnon, Hadi Dajani and Kaiden Neufeld. Photos by various people.

Photo by Lionel Bernier

Carter Tardiff and Elisabeth Fust, Taekwondo Manitoba Certified Kyorugi Referees.

August Mousseau at right.

Photo by Lionel Bernier.

Title by Melody Tardiff

Community Now Waits for Kraft Hockeyville Announcement

By Dan Guetre

It is now the “wait and see” nail biting period as the community of Ste. Anne awaits the announcement from Kraft Hockeyville to see if they made the list of the top 4 contestants as the judges tally the points from posts, likes and shares on social media.

The community, with help from many from the region,

was able to post 2,306 entries for the contest. According to the rules, if Ste. Anne is one of the campaigns chosen in the top 4, a $25,000 donation is guaranteed to be put towards a project in their arena with the Grand Prize of $250,000 within reach. The Grand Prize winner will also secure the potential to host preseason NHL hockey game.

Currently the Maurice Chaput Arena in the community is in dire

need for a new ice plant. With repairs made in the fall, the plant was up and running but it now on its last legs.

The final-4 announcement comes March 11 followed by a flurry of voting from March 31 to April 1 when the winner is announced.

Being a large urban centre does not necessarily give a community the advantage. As an example, take into account where the community

of St. Adolphe was able to secure a top four ranking and eventually walked away with the $25,000.

The Ste. Anne community knows they will need the support from the region to put them in the top spot after voting if the are successful in the top 4 selection.

In the meantime, everyone can prepare for the voting by visiting hockeyville.kraftcanada.ca and sign up in advance.

Make Room in Your Echo Chamber

that took hold outside of the main stream bias of politics. It became a game-changer for those at the time and for us today.

By Monica Guetre

Democracy can’t exist when we only hear opinions from politicians that tout the party line to incite their membership base.

Listening to only what like minded people say means that we’ll continue to repeat the existing status quo. It is self serving since an echo chamber reaffirms a believer’s bias.

This echo chamber is like buying one of those self-help books, dismissing what is too hard to change while liking the bits that already affirm what you believe in. I’d ask what was the point of buying and reading that book, if you are not going to try to do the big changes.

For some, it’s a hard decision to look inwards anymore because of really smart social media algorithms. But ask yourself what is your slippery slope? Do you excuse a leader that targets the differences between us or picks on the vulnerable because they “say” they are going to create more jobs or lower taxes?

This narrow tunnel vision leaves no room to encourage new ideas that actually could make life better, or create life changing opportunity that we never even saw coming. This irrational type of politics leaves out the majority of us; it leaves no room for common sense or consensus building. Is it really about the left or right? Instead let’s meet respectfully somewhere in the middle.

One example is the attack on universal healthcare where cost is shared and based on national standards. It was a bold idea

Recently the political echo chamber worked overtime leading up to the Federal-Provincial-Territorial healthcare talks with some Premiers threatening to look at some sort of private health care system. Most of us already know that going down that road means ending up with a two-tiered system; one for those that can pay and the leftovers for the rest of us. Essentially throwing us back to the 1950s.

Extreme political echo chamber biases do increase social and political polarization and even makes a pathway for violent extremism to take hold. Some politicians even give subtle or overt cover to extremists within their own party leading to hate and violence when they don’t condemn this rhetoric. Under those conditions hate filled extremists will find a foot-hold because many Canadians get tired of listening to the same narrowminded ranting over and over. It all becomes blah-blah-blah and we end up disinterested.

But turning away is not what we should be doing. We really need to listen carefully to what the political echo chambers are saying because we’ll be making our own life decisions based on what we hear. We have to make the effort to push back more, get involved. When we don’t say something or counter back, then we are saying, we accept and agree with these extreme prejudices.

Our inaction allows extremist rhetoric to flourish in Canada. Take a hard look at what happens when we put our heads in the sand.

Our prime minister gets pelted with rocks, our leaders get threatened with violence all of the time and even women politicians are physically accosted. This spills over affecting our daily life.

Last year’s Winnipeg Police Service’s annual crime report showed that hate crimes went up by 46.2 per cent in 2021 from 2020. Crimes involving race/ethnicity was the most reported crime at 53 per cent, followed by religion at 39 per cent, and sexual orientation at eight per cent. Look at the gunman who shot

and killed a soldier at the National War Memorial in Ontario. He went on to try and kill politicians in our Parliament, or the man who opened fire at an Islamic Cultural Centre killing six people and wounding 19 others. This shooter was reportedly a known activist with nationalist, anti-feminist views. Or how about the Incel Movement that advocates violence against women which has influenced over 50 attacks in the United States and Canada with online forums. This single online echo chamber influenced a man to drive a van down a busy street in Toronto killing ten and injuring 16. What about the rise of groups such as Diagolon and Proud Boys, both are neo-fascist groups engaged in political violence espouse misogynistic, Islamophobic, anti-Semitic, antiimmigrant, and white supremacist ideologies.

We need to hold our politicians accountable; make their echo chambers accountable to us, instead of the other way around. We are the taxpayer and the voter! We are the ones with control over our shared values. As soon as you hear a politician or self-proclaimed leader say all our woes are because of immigration, refugees, religion, equality, gender, language and so on, don’t run for the hills. Pull the alarm bell and push back, sometimes loudly but always respectfully. Our Canadian Charter does not protect expression such as hate speech that involves threats or the form of violence. Hate has nothing to do with our protected fundamental freedom of free speech.

How do we hold politicians and their echo chamber accountable?

First, let them know that cozying up to hateful extremists is not okay and they need to publicly denounce this type of activity and not just a single time, repeatedly as the message needs to be heard.

For those of us who have been through quite a few election cycles, we already know that each political party talks about the same basic topics. Unless there is some huge new idea it’s always going to be about healthcare, education, jobs, taxes, infrastructure.

Let’s not allow ourselves to go down the slippery slopes. Be firm

don’t allow any excuse for hateful behaviour.

When politicians get to healthcare, don’t blow a gasket from frustration. Ask how are they going to be accountable and get specific. How will you increase the number of medical professionals, reduce wait times, make it more efficient, and most unimportantly, how will be kept free and accessible across the whole country in rural and urban areas?

On education ask what is the measure of success. Is your plan affordable, will it help our children and post secondary students excel to be ready for future opportunities and continue to be inclusive, does it allow failure?

When they say more jobs are coming… ask where and what kind of job? Is the job dependent on renewable resources or not? Does it put food on the table and a roof over our head?

Is that infrastructure plan going to benefit us? Can the problem be solved for less money? Is it sustainable? Where will this money be spent? Can it reduce our own household costs, and does it make our lives healthier and safer?

For taxes, show us who really gets the tax break. Is it actually lower taxes or just a credit that you only get over a certain income threshold? Is the tax break for big business? Will it made to hinder small business and individuals? What is going to be cut or what are you going to increase to pay for that?

Stay aware and recognize that political echo chambers will always generalize their plan of action but they should never espouse hate. A political plan is different from the reality of governing with fairness, equality and respect of our freedom.

We are fortunate that we don’t live in the extreme echo chambers of Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, Afghanistan, Syria… places that don’t allow any type of discourse since they control the media. The majority of people in those countries only hear what their government wants them to hear in order to justify absolute control with their wars, imprisonment, torture, and disappearances.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Town and RM in Preliminary Land Annexation Discussion

By Dan Guetre

The Town of Ste. Anne is feeling the squeeze as available land within their boundaries has either been developed or will be in the next year or so.

Yvan St. Vincent, Mayor for the Town of Ste. Anne says there is a need for land targeting both residential and business growth.

“Our boundaries need to change to accommodate all growth as we have either developed or have plans to develop most of our available land,” said St. Vincent. “The Town needs an employment area, and new commercial space. As it stands now, all of the available commercial space has been filled.”

St. Vincent and his council recently shared a proposal with the RM of Ste. Anne at a recent joint meeting between the two municipalities.

“We hired a consultant to see if this was viable, they feel it is, so they developed a proposal for us which we shared with the RM last week,” explained St. Vincent. “There are lots of directions this can go, like nothing happens, or we move our boundaries and we partner on things moving forward.”

The RM of Ste. Anne has no plans on shutting down discussions on this issue, as according to the Reeve, there will be an ongoing conversation over the next few weeks or months.

“As the plan and some details were just recently presented, Council will be taking time to discuss and review the material and will follow up with discussions with the Town to move forward,” added Reeve Richard Pelletier.

Pelletier says his council will continue to meet and discuss the plan as it was presented to them with the Town council.

“We are confident through continued discussion, that we can come to an agreement that works for both the Town and the RM,” he assured.

St. Vincent is hopeful that a joint boundary realignment study could be “finished as soon as September 2023 if all parties can come to an agreement.” He added that the province had recommended the study after it was identified back in 2020 that the town’s available lands were not sustainable for additional growth for residential and commercial/light industrial.

Pelletier says his council is hopeful they can work as a team “and come to an agreement that works best for the Town and the Municipality.”

Celebrating Women, Wine and Theatre

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Agape House - Eastman Crisis Centre is presenting their evening of Women, Wine & Theatre on March 10 at the Pat Porter Centre in Steinbach.

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This day presents an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of women, and to renew efforts in achieving gender equality in Canada and around the world.

The annual fundraising event will feature a variety of entertainment, delicious hors d’oeuvres, silent auction, 50/50 Draw, wine and more!

The event runs from 7 pm to 10 pm and tickets are only $25 each. Tables seat 8 so groups/companies are encouraged to purchase a table. Agape House has a goal of raising $60,000 this year during this event. Funds raised will go toward the expansion of Agape House’s programs and services, and to raise awareness of the community organization. Please visit agapehouse.ca to learn more about their work in the community.

March 2023

Food Bank Gets Generous Support from Municipality

By Dan

Guetre

At a recent council meeting with the RM of Ste. Anne, the Accueil Kateri Centre received more than they expected when councilors unilaterally increased their financial commitment.

The food bank president, Aurèle Boisvert had just finished giving a presentation to council with a request for an increase in support from about $7,500 to $9,500 for 2023.

Shortly after he left council chambers, a lively discussion ensued and an inspired council ended up committing $10,500 to the service group.

“Council recognizes that Accueil Kateri Centre is a wonderful organization meeting an ever-increasing need in the community,” said RM of Ste. Anne Reeve Richard Pelletier. “Their team of experienced and dedicated volunteers continues to go above and beyond in terms of their time and commitment to ensure that those who depend on them have the resources they need.”

“Council recognized this and voted to increase the donation over

the request to ensure they were well equipped to manage increased costs and need for their service,” he added. “The total amount is the equivalent of each resident in the RM making a $2 donation.”

Council explained that this amount also includes provisions for the annual Christmas hamper food drive but in the end, it was still a $3,000 increase in support.

