Dawson Trail Dispatch May 2022

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Ritchot Residents Encounter High Water

May 2022

Tache Experiences Flooding This Spring

By Angelique Forest

These drone photos were taken on April 28 from Brodeur Blvd at the South end of St. Adolphe.

The Municipality of Ritchot has declared a state of local emergency due to rising flood waters. This declaration allows local authorities to order the evacuation of properties in effort to safeguard lives, and properties. They reported on April 29, 71 homes within the municipality had been issued evacuation notices due to rising waters.

Drone footage of St. Adolphe on April 28th, 2022.

As of April 29, 71 homes within the municipality had been issued evacuation notices due to rising waters.

The RM of Tache has sent out public notices to residents informing them that sandbags and sand are available to assist those who may need them during the spring thaw.

Sandbag filling stations are situated at 4 locations throughout Tache with each location stocked with sand, sand bags, ties and funnels for filling.

The sites are Lorette at the Public Works/FireHall Building (1393 Dawson Rd); Landmark Public Works Building (150 Main St); RM administration Building (28007 Mun 52N); and Ste. Genevieve Fire Hall (68 Saltel Road).

Tache EMO is asking residents to please be considerate and only take what you need.

Additionally, the Tache Fire Department jumped in to assist Public Works employees in sandbagging a residence. Soon, the firefighters and Public Works employees, who were joined by neighbours and even some people just passing by, filled roughly 500 bags and created a dike around the residence to save the home from flooding.

The Tache Fire Department jumped in to assist Public Works employees in sandbagging a residence. Soon, the firefighters and Public Works employees, who were joined by neighbours and even some people just passing by, filled roughly 500 bags and created a dike around the residence to save the home from Photo from social media flooding.

May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

HyLife Largest Manitoba Operation to Achieve Safety Certification HyLife has become the biggest company by total operations in Manitoba, within the manufacturing and food industry sectors, to achieve SAFE Work Certified by Made Safe status.

Neal Curry, Executive Director of Made Safe, presented Grant Lazaruk, HyLife’s President and CEO with a plaque recently commemorating their certification at a ceremony in La Broquerie. The event was attended by manufacturing leaders, safety professionals and HyLife employees.

Headquartered in La Broquerie, HyLife employs more than 4,500 people, 2,500 working in Manitoba.

The company also has more than 160 sites, placing them among the largest Manitoba companies in the manufacturing and food industry sectors.

“This is a very exciting day, both for Made Safe and HyLife,” said Neal Curry, Made Safe Executive Director. “Safety certification at this level really is a tremendous feat and it takes a lot of work and commitment to get everyone at all levels

on board. HyLife should feel proud of this accomplishment; by committing to safety they are acting as a role model and demonstrating what a true commitment to safety looks like.”

“We are truly honoured to receive this historic certification,” shared Grant Lazaruk. “At HyLife, we have always been committed to safety and protecting our employees. From our feed mills to our barns and plants, we are driven to ensure all working environments live up to the highest standards. Becoming Manitoba’s largest manufacturing and food industry company to reach the Made Safe status is an accomplishment made possible thanks to collective efforts across our entire company.”

Workers Compensation Board (WCB) data shows that compared to industry averages, workplaces that implement a safety and health certification program experience 42 per cent lower injury rates and 49 per cent fewer workdays taken for timeloss injuries.

SAFE Work Manitoba partners with

industry-based safety associations, “Congratulations to HyLife on like Made Safe, in Manitoba’s largest this important achievement in safety sectors to support certification pro- leadership,” said Jamie Hall, Chief grams; delivered by and for industry. Operating Officer of SAFE Work

Manitoba. “By becoming SAFE Work Certified, you demonstrate that safety and health is a critical component of a successful business.”

HyLife has become the biggest company by total operations in Manitoba, within the manufacturing and food industry sectors, to achieve SAFE Submitted photo Work Certified by Made Safe status.

Province Commits to Multi-Year Highway Network Projects The Manitoba government is committing more than $1.5 billion going toward a three-year plan focused on Manitoba’s highway network.

The three-year plan to invest $1.5 billion has an annual commitment of at least $500 million focused on highway capital. Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Doyle Piw noted the province plans to in-

vest nearly $233 million in projects identified in the trade and commerce strategy, and had outlined a number of Perimeter Highway projects totaling over $346 million over the next three years.

A key initiative within the multi year plan includes the work on Highway 59 as it is part of the Manitoba Trade and Commerce Grid.

“Our government recognizes

targeted investments in roadways and bridges are foundational to our economic growth and the quality of life for all Manitobans,” said the Minister. “Advancing our highway network will enable market access for international, interprovincial and regional movement of goods, and will position our province to become a national transportation hub.”

New Funding Model Will Benefit Eastman Services Family Violence Shelters Agape House-Eastman Crisis Centre in Steinbach is just one of the organizations who will benefit after the Manitoba government introduced a new funding model for shelters funded by the Family Violence Prevention Program (FVPP). The fund is geared to improve operations of the family violence sector and better protect vulnerable Manitobans.

“With the support of many stakeholders in the family violence (FV) field, I believe that FV shelters will emerge stronger and more resilient that ever,” said Tracy Whitby, executive director, Agape House-Eastman Crisis Centre, Inc. “Communities, families and individuals all benefit when we work together to address gender-based violence. Our goal is to ensure individuals receive the resources and supports they need and that families are equipped to make healthier choices. We now have opportunity to expand our expertise and skills to continue to provide trauma-

informed care and implement best practices that our survivors deserve. I look forward to the opportunities this new funding model will bring and how it will positively impact the individuals and families in Manitoba.”

“Ensuring adequate supports for survivors of family violence is a key priority and engagement with the sector has helped us identify areas where improvements are needed and where steps are already underway,” said Families Minister Rochelle Squires. “Over the last several years, it has become increasingly apparent the current funding model for shelter agencies has become inadequate and inequitable. This new model will help align funding equity, ensure accountability and better protect vulnerable Manitobans.”

The new model will be implemented in a phased approach with a $3.2 million investment across the Province in the first year to support additional staff and salary increases at all

shelters. The current funding model for shelters, first established in 1987, is based on the number of overnight stays in the shelter. The new funding model specifically focuses on supporting staffing capacity to ensure quality services for those staying in a shelter and following the shelter stay in transitional housing options.

Changes to the model include incorporation of gender and diversity analysis; easy modification and future application in bringing on new agencies; enhanced funding for crisis line operation; and increased funding for salaries to support staff recruitment and retention.

Minister Squires noted the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic combined with an increase in demand for services, a decreased ability to retain professionally trained staff and an influx of individuals presenting with complex needs has resulted in significant concerns for both staff and the individuals at shelters.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2022

Warm Weather Sparks Impromptu Easter Snowman Contest in Lorette

By Jolynn Cochrane Easter weekend in Lorette this year looked very different than years past, as many families joined in some spring fun that was sparked by an idea of Councillor Armand and wife Marcia Poirier to host a “snowman making contest”.

Categories were determined for judging criteria, the rules simply to get creative, have fun and be silly. No age restriction was put in place to entice older residents of the community to engage in the winter past time too.

The warmer weekend weather lent itself perfectly for the construction of snowmen in all shapes and sizes throughout the town of Lorette that decorated many yards for all residents viewing pleasure.

Judging was held Sunday April 17 from 6-8 pm and prizes purchased from local businesses were distributed to all participants.

Armand and his wife Marcia were, “Blown away by the enthusiasm and participation of all the children and their families who took part in this exciting event.”

When speaking with Councillor Poirier, he indicated that due to the overwhelming response, additional prizes were required as so many community members joined in on the fun. It was only right to award each with some token for their efforts.

First place for the largest snowman was awarded to Lorette’s very own youth entrepreneur, Ethan Cochrane (Popsicle Planet) who served up smiles instead of his typical ice creams, with an enormous 6 plus foot tall snowman. Cochrane spent much of Saturday, once catching wind of the competition piling and packing snow to make his snowman’s base to set the top two balls upon.

“I think I was out there for about 4 or 5 hours maybe?” said Cochrane. “I had to go in the house a few times for water breaks. That snow was so heavy!”

“We didn’t have any carrots, so I had to get creative and used an oversized plastic Easter egg, and then I decided to use them for the buttons too,” said Cochrane.”

The backyard lilacs came in handy for the perfect arms and a couple pieces of hand selected black granite were used for the eyes. All in all his efforts landed him the top prize, a $50 gift certificate for The Toy Lady Shoppe.

Second place for most creative or original submission was appointed to Faith, Paige, Alexis and Jack for their snow bunny and babies. Their enthusiasm was in abundance and clearly pulled out all the stops, incorporating colourful pipe cleaners for ears, balloons for Easter eggs and even painted their snow bunny that sported a pom-pom tail. They will be enjoying a $30 gift certificate from the Dawson Trail Motor Inn-LB. Special mentions to all the consolation winners, Roman and Josiah, Charlie and Ellie, Ethan L, Beatrice, Denis, and Blanche, Timea, Bennet and AJ, Emma and Jackson, Aubrie, Tia and Esther, Joy Anne & Family, Jayce and Charlotte.

Residents from 22 Settlers Trail, 381195 Dawson Road, 17 and 22 Rosa Street, 155 Belanger drive and 156 Settlers Trail were awarded a variety of certificates from other local businesses including Chicken Chef, PERK, Brian’s Drive Inn and Popsicle Planet.

Members of the community applauded Councillor Armand and Marcia Poirier for their generosity and ingenious plan for some impromptu spring snowman fun.

After all what else could we do with all this snow and on Easter yet?

(top) First Place prize was earned

by Ethan Cochrane with the classical snowman design and later named it “Gurt” adorned with a top hat, knit mittens and scarf.

Photo credit: Chad Cochrane (right) Second Place winners Faith, Paige, Alexis and Jack with Councillor Armand and Marcia Poirier proudly showcase their Easter Bunny Snow Creation.

Photo credit: Andrea Adams

Consolation winners show their humorous side with a melting snowmen family.

Photo credit: Andrea Adams

Honourable mentions awarded to beach bum (Sandra Lawless), Blue Bomber fan (Andrea Adams), mini snow family (Timea Sulan) and masked unicorn (unknown). Participants of the Snowman Contest proudly displayed their Easter weekend creations that could be seen in many yards throughout town.

Photo credits: Sandra Lawless, Andrea Adams, Timea Sulan and unknown.

May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Parliament Begins Debate on Federal Budget On April 7, the Liberal/NDP Government presented its 2022 federal budget.

Parliament has been in recess for the past two weeks. MPs have been studying the 280-page document.

As Parliament resumes this week, MPs will have an opportunity to share their thoughts and ask questions about the government’s plans.

There are lots of questions.

Although lengthy in page count and heavy on Liberal buzzwords and slogans, the document is light on details and even lighter on relief for Canadians struggling to pay their bills.

Rampant inflation (currently at 6.7%) is hitting Canadian families hard. It is also hitting our seniors (and others on fixed incomes) hard.

Canadians were hoping this budget would offer some relief. Instead,

they got buzzwords and an additional $56 billion in new deficit spending.

The Liberals have already spent some $600 billion in deficit spending, pushing our national debt to $1.2 trillion. Doing so has led to inflation: more dollars chasing fewer goods. This, in conjunction with the ever-increasing Liberal Carbon Tax, has only served to make the cost of essential items like food and gas more expensive.

This budget fails to offer any meaningful measures to deal with inflation.

While I am pleased to see the government focus on the issue of housing, the sad reality is that the Liberal’s previous focus and investments in housing has seen the price of housing skyrocket. This and numerous similar examples beg the ques-

tion: Why is it that Canadians end up worse off every time this Liberal Government spends money?

Moreover, despite all this spending, many vital Canadian institutions remain significantly underfunded.

COVID-19 showed us just how fragile our public health care system is. Opposition parties were united in their call to increase healthcare transfers to the provinces -something provincial governments were begging for long before the corona virus hit two years ago. The Liberals ignored this plea.

The war in Ukraine showed just how unprepared and underfunded western militaries are including Canada. The Liberals pledged $8 billion in new defense spending, but that still falls far short of what is needed to reach our NATO commitment of 2% of GDP.

Moreover, the government’s failure to procure new fighter jets and shore up our Arctic presence and defenses leave Canada’s north vulnerable to the Russians who are and have been active in the Arctic for many years.

Despite a drought last year, the budget offered nothing to help farmers. It also does nothing to address the serious supply chain issues facing all Canadians including here in Provencher.

Unlike the Liberals and NDP, Conservatives understand that debt needs to be paid back. Only Conservatives recognize the need for a plan to return to balanced budgets.

Conservatives want to see a real plan for growth, not just throwing more money at failed Liberal initiatives. Investments should be based on outcomes, not ideology, and they

should have clear metrics attached to ensure Canadians are getting the best bang for their buck.

We believe it is possible for Canadians to get ahead and not just get by, and that starts with leaving more money in your pockets.

Conservatives recognize that Canadians cannot afford more Liberal financial failures. We will continue to be the voice of everyday Canadians who are crying out for relief, advocating a return to fiscal responsibility and common-sense policies.

Priorities to Recover Together – Budget 2022 Our provincial government recently announced Budget 2022: Recover Together.

The 2022 Budget focuses on moving Manitobans onto a solid path towards recovery by strengthening, investing, and building a better future.

After a difficult two years, Budget 2022 will implement our plan to recover together and take action on the issues Manitobans care about.

Budget 2022 will make investments in five priority areas including strengthening health care, making life more affordable for Manitobans, building the economy, investing in our communities, and protecting our environment. Investments in these priority areas will ensure a strong social and economic recovery in Manitoba.

Our plans to strengthen our health

care system include making an investment of $110 million to reduce the diagnostic and surgical backlogs, providing $17 million to implement year one of the five-year A Pathway to Mental Health and Community Wellness: A Roadmap for Manitoba.

Almost $20 million will be allocated to develop a new senior’s strategy and $32 million for initiatives outlined in the Stevenson Review. $11 million will be invested to increase nursing enrollment in Manitoba’s post-secondary institutions. Another $812 million in continued capital commitment for rural and northern health care under the five-year Manitoba’s Clinical and Preventative Services Plan. $630 million will be invested for contingencies and COVID-19 response and recovery.

To help make life more affordable for Manitobans, we plan to increase the education property tax rebate to 50 percent by 2023. Introduced will be the Residential Renters’ Tax Credit.

