Dawson Trail Dispatch September 2023

Kleefeld’s Annual Festival

Manitoba’s 43rd General Election Date Set for October 3, 2023

Manitoba has a set date for general elections, although the law allows for the election to be called before the set date.

The next date set for a provincial general election is October 3, 2023. If the election is called earlier, the dates shown below will change. Election officials may visit homes to register voters from August 17 to 24.

Advance voting: Saturday, September 23, 2023 to Saturday, September 30, 2023. Advance polling places are open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily, noon to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Election day: Tuesday, October 3, 2023. Polls are open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.tions Manitoba.

Photos by Let it Shine with Jenni via Facebook

Thousands Attend Richer Rodeo As Committee Pulls Out All the Stops

The mid-August 2023 Richer Rodeo’s packed stands featured professional bull riding, a weekend rodeo and all the fixings for a country fair atmosphere with music and activities. This year the organizers added more entertainers on their open air busking stage with a focus on First Nations, Métis and Francophone entertainers. Photos by Carmen Trudeau

The parade was well attended and featured many local businesses, sponsors and historical entries.

Trail Days

“Open up the House so Canadians Can Get a Home.”

In late August, the Conservatives called on the Prime Minster to return early from the summer recess so Parliament could tackle the issue of Canada’s housing shortage.

It is unlikely the PM will do so. He and his party have no solutions on housing—they’re the ones who created the cost-ofliving crunch that’s driving the housing crisis in the first place.

Interest rate hikes resulting from made-in-Canada Liberal inflation has many Canadian families unable to pay their mortgages.

Fewer and fewer Canadians can afford to buy a home.

The average home price is now $700,000, over $1 million if you live in Toronto or Vancouver.

Prior to the Trudeau Government it took 25 years for the average family to pay off a mortgage. Today, it takes 25 years just to save up a down payment.

Homelessness is on the rise.

The Liberals have invested nearly $40 billion in their National Housing Strategy but, as with most things this government does, they talk a big game, spend a lot of money, achieve nothing because they didn’t actually have

a plan, and then blame everyone else but themselves for their failures.

To add to the problem, the Trudeau Government continues to bring in record numbers of foreign students, asylum seekers, and other immigrants, all of whom require housing. Canada should be a desirable place for people to attend university, we need skilled immigrants to help our economy, and we should do our part to help the world’s most vulnerable. However, if we fail to set these folks up for success when they come here, we really aren’t helping them, or ourselves.

The reality is a significant portion of those struggling to find housing are foreign students, new immigrants, and asylum seekers.

It is therefore absurd that Mr. Trudeau has tasked Sean Fraser, whose failed leadership drove our immigration system into the ground, with fixing housing.

The massive failures of Canada’s broken immigration system—a topic I have discussed with some regularity in this column—aside, we are about to have a massive influx of some 900,000 foreign students, alone. All of them will need

a place to stay.

Like those who arrive here seeking asylum (be it legitimately or not)—and those refugees the Liberal Government brought over and unceremoniously dumped without ensuring or providing the necessary supports to set them up for success in Canada—foreign students (and even some Canadian students) have been sleeping in homeless shelters.

Homeless shelters were designed for the homeless. The lack of affordable housing and shortage of available beds in shelters means those vulnerable folks are then forced back out onto the streets.

To be fair, housing is a multijurisdictional undertaking, but real leadership at the federal level could see access to housing improve, if just a bit of common sense and some clear metrics were applied to the problem.

1. First and foremost, we need to balance the budget. We must stop printing and borrowing money. By getting Canada’s finances under control we can reduce the inflation the Liberal Government has caused. This in turn will lower the

cost of living, including housing.

2. Reduce red tape (at all levels of government) that makes it harder to get houses built. Conservatives propose to withhold funding from municipalities who don’t get affordable housing built, while at the same time rewarding those that do with additional funds as a “building bonus”.

3. Sell surplus federal properties for affordable housing. Some 6,000 surplus government buildings could be turned into affordable homes for Canadians.

These are all practical, commonsense solutions to addressing the housing crisis.

Only a new Conservative government will fix housing.

It’s time for Justin Trudeau and the Liberals to move out so Canadians can move in.

Expansion of Palliative Care Services in Southeast

By Dan Guetre

Southern Health-Santé Sud is enhancing its palliative care services in the region after receiving an additional $1.3 million based on the recommendations of the provincial seniors’ strategy.

“This funding will allow our region to hire and increase the hours of dedicated palliative care staff from 7 nurses and 2 Social Workers, to 12 nurses and 3 Social Workers to support program enhancements,” said Kelly Kaleta, Director – Home Care, Palliative Care & Seniors.

The overall program will see increased support for caregivers, improved access to after hours support and enhanced training and awareness of palliative care for health providers. People of all ages affected by life-limiting illness at home, hospitals, First Nation communities and personal care homes will benefit from enhanced access to palliative care services.

According to Kaleta, the palliative care team at Southern HealthSanté Sud has been able to fill and increase hours for nearly all of the additional palliative care staff.

“As a result, the program has

seen a significant expansion of services including an increase in after-hours support,” she added. “The additional funding and nursing staff has allowed for the Palliative Care Nurses to work in a smaller geographical area and to enhance the supports they provide to hospital or personal care home clients.”

With the structure, the Ste. Anne area has a designated palliative care nurse who will support palliative care patients and their families at Hôpital Ste-Anne Hospital, Villa Youville and the Rural Municipalities of Ste. Anne and Taché, she explained.

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Municipality Assists Community Service Groups with Evolving Grant Program

By Dan Guetre

Community service groups have been around ever since people started bonding with their neighbours. Volunteering was even noted back in the 12th century medieval Britain, where there were more than 500 hospitals operated by volunteers.

Contemporary municipalities have long recognized that their local community service groups provide cost effective services and resources to residents and support goes a long way to ensuring their success. Many of our local governments have developed processes within their budgets to assist groups that affect their residents in order to improve quality of life.

In the RM of Piney, the formal grant process has evolved over the years taking input “based on the will of the ratepayers” said Reeve Wayne Anderson.

“Since the present Council was elected in 2014, it has followed more or less the structure that has been in place for some time,” noted Anderson.

What to set aside in a budget and how to distribute is something each municipal council has to decide.

“The budget is normally around

$200,000 which covers capital grants, event grants, and a portion of insurance premiums that cover the liability and property insurance for the community groups,” said the RM of Piney Reeve. “We try to keep expenditures within a reasonable amount, but it has been rising slightly year by year.”

Piney, like other municipalities have set up procedures to gauge the needs of their service groups.

“We have a recreation committee that meets with community groups each year to discuss the grants for projects they need to keep up the centres,” he explained. “We allow a total of $17,500 for each of three regions. Each region is made up of several groups who decide and agree on the amount each centre will receive based on need and fairness to each group.”

Finding the balance of how much collected through taxation and levies versus how much is spent can be can be tough for municipalities, including setting the money aside for community groups.

“Yes, there are at times decisions we make that impact community groups that are asking for more funding,” he admitted. “We try to balance the requests of the

community groups with our ratepayers’ expectations, needs, and ability to pay.”

Anderson believes there are about 10 groups within his municipality that apply each year for the grants.

He added that council isn’t content on ignoring the visibly evolving communities throughout the RM of Piney.

“Since the present structure for delivering community recreation has been in place for many years, the RM of Piney has undertaken a study to determine if present practices are effective, and how they can be improved based on modern expectations,” he explained. “We obtained a grant to fund a consultant who will produce a Recreation Master Plan. The consultant has been interviewing many residents to obtain their input, and we have asked for surveys to be completed by anyone interested.”

The Recreation Master Plan will be available in the near future, “so we can continue the discussions with our ratepayers,” he noted.

The RM of Piney is currently accepting applications for Recreation Grants which must be received in their office by September 30.

Seniors Trapped in the Middle

Dear Editor:

Last month, an article published here entitled “Seniors need a voice” generated quite a response from the local community. We hope that this follow up piece will answer some of those questions about seniors’ rights.

Many of the issues that were brought up last month were in reference to the living conditions at Paradise Village, a 55+ retirement community just north of Ste. Anne. However, we believe that seniors all across Manitoba are finding similar difficulties living in similar situations. Out of control rent increases were seen across the board over the last few years but unfortunately seniors that are often on a fixed income have seen the brunt of it. There is some legislation in place for the protection of some renters, but the peculiar case of Paradise Village - where you own a home on leased land - falls outside of current rental controls. This means that upper administration can really charge what they want for leases.

In theory, the RTB, or Rental Tenancies Branch, should be able to assist in complaints about rent increases or disputes between tenants and landlords. However, the RTB is limited in their scope by legislation. This means that despite rental increases being used for amenities such as tree removal, pool maintenance, flood drainage, etc. can be levied at any given point in time, and the landlord is under no obligation to follow through. The rent can be increased with no accountability. The threat of eviction is often enough to keep complaints in line and an atmosphere of fear exists in many 55+ living centres. This is no way for seniors to enjoy this chapter of their lives. Many seniors are trapped in the middle - with no other place to go and their life savings invested in their retirement community.

The way forward is to have an advocate to communicate directly with the provincial government to provide protection for seniors from this kind of abuse and to be a voice for new legislation. While much of the emphasis is on these sorts of issues in Winnipeg, we believe that these issues are also important in places like Dawson Trail in rural Manitoba. The Manitoba NDP has promised a Seniors Advocate which will assist in bringing about these changes to help seniors in this province have a better quality of life. However, this is only possible with a change in government on October 3. Get out and vote - seniors are depending on it for a better future.

Mark and Barb Hidlebaugh Concerned Senior Citizens Residing in Manitoba/Dawson Trail

September 2023

Celebrating

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

Ste. Anne Curling Club and Others Greenlight Improvement Projects

By Dan Guetre

The Ste. Anne Curling Club is moving ahead on a few projects to improve their facility.

With the help of a $25,000 grant from the Arts, Culture and Sport in Community Fund the curling club plans to make some equipment and camera upgrades, and improve their access to the upstairs lounge with a staircase chair lift.

According to the club, some preliminary work has been done already regarding camera upgrades and they will be moving the other upgrades along this curling season.

“We can’t give completion dates as yet because some of the projects are pretty complicated and need assessments and permits and such, like the chair lift,” explained Robert, a spokesperson for the curling club. “We hope to have them all completed by the end of the curling season.”

“We are very grateful for this money in order to continually improve our club and the experience of our curling members,” he added.

In the same fund approval announcement, the Ste. Anne Library will be receiving $25,000 towards a library green space and $24,000 to create a “makers” space.

Additionally, Ste. Anne Minor Hockey Association is receiving $26,000 to replace the rubber floor in their dressing rooms.

Various southeastern communities were also successful in tapping into the fund.

La Broquerie Minor Baseball received $25,000 towards facility improvements; window upgrades will take place at the Mennonite Heritage Village (MHV) who also received $25,000. MHV received an additional $24,000 towards their Sustainable Technology Initiative.

With $16,253 in funding, East Braintree’s Midwinter Heritage site will be able to upgrade a washroom and build a pioneer style summer kitchen.

The Ste. Agathe Arena will use their $25,000 towards facility upgrades.

Tolstoi Holy Trinity Church Historical Society received over $112,000 towards their Tolstoi Heritage Centre Annex construction.

Steinbach Curling Club will divvy up over $17,000 to replace some flooring and purchase new curling rocks for their junior program. Also in Steinbach, the Steinbach Skimmers Competitive Speed Swimming will use $25,000 to upgrade the timing equipment.

In addition the fund awarded capital to various “special initiatives” including $12,000 that Eastman SnoPALS will use to upgrade their snow machine, and almost $20,000 for the Whiteshell Cross Country Ski Club to purchase snow grooming equipment.

Jolys Regional Library plans to use $25,000 to enhance a community gathering place.

With the help of a $25,000 grant from the Arts, Culture and Sport in Community Fund the curling club plans to make some equipment and camera upgrades, and improve their access to the upstairs lounge with a staircase chair lift. Submitted photo

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch September 2023

Richert Signs to Drive Formula 2 Car in Italy

Niverville race car driver, David Richert, will be racing a Formula 2 car in the BOSS GP Championship in Italy later this month. Richert has signed with MM International Motorsport to compete in Round 6 of the championship at the historic race circuit of Monza.

This will be the first time that Richert returns to a race car after his victory in a Formula 3 car at Mugello in October, 2022. Last year Richert finished 2nd in the Drexler Automotive Formula 3 Cup championship standings and completed the season with 2 wins and 15 podium finishes.

It will be a significant milestone for Richert as this will be his debut race weekend in the highly powered Formula 2 race car. Next to Formula 1, a Formula 2 car is one of the quickest race cars on the planet. The performance of a Formula 2 car features a blistering acceleration of 0-100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, a top speed around 330 km/h, and cornering forces reaching 3.5G.

“I’m excited to get back into a race car and it’s going to be a great opportunity to drive an extremely fast race car in a competitive series at one of the premier race circuits on the planet,” said Richert. “It will be a big challenge to get up to speed and jump into a car partway through the season, but hopefully past experiences and preparation over the next few weeks will make it a successful event. And a big thanks to Dr. Wiens and his team at Image Plus Laser Eye Centre for helping to make this happen.”

BOSS GP bills itself as the fastest race series in Europe and the 2023 championship has featured a wide array of different drivers including Antonio Pizzonia (former Formula 1 driver), Fabian Vettel (brother of 4x Formula 1 World Champion, Sebastian Vettel) and recently seen completing demonstration runs at a BOSS GP event in Assen, NL, was Nyck de Vries who was replaced by Daniel Ricciardo at Scuderia AlphaTauri F1 Team last month.

MM International Motorsport, based in the area of Pisa, Italy, has been competing in BOSS GP for the last decade.

“We are happy to have David join our team for the upcoming race at Monza and look forward to working together with him to achieve a great result from the weekend,” said Valerio Sacilotto, Team Principal.

The Nardi Compressori BOSS GP Race will take place at Monza, Italy, September 22-24.

One of MM International Motorsport’s Formula 2 cars on track earlier in 2023.

Richert previously on track in a Formula 3 car at Monza, Italy, in 2022.

Niverville’s David Richert is getting prepared for Formula 2 car racing in Europe.

Submitted photos

Photo by Angelo Poletto/BOSS GP

“Ritchot’s Sweetest Lemonade Stand” a Huge Success!

By Angelique Forest

Ritchot’s Mayor issued a unique challenge in his municipality and definitely was not disappointed in the response.

The 2-day contest, meant to encourage young entrepreneurs, was to create a lemonade stand within a specified budget and sell as much lemonade as possible while creating a unique and attractive little business for the communities to enjoy and support.

“This contest has been an idea of mine for a couple years. I love seeing little entrepreneurs in the summer season, creating kiosks and selling good,” said Ritchot Mayor Chris Ewan. “In order to get the next generation of business people, our generation needs to foster this spirit anyway we can!”

Every ward in Ritchot was included leading up 20 entries throughout the municipality.

According to Ewen, maps were created to help residents find and support the lemonade stands.

“The first year was a huge success!” said the Mayor, proud of how residents got involved. “We had public voting and saw over 500 votes come in.”

Council with additional judges made their rounds throughout the communities to vote for the best stand.

“Everyone had a great time, and the creativity from each group that entered was

unique and filled with their own personalities,” he noted.

Aside from the council and mayor, additional support was received from Community Futures Triple R and the family of Justin and Tracy Roberts. The local Economic Development Officer was also a major asset in allocating funds from the budget towards this project.

Siblings from Ste. Agathe, Luca and Maia Manaigre, were very proud to display their rock-inspired lemonade stand aptly named “John Lemon Lemonade”. They were awarded first prize.

“We spent around a week working on the stand and making the lemonade,” said Maia. “Luca built the stand and I painted and created the logo and everything else was team work!”

She encourages all future participants to go for it, even if they don’t win.

“It’s still worth it, because it’s a fun experience!” she said. “And it’s something that me and my siblings could bond over.”

Maia added she had another reason to participate.

“The thing that motivated us the most was probably knowing there was a $600 cash prize!” she admitted. “But even if we didn’t win, me and Luca had lots of fun making and selling our lemonade.”

Pictures courtesy of Chris Ewan

Some of the lemonade stands in the contest.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Choosing Our Direction

By Dan Guetre

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

casting a ballot on or before October 3 in order to decide the direction our province should take over the next few years.

In the southeast, the Dawson Trail Dispatch received responses from most candidates to questions with the hope of passing along to our readership a window into the minds of the people who could potentially be your voice in the Legislature.

A word of caution though, these

are their responses to some general topical questions. Most of us have our own personal takes we need answers to. If you have different questions, we suggest you reach out to the candidates and get those answers and make a decision on who fits the bill to represent you.

This is an opportunity to turn the tables and have them remember you instead of them campaigning so you remember them.

September 2023

In the southeast we have the PC Party of Manitoba, the Manitoba NDP, the Manitoba Liberal Party, the Manitoba Green Party and even a candidate from the more recently formed Keystone Party with registered candidates vying for our attention.

We have noted who did not respond but take this with a grain of salt. Some of the parties have not completed their nomination process to officially register a

candidate. Others are still getting their campaign logistics together so may not have had the opportunity to respond, although we look at this as a bit more suspect.