Food security has been talked about a lot lately and this was a consideration when Council was considering the request.

“The cost of food, in addition to other cost increases (gas, etc.) has put a strain on many of us, and Council

wanted to ensure that Accueil Kateri Centre was prepare and able to support anyone who identified needing some support throughout the year,” said Pelletier.

Additionally, according to Pelletier, council would also be open to considering a request by Accueil Kateri Centre for a longer term commitment. This could help the food bank with budgeting knowing they would not have to present a request annually.

Pelletier said council recognizes the important work and contributions to the community from Accueil Kateri Centre, and is very open to considering various ways that they can partner to best support the community.

Aurèle Boisvert, President of Accueil Kateri Centre gives a presentation in from of the RM of Ste. Anne council. Screenshot photo

Lorette Woman Builds Easter Baskets for Kids in Shelters

By Angelique Forest

A Lorette woman who is a “play advisor” for Discovery Toys has joined in on a Provincial campaign to create Easter baskets which will be handed out to children that find themselves living in a shelter.

Tia Sunley has been a Discovery Toys Advisor since 2015.

She and her peers from across Manitoba have created this annual drive and to date have provided over 1,200 baskets to shelters that have children staying in their facilities.

“Our Manitoba Team of Discovery Toys Play Advisors will hopefully provide Easter baskets to over 300 kids staying at 10 MAWS women’s shelters, Ronald McDonald House Manitoba and Dignity House,” said Sunley. “We collect all the donations, package them into baskets and deliver the baskets to these organizations!”

Sunley says this year the demand is higher than usual with requests of over 300 baskets, an increased from last year’s 250 baskets. She explained that they thankfully have repeat sponsors but they are always seeking any kind of help, including suggestions.

Sunley is reaching out to the southeast to help her fill some baskets.

Donating can be as simple as new donation ideas, or individually wrapped treats. Other donations include new toiletries, or monetary donations via e-transfer, cash or

cheque. Donations are welcome from anyone, personal or corporate alike. Additionally, baskets can be sponsored for $30 each, but any amount is welcome.

“I would love to come pick up donations so I can thank you in person,” added Sunley. She can be reach via email at tiasunley@ gmail.com to arrange drop-off of donations or for e-transfer.

Campground in St. Malo Receives National Recognition

Debonair Campground in St. Malo has been named the Canadian Camping and RV Council’s 2023 Campground of the Year - Small Park.

The Canadian Camping and RV Council represents the interests of private campground owners across Canada for the betterment and support of the Camping and RV Industry.

Receiving dozens of nominations, this park seems to be a favorite for campers in Manitoba.

Debonair guests can enjoy their private

beach within a short stroll of their personalized camping sites. The palm trees around the beach make for a tropical feel, and play structures throughout the campground provide a safe and fun area for kids of all ages. The campground is setup for both seasonal and daily campers.

Debonair Campground was established in 1985 by JP and Agnes Gosselin. After more than 30 years of successfully building their business, the Gosselins sold the operation in 2017 to James Katsabanis.

Easter baskets which will be handed out to children that find themselves living in a shelter.

Photo from Debonair Campground/Facebook

Debonair Campground in St. Malo has been named the Canadian Camping and RV Council’s 2023 Campground of the Year - Small Park.

Plans for New Grocery Store in Ste. Anne “A Significant Investment”

St. Vincent confirmed that the town had approached Clearview Co-op, and others, to explore many options in a larger grocery store including the already existing store.

“Our residents have been asking for it for a long time but in the end it was Co-op who initiated another feasibility to determine if a store was sustainable, and then made the decision to place a store in town,” he said.

“We’re excited to continue growing in Ste. Anne, where it all began for Clearview,” said Nickel. “We’re committed to the community and surrounding towns, providing them with fresh, wholesome food that supports local farmers and producers.”

Nickel said the plan is to start building as soon as possible in 2023 with a scheduled opening in mid to late 2024.

Ste. Anne could be the start for Clearview’s continued growth as Nickel confirmed there are plans to develop more grocery stores in southeastern Manitoba in the future, although none are officially in the plans as of today.

By Dan Guetre

An investment in the community where it all began is bringing Clearview Co-op full circle as it announced it is building a new grocery store in Ste. Anne.

Clearview Co-op, rebranded a few years back from Ste. Anne Co-op, has grown from one location in the community back in 1931 to 21 locations spanning throughout southeastern Manitoba and Fort Francis in Ontario.

In a statement, Clearview Co-op recognized that Ste. Anne has grown and its needs are changing, making a new grocery store a perfect fit for their own growth.

“Ste. Anne is a growing community and the services in the community are not keeping up with the growth,” said Henry Nickel, General Manager of Clearview Co-op, “so we are looking to fulfill a need for our members within the Ste. Anne area.”

According to Nickel, the store will be located on Traverse Road just south of Central Ave.

While he would not comment on the value of the project, Nickel did admit “it is a significant investment for the Ste. Anne community.”

Ste. Anne Mayor Yvan St. Vincent views this addition as a

catalyst for further development of the community.

“They are projecting 45-50 full and part time jobs, the economic spin off will be impactful as the Town has experienced a high level of residential growth over the last 10 years and this will continue,” said St. Vincent.

“Commercial development will not come until it can be sustained by new residential growth [and] projects like the Coop grocery store shine a light on Ste. Anne and the potential for commercial success,” he added.

As for future development, St. Vincent said council expects more of the same and are preparing for it.

“We are hoping to keep residents in town instead of travelling to Steinbach or Winnipeg,” he added. “We are hopeful and confident our current grocer will still have a role to play in this area so that both stores can thrive as Ste Anne continues to grow.”

“This project has been in the works for many years,” explained St. Vincent and added that their Community Development Corporation will be used to administer an economic incentive grant for infrastructure upgrade to accommodate the new store.

An investment in the community where it all began is bringing Clearview Co-op full circle as it announced it is building a new grocery store in Ste. Anne. An architect’s rendering of the future store is pictured here.

The store will be on Traverse Road, just south of Main Street. Photos from facebook.com/clearviewcoop

Species at Risk Spotlight: Snapping Turtle

By Norm Gregoire

When talking with community members in the tall-grass prairie natural area about species at risk, one species usually gets the same response: “Oh, I didn’t know snapping turtles were at risk!”. In the more eastern parts of their North American range populations are fairly stable; however, this is not the case in the prairies. The Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada lists them as special concern.

We have come to associate these reptiles with our bodies of water here in the southeast; after all, they have been here for a long time. In fact, snapping turtles are prehistoric and have been around for over ninety-million years! One look at them confirms this. A fully grown turtle weighs 15 kg and occasionally up to 35 kg. Snapping turtles are brown to olive in colour, with a long neck leading to a large head and hooked upper jaw. The long-studded tail and limbs cannot be retracted into the shell due to the small size of the lower shell, which is smaller compared to other species of turtle.

Most other turtles rely on their shell as protection, but due to the snapping turtle’s inability to retract its limbs, it relies on that powerful upper jaw to ward off potential predators. This is how its namesake came to be. Over the years this has caused a bit of misinformation in regard to how aggressive a snapping turtle is. I have to admit that as a kid, when I would swim in waters where snapping turtles could be present, I tended to ball-up my fingers and toes as best as I could. I was scared that a snapper may swim by and take advantage of an easy meal. Although snapping turtles can be defensive on land, in water, they are quite docile, preferring to flee at first sight of you.

This negative outlook on snapping turtles has unfortunately made them a target of persecution by people, who consider them a pest. Snapping turtles are just the opposite! They play a critical role in the ecosystem that they are found in as they are scavengers and can help to keep the waters clean.

The biggest issue snapping turtles face is the loss of their wetland habitat. One of the side effects is road mortality. Adult females may have to travel in fragmented habitat in search of ideal egg-laying nests, which tend to be in sand or gravel-based areas. The shoulders on our roadways are perfect for this. Inadvertently the female, or the young, may be struck by oncoming traffic. If the young do hatch, they may have to travel back through this fragmented area, risking not only road mortality but a greater chance of being predated on.

When a mature, female snapping turtle is lost the effects are very negative. Individuals may live over seventy years old but are not sexually mature until fifteen to twenty years old. This means that when an egg-laying female is lost it takes years for the population to recover.

Snapping turtles have been a part of the landscape for such a long time it would be a tragedy to lose them now. Conservation efforts are making a positive impact and with our cooperation this species at risk should be here for years to come. Please reach out with any questions or concerns: sarcommunityliaison@gmail.com

Forging Ahead Founder Receives Quilt of Valour

By Angelique Forest

Forging Ahead, a non-profit in St. Adolphe recently saw the spotlight as the founder has been recognized with the Quilt of Valour. The quilt is known as a “hug” from a grateful nation and a tribute to a Canadian Armed Forces member, past or present.

Forging Ahead is dedicated to helping veterans and first responders with operational stress injuries manage and cope with their emotions through the use of artistic blacksmithing and metalworking.

Near the end of January, Cameron Bennett, the founder of the organization was nominated by another veteran for the Quilt.

“It was a truly humbling moment. Someone made this for me. In some ways, I don’t feel deserving as we have only just started,” said Bennett.

Bennett believes the organization he started, though still in its infancy, is only going to continue to grow.

“Things have been progressing well,” he said. “We have had some learning plateaus and hills to climb but we are meeting them all as they come with positive results, or a good learning lesson.”

Not to long ago, Bennett was struggling with all the paperwork and legalities to become an official charity organization. He is thankful for the people and businesses that stepped up and helped him get through this stage.

“Our organizations had gained awareness from a lot of outside organizations that are inquiring about support such as true patriot

love foundation, the Royal Canadian Legion, and we are preparing a presentation for the Winnipeg first responders’ branches,” said Bennett.

Other partnerships include Swish productions, who now manages their social media presence and this has resulted in opening many doors for the charity.

Bennett believes their next step is

to obtain some help with the administration and finances. He is focusing on exploring opportunities to spread awareness of the project, as well as encouraging more potential “forgers” to reach out.

“We want to unite arts and crafts to help people through alternative art therapy,” explained Bennett. For more information on Forging Ahead visit forgingaheadinc.org.

Photo by Johnathan David

Snapping turtles have been a part of the landscape for such a long time it would be a tragedy to lose them now.

Pictures supplied by Cameron Bennett

The quilt is known as a “hug” from a grateful nation and a tribute to a Canadian Armed Forces member, past or present.

Cameron Bennett, the founder of Forging Ahead, a non-profit in St. Adolphe recently saw the spotlight as the founder has been recognized with the Quilt of Valour.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

St. Malo’s “Coin Rendezvous Corner” to Gain Improved Exposure

By Dan Guetre

The “deer” which hover over guests at a developing pocket park and rest area in St. Malo will soon receive additional exposure as the RM of De Salaberry puts the final approvals in place for custom created signage to be erected at both major entries into the community.