Eligibility will be expanded for the Child Care Subsidy Program. Shelter benefits will increase for lowincome Manitobans by investing $9 million for Employment and Income Assistance, Rent Assist indexation, and $8.9 million for non-Employment and Income Assistance Rent Assist indexation. We also plan to provide $12 million in new income support programs for people with severe and prolonged disabilities, as well as reduce vehicle registration fees.

We will build the economy by launching a new Venture Capital Fund with an initial $50 million

investment, make the Small Business Venture Capital Tax Credit permanent and expand it to support venture capital funds. $5 million will be provided to strengthen immigration programming to help attract newcomers to Manitoba. More than $2 million will be invested to support new property development in Manitoba, focus on tax competitiveness for Manitoba businesses and investors; reduce the payroll tax for 970 businesses. More than $18 million for improving the wages of front-line workers in the community living disability; children’s disability and family violence prevention sectors.

Our investments in our communities will include $326 million over two years to make child care more affordable and accessible for Manitoba parents with 716 spaces in new child-care centres and supporting 50 new home-based spaces this year.

There will be investment in schools with a goal to build 22 new schools by 2027. Support of the arts, culture and sports organizations with $100 million over three years.

An additional $10.3 million to enhance the Building Sustainable Communities Program, investing $578.5 million in capital projects for highways including projects funded under the Manitoba Restart Capital Program.

Continued work with Indigenous leaders, elders, knowledge keepers, families and community members to advance shared goals and economic opportunities by committing $5 million for advancing progress on reconciliation activities.

To make sure our environment is protected, we plan to develop the Energy Policy Framework and a new water management strategy. We will invest over $6 million for 12 initiatives to advance the Made-in-Manitoba Climate and Green Plan, including $1.5 million for expanding the Conservation and Climate Fund. $50 million over the next two years for accelerating the remediation and rehabilitation of orphaned and abandoned mine sites.

Over $10 million will be allocated for forestry programs and over $14 million for provincial parks. A new multi-year parks capital strategy will be developed to modernize and enhance campgrounds, roads, trails and other key infrastructure. $100 million for the Lake Manitoba and Lake St. Martin Outlet Channels Project for enhancing flood protection. Working with the Government of Canada to meet international climate change targets and continue partnerships to upgrade the City of Winnipeg’s North End Water Pollution Control Centre.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2022

Budget 2022 - Are the Provinces Holding Our Money Hostage?

By Monica Guetre

Like most of us, I joyfully read (ok… sort of) the Federal government’s proposed Budget 2022.

One of the reasons why I read the budget is because personally I really don’t like debt. I wanted to see if there was a timeline and a plan to get us out of the red. We have racked up debt over the last 2 years for sure.

Debt hampers decision making and it makes it extremely difficult to weather a national crisis.

As I was perusing the 304 page document I stopped and did a double take at the Canada Infrastructure Program (CIP) section.

We all know that keeping up with the wear and tear of our roads, bridges, water and sewer projects has left many provinces in dire straits. I do remember that federal election before the pandemic, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities had some of their urgent wishes granted with funding of $33.5 billion over 11 years.

Under the CIP program, provinces and territories are to prioritize and submit projects to Infrastructure Canada for review. To date, the program has approved more than $20 billion for over 4,500 projects across the country.

This is where it starts to get a little cloudy.

According to the Federal website, Manitoba has only 1% left to spend ($13.6 million) as it has progressed in rolling out their approved projects.

Alberta seems to be in a similar boat, they have only 2% left ($603 million) again successfully putting that

shovel in the ground. Now compare this to Newfoundland and Labrador with 59% ($326.3 million) and Quebec at 44% remaining ($3,299.0 billion) of their approved projects. This is a big disparity.

On the surface, you might be asking, “What’s the big deal?”

Well, if the money is promised for infrastructure and not used that means communities don’t see improvements when it is needed and we as taxpayers can’t use it for another priority, like the enormous cost of a pandemic let’s say or another global emergency like people fleeing from war and need our help. Provincial delays are tying up the funds in limbo. These are all projects that can kick start our economy with growth and jobs.

The excuse of many of the approved projects reporting construction delays due to the pandemic does not seem equal across the country.

For some provinces such as Manitoba and Alberta, putting money into infrastructure, even during a pandemic, does not seem to be a problem.

Right now the CIP is like money sitting in your bank account that will sit there for the next ten years and you can’t use it even though you need a new car or braces for your child’s teeth. That is not a money position we would want to be in and I would hope that all the jurisdictions across the country would understand this too.

What the federal government is proposing within the budget discussion is sound economics for our tax dollars to address this. They are asking to accelerate the deadline for provinces to fully commit their remaining approved funding under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program by March 31, 2023 and any uncommitted funds after this date will be reallocated to other priorities.

Also, because of the pandemic, the 2022 budget also proposes to extend

the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program’s construction deadline from October 2027 to October 2033 so that funding is available when needed. In part, that means Provinces and municipalities can create long term planning. This is a good thing as we know Federal party’s promises can change at election time.

I also read a few other parts of the budget. And it does have some notable benefits that will help many of us like the $10 per day National Early Leaning Child Care Program, increasing the federal minimum wage to $15.55/hour, a ten per cent increase to the maximum GIS benefit for single seniors, and reverting back the old age pension eligibility to 65 from 67.

The increase to the Climate Action Incentive payments will put more money in the pocket and that means a family of four will receive $832 in Manitoba.

Going into to post secondary education gets a bit easier because the budget proposes waiving interest on Canada Student Loans until March 2023 as well as ensuring that no person making $40,000 or less will need to make payments on their federal student loans going forward.

Visiting the dentist will be less expensive for families who have incomes less than $90,000. This is proposed to start with children under 12 this year, and in 2023, it expands to those under 18 years-olds along with seniors and persons living with a disability.

Housing affordability is a big problem especially anywhere rural and that was compounded during two years of a pandemic. One budget measure even tackles available housing stock by putting a moratorium on foreign investors and speculators who are buying up homes.

Making housing more affordable is a priority across all ages. The budget

Budget 2022 Prioritizes Health and Education Since my last column, Education and Early Childhood Learning has announced continued investments in the education system in Manitoba.

Safety and health have been a priority of our government and the education system throughout the pandemic.

Budget 2022 was released on April 12 with more good news for all Manitobans. As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, continued investments in health care will help strengthen Manitoba. For all the details on Budget 2022, visit manitoba.ca/budget2022.

On April 7, we announced that our government is providing an additional $7 million for students with special needs. We recognize the impact the pandemic has had on learning and this funding reflects the high priority the provincial government places on special needs education in Manitoba. This increase for the upcoming school year will sustain students with special needs by providing student-specific supports determined by school teams, such as increased access to behaviour specialist supports, specialized programming or educational assistants.

This funding will provide all Manitoba school divisions an increase in their Special Needs Level 2 and 3 funding, which can be used to enable student-specific resources to address special learning needs.

In addition to this new funding, the province has been working diligently to fulfill its 20 New Schools Guarantee and we are making great progress. Our government is on track to achieve the 20 New Schools Guarantee within the original 10-year time commitment.

In addition to adding capacity for almost 11,000 additional students, this commitment will support high quality education for all students in Manitoba. This investment will ensure that more students have the opportunity to learn and grow in high quality learning environments and minimizes transportation costs and overcrowding of existing schools in growing communities.

As I was writing this article, forecasts that we are to expect one of the worst blizzards in decades in our province dominated the news media. I predict that warmer weather is still ahead and will provide plenty

of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful Lac du Bonnet Constituency! I urge all Manitobans to get outside this Spring and enjoy our parks, beaches, golf courses, markets and countless other activities with family and friends.

Lastly, I encourage everyone to continue to practice the fundamentals and protect Manitobans by getting vaccinated, staying home when you are sick, wash your hands and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer frequently.

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to email me at wayne@wayneewasko.com, or call me at 204-268-3282. Also, you can follow me on Twitter @wayneewaskomla and friend me on Facebook.

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

Funds Remaining, by province, in the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

increases the First Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit from $750 to $1,500; it introduces a Tax-Free First Home Savings Account and a new Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit of up to $7,500 that helps with the cost of constructing a secondary

suite; and a one-time $500 payment for some of us facing housing affordability challenges.

For those who have a few hours or maybe a week; check out the 2022 budget online at budget.gc.ca/2022/ report-rapport/toc-tdm.

Our Government Will Continue Supporting Ukraine and Ukrainians Coming to Manitoba The war in Ukraine continues as Putin shows no signs of slowing down his unwarranted and unwanted attack on the people of Ukraine. He continues to destroy cities, towns and villages killing civilians, parents and children, destroying hospitals and anything that gets in his way.

I would like to thank all Manitobans that have donated to the Humanitarian Relief Effort for Ukraine. There are many organizations, and individuals from right across the province that have stepped up to help in these efforts, from bake sales to blankets, Manitobans are helping with donations of both cash and other needed supplies.

Our Manitoba government has provided more than $800,000 in direct humanitarian aid to the Ukrainian Canadian Council, Canada-Ukraine foundation, and the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation.

We also took Russian products off of Manitoba Liquor Mart shelves and created a resource website for Ukrainians coming to Manitoba: manitoba4ukraine.ca.

The Volunteers at the Ukrainian Canadian Congress and other organizations are working hard at collecting needed supplies to send to Poland and other countries where millions of Ukrainians have fled, to escape the horrors of War. Many Ukrainian refugees will be seeking a safe place to live, and Manitoba will welcome as many Ukrainian refugees as possible. Along with waiving the fee for Ukrainians coming to Manitoba, our government is working with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to offer enhanced measures to help the movement of Ukrainians who want to leave their country. A central Reception Centre for Ukrainian Refugees arriving in Manitoba is now open in Winnipeg. The centre will provide: initial intake services to determine individual and family needs; temporary accommodations and meals to individuals who have no connection to individuals in Manitoba; access to coordinated healthcare services through the Winnipeg Regional Authority and Manitoba Health; Clothing and cellphone SIM cards for newcomers; and registration, brief orientation, and referral services through Manitoba Start to facilitate awareness of settlement supports that link people to language training, the workforce, and long-term settlement needs.

The Manitoba government has also established a special task force led by the Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization. The Ukrainian Refugee Task Force has been started to provide a full range of potential care and settlement services needed to support Ukrainian families. This will include a full continuum of provincial service supports through necessary housing arrangements, health, and mental health care, social assistance and labour market assistance; access to licensed child-care services, healthcare and Kindergarten-to-Grade 12 education.

This unnecessary war in Ukraine has created many hardships on the people of Ukraine and the world must do all it can to stop Vladimir Putin.

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

May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Community Celebrates with New Centre

By Angelique Forest

Read the Dispatch online at www.dawsontrail.ca

The Official Grand Opening Ceremony of the Grande Pointe Community Centre at 423 Bernat Road was hosted recently with many coming out to take in the celebration. The event was organized by the Grande Pointe Homeowners Association (GPHA) board of directors.

Eveline Touchette, the president of the Homeowners Association and was happy to see the event succeed. “…even though the weather was not favourable, the turnout was great. Over 100 people showed up to come and celebrate with us,” said Touchette. “The community was very well represented. New families with children and founding community residents were able to exchange stories.”

Following the opening ceremonies with dignitaries, the guests were invited to visit with local event sponsors. Gotta GO handed out promotional items to everyone, XO Florist had a display with a variety of floral arrangements, A Touch of Glass set up some tables “to show us how we could decorate our centre for special occasions.” Guests could also order a hoodie or t-shirt with the GPHA logo with Creations by Kylie said Touchette.

Additionally, Liam Harder from the RM of Ritchot Recreation kept the young and old busy with making their own special buttons.

Following the ceremony, guests were treated to lattes from Perk Coffee, and a wine and cheese spread.

The Grande Pointe Homeowners Association has been active since 1997 and was incorporated in 2003.

“In that time, we have developed the Grande Pointe Park, a valuable community asset that is visited year-round by not only our residents but from people across the re-

Grand Pointe Homeowners Association’s Grand Opening of their new community centre on April 24.

gion and province,” added Touchette.

Touchette was very passionate about the event and how far the association has come over the years.

“We started off by picking up the pieces after the flood of 1997, and today we are thriving with a new community centre,” said Touchette.

“What inspires us to keep going, you may ask?” she asked. “Well seeing young families with children playing in the sandbox and play structures at the park [and] witnessing families enjoying a picnic under our shelter.

Baseball teams use our baseball fields every night of the week from the end of May until the end of August. There’s always something going on. Kids playing basketball, seniors playing pickleball, people enjoying the walking paths and fitness boot camps in the park. Weddings on our outdoor stage and celebrations under the shelter.”

“Then in the winter time we love seeing families skating on the outdoor ice rink, the little children learning to skate, the teenagers practicing their hockey skills and playing a game of hockey after school,” she added.

“The adults are keeping in shape, playing hockey on a beautiful winter evening.”

Touchette, along with her husband, have raised their family in the community as founding members of the town, finding new and creative ways to improve their area and attract new families.

“We hope that the community centre will continue to bring our community together, and offer activities for all age groups,” concluded Touchette. “The last two years have been very difficult on all of us and we hope new residents will feel welcomed and get involved as our community keeps growing.”

Photos courtesy of Eveline Touchette

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Jolys Regional Library Needs Petition Signed to Save Library

By Angelique Forest The Jolys Regional Library board is working diligently to find a solution that would keep both their library locations open. They have prepared a petition for people to sign that asks for the main branch of the library to be allowed to remain in the auditorium of École Heritage School. Further, they are asking that their MLA Dennis Smook sponsor and present their petition to the Legislative Assembly.

The Bibliothèque Régionale Jolys Regional Library (JRL) were notified by the Red River Valley School Division they have to vacate the premises they use at the auditorium of École Heritage School (EHS) by March 31, 2023. This is the place they have called home for the past 48 years.

Between the two libraries in St. Malo and St. Pierre-Jolys there are over 70,000 items including books, periodicals, audios, DVD’s and CD’s for children, adolescents and adults that are all offered in both official languages.

Thousand of books can be accessed through the E-libraries program. The public also has the use of computers, a colour printer, a photocopier and scanner at both libraries. The Regional library offers a multitude of activities for the whole family including Story Hour, Makers night, TD Summer Reading Program, Family Night, Lego Club and Pyjama Tales.

According to the library board, the auditorium was originally built in the 1960s by renowned Manitoba architect Etienne Gaboury and any renovations or changes should be avoided due to its heritage significance. With this in mind the library board is asking the Province step in and create a plan that will not only help the library but also be fair to the school division’s needs.