“Politics” may not be your thing but remember, with registered voter turnout sitting between 55%-57%, those of you who do not vote could actually change the entire course of election results by casting a ballot.

A Provincial General Election is upon us, and many of us will be

Steinbach Constituency: Liberals Point Out

“PC’s Failures”

By Dan Guetre

Incumbent PC MLA Kelvin Goertzen is no stranger to the position as he has won every provincial election consecutively for the past 20 years. In those years he has held key cabinet posts and even was Premier for two months as a placeholder when the party went through a leadership vote.

Manitoba Liberal Party (MLP) candidate Cyndy Friesen is campaigning to

Friesen has lived in Steinbach for 31 years and been actively involved in the community. Highlights include serving as an elected official as school trustee representing Steinbach for 12 years as well as a life long volunteer for other organizations.

“I was humbled to be the recipient of the MB HONOR 150 award which recognizes 150 Manitobans who have made a positive difference in their community,” said Friesen. “I have a proven recording serving my community with integrity, passion and commitment and would offer the same should I have the honor of being elected as MLA representing Steinbach, Blumenort and Mitchell.”

Friesen says she was inspired to run after spending nearly 100 days in 5 different hospitals in 2023.

“I witnessed first hand the devastation of our health care system caused by PC and NDP cuts and neglect,” she explained. “The Manitoba Liberal Party is the only party offering concrete solutions and real change to address health care challenges.”

Manitobans should not forget the extreme shortfalls across the board where the PCs failed to govern, she added.

“Many, including myself, have been negatively impacted by their cuts and austerity,” she noted. “We are the only party offering real change on issues like healthcare, education and senior care.”

Friesen accuses the PCs of failing to properly invest in recruitment and retention of healthcare workers and public health nurses who are leaving

the public system to other provinces, or to work as agency nurses.

“The PCs are not credible in any of their eleventh-hour announcements,” said Friesen, noting all the last minute government announcements made shortly before the election writ was officially dropped.

Friesen also pointed out a glaring hole in the way the current government protects its largest vulnerable sector of the population and says the MLP has a solution.

“We will act immediately to implement strong new protections for seniors in Manitoba to ensure they are safe, healthy and that all reports of mistreatment and abuse are investigated by an independent office of a Seniors’ Advocate,” she explained.

According to Friesen, the massive silica sand extraction proposal by Sio Silica is a disaster waiting to happen.

“We believe that there is too much risk when it comes to this project, as reported in the Clean Environment Commission report,” she said. “We stand with residents in believing there is too much risk and that there is a very real possibility that Manitoba’s largest freshwater underground aquifer could be compromised.”

Friesen pointed out the “home grown” idea on the MLP platform that could stimulate economic development.

“We have announced the creation of a Manitoba Business Development Bank to ensure business and entrepreneurs have access to the capital they need to create and grow their local businesses in Manitoba,” she explained. “This bank represents a different approach to business development in Manitoba where it’s based exclusively on investing in independent Manitoba businesses and farms in order to make Manitoba ownership a cornerstone of job and wealth creation in the province.”

Recent public service strikes have also made headlines recently.

“The PCs voted to give themselves raises, yet continue to deny equal treatment to others,” noted Friesen. “Both the PC and NDP governments ignored

fixed date contracts and let them expire for years on end. We would do more to work together to ensure fair wages and be a government that is proactive, not reactive.”

The Manitoba NDP have nominated Gord Meneer as their candidate in Steinbach.

According to his bio, Meneer has lived, raised a family and been an active community member in the southeast for over 20 years. He is an active CUPE member, currently sitting as the Vice-President for CUPE 998, an Area Vice-President for CUPE Manitoba and he serves on its National Global Justice committee.

Manitoba Green Party candidate, Gabrielle Simard-Nadeau, is a mother of three and lives with her husband in the area on a farm. She grew up in the area.

“We have a mixed farm of cattle, chickens, hay and grain fields,” said SimardNadeau. “I am passionate about social and environmental issues.”

Simard-Nadeau noted her values align mostly with the Green Party.

“I decided to add my name when I saw the vacancy in the Steinbach riding,” she said. “It’s important to have diversity on the ballot.”

On the Sio Silica project, SimardNadeau says it’s a no from her.

“When there are concerns for water quality, it’s not worth the risk,” she said explaining her position.

Editor’s Notes:

PC candidate Kelvin Goertzen was sent some questions for this article on August 30 and Sept 1, but according to his son Malachi who responded to the email, “My dad is away until Tuesday.” No further response was received by press deadline even though the Dispatch extended the time to respond suggesting that his son could forward the questions on to him in order to take a few minutes to respond.

NDP candidate Gord Meneer was sent questions along with a reminder but no responses were received by press deadline.

AdvANcE votiNg: Saturday, September 23, 2023 to Saturday, September 30, 2023. Advance polling places are open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily, noon to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday. Advance voting is held for eight days, beginning the Saturday 10 days before election day and continuing until the following Saturday. You can vote at any advance poll in Manitoba during all eight days of advance voting. Advance voting hours are generally from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday and from noon to 6:00 pm Sunday (some exceptions apply). In a general election, you may vote at any advance polling place in the province (some exceptions apply). In a byelection, you may vote at any advance polling place in the electoral division. ID is required: One piece of government-issued photo ID or two other pieces.

Manitoba Liberal Party candidate Cyndy Friesen.

Incumbent PC MLA Kelvin Goertzen.

NDP candidate Gord Meneer.

Manitoba Green Party candidate, Gabrielle SimardNadeau.

Springfield-Ritchot: Liberals and NDP Criticize PC Record

By Dan Guetre

Incumbent PC candidate Ron Schuler was first elected in the 1999 and is again seeking re-election.

According to his election bio, Schuler states he is an active community volunteer and has given his time to organizations such as Big Brothers, Citizens on Patrol, the Kidney Foundation, Max Reinhardt Theatre Canada, the German Canadian Heritage Foundation and the Manitoba Inter-cultural Council.

Schuler has held multiple cabinet posts but on December 30, 2021 Schuler was removed from cabinet by Premier Heather Stefanson following months of speculation over whether he was vaccinated against COVID-19. The Premier had a change of heart and Schuler was back as Minister of Infrastructure.

Tammy Ivanco juggles teaching and running a small farm in the middle of the Springfield-Ritchot constituency. She has been nominated as the candidate for the Manitoba NDP.

“I live in the Springfield-Ritchot constituency and am very similar to many residents, so I have lived their concerns and struggles as a resident, homeowner, commuter, and small farm owner,” she explained, “and I know my constituents want representation from an MLA that listens to them and is committed to ensuring good rural health care, schools, affordability and a well-supported agricultural sector, and a safe and clean environment for their families.”

Ivanco is very critical of the way the PC’s have handled healthcare and other sectors in the province and this influenced her to run for the NDP.

“I have Multiple Sclerosis and 10 years ago I had two neurologists, but now, like too many Manitobans with MS, I have no neurologist and the wait times for diagnostic scans I need are longer,” said Invanco. “I knew there was a grassroots uprising for change in Manitoba, especially in rural Manitoba, that I wanted to be a part of, and I trust this Manitoba NDP team led by Wab Kinew to understand rural issues, fix health care, bring jobs to diverse sectors, improve Manitoba services after years of austerity and cuts, and commit to reconciliation with our indigenous communities.”

She accused the PC government of damaging the health care system, and cutting education and supports for seniors consistently over past 7 years, only to have Heather Stefanson’s attempt to make up for it in the months right before an election with promises and spending that were “very out of character for this conservative government to make people think the future would be different.”

“Brian Pallister had promised to build 1,200 Personal Care Home beds, but instead, about 150 of those PCH beds were cut under the PC government,” she noted. “Heather Stefanson’s announcement again for 960 PCH beds, staff, and

nurses just before an election is too late and, given the record of promises made and not kept, Manitobans just cannot rely on a PC government to do the job after October 3rd.”

Ivanco is asking voters to “trust Wab Kinew and this Manitoba NDP team.”

With the Sio Silica project basically in her backyard, she is critical of the way the PC government has handled the process.

“The PC government had the basic responsibility to say they would protect families and guarantee clean and safe drinking water,” stated Ivanco. “The Manitoba NDP will consider the recommendations of the Clean Energy Commission and we will always stand up for a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all Manitobans.”

Ivanco is also critical of Heather Stefanson’s government decisions and who benefits.

“[It’s] been great for billionaires, and out of province companies, but bad for working Manitobans,” she said. “Wab Kinew and the Manitoba NDP will power our economy with good jobs for Manitobans with some of the best environmental protections, and that will mean partnering with companies who ensure what is good for their company is also good for Manitobans and our environment.”

Building a strong economy is achievable under the Manitoba NDP plan, she added.

“We will strengthen diverse areas that are already strong and lean into new clean energy initiatives, and power our economy with good Manitoba jobs for Manitobans, which requires investing in all levels of education, and apprenticeships and trades training,” she explained.

She also pointed out that there has to be a focus on health care “because Manitoba cannot have a strong economy without strong health care to bring people here and keep them here.”

Trevor Kirczenow is no stranger to the political limelight. Most recently he ran federally for the Liberal Party in the last national election. This time he has accepted the nomination to run in Springfield-Ritchot for the Manitoba Liberal Party.

Kirczenow lives near Dugald with his family on a small farm and performs with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. With his husband and two kids, Kirczenow’s farm is home to Ojibwe horses, goats, turkeys and chickens.

Not only has Kirczenow worked in health care research and published papers, he has a personal connection that allows him to see the pitfalls Manitobans face.

“Our older child has lived with type 1 diabetes for the past 4 years, so we have personal experience with Manitoba’s health care system and pharmacare deductibles,” he explained.

His reason for running in the election came from the inside.

“My kids inspire me! I want future generations to enjoy a healthy planet,” he explained. “The Manitoba Liberal Party has

consistently been a voice for citizens who are concerned about the environment, particularly in regard to keeping our water clean.”

Kirczenow is not shy to criticize the PC government and is skeptical of all the recent announcements.

“The PCs are famous for making funding announcements but taking a very long time to follow through on them, if at all,” he noted. “It’s easy to announce great intentions, but without thoughtful implementation it means nothing.”

As an example of not giving enough thought to the decisions, he points out something he can relate to, an announcement of something that looks good on paper but in reality doesn’t work.

“While the PC government has recently added some badly needed diabetes supplies to pharmacare – such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors for adults – pharmacare deductibles in this province are set so high that many people end up paying for their supplies completely out of pocket even though the supplies are supposedly ‘covered’,” he explained.

He points to another failure with the current government who has been accused of not protecting seniors. He believes the Manitoba Liberal Party has a great idea.

“We need an independent seniors’ advocate, improved staffing levels, and added nurse practitioners in care homes,” he said.

The Sio Silica project approval is a major issue with many residents concerned about protecting their water quality and Kirczenow is not shy to voice his stance.

“I am personally against this project,” he explained. “To me, our water supply is not worth the risk. I don’t feel that the research paid for by the company has been fully independent. I can’t support the use of this extraction method since it hasn’t been proven to be safe. We can’t allow our region’s water supply to be the test case on this!”

Even an announcement from the government that they signed an MOU with a solar panel manufacturer that could be worth billions in revenue and thousands of jobs will not convince him to compromise.

“No amount of jobs will ever be worth our safe water supply,” he explains. “Jobs and money should not affect this decision, but these factors are surely putting a lot of pressure on the government, which is concerning.”

Kirczenow believes a newly elected government needs to stop providing such massive tax breaks to big corporations and focus on families.”

“[They] need help with the rising cost of living, especially groceries and other basic needs,” he added.

The way the government has dealt with the recent strike action of public employees can be seen as hypocritical, he noted and the MLP would have handled it differently.

“We would negotiate respectfully with unions,” he explained. “These workers are asking for increases that are on par with what the politicians voted to give themselves. That seems only fair, doesn’t it?”

Editors Notes:

PC candidate Ron Schuler was reached out through the main PC Party office when requesting his campaign contact information. No reply was received by press deadline.

The Manitoba Green Party had no candidate nominated by press deadline.

Incumbent PC candidate Ron Schuler.

Tammy Ivanco has been nominated as the candidate for the Manitoba NDP.

Trevor Kirczenow has accepted the nomination to run in Springfield-Ritchot for the Manitoba Liberal Party.

Lac du Bonnet Constituency: Ewasko Defends Actions Amid Opposition Criticism

By Dan Guetre

Elected to office back in 2011, incumbent Manitoba PC candidate Wayne Ewasko is not shy in responding to criticism his government is facing asking Manitobans to focus on the facts.

Both the Manitoba Liberal Party and the Manitoba NDP Party have accused the Manitoba PC Party of making a rash of announcements recently to try and get voters to forget the past.

“[The] announcements we’ve made and continue to make are a result of 7 years of hard work and careful planning to ensure that promises we made to Manitobans in 2016 and 2019 are being kept and we are still on track to meet beyond 2023,” defended Ewasko. “Our commitments are not only costed out but financially backed and underway.”

Ewasko wants to remind voters of what they inherited in 2016 when elected.

“When we took over government in 2016 we inherited a deficit of $900 million (without a world-wide pandemic), a provincial debt which the NDP tripled in 12 years to $25 Billion (without a world-wide pandemic and not including another $25 Billion in MB Hydro Debt) and there were over $1 billion in unfunded NDP promises, including the Lac du Bonnet Personal Care Home,” he pointed out.

Ewasko explained that his government is taking “a realistic commitment to heal healthcare in Manitoba.”

“With a record investment of $7.9 billion we continue to reduce diagnostics and surgical backlog, will expand both rural and Winnipeg hospitals and retain and attract 2,000 more healthcare professionals to Manitoba,” he explained. “In addition to this, we have 300 nurses from the Philippines who have already started arriving in Manitoba.”

He pointed out the major capital projects underway all over the province including the St. Boniface ER, St. Boniface Cardiac centre, Cancercare in Brandon, HSC Surgical Centre for Excellence, ICU expansion at Grace Hospital, and new hospital in Neepawa, not to mention $1.5 billion in expansion and improvements to HSC.

While the global pandemic did put pressure on the healthcare

system, he wants to remind Manitobans that the Manitoba NDP made decisions that took time to recoup from.

“Labour shortages are being felt across all provinces and please remember that even without a global pandemic and nursing shortage, the Selinger-Kinew NDP shut the doors on over 16 rural Manitoba ERs, and never planned for the Human Resource shortage,” he noted.

Ewasko is proud of his government’s record of building the childcare spaces needed for Manitobans.

“We have implemented a $151 million program specifically geared towards childcare professional training, recruitment, and retention,” he said. “Some of the specific funding areas are $93 million for increased wages, $24 million to create 1,000 new training spaces, $7.4 million in recruitment assistance, $10 million in tuition reimbursement, which has assisted 663 applicants to date.”

This funding was necessary, according to Ewasko, after his government committed to increasing spaces by 23,000 which “we are nearly 50% of the way there, a couple years ahead of schedule.”

“The NDP’s plan on Childcare was to grow the waitlist, make childcare less affordable and not value the great work our early childhood educators do,” he added.

Ewasko pointed out that under the leadership of Premier Heather Stefanson their PC government, in January created the Ministry of Senior’s and Long-term Care.

“We are enhancing housing options and care planning, community and caregiver supports, transportation, health and wellbeing, safety and security, and financial and legal matters for seniors and those in long-term care,” he explained. “The recruitment and training programs and initiatives that are helping heal healthcare are also benefitting senior’s care.”

Additionally he said a partnership with Assiniboine Community College to provide nursing training in Beausejour to help with staffing is something he is proud of.

“The NDP totally ignored our region for their 17 years in government,” he said.

Ewasko sees nothing wrong in their handling of the widely criticized Sio Silica proposed project standing by the decisions to let it works it way through the process rather than a kneejerk response.

“The clean environment commission’s report has been received following their independent technical review and public hearings,” he noted. “Recognizing community and public interest in this project, our government made the report public, in a timely and transparent manner.”

He stands by allowing the department environmental experts to complete their due diligence, follow up with indigenous consultation, and seek experts’ input before licensing decision is being made.

“We want to assure everyone that our government places utmost importance on the safety of drinking water and the protection of our environment,” he assured. “As you know, I grew up on a small farm southwest of Beausejour, and Tracey and I raised our family in the same area. I remain committed to protecting our drinking water and environment.”

Ewasko reminds Manitobans that the Manitoba PC government has made many great announcements and delivered on them for growing the economy and job creation since they formed the government in 2016.

While not elaborating with specifics, Ewasko stated that “there’s even more great news and announcements coming up from our PC team.”

When it comes to education, Ewasko is willing to stand on his record and his experience.

“I have had the honour to be the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning since January of 2022,” he explained. “As a teacher and guidance counsellor for 17 years, part of the reason I ran to become the MLA for Lac du Bonnet was because of the poor record the NDP had on education.”

He accusing the NDP, in their 17 years of government, of taking Manitoba from third in Canada in regards to numeracy, literacy and science to dead last with no plan to address this.

“We have made many accomplishments in the seven years that

we have been in government,” he stated. “We did the K-12 commission which is the first commission done on education here in Manitoba since 1959. Out of that came the K-12 Action Plan.”

He is proud of his government’s investment in education.

“Funding to education since 2016 has increased by 123%,” he said. “Whilst still returning 50% of education tax from property back to property owners.”