During the February 21 meeting, council reviewed the final proposed way finding sign to direct guests to the Coin Rendezvous Corner.

According to the RM of De Salaberry CAO Denise Parent, plans for the rest area are to showcase the history and heritage of the St. Malo Community. The signage is just a step in the development.

“Interpretive story boards are being completed and will tell the story of the community leading back to the Indigenous peoples, the emergence of Métis people, and the first settlers,” said Parent.

“The RM of De Salaberry has been planning this project for a number of years,” she explained. “The municipality purchased the 1-acre property in 2017 with the intention of turning the area into a community greenspace.”

In November of 2020, HTFC Planning & Design was hired to prepare a concept plan she added.

“An electric car charging station was installed in 2021,” said Parent. “Currently, the municipality is completing interpretive panels and wayfinding signs for this site.”

The entire project budget is just

over $800,000 and council has a portion of the funds raised and set aside.

“We have been working hard to raise funds to transform this area into a beautiful community space where everyone is welcome,” said Parent. “The RM has applied for

the Building Sustainable Communities Grant as well as the Trans Canada Trail for funding for this project and is hoping to receive approval in 2023.”

Parent says council is hoping to have this project completed within the next two years.

Manitoba Conservation Nab Offenders

On October 29, two individuals from Winnipeg and Landmark were found hunting moose along the Steeprock Road in the Porcupine Provincial Forest, which is closed to all moose hunting. Charges of hunting moose within the moose closure were laid. If convicted, a person can be fined up to $25,000 or receive up to six months in jail, or both.

In November, a Beausejour conservation officer investigated a complaint in the La Broquerie area of trapper trespassing. An individual had set several power snares on private land without permission of the owner. This negligent action resulted in the death of two of the homeowner’s dogs.

The individual, from La Broquerie West, was identified and charged with trapping on private land without permission and trapping in a manner dangerous to property.

The individual faces fines of up to $25,000 or imprisonment for a term of no more than six months, or both.

Also in November, Beausejour conservation officers conducted a white-tailed deer decoy operation in the Anola area in response to complaints of individuals shooting deer from the road. Officers observed two individuals in a grey truck stopped at the decoy and the passenger shoot the decoy out the window using a high-powered rifle. Officers conducted a stop and arrested two individuals.

The shooter, from Ross, was charged with discharging a firearm from a vehicle and because this occurred in an archery only area, he was also charged with hunting out of season. Two rifles and other hunting equipment were seized. The shooter was issued a ticket

for $1,782 and given a two-year hunting suspension. The driver of the vehicle, also from Ross, was charged with hunting from a vehicle and faces fines of $1,296 and a two-year hunting suspension.

Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development advises conservation officers are continuing enforcement to protect natural resources through a variety of enforcement activities across the province, including roadside checkstops in key locations to ensure compliance with natural resource and public safety legislation.

Anyone with information on illegal activity is asked to call local Natural Resources and Northern Development office or the Turn in Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800782-0076.

March 2023

RM of De Salaberry Council Gives Community a Say in Their Pay

By Dan Guetre

A “residents committee” established in the RM of De Salaberry has the opportunity to review the council indemnity bylaw and make recommendations of how and how much their councillors are paid.

RM of De Salaberry CAO Denise Parent explained this concept is not new to municipal councils.

“While this may appear to be unique, there are other municipalities that have taken this approach,” she said.

De Salaberry council, in an effort to remain transparent with their residents, believe the guidance of this committee ensures council receives an objective opinion when it comes to paying themselves with taxpayer dollars.

“The purpose of the resident committee was to have an independent review council’s indemnity and to make a recommendation(s) to council,” said Parent. “The committee was provided a comparison of indemnities with similar sized and surrounding municipalities. They reviewed the current by-law with the comparisons and made a recommendation to council for the proposed indemnities as well as a few changes to the by-law.”

The committee is created through a nomination process.

“Each councillor was asked to submit a name for the committee,” she explained. “The 7 nominees represented business owners, residents and one ex-

The “deer” (below) which hover over guests at a developing pocket park and rest area in St. Malo will soon receive additional exposure as the RM of De Salaberry puts the final approvals in place for custom created signage (above) to be erected at both major entries into the community.

Submitted / file photos

March 31 Deadlines and Tax Changes for Renters

There are two benefits and rebates available. One for low-income renters and one for those who own farmland. But the deadlines are fast approaching; the deadline for both of them is March 31, 2023.

And there are some changes on the 2022 Personal Income Taxes when renters are claiming the rent they pay.

Canada Housing Benefit

The one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit aims to help low-income renters with the cost of renting. You may be eligible for a tax-free one-time payment of $500 if your income and the amount that you pay on rent qualify.

The Basics of the Canada Housing Benefit - 2021 net income: $35,000 or less for fami-

lies (includes single parents); $20,000 or less for individuals.

- Have 2022 eligible rent that you paid in the 2022 calendar year.

- Rent is at least 30% of your 2021 net income.

- If you share rent (roommates), each of you can claim even if only one individual was making payments to the landlord; use the portion of the rent that you paid.

- If you paid rent to a parent or another relative, only include this as rent if the payment would be considered by the CRA as rental income for tax purposes for the parent or relative who received it.

- Must apply by March 31 2023!

How to Apply

You can apply online using CRA My Ac-

count or by using My Service Canada Account (MSCA). If you do not have online access, get registered now. You can search CRA My Account to find out how.

To apply for the Canada Housing Benefit, applicants will need to provide the address of their principal residence, the total rent paid in the 2022 calendar year for that residence, as well as the name and contact information of the persons to whom the rent was paid.

Keep Your Receipts

Keep your records and receipts to support the amounts in your application for six years. The CRA routinely checks to confirm that recipients were entitled to the payment they received.

If your application is selected for review, the CRA may ask you to provide additional information.

Manitoba Farmland School Tax Rebate

If you live on some acreage, check to see if your property tax bill refers to “farm property”.

If so, you may qualify for the Farmland School Tax Rebate. You do not need to be “farming”.

We discovered this many years ago. I was assisting a client apply for the rebate and said, “I didn’t think you actually farmed?” and the client replied, that the rebate is based on how the land is zoned, not how it is used.

I went home and checked our property tax bill and realized, yes, it said “farmland” on it (it’s mostly swamp, but that is how it is zoned!).

We didn’t realize we could claim this rebate; we always thought you had to be actually farming. After learning from the client, each year we apply for the Farmland School Tax Rebate.

The Application deadline is March 31, 2023, for the 2022 property taxes. Search Manitoba Farmland School Tax Rebate to see how to apply online.

You do need to upload a digital copy of your property tax bill and a copy of the receipt that proves the taxes are paid in full. There may be an option to mail the application and copies of the property tax bill and receipt.

Manitoba Renters Tax Credit

The Province of Manitoba has made some changes to how renters claim the rent they pay.

First, the credit is based on the number of months. The credit is $43.75 per month to a maximum of $525 for the year. For most renters this will not be a change from previous years.

The second change is for those with roommates: this is the first year each of

you can claim a portion. For example, two roommates can each claim 6 months and each receive ½ of the $525 on their taxes or $262.50. In previous years, only one could claim the credit and hopefully share it with the other roommate.

The third change is that a person cannot claim this credit for any month for a residence they shared with the owner of the residence. There is only one credit per home and the homeowner already receives it.

The fourth change is for those who receive rent assist. You can now claim and receive the Renters Tax Credit. In previous years, most individuals receiving rent assist could not receive the credit.

CRA and Tax Filing is Now Open!

CRA opened on Monday, February 20 and since that date, we can now efile tax returns and also retrieve tax slips.

Retrieving tax slips is a gradual event. It depends on how quickly the issuer actually uploads the information to CRA.

Each year, CRA receives the government tax slips by mid-February, so we already have access to CPP, OAS, EI, EIA.

And this year we have already some T5s: Steinbach Credit Union, Caisse Financial Group and Cambrian CU; plus T4RIF SCU is now available too.

The rest of the banks and credit unions and other payers like T4 employers will eventually upload their tax slips too. They are required to mail or have available the digital copy by February 28 each year.

There are some exceptions: T3 investments, RRSP contribution receipts, T5008 sale of investments can be issued later, normally by Mar 31.

If you do not receive your tax slips by about the 10th of March, check your CRA My Account online to see if the tax slips are there. If you file your taxes with our office, we can check to see what CRA has.

The filing deadline is May 1, 2023. Do not wait until the last minute!

Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and Certified Financial Planner; living, working, and volunteering in our community. Contact Ste Anne Tax Service at 204-422-6631 (phone or text!) or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Coop) or info@sataxes.ca.

Be Alert to Recent Increase in Emergency / Grandparent Scams

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) and Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are launching a fraud prevention campaign, February 6 to 10, 2023, to raise awareness about the significant increase in emergency-grandparent scams targeting Canadian seniors.

In 2022, the CAFC received fraud reports totalling a staggering $530 million in victim losses. This was nearly a 40 per cent increase from the 2021 unprecedented $380 million in losses.

Fraudsters target anyone and everyone, particularly the vulnerable and seniors. In 2022, more than $9.2 million was reported lost to emergency scams, according to the CAFC. This was a drastic increase from $2.4 million in 2021. Reports

from residents indicate that in Manitoba during 2022 there were over $313,000 in reported losses. It is estimated that only 5-10 per cent of victims report scams and fraud to the CAFC or law enforcement.

What is an emergency scam?

Emergency scams, including variations called “grandparent scams”, use urgency and the manipulation of emotions to extort money from victims.

In these scams, fraudsters cold call seniors, on landline phones, claiming to be a grandchild, family member, law enforcement officer or lawyer calling on behalf of their loved one. They’ll say that the person’s loved one was involved in an emergency situation, such as a collision, charged by law enforcement, legal peril, being sick or in-

jured, etc. They demand the senior provide payment immediately for supposed bail, legal fees, fines or other amounts “owed” to stop the family member from going to jail or to get them released from custody. This is a scam.

The fraudsters isolate the victims by informing them that there is a court-imposed gag order, and they’re forbidden from discussing the matter.

The victims are directed to attend their financial institution to withdraw the requested amount in cash. The fraudsters will then send someone to pick it up from the victim’s home or have the victim send the money via courier services. There have also been reports of victims paying with cryptocurrency.

The Clutching of “Stuff”

childhood and a safer one, I did find that my family did not have many of the luxuries that I saw the other kids in school having. We definitely went without more often than I can remember. Still, it taught me many lessons that still serve me today and I am thankful for those lessons.

As you read this, I hope that the warmer weather has found you and that you are truly enjoying it.

For the last while, my mind has been wandering around the idea and the concepts of minimalism. Like a cat with a ball that has a bell in it, my mind has been tossing the idea of having less stuff. Less stuff in the house, less stuff in the garage, the car, at work and less stuff in my head and my heart.