As the petition must be submitted as a “hard copy”, the library board has made a downloadable version available online at jrlibrary. mb.ca/2022/04/12/petition. They are asking for public support and help them amass signatures.

Bring in the printed off petition to either library location, then sign and hand it in.

The deadline they have set is May 7.

The St Malo Branch Library is located at 189 St-Malo St. in St-Malo and the St. Pierre-Jolys The Jolys Regional Library location at 505 board seeking help in keeping Hébert Ave. N. libraries open.

Technology Upgrades Gets Financial Boost The Manitoba government is providing more than $100,000 for technology upgrades through the Skills Strategy Equipment Enhancement Fund (SSEEF) for industrial arts and technical vocational programs at two schools in southeast Manitoba.

Ecole/College Gabrielle-Roy in Ile Des Chenes will receive almost $43,000 to put towards their metalworking program and Steinbach Regional Secondary School will receive over $68,000 to compliment their welding technology.

SSEEF grants help school divisions purchase equipment for technical vocational and industrial arts educational facilities in schools to ensure alignment with apprenticeship and industry standards. This year, more than $1.4 million in grants are being provided to 35 schools across Manitoba.

Details on applications for the 2022-23 grant program will be posted this spring. For more information on the grant program visit edu.gov.mb.ca.

Tragic Loss Spurs Mom to Provide Opioid Overdose Training and Kits

By Angelique Forest The RM of Ritchot Recreation and Shelly Taillieu came together recently to bring awareness and supplies to the Pioneer Hall in St. Adolphe for participants who wanted to receive proper life saving training.

In late April, local resident Taillieu volunteered her expertise as a registered nurse and obtained the necessary amount of opioid overdose kits for the participants who attended.

“I’m a registered nurse and I can get free kits to hand out to people who I have trained or have been trained,” explained Taillieu. “I volunteer just to raise awareness.”

To create awareness and host these events are personal for Taillieu. She explained how she lost her daughter due to a drug overdose in November of 2018, just six days before her 23rd birthday. The loss of her daughter fu-

eled her passion to save others from the same pain she experienced.

Taillieu also has created the legacy of “Destiny and Sean’s Backpacks from Heaven”.

Sean an integral partner in the backpack project and Destiny’s boyfriend also died suddenly soon after. Now Taillieu regularly collects supplies for homeless persons, stuffs them in backpacks and distributes them.

“Four hundred and seven Manitobans lost their lives last year to drugs,” added Taillieu.

“That’s over one a day. In 2018 when my daughter died it was 1 every 3 days. It’s a crisis and the more people are aware and trained the better.”

Taillieu has given her information to share with anyone who would like to be trained.

She can be reached on her cell at 204-8012504 or by email at Shellyt@live.ca.

May 2022

May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Ritchot Recreation Encourages the Community to Garden

By Angelique Forest Ritchot Recreaion Services is trying to entice more of the residents to get their hands dirty with their promotion of a seed exchange library.

The Recreation Services want residents to experience the joy and satisfaction of starting their own garden this year with a hand from the community. If you have left over seeds from last year, some saved from your own garden or purchased extras, visit your local seed exchange mini library, and donate or swap your seeds.

If you don’t have any seeds to contribute but would like to try a hand at gardening, take what you need and leave a thank you note in the library to spread the community spirit.

“This is the coolest thing ever,” wrote St. Adolphe resident Natalie Chow. She then added a thank you to Liam Harder, the municipality’s recreation programmer.

It didn’t take long for others to get excited for the program as hundreds of people have now reacted to the post on their community Facebook page.

How to Start a Seed Library in Your Community If you’re interested in starting your own, then there are a few things to consider prior to creating seed libraries.

- Present your idea to a local group, such as a garden club or master gardeners. There is a lot of work involved, so you’ll need a group of interested people.

- Arrange for a convenient space, such as a community building. Often, actual libraries are willing to dedicate

a space for a seed library (they don’t take up much space).

- Gather your materials. You’ll need a sturdy wooden cabinet with dividable drawers, labels, sturdy envelopes for the seeds, date stamps, and stamp pads. Local hardware stores, garden centers, or other businesses may be willing to donate materials.

- You’ll also need a desktop computer with a seed database (or another system for keeping track). Free, open source databases are available online.

- Ask local gardeners for seed donations. Don’t worry about having a Natalie Chow shared a picture of the newly added seed huge variety of seeds at library and thanked Liam Harder from the municipal office first. Starting small is a for encouraging the program. Photo Credit: social media good idea. Late summer and autumn (seed saving time) is the - Establish your ground rules. For best time to request seeds. example, do you want all seeds to be - Decide on categories for your seeds. grown organically? Are pesticides Many libraries use “super easy,” okay? “easy,” and “difficult” classifica- - Gather a group of volunteers. For tions to describe the difficulty level starters, you’ll need people to staff involved in planting, growing, and the library, sort and package seeds, saving the seeds. You’ll also want and create publicity. You may want to divide seeds by the type of plant to promote your library by inviting (i.e. flowers, vegetables, herbs, etc. professional or master gardeners to or perennials, annuals, or biennial.) provide informational presentations Include classifications for heirloom or workshops. plants and native wildflowers. There - Spread the word about your library are many possibilities, so devise the with posters, fliers, and brochures. classification system that works best Be sure to provide information about for you and your borrowers. saving seeds!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Wildlife Haven Provides Back Yard Tips on Preventing Avian Influenza Outbreak The Wildlife Haven team is aware of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) risk in our area this Spring. Outbreaks have now been declared in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, North Dakota, and Minnesota. With Spring migration and the contagious nature of this virus, infection of Manitoba wildlife is expected and two instances have now been confirmed.

Samples from several snow geese were collected in southwestern Manitoba near Waskada and a single sample from a bald eagle was collected in the Dauphin area. A sample from each location has tested positive for the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), subtype H5N1.

One case of avian influenza has been detected in a commercial poultry flock in Manitoba.

HPAI can cause a large range of clinical signs including sudden death and tends to largely affect waterfowl.

Ways you can help are to keep bird feeders and bird baths clean. Avian influenza can spread via secretions from infected birds onto feeding areas and water sources and poses a severe threat to avian populations.

The Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre, located just outside of Ile des Chenes, is recommending cleaning

bird feeders a minimum of once a month using a diluted bleach solution and to allow them to dry completely before use. When cleaning your bird feeders, make sure you wear gloves and a mask.

Also use bird feeders which are made of either metal or plastic. Wood feeders are not recommended, as proper disinfection of this material is not possible. To mitigate the spread of avian influenza, remove your bird feeders if you see many birds congregating in the same area (especially corvids - Example: ravens, crows, magpies and blue jays). Also remove bird feeders during periods of high humidity and rainfall to inhibit bacterial growth within the feed.

A good solution is planting “birdfriendly” native plants in your yard, such as milkweed, sunflowers, virginia creeper, etc. This reduces the ability for disease to spread within feeders, while still providing a food source.

If any abnormal signs are occurring at your bird feeders (such as finding deceased birds near feeders), give them a call at 204-878-3740 and they can assist you in how to help Manitoba wildlife.

Please report deceased waterfowl or raptor sightings to the Manitoba tip line: 1-800-782-0076.

Rare Patient Admitted to Wildlife Haven Hospital

Boreal Owl

A rare patient was admitted to the Wildlife Haven Hospital at the beginning of March after colliding with a window in Brandon, Manitoba.

The Boreal Owl suffered from severe head trauma and required immediate medical attention. After spending a few weeks in intensive care and receiving the necessary medication, the owl started to show signs of improvement and gradually started getting better.

Staff are happy to report, that the owl is now out of intensive care and has been transferred into an outdoor habitat on campus which is the last step before being released back to the North American River Otter

wild.

Additionally, the North American River Otter that was admitted as a patient in 2021 has recovered.

This patient was brought to Wildlife Haven after rescuers found her alone and distressed in their backyard. The otter’s nose and eyes were badly wounded; injuries that they suspect were due to a domestic dog attack. The patient had a thick abrasion from her nose to the forehead and another across her right eye.

After spending the entire winter in care at Wildlife Haven, she fully recovered from her injuries and was released back to the wild.

May 2022

Rent Increase Forces St. Malo’s Farmers Market to Cancel 2022 Season

By Angelique Forest The St. Malo and District Farmers Market have cancelled its 2022 season over a rent hike at the St. Malo Arena venue, but council in the RM of De Salaberry is standing by its new bylaw governing the use of municipal property approved in early March.

Many in the community have strong negative opinions about the news and are not shy in sharing their comments online.

Many of those posting are questioning the municipal council’s decision, saying they failed to consider many additional benefits the market brought to the town. Tourists, vendors and community opportunities are among the main benefits mentioned, and the residents are very frustrated that the fee needed to be increased

by so much.

“I hope this is remembered,” posted Paul Catellier, a town resident. “A town council that does not listen to its town’s residents and businesses.”

Darren Dreikluft, another resident, is reminding everyone not to forget this during the upcoming municipal election. “This is who we have representing us and making decisions that affect our community and its future.”

According to the municipality, the bylaw put in place is intended to standardize rental fees that were previously inconsistent, and to recoup more of the costs associated with renting municipal space to private groups.

Diane Girouard runs the market and said the RM of De Salaberry’s decision to double the rental fee for the arena parking lot to $200 per day is difficult to take.

According to Girouard, the increased fee leaves no profits to be made for an incredible amount of work, which is why she felt the need to cancel this 2022 season.

Her expenses include canopies, insurance premiums, and Direct Farm Manitoba dues.

The market was open Saturdays from late June to early September.

She believes the financial impact of the market each day represents a significant economic driver for the small town attracting 23 vendors and 640 shoppers regularly and increased by 25 percent on a long weekend.

The Municipality has responded to her that they cannot make an exception as it would lead to everyone wanting the same deal.

Unable to continue in St. Malo, she plans to look into options in St. Pierre-Jolys.

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May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Huge Disparity in Municipal CAO Salaries Discovered Based on Gender De Salaberry Reeve Stands By Decision to Give CAO Raise

By Dan Guetre It may have started as a dispute at the RM of De Salaberry Council to increase the salary of their CAO but a larger picture revealed a greater problem across the Province. If you are a woman CAO, you are likely to be paid on the average $20,000 less than your male counterpart.

The “sticker shock” of De Salaberry CAO Denise Parent receiving an approximate $15,000 annual raise in compensation has left some, both residents and councillors, feeling this was not right.

Historically, women have found themselves in this situation. According to the Canadian Women’s Foundation, currently there exists on average an 11% imbalance in the Canadian workforce.

In addition, according to Statistics Canada (2022), as of 2021, the gender pay gap for full-time and part-time employees is 0.89, which means women make 89 cents of every dollar men make. In a federal government study it was reported that women who graduate university with a bachelor’s degree earn an average of $69,063 annually, while men who graduate with a bachelor’s degree earn $97,761 (Statistics Canada, 2016).

It starts early in a career according to an ADP and Leger (2021) selfreport survey, “Women’s pre-tax salaries remain 21% lower than men’s, while additional variable compensation, such as bonuses, profit-sharing or equity agreements, are where disparity surges, with Canadian working women earning 43% less in additional compensation compared to men in 2020”.

More specifically, when it came to CAO salaries, Probe Research analyzed data from a 2021 survey and reported a gender gap of $20,629 on average. The research recommended that a gender neutral, non-salary negotiation process would reduce the pay gender gap over time.

“The analysis also shows that gender is a key predictor of salary, even when statistically accounting for other factors,” said Nettie Neudorf, Manitoba Municipal Administrators’ Association (MMAA) Past-President.

“Using a gender neutral, non-salary negotiation process will narrow the gender gap over time. MMAA will continue to engage Probe Research to analyze future surveys and compare the factors that drive salaries to the influencers of today.”

Part of the negotiation process was a system developed by the MMAA, supported by the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM), called the CAO Salary Matrix.

The CAO Salary Matrix is a tool municipal governments can utilize by entering information relevant to their size, population, budget and number of employees, along with CAO education, years of experience and accreditation information.

“It is intended to be used as an optional tool and resource for Council and CAO. It is not exclusive to final decision making but rather serves as a

It starts early in a career according to an ADP and Leger (2021) self-report survey, “Women’s pre-tax salaries remain 21% lower than men’s, while additional variable compensation, such as bonuses, profit-sharing or equity agreements, are where disparity surges, with Canadian working women earning 43% less in additional compensation compared to men in 2020”.

Stock photo

starting place for negotiations between the CAO and Council,” added Neudorf. “This calculation tool is helpful with salary negotiations, whether for a new hire, contract renewals, [and] change in the minimum requirements for the municipality or environmental landscape.”

According to Neudorf, the CAO Salary Matrix is to be updated bi-annually to the CPI inflationary increase over the 2 years. The next update in the salary schedule will be 2023 with the combined Manitoba CPI increases for 2021 and 2022. As the profession and demands to the position grow, as well changes to the labour market landscape, the schedule must adapt to the environment of the period.

This must occur every 5 years, at a minimum. This next full review will be in 2026.

Neudorf explained that the previous matrix used was based on pre-1990 workplace environment and salary influencers in that century. This was an outdated and under-utilized system.

In 2018 the MMAA decided to revisit and modernize in order to assist municipalities.

Asked whether there have been any issues with the updated way of calculating salaries, Neudorf believes there have been none so far.

She is pleased to say there has been “very positive feedback from elected officials, AMM and CAOs.” She does caution there are other factors involved with salary decisions.

“More questions need to be asked to understand the environment around this scenario. Is it a case of affordability?” she added. “Has performance status, expectations been formally presented and discussed to the CAO? Is there a gap in results to current pay?

Is there a training period or step scale in place or possible to raise the salary within the class range recommended?”

She suggested that relations and performance are above and beyond this analysis, so discretion is necessary for making the right fit.

“The impact could result in favour of both parties; whether it’s about an adjustment or increased responsibilities/expectations for the increase, additional training or another and

uncomfortable option,” said Neudorf.

“The goal in the end is about having the right person for the right job and paying them fairly for it. It needs to be a win-win for good relations between CAO and council and for the betterment of the community.”

In a recorded vote at a recent council meeting, two councillors opposed the increase for the CAO of De Salaberry.

According to Reeve Darrel Curé who was in favour of the decision, a review of comparable municipalities (population b/t 3,000 and 5,000) for non-union employees including the CAO was completed in November of 2021.