He blamed any criticism skewed towards a skilled labour shortage on a global phenomena.

“When I was Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration we put forward the Skills Talent and Knowledge strategy to address labor issues by partnering with businesses, labor and our postsecondary institutions,” he pointed out. “We also have a plan that we’ve already started enacting to help with teacher recruitment and retention in all, English, French and Francais.”

He accused the Manitoba NDP of having no such plan to deal with the shortages.

Registered Nurse Kathy Majowski who lives in Tyndall with her husband and daughter is seeking to unseat the incumbent. She is the nominated candidate for the Manitoba NDP in the Lac du Bonnet constituency.

She is a volunteer and member of several organizations, such as the 4P Festival, the Pioneer Village Museum, and the Beau-Head Arts Fest.

“These activities combined with my experience in health care, passion for helping others, and advocacy work makes me the strongest candidate for this upcoming election,” she believes.

Majowski said that years of PC austerity and regressive policies have negatively impacted the entire region.

“Our schools and daycares are starved for resources, few have appropriate access to essential services like healthcare to be able to exercise the right to age in place with dignity,” she explained. “We need real representation and development to make this a place where people want to stay rather than be forced to leave.”

She does admit her candidacy is also personal.

“Working on the frontlines of

healthcare in the last 7 years, I’ve witnessed too many seniors who were forced to live without resources or care,” she admitted. “The very institutions and systems created to provide care became the reason for suffering through sustained austerity and dismissal of the concerns of front line workers.”

Rather than be complacent, she decided to take some action.

“I realized that it was time for me to stop trying to fix a broken system one patient at a time and to look towards a role that could contribute to making the changes that I know are needed,” she stated.

Majowski accused the Stefanson PCs of carrying on a legacy of lofty promises, only to then break them through austerity and misdirection, leaving Manitobans with the shortfall.

“The inability to attract or even retain healthcare workers is only one example of this government’s failure to seniors and rural Manitobans trying to maintain a quality of life,” she pointed out. “I have heard too many families tell me that they travel hours and hundreds of kilometers daily over poor and crumbling roads and through daunting weather to either visit loved ones in Winnipeg or get them urgently needed care, or even to make simple diagnostic appointments.”

She doesn’t believe these recent PC spending announcements are fooling Manitobans.

“Like the false and ugly American style ads about our party leader, Wab Kinew, the Tories can’t sustain themselves on their party record or their failed economic plans and so are mudslinging falsehoods to divide voters and distract from multiple years of cuts,” she explained. “They have tried to play Lac du Bonnet voters for fools, and I believe voters see right through this sham. It is time for a change.”

She added that the emergency in senior’s care and Long Term Care Homes is another great example of too little too late from the PCs, especially right in the town of Lac du Bonnet itself.

“This scarcity has been created by the current PC government and has been deferred for too long, or at least until an election has run out the clock on the Stefanson

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

Lac du Bonnet Constituency: Ewasko Defends Actions

Amid Opposition Criticism

government and only now they come to the public with the promise of doing what was their job in the first place,” she stated.

Majowski says she participated in focus groups and consultations during the development of the senior strategy, and was disappointed when many of the issues that were identified were left out of the final strategy.

“For example, many of my colleagues recognize the need for more home care services so that people can stay in their homes longer and stay out of hospitals, something that was brought up in all the of the consultation meetings I was a part of,” she elaborated. “But the only commitment made in the senior strategy was to increase funding to one specialized area of home care, an area that is largely dependent on clients or family members managing the hiring of direct care staff or private health agencies.”

While she criticized PC government’s handling of the silica sand project proposal, she said Manitobans need to trust that the NDP will “strike [a] critical balance and facilitate both these legitimate needs” based on the CEC report and fact-based evidence.

“Projects like the proposed mining operation need to be carefully studied, and equally important in making decisions is that the wishes of the families and people living there are also considered,” she explained. “Only through provincial regulation and guidance can a balance be struck that allows for sustainable development to proceed.”

West Hawk Lake resident Blair Mahaffy has come forward to campaign in the Lac du Bonnet constituency for the Manitoba Green Party.

He is a software developer by trade and believes his strong sense of community service and passion is for electoral reform will make him resonate with voters.

“I am a strong proponent of the Green vision of sustainability

across all aspects of our world - from the environment to social justice to the economy,” he explained. “At a time when we should be coming together to deal with a climate emergency, we’re seeing an increase in divisive politics. As such, we need the Green values of consensus building, cooperation, and sustainability on the ballot.”

The recent flow of announcements from the Manitoba PC government has him concerned.

“There do appear to be a lot of empty, perhaps even harmful, promises that pander to special interests,” he noted.

The recent education announcement really didn’t amount to much, he added.

“Most of the curriculum transparency already exists, so nothing new there,” he elaborated. “They made no promises to protect school libraries from book banning, and hinted following other Conservative provinces in the harmful practice of forcing schools to out 2SLGBTQIA+ youth to their families.”

He accuses the Manitoba PC Party of making costly and distracting announcements such as the “carbon relief” and “parental rights” while not directly tackling things like cost of living for low income earners.

Coming up with a flurry of promises just before an election is a government more focused on messaging than substance, he added.

“Greens are committed to ongoing consultation, process improvement, and good governance through tools such as citizen’s assemblies, transparency, and consensus building techniques, and commit to including reconciliation and cultural diversity training in education and healthcare settings,” he stated.

Mahaffy would prefer to task communities with solutions to problems we have today, including the vulnerable.

“I’d like to see us remove barriers to development of quality community-based housing for seniors and

Continued from Page 12...

young alike,” he noted.

Mahaffy advocates for the province to reject the licensing for the Sio Silica project.

“Sio [Silica] should not have been given permission to drill test wells near Vivian without appropriate environmental assessments being done first, and community groups should have been given financial support to hire independent professional analysis of the project,” he added. “Greens would change our priority setting so that the well being of our water, wetlands, and wilds comes first in new development projects.”

Decarbonize economies will open up many opportunities to stimulate the economy, provide quality training, and create jobs, said Mahaffy.

He suggests implementing tier 4 construction efficiency standards, upgrading home insulation and heating systems, investing in agrovoltaics and other innovative agricultural techniques such as using drones to replace some large machinery applications.

“We also envision investing in upstream healthcare solutions by training and hiring a wide range of preventative and restorative healthcare professionals in an effort to reduce critical care costs and the loss of productivity that accompanies health problems,” he added.

A Green government would have taken responsibility for public service strikes that reared their heads recently.

“Instead of trying to place the blame on an opposition party and the union, we would have been prepared to sit down in a spirit of respect, problem solving, and consensus building to proactively seek a satisfactory solution before getting to the point of a strike,” he explained.

Editor’s Note: As of press deadline, the Manitoba Liberal Party did not have a candidate nominated for Lac du Bonnet.

HoW to votE: Election day voting hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

On election day, you can vote at any polling place in your electoral division. You will receive information from Elections Manitoba telling you where you can vote. If you don’t receive information, contact us or look up your address.

Go to your polling place. An election official will direct you to the next available polling station. ID is required: One piece of government-issued photo ID or two other pieces. Voters on the voters list who do not have ID may have another voter with ID from the same electoral division vouch for them. Show your ID to the election official at the polling station. If your name is on the voters list and you have acceptable ID or someone to vouch for you, you will receive a ballot in a secrecy sleeve.

If your name is not on the voters list, show your ID. You will have to take an oath confirming your identity. If none of your ID shows your address, you will also be asked to sign a declaration of address. Take your ballot behind the screen and fill the circle beside the name of the candidate of your choice. If you need assistance marking your ballot, an election official can help you, or you can bring someone with you to help. Return your ballot in its secrecy sleeve to the election official at the ballot box, who will then place your ballot in the box or vote counting machine.

Incumbent Manitoba PC candidate Wayne Ewasko.

Kathy Majowski is the nominated candidate for the Manitoba NDP in the Lac du Bonnet constituency.

Blair Mahaffy has come forward to campaign in the Lac du Bonnet constituency for the Manitoba Green Party.

La Vérendrye: The Battle to Replace Smook

By Dan Guetre

With the announcement that Manitoba PC MLA Dennis Smook would not seek another term in La Vérendrye, putting aside political allegiance, each candidate is starting on equal footing.

Konrad Narth is the new candidate for the Manitoba PC Party and is hoping to keep the constituency Tory blue.

Out of the gate, Narth denied that the slew of recent announcement coming out of the government were a veiled attempt to distract voters from the Manitoba PC record.

“Our PC Team’s 2023 Budget is focused on helping Manitobans make ends meet with affordability measures and lowering taxes, while making record key investments in Education, Healthcare and Seniors,” said Narth. “The PC plan will help Manitoba grow and seize the opportunities ahead.”

In the defense of his party’s healthcare record, Narth argued that “healthcare didn’t break overnight and it won’t be fixed overnight.”

“The NDP closed 16 rural ER’s during their 17 years in government,” he added. “We have been working to correct those past mistakes and improve services across the board.”

He believes the Manitoba PC plan to spend $400 million on a Health Human Resources Action Plan is specifically geared to correct the damage and even add 2,000 healthcare workers across the province.

“In addition to this we have 300 nurses from the Philippines who have already started arriving in Manitoba,” he noted.

“We have major capital projects underway all over the province including the St. Boniface ER, St. Boniface Cardiac Centre, Cancercare in Brandon, HSC Surgical Centre for Excellence, ICU expansion at Grace Hospital, and new hospital in Neepawa, not to mention $1.5 Billion in expansion and improvements

Narth is adamant that the opposition criticism is unfounded and shows that the other parties are being willfully ignorant to the great work they are doing and will continue to do with regards to

“We have implemented a $151 million program specifically geared towards childcare professional training, recruit-

Another example of his party’s record is with the creation of the Ministry of Senior’s and Long-term Care in Janu-

Narth believes the decision for the Sio Silica project approval needs to be left in

“The application is still being assessed based upon the requirements of the The Environment Act. Once their deliberations are complete, the Department of Environment and Climate will make the Narth, similarly to his fellow Mani-

toba PC candidates would not respond to how his party plans to create economic development in the province, only theme repeated theme of “Stay tuned for some exciting announcements from the PC team” but he did mention a few attributes about his constituency.

“From a personal standpoint coming from a business background, I see the tremendous opportunities when you are able to support entrepreneurial growth,” he stated. “La Vérendrye is rich in agricultural and entrepreneurial excellence and with government support and reduction in barriers the opportunities are endless.”

The PC Team has put historic investments into the education system, he said.

“Increases in funding of this level haven’t been seen in 40 years, in fact education makes up 25% of the government’s total expenditures, second only to health,” he added. “Education funding was increased by $100 million dollars, or 6.1%. We are very proud of the 23 new schools that we are building. Our team is the only party that is placing the needs and interests of students and parents first.”

Monica Guetre is the Manitoba Liberal Party candidate who is seeking to not only become the new MLA but change the colour of the constituency.

Growing up in southeast Manitoba and now calling the La Broquerie area home, she has a professional designation in international trade compliance.

She is hopeful her volunteering experience, which includes working on developing policies and economic development will resonate with the voters.

According to Guetre, great solutions come about by first listening and using common sense.

“All problems have a practical solution,” she noted. “Sometimes a solution is comprise, where we meet somewhere around the middle.” She expressed that she is tired of seeing tax dollars go to waste and wants to see improved transparency and responsibility.

“We’ve all seen costs go up,” she stressed. “It costs more now to put a roof over our head and food on the table. There are roadblocks to seeing a doctor, and we have a failing educational system. It’s harder to start a family, grow our businesses and age in our community.”

It is the Manitoba Liberal Party that clearly stands out with long-term common sense solutions rather than knee jerk reactions, she added.

“It’s crazy to see the current PC government throwing around millions of dollars in an effort to buy our votes right before the provincial election,” she noted. “It makes me wonder what kind of debt they are racking up with all of their promises and what the heck they were doing with our tax dollars. They sure weren’t using

our money for our health care, education, municipalities or encouraging our entrepreneurs.”

Delayed healthcare is healthcare denied, she stated.

“Manitoba has the lowest number of physicians per capita in Canada,” she said. “I’ts no wonder why we have to wait in the emergency room for hours, wait to see a specialist or wait months and months for surgery or had a family member die because they’ve been waiting too long.”

Guetre believes in the Manitoba Liberal Party Strategy to create a cash bonus system to attract and retain public health care professionals.

“We believe offering bonuses of $10,000 to nurses and health professionals in the public system and a $5,000 bonus to Healthcare Workers and Team Members, including homecare workers will help,” she explained. “A separate $10,000 bonus will be issued for nurses and health professionals who return to the public system.”

She accuses the past governments of being short-sighted when it comes to education.

“We are the only ones that have a 10year education plan based on a partnership with teachers, parents, students and school divisions along with a curriculum review with the goal of ensuring national international best practices and the best outcomes for students,” she noted.

She added that bringing back the postsecondary tuition rebate program will offset the cost to students in order to encourage graduates to stay in Manitoba.

She accused the Manitoba PC government of dropping the ball when announcing all the new daycare spaces without rolling out a program to train, retain and attract childcare workers.

“Higher wages are needed to attract and retain people in choosing a career in early learning and childcare,” she insists. “It’s also important to ensure that early learning and child care funding is directed to our post secondary programs.”

Guetre is proud it was the Manitoba Liberal Party who developed the idea to create a non-partisan Senior’s Advocate program.

“This independent Senior’s Advocate office will have the power to take complaints, investigate reports of mistreatment and abuse and launch unannounced inspections of facilities to ensure compliance,” elaborated Guetre.

She notes that the Manitoba Liberal strategy is to also place nurse practitioners in care homes and provide more staff so seniors can be assured of improved care and attention.

“To protect seniors from evictions we will also prevent future sell-offs of seniors’ housing by bringing in legislation requiring the Minister to sign off on future sales,” she added with the commitment of ensuring affordable rents for seniors.

Guetre is committed to see that Sio Sil-

Monica Guetre is the Manitoba Liberal Party candidate.

Konrad Narth is the new candidate for the Manitoba PC Party.

Bianca Siem, the Manitoba NDP Candidate for LA Vérendrye.

La Vérendrye: The Battle to Replace Smook

ica and their plan to “frack” drill into the aquifer is denied a license.

“We don’t have enough tax dollars to clean up the planned disaster that will release carcinogens and neurotoxins into our water,” she explained.

Before her current work in trade compliance, Guetre received a degree in Geology and believes that not all mining is bad.

“We’ve benefitted from mining for decades and will continue to do so,” she explained. “But approval steps should not be missed. All mining projects should be reviewed for community impact, environmental and clean water before being given the green light.”

An independent Manitoba Business Development Bank, part of the Manitoba Liberal Party plan would help the economy grow, said Guetre. She added that with the diverse entrepreneurs throughout La Vérendrye, this could have a huge positive impact.

“We should be growing our Manitoba businesses rather than using our limited tax dollars to fund only a few selected businesses,” she noted. “To grow our economy, it’s the Manitoba Liberal Party that knows that small business and farming operations are essential to our province.”

There hasn’t been enough focus on home grown Manitoba entrepreneurs who will have the same opportunity to lower risk financing rather than just the few that have received millions from this current government, she explained.

She believes the current government has the wrong attitude when it come to public servants.

“Strikes go on longer when the provincial government ignores its obligations while they are acting,” stated Guetre. “They certainly are not doing anyone favours by dragging their heels until well after an agreement expires.”

Guetre believes that is the government ties in the consumer price index to agreements, those agreements can be longer and benefit both sides when it comes to negotiations.

Bianca Siem, the Manitoba NDP Candidate for LA Vérendrye, grew up in rural Manitoba. Surrounded by hardworking families, teachers and seniors that wanted to see the best for their community, she is running in the provincial election as a way to give back.

“I have been a long-time volunteer in the community, starting from school, and then local hospitals, to now all over,” said Siem who is a university student.

Siem says the struggles with friends, neighbours and family are real and rural municipalities are running on fumes.

“There has been a 7-year funding freeze to our municipalities, and I am concerned that our growing towns and RMs will have their resources exhausted with another term of the PCs,” she explained.

With her parents getting older, Siem is concerned about the state of healthcare in the province.

“The Manitoba NDP is the party with the best Healthcare plan and will make lives more affordable for others which is

why I am a part of this team,” she admitted.

Siem accuses the Manitoba PC government of pandering, coming out with announcement after announcement.

“Over the past years with the PCs in charge, our rural paramedics have been asking for fair wages,” she noted. “We are now seeing before an election, the PCs trying to make up for lost time when it is too late, and we are currently living with the impacts of their decision.”

Siem points out that with no one registered in the advance care paramedic course last year and there are now 200 vacancies in rural paramedics. She fully supports the NDP’s Rural Healthcare Plan. She says it will “focus on the retention and training of these professional so that we can keep them long-term.”

Even the touted $10/day daycare announcement is fair gain to criticize says Siem.

“We have working parents in La Broquerie who have had their day care shut down and have been out options as waitlist are too long or their kids will not be accepted as they are not needed for fulltime care, only for those hours in between school and work.”

She says the PC plan has holes as it will not support the families that are currently struggling right now to find childcare options as the school turn starts again.

Siem accuses the PCs of historically turning their backs on seniors and ignoring the reported elder abuse.