I heard about minimalism years ago and Netflix has/had a “documentary” on two guys that discussed their minimalism journey. This documentary was followed by another a couple of years later, both are worth watching but I did find that the first one was better received by myself.

Despite the length of time since I first heard about it and the interest that I have in it, I do find it hard to throw myself whole-heartedly into the minimalism life. I do think that a lot of my resistance is from my childhood and the lessons I learned and the environment that I grew up in. While it was a good

One lesson that I did learn is that when you get something, some stuff no matter how random, you hang onto it, after all, you may never get it again and you may really need this at some point later on. This is one lesson that I’ve struggled with all my entire life. I have always found it hard to let go of things that I didn’t need or things that were just not serving a purpose in my life. I can honestly say that I still have some things in the basement of my home, things that I received as a child and have done nothing with but to carry them with me as I moved from house to house, in my younger days.

I have always shaken my head at people that do not understand my upbringing and the hold that clutching onto things has over a person. “Just throw it away,” is a phrase that I’ve heard countless times. These folks, while hopefully meaning well, do not understand that this is a process that takes time and energy and that the person, myself, has to be in a place to be willing to do so. Also, I do worry that my home will look barren and lifeless if I discard all that I’ve held onto throughout the years. It is a silly thought as I know that there will always be items around me, but they will just be

items that bring me joy and serve a wonderful purpose.

With my mindset slowly changing I do feel that my eyes are being opened and that I have begun seeing things differently than before.

With this new set of eyes, this new mindset, I can see that this stuff is not being a benefit to my current life nor are they bringing joy to myself nor my family as these items take up space in our home.

As I near the age of fifty, it is a delight to look back and see how far I’ve grown as a person and it is exciting to look forward in wonderful expectation at all that is to come.

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

March 2023

Falcon Beach

Bingo – Wednesdays at 7: 30 pm, early bird games at 7 pm at the Whiteshell Community Club 20 301 Pr, Falcon Beach. Contact 204-349-2293.

Friedensfeld

FCC Whist Drive - Sunday, March 12, at the community centre. Family friendly card game, similar to Rook or Hearts, but played with pre-determined Trump and also a no-trump round. Youth as young a 10 years can play too. Players change seats as rounds are won or lost and by the end of 20 rounds you will have played with or against almost everyone there. A $5 fee is charged for each player, coffee and pop are included, and a snack is provided after the game. Smaller children can play and run around the hall while their parents visit and play.

Gardenton

Spring Craft & Bake Sale – Saturday, April 1, 10 am – 2 pm at the Park Hall. Hot lunch available. Contact Kelvin 204-4258197, kdc0925@gmail.com for table rentals.

Grunthal

Coffee Connections - All adults ages 55+ are welcome to join us at the New Horizon Centre for a time of visiting, while enjoying coffee, tea and refreshments. Join us and bring your friends. There is no cost. Contact Anita Funk 204-371-9134.

Ile des Chenes

Snowman Festival – Saturday, February 4, 10 am – 6 pm at the TC Energy Centre. Snowshoeing and Tobogganing all day (bring your own toboggan), Canteen, Crib Tournament registration at 11:30 am cost $20/team. Bingo Kids, Carnival games, kids crafts, Cookie decorating, Story Time, bouncer, Pony Rides (cost $5), fireworks 5:45 pm, 50/50 Draw.

Yoga - Thursdays at 9 am and Wednesdays at 9:30 am. Gentle yet invigorating yoga for adults 55+. $5 per class. Contact yogaforyoumanitoba@outlook.com to register.

Lorette

36 Hour Hockey 21st Anniversary Reunion – Saturday, March 18 at the Community Centre. Door prize tickets will be $10 and available at the arena entrance. Funds raised go towards the New Arena Building Fund, Sledge Hockey Manitoba and the Tache Food Resource Center. Everyone welcome!

5 - 6 pm - Friends & Family Co-Ed Hockey Game

6:15 - 7:15 pm - Friends & Family Co-Ed Hockey Game

7:30 - 8:30 pm - Sledge Hockey Manitoba Showcase Game

8:45 - 9:45 - Friends & Family Co-Ed Hockey Game

Red River Métis Local Meeting – Monday, March 20, 6:30 pm at the Le Club Les Bles D’or, 1254 Dawson Rd. Join us for updates, consultations and door prize draw. RSVP to lorettemetislocal@gmail.com.

Tache Library - Hosting various events throughout the month including Family Library Night & Book Club. Everyone welcome!

Middlebro

Middlebro Community Hall presents Poker Derby, Saturday, March 4, 11 am to 4 pm. $5 per hand. Rainbow Auction, 50/50, Canteen. For more information contact Carrie at 204-380-3529, Jodie at 204-437-2437 or Sharon at 431-997-5384.

Middlebro Community Hall Texas Hold’em Tournament on Saturday, March 4. Registration from 10 – 11 am. Cards fly at 11 am! 75% payout. $30 entry fee and 3 rebuys allowed. Call Gary at 204-437-2251 for more info.

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

Niverville

Open House Red-Seine-Rat Wastewater Co-op – Thursday,

Ritchot Senior Services Events

Ritchot Senior Services Spring Luncheon - Tuesday March 21, 11 am – 1 pm. Menu to include pea soup, salad, bread and dessert. Space is limited; you must pre register for this event by contacting Ritchot Senior Services. $2 per person. Quilting & Knitting – Tuesday, March 7 and 14 from 1:30 – 3 pm at 457 Main Street, St. Adolphe.

Touch Quilts - are being created that will be donated to the Manitoba Alzheimer Society. Touch Quilts provide individuals in the late stages of dementia with an opportunity for sensory stimulation which is important for someone affected by dementia because it can provide feelings of comfort and relaxation.

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities! Dawson Trail Dispatch

C ommunity E v E nts

March 9, 4 – 7 pm at the community centre, 2nd floor multipurpose room, 501 centre St. Join us at the open house for the joint municipal solution for wastewater treatment, increase treatment capacity, environmental regulations, preliminary design concept and update.

Richer

Dinner & Dance - Saturday, March 18, doors open at 4:30 pm, dinner at 6 pm and dancing until 11 pm at the Young At Hearts Club. Music by Mosaics. Tickets $25 each. Call Ron at 431-275-0874 for tickets.

Growing Mushrooms & Making Maple Syrup – April 6, 6:30

– 8:30 pm at the Young at Hearts Club. Come learn and have fun with Ken Fosty certified aborist on how to grow, harvest mushrooms and process maple syrup in your own back yard. Kits for starting mushrooms and taps for harvesting sap will be available for purchase. Contact Jerry Carrier richermetis@ gmail.com.

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

Chase the Ace - every Saturday night at the Richer Hotel. Tickets on sale from 5 pm to 7:45 pm. Organized by the Richer Community Club, see Facebook page for more info.

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.

Limited seats please reserve. Doors Opent 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.

RM of Stuartburn

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

Services to Seniors Steinbach Shuttle - Subsidized cost $15/ person. Minimum of 8 participants required for the trip to take place. Departure from Shady Oaks at 9:30 am. Call 204-4253701 to book a seat.

South Junction

Southeast Farmer’s Market - Indoor Market Days at the Pine Grove Seniors:

Saturday, March 11 - 10 am to 2 pm

Saturday April 1 - Easter Market - 10 am – 2 pm

Saturday May 13 – Mother’s Day Market – 10 am -2 pm

Saturday, June 10 – 10 am - 2 pm

Southeast Farmer’s Market - Summer Outdoor Market held every Friday starting Friday, July 7 - Friday, September 1 form 3 to 8 pm at the Pine Grove Seniors.

“Meet Your Neighbours” Coffee Groups. 1 pm Mondays at the Pine Grove Seniors Club on Hwy 12 and Prevost St, South Junction. Come out for coffee, meet some new people, reconnect with your neighbours and friends – a great time to socialize and give yourself a break during your busy week.

Sprague

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

“Meet Your Neighbours” Coffee Groups. 1 pm Thursdays at the Evergreen Seniors Club at the Sprague Hall (by the railway tracks). Come out for coffee, meet some new people, reconnect

Knitting - A variety of knitwear is being created such as mittens, hats and scarves. These items are donated throughout the year to different groups to help provide comfort to those less fortunate. If you are interested in participating, come on by. Everything you need to help is supplied.

Foot Care Clinics - By appointment only. For more information, please contact Janice at 204-883-2880.

Upcoming clinic dates:

Ste Agathe – Wednesday, March 29 and Thursday, March 30.

St. Adolphe – Monday, April 3, Tuesday April 4 and Wednesday, April 5.

Ile des Chenes – Tuesday March 7 and Wednesday March 8.

Heart to Home Meals -To place your order please call 1204-816-8659 or 1-888-216-1067. Call for a menu or one up at Ritchot Senior Services. We ask you to please call

with your neighbours and friends – a great time to socialize and give yourself a break during your busy week.

Sprague Fire Department Spring Fling Fundraiser on March 18 at the Sprague Hall from 8 pm to 1 am. Only $10 per ticket.

Breast Cancer Screening Clinic, East Borderland Primary Health Care Centre (Hwy 12 & 308), Sprague from April 3-5. Call 1-855-952-4325 to book an appointment. Screening is for women 50 years and older. Limited appointments. Brought to you by CancerCare Manitoba.

St. Adolphe

Forever Young Old Time Dance - Saturday March 4, 1 -5 pm at the Community Centre Pioneer Hall (upstairs of the rink), 345 St. Adolphe, Rd. Live music entertainment provided by Mark Morisseau, 50-50 draw and door prizes. Show your support and help us plan for food by reserving your ticket early. Call Jules at 204-883-2440. Tickets are only $16 including lunch and you will be entered to win a door prize. Cash bar will be available.

St. Malo

Learn to Crochet – 4 Saturdays from March 4 – 25, 10 am – 12 pm at the Chalet Malouin. Participants must bring their own supplies. List will be provided upon registration. Contact Christine Tetrault 204-510-3600, cinqartisans@gmaol.com.

St. Pierre-Jolys Baby Sitter’s Course – Saturday, March 18. Location TBA. Cost $55. Red Cross Basic First Aid and childcare skills for ages 11-15. Register online ratriverrecreation.com.

3234 Manitoba Horse Cadets – Thursdays, 6:30 – 9 pm at the Community Hall from September to June. Cost is Free. Meet new friends, fun, adventures, leadership, citizenship, community service, drill band, orienteering, and more. Contact Captain Phil Atkinson 3234Army@cadets.gc.ca or phillip.atkinson@ cadets.gc.ca. Website 3234manitobahorse.ca.

Ste. Anne

Open Bonspiel – Friday to Sunday, March 17 – 19 at the curling club. Cost $200/team, 3 games guaranteed. Cash prizes, suppler included Saturday. 32 Team maximum. Contact Jordan 204-371-7549 to register.