“The objective of the review are to ensure the wages paid in the RM are comparable to the surrounding municipalities and that the wages fall within the average,” said Curé. “I don’t know why there’s a difference between male and female but we, as council, felt it was fair to pay the average wage when compared to other municipalities that are similar in size to our municipality excluding the gender. We did not focus on discussions relating male/female as we believe in gender equality.”

“The matrix was part of the package for the CAO salary review however the objective was to ensure the wages paid in the RM are comparable to the surrounding municipalities and that the wages fall within the average regardless of gender,” explained Curé.

Curé believes the Salary Matrix is beneficial to help standardize discussions when considering CAO salaries as it an unbiased tool. He noted that CAO Parent’s score on the Salary Matrix places her in the classification of Level 3 and the new salary adjustment places her in the lower to middle range for that level.

“Each councillor is entitled to vote as they wish,” said Curé of the dissention. “Not all decisions are unanimous however council is expected to support a resolution once it is passed.”

“There are often a handful of residents that will oppose a council decision,” added Curé. “Council’s role is to make the best possible decisions with the available information for what it considers is best for the RM.”

May 2022

11

Spring Staycation Rebates Available The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce is excited to announce the 2022 return of their successful Tourism Rebate Incentive Program (TRIP), May 6 to 16.

“To say that TRIP 2021 was a success would be a huge understatement, because thanks to almost 25,000 Manitobans who took advantage of the rebate, this recovery program had a massive impact on Manitoba’s beleaguered tourism industry,” said Chuck Davidson, President and CEO, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. “With this new round of TRIP rebates, we’re encouraging Manitobans to get out there this spring to tour our beautiful province while supporting our valuable recreational assets.”

In 2021, TRIP returned $2.2 million in rebates to Manitobans who embarked on adventures, road trips and staycations, filling hotel rooms, taking advantage of specially-designed stay-and-play packages, and bolstering attraction visitation throughout the province. The tracked activity resulted in a total of $5.5 million in direct spending at recreational properties.

“Tracked spending aside, surveyed TRIP participants told us they spent an average of $510 on their trip, for total estimated spending of $11.2 million, representing roughly a 5-to-1 return on investment. This program made a huge difference to tourism in Manitoba and we’re excited to be able to do it again,” said Davidson.

Travel Manitoba President and CEO Colin Ferguson said the TRIP is a terrific way to find a staycation that speaks to you. “You might be dreaming about recharging on a weekend spa getaway, or thinking about rediscovering a hidden gem you visited long ago,” he said. “You could explore a region of the province that has always piqued your interest, or book a fun waterslide hotel stay with the kids. Whatever type of getaway you design, TRIP is a win-win. You’ll enjoy a break, see our beautiful province, and get something back!”

New for 2022, eligible participants will receive a rebate in the form of a personal cheque mailed to a designated physical address or delivered electronically to their PayPal account.

For TRIP Phase 3, the dates eligible for rebates will be Friday, May 6 to Monday, May 16, with the window to upload receipts to tripmb.ca closing one week later, at 11:59 pm on Monday, May 23, 2022.

Manitoba residents aged 18 and over can choose from one of two rebate options that consist of either booking and staying in a hotel, motel, or resort in Manitoba, to access a $100 rebate after uploading a proof of purchase receipt online at tripmb.ca.

The second option is for those Manitobans looking for a day trip or outing to one of our province’s 31 participating Star Attractions. Then upload a proof of purchase receipt to the online platform at tripmb.ca to access a 50% rebate on general admission.

In 2021, TRIP created excellent outcomes, including money in Manitobans’ pockets by administering almost 25,000 rebates, returning $2.2 million to Manitobans who invested in the province’s tourism sector.

According to a large post-TRIP participant survey, the program appealed to adults of all ages, with excellent representation in all age categories, with the largest category ages 35 to 44.

TRIP boosted occupancy and visitation as Manitobans paid for almost 17,800 individual hotel nights; 2,877 hotel stay and play packages (room and attraction), and more than 4,700 attraction admission fees for a total of $5.5 million in direct spending at recreational properties.

The program inspired travel. TRIP was an effective incentive, with 56% of survey respondents saying that the trip they took was not planned prior to the launch of the program. In addition, more than half of respondents said the incentive motivated them to take an overnight trip.

Almost 80% of survey respondents said the trip they took was for leisure and recreation.

To access the 2022 TRIP Terms of Use, including this year’s list of participating hotels/motels/resorts and Star Attractions, go to tripmb.ca.

Eligible receipts must be uploaded no later than 11:59 pm CST on Monday, May 23 to qualify for a rebate. Firstcome, first served; rebates will be available until funds are expended.

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May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2022

13

SAC Exhibits “Honouring” and “To Ukraine…with Love”

Richer Teen “Snaps” Top Spot in Photo Contest

By Angelique Forest A young woman from Richer has been awarded first place in a photo contest after one of her judged entries made the Top 18 selection.

Carmen Trudeau, a high school student, entered the photo contest in mid-April. The contest was hosted by Willis College in Winnipeg as a vehicle to promote their photography program.

“I had originally sent in 3 photos as there were three categories we could send in for… people, places and things,” explained Trudeau.

“Since my photo was one of the top 18, I was invited to the gallery at the college on April 29th where they announced the winners.”

“I was ecstatic to find out my photo was the winner,” exclaimed Trudeau. “There where over 1000 votes submitted!”

When asked about her future aspirations, she a lot to say.

“I recently started my own photography website and hope to get some part-time photography jobs in hopes to help save money for secondary education, announced Trudeau. “I plan on applying for the Veterinary Technician course through Red River College.

However there is a two year waiting list, so while I am waiting I plan on taking photography courses.”

“The contest was brought to my attention by one of my teachers at Ste. Anne collegiate,” added a thankful Trudeau. “Her name is Allison Graham. She knew how photography is a passion of mine.”

“I have been into photography since I was 13, I saved up for my very own higher quality camera and was able to purchase one when I was 15,” she explained. “My favourite things to photograph are animals and nature.”

The first place prize was a Canon camera package with a $1,000 value.

Carmen Trudeau won first place with her nature photo (inset) Photo courtesy of Facebook

The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) is exhibiting Honouring and To Ukraine…with Love at the Centre, featuring artworks by acrylic artist, Chrissy Sie-Merritt and oil and charcoal artist, Rachel Cholet. The exhibit opens to the public for viewing until May 26. The exhibit will also be made available for viewing online at steinbacharts.ca.

Chrissy Sie-Merritt describes herself as an explorer of the sacredness of being. She expresses a passion for peeling away the layers of self and honours this process through her art practice. Her work is one of a personal healing journey.

Intuitively, she creates marks using her whole body to express a moment in time or sits in quiet to allow ideas and images to rise from within. This physical conversation with the ebb and flow of life is her impetus to go deeper, exploring our connection to the natural rhythms of the world around and within us. These images are expressed with both charcoal and acrylic.

Rachel Cholet is a local artist who was born in France and has split her time between Canada and France. She discovered oil painting early on after completing some paint by numbers as a child. This sparked a lifetime love of oil painting that can be easily seen in her work. Rachel accepts commissions, teaches classes, and paints murals. She has won many Juried Art Shows along the years.

“I am always struck at the beauty of our Hall Gallery Exhibits,” said David Klassen, Director of Programming at the Steinbach Arts Council. “This latest installation is no exception. It is heartfelt, powerful, and causes passersby to stop and take in the incredible images. The honesty and deep feeling in every piece is evident. SAC is thrilled to support the work of both gifted artists.”

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May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Construction Begins on Major Addition to École St. Malo School Construction will begin later this spring on a $16.1-million major renovation and addition to École St. Malo School.

“Advancing education starts with making investments that will improve school infrastructure to support better learning,” said Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Wayne Ewasko.

“This project will help École St. Malo School meet growing enrollment needs and curriculum delivery, along with improvements to essential school facilities.”

Penn Co. was awarded the construction contract.

The project includes work on approximately 23,000 sq. ft. of area comprised of 10 new classrooms, a new gymnasium and multi-purpose space, fire and life safety upgrades, a new life-skills, resource and guidance suite, and renovations required within existing spaces to connect and upgrade required services and utilities.

“We are thrilled and excited to share the news of this project with our students, staff and community of St. Malo,” said Brad Curtis, superintendent and CEO, Red River Valley School Division. “This project would not be possible without the financial support from the Manitoba government, as its cost represents nearly 50 per cent of the annual divisional operating budget.”

Currently, 248 students between Kindergarten and Grade 8 attend École St. Malo School. The school is at capacity with some students requiring transportation outside their neighbourhoods, being housed in temporary modular classrooms, straining existing school infrastructure and amenities such as gym and library access, noted the minister. The project will improve the delivery of educational programs by eliminating the need to use modular classroom units, reducing the crowding of existing school facilities and improving accessibility to the gym and library.

“This major classroom addition will not only meet the needs of the current student body but will also allow for future growth in the community,” said Curtis. “We look forward to having all of our students and staff together again in one building.”

Ewasko noted the project will also meet the Manitoba Green Building Policy, incorporating sustainable design and energy efficiency initiatives. The school is being constructed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver standards or better. LEED provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient and cost-saving green buildings of all building types and all building phases including new construction, interiors, operations and maintenance, and core and shell.

Design work is also underway for a new Kindergarten to Grade 4 school in Steinbach.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

The Truck Got Stuck

Hey! Guess what! It’s raining... again... and again. While I do like a nice rain, I do believe that I’ve had enough of it for the next month, or two. I can also appreciate the fact that the rain that is falling is not frozen. I am so glad that it is not snowing, I’m really done with that fluffy white stuff as it too did not realize that it should call it a season and move on, I hear the North Pole could use some more snow and ice.

I am thankful that I have a nice, warm house to spend my time in as it rains but, sadly, my driveway has nowhere to go to get out of this rain. Laying there amongst the grass and trees, my poor driveway

must endure this constant falling of rain.

For the most part, my driveway is holding up but, right in the middle of its’ seven hundred foot length is a massive mud hole.

Thankfully, we haven’t lost any children to it but the car and the truck did get close to getting sucked in.

Figuring that it was time to take care of this mud-monster, we ordered in a dump truck load of a-base to help fill it up. It was to arrive the next day in the afternoon. Perfect. I could come home and spend my evening spreading it around to fix the issue. Arriving home that day, I was able to see quite quickly that the load of a-base had not arrived. Giving the company a call proved fruitless as they did not return our call nor did they call to tell us that it was not coming as planned.

Sigh, when will businesses learn not to upset their customers?

The following morning at about 7:15, the driver found our driveway, backed into the mud hole and promptly got stuck.

Answering our phone to find this out from the driver, we gave him the go-ahead to dump where he was so that he could get out of the hole without the weight of the abase holding his truck down. After dump-

ing the load, the driver quickly drove off and was gone from sight.

I am glad that now I have the a-base to spread and pray that the rain stops long enough for the driveway to dry up and become useable. However, I am a little ticked off that the business could not be bothered to contact us to let us know about the change in delivery dates and that they felt it was a wise decision to dump a load of a-base on a driveway before a man could leave for work. Essentially, blocking the entire width of the driveway. Had they come in the afternoon before as planned, I would’ve been a happy customer. Now, I was forced to call my work and let them know that I would be late getting to work. I headed out to the hill of a-base and managed to move enough of it so as to allow myself, and later my wife, to exit from our yard.

I believe that I will be contacting this business to discuss my feelings as to their level of service and, if I am not satisfied, I do believe that I will be in the market for a better run, more customer friendly company to deal with.

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

RM Private Well Water Testing Days Well Water Testing Days are back and the Seine-Rat-Roseau Water District will be assisting residents with private well water testing for the presence of E. coli and coliform bacteria. Make sure to get your sample and drop it off on May 19 or June 16 at one of the locations listed.

The provincially subsidized cost of private well water testing is $25 including tax (regular rate is $30). Each legal location is eligible for one sample per well at the subsidized rate.

Payment may be submitted by cash or cheque only. Cheques must be made payable to Horizon Lab Ltd. Horizon Lab is also offering a new expedited service.

Customers can pay an extra $10 to have their bacteria water test report sent by the following business day.

Water sample bottles and application forms can be picked up in advance at your participating RM office. Water samples must be taken on the same day as the drop-off. Drop your water sample off at your participating RM office prior to 10 am, along with your completed Chain of Custody and SRRWD Application forms.

Only those samples that are accompanied by correct payment and completed forms will be accepted. Call 204-3261030 or email info@srrwd.ca for more information.

Drop-off Locations: ∙ City of Steinbach, 154 Friesen Ave., Steinbach ∙ RM of La Broquerie, 123 Simard St., La Broquerie

∙ RM of Ste. Anne, 395 Traverse Rd., Ste. Anne ∙ RM of Hanover, 28 Westland Dr., Mitchell ∙ RM of De Salaberry, 466 Sabourin St., St. Pierre-Jolys ∙ Town of Niverville, 329 Bronson Dr., Niverville ∙ RM of Taché, 28007 MUN 52N (Corner of Hwy 206 and PTH #1) ∙ RM of Ritchot, 352 Main St., St. Adolphe ∙ RM of Stuartburn, 108 Main St. N, Vita ∙ RM of Emerson-Franklin, 115 Waddell Ave. E., Dominion City ∙ RM of Piney, 6092 Boundary St., Vassar

Steinbach Family Resource Centre Opens Registration for “Little Family Garden”

By Angelique Forest The Steinbach Family Resource Centre is running a program geared towards families with young children, families without access to green space, and families new to our climate who are interested in learning more about sustainable gardening for food!

The “Little Family Garden” is a weekly garden program which includes a square foot garden and instruction on companion gardening, Manitoba growing climate, growing season, weeding, compost, pests, harvesting, and more!

Are you wanting to learn how to garden in Manitoba? Don’t have your own garden space? This is the program for that!

You can email info@steinbachfrc.ca to sign up. Space is limited.

Additionally, “Coping With Change” is open for Registration! This 6 week program supports moms after the birth of a new baby, to connect moms with others who are going through the same family changes and challenges.

Do you have a baby and need to use a breastpump? SFRC rents hospital grade breast pumps! These are a great way to check or increase your milk supply, or pump breastmilk while you are away from your baby longer than a regular feeding schedule. Fees are $20/week, or reduced rates for families attending Centre programs! Check out more programs on their website at steinbachfrc.ca.

Fundraiser Steinbach Family Resource Centre

has also teamed up with a local coffee roasting company, Stone City Coffee Roasters in order to create a fundraiser.