“I have heard the heartbreaking stories from seniors who just have their mental health broken,” she said. “As a part of the NDP, we will give seniors the care and love they deserve by increasing homecare hours, responding to the needs of the caregivers, building more PCH beds, and installing a Seniors Advocate to investigate elder abuse.”

The Manitoba Green Party has nominated Riley Unger as their candidate in La Vérendrye. He takes over from La Vérendrye resident Janine Gibson, Manitoba Green Party leader who decided to run in the constituency of Wolseley.

Unger, is from Kleefeld and currently a university student.

“I chose to run for the Green Party because of their inclusiveness and making everyone feel welcome,” explained Unger. “I think the Green Party represents all the best of Canada because of the friendly nature of the party as well as the strong connection and experience to the earth.”

Unger joins the chorus of other candidates that the Manitoba PC government is attempting to “buy the votes.”

“This is a question Manitobans should all consider before voting because lots of other parties have long been advocating for policies that are only now being considered by the current government, two months before the election,” he explained. “If you are listening to what your MLAs are saying, as well as where and when they are saying it, we can avoid attempts at ‘vote buying’ because it is easy to make promises right before an election.”

Unger believes the Sio Silica project is

not something the Green Party supports.

“The reason [for the process] is that we need to give a fair assessment to projects in our democratic society, but the risk this project presents is not worthwhile because water quality is a human right and not worth risking for anything,” he noted. “Our democracy is run by people, not businesses and I think the people have made it clear that they will not support any silica mining project.”

He is not afraid to take it even a step further.

“If the PC are re-elected this fall it is clear Manitobans have little care for their province,” he quipped.

Unger believes that supporting local businesses, rather then selling off Manitoba to outsiders will help create economic development.

As for the recent strike, Unger’s message is clear to the government.

“Pay the employees,” he stated. “Crown corporations are vital to the Manitoban and Canadian economy. The sooner we pay our public servants and avoid strikes, the more comfortable and engaged people will be in society.”

La Vérendrye has a fairly fresh political party making its mark in this provincial election.

Matthew Wiebe is the Keystone Party candidate nominated for La Vérendrye.

Working as a framer and raising his family in the RM of Hanover, Wiebe believes he gives a new slant on the political scene.

“I’m a perfect candidate because I am blue collar at heart,” explained Wiebe. “I am someone who understands hard work and team work and politics requires both.”

Wiebe admits he is not a politician.

“I won’t tell people what they want to hear but tell them the truth as I know it,” he added.

By staying true to the Keystone Party principals, I believe we can make positive change for the people in La Verendrye.

Wiebe says that over the years he has noticed that no matter what politicians say there is never any tangible change.

“Regardless of their promises, our voices remain unheard,” he said. “The status quo of merely speaking ‘to’ the people is insufficient. I want to be a different kind of candidate - a voice for the people.”

Wiebe says the Keystone Party is rooted in service and that is what he wants.

“I want to bring the servant back to civil servant,” he noted.

The recent announcements made by the legacy parties are all significant and will leave a lasting impression on voters, he added.

“They are attempting to buy votes and I don’t believe there is much truth to them,” he said.

His philosophy… “The government can’t give you anything they haven’t taken from you first.”

Wiebe believes the “legacy parties” are all guilty of building a bloated bureaucracy.

“[They] will employ more civil servants to produce more regulations that

will make putting things like daycares in place impossible,” said Wiebe. “One of our core principles is to make the government smaller, not grow it further. We believe in fostering an environment where innovation thrives, not red tape.”

When asked for his position on the Sio Silica project proposal believe we should not restrict the development of our natural resources.

“However, we do need to be aware of potential water issues,” he pointed out. “We need to hold companies to high standards with continuous updates on the water table, with transparency between all departments. If at any time they have been found to falsify information, there needs to be stronger penalties such as jail time.”

As for economic development, Wiebe advocates for less to create more.

“Government overreach has become excessive and is stifling the growth of our economy,” he explained. “We need to cut red tape to allow Manitobans to, not only succeed, but thrive. We need to reduce costs, and encourage responsible resource development. Private citizens need to be able to run their business without government intervention. Keystone plans to bring back that autonomy.”

The Manitoba Green Party has nominated Riley Unger as their candidate in La Vérendrye.

Matthew Wiebe is the Keystone Party candidate nominated for La Vérendrye.

Dawson Trail Constituency: PC and NDP Face Green Wild Card

By Dan Guetre

Manitoba PC Party nominee Bob Lagassé will now face his third test at the ballot box and has started swinging.

Lagassé is adamant his government is not “buying” votes, something the other candidates are accusing the PCs of doing after dozens of announcements linked to millions of dollars are being spread across the province.

“Our PC Team is focused on helping Manitobans make ends meet with affordability measures and lowering taxes while making record investments in Education, Healthcare and Infrastructure,” said Lagassé in response. “Our PC plan will help Manitoba grow and seize the opportunities ahead.”

Lagassé stands behind his government’s record on child and seniors care.

“[The] criticism is unfounded and shows that the other parties are being willfully ignorant to the great work we are doing and will continue to do with regard to Child and Seniors care,” he argued reiterating the same financial figures and identical wording his peers responded with. “The NDP voted against

Similarly, Lagassé’s responses to questions on the Sio Silica project, economic development and education were the identical responses, word for word of the other Manitoba PC candidates.

The Manitoba NDP in Dawson Trail is being represented by Lorette resident

“My family and I are active community members and are passionate about creating a better future in Dawson Trail for all,” he said. “I believe that I have demonstrated myself to be the best candidate for Dawson Trail through my activism and ongoing work for this com-

According to Wiebe, he is involved as a volunteer for several organizations such as the Lorette Family Fun Group and Gifts of Grace, and has also been an advocate for seniors, education, healthcare, the environment, and childcare.

Wiebe’s goal is to turn Dawson Trail into a “have” constituency rather than a

“Seven years of PC cuts have negatively impacted our community,” said Wiebe. “Our schools and daycares are bursting at the seams, very few of us can find family doctors, and Ste. Anne’s ER is too often closed in the evenings.”

After a personal tragedy, seeing first hand some problems within the healthcare system due to cuts, Wiebe said he had an epiphany.

“It was a life changing experience that caused me to reevaluate my priorities,” said Wiebe. “Other people were suffering in that hospital, many alone and primarily due to healthcare cuts. I decided that day to be the change that I wanted to see in the world and to take on a life of service to my community.”

He believes the Manitoba PCs have a tragic history of making promises and then breaking them through cuts.

“For example, this government’s architect Brian Pallister himself, cut a rural doctor recruitment fund designed to attract more healthcare workers to rural

Manitoba when he first took office. Now we are in a situation years later where Ste. Anne’s ER is closed in the evenings and it is nearly impossible to find a doctor in Dawson Trail.”

He said he has heard too many families tell him that in a healthcare emergency, they don’t even call for an ambulance.

“Paramedics are too few, along with nurses and other professionals, due to the cuts,” explained Wiebe. “No service or care in a crisis is the result.”

He disagrees with Manitoba PC Lagassé that the announcements are just part of the plan.

“The PCs are making a lot of these announcements to distract voters from seven years of cuts and a system they themselves broke,” noted Wiebe. “Press releases don’t make up for years of suffering, much less plan to grow a community worth living in.”

Wiebe accuses the Manitaba PCs of taking the Dawson Trail voters for granted.

“We need actual representation and a real change in government,” he said.

The daycare emergency is a great example of how announcements were made with very little thought, he added to the list of failures.

“The PCs have promised to build more daycares in Dawson Trail, yet without daycare staff, how can we reduce wait times to get our children in?” he questioned. “In some areas, there are hundreds of children on those wait lists. We need more staff, and the $10/day daycare only applies to some families. Empty or unworkable promises don’t do much to get your child into a daycare. How can we attract young families here when there are no basic essential services?”

Look at how the PCs treat the people we depend on, such as rural paramedics and nurses, he added.

“They have been asking for fair wages and to provide a full scope of care for over five years,” he explained. “Now on the eve of an election, the PCs are dangling long overdue funds to make up for their negligence and the now 200 vacancies in rural paramedics. This didn’t happen overnight - it was the result of years of bullying from the Manitoba PCs when paramedics and nurses had reasonable demands. It is part of a legacy with this PC government that doesn’t care about working Manitobans.”

He accused the Manitoba PCs of ignoring elder abuse.

“I have knocked on many doors in Dawson Trail, and this is an issue that comes up time and time again,” he explained.

“The seniors in Paradise Village, for example, want a home to age in place with dignity and without fear. When they experienced bullying from upper management, the Manitoba PCs responded with nothing more than a brief meeting and a photo op. I have met with these seniors to voice their concerns to our caucus.”

Wiebe believes the Manitoba PCs have been suspiciously quiet about the Sio Silica proposal.

“One reason is money,” said Wiebe. “David Filmon, former PC Premier Gary Filmon’s son, is on the Sio Silica Board. I don’t have confidence that we can trust

the Manitoba PCs with the future of our drinking water when PC donors and family sit on that board.”

He points out that the majority of experts, as well, have grave concerns about this project.

“I wish that the current PC had similar concerns about this project and its consequences instead of rushing ahead to line the pockets of the PC donors with money,” he added. “We need to listen to the CEC and follow fact-based recommendations so that our drinking water and environment is sustainable.”

Wiebe believes economic development can take shape many ways such as stopping the practice of contracting jobs with out of province corporations and investing in our province by creating good, sustainable jobs for Manitobans.

“In rural Manitoba, for example, this involves reversing the cuts to infrastructure and maintenance, and investing in snow clearing, and maintaining gravel roads, ditches and culverts,” he added.

IT professional Marcel Broesky is the Manitoba Green Party candidate in Dawson Trail, living just outside of Richer.

“I joined the [Green] party as of 2023 as a follow up to an inquiry in the last provincial election as to why we don’t have a local Green option on the ballot,” said Broesky. “I live in an off-grid home with a view towards a sustainable future for generations to come. Grass roots movements need to start somewhere and I’m happy to take on the civic duty.”

Critical of the Manitoba PC’s recent announcements, Broesky says it is hard to believe that the citizens of Manitoba cannot see the disruption to health care each and every medical visit.

“I should think that we see through these ploys,” he added.

With rising inflation, Broesky feels like we can do a lot more than just eliminate PST on will preparation, reduction of vehicle registration, and curbing Education Property Taxes. He believes we can think bigger.

“I’m a proponent of rural rapid transit solutions and servicing all Manitobans,” he explained.

With the Sio Silica project still on the table, be feels the current government put the cart before the horse.

“An environmental impact study should have been performed by an impartial 3rd party in advance of any testing,” he noted. “Only after a satisfactory report should the project be allowed to proceed.”

Broesky also believes the current construction standards do not align with the carbon foot print of Canadians.

He added that while we might benefit from predominantly hydro-electric power production, reduction in consumption would pay off on all fronts.

Innovative green technologies and the businesses that deliver them could benefit as we move away from the environmental impact of mass hydro projects and switch to cleaner power.

Editor’s Note: As of press deadline, the Manitoba Liberal Party did not have a candidate nominated for Dawson Trail.

Manitoba PC Party nominee Bob Lagassé.

Manitoba NDP candidate Chris Wiebe.

Marcel Broesky is the Manitoba Green Party candidate in Dawson Trail,

Frog Follies Always Hopping

The St. Pierre Frog Follies held in mid-August along side their agricultural fair was not only hopping with frogs thanks to their long running championship event, but filled with activities for the entire family, including special guest and entertainer Al Simmons. Music, fire acts and First Nations dancers wowed the crowds.

Photo source: Frog Follies/Facebook

Noxious Weed Could Threaten Municipality

By Dan Guetre

According to the RM of Piney, an invasive weed is popping up in the municipality and must be destroyed when identified.

Red bartsia, a Tier 1 weed as per the Noxious Weeds Act, has been found primarily in and around the town of Piney.

In a recent notice, the municipality is letting its residents know Red bartsia can be controlled by using 2,4D and cultivation.

“Red bartsia does not persist under cultivation,” they wrote. “For this reason, it is seldom a problem in cereals and special crops.”

Cultivation in combination with growing a competitive crop will limit Red bartsia infestations. This may not always be a viable alternative since the weed often infests areas not suitable for tillage because of stoniness or poor drainage, they added.

They do point out though the weed is a serious concern in hay land and in pastures.

“In hay fields, the tiny seedlings grow rapidly after the first cut of hay has been removed,” they explained. “Plants begin flowering two to three weeks later, making the danger of seed contamination in the second cut a serious concern. In pasture, the weed is not grazed by cattle, and with time heavy infestations spread through the field.”

There is a solution though to eradicate the weed.

The weed is susceptible to either 2, 4-D amine or 2, 4-D LV ester sprayed at a rate of 0.6 L/acre product (500 g/L formulations). On roadsides and in pastures, spraying should commence as soon as the plants appear. Recheck sprayed areas in mid- to late summer and respray if new seedlings have germinated. In hay fields with no legumes, treat affected areas with 0.6 L/acre product of 2, 4-D (500 g/L formulations) within 10 days after the first cut.

While there are currently no chemical recommendations that will selectively control red bartsia in grass/legume mixes without damaging the legumes, research currently in progress has shown that Sencor and Basagran both show potential for controlling the weed in alfalfa, but further work must be done to establish rates, stages of application and grazing restrictions.

Growers with legumes in their hay or pasture mixes should pay close attention to bordering road allowances or fence lines so that control measures can be taken before Red bartsia encroaches into the field. Evidence indicates that a well managed, well fertilized crop will effectively crowd out Red bartsia.

If you have this weed on your land, please call 204-380-9624.

Municipalities Regulate Airbnb and vRBo Accommodations

By Dan Guetre

Making some extra money by renting out a cabin, trailer or home is easy as 1-2-3 in most municipalities as long as the property owner realizes that “1” is the application for a Conditional Use Permit from their local municipal government.

This requirement also applies to the RM of Piney for any home sharing or short-term rentals which means the renting out of a dwelling (cabin, trailer or home), or a room within a dwelling, on a platform such as Airbnb or VRBO for guests to stay in.

Beyond an approved Conditional Use Permit, the municipality has also defined what

areas this would be allowed. Only properties zoned as Rural Seasonal, Rural Transitional and General Development are permitted. According to their guidelines, any property that is currently zoned agriculture and rural will not be permitted.

Other southeast municipalities have developed or are developing policies to regulate short-term rentals in order to protect land use and potential conflicts between neighbours. If you are planning to rent out that space, it is suggested you call your municipal office and inquire about any restrictions to avoid conflict.

Tolstoi Heritage Centre to Gather Recipes

The Tolstoi Heritage Centre has created a tasty project, a collection of recipes from current and former residents of the Tolstoi area!

If you are interested in contributing to their cookbook, please find 2 or 3 treasured family recipes and submit them using one of the methods listed on their website at tolstoiheritage.ca.

The deadline for submissions is September 30. They hope to have completed cookbooks available at their Christmas Craft and Bake Sale planned for November 18 at the Tolstoi Senior Centre.

They are hoping to other people connected to the Tolstoi area to submit recipes.

Red bartsia ia a Tier 1 weed as per the Noxious Weeds Act.

Dawson Trail Dispatch September 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

New Documentary Series Includes Treasure Hunt for “Lost Gold”

By Dan Guetre

The tales have been passed on for generations about a gold coin stash hidden along the Dawson Trail that, by today’s value, could be worth $1,000,000.

According to Producer, Hannah Hermanson, this intrigued her team to pitch a new documentary series that not only includes a contemporary search for the gold but a portal into the true history of Canada.

“We found the lost treasure was a great hook to tell the story of Métis history and the Red River Resistance,” said Hermanson. “Through the hunt for the lost gold, we tell the history of the Red River Resistance, the Dawson Trail, and the military expedition.”

This will be all told from the perspective of the local Métis population whose families lived through Canadian expansion and colonization, she added.

“Red River Gold” will focus around 1870 and the trove of gold coins that disappeared without a trace.

“The coins were on their way to fund a British military force marching across Canada to stop Louis Riel and the Métis during the Red River Resistance,” explained Hermanson. “The gold has never been recovered and the Royal Mint of England still considers it lost or stolen. And now, a group of Métis treasure seekers want to find it!”

While the story of the lost gold does exist on paper, and the mint of England has record of the coins, which are listed as missing or stolen, the bulk of the information surrounding the gold come from oral histories told by the Métis families that have resided in the area for generations, she added.

Hermanson has over a decade of experience in the television and film industry. After earning her honours degree from Middlesex University in London, she hit the ground running taking on a wide range of roles and responsibilities including Coproducer.

Other Co-producers include Ell McEach ern, Saxon de Cocq and Sam Karney.

Karney is a Métis-Ukrainian filmmaker and McEachern has over twenty years of experience in film and television.

Saxon de Cocq is a Métis writer, director and creative producer and the idea of this project started to evolve.

“The concept was created by Saxon de

Cocq in January of 2022 and then pitched to broadcasters shortly after,” explained Hermanson. “APTN was very interested in the concept and decided to develop it with us.”

The series was written by Saxon de Cocq.