Vote Kraft Hockeyville Contest – Show us what the Town of Ste. Anne means to you and your community. Let’s give our arena a chance to score big in the Kraft Hockeyville 2023 Grand Prize to host an NHL hockey game and win a $250,000 for arena upgrades. All three runner ups will receive $25,000 of arena upgrades. Vote now at hockeyville.kraftcanada.ca/#/community/townofsteanne.

Ste Genevieve

St. Patrick’s Social & Dance – Saturday, March 11, 8 pm – 1 am at the Community Centre. Wear your green accessories. There will be a Silent Auction, light lunch and much more. Cost 18 years and over $15 each.

Mini Library - Every second Tuesday of each month, Taché library holds a “mini-library” at the Community Centre from 6:30 -7:30 pm. Come check out some books, exchange and request items from the library.

Steinbach Agronomy Meeting – Thursday, March 2, at 8:30 am, Pat Porter Active Living Centre (Fireside Room). Focus on current agronomic topics to assist area farmers in the production of their crops. Speakers include MB Agriculture provincial specialists and others in the areas of fertility, weed management and soybean production. The event is free to attend. Contact Earl Bargen 204-392-2247, earl.bargen@gov.mb.ca.

IRAL Winter Fest – Friday, Sunday, March 3 – 5 at 115 PTH 12 North (Co-op Open Lot). Come enjoy the food, music, and dance a little as the entertainment across multiple shows gives you the experience that you’ve been wanting

or email Ritchot Senior Services after placing your orders and let us know you have placed an order. This will assist us in organizing volunteers for delivery of meals to you. Order your meals by: Wednesdays March 1, 15 and 29. Meals ready for pick up or delivery the following day. This service is available to all areas of the Ritchot Community including St. Adolphe, Ste Agathe, Ile des Chenes, Grande Pointe, Howden and Glenlea. There are no contracts, no minimum orders.

Coffee with Friends – Thursdays, March 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 at 10 - 11:30 am. Open to everyone. $2 for bottomless coffee and a treat. Ritchot Senior Services, 457 Main Street, St. Adolphe.

Bingo – Tuesday, March 28 from 1:30 – 3 pm at 457 Main Street, St. Adolphe. Play for fun prizes. $2 admission. You must pre register for this event.

all winter long. Cost Adult $10, Youth $5, Children (6 & under) free. Contact Neville Hamilton 204-381-0581, iralmusicartsfest@gmail.com.

Winter in the Village – Until March 8, bring your friends and family to Mennonite Heritage Village for skating, snowshoeing, kick sledding, and so much more! Be enchanted by the village light show, skate along Main Street or on the ice rink. Explore the grounds via snowshoe or sled. End off the night with some complimentary hot chocolate. Warming hut will be open for visitors. Sunday and Monday closed, Tuesday – Thursday 9 am – 5 pm, Friday and Saturday 12 – 8 pm. Admission Adult/$6 and Senior (65+) $5, Student (13-22) $5, Child (6-13) $3, 5 & Under free.

Women, Wine & Theatre – Friday, March 10, 7:30 – 9:30 pm at the Pat Porter Centre. A fundraiser for Agape House. Wine, hor d’oeuvres, silent auction, 50/50 with performers Ruth Morris, Poetry Holly Ammerman, Keynote speaker Sadie Lavoie, Theatre Miracle, Poetry Wanda Wilson, storyteller musician and Shelley Marshall guitarist, Karly Koop Emcee. Tickets $25. Contact events@agapehouse.ca, 204-326-6062.

Steinbach & Area Garden Club – Monday, March 13, 7 – 9 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village, Hwy 12. France in September with Linda Dietrick will make a presentation about her tour of the gardens in France that she took with Sara Williams in September, 2022. Linda is a Master Gardener , retired University of Winnipeg Professor and was the Editor of the Prairie Garden book a couple of years ago. Seed and propagated plant exchange will be happening as well. Annual Membership- Individual $20; Family $30. Contact sagcnewsletter@gmail.com.

Ukrainian Settlement Support Donation Drop Off – Tuesdays, March 7 and March 21 from 5 - 8 pm at Southland Church. Specific areas of need for donation: furniture, mattresses and box springs, bedding, clothing for men, women and children of all ages, coats and jackets (all seasons), shoes/ boots, other household items for Ukrainian families. Drop-off at marked storage units in the parking lot; use west entrance, closest to Bush Farm Road. If you have to donate outside of the defined dates/ times, please ensure to clearly label “Ukraine” on the items and they will be designated for the Ukraine relief initiative. Astronomy & Group Walks – Fourth Tuesday of the month until March, 8 – 9:40 pm with Chris Desrochers. Meet at the L.A. Barkman Park Gazebo. Walk along Bush Farm Tail, around Abe’s Hill, and observe sights of the night sky, using telescopes at the conclusion of the walk. Dress for the weather and for walking, bring binoculars and questions. February 28 (sights visible: Mars, Jupiter, Venus, & Half Moon) and March 28 (sights visible: Mars, Venus, & Crescent Moon).To register, email smclean@jakeepplibrary.com or mredekopp@jakeepplibrary.com. If the sky is unclear and weather is too poor, the hosts will make the decision to cancel 1-2 hours before the event and will send out an email to participants to let them know.

Chase the Ace Fundraiser - Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue – On Mondays at Smitty’s Restaurant. Tickets on sale 6 – 8 pm, draw at 8:15 pm. 2 tickets for $5.Come out and try to win cash. The jackpot goes up weekly until the Ace is drawn! Winning ticket receives 10% of ticket sales or 50% of sales if Ace is drawn.

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

Al-Anon - Monday 7:30 pm Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre back door, downstairs. For information call Lloyd 204-326-4365.

Creative Writers Club - Second Wednesday every month at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Library, 255 Elmdale St. This is not a class but rather a writing share group where we hope to foster and

Lunch & Learn – Tuesday, February 21 at10 am, 457 Main Street, St. Adolphe. Join us in welcoming special guest Carefree Concierge offering tips on downsizing, then carefully pack and move your belongings. They can help confirm appointments with cable, internet, and phone companies to ensure services are transferred to your new home. They can also arrange to have your previous home cleaned and ready for resale. Stay after for bowl of soup and chat with friends. You must pre register for this event.

New Exercise Program: Mondays in March, 9:15 - 10 am at Richot Senior Services, 457 Main Street St. It’s All About the Hips. A yoga inspired workout that focuses on strength, balance and flexibility. Balance Bars and or chairs will be used to assist with balance and stability. Please bring your own yoga mat, water, and a small towel. Cost: $32. Drop-in fee of $10 if space allows. You must pre register for this activity.

encourage our participants’ love of writing. Feel free to bring 5 pages of writing (single sided, double spaced) to share with the group. Our evening will begin with an ice breaker and then move into share time. Coffee and tea will be served. Contact Madison Redekopp email mredekopp@jakeepplibrary.com.

Steinbach Professional Development Toastmasters Club – On Thursdays at 9:46 am, Eastman Education Centre, 385 Loewen Blvd. How can a person get the message across well, keep meeting participants engaged, and fully use the capabilities of videoconferencing platforms? What works? What doesn’t? What is the etiquette expected? Join us in person or by zoom on 12 pm every Wednesday. All guests are welcome! Contact Mark Hiebert 204-371-5197, email mhiebert@barkmanconcrete.com.

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

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

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

Steinbach & Area Lions Club - Meets second and fourth Tuesday of the month, 6:30 pm, South East Helping Hands. Contact 204-326-2313.

Tolstoi

Ukrainian Hall Easter Bake and Craft Sale - Saturday, March 2 from 10 am - 2 pm at the community hall.

Vita Community Library Night - Thursday, March 2, 4 pm at the Shevchenko School. All community residents are invited to sign up for a library card and check out books from 4 -6:30 pm. Books can be returned anytime during the day or at the school front office.

Battle of the Sexes Bonspiel – Friday to Sunday, March 24 -26 at the curling club. $180/team. All male or all female, 3 games guaranteed, includes dinner on Saturday. $500 prize 1st place based on 24 teams. Contact Jerry 204-425-309 to register.

Woodridge

Vintage Sled Show ‘n’ Shine and Ride! Saturday, March 4 at the Woodridge Community Center. Everyone is welcome! 20mile ride on a non-designated groomed trail (Woodridge to Sandilands Park). $10 entry fee includes lunch (hotdog, drink, cookies). Pancake breakfast is available. Registration from 8:30 am to 10 am. Net proceeds go to Never Alone Cancer Foundation. Sponsored by the Southeast Snoriders. For more information email Dave at dboutang@mts.net.

Vassar

Vassar and Area Minor Baseball registration is open until April 4th. Register at vassarbaseball@hotmail.com. There is a level for everyone age 4 – 18. It is very important that players register by this date to confirm the number of players and teams we have. 9U - 18U Players/Coaches/Managers will have to register through RAMP once teams are confirmed.

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

Forever Young Old Time Spring Dance - Saturday March 4, 1 – 5 pm, at the Pioneer Hall (upstairs of the rink), 345 St. Adolphe Rd. Live music entertainment provided by Mark Morisseau, 50-50 draw and door prizes. Show your support and help us to plan for food by reserving your ticket early. Tickets $16 including lunch and you will be entered to win a door prize. Cash bar will be available. Call Jules at 204-883-2440.

Men’s Shed Ritchot/Howden - Wednesday March 1, 1-3 pm, Howden Community Centre 1078 Red River Dr. Welcoming, place for friendship, camaraderie and fun. For men to socialize, take part in activities and learn something new. Learn through doing stuff together. Come have a coffee, tea. Contact howdencc@gmail.com.

Ritchot Senior Services is at 457 Main Street, St. Adolphe. (204) 883-2880 or email ritchotseniors@mymts.net

Dawson Trail Dispatch

10th Grader Rising Star in Basketball

By Angelique Forest

One Ile Des Chenes student is already making a name for himself on the court racking up impressive statistics as he strives to perfect his skills in basketball.

Only in grade 10, Stellan Chammartin is determined to be a basketball star and has developed a laser focus on his dream.

Chammartin has already racked up an impressive resume of accomplishments in the sport. He is a 2time provincial basketball champion (2021-2022), and played junior varsity as MVP and all-star during the same season. He was also the Zone 13 varsity all-star (2021-2022) and selected to be on the varsity boys basketball all-Manitoba 2nd team (2021-2022). Additionally, he was also selected to the 2022 U15 male provincial basketball team to represent Manitoba at the Canadian national championships.