Purchase a best-selling bag of coffee for $20, what better way to say, Happy Mother’s Day to that special parent in your life? Available at their Centre Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm.

Job Opportunity Looking for a job opportunity?

There are summer positions available for summer event and program assistants thanks to funding from the Manitoba Métis Federation. Applications are open to returning students who are Métis aged 15-30. Email resume and cover letter to director@ steinbachfrc.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

How Was Your Income Tax Outcome?

How did your income taxes go this year? Was your refund smaller than normal? Did you end up paying taxes for a change?

There were two changes to the 2021 tax returns that impacted almost everyone.

Climate Action Incentive First, the federal government announced that the Climate Action Incentive (CAI) sometimes referred to as the carbon tax rebate will no longer be paid as a refundable tax credit (refund). Up until last tax season, the CAI was added to your tax refund, or reduced the amount of tax you had to pay. The amount varied from $360 for an individual taxpayer to $540 for a couple and added another $90 per child under 18. And those of us in the rural received an extra 10%.

When you filed your 2021 tax return, this rebate was not part of your tax refund. Your usual tax refund was likely hundreds of dollars less.

If you already receive GST credits, you are familiar with getting benefits on a quarterly basis. The CAI will be similar.

The CAI payments will be paid at the beginning of each quarter (April-June, July-September, etc).

Since CRA needs to develop the new system, the April payment will be added to the July payment so taxpayers will receive two quarters early July 2022.

The Climate Action Incentive, much like the GST credit, will be paid to the spouse whose tax return is assessed first by CRA. The CAI payment is not income tested like the GST credit is, so everyone (or every family) will receive it. Make sure CRA has your banking info on file so you don’t miss a payment!

MB Education Property Tax Credit The change in the property tax credit also reduced your refund.

Those tax payers, who rent, noticed a change on their income taxes. The normal $700 refundable credit based on rent paid has decreased to $525.

So, your tax refund was smaller by $175; or you may have owed more than you normally do.

Those of us with owned property noticed this when we received our property tax bills during the summer or fall of 2021: the credit was reduced from $700 to $525. But we did receive the Education Property Tax Rebate cheque for 25% of the school tax portion of our property tax bill.

So overall our net costs for our property taxes are lower than they were in previous years.

Those living in Paradise Village and other similar mobile home parks did not receive the 25% rebate cheque since they do not own the land. The landowner did receive the rebate and did attend the municipal office to ensure all mobile homeowners did receive their share of the rebate.

Those individual homeowners received a credit worth 25% of the school tax portion of the tax bill.

You may only see this when you pay next years’ 2022 property taxes.

Changing Your Tax Outcome If you are unhappy with your outcome, you can make some changes for 2022. If you want to have a larger refund, or instead of paying you want to have a refund, you can increase the tax deducted on your income.

If you have employment income, you can ask your employer to increase the tax deducted on your income by providing them a new

TD1 Personal tax credits.

If you have pension income, you can request more tax be deducted from your monthly income. This can also work like a “forced” savings plan if you want to save money for yourself next Spring. I have some clients that do this intentionally so they have money each summer for property tax bills or home or auto insurance or vacation.

Too Much Refund You can reduce your refund and have more money in your pocket monthly by reducing the tax deducted. This is most common for seniors who have tax deducted on CPP and/or OAS. If you have large refunds every year, you can reduce the tax deducted so you have your money each month instead.

If you use your refund to pay off credit card debt, you should probably change your tax outcome so you have your money each month to pay your debts, instead of paying extra in interest costs.

Self Employed A reminder that those that have small business income to include on their personal tax returns have until June 15 to file. This applies to their spouses too.

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 or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Co-op) or info@sataxes.ca.

Nominations Open for Steinbach Chamber Business Excellence Awards Have you experienced amazing customer service? Do you know of a business that is always supporting fundraising efforts or community events? Is there a young entrepreneur that you think will be a future leader in our community?

The Steinbach Chamber of Commerce is now accepting public nominations for the 2022 Business Excellence Awards.

“Coming out of a tough two years, it is more important than ever to recognize and celebrate business success and community involvement in Steinbach,” said Michelle Bezditny, Executive Director of the Steinbach Chamber.

“Steinbach is a unique city, and the Chamber’s Business Excellence Awards acknowledge the significant role business plays in making our community incredible.”

The public is encouraged to submit nominations in five categories: Business of the Year, Customer Service, Community Involvement, Future Leader, and Non-Profit Excellence. Nominations are accepted online on the Chamber website steinbachchamber.com, until May 24.

An independent selection committee, consisting of community members, carefully reviews and

evaluates submissions and selects recipients in the Business of the Year, Community Involvement, Future Leader, and Non-Profit Excellence categories.

The Customer Service Award is awarded by way of public vote.

The public will be asked to go to the Chamber’s website between June 16 and July 14 to select the business they feel is most deserving of the Customer Service Award. The nominee with the highest number of unique public votes receives the award. Award recipients will be announced and awards presented on September 27.

May 2022

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Where Heaven Begins The smile and smell of a newborn baby, snuggling securely in your arms straight from Heaven.

The glistening dew resting on a blade of grass as sparkling

By Arlene Derksen diamonds on a brand new morning. The majestic song of a Whip-poor-will echoing through the still of the evening sky. The cool gentle breeze of a Prairie wind caressing ones sun-kissed cheeks on a hot summer day The crackle of a late night fire on the shores of the lake at dusk, the sounds of a lonely Loon’s caressing serenity echoing under a spectacular display of dancing Northern Lights.

A mama robin tugging at its latest juicy worm amidst the earthy smell of the dirt it came from.

The sounds of a lawn mower in a childhood neighbourhood accompanied by the aroma of freshly mowed sweet-smelling mounds of grass.

The sounds of Sunday morning country gospel time locked far away in the corners of my mind.

The start of a day stamped of family.

The taste of a cold freshly poured bubbling glass of Mountain Dew from vintage green bottles on a hot summer day, taking a break from hauling bails from the alfalfa fields on a farmstead tucked deep within my heart.

Watching a long-lost soul coming home and come up out of that pond, the cool water streaming down their beaming face as the preacher finishes with “and raised to have new life”.

The wide-open tiny mouths; bodies cuddling closely in their nest, watching their mama Robin drop a morsel in each one intentionally with much necessity and satisfaction.

The sounds of a century old hymn, “It Is Well with My Soul” croon across the old country church with the voices of many, gathered to sing their praises on a Sunday morning in unison.

The taste of an icy cold cup of water touching your lips on the hottest summer day.

The sounds of the steady rain on a metal roof above a favourite chair… eyes closed as the sounds of the distant thunder threatens its magic to complete the picture.

The view half-closed eyes see, as one peeks across the table as family gathers around a long harvest table, almost too many bowed heads to count, as the old fashioned ham and potato salad along with all the trimmings fill the table end to end.

And then, there are the large tufts of white fluffy clouds, sailing across the blue sky, wondering what it will be like when Heaven will meet Earth, as we His children will meet Him in the air someday.

That may be where Heaven begins.

And yet all of this doesn’t even come close to, where the real Heaven begins. Don’t ever want to minimize Heaven. But what it does do, is touch our hearts, our souls, our minds, and gives us Hope, Joy and happiness in the moment.

And when we can experience these and more in the moment that which threatens to hurt our hearts, pierce our souls; cannot.

And we taste a piece of the Abundant Life promised to us by our God, who is the centre of our hopes in all our moments.

We can then begin to taste Joy…peace…love in the midst of a fallen world. And that is where Heaven begins.

In The Moment

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May 2022

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

In Praise of All the Staff That Make the Ste. Anne Hospital Such a Unique Caring Place Dear Editor How shall I start…?

A while ago I noticed that my liquid discharge should not be bright red.

But being not a spring chicken I am not a panicky type. But a few hours later, the same occurred and it was time to get to the bottom (pun intended) of it.

So, my dear wife of 64 years drove us to our local Ste Anne Hospital.

It took a little waiting to get checked in, but soon I was now a patient in the ICU Department.

Among the nurses attending to me were some rather young ladies who were practising or had already graduated to be a Registered Nurse or some who continued their studies to attain their Bachelor of Nursing-certification.

But what impressed me-so much that those young people had to be the cream of the crop. They are already professionals in their chosen vocations.

The attention and care bestowed upon their patients by day or by night is nothing other than Love.

Be aware that I respect you from the depth of my heart.

With love, Louis Baltus

Province Invests in Organizations to Support Settlement Services for Newcomers Ukrainian Refugees Could Benefit from Program Earlier this year, the Manitoba government issued a call for applications to service delivery organizations, including the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce, that directly support newcomers, drive labour market attachment and contribute to the economic growth in the province. This funding process ensures a range of settlement providers can apply for government support for their projects, noted Manitoba, Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration Minister Jon Reyes.

“As refugees from Ukraine begin to arrive in Manitoba, this investment will help build a network of services and a community of care supports for all newcomers right across the province,” said Reyes. “This investment also aligns with the Economic Growth

Action Plan and the Skills, Talent and Knowledge Strategy to ensure newcomers are able to participate fully in the community and contribute to a growing economy.”

Manitoba Start a not-for-profit organization with core funding from the Government of Canada and the Government of Manitoba continues to receive an annual amount of $3 million to provide services that connect newcomers to settlement, orientation, language and employment services.

The province is providing the other $2.1 million to 14 organizations for settlement projects across the province including Economic Development Council for Manitoba Bilingual Municipalities; Family Dynamics; Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba Inc.; Immigrant Centre

Manitoba Inc.; Manitoba Interfaith Immigration Council Inc.; Mosaic Newcomer Family Resource Network Incorporated; Newcomers Employment and Education Development Services Inc.; North West Regional Immigrant Services Inc.; Portage Learning and Literacy Centre Inc.; Regional Connections Immigrant Services; Société de la francophonie manitobaine (SFM); Steinbach Chamber of Commerce; and Westman Immigrant Services.

“The Manitoba government recognizes that immigration is a key priority for the province, particularly as we recover from the pandemic,” said Reyes. “Settlement services that support the meaningful integration of newcomers help drive our economy by supporting stronger and longer-term economic attachment and newcomer retention.”

Steinbach to Receive Funding for Mobilization, Community Safety and Well-Being Manitoba is investing $1.3 million to support the Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Planning Pilot Project to develop local CSWB plans and implement local safety priorities in multiple Manitoba communities.

The CSWB Planning Pilot Project will focus on 12 Manitoba communities including Steinbach.

“Research shows that community safety and well-being planning

supports a collaborative approach to addressing local priority risks to safety and well-being by establishing programs and strategies in four planning areas including social development, prevention, risk intervention and incident response,” said Steinbach MLA and Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen. “This proactive planning process can help communities reduce crime and other risks using evidenced-based

responses that address unique local circumstances and the needs of residents.”

The CSWB Planning Pilot Project aligns with Manitoba’s Policing and Public Safety Strategy announced in May 2019, which identified the need to focus on communities with high rates of violence, alleviate extraneous demands on police and enhance community mobilization, the minister noted.

RCMP Set for Massive “Sweep” After Issuing a Number of “Warrants” Steinbach RCMP has issued warrants for a number of prominent local community leaders in a comical fundraising initiative of the Rotary Club of South Eastman.

On May 12, an RCMP sweep will take place to a special holding cell that will be set up in Clearspring Centre to bring these ‘offenders’ to justice.

Detainees include Past Mayor Chris Goertzen, Cyndy Friesen, Corny Rempel, and many more.

“Our purpose as a club is to connect and make a difference,” said Past President of South Eastman Rotary Club, Leonard Klassen who is organizing this event with the support of the club. “The need for helping others is always great. This year, we felt called to

help our local community and our sister city in Ukraine.”

The mandate of the South Eastman Rotary is to make a difference at home and afar. They are a group of passionate community members giving back to local and international causes through service and fellowship.

Donations raised will support Soup’s On Steinbach and The Relief Efforts in Ukraine through the Friends of the Mennonite Centre in Ukraine.

Donations may be made out to South Eastman Rotary Club.

Jail Break in support of International Relief.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Richert Wins in Hungary

Former Niverville area resident; David Richert won the recent Drexler Automotive Formula 3 race in Hungary.

The Canadian national anthem was played on the podium in Hungary as former Niverville area resident; David Richert won the recent Drexler Automotive Formula 3 race.

The weekend got off to a shaky start at Hungaroring, just outside of Budapest, as both car and health issues forced Richert to miss all 3 practice sessions for the weekend.

Saturday started with pouring rain for qualifying and in the afternoon Richert managed to move up positions and finish 2nd in the first race of the weekend.

Race 2 took place on Sunday under sunny skies and this time Richert was able to push his way to the front with a

pass for the lead on the penultimate lap of the race.

“The weekend was a blur and on Friday I wasn’t even sure if we would be able to complete the races,” said Richert. “So to not only participate, but also come away with a victory, it’s a very satisfying finish to a tough weekend.”

About a week later, Richert managed to finish 2nd in both Drexler Automotive Formula 3 Cup races in Monza in Italy.

Technical issues with the car’s paddle shifting system meant Richert missed virtually all of both practice sessions and was unable to post a representative time in the only qualifying session of the weekend.

Submitted photo

Forced to use a stick shift for the races, Richert was able to claw his way back to claim two podium finishes and maintain his narrow championship lead. Although originally classified as 3rd in Race 1, Richert was promoted to 2nd after the race.

“Although I’m a bit disappointed I wasn’t able to fight for the win, I am really happy to come away with a couple of good results after the technical issues we faced all weekend,” said Richert. “Thanks to Franz Woess Racing and everyone back at home for the continued support.”

Richert’s next race will be in Italy at the historic Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola from May 6 - 8.

Workplace Injury Results in Fine for Blumenort Business Manitoba Labour, Consumer Protection and Government Services has fined a Blumenort area company after investigating an incident where one of their employees was injured.

On October 9, 2019, a worker employed

by Skyline Harvest Corporation was working in a cornfield near Hanover when they were struck by the bucket attachment of a

12-tonne excavator, resulting in a spinal fracture. The employer had not ensured workers were wearing personal protective equipment and the worker was not visible to the operator of the excavator.

Officials from Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) conducted an investigation and laid charges under the act.

On February 17, 2022, Skyline Har-

vest Corporation pleaded guilty to failing to develop and implement safe work procedures for the use of personal protective equipment in the workplace. A fine of $6,500 was imposed by the court with an additional $1,500 penalty to be paid to WSH for the purpose of educating the public about occupational injury and illness prevention.