“The desire to tell the story of the Red River Resistance was one that grew out of Saxon’s research on his great grandfather (x3), who was part of Louis Riel’s provisional government,” she added. “When he discovered the story of the lost gold, and how it tied to the Resistance, he knew it would be a perfect hook for telling that part of Canadian history.”

Locally, rancher Mark Lanouette was cast as the rider responsible to move the gold along the newly completed Dawson Trail which wound its way through and over swamps and marshes from Lake of the Woods to the Red River Settlement.

Lanouette was recommended to be cast for the series due to his vast experience and natural comfort on horses and a look that could easily fit in with the era. This was his first time experiencing the wardrobe fitting process and a day of filming that always includes multiple takes. Lanouette even provided his own horse and tack that was appropriate for the era... along with growing a few days of stubble.

“He was the perfect man for the job to help us film our re-enactment scenes of the solider on a horse tossing the gold on the Dawson Trail,” said Hermanson.

Regionally, Pierrette Sherwood, who led the charge to re-establish the importance of the Dawson Trail to the history of Canada and the development of the west, is more than excited to see this project underway. Sherwood leads the Dawson Trail Arts & Heritage (DTAH) committee which has just completed a multi-year project focusing on the heritage, culture and art in the region.

“First off, the history of the Dawson Trail and its lost gold are currently the ‘stars’ of

[this] new series,” she noted. “This is sure to generate a lot of interest for our communities and travel/tourism to the area!”

The timing for filming is almost perfect as the DTAH committee is getting ready for their annual Dawson Trail Arts and Heritage Tour, September 16 and 17 featuring local artists and workshops along the route.

Sherwood is also excited that a fellow committee member, Mireille Lamontagne ahs reported some interest from National Geographic to produce a special feature on the Dawson Trail.

“Thanks to this lead, the Dawson Trail may well come to be known globally!” said Sherwood who has also been nominated for a major provincial tourism award.

According to Hermanson, the development process takes roughly one year “to flesh out storylines, characters, and the history of it all.”

“We received the green light for 13 episodes in July of this year and started filming August 22,” she noted. “It will air on APTN sometime in late 2024.”

Filming is taking place in La Coulee, Richer, Ste. Anne, East Braintree, Winnipeg, Falcon Lake area, all along the Dawson Trail, including the Whitemouth and Brokenhead Rivers. Location production is expected to be complete in early October when the team will start the editing process.

Mark Lanouette picks up a bit of speed on the Dawson Trail.

Laurie Gagne, Bill Marsh, Jesse de Rocquigny, Ross Pambrun, Randy Woods, and Francis Laliberte record the hunt for the “lost” gold

Mark Lanouette, in his first acting experience, looks back to see who may be on his trail to “steal the gold.”

Shortly after wardrobe, actor Mark Lanouette is transported back 150 years.

illa Youville Scooter Adventure

By Lionel Bernier

“Get your motor runnin’, Head out on the highway, Looking for adventure”, these opening words from the song by Steppenwolf, a 1970’s Canadian rock and roll band, sums up this second annual outing by the seniors from La Villa Youville in Ste. Anne. Their theme “bringing joy to the community”.

On a wildfire smoky but sunny day of 25°C on August 15, the seniors departed their home on Central Avenue with decorated scooters to commence their trek down the avenue past their very own cheerleading section of other seniors lined up in wheelchairs to urge them on. Escorted by Constable Jacek Kapka of the Sainte-Anne Police Service, first in line was Marcel Johnson, the Parade Marshall for the second year, who led this pack of determined seniors who were escorted by their own cheerleaders, the young girls from Phoenix Cheer Athletics of Ste. Anne. Bringing up the rear of the convoy was Sergeant Nancy Higgins. For parade safety, traffic was directed by Community Safety Officer, Jeremy Gibson.

Young and old lined the avenue to cheer on these intrepid seniors like the Group of Four of Pat Gagnon, Irène Carrière, Thérèse Bourgouin and Paulette Dittrick who did not venture too far from the villa. But in the case of the young spectators, it was to bag as many of the candy treats that were thrown their way by Cornie Klassen and his “Harem” of Lady Seniors riding the La Villa You ville trailer. And yes, some older spectators availed themselves of these treats also.

The residents of the villa not only decorated their “rides” to greater or lesser degrees, but a few got into the adventurous spir it by donning floral wreaths in the style of the Hawaiian lei or going all out with elaborate costumes.

If there was a best costume component to this senior trek, the hands down winner would have been “Queen” Chanelle D’Amour with her flowing white dress accompanied with her white hat and abundance of colourful flowers and lei. On the male side, this hon our would likely have gone to lollipop sucking, “Bear Paw” Ray mond Gauthier on his decorated high-powered two wheeler.

The elder rider in the parade likely goes to Ms. Marguerite Ar pin who turns 100 years on October 20 of this year. She came prepared with a water bottle perfectly tucked and accessible be tween her knees, with a closed umbrella in case of rain, and with her sense of patriotism in the Canadian flags she carried. Bravo to Ms. Marguerite and her upcoming centennial milestone!

The implementation of such an outing has to be coordinated by someone and who best to do it, was Joanne Comeault, Coordinatrice des services et activités au Pavillon.

The Senior Cheerleaders.

“Bear Paw” Raymond Gauthier

Photos by Lionel Bernier

The Wild Bunch.

The young girls of Phoenix Cheer in step with the theme of the seniors.

Sara Trudeau keeping an eye on Cornie Klassen and his candy tossing Harem of Lady Seniors.

Centenarian, Marguerite Arpin.

Maurice Lavoie and his young Phoenix Cheer escort.

Pat Gagnon, Irène Carrière, Thérèse Bourgouin and Paulette Dittrick.

“Queen” Chanelle D’Amour.

Parade Marshall, Marcel Johnson.

HyLife Deepens Investment in Manitoba with the Opening of New Global Headquarters

HyLife, Canada’s leading pork producer, marks the official relocation of its headquarter to Steinbach.

The move is a significant milestone in the company’s journey. Spanning an impressive 47,462 square feet, the new HyLife headquarters is situated in the Millbrook Market development, strategically located in the heart of Steinbach.

“Our company’s roots are in Manitoba, so it makes sense to give an opportunity to local businesses,” said Kevin Barkman, Senior VP Infrastructure and Environmental Affairs for HyLife. “More than two-thirds of the trades people that built our new HyLife headquarters are directly from the Steinbach area. We are proud of this rural collaboration.”

“This is more than a building; it is a new home and anchor for HyLife that we hope will become a community landmark,” said Grant Lazaruk, President & Chief Executive Officer of HyLife. “After several years envisioning, planning, and building, we look forward to settling in and collaborating in this world-class space.”

Steinbach’s Mayor, Earl Funk, was on hand to celebrate the grand opening, and is confident that this move will give the city an economic boost.

“We anticipate that the opening of this state-of-the-art facility will influence other large businesses to move here, further solidifying Steinbach as a centre for hightech agribusiness opportunities,” shared Funk. “With HyLife’s operations having the international scope, we look forward to this opening bringing Steinbach recognition, not only at the local table, but at the global table as well.”

Rural Manitoba’s construction industry is also feeling the positive impact. HyLife prioritized home grown partnerships throughout the project, three Way Builders and PennLite were responsible for construction and electric/mechanical work, while Manitoba’s Cibinel Architecture oversaw the design.

“A remarkable aspect that stood out was HyLife’s profound dedication to nurturing the local economy; an astounding majority – over two thirds – of the project was skillfully executed by gifted local trades people and suppliers,” added Nic Thiessen, President, Three Way Builders. “This profound alignment with the community echoes the deep-rooted values of HyLife, exemplified not just through their presence at local

events, but as an organic extension of their core belief in enriching their communities.”

Sustainability was also key in the construction of the headquarters, with various ecofriendly features integrated into its design. The four-story structure maximizes natural light, thanks to a full south-facing wall adorned with over 10,817 square feet (about twice the area of a basketball court) of reflective low E glass.

The building incorporates energy-efficient walls and materials and electric vehicle charging stations, encouraging sustainable transportation. The hydronic HVAC system provides optimal employee temperature comfort.

“Witnessing HyLife’s unwavering commitment to excellence, we were truly inspired by the meticulous attention given to crafting a cutting-edge, comfortable and professional environment that focused on their teams needs and success,” shared Thiessen.

HyLife’s dedication to employee well-being and collaboration is evident throughout the building. Each employee’s workspace offers a connection to nature, with window views of a retention pond and landscaped area. Additionally, the headquarters boasts collaboration spaces, coffee stations conveniently located on every floor, and a 2,000 square foot fitness centre for employees and their families to use.

To commemorate this momentous occasion, HyLife has released a special time-lapse video that captures the entire construction process on their YouTube channel.

With its modern design, eco-friendly features, and focus on employee well-being, the headquarters sets the stage for a new era of success and innovation for HyLife.

Teacher Publishes Children’s Book

By Angelique Forest

Steinbach resident Donald Dewey released his first children’s book this summer. His book “God’s Love is Bigger Than A Whale; Jonah’s Adventure” is a retelling of the prophet Jonah from the Bible. Dewey is a public school teacher from the Hanover school division and always dreamed about writing a book. Finally, with family motivating him, he decided to go for it.

Dewey began his writing journey in January of 2022.

“Being blessed to have three grandchildren gave me the motivation to get to it because I want these precious little ones in my life to know that I love Jesus and want them to know that He is the one that I live for,” said Dewey. “I want this book to be a keepsake not only for my grandchildren, but for all of my readers.”

He said it is Jonah’s story for children between the ages of 5 to 10.

“This summer, I got to use my book “Jonah: God’s Love is Bigger Than A Whale” at the Gimli Bible Camp, Calvary Church’s Middle School Basketball Camp , and the Kleefeld Honey Festival to share with children the great love and compassion that the Lord has for each of us.” said Dewey.

Dewey’s hope for this book is that children will grow to love the stories in the Bible.

“Jonah has always been one of my favourite characters in the Old Testament,” he said.

He explained that one big reason is that even though Jonah initially disobeyed God, he was given a second chance and did the right thing.

“To me, this shows us that the Lord is gracious, compassionate, and forgiving. Finally, a story like this demonstrates just how much the Lord loves each and everyone of us.” he concluded.

The artist responsible for the animation is Niverville local, Joel Harnett.

You can purchase a book from Don directly by emailing him at thejonahstory@yahoo. com or going to amazon.ca.

With its modern design, eco-friendly features, and focus on employee well-being, the headquarters sets the stage for a new era of success and innovation for HyLife. Submitted photo

(L to R) Artist Joel Harnett and author Don Dewey.

Photo by Joyce Harnett

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

Recycling Incentive Program to Entice Municipal Residents

By Dan Guetre

Over the past year, the RM of Piney has noticed a significant decrease in their recycling tonnage for all three of their waste sites and this has stimulated a lot of discussion within council on how they can increase the amount their communities recycle.

“We have discussed the possible causes and remedies,” said Wayne Anderson, Reeve of the RM of Piney.

The RM of Piney has been in the lead on many initiatives and is not afraid to see the importance and responsibility their corner of the province has in relation to their neighbours.

“We live in a pristine area of the Province, and are the charging source for one of the largest freshwater aquifers,” noted Anderson. “We try to manage our waste responsibly in a cost effective manner.”

Managing waste requires creative solutions and the RM of Piney helped develop some creative processes.

“As an example, we have partnered with Buffalo Point First Nation and the RM of Stuartburn to establish a regional Board that oversees the collection of recyclables to be transported to the Epic/ Smile depot in St. Malo, and the transportation of unsorted household waste to the Steinbach class 1 landfill site,” he points out. “[This] non-profit Board owns a front load compactor truck and employs a full time driver to keep costs to a minimum.”

They believe the time is right to encourage more recycling, especially since all waste needs to be transported

away from their municipality.

“The RM has been promoting recycling for many years now, especially since our waste disposal sites were being converted to transfer stations,” explained Anderson. “Council knew trucking waste to Class 1 landfill sites was going to be expensive.”

Getting residents to decrease waste and recycle more was not only environmentally responsible but also more cost effective for the municipality.

Anderson believes the enthusiasm to recycle faced some hurdles recently.

“It appears the recycling will of the people has waned slightly during Covid and recycling took a hit with stories in the press about recyclers sending the recycling material to landfills,” he added. “I can see why people would not put in the effort to sort out the recyclables when their efforts were of no consequence, according to the press. I only hope these stories were without foundation.”

The Municipality is trying to reinvigorate residents and has a plan to try and create a bit more enthusiasm for residents to recycle by way of an incentive program.

“Starting 2024, the RM will have a monthly draw for everyone who recycles at any of our three waste sites,” said Anderson. “Prizes for each monthly winner will be announced every month in our newsletters with prizes ranging in $150-$250 in value!”

The Recycling Incentive Program is being established to promote more recycling of waste, than throwing these

items away with your daily trash, he noted.

Anderson explained that the logistics of the plan will be worked out over the next few months.

“We are only starting to plan the recycling promotion, and the mechanics of it have not been finalized,” he explained. “You will be hearing more in the near future.”

While the municipality may not see a windfall from increased recycling, Anderson believes it is in line with the pride residents have in their corner of the province and in reality won’t cost anything.

“The RM saves money when ratepayers sort out the recyclables,” he noted. “It costs nearly the same to dispose of recyclables as it does for household waste. The difference is, we get a rebate for some of the cost of recycling from manufacturers who are required by government regulations to pay environmental fees.”

It only makes sense to use some of these savings to promote recycling and give incentives to motivate people to put in the effort of sorting their waste, he added.

Anderson has some words of wisdom for everyone.

“I would like to encourage all your readers to put in the effort of sorting their waste and recyclables,” he concluded. “It is worth the effort in the long run. We should not let the few who abused the system spoil it for the vast majority who have been accomplishing good things.”

Steinbach to Run Pilot Project for Seniors

By Dan Guetre

Steinbach will be one of a few Manitoba communities to pilot a new home and community care program that that aims to create more choice, independence and flexibility for clients with complex care needs to provide appropriate supports so they can remain in their homes instead of being prematurely transitioned to personal care homes.

In the client-determined community care approach, an approved service provider will work in partnership with the client to provide intensive, co-ordinated, and flexible services to enable them to maximize their function and independence. This new service model will provide clients with access to a wide range of health-care professionals and care support services, home support services, and community services to help them stay in their homes.

To be eligible for the pilot, individuals will be from the select communities and

have completed treatment in hospital, but cannot safely return home with existing services or are living in the community and are at risk for premature placement in a personal care home.

Access to this new model of service will require an assessment of participants’ health needs by regional health authority clinicians, who will determine eligibility and level of funding. Clients will be empowered to select care options from a broad basket of services provided by approved agencies. Service providers will work with participants to develop care plans and either provide services directly or co-ordinate the delivery of services by other agencies in collaboration with the client.

The new program will focus on enhancing care in three service areas including: health care professional and care support services may include nursing, therapy, personal care supports and respite care to optimize

Vita Food Bank Hopes to Open this Fall

By Angelique Forest

Vita and area residents are coming together to fundraise for their new local food bank that is aims to open this Fall.

At a recent council meeting in the RM of Stuartburn, council authorized the use of the Fire Hall property to set-up the government-gifted secan and install their own Hydro metre.

Jane Roman, the Chair for the non-profit organization, is thrilled with the approval.

“This means we have permission to use RM property, which is a big deal.” said Roman.

function, provide support to caregivers, and keep people well; home support services may include meal supports, home maintenance including yard work, snow shovelling and housekeeping to keep people safe in their homes; and recreational and other community programming, such as local seniors centres, and transportation to health appointments and community programs to keep people connected to their community.

“We have learned that people want to age in place with dignity, respect and comfort,” said Audrey Harder, executive director, Serving Seniors Inc. in Steinbach. “This initiative creates the potential to provide more options for people with complex needs to be able to stay in community as opposed to transitioning into a care home due to lack of available in-home supports.”

The pilot program is expected to launch in spring 2024.

Finding a suitable location was just one of the many hurdles Roman has had to overcome, as she found starting a non-profit and fundraising can prove difficult.

Navigating each step has meant that the dream of the Vita Food Bank Inc. is becoming a reality.

“We only need one wall redone on the inside, and the secan is ready to be connected. We also have to install a few shelves to hold the food,” said Roman adding that a gravel base for the secan will be laid down soon along with hydro connection. The location also offers privacy to clients of the food bank which is something that many community members had mentioned to be very important.

Roman said that she is grateful for council’s support and all the community fundraising efforts to make the food bank a reality.

She said they should be ready soon to distribute much needed food to locals who need it.

Vita residents used to rely on the Grunthal food bank for their needs. Having their own food bank not only helps the residents, but also other local communities that have been offering support until now.

Loggers Warned and Landowner Fined After Timber Cleared in Sprague Area

In June, conservation officers in Sprague received a complaint of a landowner clearing part of a road allowance south of the community of Piney, near the US border.

An officer investigated and found that the landowner did not have permission from the municipality to cut this allowance and he had not obtained a timber permit from the Forestry Branch as required.

The officer, with the assistance of the Forestry Branch, counted 634 stumps and assessed timber dues on 94 cubic metres of timber. Three loggers from the Sprague area were issued written warnings while a landowner from Sarto was issued $1,200 in timber dues.

Anyone with information on illegal activity is asked to call a local Natural Resources and Northern Development office or the Turn in Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-782-0076.