“I believe that my success in the sport comes from my hard work, passion, and love for the game itself, as well as the support and motivation I receive from my family, friends, and teammates,” said Chammartin. Chammartin is currently the scor-

ing record holder for his school, Ecole/College Gabrielle-Roy, with 80 points scored in a single game in junior varsity, and 71 points scored in varsity for a single game as well. He has also been named MHSAA athlete of the week (2022-2023), had numerous varsity all-star selections. He was the Peg City Club Champion (2021-2022) and the Club Provincial Basketball Champion (2021-2022).

Chammartin admits his history with the game is to blame for his focus.

“I’ve loved the game of basketball for as long as I can remember. I first picked up a basketball at the age of 4 and was influenced and inspired by my father who’s played for most of his life,” he said. “[He] was the reason I played in the first place, as well as my brother who also took after him. Both of them inspired and pushed me then, and still to this day continue to do so.”

The high school student has a goal to continue winning more provincial championships with his school teams and to compete at a high level with his club team for the short term.

As for his future, Chammartin

hopes to continue to develop his skills to play basketball at the college or university level.

“What motivates me is the desire to get better and improve my game every day, so I can, one day, play at the highest level I can,” explained Chammartin. “Another motivator is my brother… seeing his success and improvement at the college level inspires me to work harder, and become the best player I can be.”

This rising star admits that there are so many influences around him that have helped him achieve his success thus far.

“First of all I’d like to thank God, for all my blessings which make my success possible,” he said. “Also my mom for her love and support, my dad for coaching, and guiding me my whole life and pushing me to be the best I can be, on and off the court, and always believing in me no matter what.”

He also is grateful for his brother, who is a major supporter and motivates him to be his best. Chammartin also credits his many coaches who have helped him excel and all his teammates for being there through it all together.

Stellan Chammartin

Council Says No to Fund Request by Animal Rescue Group, But Does Not Close the Door on Future Requests

By Dan Guetre

The Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue (SAAR), as part of its fundraising effort, has reached out to most rural municipal councils with the hope of soliciting operational funding support.

While one municipal council defeated a request of support for $800, they want to assure the group that a different decision

could be made in the future.

RM of Piney CAO Martin Van Osch confirmed that SAAR has approached council in the past for financial support.

“At this time, Council has determined that the strategic priority is to focus on the betterment of the lives of our residents,” said Van Osch. “There is limited funding available for supporting non-prof -

it organizations, and moving funds from initiatives such as STARS or Katie’s Cottage could have a detrimental impact to these valuable services that support residents of the RM of Piney.”

Van Osch assures that all non-profit organizations are key to the “betterment of southeast Manitoba.”

“It is a difficult decision for Council to debate and determine

which organizations provide more impact for residents over other programs,” explained Van Osch. “Each program carries its merit and is deserving of support.”

“Unfortunately, funding is always limited and decisions are needed,” he added. “Council is appreciative of the work that many of the non-profit organizations undertake.”

He wanted to clarify that what is a “no” today, may not be a “no” in the future.

“Strategic priorities may change in the future and Council would certainly consider the question again in future years, this year’s decision not to support SAAR doesn’t mean that a different decision wouldn’t be considered with subsequent years,” he said.

What happens to people after they die? Some believe that is the end. They are either buried or cremated and they are no more. Others believe in reincarnation and think they may return to earth as an animal or a bug. There are several other beliefs, but it really doesn’t matter what theories are out there; what really matters is the truth. The God of Heaven has given us a complete guide Book called the Bible. John 17:17 calls this Book “truth”. This is not “truth” from your point of view or mine; it is Almighty God’s truth. It is given as a standard to follow and obey, not as a book to be critiqued, altered or rejected.

So what does the Bible say happens to people when they die? John 5:28,29 says, “Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his (God’s) voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.”

People end up with eternal life or eternal damnation. Hebrews 9:27 says, “And it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” A person only lives once upon earth and when they die, there is a judgment of God that renders either eternal life or eternal damnation to that person. That judgment is based on a decision the person made during their time on earth.

The Bible tells us all have sinned and come short of God’s standard. Because of this everyone deserves eternal damnation, but God has provided a solution for all people of the world. God sent His Son to this earth 2,000 years ago and He willingly gave up His life and died in our place. Now the gift of eternal life is freely offered to “whosoever will.” if you willingly accept Christ’s payment for your sins, then all your sin is put on Christ and you will be set free and given eternal life.

Have you made that decision in your life yet? The Bible says our life is like a vapour. It won’t last forever, so now is the time to have all your sin taken care of. Then you can look forward to eternal life one day in Heaven, and not eternal damnation in hell. I trust you will make a wise decision. If you have honest questions, pray and ask the God of Heaven which decision you should make.

Registration Open for Spring Break Out Camps

The Steinbach Arts Council’s Spring Break Out Camp is now open for registration. Talented instructors and staff are eager to welcome kids ages 5-8 and 9-12 with a fun-filled and creative experience that they won’t soon forget. With over 20 years of camp programming at the Steinbach Arts Council, kids are sure to love every minute of their spring break at SBOC.

Tonya Godee, SAC’s Community Programming Coordinator and Weaving Specialist is excited to bring back the fibre art to Spring Break Out Camp.

“One of the great things about our Spring Break Out Camp is that we offer a wide range of visual and performing arts to our campers,” said Godee. “Last year, we brought weaving to the camp for the first time, and it was a huge hit. This year, we will bring back the previous favourites, but we will also be bringing new arts experiences to our campers. The camp teaches new creative skills to our students that we hope they will continue in the future as well as making some new friendships.”

The camp will offer a variety of activities in theatre, music, science, culture, visual arts, and so much more will be taught by some of Steinbach’s best specialists and SAC’s camp staff.

The camp will be held at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre for a full week, from March 27 to 31.

Registration is now open. Spring breakout camp fees are $140 for Members and $160 for Non-members. For more information and to register visit steinbacharts.ca.

Upcoming Concerts:

Cathy Daniel and Darryl Friesen

– Classical Voice and Piano on Friday, March 17, 7:30 pm, Grace Mennonite Church.

Jayme Giesbrecht Combo – March 24, 7:30 pm, SCU Studio at the Steinbach Arts Council. Studio Series concerts include light refreshments and a chance to meet the artists. For more information, visit SteinbachArts.ca or call 204346-1077.

Stained-Glass Workshop:

Workshops on Friday, May 26, and Saturday, May 27. Interested in learning a new skill this spring? Come for one or come for both, we’d love to see you there! Visit steinbacharts.ca to learn more.

Gala: Friday, May 5, save the date for SAC Fundraising Gala in person at the Friedensfeld Community Hall. Take part in all your favourites, like the online auction, Fine Art Auction, Jewellery Tombola, and enjoy an evening of entertainment, fine dining, and exquisite wine, all in support of your local Arts Charity. Celebrate over 4 decades of Arts and Culture in our community by reserving your table today. Call 204-346-1077 or visit steinbacharts.ca for more information.

Volunteer at SAC: We are looking for people who are like-minded and love the arts as much as we do. As a non-profit organization, we would not have

been able to thrive without volunteers who share their time, talent, and service. The Steinbach Arts Council would love to have you be part of our team.

Volunteering is a great way to build your resume, network and be part of this vibrant community. We have opportunities to help in putting up our promotional flyers, setting up for events, theatre stage production, administrative work, and many more. We are willing to train and introduce you to what our organization does. In return for your participation, we provide a volunteer certificate and a welcome packet. Put your name on our volunteer list today! Go to steinbacharts.ca/volunteer.

Fusion Musical Theatre Presents “Moana” Live

The Steinbach Arts Council’s FUSION Musical Theatre Group is proud to present to the community their live musical performance, Disney’s Moana! Directed by Gabriela Gallo, the talented FUSION students will perform three shows in the SRSS Theatre located in the Steinbach Regional Secondary School on Saturday, March 18 at 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm and Sunday, March 19 at 1:30 pm.

“We’ve been excited to be able

to grow our musical theatre program this year, allowing us to work with more students than ever. These productions are amazing to watch for so many reasons; acting, singing, dance FUSION students get a chance to work on all those skills, while bringing a show like MOANA to life,” said David Klassen, Executive Director of Steinbach Arts Council (SAC). “This is one you won’t want to miss.”

SAC invites all families, friends,

The Decision for Eternal Life Church Solicits Funds for Hefty Fines

By Dan Guetre

The Church of God Restoration is again in the spotlight, but this time not for ignoring public health orders issued by the province. They have started a fundraising campaign on the Christian based fundraising platform givesendgo to pay for the fines imposed on them through the courts for flouting the rules that were set in place.

“We recently faced the courts for this decision and were fined $30,000. In addition, several members of the church have been fined personally,” read the post on the site. “The charges imposed on Tobias Tissen alone amounts to $27,115. All of the fines combined total $74,561.”

Tissen, the pastor of the church, repeatedly violated the health orders and was even arrested by the RCMP shortly after he tried going in hiding. Multiple rounds in court went against the pastor and his church resulting in the fines.

“In the past, many have expressed

their support and desire to contribute financially to our stand,” the post continued. “We have decided to make this available for anyone who would wish to contribute. We are thankful for all the friends we have made and all the encourage-

and Disney fans to gather to join their favourite characters as they seek to restore the heart of Ta Fiti. Featuring classic Disney titles such as How Far I’ll Go, Shiny and You’re Welcome, this show will thrill all ages, said Klassen.

Tickets are $8 per seat and are currently on sale in person at the Steinbach Arts Council, over the phone at 204-346-1077, or online at SteinbachArts.ca. Seats are limited, so purchase your tickets today.

ment and support we have received during these difficult years!”

The goal of the online campaign is to raise the entire $74,561. As of February 21, less than $3,000 has been pledged, a figure that has been stagnant for about a week.

Tobias Tissen the pastor of the church, repeatedly violated the health orders and was even arrested by the RCMP shortly after he tried going in hiding. File photo

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch March 2023

Points of Light in the Universe

In Your Community

Pat Porter Active Living Centre (Serving Seniors Inc.) is a non-profit organization that provides programs, activities and services for seniors and members of the community. Seniors are the foundation of our community and our goal is to keep them a part of it for as long as possible. Read on to find out about everything we offer and how we can help you.

Check out our Website for Programs & Events – patporteralc.com. Our Centre offers a great variety of events and programming weekly. Ranging from Fitness Programs to Recreational and Social Programs, there is something for everyone!

Current Programs

Cost is $2.00 for members and $4.00 for non-members. * Programs are subject to change* Please check daily signup for updated hours.

Coffee Corner: Monday – Friday, 10 am -12 pm.

Pickleball: Monday – Friday, 9 - 10:3 0am.

Beginner Pickleball: Monday – Friday, 10:30 am- 12 pm, Tuesday 2 - 3:30 pm, Wednesday 1 - 3 pm (1 court) and 4 – 6 pm, Friday 1 - 3:30 pm.

Evening Pickleball: Monday, 7:30 – 9:30 pm.