Piney and Buffalo Point Partner to Explore Transit Solution for Seniors The RM of Piney and Buffalo Point First Nation have jointly submitted an application for the purchase of a community van.

As noted in their Spring 2021 Transit Plan Phase I, this type of funding is required to make transit viable in their region.

Results of this federal grant are not expected until late Fall 2022.

In the meantime, representatives throughout the RM of Piney and Buffalo Point First Nation will be sought to identify expectations and logistics for the potential community service van.

If you are interested in participating or have any other questions, please email CGpiney@gmail.com or call the RM of

Piney office at 204-437-2284.

Their transit goal is to provide a sustainable, cost-effective mode of travel for seniors and others who could benefit from the service to be able to continue to live in southeastern Manitoba communities and have access to services, to socialize, to work and to learn.

May 2022

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May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Finding Hope in Life’s Unexpected Difficulties Have you ever wondered what awaits you at the end of your life’s journey? Knowing some of the blessings gives us incentive to carry on.

In the 1800’s, Wendell Phillips was deeply devoted to his disabled wife but his work often took him out of town. At the close of one of his lectures in a town several miles from home, his friends urged him to wait till morning to return home.

The weather was stormy and could be hazardous on horseback. Wendell’s reply was, “But at the other end of those miles I shall find my beloved Anne.”

Several years ago, while I was going to university in Guelph, Ontario, I would hitchhike home every 2-3 weeks to see my girlfriend.

One winter there was a bad storm. I thought I had all bases covered; this time I had a ride scheduled all the way. However, because of the storm, my driver cancelled. So I put on my bright coloured University of Guelph coat and hitchhiked 150 miles in a blizzard. It was cold, windy and my one eye froze shut. But it was all worth it when I got home to see my girlfriend! (Next year we will be married 50 years).

Our lives often have trials and unexpected difficulties and challenges. It is easy to get bogged down, discouraged and sometimes even wonder, “Is it worth it all?” If we live any length of time we will all face some of these obstacles in life. But for the Christian who has received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour, there is a double blessing. He has promised to help bear our burdens down here (1 Peter 5:7) but best of all; He has gone on to Heaven to prepare a place for us to live for eternity when this journey down here on earth is over. John 4:2 calls our final home a mansion. Jesus Christ has even promised to return and take all living Christians (at that time) to Heaven to be with Him forever.

All Christians can be encouraged to weather any storm. Knowing that at the end, we will see our Lord face to face. There’s an old hymn that says, “It will be worth it all when we see Jesus.”

Dear Friend, do you have this hope today? Are you sure where you’ll spend eternity? If not, why not trust Christ as your Saviour today and He will not only enable and encourage you now, but will give you hope for the end of this life’s journey.

Sprague RCMP Remind Drivers to Drive Responsibly to Avoid “Financial Reminders” Traffic in the RM of Piney is picking up for the season and the Sprague RCMP want to remind everyone they will be out, and visible on the roadways to conduct traffic enforcement.

“Most violations we’re seeing are simple things, like stopping at stop signs, speeding, and failing to wear a seatbelt,” explained Cpl. Richard Graham with the Sprague Detachment. “All of [these] are leading causes of accidents, and contribute to increased motor vehicle fatalities.”

“We don’t work on commission however, sometimes a ticket has a lasting impression on drivers, and encourages a change in behaviour,” added Graham. “Ultimately that’s what we want to see. Let’s all work together to keep our roadways safe, and reduce the number of ‘Financial Reminders’ we have to hand out to people this season.

Follow the rules of the road, and get to your destination safely!”

Graham wants to remind everyone that according to MPI, on average 23 people are killed on Manitoba Highways every year due to speeding.

Thank you for your support in the 50/50 for Kids!

It was indeed a successful fundraiser which will support this year’s operations and improvements of Steinbach Arts Council’s free After School Arts Program.

Did you buy tickets? To find out if you’re the grand prize winner of the 50/50 for Kids for the free After School Arts Program, go to SteinbachArts.Ca. Watch Out for Summer Arts Day Camps: The ever-popular Summer Arts Day Camps are currently being planned for Summer 2022! Gain access to the most sought-after creative summer camps in Steinbach, and experience music, drama, dance, crafts, games, sports, field trips, swimming, and of course, new friends. Each week is a unique theme for your kids to enjoy! For more details visit steinbacharts.ca or call 204-346-1077 to get on the call list for registration.

Erin Propp & Larry Roy in Concert: The Juno-nominated musicians come to Steinbach to play live at the Grace Mennonite Church on May 5 at 7:30 pm. Together, Erin Propp and Larry Roy create gorgeously crafted jazz/folk works with wide appeal.Erin and Larry’s musical abilities are tools of exacting expression, and they can do it all - from charming intimate jazz club sets, to moving concert hall performances. This is a show

you won’t want to miss! Buy your tickets to secure your spot now at steinbacharts.ca or call Tara at 204-346-1077.

Arts4Tots Pre-school Program Registration Open: Are you looking for a creative preschool program for your tots? Then look no further. Arts4Tots is a Montessori-inspired preschool program that offers a creative environment to learn, make new friends and have fun. We presently offer Monday/ Wednesday and Tuesday/Thursday sessions in the mornings from 9 -11:30 am and in the afternoons from 1 -3:30 pm. Visit our website for more information or call Roxie at 204-346-1077.

Hall Gallery Exhibits at the Steinbach Arts Council: The Steinbach Arts Council presents two exhibits for the month of April and May, entitled “Honouring” by Chrissy Sie-Merritt and “To Ukraine…With Love” by Rachel Cholet.

Chrissy Sie-Merritt expresses a passion for peeling away the layers of self and honours this process through her art practice. These images are expressed through charcoal and acrylic.

Rachel is a local artist born in France who paints with oil. Rachel Cholet wants to dedicate her exhibit to Ukraine, bringing awareness to the ongoing conflict, and supporting the many brave Ukrainian people who face unimaginable terror of war.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

You can view these exhibits until May 26 or online at steinbacharts. ca/virtual-gallery.

Membership: It’s time to renew your SAC membership and receive great benefits.

Are you a previous SAC Member?

Don’t forget to renew your membership today! Anyone can be a SAC Member to enjoy the amazing benefits for you in appreciation of your support and you can use these benefits when you purchase a membership with us. It’s easy. Buy your membership online at steinbacharts.ca or call 204-346-1077.

Cost $15 for individual residents; $20 for individual non-residents; $30 for family resident and $35 for family non-resident.

2021-22 SAC Member Perks: - 10% off at Santa Lucia Pizza (Steinbach location); - 10% off at Coffee Culture (Steinbach location); - 10% off at Za Pizza (Steinbach location); - 10% off at Chicken Chef (Steinbach location); - 10% off at Old Church Bakery; - 15% off at Janzen’s Paint & Decorating (all art supplies) - $2 off a 10lb box of farmer sausage from Country Meat Deli; Discounts on SAC Concert Series Package; - 10% discount on SAC additional attractions, concerts, and events as stated; - Reduced rental fees at SAC; - Voting privileges at AGM.

Sexual Assault Charges Laid Against Ste. Anne Teacher A letter sent to parents of students who attend the Pointe-des-Chênes school in Ste. Anne from the FrancoManitoban School Division (DSFM) has shocked many as they discovered a teacher was removed and charged with sexual assault and interference.

Ste. Anne Police confirmed that

Jacques Normandeau will appear in a Steinbach court to answer to the charges on June 16.

According to the DSFM letter to parents, they have deployed a Student Services team to the school to support students and staff who may be affected.

They also told parents that they would not comment on the case as it is before the court but assured they would follow the developments closely.

Anyone that has any information related to the incident is asked to contact the Ste. Anne Police.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2022

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Challenge from Christ

Current Programming: All indoor programming requires pre-registration Call 204-320-4600.

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

Cards/Games - Monday to Thursday, (Monday Bridge, Tuesday Yahtzee, Wednesday Crib, Thursday Domino from 1- 3 pm and Friday 10 am – 1 pm, Phase 10. Cost Member $2/ Non-Member $4.

Drumming – Tuesday, 1 - 1:45 pm. Member $2/ Non-Member $4.

Badminton – Wednesday, 12 - 3 pm. Preregister at patporteralc.com. Member $2/ Non-Member $4.

Pace - Wednesday, 1 - 1:45 pm. Preregister. Member $2/ Non-Member $4.

Old Time Country Jam – Wednesday, 7 - 9 pm. Member $2/ Non-Member $4.

Pickleball - Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 9 am -12:30 pm. Register at patporteralc.com. Member $2/ Non-Member $4.

Beginner Pickleball – Tuesday and Thursday, 2 - 4 pm. Register at patporteralc. com. Member $2/ Non-Member $4.

Yoga with Carrie – Friday, 9 – 10 am.

Save the Date: Annual AGM & Volunteer Appreciation – On June 23, featuring “The Cracked Eggshell” Dance – On May 27 from 7– 11 pm. Band to be announced. Cost $12 for members, $15 for non-members. Tickets available now. No outside food and drinks.

Dinner with Entertainment – On May 31 from 6 – 9 pm. Join us for a nice dinner with entertainment from “The Cats Advice”. $15 per person, call to reserve your spot 204-320-4600.

May is for Mother’s – On Friday, May 13 at 1:30 pm. Spend time with the special Mom in your life. Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea and a special treat. Additional guests $4, call to reserve your spot.

Painting Class – On Tuesday, May 24 at 1:30 pm. Join local artist Doug Enns for a painting workshop suitable for all skill levels. All supplies are provided with a registration fee of $20 for members or $25 for non-members. Call 204-320-4600 to register.

Steinbach Rockin’ Rollers - Sundays from 5 – 7 pm. No skill required! No Roller Skating on May 8. A fun new roller skating program 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 and proof of vaccination. We hope to see you there!

Cinco de Mayo - On Thursday, May 5 at 12 pm you’re invited to Ole’! Amigos for a Mexican Fiesta Lunch. Enjoy the flavors of Mexico featuring Enchiladas and Mexican rice, pico de Gallo and Tacos. Ticket $10

per person. Order to eat in, delivered or pickup. Call 204-320-4600, Order deadline, Friday April 29.

French Toast with Ham Breakfast – On Thursday, May 26, 9:30 am – 12 pm. $7 per person.

Start your morning off with a stack of pancakes and sausage from our Meals on Wheels kitchen. Stop by at the Centre anytime between 9:30 am and 12 pm to grab your stack!

Parkinson Canada Support Group – On May 19 from 1:30 – 3 pm at Pat Porter Active Living Centre. People living with Parkinson’s. For more information or to join, contact 1-800-565-3000.

Perogies - Potato- Cheddar and Cottage Cheese, freshly made and for sale.

Handmade by staff at the Centre, these perogies are delicious and ready to be enjoyed. $7 per dozen. Please call 204320-4600 to order.

Memberships Now’s the time to purchase your 2022 membership at $30 each. Stop by the Centre to purchase yours. Why become a member?

- Decreased program rates.

- Discounts on special events.

- Discount on rentals of the building.

- Voting privileges at the Annual General Meeting.

- Supports the Centre directly so we can continue to provide programs, activities and services to you!

Foot & Calf Massage By appointment. Treat your feet and calves to a relaxing massage. Our massage machines emulate the same techniques used by massage professionals and are a wonderful treat to incorporate into your day. Appointments last 30 minutes and are $2 for members and $4 for non-members. Call 204-320-4600 and treat your feet today!

Laughter for Health & Happiness Join us weekly on Mondays from 1- 2 pm. Laughter Yoga with Pearl is a movement and breathing exercise, which aims to bring out your inner child, cultivate joy and help you get rid of daily stressors. $2 for members, $4 for non-members, registration required call 204-320-4600.

Clinics Footcare - Licensed Footcare Nurses will take care of your feet and make sure they stay healthy. Call 204-320-4600 to make an appointment.

Hearing Clinic - Call 1-800-661-2653 to make an appointment.

Breast Cancer Screening Clinic – From May 2 to 22 at Pat Porter Active Living Centre. Woman 50 years and older. Call 1-855-952-4325 for your appointment Call 1-855-952-4325 for your appointment.

Tax Clinic - For low income individuals and families. Call 204-989-1913; toll free 1-833-215-3359, Community Financial Counselling Services.

Rentals We have rooms of a variety of sizes and prices. For pricing and room availability visit online patporteralc.com, email programs@patporteralc.com or call 204320-4600.

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 $7 for delivery (residents of Steinbach & Grunthal) or pickup. A meal includes soup, a main dish, sides and dessert. Please call 204320-4600 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 patporteralc.com for a full price list. Services are available Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm. To book a ride, call 204-3264055. If your call is not answered, leave a message with the answering service. Appointments must be booked in advance to ensure availability.

Community Resources Transportation Program, Equipment Loan program, Friendly Visitor program, ERIK. Please call 204-320-4600 if you require access to any of these resources.

Circle of Friends Adult Day Program Our Circle of Friends program is designed to strengthen an individual’s ability to continue to function in their homes as well as remain active in the community. The program runs twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm.

Transportation can be arranged through Steinbach Handi Van. We have lots of coffee and snacks; participate in light exercise and arts and crafts or games. We often have special guests who perform live music and go out for lunch in the community. For more information, please call 204-320-4600.

Volunteering All volunteer positions require a Criminal Record Check. To find out how you can help, call 204-320-4600 or email programs@patporteralc.com.

For more information on our programs, activities or volunteer opportunities Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm. Call Sonja at 204320-4603 or the reception desk at 204-320-4600.

Ritchot Recreation Hosts Art Classes and More in Grande-Pointe

By Angelique Forest Ritchot Recreation is hosting a series of events called “Do you want to make Art?” located in the Grande-Pointe Park Clubhouse at 423 Bernat Road in Grande Pointe. The events are held every Thursday from May 5 to June 2.

Children 6 years and up are welcome from 4 to 5:15 pm, the youth and adults 15 years and up are invited to join from 6 pm to 7:15 pm.

Upcoming classes include, screen printing t-shirts (May 12); glazing ceramics (May 26); and painting (June 2).

The classes are free of charge and funded by the Canadian Council for the Arts. All materials are provided by Art City.

For updates, registration and more information visit ritchot.com/p/programs.

Mark 8:34-37… 34) Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.

35) For whoever wants to save their life[a] will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36) What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? 37) Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? (NIV) Jesus certainly was not like our modern-day TV Evangelists.