Modernizations for the 43rd Provincial Election

Voters will see new technology at the polls, reduced lineups and faster results reporting in the next Manitoba provincial election.

“We are introducing new tools for this election, but the process is the same—voters still show ID and mark a paper ballot. Each vote goes into a ballot box and is counted at the close of polls. What we’re changing is the tool, which is more technology to provide better service to our stakeholders,” said Shipra Verma, chief electoral officer, Elections Manitoba. “The integrity of the vote is preserved.”

These tools include:

• Laptops with secure access to the voters list

• Scanners to scan voter information cards and quickly find voters on the voters list

• Printers for printing ballots on demand in place of write-in ballots for advance voting

• Vote counting machines to scan and accurately record ballots and provide results at the close of polls.

During advance voting, voters can vote anywhere in the province. The use of vote-counting machines will make it easier and faster to count this growing proportion of the vote. On election day, voters can vote anywhere in their electoral division. Using technology during voting at either advance voting polls or election day polls streamlines paper-based systems and allows for speedier service.

The addition of vote-counting machines will also speed up the count and results reporting, especially for advance voting.

Once polls close on election day,

vote-counting machines will produce summary results for election day polls showing the number of votes for each candidate, the number of rejected ballots, the number of declined ballots, and the total number of ballots cast. After being verified, the results will be entered into Elections Manitoba’s secure system.

Advance voting memory cards from the vote-counting machines will be retrieved from secure storage and results will be printed and entered into the election night reporting system.

It is expected that 85 per cent of election day voters and approximately 95 per cent of advance voters will cast ballots at a ballot box with a vote-counting machine.

As in previous elections, voting remains safe, secure, and secret, where each vote is anonymous.

golf tournament Raises Almost $50,000 for Recreation campus

By Angelique Forest Memorial Golf Classic was held at Maplewood Golf Course in July with 120 golfers registered.

A golf tournament organized annually to pay tribute to a long-time golfer raised around $50,000 this year with the proceeds going towards the capital campaign to build a recreational campus in the Village of St. Pierre-Jolys.

The 3rd Annual Ray Gagné

According to Jordan Wieler, with the Maplewood Golf Course, the St. Pierre Arena Advisory Committee planned and hosted the successful event.

“From the Golf Course perspective, Ray Gagné was a long time be-

loved member,” noted Maplewood General Manager Alex Edney. “He played in our Men’s League for years and was an absolute pleasure to be around. His wife Anita Gagné still plays in our Ladies League every week.”

Ray passed away in 2021 and the golf tournament was created in his memory.

Road Racing Takes Down Traffic Light

At approximately 10:16 pm on August 24, Steinbach RCMP attended a single motor vehicle accident at the corner of Main Street and Friesen Avenue in Steinbach.

Witnesses stated that a white Ford truck appeared to have been racing with another truck down Main Street and due to the

wet roads, lost control and collided with the traffic light at the intersection. Witnesses stated that the truck started to fishtail, then lost control, completing two 360 turns before hitting the traffic light. The truck then drove away and was later located by police.

There were no injuries to the young male person that was driv-

ing the white truck. The driver was charged for street racing and the truck impounded for 7 days.

Manitoba Hydro was called out due to exposed wires as well as the City of Steinbach.

Steinbach RCMP are again reminding drivers that street racing is illegal and that it has consequences.

Speeding Reckless Driver Crashes on Main Street in Steinbach

On August 26 approximately at 1:50 am, Steinbach RCMP were situated on Main Street adjacent to the fire hall conducting stationary speeding enforcement on both East and westbound lanes. A vehicle was observed exceeding the speed limit traveling westbound. The target vehicle was recorded at a speed of 132 km/h in a designated 50 km/h zone.

During the attempt to stop the vehicle, RCMP observed the driver of the vehicle attempting to evade by executing a U-turn on Main Street and Barkman Avenue in the City of Steinbach.

This manoeuvre, however, resulted in a collision with cemented objects located on the sidewalk, incapacitating the vehicle.

Notwithstanding the vehicle’s compromised condition, the driver persisted in trying to flee the scene, alternately reversing and accelerating forward with evident determination.

Eventually RCMP officers were able to apprehend the driver of the vehicle. A female passenger was also located in the vehicle. EMS attended to provide medical assistance to the female. Her injuries were not life threatening.

Considerable damage was incurred to the vehicle rendering inoperable.

The 24 year-old male from Winnipeg is facing the following charges: Dangerous Operation of a motor Vehicle, Dangerous Operation of Motor Vehicle Causing Bodily Harm, Operation while Impaired (alcohol) of motor vehicle, Operation while over 80 mg%(alcohol) of Motor Vehicle, Resist/Obstruct peace officer and Mischief under $5000.00 – Damage to Property, Speeding, Drive Motor vehicle without wearing Seatbelt, Fail to Stop, Fail to Produce Driver’s licence.

Income Tested Benefits for Seniors

There are many benefits mostly related to seniors that are income tested. The higher your income the less benefit you receive. There are three main ones: Guaranteed Income Supplement, Pharmacare, and Personal Care Home fees.

Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)

This benefit is part of the Old Age Security (OAS) program and provides additional monthly income to low-income seniors.

The most common supplement is for those 65 and older. Generally, individuals who earn less than $21,000 (excluding the actual monthly OAS) will qualify for some payment. Couples need to earn less than $28,000.

There is also a similar benefit for widows and widowers who are 60-65 who have low income, approximately less than $28,500.

And a third program is for couples when one is over 65 and the other is under 65. The income level for this group is about $39,000.

You only need to apply for the Guaranteed Income Supplement once.

Each July, the GIS is recalculated based on the previous year’s net income. Most seniors received a letter in July 2023 advising the new amount that would be paid at the end of July for the next 12 months. The amount stated on the letter is the combination of the basic OAS and the GIS.

Generally, as your income increases, the benefits decrease. But there is an exception to employment income. You can earn up to $5,000 per year with no impact on your GIS payment. And income $5,000 to $15,000 there is some reduction. Once employment (or self-employment) income is over $15,000 it fully impacts the GIS monthly payment.

If you have some savings and earning interest, you would be better off moving some or all of the savings to

Tax Free Savings Accounts so your GIS is not affected.

There are times when you can request a reconsideration of the GIS payment. One common one is when a surviving spouse receives the $2,500 CPP death benefit on the death of their spouse. We can request the $2,500 income be removed from the calculation. We help many clients with this request each year.

And if your income has dropped because you stopped working or your pension income stopped or decreased, you can also request an adjustment to the GIS.

Pharmacare

The Manitoba Pharmacare program is another government benefit that is based on net income. Once you reach your calculated deductible, then future prescription costs will be covered by Manitoba Health for most prescriptions.

Once you have applied for Pharmacare (and you only need to apply once), each April you will receive a letter advising you of your new deductible. It is based your individual or family income two years earlier. The Pharmacare year April 2023 to March 2024 is based on your family’s net income from 2021.

If your income has dropped between 2021 to 2023 by more than 10%, you can request the deductible be reduced and based on your lower net family income.

This is also a form we help many clients every year. Often we identify them as we are filing their taxes and notice a drop in their income, and others approach us for help.

Personal Care Home Fees

The Manitoba personal care home fees are also income tested and based on your family income. As your income increases or decreases, so does the personal care home fees.

The fees are recalculated each Au-

gust based on the individual or family income from the previous calendar year.

Generally, an individual does get to keep about $380 per month for other personal costs like clothing, hair care, foot care, and dental. Most prescriptions are included in the cost you pay for the personal care home services.

Adjustments can be requested if family income has decreased substantially from one year to the next.

For example, say you incurred a large capital gain in 2022 and now your personal care home fees have increased. You can request a reduction.

If one spouse is living in a personal care home and one spouse is still living independently, there are calculations made to ensure the spouse living in the community lives comfortably. But if the family income is low, the spouse living in their own home, may not be able to continue to live there and may need to find new accommodations like subsidized housing.

If you or your family find yourself in a situation where your income has reduced substantially and you need help with any of the above income tested government benefits, please contact our office.

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 204422-6631 (phone or text!) or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Co-op) or info@sataxes.ca.

Reynolds issues Warning of Break-ins and theft Near Hadashville

By Dan Guetre

The RM of Reynolds posted a notice in mid-August informing residents that there were multiple property break-ins and theft near Hadashville.

“We had a couple come into the office a few weeks ago who told us they were broken into again (they were broken into last October as well) and fuel was stolen from their property,”

said Sherri Pearch, ACAO with the municipality, “and they were just letting us know, and they had contacted the RCMP.”

Pearch added that others in the area were running into issues with people on their property and locks were cut on sheds. These people were caught on game cameras that are installed on the property. She is also aware of a quad and fuel stolen at another lo-

cal residence.

The municipality is suggesting that residents set up trail cameras to help monitor their properties and to contact RCMP if you notice anything suspicious.

With theft activity noted recently, Pearch felt a courtesy notice to residents could be helpful and remind everyone to take precautions and lock things up.

September 2023

Dominion City

Kids Soccer – Every Tuesday and Thursday from September 8 to October 5 from 6 – 7 pm at Roseau Valley School for preschool to grade 8. Cost preschool $10. Ages over preschool $30 each. Contact email kath@emersonfranklin.com.

Falcon Beach

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

Friedensfeld

Fall Dinner – Saturday, October 22, 11:30 am – 2 pm at the Community centre. Cost $25. Children 6 – 12, $15, under 5 is free. Menu chicken, meatballs with gravy, mashed potatoes, perogies, cabbage rolls, veggies, salads, coleslaw, dinner roles and homemade pie. Contact Maria Krentz 204371-7220, friedensfeldcc@gmail.com.

Gardenton

Fall Supper – Sunday, September 17, 3 - 6 pm at the Gardenton Park hosted by Ukrainian Museum and Village Society Inc. Cost $17.50. Menu pork cutlets, sweet & sour meatballs, perogies, cabbage rolls, nalysnyky, mashed potatoes/gravy, veggies, salads, coleslaw, dinner roles and homemade pie. Contact Kelvin 204-425-8197.

Grunthal

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

Ile des Chenes

Wildlife Haven Annual Open House - Join us Friday and Saturday, September 15 and 16 for an exclusive look behind the scenes at their Wildlife Veterinary Hospital and so much more! Tickets are only $10 per person (Children 2 years of age and under are free)! The Wildlife Haven Campus is at 1028 Arnould Rd. Go to wildlifehaven.ca/pages/open-house to reserve your tickets. Please note your arrival/tour time is to be pre-selected at the time of purchase.

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

La Broquerie

The Back to School Bash Tour - Saturday, September 30. Summer is coming to a close and school is back in session but the party isn’t over just yet. The Canadian Wrestling’s Elite Presents a back to school tour Join us live and see Canadian Wrestling Tag Team Legends Team Impact (Robby Royce & Anderson Tyson Moore), “Red Hot” Sammy Peppers, “Sweet” Bobby Schink, Ronnie Attitude, A Special Appearance by 7x CWE Champion “Hotshot” Danny Duggan, and many more of your favourite CWE stars in action! Be there in attendance, invite your friends in the area, and share to your social media networks and encourage them to do the same. Let’s end the summer with a bang!

Visit facebook.com/events/2075596699499348.

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

Farmers’ Market –Until September 26. Weekly market Tuesdays 3 -7 pm and monthly market, last Sunday, 11 am -3 pm. We invite vendors to apply through our online form available at facebook.com/labroqueriefarmersmarket. Deadline for submission is Saturday, April 15, or until spots are filled. Location is the La Broquerie Hotel parking lot.

Lorette

Lorette Métis Local - Citizenship Drive - Saturday, September 16, 10 am – 3 pm at the Curling Club. New Applications and Renewals welcome. CTF stickers will be available. For more information visit our website lorettemetislocal.wixsite. com/lorette.

Lorette Métis Local Meeting – Monday, September 18, 7 pm. Club Bles D’or - 1254 Dawson Rd, Lorette. Please RSVP to lorettemetislocal@gmail.com.

Bibliothèque Taché Library – Story Time & Craft (EN) on Saturday, September 9 at 12 noon, Lego Night on Thursday, September 14 from 5 pm - 7:30 pm, Story Time & Craft (FR)

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

C ommunity E v E nts

on Saturday, September 16 at 12 noon, Book Club on Thursday, September 21 from 7 pm - 8:15 pm: Reading “The Four Winds” by Kristin Hannah, and for the kids… DIY Slime on Wednesday, September 27 from 6 pm - 7:30 pm. Their Colouring Draw entries are due Thursday, September 28.

Starting Tuesday, September 5, regular hours take effect: Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays from 4:30 pm - 8:30 pm and Saturdays from 10 am – 2 pm.

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

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

Marchand

Manitoba Mud Mafia Fall Ride – Saturday, September 9 at the Park. Registration opens from 9 – 11 am. Ride starts at 11:30 am. Rider and machine fee $25, passenger $15, includes lunch at half-way point. Head and Tails game and 50/50, bonfire to follow.

Mitchell Fall Community Garage Sale Day – Check it out all day on Saturday, September 16 all day. Contact Sheri Reimer 431205-1039, blue_roses77@hotmail.com.

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

Niverville Recreation Fall Program - Registration is now open! Visit nivervillerec.ca to view the Fall Leisure Guide with a full list of programs and events planned for the upcoming season. This year, the Community Resource & Recreation Centre (CRRC) will be hosting a free “Come Try It” event from Monday, September 11 to Thursday September 14.

The fall garage sale will be taking place September 15 & 16. To register your address for this community-wide event, call 204-388-4600 ext. 3 or send an email to recreation@ whereyoubelong.ca. The deadline to register is September 13th.

Town Clean-Up Day will be taking place this year on Sept. 23. On this day, residents have the opportunity to get rid of extra waste and recycling, yard compost and tree branches, along with the opportunity to shred old documents for free. Here’s a quick look at what will be open and hours for drop-off:

- Waste & Recycling: Bristal Hauling (405 Kuzenko St.), open 8 am to 8 pm.

- Yard Waste for Compost (grass clippings & leaves): Town Compost site (736 Schultz Ave.), open 8 am to 8 pm.

- Tree Branches for Compost: Town Compost site (736 Schultz Ave.), wood chipping available from 8 am to 5 pm.

- Free Document Shredding: Niverville Credit Union parking lot (62 Main St.), 9 am to 1 pm.

Pansy

Annual Fall Supper - Sunday September 10, from 3 - 6 pm at the Community Hall with a Ukrainian Smorgasbord! Tickets $22 per person (Ages 7-12 are $10 and 6 and under are free). Come Hungry and bring your friends! First Come, First Served! Hope to see you there and thank you for supporting us! For any large group booking email germainleanne@ gmail.com.

Piney Annual Fall ATV Derby - Saturday, September 23. Registration from 10 am – 3 pm at the Community Hall. Prize money is 20%, 15%, 10%, 5% of total hands less insurance fee. All hands $5 each. Food/refreshments and Quick Pick at the hall and food available on the trail. Contact Wally 431-2051248, Terry 204-795-8591 or text Nancy 204-408-0874.

Richer Dinner & Dance -Saturday, September 9 at the Young At Hearts. Music is by Gemstars. Dinner at 6 pm and dancing until 11 am. Tickets $25 each. Call Ron at 431-275-0874 for Tickets.

Richer Métis Local general meeting - Wednesday, September 13, 5:30 pm at the Young At Hearts. Contact richermetis@ gmail.com.

The annual Dawson Trail Art Tour is scheduled September 16 & 17th. Go to dawsontrailtreasures.ca for more information.

Richer Recovery AA Group - Meets every Monday from 7:308:30 pm at LUD Hall. If you would like more information, call Jeff at 204-371-5518 or Albert at 204-380-3058.

RM of Stuartburn

Services to Seniors - Free Shuttle for residents of the RM the first Friday of each month. Call to book a ride and do your banking and shopping locally or book your doctor’s appointment and we will get you to your appointment. Call 204425-3701.

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

Sarto

Willow Plain School Museum - Open from Thursday to Monday all summer from 10 am – 4 pm. New material to see having to do with the history of Sarto families and the latest edition of the 533-page Sarto Pioneers History/Genealogy ($30 cash only) is now available. Hope you and your family/friends will visit there very soon. Plan to spend a couple of hours perusing the historic memorabilia to make the visit even more memorable!

Sirko

Perogy Supper – Saturday, October 14, 4 – 6 pm at the Community Hall located 6 miles south of Sundown on Sirko Rd, 1 mile east Rd 1N, in support of Susydka Dance Club sponsored by the Sirko Women’s Association. Cost Adult $12, children 6 – 12 $6, 5 and under free. Take out available.

South Junction

Piney Regional Chamber of Commerce Monthly MeetingSeptember 14 at 6 pm hosted at Provost Perennials 75099 Rd 2N.

Fall Fundraiser – Saturday, September 30, 10:30 am – 1 pm at the Pine Grove Seniors Club. Lunch starts at 11:30 am, soup, sandwiches and desert, bake sale, 50/50 draw, rainbow auctions, raffles.

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

Sprague

Volunteer Firefighter Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser- Saturday, September 16, 8 – 11 am at the Evergreen Senior Centre. Gluten free option available. Free will donation, door prize, 50/50 draw. 50% of proceeds go to Jonah’s parents Niki & Peter Kraus.