Badminton: Monday – Friday, 12 -1 pm.

Registration required at patporteralc.com.

Fitness Classes

Morning Walking: Monday – Friday, 8:30 – 9 am.

Laughter Yoga: Monday, 1 - 2 pm.

Fitness Drumming: Tuesday, 1 - 1:45 pm.

Pace: Wednesday, 1 - 1:45 pm.

Floor Curling: Wednesday, 1 - 3:30 pm.

Yoga with Carrie: Friday, 9 – 10:30 am.

Cards: Card games played Monday to Friday from 1 - 4 pm.

Old Time Country Jam: Wednesday, 7 - 9 pm.

Craft Corner: Friday 1 - 3 pm.

Choir: Wednesday, 10 - 11:30 am.

Square Dancing: Tuesday 7:15 pm – 9:15 pm. New fee $5 for everyone.

Steinbach Rockin’ Rollers

Sunday 5 - 7 pm. A fun new roller-skating program is now being offered at the Centre. All skill levels and ages welcome, and no pre-registration required. Cost $5 ($3 for Pat Porter members). Please bring your own roller skates. Registration required at patporteralc.com.

Special Events

Join us on St. Patrick’s Day Friday, March 17 for a fun twist to our Coffee Corner, “Irish Coffee Corner”. Enjoy complimentary specialty coffee, and baked treats. Don’t forget to wear your green. Wherever you go, whatever you do. May the luck of the Irish be there with you.

Annual Fundraiser Banquet

Thursday, March 25. Wine & Cocktails at 5, Dinner at 6 pm. Featuring Eastman Male Choir & Corny Rempel. Tickets $60 ($40 tax deductible receipt). 50/50, Silent Auction and Raffle Prizes.

Lunch and Learn

De-prescribing Medications: Monday, March 6, from 12 – 1 pm. Make sure your medication is helping you. Learn how to start a conversation with your doctor or pharmacist about your medications. Speaker Audrey Harder.

Home Care & Long Term Care: Thursday, March 16, from 12 – 1 pm. Want to learn more about Home Care and Long Term Care? Join Meg, Regional Coordinator for the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba to learn about who to contact, how Home Care works, what the panel process is for Long Term Care, when to assess when a person is ready for long term care.

Bring your lunch or order from our kitchen when registering. Kitchen orders must be placed in advance with a cost of $8. Limited space available. Pre register by calling 204-320-4600.

Painting with local artist Doug Enns

Tuesday, March 21, 1:30 - 4 pm. Cost: $20 Members and $30 Non– Members. All supplies included. Limited space available. Pre register by calling 204-320-4600.

Pancake Breakfast

Thursday, March 30 from 9:30 – 11 am. $8/person. Enjoy a stack of pancakes and 2 sausages. All proceeds going to the Steinbach Meals on Wheels Program.

Monthly Support Groups offered at The Centre Steinbach Brain Injury Support Group - Last Monday of each month, 7 - 8:30 pm. Please contact Donna or Gregg Schipper 204-326-9614.

Band of Colours+: 2SLGBTQ+ Support Group. Every Friday of the month, from 6 -9 pm. Contact Angelica Brunger 204-905-4949.

Parkinson’s Support Group - People Living with Parkinson’s Support Group. Every other Thursday of the month (October 20) from 1:30 -3 pm.

Rentals

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

Meals on Wheels

A healthy, warm and delicious meal cooked fresh daily and delivered to your door. We have two Meals on Wheels programs running out of Steinbach and Grunthal. Meals may be purchased for $8 for delivery (residents of Steinbach & Grunthal) or pickup. A meal includes soup, a main dish, sides and dessert. Please call 204-320-4600 with any questions or to order a meal. To receive a same day meal, you must call before 9 am.

Steinbach’s Accessible Transit

Need a ride to an appointment or other errand? Steinbach Accessible transit can get you there! This service is available to residents of Steinbach. Please visit our website www.patporteralc.com for a full price list. Services are available Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm. To book a ride, call 204-326-4055. If your call is not answered, leave a message with the answering service. Appointments must be booked in advance to ensure availability.

Stay on the Right Track When Snowmobiling

Its winter in Manitoba and that means another season of outdoor fun for snowmobile enthusiasts. But just as you wouldn’t hit the trails without your helmet and other essential gear; follow these guidelines to help you get home safely.

- Reduce your speed around utility poles. Guy wires that anchor utility poles have yellow, reflective covers, so they’re easily seen, but sometimes the covers become damaged or hidden by drifting snow. Darkness, fog, or blowing snow can also make them difficult to spot.

- Steer clear of downed poles and power lines. A fallen power line can energize nearby objects. Stay at least 10 metres away from the area and report the damage to Manitoba Hydro at 1888-MBHYDRO or 911.

- If someone does contact a downed power line, either directly

or with their machine, don’t touch them or any objects around them. Call 911.

- Stay off the ice near hydroelectric dams and generating stations. The ice around these areas can be thin and unstable. Avoid sledding near substations and other hydroelectric facilities.

- Snow-covered rocks, barbed-wire fences, or other hazards can be present along unmarked terrain or private property.

- Plan your route before heading out.

- Becoming disoriented or lost is much more likely to happen at night or on a large frozen lake. Ride with people familiar with the area, and always tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to be back.

Visit hydro.mb.ca/safety for more information.

Philippians 2: 1418… 14) Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15) so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.”

Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16) as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labour in vain. 17) But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18) So you too should be glad and rejoice with me. (NIV)

I like the idea of points of light. It is an idea that what we do matters. Our contribution in life makes a difference… it makes a difference to us, and it makes a difference to others. Paul is not talking about volunteering, but he is talking about our lives making a difference. He refers to the fact that we are to shine like stars in the universe. Our lives are to have influence. Our lives are to count.

All of us like to think that our life counts. We want our trip through this earthly existence to matter. Sometimes we do not really know whether our lives really matter like we want them too. In fact, one of the greatest pursuits in our society today is the search for meaning. Everyone wants to believe that she or he has a real purpose that can be fulfilled.

We are to shine with the reflected glory of God. The light of his glory has shined on us, and now we reflect that light to others. We glow in the dark night as a point of light that gives others hope. Indeed, our highest honour is to bear his name as children of God and to reflect his image as sons and daughters. We have been born again. We are now his children, and we bear his name. We are Christians. Called by the family name. And we also bear the family image. In fact, the longer we service Christ the more we are to resemble him.

Paul says we are to do everything without complaining or arguing… What an incredible command! Is he serious? Does he really expect me to do everything without complaining or arguing, everything? Why, it cannot be done. When I complain, I reveal a lack of trust, and when I argue, I reveal a rebellious spirit. What I need is a check up from the neck up, and maybe a little heart surgery might also be helpful. In other words, I need to make sure that my attitude is right before God if I want to shine before a watching world. What do we want the world to see? My attitude should reveal faith. It should reveal hope. It should reveal love. The world is watching.

Paul lived his life this way. He was now in prison writing to these Christian at Philippe. He did not know exactly how his case would turn out, but he was not complaining. Throughout the book of Philippians, a common theme emerges. It is joy and rejoicing in the Lord. The message is clear… Jesus makes a difference. He certainly had in Paul’s life. Paul was more concerned about them than he was about himself. Although he could be executed, he told them not to worry about him, but to rejoice with him. What was important to him was that his life had made a difference in them. He wanted them to shine.

God wants us to shine. He wants us to be a point of light. He wants us to be a testimony to his power to transform a human life. He wants us to be effective in the lives of other people by how we think and how we live. He wants us to be different. He wants us to live out what we believe and to share the good news with others. He wants us to shine. And by his grace we shall… To God be the glory great things He has done.

Would you pray this prayer with me? “Lord Jesus, come into my heart. Forgive my sins. I want my life to change. My thoughts and my attitude need to change. I do not have the peace in my heart that I yearn for. I want that peace, joy and happiness that fulfills my heart’s desire. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will honour Your Name. Amen.”

RCMP FILES

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

Shoplifters Caught on Camera

On February 17 the Steinbach RCMP received a report of shoplifting from the Sobeys grocery store. At approximately 5:45 pm an unknown male and female left Sobeys with 2 baskets full of groceries, valued at approximately $150.

Sobeys surveillance was able to provide photographs of the thieves as well as the getaway vehicle. The thieves left through the front doors of the building and got into the vehicle that was parked in front of the building. The license plate of the vehicle was covered by snow and dirt and unreadable.

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

Group

Steinbach RCMP are looking for information in connection to a theft of appliances at Solomon’s in Steinbach involving several suspects. Overnight on of December 31, a group of 4 individuals with a Red GMS Sierra with an Ontario plate not belonging to the vehicle broke into several trailers and stole appliances.

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

Co-Op Fuel Account Fraudulently Used

On August 24 a male attended the East End Co-op in a stolen truck (since recovered) and fraudulently charged fuel to a local business. On August 26, the same male attended the Brandt St. Co-op in the same stolen truck and fraudulently charged fuel to the same local business. Police also believe that this same individual attended the Mitchell Co-op on August 30 and again obtained fuel charging it to the local business. If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

On February 10 at around 5 pm, Sprague RCMP received a report of a snowmobile collision on a groomed trail near Woodridge. When officers arrived at the scene, a 52-year-old male from Winnipeg was receiving emergency medical care. He was pronounced deceased on scene.

Initial investigation indicates the male was riding in a group of three and was bringing up the rear, when he hit two bumps in the trail very close together, losing control of the machine and being thrown from the vehicle. Speed is being considered as a factor in the collision. Alcohol was not involved.

Manitoba RCMP Investigating Collision Involving Winnipeg On-Duty Officers

On January 31, at approximately 5:25 pm, Steinbach and Falcon Beach RCMP received a report of a motor vehicle collision on Highway 1, near Prawda, in the RM of Reynolds.

Initial investigation has determined that a vehicle was travelling westbound on Highway 1, when a second vehicle entered the highway from a parked position, resulting in a collision.

The 22-year-old male driver of the westbound vehicle, from Alberta, was transported to local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The second vehicle contained two on-duty Winnipeg Police Service officers. They were transported to Winnipeg hospital, where they were treated for injuries sustained and released.

The collision was reported to the Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba, which has determined they will take a monitoring role in the investigation.

Arrest Made for Radio Station Break-In

On January 30 at 10 pm, Steinbach RCMP were dispatched to a breakin at the radio business complex in Steinbach.

The complainant and property rep reported that a male had broken in and was now trying to leave on foot. Police located the male at a nearby business. He was arrested as a result of displaying signs of being under the influence of drugs. While lodging the male, police received another call that there was a second male who had broken into the business com plex and was still inside.

The male was located on the third floor of the building. When po lice attempted to arrest him, the male ran down the staircase which was blocked at the bottom floor. Once at the bottom floor, police observed that he was holding a box cutter to his wrist. Police responded accord ingly and the male was eventually placed under arrest and escorted to the Steinbach RCMP Detachment for lodging. The accused was also displaying signs of being under the influence of drugs.