I can never say an Evangelist tricked me into believing Christ.

Jesus never tried to bribe people with the offer of wealth, or all the easy things that life might bring. He did not even offer us peace; He did, however; offer us glory.

He told us that we must be ready to accept the Cross of Christ, and when we do, we might just be marked for life and suffer miserably for it. Jesus never sought to lure his followers to him by offering them all that easy stuff; what he did was to challenge us, to awaken the sleeping courage deep in our souls. He came not to make life easy but to make Christian men, women, girls, and boys great in the eyes of God. Christ was not the kind of leader who sat far off and played with the lives of people.

What he demanded, what we should face, he, too, was ready to face. He has every right to call on us to accept a cross, for he himself went to the cross to die that we could have eternal life.

Our Scripture lesson we have Jesus challenging the men who would be his disciples. And the first thing he tells them to do is, “Let them deny themselves.” In other words, “Let us say no to ourselves.” Now if a person wants to follow Jesus Christ, we must say no to ourselves and yes to Christ.

In other words, we must say no to our own natural love of things that are against God’s laws. You mean I cannot tell halftruths. If I always must be completely truthful, how do you expect me to sell… say my house, my car, my condominium, or whatever else that I might want to sell? We must, however, say no to the instincts and the desires which prompt us to play with half truths, because half truths will come back to bite us. We must say no to the instincts and the desires to touch, taste and manage the forbidden things of life… those things we know for certain which are against God’s laws.

But we must, however; say yes to the voice and the commands of Jesus Christ. We must be able to say, that it is no longer we who are in control of our lives, but the power of the Holy Spirit that lives within us. That means we follow the will of Christ, we must learn to be completely truthful, and believe that he will guide us in any given situation and when we do that, we will find perfect freedom.

Suppose we do that which is not honourable; and we go for the half truth. We say yes to the instincts and the desires to touch, taste and manage the forbidden things of life. Now suppose that we gain the entire world because we have always lived on the shady side of life. Then suppose we find out that life is not worth living any more. What can we give to undo the damage done? The grim truth is that we cannot redeem that moment in time.

In every decision of life, we are doing something to ourselves; we are making ourselves a certain person; we are building up steadily and inevitable a certain kind of character; we are making ourselves able to do certain things and unable to do those things which are bad for us. It is perfectly possible for a person to gain all the things they set their heart on and then to awaken one morning to find that they have missed the most important things in life.

A person may sacrifice eternity for the moment. However, we could avoid all kinds of mistakes if we always looked at things in the light of eternity. What is pleasant for the moment, but oh so painful later in life. A person who gets their wealth by unjust means, will lose their riches at the end of life, becoming nothing but a poor fool The test of eternity, the test of looking to see the things as God sees it, is the greatest test of all. The person who sees things as God sees them will never spend their life on things that cost salvation. But on the other hand, salvation, the way to heaven, comes to us when we put away the shady things in life and put our trust in Jesus Christ, 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 honor Your Name. Amen.”

20

May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

C ommunity E vents Friedensfeld Community Garage Sale – Saturday, June 4 at 9 am.

Grand Pointe Art City – Thursdays, May 5 to June 2 (no class May 12) at the Club House. Children 6 years to 14 from 4 - 5:15 pm and youth/adults at 6 - 7:15 pm. A Free 4 week art class with fantastic instructors using different mediums. Space limited, first come - first serve basis.

Robotics Class – Tuesday, May 24 – July 12 (register by May 10). Hands-on live instruction virtually with Zoom; from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. For ages 13 and over. By the end of the course you will have a fully functional 5-axis robot arm capable of being controlled from anywhere. Price: Cost $275 each.

Participants must have a computer with a USB, webcam and microphone.

Hadashville Hike the Whitemouth River Ski Trail - south of Hadashville.

Check trail mapping.

Ile des Chenes Foot care clinic - With certified foot care nurse on Tuesday, May 31 and Wednesday June 1. Contact Janice 204-8832880 Ritchot Senior Services.

Mitchell Community Garage Sale - Saturday, May 28 at 9 am. Everyone welcome. Bring your walking shoes and happy shopping.

Also this year at the Arena parking lot there will be our first Market Contact Sheri Reimer 431-205-1039, blue_roses77@hotmail.com.

Monominto Explore the new Monominto Hiking Trails - On May 14.

Trip Leader Rose Kuzina. Registration starts May 9. Contact rosek1066@mymts.net. The RM of Tache has created the brand new Monominto Trail ski and hiking system by reclaiming its old landfill dump area in the midst of a forest (ca. 7 km). Participants must be fully Covid vaccinated, adhere to all health protocols and be Nature Manitoba members; documented proof of everything is required.

Niverville Adult Dodgeball Drop In - Wednesday, May 4 – Jun 29 from 7 - 8 pm at the AMF Fieldhouse, Court 1, 501 Center Street.

Grab some friends come and play. Cost $5 Drop-In Fee or $42.85 for 9 weeks.

Adult Co-Ed Volleyball Drop In – Thursday, May 5- June 30 from 8 -10 pm. Cost: $80/9 weeks or $10 drop-in. Pay on website recreation@whereyoubelong.ca. Contact 204-3884600.

Community Garage Sale – Friday, May 6 and Saturday, May 7. Maps available on Thursday, May 5. Free Giveaway day- Sunday, May 8. Clearly mark items “FREE” and place at the curb for other residents to pick up if they are interested. Contact 204-388-4600 ext 3 or email recreation@ whereyoubelong.ca.

2022 MB Makers Market - On Saturday, May 7 at 10 am at the Niverville Heritage Centre, Entrance 100C Heritage Trail.

Richer Richer High School Rodeo May 14 & 15 at Dawson Trail Park.

Rodeo events, food trucks and Saturday night music & dance in the Premier Tech Multiplex.

Dawson Trail Museum Open House on May 23rd, 1 to 4 pm (Monday long weekend).

Dawson Trail Art Exhibit Launch on May 23 at the Dawson Trail Museum from 1 to 4 pm.

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 Open at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC License # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 or doreen@spmf.ca.

Community Club Chase the Ace! - Every Saturday at the Richer Inn from 5:00 - 7:45 pm. Tickets only $1 each. Jackpot is growing! Door prizes on random Saturdays ranging from glassware to Jets tickets and jerseys! Bud, Spud and Steak Special and more! Check out the Richer Community Club Facebook page for updates. LGA License #1392RF. Sarto BBQ Chicken Dinner CMC Fundraiser - Saturday, May 14 at 6 pm in the Hall, Driveway #31077 PR 205. Doors open at 5:30 pm. Supper served at 6 pm. Cost $25/adult, $10/child.

Takeout meals available for $20/meal. Entertainment by Hope for Tomorrow and silent auction with amazing prizes. Meal includes BBQ chicken, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, garlic bites, bun, salad, dessert. Call or text Carol 204-392-4512, chbaseballmom@gmail.com.

South Junction Southeast Farmers’ Market – On Wednesdays from 3 - 7 pm.

If you can’t make it, bake it or grow it, you can buy it at the Farmer’s Market! Our vendors will be comfy cozy inside the Pine Grove Seniors facility for the winter and spring markets.

All health protocols will be followed for a stress-free shopping experience. Masks Required. Contact Jen at 204-423-2223 or Shawny 204-437-2600.

St. Adolphe Walk, Run or Ride Family Poker Derby – Saturday, May 7 (rain Date May 14) at the Community Centre. Start with a delicious pancake breakfast from 9 – 11 am, followed by the poker derby around town at 11 am, more games, food trucks, crafts, social starting at 3 pm with a rocking band, beer gardens and more!

AGM Ritchot Senior Services – Wednesday May 11 at 7 pm, 457 Main Street. Refreshments will be served.

Foot care clinic – Mondays and Tuesdays with certified foot care nurse. Contact Janice 204-883-2880 Ritchot Senior Services.

Heart to Home Meal Service - Order your meals by: Wednesday, May 11. Meals ready for pick up or delivery on May 12. Wednesday, May 25. Meals are ready for pick up or delivery on May 26. Available to all areas of the Ritchot Community including St. Adolphe, Ste Agathe, Ile des Chenes, Grande Pointe, Howden and Glen Lea. To place your order call 1-204-816-8659. Menus are also available to pick up at Ritchot Senior Services or by calling Heart to Home. We ask you to please contact 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.

Forever Young Old Time Dance – On Saturday, May 14 from 7 – 11 pm at the Pioneer Hall (upstairs of the rink), 345 Hebert rd. Live music provided by Mark Morisseau and a live Square Dance Demo by the talented Janessa Roy. 50/50 draw and door prizes. Must pre register by calling Jules at 204-8832440 . Cost $15 includes lunch and you will be entered to win a door prize.

South Beach Casino Bus Trip – Tuesday, May 24. Reserve seat

by Saturday, May 28 hosted by Ritchot Senior Services. Pick up at Eagles Club in St. Norbert (right beside Red River Co op).

Bus leaves to Casino at 8:30 am and returns home at 3:30 pm. To reserve a seat please call Lisa 204-890-4858 at Lady Luck Tours. Cost $25 per person.

St. Malo Intro to 3D Archery – June 12 -26 from 2 - 4 pm at the Grotto. For all ages. Safe. Foam tipped arrows. Play as a family. To reserve your email spot info@sayzoons.ca.

Intro to Archery – June 12 -26 from 2 - 4 pm at the Grotto.

For ages 15 and up. To reserve your spot email info@sayzoons.ca.

St. Pierre-Jolys Emergency First Aid-CPR A or C – On Tuesday, May 17 from 5 – 9:30 pm at the Hall. For ages 16 and over, administrative staff, educational assistants, teachers, day care workers, light construction, and support workers. Cost $90 each. To reserve your spot contact info@sayzoons.ca or call or text: 204-7127773 or hello@ratriverrecreation.com.

Intro to 3D Archery – May 14 – 28 from 11 am - 1 pm at the Parc Caillon. For all ages. Safe. Foam tipped arrows. Play as a family. To reserve your spot email info@sayzoons.ca.

Intro to Archery – May 14 – 28 from 11 am - 1 pm at the Parc Caillon. For ages 15 and up. To reserve your spot email info@sayzoons.ca.

Ste. Agathe Summer Camp Registration - Sports Experience Camp - August 15 - 19 at the Arena. For children aged 6 to 12. Cost $140 each. Great mix of sports and physical activities and include a balance of outdoor time, arts & crafts, and creative play time. Contact Liam Harder at the municipal office or register online at ritchot.com.

Foot care clinic – Wednesday, June 22 with certified foot care nurse. Contact Janice 204-883-2880 Ritchot Senior Services.

Ritchot Summer Camps Registration – Registration link will be posted at ritchot.com/p/summer Register online or call 204-346-1077, contact Liam at program@ritchot.com with any questions. All Camps Run 8 am - 4:45pm. Drop off time 8 - 8:30 am and pick-up 4:15 - 4:45pm. Sports week, Art week, Culinary Camp (ages age group 9-14), Survivor Camp (3 days only $85), and Nature Camp, Eco-Culture & Agriculture Week.

Steinbach SAC Live Concerts – Erin Propp & Larry Roy, Juno-Nominated Jazz - Thursday, May 5, 7:30 pm at the Grace Mennonite Church, 430 Third St and Madeline Hildebrand – Thursday, May 26, at 7:30 pm at the Steinbach Mennonite Church, 345 Loewen Blvd. Cost $25 for SAC Members and $28 for Nonmembers.

Tractor Trek - Saturday, June 11 at 7 am, Mennonite Heritage Village, 231 PTH 12 N. Join us for a day of exploration, stories, food, and more! Register online mhv.ca or call 204-326-9661. All proceeds for this fundraiser support both the Mennonite Heritage Village and the Eden Foundation to raise awareness of mental health and well-being. We hope to see you there.

Creative Writers Club - Second Wednesday every month at 7 pm. next one April 13 at the Jake Epp Library, 255 Elmdale St. This is not a class but rather a writing share group where we hope to foster and encourage our participants’ love of writing. Feel free to bring 5 pages of writing (single sided, double spaced) to share with the group. Our evening will begin with an ice breaker and then move into share time. Coffee and tea will be served. Contact Madison Redekopp email mredekopp@jakeepplibrary.com.

Steinbach Professional Development Toastmasters Club – On 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.

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.

Vita Hunter’s Safety Course – Saturday, May 7 at Shevchenko School. Time to be announced. Register at school. Open to ages 10 years and up. Registration fee $75 to be paid at time of course.

Coffee with Council – Tuesday, May 10, 7 - 9 pm at the Friendship Centre.

Free Community Shred Day! - Saturday, May 7, from 9 11 am at Bausch Health, 100 Life Sciences Parkway in the Southwest parking lot. Bring all of your confidential papers that need to be destroyed and the service is provided for Free!

Contact Lynn Giesbrecht 204-326-9000, lynn.giesbrecht@ bauschhealth.com.

Celebrate Migratory Bird Day– Saturday, May 14 at the Agassiz Interpretive Trail, 7 km west of Vita. Free event. Everyone welcome on the Community Bird Walk in the tall grass Prairie.

Bring your binoculars, spotting scope and camera. Contact Norm to register call or text 204-408-6166, email sarcommunityliaison@gmail.com.

Steinbach & Area Garden Club MHV Manitoba Days - Planting Pansies for Mom – On May 7 from 10 am - 1pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village. We invite you to take part in the Manitoba Days by coming and planting a pot of pansies to take home for Mom. Presentation following by Mike Plettt on MHV Peace Garden plans.

Supper & Dance – Sunday, May 15 from 2 – 5 pm. Music

by Wild Ridge Band. Cold plate supper to follow. Cost $15.

Contact 204-425-2706 for tickets.

Clearspring Centre Vendor Fair - Thursday, May at 10 am at the Clearspring Centre, PTH 12 North. Contact Arlene 204326-1633, administration@clearspringcentre.com.

Steinbach & Area Garden Club Members’ Shopping Night – On May 24 to 27 from 4 -8 pm at Oakridge Nurseries. Open to SAGC members only, with one time discount on plant purchases.

You must show your 2022 membership card to be eligible for discount. Reminder that the deadline to renew membership to participate in the May shopping event is May 1 Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Course – On Wednesday’s from 1 - 3 pm, May 4, 11 and18. Contact Pre/Postnatal Outreach and Community liaison, Steinbach Family Resource Centre, 101 North Front Drive, email Maggie@steinbachfrc.ca or call 204-346-0413.