RM of Piney Service to Seniors - Hosting their Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, September 19 at 1 pm in the Evergreen Senior Building followed by the Monthly Board Meeting. For more information call Barb at 204-423-2089.

Kids Club – Begins Wednesday, October 4, 7 – 9 pm at the Community Fellowship Church. For all children ages 5 and up.

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

St. Adolphe

Outdoor Music Event – Friday, September 8, 10:30 am1:30 pm at Ritchot Senior Services office, 457 Main Street. The Ritchot Senior Services and Le Comité Culturel de SaintAdolphe are partnering to bring you the 4th annual outdoor bilingual music, food and friends’ day. Live music provided by Country Friends. Admission $10 and includes lunch and 1 ticket for a chance to win a door prize. Also a 50/50 draw and silent auction. Contact Janice at 204-883-2880 (leave call back number) or ritchotseniors@mymts.net. Feel free to bring your own lawn chair to enjoy the show.

Curling Club Registration Night and AGM - Thursday, September 14, 7 pm at the Curling Club followed by the AGM at 7:30 pm. Information about our Leagues can be found on our website, curlstadolphe.com.

Bench Inauguration and Plaque Unveiling CeremonyWednesday, September 20, 11 am north of the church. The historic site pays tribute to the Sisters of the Cross. Their convent opened its doors in 1906 welcomed students and boarders from far and wide for many years and was later used as the Nursing Home. Ceremony will be followed by cake and coffee. All are welcome.

Community Car & Bike Show – Sunday, September 24, 10 am – 5 pm at the River Park. Entrance is free, includes bouncy castles, face painting, live music, raffle draw, and over 70 vendors. Vehicle registration 10 am – noon, fee $10.

St. Malo Farmers’ Market – Every Saturday until September 2 at the Arena. Doors open 9:30 am for vendor set up. Doors open to public at 10 am to 1:30 pm. Please feel free to contact us for more information at stmalojrwarriors@gmail.

St. Pierre-Jolys Charity Car Show – Saturday, September 9, 10 am – 4 pm at 29019 PTH 59. Entry by donation. Registration opens at 8 am. Spectator gate opens at 10 am. Trophies and prizes, silent auction, 50/50, food and beverage and demos.

ROC Eastman Charity Golf Tournament – Thursday, September 14, 12 pm at the Maplewood Golf Course. Texas scramble, putting contest, 50/50, longest drive, closest to the pin. $100/person includes green fees, cart, burger/fries/drink ticket.

3234 Manitoba Horse Cadets – Registration Night – September 7, 7:30 pm. Please bring birth certificate and MB Health card. Join us for fun and adventure every Thursday, September to June, 6:30 – 9 pm at the Community Hall. For ages 12 – 18. Cost is Free. Meet new friends, fun, adventures, leadership, citizenship, community service, drill band, orienteering, and more. Contact Captain Phil Atkinson, phillip.atkinson@ cadets.gc.ca. Website 3234manitobahorse.ca.

Ste. Anne Golf Tournament Texas Scramble – Thursday, September 21, at Oakwood Golf Course, 1 pm tee-off, dinner to follow. Cost one player $75 or foursome $300. Contact 204-381-1184 or SteGsGeneralStore@gmail.com.

Wellness Conference and Expo for Seniors – October 17, 10 am – 3:30 pm at Club Jovial, 157 Central Avenue. Meet and chat with Senior Friendly organizations and businesses dedicated to the well-being of our 55+ community and their families: falls protection, mobility and accessibility, hearing care, home care specialists, decluttering & moving pros, Home Meal Program, Senior Resource Finders, and much more. Gift for every participant! Resources available in French and English. Snacks, lunch and beverages provided. Free admission: bring a non-perishable food item for the Accueil Kateri Food Bank. All are welcome. For more information, contact Melanie Bremaud

Senior Resource Coordinator Seine River Services for Seniors Inc. 204-424-5285, labseinerss@gmail.com

Ste. Genevieve Library Night – Every second Wednesday, on September 6 and September 20 from 6 – 7: 30 pm. A mini-library at the Community Centre. Come check out some books, exchange and request items from the library.

Steinbach

Stone City Fall Bash - Saturday, September 9 at the AD Penner Park. Free event. 4 - 6 pm - kids’ carnival and bouncy castles, 4 – 9 pm food vendors, 5:30 pm prize raffle, live music starts at 6 pm with The Academy, Matt Epp, and Crossfire.

Kids Pickleball - Starting Monday, September 11 from 4 -6 pm, bring your children and grandchildren to Pat Porter Active Living Centre for the opportunity to learn how to play Pickleball! Cost $1. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Max of 12 people per session. Sign up online, please. Please visit our website for information on how to register patporteralc.com. Contact Carla Walker 204-320-4600, programs@patporteralc.com.

Steinbach Sizzlers 4-H Club Information Night - Monday, September 18, 6:30 pm, at the Steinbach United Church, CE Building, 541 Main St. Come learn more about the 4-H Program and what it all has to offer youth from ages 9 and up. Meet leaders and ask members about their 4-H experiences as well as projects. We look forward to meeting you! Contact Tatiana Tuttosi loonlover06@gmail.com.

Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Group - Starts Thursday, September 21, 1 pm. Registration required. Contact Maggie@ steinbachfrc.ca, 204-346-0413.

Steinbach & District Farmers Market - Every Thursday, 3- 6 pm until September 28. Contact 204-326-6222, dorothy@ cdtrees.com.

ROC Eastman Charity Book Fair Fundraiser - Friday, September 29, from 4 – 8 pm, Saturday, September 30, 10 am to -5 pm and Sunday, October 1 from 1 – 5 pm at the new location ROC Eastman Book Warehouse, 9-110 Industrial Rd. For more information, please contact us at steph@roceastman.ca.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vita Fall & Craft Bake Sale – Saturday, September 16, 10 am – 3 pm at the Community Hall. 30 vendor tables, hot lunch, canteen and 50/50 draw.

Woodridge

Fall Supper – Saturday, September 16, 4 - 6 pm at the Community Centre, 69 Denis St. Before Monday, September 11 tickets must be purchased in advance from WCC board member, Vintage Corner Store, or Woodridge Garage. Contact 204429-2344. Menu fried chicken, meatballs, perogies, garlic sausage, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes/, side dishes, desert buffet. Adults-Teens $25, youth 6-12 years $15 and children 5 and under free.

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

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch September 2023

Niverville Creates Reduced-Speed School Zone Beside Middle School

Drivers are cautioned to slow down by the Middle School in Niverville following a bylaw passed in August for a reduced speed school zone at the Niverville Middle School to help ensure the safety of students.

the east side of the Niverville Middle School, 161 5th Avenue South. It extends along 5th Avenue South (PR 622) from the northeast corner of the Middle School lot line to 150 meters south of the Middle School’s southeast lot line.

While the new signs are not expected to be installed until midSeptember by the Province, the Bylaw is in effect from September to June between the hours of 7 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday.

Species at Risk Spotlight: golden-winged Warbler

By Norm Gregoire

As summer nears its end on the tall-grass prairie, we begin to slowly notice changes in the surrounding environment. The weather cools and the colours in our trees and grasses begin to change shades, and if you pay attention to the sky, there is a noticeable increase in bird movement. In our area, the most noticeable flying migrants may be the Canada geese or sandhill cranes, but there are dozens of smaller species flying south every day.

The golden-winged warbler is one of these many migrants that may be hard to spot, but if you are lucky enough to see this showy songbird, it could be a highlight of your autumn birding season!

There are many species of warblers in Manitoba, so correctly identifying them can take some practice. Compared to other Manitoban warblers, the golden-winged has gold wing patches and a golden crown, the latter of which is most distinguishable in males. Both sexes are grey in colour and have long tails, slender bodies, and pointed bills. Males have a distinct black bib on their throat and a black eye patch, while the throat and eye patch of females appear lighter in colour.

The process of identifying the golden-winged warbler can be further confused as they do interbreed with another species, the closely named blue-winged warbler, and give birth to hybridized offspring. These offspring, named Lawrence’s warbler and Brewster’s warbler, were thought to be completely separate species until relatively recently. This interbreeding of the golden-winged and blue-winged is a major reason why, over the last few decades, the golden-winged warbler’s Canadian population has decreased by approximately eighty percent!

The blue-winged warbler’s historic breeding range is more southerly compared to the golden-winged; however, over the years, they have slowly made their way north. It was thought that the Manitoban population of golden-winged warblers was the most genetically pure in the world; however, recent studies show hybridization is more frequent than previously believed.

Back to School – Bus Safety

When a vehicle – like a school bus – makes contact with power lines, electricity from the lines wants to find the easiest way to the ground. The bus provides a passage for electricity to the ground.

If your school bus contacts a power line, take these steps:

- Use the bus’ radio to call for assistance or yell to someone already outside the bus for help.

- If the bus is still working and it is safe to do so, back the bus slowly away from the lines.

- If you can’t back away, keep everyone on the bus. Passengers could be exposed to electrocution if they try to leave the bus.

- Keep others at least 15 metres (or 50 feet) away from the accident site, as the ground around the vehicle will be energized.

- Never touch a wire.

If your school bus comes into contact with a power line and it causes a fire, follow these steps:

- Evacuate the bus – safely. To do this, students should hop clear of the bus one at a time with arms tightly at their sides. They must jump clear without touching the bus and the ground at the same time. They must land with their feet together and shuffle a safe distance away from the bus.

- Keep the students together in a

group and do not allow them to reenter the accident site.

- Call Manitoba Hydro for assistance. When a vehicle comes into contact with power lines, electricity fans out from the vehicle like a pebble dropped into a pond. The most powerful current will be at the centre, and the voltage will decrease the further you get from the centre. You do not want parts of your body contacting two things of different voltages, as you will become the route electricity travels from higher voltage to lower voltage to ground. For more information about safety around power lines, contact Manitoba Hydro at hydro.mb.ca.

Ritchot Senior Services Events

Group Events:

Outdoor Bilingual Music Event – Friday, September 8 from 10:30 am - 1:30 pm at Ritchot Senior Services office, 457 Main St, St. Adolphe. Entertainment provided by Country

Friends a trio of musicians and singers from Saint-Malo – Lyse Gosselin, Martial Lafantaisie and Lucille Roy who have been performing in southern Manitoba for many years, providing a repertoire of popular, country and traditional songs. Admission $10, includes entertainment, lunch and a ticket for a chance to win a door prize. There will also be a 50-50 available and a silent auction. You must pre register to attend.

Special Event Unveiling - of a memory bench at the site of the Old Convent, beside the St. Adolphe Parish on Wednesday, September 20 at 11 am. Refreshments will be served after at the Municipal Hall following the ceremony. Please RSVP Rhea 204-795-3561 or Alice 204-232-6156 before September 13.

Bingo – Wednesday, September 27 from 1:30 – 3 pm. Play for fun prizes. $2 admission includes 2 cards, additional

cards available for 50 cents each. You must pre register for this event.

Old Time Dance – Saturday, September 23, 7 – 11 pm at the Pioneer Hall, 345 St. Adolphe Rd. Entertainment provided by Mark Morisseau. Door prizes, 50-50 and cash bar. Lunch is provided. Please reserve your ticket in advance by calling Jules 204-883-2440.

Coffee with Friends – Thursdays in September 21 and 28 at 10 - 11:30 am. Do you have a cool item or photo that you would like to share? Bring it along with you. Open to everyone. $2 for bottomless coffee and muffin or pastry. Ritchot Senior Services, 457 Main Street, St. Adolphe.

Foot Care Clinics:

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

Upcoming clinic dates: Ste Agathe – Wednesday, September 13 and Thursday, September 14.

St. Adolphe – Monday, September 18, Tuesday September 19 and Wednesday, September 20. Ile des Chenes – Tuesday, October 17 and Wednesday, Oc tober 18.

Heart to Home Meals

To place your order please call 1-204-816-8659 or 1-888216-1067. Call for a menu or pick one up at Ritchot Senior Services. Call or email Ritchot Senior Services after placing your orders to let us know you have placed an order. This will assist us in organizing volunteers for delivery of meals to you. Meals ready for pick up or delivery the following day. This service is available to all areas of the Ritchot Community including St. Adolphe, Ste Agathe, Ile des Chenes, Grande Pointe, Howden and Glenlea. There are no contracts, no minimum orders.

Save the Date:

Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash - Friday November 3, in St. Adolphe hosted by Ritchot Senior Services. Stay tuned for more details.

Habitat loss and prey insect decline also play a role in the decline of the golden-winged warbler population. Important to note is that where brown-headed cowbirds are present, they may parasitize up to one-third of the local golden-winged warbler nests. The female brown-headed cowbird will observe nests in the area and will sneak in and lay an egg when the occupants are away. They lay a single egg in dozens of nests throughout the summer and are not picky when it comes to what species of bird will play host to their young. The brown-headed cowbird egg hatches quickly, and the chick grows rapidly and will outcompete the other chicks for food that is brought to the nest by the parents. This is a clever strategy for the brown-headed cowbird, with unfortunate outcomes for the host species, including the golden-winged warbler.

The golden-winged warbler tends to nest near or on the ground in openings on the edge of forests. This transitional zone is usually in the first stages of regeneration. As woody encroachment slowly takes over on the tall-grass prairie, we have seen an increase in goldenwinged warblers. In well-concealed nests, generally three to six eggs are laid and only take a week and a half to hatch. After the nesting period, the family will move into more mature forests.

The increased sightings of golden-winged warblers in the tall-grass prairie in recent years are exciting, but they are also an indicator of increased shrub encroachment and maturing forests. As the landscape changes, our species at risk must adapt and take advantage of new opportunities. For further information, please contact me at info@ sharedlegacymb.ca.

Golden-winged Warbler

Photo by Christian Artuso

The school zone will be located on the east side of the Niverville Middle School, 161 5th Avenue South. It extends along 5th Avenue South (PR 622) from the northeast corner of the Middle School lot line to 150 meters south of the Middle School’s southeast lot line.

Have you ever been called on to be a witness? I was summoned to appear in court one time as a professional witness. As a veterinarian, I had been called to a home in the countryside where a large dog had been shot by a farmer because it was harassing his animals.

A witness is someone who was at the scene who saw some things that he is asked to report on. He relates to others what he knows and has seen. The testimony of a witness holds great weight, as long as his credibility can be established.

When it comes to the Bible, some people think it is just the witness of men, but 1 John 5:9 tells us it is the witness of God. If the Bible is not God’s Word, then we have no basis for our faith. 1 Timothy 3:16 says, “All scripture (Bible) is given by inspiration of God.” No other Person was a witness to what happened at the beginning of time, only God. Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning, God.”

As a credible Witness to all things, God has given us only one Book, the Bible. It is the only infallible Book on earth. It tells us how man has fallen into sin and out of fellowship with God, but it also tells us the only way that relationship can be restored. In John 14:6 Jesus Christ, God’s Son, said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

The Bible is a credible witness of God, so any human being can claim the promises of this Book by faith and have the confidence that what is says is true. 1 John 5:13 says the Bible is written “that ye may know that ye have eternal life.”

Dear friend, do you know that today? If not, why not trust the written account from the most credible witness of the universe (God)?

Arts4tots Preschool Registration Now open!

Have you been looking for a fun and educational preschool for your toddler? Our Arts4Tots preschool registration is open for the 2023-2024 year! This is a great way to prepare your toddlers for kindergarten and get them excited about the arts. Introduce your children to science, math, reading, and fine motor skills. Immerse them in music, theatre, arts, games.

Our afternoon classes for Arts4Tots still have a couple of spots left, call us now or sign-up online to reserve your spot.

Visit our website steinbacharts.ca for more information and to register!

BoSS dance Academy classes at SAc

Come join, have fun, and learn the fundamentals of Ballet and hip hop for ages 3-5 and 6-9. Movement exercises, understanding rhythm and music and encouraging their passion. Visit steinbacharts.ca to register!

volunteer at SAc!

Trust in the Eternal Witness Eastward Bound

We are looking for people who are like-minded and love the arts as much as we do. As a non-profit organization, we would not have been able to thrive without volunteers who share their time, talent, and service. The Steinbach Arts Council would love to have you be part of our team.

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

As many of you know, time moves on. Kids grow into adults and the dynamic of a household will change. Time moves on whether we want it to or not. Our thoughts were loosely based on this thinking as we made plans to go on a family trip this year. Not just any trip but a BIG trip. We were not going to the lake this year, not even to go on a little road trip but we decided that it was time for a big, all-in trip and for that we chose to go to the Maritimes. Neither my wife, my children, nor I had ever been there. It was time to go.

After a lot of talking, researching and planning, hats off to my wife for taking care of most of the planning, we found ourselves at the airport. After having zipped through customs, waiting for our flight to be announced and boarding the plane, we found ourselves being whisked into the sky by a force so powerful that I could only hold on and hope that the pilots knew what they were doing. Since I was not behind the controls, this takeoff made me feel very unsure. Of course, as we reached our altitude and levelled off, everything was good. This was the first time that my children and I have been in a jet and it was quite the new experience for me. I did find that my thoughts would jump around from “I don’t like this” to “this is so cool.” The sight of the ground being so far below us that we often were looking down on the clouds was quite a cool thing to see, if not a bit boring as the clouds didn’t seem to changed much as we flew over them.

After several hours and a bumpy landing, we had touched down in Halifax, Nova Scotia and found ourselves exiting the airport and renting a nearly new car for the duration of our stay. It was not long before our luggage had been loaded into the back of the car and we found ourselves cruising down the highway. It was quite interesting to see that much of the soil is red in colour and the pavement too has a reddish tinge to it. The rolling countryside was also a treat to see as we followed the large-screen GPS that guided us on our way through these unfamiliar lands.

Heading north, we crossed over from Nova Scotia and into the province of New Brunswick. Passing through Moncton we arced back south and drove on unto we eventually settled into our hotel room in Hope Well, NB.

An exciting first day of travelling and new scenery to begin our Maritime journey.

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

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Regenerative Agriculture is Possible for Everyone

By Dorthea Gregoire

Over the last few years, terms like regenerative agriculture (aka regen ag), cover crops, soil health, carbon sequestration and soil biology/microbes have been popping up more and more in agricultural circles and have become the topic of discussion for many of us. This sudden surge in interest has been further fueled by federal, provincial, and corporate funding designed to get farmers on board with a series of practices aimed at improving the health of (i.e., the life within) our soils.

But what is regenerative agriculture and how does it relate to all of the other terms we hear thrown around alongside it? I’ve yet to come across a truly satisfactory and succinct definition of regenerative agriculture but, to be honest, I don’t need one. For me, regen ag is an approach to agricultural management that focuses on the soil as a living (eco)system that can be used to address our most pressing on-farm issues. This includes water management, drought and flood resilience, soil compaction, crop quality, erosion, the use of synthetic inputs (pesticides and fertilizers) as well as the economic/ financial viability of the farm, itself, and so much more.

One of the most empowering aspects of regenerative agriculture is that in order to start out you do not need to purchase specific equipment or expensive soil amendments, and you don’t need to follow any one “expert’s” prescriptive plan to be

simply making smart plant choices.

When you think about plants (including crops, garden plantings, native areas etc.) in a regenerative system you must think of them as tools that you can use to address a need. Gone are the days when a farmer has the luxury of thinking of their crop as a simple commodity to be grown and sold. Each plant that is put in the ground (by you or by Mother Nature) has something to offer to the farmer and the farmer must seek to understand that plant’s potential and use it to their advantage.

For example, the large-rooted radish (e.g., daikon) can break through compaction, the fibrous roots of grasses can spread and build carbon and soil organic matter, the overwintering lifecycle of fall rye and perennial plantings can offer protection to the soil from erosion. Similarly, the thistle patch may be telling you that you have a compaction issue, the flush of spring weeds that you have excess nitrates and the horsetails that your soil is wet for too long. Once we begin to take note of what’s going on around us and start to view plants as our tools and allies the opportunities become endless.

To get started, straightforward changes to a crop rotation, such as including a legume in rotation, can work to restore nitrogen reserves and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizer. The inclusion of perennial hay (e.g., alfalfa) in rotations can drastically reduce unwanted weeds such as Canada thistle. Even more powerful results can be seen when multiple species of plants are used together in intentional combinations such as cover crops (grown in lieu of cash crops), intercrops (grown alongside cash crops) and relay crops (seeded into cash crops to do most of their growing after the cash crop is harvested). If you have livestock, switching to a rotational grazing system instead of continuous grazing or grazing cropped areas can bolster the soil building process. Each of these actions can address possible issues while simultaneously building up the health of the soil by feeding soil biology (helpful microscopic fungi, bacteria, and others) and creating resilience within the soil.

For many, the transition to regenerative agriculture has come from a very personal realization that they can no longer afford to farm in the “same old way”. Not only is the cost of inputs skyrocketing but the need for more on every acre increases

year over year. Productivity today is not what it was 50 years ago. Even in organic systems where the cost of inputs is mostly avoided, there is recognition that overworking of soil is leading to an increasing number of problems that need new and creative answers.

If you have thought about the longevity of your farm and see a need for change but are unsure of where to start, you are not alone. This year in southeastern Manitoba several dozen farmers - from small mixed farms to large grain operations - are on their journey into regenerative agriculture. Some of these farmers are just starting out, adding a small area of cover crop or making a small change to their rotations, while others have decades of experience under their belts – making big changes and seeing big results.

The regenerative journey never ends, offering us each the opportunity to outdo ourselves over and over. Most importantly, with each farm that joins the regen ag community comes new experiences, allowing us all to move forward together, learning from one another’s mistakes and building upon our combined successes.

For those interested in meeting like-minded people I strongly recommend attending a local field day, reaching out to a community innovator, or checking out MFGA’s Regen Ag Conference in the fall. You can also visit websites including those hosted by Regeneration Canada and Understanding Ag for more information or sign up for a free course like those offered through the Farm Resilience Mentorship (FaRM) Program. When it comes to regenerative agriculture, the most important thing you can do is to take the first step. Reach out to a colleague, investigate a new practice, or read up on a new method.

Next month I’ll be following up with a second article exploring the principles of regen ag and how you can get started. But for now, I’d like to leave you with one final thought. If you’re a farmer and you were to walk away from your farm today, would you be leaving your land and your soils in a better state than you inherited them in? If not, why not? If you’re not a farmer, consider the role you can play in addressing communal off-farm soil-based issues, such as in-town flooding, nutrient runoff from lawns and urban heat bubbles by improving the way you manage your soil. We all have a role to play in rebuilding our soils and putting them to work for us, and that’s why regen ag truly is for everyone.

Dorthea Gregoire is with the Canadian Organic Growers.

Brought

What Can I Say?

Psalms 145:1-7… 1) I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. 2) Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever. 3) Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise: his greatness no one can fathom. 4) One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. 5) They speak of the glorious splendour of your majesty - and I will meditate on your wonderful works.

6) They tell of the power of your awesome works - and I will proclaim your great deeds. 7) They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness. (NIV) I will exalt. I will praise. I will commend. I will tell. I will meditate. I will proclaim, and I will celebrate. What a way to start the day – what can I say?

The Psalmist (David) highly energized is trying extremely hard to make a point and I do not think he is happy with just a silent acknowledgment that God is great. I suspect that he wants us to shout it out, even going as far as declaring it openly. Proclaiming it with good old fashioned wholesome singing. The Holy Spirit moved the psalmist when he calls all creation to praise the mighty works of God.

Our Scripture verses speak to us this way. If something important happens and we see it take place, we shall remember that event. If we hear a sermon, the thing that we remember afterward is the point that most forcibly strikes us while we are listening to the sermon. Whether we use a pencil or not memory obeys our wish and records it in our memory bank. That moment in time will return to us unexpectedly. It comes and sits there to remind us of that event, whether good or bad.

Sometimes we are so busy we fail to see the needs of other people. We rush about from place to place working hard to complete our mission. We feel like we are always failing because we do not have enough time to complete whatever it is we are trying to accomplish. When I feel this way, I must be careful not to see people as though they are frustrating or getting in my way. But the truth is that God loves each person we rub shoulders with, even those I might think are not that important.

How God interacts with us is very much the same. If I want to remember how great God is, I must allow Him to make an impression on me. That means I must notice it, I will have to consider it, and at my age, I will have to sit back and meditate on it and allow that impression to influence my heart. And when I do that, I shall remember. But it means that I shall always be ready to observe His righteousness.

One never comes through life untouched by the bumps and bruises. Somehow, we need those bumps and bruises to learn to praise God. I could wish my whole life to be calm and carefree, free of all troubles. I could desire that nothing might ever again disturb my restful spirit. But were it to be so, I suspect I would seldom experience the merciful loving care of my Heavenly Father.

There are ways of acknowledging the great goodness of God. He has given us the right and the nature of His Son. He has given us complete forgiveness for all our sins. Are we careful, watchful, and cautious of what others see and hear when we are in our unguarded, casual, careless moments? How important is it? Well, if we want to remember something, we will have to observe that which we want to remember. I do not remember what I have never known or seen.

Not only has He forgiven us our sins, but also, He does not remember them anymore, they are gone forever! I must believe that and remember that. One more thing, you and I can come to Him in prayer anytime, night, or day, and He will hear our prayers. We cannot add to God’s glory, but we can certainly make it more widely known by simply stating the truth about Him in various places and countless times… To God Be the Glory Great Things He Has Done.

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

to you by the Stuartburn Emerson-Franklin Local Food Initiative. Find them on Facebook.

Some farmers are adding a small area of cover crop or making a small change to rotations.

On a smaller scale, backyard gardeners can keep their soil healthy by encouraging worms, discouraging weeds and planting compatible species.

September 2023

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).

Valuable Bicycle Reported Stolen

On September 1, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen bicycle from a residence on Spruce Crescent in Steinbach. The bicycle is described as a silver Giant Sedona LX bicycle worth approximately $700. It is believed the bicycle was stolen sometime during that morning. If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.manitobacrimestoppers. com.

Steinbach RCMP Respond to Fatal Collision Fatality in ATV Rollover

On August 3, at approximately 10:25 am, Steinbach RCMP responded to a single-vehicle collision on Road 40 E, in the RM of Ste Anne. A vehicle travelling north on Road 40 E, near Road 46 N, lost control and entered the ditch where it rolled.

The driver and lone occupant, a 20-year-old male from the RM of Ste Anne, was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced deceased on scene.

Fatal Two-Vehicle Collision

At approximately 2:05 pm on August 8, St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP responded to a report of a two-vehicle collision on Highway 52, located just west of Provincial Road 216, in the RM of Hanover. Investigators believe that a semi-trailer, being driven by a 43-yearold male from Steinbach, was travelling westbound on Highway 52 when it collided with a westbound pickup truck, being driven by an 81-year-old male from Mitchell. The pickup truck appeared to be slow moving and may have come to a near stop in the westbound lane when it was struck from behind.

The 81-year-old male driver of the pickup truck was pronounced deceased on scene. The driver of the semi-trailer suffered minor physical injuries.

St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP, along with an RCMP Forensic Collision Reconstructionist continues to investigate.

Shoplifter Walks Out with Full Cart

On August 29, Steinbach RCMP received a report of shoplifting at a grocery store in Steinbach. On August 28, at approximately 5:30 pm, surveillance footage captured an unknown male exiting the store with a cart full of groceries without paying. The male is described as 5’10”, glasses, brown hair, in his 30s, wearing a Motley Crew t-shirt and blue

Motorcycle Stolen from Steinbach Residence

The Steinbach RCMP on August 22 received a report of a stolen Kawasaki 650 motorcycle with Manitoba license plate 1FR29 from a residence parking lot on Brighton Lane in Steinbach. It is believed the theft occurred between the evening of August 21 and the morning of August 22.

The Kawasaki bike had several modifications to it. The seat panel and most of the tail had grey wrap on it. The windscreen was tinted black, stealth mirrors, and gear indicator was attached to the dashboard. The handlebars, gear shifter, and clutch lever are aftermarket modifications. The motorcycle’s owner provided photos of the motorcycle. If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-1234 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

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

On August 5, at 1:30 am, Steinbach RCMP received a report of an off-road vehicle rollover that occurred on Road 53 N, at the intersection with Road 39 E, in the RM of Tache.

Officers believe that a quad, being operated by a 25-year-old male from Landmark, was travelling on Road 53 N when he attempted to make a turn but lost control of the machine. The quad rolled onto the road, ejecting the operator.

The 25-year-old, who was not wearing a helmet, was pronounced deceased on scene.

RCMP Request Public Help in Finding Stolen Side-by-Side

On August 1 at approximately 9:10 am, Steinbach RCMP received a report of theft that occurred overnight of a 2014 Polaris Ranger bearing Manitoba licence plate 2M575.

The side by side is described as being a 5 seater and is camo in colour. It appears that the Polaris was dragged from the yard which is located in the RM of Ste Anne on 39 Road E in the 30000 area.

If you have any information in regards to the above matter, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-3264452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Steinbach RCMP Investigate Suspicious Death

On August 1, at approximately 7:45 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a firearm having been discharged at a residence located in Blumenort.

Officers, along with EMS, attended to the residence and located 27-year-old Dylan Jones who sustained critical injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene.

43-year-old Cory Jay Davis, of Blumenort was taken into custody and the following day, RCMP charged him with Criminal Negligence Causing Death with a Firearm and a number of firearmsrelated offences. Davis has been identified as the step-father of the victim.

Steinbach RCMP, along with Major Crime Services, RCMP Forensic Identification Services and RCMP National Weapons Enforcement Support Team, continue to investigate.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch September 2023

Celebrating Over 25 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Sprague RCMP Has Sage Advice for Those Locking Up Property for Season

By Dan Guetre

As summer comes to an end, many cottage and cabin owners are getting ready to head back to their primary homes to tuck in for the winter.

Cpl. Kevin Bruce with the Sprague RCMP, a detachment that encompasses many seasonal residences, wants to remind people to be proactive to avoid becoming a target of the criminal element.

“Seasonal break-ins and vandalism to cottages and cabins are definitely an issue when the population decreases in seasonal areas,” noted Bruce. “In our detachment area, we’ve had approximately 30 occurrences that include Break and Enter, Theft, Mischief, and Trespassing to seasonal areas from September 2022 until May 2023.”

Cpl. Bruce notes the stats are only one side of the story.

“To some people, that may not seem very high, however I am certain many of these types of occurrences go unreported to police by the property owners and/or representatives,” he explained. “As a result, that number is most likely a lot higher.”

While you can never fully protect yourself, Cpl. Bruce does offer some key suggests that can make you less of a target, or decrease the impact if you are a victim.

“If you have the time, I suggest that you look up the ‘Broken Window Theory’,” he suggested. “To summarize, the broken window theory explains that one broken window will lead to many more windows being broken. A property that appears to be well maintained stands a better chance of being left alone.”

Another piece of advice is if it’s not there, it can’t be stolen or damaged... clear it out at close up. What should you not leave behind?

“Anything that is valuable!” he emphasized. “Additionally, any item that could be used as a weapon (swords, bear spray, hunting knives, etc). We often receive reports of stolen seasonal vehicles that people may store at a cottage as well, such as ATV’s, snowmobile’s, lawn tractors and even boats.”

And not just the obvious should be removed, he noted.

“An underrated item that people often forget about are keys for other buildings/ vehicles on the property,” he explained. “I would also recommend removing sentimental items. The individual stealing the picture

frame likely won’t leave you the picture, or that hard drive full of irreplaceable family photos while they take off with your computer.”

Helping to identify suspects in break-ins and vandalism is getting less expensive and there are hundreds of options on the market.

“It is amazing how technology has evolved,” said Cpl. Bruce. “I have received phone calls from property owners telling me they are watching someone at their home from their phone at a location hundreds of kilometres away.”

He added that, not only can having some form of camera/surveillance on your property be a deterrent; it can also assist them in identifying a suspect if they are caught on camera.

“I don’t like telling people how much to invest, or what to get exactly, however something with good picture or video quality is very beneficial from an investigational stand point,” he noted. “It’s also fun for us to put their faces in the paper!”

Cottage or cabin owner who secure access to the property by gating or blocking their driveway could also be a deterrent as the potential criminal would have to leave their vehicle parked along the road therefore making their activity more visible to passing traffic.

“Needing to trek through some thick bush or deep snow would also be a lot more cumbersome!” he added.

Non-seasonal neighbours can play a role through awareness.

“I would encourage everyone to report suspicious activity to the police,” he said, “even if we don’t catch the suspicious vehicle/person committing a crime.”

“Let your neighbour know (a neighbour that you trust), that no one should be at the seasonal residence between certain dates/ times,” he added. “I would also encourage the neighbour to call the police and refrain from a confrontation if there is suspicious activity. At the end of the day, although property is important to us, it’s not worth risking injury or even worse.”

Even with the seasonal decrease in traffic the RCMP keep up the patrols.

“In our detachment area, there is for sure a seasonal decrease in population,” he explained. “With that said, we continue to be out and about as much as possible.

RCMP Nab Most Wanted in Steinbach

On August 29 at approximately 2:50 pm, Steinbach RCMP effectively arrested a Most Wanted Person from a few months ago. The warrant was executed without incident at a residence located just west Steinbach.

Arrested was 37 year-old, Blair Patrick Richard who had five outstanding warrants. Charges were failing to comply with probation order x 2, two sexual assaults, sexual interference, invitation to sexual touching, fail to comply with release order, and fail to comply with sexual registration order. Blair Richard was remanded into custody.

We may not see as much traffic, but we are still out patrolling just as much. In my short time being posted here, I have observed that the communities are tight knit, and everybody knows everybody. They know exactly when something doesn’t seem ‘kosher’.”

Pulling a suspicious vehicle over, or stopping to say hello and letting it be known that there is a police presence in the area is always a good thing, he added.

Finally, if you have a defined period where you are away from the property, this could be valuable information for the RCMP, along with your contact information.

“It definitely wouldn’t hurt if someone would like to reach out to us and provide that information,” said Cpl. Bruce. “The odd time, we will get a call of a break and enter reported by a neighbour, and have a hard time getting a hold of the property owner.”

Helping to identify suspects in break-ins and vandalism is getting less expensive and there are hundreds of options on the market. Not only can having some form of camera/surveillance on your property be a deterrent; it can also assist them in identifying a suspect if they are caught on camera. Submitted photo RCMP