Fraser Schmidt (38) of Winnipeg, Manitoba has been charged and re manded into custody and to appeared in court a couple of days later for Possession of Weapon for Dangerous purpose x2; Break and Enter with Intent; Resist/Obstruct peace officer x2; Fail to comply with Probation Order x2 and Fail to comply with release order condition x 3.

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch March 2023

Police Locate Missing Woman and Arrest Wanted Male

On February 25 at approximately 2:20 pm, the Winnipeg Police Service safely located Breanna Hudson at a residence in Winnipeg. Hudson had been reported missing to the St. Pierre RCMP on February 16. According to the RCMP, in the early morning she had left a residence with a 24-year-old male identified as Shaquille MacFarlane. MacFarlane had warrants for his arrest for uttering threats against a person, assault, extortion and obstruction of justice. Additionally, he was wanted on a Canada-wide warrant for breaching his bail conditions. Macfarlane was also located at the same residence. He was arrested without incident and taken into custody.

The RCMP wishes to thank the Winnipeg Police Service and the public for their assistance.

The investigation continues.

Stored Boat and Trailer Stolen from Zhoda Area

Steinbach RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in locating a stolen boat with trailer.

The theft occurred sometimes between the dates of September 24, 2022 and February 24, 2023. The boat and trailer had been stored on a property in the Zhoda area.

The boat is described as a white, 15 foot, fiber glass, outboard boat. The boat had an older model 50 horse power Rainbow boat motor attached.

The trailer is described as a white homemade utility trailer with plate 945EU. Also stored in the boat was a frame for a portable garage.

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

RCMP Called to Disturbance at Days Inn

In the early hours of Monday, February 13 Steinbach RCMP received a call from a distraught male and a subsequent call from the Days Inn of a disturbance in one of the rooms. Upon arrival, RCMP tried to gain entry into the room however the male had barricaded the door. While trying to establish communication, RCMP officers smelled that something had begun to burn. The hotel was evacuated and RCMP were able to make entry through an outside window and took a male into custody.

Steinbach Fire and EMS were called to the scene to assist. The male was transported to Bethesda Hospital with minor injuries. Two RCMP Officers were also treated for minor injuries and released. The 22 year-old male from the RM of Tache is facing charges of arson, mischief over $5,000 and resisting arrest.

Fuel Scammer Targets Co-Op

On October 23, 2022, RCMP received a report of theft of fuel from the East End Co-Op in Steinbach. An unknown male attempted to have his fuel charged to a local business.

When asked to provide credentials to prove association to the business, the man became upset and drove away without paying. In consultation with the local business it was determined that the man was not an employee or authorized user of their account.

RCMP are requesting assistance in identifying the individual in question.

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

De Salaberry Returns Bonds Even Though Developers Failed to Complete Requests

By Dan Guetre

At first glance, when the RM of De Salaberry council’s approval to refund two bonds of $15,000 each to developers who failed to comply with the conditional approval written in the development agreement, residents could ask what’s up with that?

That’s exactly what the council decided to do but according to the CAO, the part of the development agreement to install and create shelterbelts was attempted over the years but would not take and a logical course of action led them to release the bonds.

“Attempts had been made to install the shelterbelts many years before but the soil and ground quality did not suffice to successfully grow the shelterbelts,” explained RM of De Salaberry CAO Denise parent. “Shelterbelts require maintenance for a few years when they are first planted to ensure success. Shelterbelts had been planted though were not as successful as anticipated.”

Council added that a significant amount of time had passed between the Development Agreement execution and present day.

“One would argue that too much time had passed and the Agreement became unenforceable even though attempts had been made to rectify the issue,” added Parent.

According to Parent, the estimated cost to install each shelterbelt in present day would be closer to $40,000.

“Therefore, if the municipality did the work themselves, they would have a shortfall of at least $25,000 per operation,” she said. “It would be difficult to claw this back from the owners as this added cost would not be required to be paid under the Development Agreement.”

She explained that enforcing a Development Agreement with all risks involved would cost the municipality a significant amount of time and funds with doubtful guarantee that the Municipality would be successful.

Maintain Your Home for Everyone’s Safety this Winter

Manitoba Hydro crews work through extreme conditions to ensure you have reliable electric and natural gas service throughout the colder months. But you can help them access our equipment safely and quickly by:

- Clearing snow from your walkway and driveway.

- Not shovelling or blowing snow onto a padmount transformer.

- Removing ice and snow from your natural gas meter.

- Reporting a power outage.

It can be challenging for meter readers to navigate piles of snow and icy walkways to do their job. Please keep your driveway, walkway, and steps free of ice and snow, and maintain a clear path to your natural gas and electric meters.

Even though your natural gas meter and pressure regulator can withstand extreme winter weather, snow and ice on the equipment can create a safety hazard. Buildup on the regulator can block the vent and allow excess gas pressure into your home.

Accumulated snow and ice can damage the meter piping and result in a gas leak. Gently brush the snow around your gas meter and regulator with a broom or by hand. Don’t shovel or use a snow blower around your meter. If you can’t remove the snow or ice yourself, call Manitoba Hydro at 1-888-624-9376.

Power outages can result from fallen trees or an accumulation of ice on power lines. If your power goes out, report it using your smartphone at hydro.mb.ca/outage. To help us assign a crew to the correct location, provide a phone number where you can be contacted and linked to your Manitoba Hydro account.

If you see a downed power line, keep yourself and others at least 10 metres away and call 911 immediately – it poses a public safety risk. Our emergency number is 1-888-624-9376 (1-888 MBHYDRO) to alert our staff and deploy a crew.

Visit hydro.mb.ca/safety for more information.

Introduction to Keeping Backyard Chickens - Part 1

By Leah Bouchard

Reasons abound to keep backyard chickens – it might be for fun, food security, tick control or producing fresh eggs or meat on a budget. My husband and I have been raising meat birds and keeping laying hens for years, and I can’t imagine having my families’ eggs supplied another way.

If you’ve never done it, making the leap may seem intimidating. The good news is you don’t have to be an experienced farmer to keep a few chickens. As long as you understand the basics, have the ability to offer the chickens adequate feed, safe, ventilated housing, and are willing to put in the effort, you can learn as you go, and it can be a rewarding learning experience to take on as a family.

Before you start, ensure you live in an area where you can keep poultry and your neighbours are on board with you doing it. You may want to check with your municipality and/or talk to neighbours that live close-by.

Choosing your chickens

Do you primarily want to keep chickens for eggs or meat? That is the first question you need to answer, and you can narrow your search from there. Research breeds to find out pros and cons of each. Heritage breeds tend to be better foragers and more resistant to disease, but their production (of eggs or meat) won’t be as high as modern breeds. Egg layers can be purchased from neighbouring farmers, or even on kijiji, but if you’re raising meat chickens,

you’ll have to buy the chicks from a hatchery or dealer and raise them from day one. Check out local feed stores, as they often bring in chicks from local hatcheries. (Fehrway

Feeds in Ridgeville or Horizon Livestock in Steinbach are two options.)

Starting chicks is probably the most challenging part of keeping backyard chickens and I will discuss how to start them next month in Introduction to Keeping Backyard Chickens

Part 2.

Housing

Summer can be a good time to try out keeping poultry because housing requirements may be more manageable. First off, the chickens need shade and a location that can be secure from predators. Meat chickens require quite a well-ventilated place during the summer as they generally don’t handle heat very well. Laying hens will need comfortable laying boxes with clean straw or shavings where they can lay eggs.

Some predators are quite small and can squeeze through small openings. Overhead protection from birds might also be a consideration. At one point, my eggs were mysteriously disappearing, and we had to observe the chicken pen all day to discover a raven was raiding the laying boxes to steal the eggs.

I enjoy allowing my chickens to forage and roam free around the yard but again, if you do this, make sure to keep them in a safe enclosed area and count them every night. (You won’t

see much more than a little pile of feathers if one of them was nabbed.) And you may need to change up the routine, so the predator doesn’t make your chickens a regular source of food. You’ll also have to keep a close eye on the garden. I generally let them forage around the yard only until my garden starts coming up in May.

If you keep chickens over the winter, you will need an insulated coop that can be kept above freezing. Good ventilation to maintain air quality is probably the most important factor. Generally, the rule is at least foursquare feet per chicken, so a 10 by 10 coop could fit 25 birds. Cleaning out the coop on a regular basis is also important. Clean straw or shavings make comfortable bedding.

Feed

You can purchase specially prepared feed mixes for starting chicks, growing meat birds, or nourishing your laying hens from local feed stores. We have chosen to mix our own feed. If you make up your own, keep in mind that you will need to add in minerals to make sure the chickens are getting what they need. Adequate protein is extremely important, especially for laying hens. You may want to talk to a feed consultant to come up with the right formula, so you don’t run into health problems later on.

Chickens can also eat many garden and household food scraps. If they are kept in an outdoor area, they will

eat plenty of bugs and seeds. I love when the egg yolks turn bright yellow in spring, reflecting the variety the chickens are foraging! You may also let them into the garden after you’ve cleaned it out in fall to help clean up weeds and seeds. (And fertilize it for next year) Be aware that scraps and seeds can be a wonderful supplement to the chicken’s diet, but prepared feed should be supplied to them at all times.

Other considerations

Keep a close eye on your flock and notice and deal with any health issues before they become a problem. Call a vet if something appears off. Remember to change or wash your boots if you go to a neighbour’s farm to make sure you don’t spread disease.

At the end of the season, we have a tradition of getting together with family and neighbours for a chicken butcher day. You may want to learn how to butcher your own chickens or make an appointment at a local butcher. Keep in mind that butchers are usually extremely busy, so make sure to book the appointment early.

Meat chickens should be butchered between six and 12 weeks. Depending on your feed and the breed, they can get large quickly, so don’t prolong the butcher date if you don’t have to.

Egg layers will begin laying at around 19 weeks of age and will potentially lay an egg a day for the first half year. After that, egg production

usually decreases. You can keep the chickens around as long as you want but many people choose to replace them every year to keep a consistent supply of eggs.

And there you have the basics. Of course, there are many other details, but much can be learned through hands-on experience. Neighbours and farmer friends with expertise make great resources.

Enjoy the journey, and keep in mind that if you want to raise chickens this year, it may be time to place an order at a local hatchery, farm, or dealer.

Brought to you by the Stuartburn Emerson-Franklin Local Food Initiative, initiativelocalfood@gmail. com or find them on Facebook

As long as you understand the basics, have the ability to offer the chickens adequate feed, safe, ventilated housing, and are willing to put in the effort, you can learn as you go, and it can be a rewarding learning experience to take on as a family. Submitted photo