Register for Summer Day Camps –Session 1, July 11 – 15 and Session 2 August 15 -19. Hosted at the Arena. Open to ages 5 to 14. Space limited. Cost $15 each. Contact RM office 204-425-3218, rmstuartburn.rec@gmail.com.

Baseball Registration Open - at Vitaball.rampregistrations. com until April 8. If you have any questions please call Crystal Barnabe 204-371-6039.

West Hawk Lake Meteor Fest – Beginning Friday, July 8 to Sunday July 10.

Family event live music, bands on the beach, BBQ on the Beach, Street Hockey, Pony Rides, Face Painting, Meteor Market, Bingo, Kid’s parade and races, Sand Sculpture contest, Air Mattress Races, Pancake Breakfast, Church Service, Horseshoe Tourney, Poker Derby.

Meteor Market – Saturday, July 9 from 9 am – 2 pm. Book your table now. Call Eunice 204-330-4414.

Woodridge Show & Shine Car Show Fundraiser – Saturday, May 28, registration opens at 9:30 am, event from 11 am – 6 pm at the M.A. Querel Community Park. Fundraiser for a community automatic defibrillator and Community Club. Join the family fun, car show, music, 50/50 draw, silent auction, BBQ lunch, beer garden, Cost $15 per vehicle registration and free public admission. Call or text to register or for more information Larry Clavelle 204-955-9232 or Delores Clavelle 204-304-1265.

To have your event featured in this listing,please email your events to editor@dawsontrail.ca

Robotics Program Comes to Ritchot

By Angelique Forest Between May 24 and July 12 on Tuesdays, Ritchot Recreation will be hosting a Robotics program called “Robotics for the rest of us”.

The program for youth aged 13 and up, teens and adults is designed for those who are curious about how gears, motors, electronics and computers work together with people and their environment. This includes assembling a robotic arm, creating a visual 3D model, designing the electric controls, connecting it to the internet and more.

Register before May 10. For updates, registration and more information visit ritchot.com/p/programs.

Twin Town-Wide Garage Sales Planned on Same Date

By Angelique Forest With the help from social media, the communities of St. Adolphe and Ile des Chenes have set their dates for their respective town-wide garage sale weekend. The communities both have chosen May 28 and 29.

Maps will be available soon on their respective community Facebook pages and for the bargain minded shoppers, coordinating a visit to the neighbouring communities could land you some great deals and memories to take home. Located a relevantly short distance apart, traveling to both towns can turn into a great weekend adventure.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2022

21

Ile des Chenes Residents Voice Concerns Over Large Development

By Dan Guetre Some residents are voicing their concern for a large residential development being proposed on the south side of Ile des Chenes in the RM of Ritchot.

While the initial phase involves 71 acres, according to the developer, another 90 plus acres could eventually be added in the future.

Terracon Development, based in Winnipeg, develops both residential and commercial projects.

According to the developer, Take Pride Winnipeg has consistently awarded them for their landscaping and design.

Landmark Planning & Design has been hired to work with Terracon on the planning and public engagement process which includes reaching out to residents, property owners, businesses and any others with a stake of interest.

With their proposal in hand, they have to date, hosted two public meetings. They are presenting a total of six concepts according to the documentation. The choices include a variation on how much of the development could host high and medium density housing which can affect the remaining balance used for the 8,000 sq. ft. lots.

Already, some residents have voiced their concern about the variety of proposed housing densities and the stress it could place on the current infrastructure in Ile des Chenes. While the majority of residents do not seem opposed to the development, many are concerned that if the community grows too fast, it could backfire on the existing residents. Others just feel they are not getting enough information or the municipal council is waiting too long to join the conversation.

Councilor and Deputy Mayor Shane Pelletier has responded to the critics asking people to have patience and let the process get to the point where it is officially presented to the municipal council. “…so far at this point, all we have is what’s been presented,” said Pelletier in a post on community social media account. “Landmark planners have been hosting these forums on behalf of the developers to get input from the public regarding the development of said land.

They started their first 2 sessions with those people closest to the parcel in question and I believe the 3rd will include the rest of town as they look for feedback.”

“The parcel in question has been the designated growth area for at least the past 4 councils as it is the only area that realistically can support it without going into a different municipality or crossing the highway,” added Pelletier. “It has also been discussed locally for as long as I can remember.”

Pelletier sees nothing abnormal with the initial talks of varying residential density.

“As far as density throughout the development, it is still too early to offer what we might see, but I’ll

add that diversity in density in a development is truly the only way to build a community that supports all walks of life,” he said. “Not everyone wants/needs/can afford an 8,000 sq. ft. lot and the house that goes on it.”

Area resident Paul La Rocque is a bit more cautious when it comes to the mixed density.

“My concern is that I know very little about it and that it will be bring more multi-family dwelling units instead of single family residential homes on 8,000 sq. ft. lots,” said La Rocque.

While he is does not deny the project details are available, he is concerned that developer is not proactive enough with residents with their plans.

“There were community meetings held in February and in April, but I didn’t learn about them until a local resident posted a thread about it on IDC Community Chat Group on Facebook,” he said. “I would have liked to have seen information in the community about such a large project, posted in places like the Post Office, the Country Store, or the RM Connect App or website, but I haven’t seen anything yet. Perhaps others have, but I haven’t.”

“I would have liked if the RM of Ritchot could have facilitated such a discussion,” added La Rocque.

“I have invited members from the Ritchot council to participate in the discussion on the Facebook thread.

I think it would be good for them to engage in discussion with residents to hear their thoughts on the project.”

“I would like to see the RM take a more proactive role in the community to hear from residents on the matter, and facilitate discussions,” he said. “Especially for such a large residential development that is 180 acres which would see Ile des Chenes double in size.”

He believes the municipality should organize a night to invite the public to the Trans Canada Centre, the community hall in Ile des Chenes and showcase the plans. He suggested that council could bring the community together and “let’s have a discussion about what we would like our community to look like.”

He is also concerned about the lack of details offered by the developer.

“Someone posted a link on Facebook to the project so I don’t know if this is the official planning document, but the plans don’t show the number and size of the lots,” continued La Rocque. “There is no lot plan, which I find odd since it is slated to be 71 acres in the first stage, followed by another 90 acres in the near future.”

He is concerned that the municipality could be stalling their dialog with residents until the Public Hearing stage. He cited a previous approved development where he believes residents were not heard.

“In that case, the residents came

out at the Public Hearing to voice their concerns, but the RM council approved it anyway,” he stated.

“The result is that we will see 150 townhouses as opposed to 8,000 sq. ft. lots. My concern is that the only opportunity we will get to hear from council on this project is when they vote on it at the Public Hearing, as was the case in C5-2020.“ La Rocque insists he is not against development, but on a scale with high density development on one end and single family homes with large lots on the other, he will personally side with the large lots.

“I think residents have seen enough multi-family dwelling in the past 10 years and are looking forward to see single-family homes that are not crowded,” said La Rocque.

Another Ile des Chenes resident is also concerned about the lack of information coming out and how this size of development could affect the resources that exist in the community. He points out that some of these concerns have already been brought up by residents at the couple of meetings hosted by the developer.

“With the additional residences going up, school capacities were also mentioned during the initial meetings,” said Steven Petznik.

“There is plenty left unanswered thus far. We are only looking at top level plans with no real answers yet to any concerns.”

He is worried that the developer will strike a deal with the municipality, “dead set on doing what they want there, regardless of the people affected”. Additionally, he agrees with others that the municipality should be in front of this now instead of waiting. He believes that the municipality does hear what the concerns are but is wary they will avoid discussion with residents until it is too late for real dialog.

He does have a solution. “I feel that there should be a committee that includes some residents directly affected by all that’s about to happen,” he suggested.

“The change that is coming will be big and impact this entire town.

I don’t want to risk losing what I’ve become accustomed to,” said Petznik. “The developers should not just listen to residents, but actually be open to working with them to ensure a more smooth transition into this new evolution of our small town.”

“And I am all for the welcoming of new residents as a positive thing and the appropriate consideration for the new influx of people should be given,” he added. “But don’t forget about the people that are already calling this place home.”

Shaylene Hawthorne is also a resident of Ile des Chenes concerned about school capacity, stress on the infrastructure and the vagueness in the inclusion of medium-high density allowances.

So far, she says she has only seen a lot of, “Blanketed responses filled

While the initial phase involves 71 acres, according to the developer, another 90 plus acres could eventually be added in the future.

Some residents have voiced their concern about the variety of proposed housing densities and the stress it could place on the current infrastructure in Ile des Chenes. While the majority of residents do not seem opposed to the development, many are concerned that if the community grows too fast, it could backfire on the existing residents. Others just feel they are not getting enough information or the municipal council is waiting too long to join the conversation.

with vague and unsure answers for when addressing specifics” She believes that terms like “cohesive development” and “blending to what we already have” are pitches and not real answers.

She also takes issues with the developer responding with a comment that, “They are unable to help us accept change,” when residents were vocalizing personal concerns.

She too is critical of council and there reactionary stance rather than being proactive with residents.

“Where has the RM been since the start? Where is the transparency?” she asked. “Where has the public access to this proposal been advertised to make sure not only that the stakeholders, local businesses and residences primarily effected have the appropriate information but also the town itself. The lack of efforts to even inform the community has fallen short.”

“I am a long standing resident of Ile des Chenes, growing up here and now creating my own life here with my spouse and our 2 small children,” she explained. “I have

seen many changes and positive growth but also seen the lack of upkeep and mounting concerns compile over the years.”

“I am a firm supporter of growth as I come from a family back ground of self-employed builders and trades which then provides jobs and an income. But I do strongly believe that there is an appropriate place for certain concepts and I do not think that at this scale, this new proposed development is something that fits with our town,” she added. “The RM identifies Ile des Chenes on their website as a ‘midnineteenth century francophone town with prolific oak trees’, summarizing it as a ‘small well rounded rural community not far from the city’. But what are we doing to honor and preserve this because we are far from a dying town. Growth doesn’t need to mean cramming as much as we can into an open space or creating a concrete jungle. Let’s re-evaluate to create a sustainable development and affordable single family homes to keep the country living feeling alive!”

22

May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

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

RCMP Officer Assaulted During Traffic Stop On April 7 at approximately 2 pm, an RCMP officer with Central Traffic Services conducted a traffic stop on 6th Avenue South in the Town of Niverville.

When the officer approached the driver, an adult male became aggressive and threatening. The driver was advised that he was under arrest for Uttering Threats and when the officer attempted to arrest him. The male actively resisted and began fighting the officer. The altercation led the officer and the suspect onto the highway. A passerby stopped and assisted the officer to get control of the male.

The male was arrested and placed safely into custody.

Lyall James Hudson, 51, of Niverville, has been charged with Assault on a Police Officer, Uttering Threats and Resisting Arrest.

The officer suffered minor injuries.

St-Pierre-Jolys RCMP Look for Suspect in Theft On April 13 at approximately 3:35 pm, St-Pierre-Jolys RCMP received a report of a theft of a catalytic converter in progress on a parked vehicle located near the intersection of Highway 59 and Highway 52 in the RM of Hanover.

It was reported that the male suspect then returned to his vehicle and fled the scene with the caller following.

The information was relayed to officers from St-Pierre-Jolys and Steinbach who attended to the area in an attempt to locate the vehicle.

The suspect vehicle was located travelling westbound on Road 24N and when an officer attempted to pull it over the suspect rammed the police vehicle and fled the scene.

The driver is described as a Caucasian male, approximately 5’9”, in his 40’s, bald, with a stubble beard and large nose.

The suspect’s vehicle, which appears to be an older model grey coloured Honda CRV with a black colored front passenger door, was captured on camera and RCMP are asking anyone with information in relation to this vehicle or its driver to contact the St. Pierre-Jolys Detachment at 204-433-7433 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com.

St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP continues to investigate.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

RCMP Search for Stolen Trailer and Culprit On Thursday, April 14 Steinbach RCMP received a report of a breakin and theft of a deck trailer that occurred in the area of Penner Drive, Blumenort at around 4 am.

A black GMC was seen entering the property. No other description of the suspect vehicle was noted due to the winter storm. The suspect damaged the locked gate to gain entry into the compound and stole a trailer described as a 2009 Load Trail, original colour is black, but has become rusted with license plate CWL 401.

If you have any information regarding the above incident or any other 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.

Dirt Bike Stolen from Auction Yard On April 19 Steinbach RCMP received a call about a stolen dirt bike from Penner Auctions on Brandt Street.

The bike was stolen around 6 am and a male wearing tan pants, a green backpack, black hoodie, a yellow hat and a black facial covering was observed stealing it.

The dirt bike is described as a yellow, semi-automatic Yamoto 72cc dirt bike with “Killer Circus” written on it.

Steinbach RCMP is asking the public for assistance in locating the dirt bike or identifying the male. If you have any information regarding this matter, please contact the Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-4452, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers. com.

Male Wanted by RCMP

Steinbach RCMP Respond to a Weapons Incident at Steinbach Regional Secondary School

Steinbach RCMP are requesting the public’s assistance in locating Pietro Nesca who is currently wanted on Unendorsed Warrant of Committal stemming from serious firearm charges.

Nesca was released on April 20 to be living in an address in Winnipeg however, he never showed up there.

Nesca is considered dangerous and not to be approached.

If you have any information in regards to the above person, 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 May 2 at approximately 9:40 am, Steinbach RCMP received a report that a student brought a firearm and bear spray to the school. Officers attended immediately and determined that the 17-year-old male had in his possession a BB gun that resembled a handgun and bear spray, which he had sprayed off the premises in the presence of other students. Both items were seized. No one was physically injured.

The youth is charged with Carry Concealed Weapon and Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose x2. The investigation is continuing.

The Steinbach RCMP wish to commend SRSS staff on their immediate and appropriate response to this incident.

Steinbach RCMP Investigates Arson On April 3 at approximately 7:55 am, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a structure fire at a business located on Main Street in Steinbach.

Officers attended the location and once the fire had been extinguished, were advised that the fire had been deliberately set. No injuries were reported.

RCMP are seeking public assistance in locating a small grey-coloured vehicle which was described as having a cloth rag hanging from the front right side of the vehicle. Officers would like to speak with the owner/operator of this vehicle.

Steinbach RCMP continue to in. Anyone with information in regards to this fire or suspicious vehicle is asked to contact Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-1234 or call Manitoba Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800222-8477, submit a secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com.

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

Check on your neighbours.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

May 2022

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May 2022

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch