Dawson Trail Dispatch March 2018

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Richer Celebrates with Winterfest

Searching for coins in a stack of hay kept the children warm and busy during this year’s Richer Winterfest.

Getting a ride through the park.

It was a beautiful day for the 9th Annual Richer Winterfest, which took place on February 25 at the Richer Community Park.

Several hundred adults and kids converged on the Richer Community Park to participate in a variety of free activities.

Kids of all ages enjoyed a fun filled afternoon of sleigh rides, free food, face painting, candy scramble, coin scramble, a huge bonfire and special guests. There was also a community snowman-building contest.

The one-day event was hosted by the Richer Daycare and the Richer Community Club.

March 2018

Funds Allocated to Daycares throughout the Region On March 2, the province announced that they would fund 621 early learning and childcare spaces at 63 centres across the province.

Family’s Minister Scott Fielding explained that the money is part of the Canada-Manitoba Early Learning and Child Care Agreement with the Federal government, announced February 23.

The bilateral agreement commits $47 million over three years to create up to 1,400 new and newly funded spaces for children under the age of six. Of that, $2.3 million annually will provide new operating grant funding for 621 existing licensed spaces, which were previously created by facility-driven expansion and on a waiting list to receive subsidies.

The agreement will target up to 94 newly funded spaces at centres that offer French language programming and services. As well, 61 of today’s newly funded spaces are in centres that support French immersion school communities.

Four local daycares, located in Ile des Chenes, La Broquerie and Blumenort made the list. The former three daycares approved offer French programming and services. Two daycares located in Ile des Chenes, who will be adding spaces to their facilities. Garderie Daycare Inc. has been approved for 12 infants and 21 preschool kids for a total of 33 spaces and Le Boutons d’Or Inc. was approved for 12 pre-school spaces. Le P’tits Brosous Inc. from La Broquerie and Blumenort Christian Preschool were each granted funding for ten nursery school spaces in each facility.

The agreement promises to give priority to spaces based on whether they serve higher-needs communities, such as French language, rural and northern, as well as infant and preschool spaces and early learning services for children under the age of six.

There is potential to fund additional spots in the future, as the province can identify additional spaces over the three-year period, the minister added.

As part of the bilateral agreement, the province continues to determine allocation of up to 750 new spaces for children under age six that will be developed through capital projects.

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Ste. Anne Olympians Bring Home Silver

By Marianne Curtis It may not be gold, but Ste. Anne hockey players Bailey Bram and Jocelyne Larocque can stand with pride after representing their home community and the country with

skill, athleticism and a true spirit of determination.

It was the first time that an Olympic medal in women’s hockey was decided in a shootout, and it came at the end of three periods, plus a 20-minute overtime period of thrilling, breath-

less action between Team Canada and Team USA. At the end of the Pyeong Chang Olympics 2018 final, team Canada lost to the United States in a shootout and accepted the silver medal.

In a heartfelt message to family and fans, Bram recalls how far as she could remember, she had dreamed of wearing the Maple Leaf at the Olympics.

“Of course, though, like every Canadian hockey fan I always visualized us ending the tournament standing on the blue line, singing our national anthem and coming back to Canada with a

Gold medal around our necks,” said Bram. “Despite the utter heartbreak, pain and disappointment, my teammates and I felt after the final game, I am SO proud to be coming home from Korea with a silver medal around my neck.”

Bram continued to say that for her, the silver medal will always symbolize the amazing journey and everything she had experienced as part of team Canada.

“It stands for the hard work we put in, day in and day out, the early mornings, late nights, the determination and heart we showed over and over again, the long road trips,

the countless highs and lows, the inside jokes, the happy tears, the sad tears and most importantly the special bonds we built,” Bram added.

“Yes, it’s not the colour we wanted, but representing Canada at the Olympics has been the greatest honour of my life. I am beyond proud to be coming home as the winner of an Olympic medal for my country.”

The community of Ste. Anne, along with the rest of Canada, is proud of the local athletes who gave it their all and came home victorious with silver and they surprised Bram with a community party on March 3.

Ste. Anne hockey hero and Olympian Bailey Bram is proud to have come home with a silver medal from the Pyeong Chang Olympics.

Air Cadets Off to Provincial Competition Recently, local Air Cadet LAC Adrian White finished in first and Sergeant Madison White earned second place at the local effective speaking competition.

Each Cadet successfully delivered a 5-minute prepared speech on a topic of choice and a 2-minute impromptu speech on a given topic. LAC White prevailed over 50 other contestants. Both Cadets will now have the honour of representing their squadron and city at the next provincial competition to be held in Winnipeg on March 18.

The effective speaking program is an experience in individual development. The speaker’s own growth, measured against his or her own previous experience and accomplishments, is the most im-

portant feature of the competition.

They are learning to organize and present ideas, opinions and information in a logical, persuasive manner while building confidence in selfexpression. The program’s aim is to help each Cadet take responsibility for the most important skill of adult life, communication and become more valuable members of society.

“The effective speaking competition is a great way for kids to get over any fears of public speaking.

It teaches them the value of being confident when speaking to others,” explained Amanda White, PC Chair.

The Royal Canadian Air Cadets accepts youth between the ages of 12-18 who have a desire to learn more about the air element of the Canadian Forces, wish to develop

the attributes of leadership, good citizenship and promote physical fitness. All uniforms are supplied free of charge. While the program is military based, there is no obligation for a cadet to join the Canadian Armed Forces. Youth in the program are also encouraged to learn more about opportunities within Canada’s aviation industry.

The Air Cadet Program has graduated some very notable Canadians such as astronaut Col Chris Hadfield, CBC Meteorologist Johanna Wagstaffe and several members of the military performance flying team, the Snowbirds.

For more information on the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, please visit cadets.ca and for more information about the Air Cadet League of Canada, visit aircadetleague.com.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2018

Local Health Facilities Get Provincial Funding

By Marianne Curtis On February 27, the province approved more than 120 projects across the province with funding totalling nearly $30 million to ensure health-care facilities are properly maintained. Making the list are upgrades in Ste. Anne and Steinbach confirmed Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Kelvin Goertzen.

“It’s important that we regularly invest in the maintenance of our health-care system to make sure repairs are done and the most up-todate equipment is used to support quality care,” said Goertzen. “These investments will ensure that sites continue to meet provincial, national and international standards and keep facilities in good repair.”

Projects include dining room heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) upgrades, associated building control system modernization, flooring replacement in the dining hall and main public areas at the Rest Haven Nursing Home in Steinbach. Upgrades to the electrical transformer replacement, lab and phlebotomy cooling system and an infant abduction system installation at Bethesda Health Centre also made the list.

“We continually work to make sure our nursing home is maintained properly,” said David Driedger, CEO of Haven Group, which operates the Rest Haven Nursing Home in Steinbach. “We’re pleased that these important projects will go forward this year to ensure we continue to provide the best care to our personal care home residents, and ensure our facility is safe for visiting friends and family.”

Dawson Trail MLA Bob Lagassé

announced that two projects in Ste. Anne made the list including attic ventilation ductwork, insulation upgrades at the Ste. Anne Hospital, and an air conditioning compressor unit and well water pump replacement at the Villa Youville.

“I am pleased that our Progressive Conservative government is investing in health care facilities in our constituency,” said Lagassé. “This investment will ensure that critical repairs can be made and that up-to-date equipment is available to deliver quality care in our area.”

In Vita, the air conditioning replacement, emergency generator room modifications/transfer switch work and mould remediation in two mechanical rooms is being addressed at the Vita and District Health Centre.

Safety and security projects do not require a community contribution. Project requests are submitted each year by the regional health authorities, CancerCare Manitoba, Diagnostic Services Manitoba, and the Addictions Foundation.

This year, there are 44 projects estimated to cost more than $150,000 each for a total of $21.8 million. An additional $6.8 million will address 80 projects estimated to cost less than $150,000.

The remaining $1.4 million will be held in reserve in case of any emergent project needs.

Other projects that will begin later this year include the installation of sprinkler systems, upgrades to fire safety equipment and roof replacements at sites across Manitoba.

BSI Clients Help Donate Baby Items to Local Project BSI Insurance through their Because We Care Initiative has donated 800 pounds of baby items to You Can’t Spoil a Baby. From January 15 to January 27 each of their 16 insurance branches became a drop off location for once loved or new baby items.

Within the 800 pounds of items collected there is a crib, bouncy chairs, baby swings, monitors, jolly jumpers, strollers, a car seat, roughly 100 books, dozens of baby toys, a dozen boxes of diapers and over 4,500 pieces of clothing in various sizes.

You Can’t Spoil a Baby is a local non-profit project which supports Manitoban families in need during their babies’ first year of life.

Mountain of donations collected for You Can’t Spoil a Baby.

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Canadian Criminal Law Under Siege There have been of a couple of high profile cases, which have induced strong emotions into the mix. Mixing emotion with law makes losers of all of us, but we are human.

Lady Justice is blindfolded and no, she cannot peek. The perception of partiality is mostly and thankfully just that, a perception. But once in a while perception of bias stares at you and makes one squirm. That was the case in Saskatchewan. Colten Bushie was killed, this is a fact.

Everything else after that is contested. Five people were out joy riding. They admit to stealing a vehicle at the previous farm but claim they wanted a tire fixed at the Stanley farm. Drinking was definitely a factor. Shots were fired, at least two warning shot. A third shot killed Mr. Bushie. Mr Stanley claims the gun went off by itself.

This is considered a hang shot, it can certainly happen with old ammunition more so when stored under less than ideal conditions.

Nevertheless, Mr. Stanley was found not guilty due to mitigating factors, fear for himself and family being high on the list.

What came out only after the verdict is that all potential jurors who looked of First Nations decent faced a pre-emptory strike by the defence council. This immediately strikes me as bias. The storage of gun and ammunition in unsafe conditions strikes me as being somewhat culpable of some negligence. Owning or controlling a weapon implies duty of care. The jury found the defendant not guilty, but potential bias and some potential negligence leaves me squeamish. Justice must seen to be done.

The second trial was as emotional as the first if not more, that is the sad story of Tina Fontaine. The fact that the accused was charged and tried was in itself a travesty. Subsequently we find out first there was no proof of murder, second there is no evidence on how or why she died. The prosecutor built a case on wishful thinking, the feeling of the community at large was hoping for the solution to Miss Fontaine’s murder. Now the question is was it murder, suicide or accident? What was Tina Fontaine doing on her own with minimal supervision? Why wasn’t this 15 year-old at home? Why was she in a hotel?

Obviously, the existing systems are inadequate.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

2018 Budget Fails Provencher Residents The Trudeau Liberals’ recent budget is a failure to deliver for Canadian families.

Instead of getting their (out of control) spending under control, they plan to borrow even more money from hardworking Canadians – adding billions more to the national debt.

The deficit for this fiscal year is $18 billion, which is three times higher than what Justin Trudeau promised during the 2015 election. With the budget not projected to be in balance again until 2045, these additional deficits will add $450 billion to Canada’s national debt over the next 27 years.

Under the Trudeau Liberals, government spending has increased by 20%, which is three times faster than the rate of inflation and population growth combined.

Over 90% of Canadian families are already paying more in taxes under the Trudeau Liberals and, after this budget, they will be paying even more.

Here are just a few budget issues important to the people of Provencher: We all remember last year’s illegal migrant crisis at the Emerson border. The budget calls for $173.2 million in 2018-19 to support claim processing and to improve services to the increased number of people seeking asylum in Canada. The Liberals are spending money to manage and care for the people coming in illegally but not to stop the serious national security/public safety problems posed by illegal immigration.

The budget calls for $448.5 million over five years to double the number of placements under the Canada Summer Jobs program by 2019-20, but with the new Liberal Values Test, those funds will not be available for many students in Provencher.

The Liberals also plan to spend $50 million over five years to support “local journalism in underserved communities”, including allowing Canadian newspapers to receive charitable status. Let’s be clear: Justin Trudeau’s Liberals have attacked the values of charities in Provencher and now they are considering giving NEWSPAPERS charitable status?

Finally, the budget ignores agriculture and rural infrastructure almost entirely.

While there are several elements within this budget that are positive - the extension of parental leave, expansion of rural broadband capability, a win for credit unions and the possibility of national pharmacare plan overall, it is another disappointment from this government that time and time again focuses their spending on symbolism rather than governing responsibly.

Justin Trudeau is good at making big promises, he is good at virtue signaling, but no Prime Minister has ever spent so much to achieve so little.

Protecting Retirement Income Manitobans need secure incomes and certainty in their retirement years.

This is just as important for our government as it is for all Manitobans. We will protect and ensure stable retirement incomes for Manitoba residents and this will involve striking the right balance between flexibility and keeping necessary safeguards.

Our government launched public consultations in January to seek feedback on independent recommendations made by the Pension Commission of Manitoba, as part of a mandatory review of the provincial pension system. Manitoba’s Pension Benefits Act requires that the commission study the system every five years and report its findings to the Minister of Finance. The consultations with the public ran for six weeks, and all viewpoints gathered during that period will be reviewed to help us strengthen our province’s pension system.

Despite what some critics are saying in an effort to frighten Manitobans about their public service pensions, our government will ensure civil service pensions remain strong. The civil service pension plan is stable and backed by the Manitoba government. There are no plans to change the current civil service pension plan, and we will listen to any recommendations from the Civil Service Superannuation Board to ensure the plan’s continued success. We also welcome input from our civil service, the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union and other public-sector unions.

The only thing that would threaten Manitoba’s public service pensions is a return to the NDP’s mismanagement and neglect. The previous NDP government put our province on a path to fiscal ruin that would have threatened front-line services and the long-term sustainability of employees’ benefits. When the NDP took on the last provincial pension system review, no public consultations were held. Our Progressive Conservative government wants to hear from Manitobans on decisions that affect them.

There’s another good news story in our province. J.R. Simplot Company recently announced a plan to more than double the size of its potato processing facility in southern Manitoba. The historic $460-million investment will increase the size of the plant near Portage la Prairie from 180,000 to 460,000 square feet and create 87 full-time jobs, on top of its current 264 positions. Construction is expected to begin this spring. The project will also more than double the plant’s need for potatoes from regional growers by the 2019 fall harvest.

Simplot’s expansion represents the latest portion of a billion dollars invested in Manitoba’s agri-food sector since we formed government two years ago. In early 2017, France-based Roquette announced its plan to construct a $400-million pea-processing facility.

Our government is creating a province that is open for business and helping to create jobs, opportunities and prosperity for Manitoba.

As always, I look forward to hearing from you with your questions or concerns. I can be reached at my constituency office at 204-424-5406, my legislature office at 204-945-4339 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2018

Marchand Entrepreneur Wins Just Watch Me! Contest

By Marianne Curtis On February 16, Lorena Mitchell, the owner of Evolve Green from Marchand was presented with her prizes and named as this year’s Seasoned Entrepreneur finalist in the Just Watch ME! video contest.

The Just Watch ME! video con-

test celebrates the success of entrepreneurs with disabilities or health conditions, operating a business in rural Manitoba or Saskatchewan.

For two weeks, online viewers voted daily for their favorites.

Lorena Mitchell, the owner of Evolve Green from Marchand is one of the two finalists from Mani-

toba. Evolve Green is a renewable energy company that designs, consults and installs Solar both on and off grid, Solar thermal, and Wind systems.

Evolve Green is the most reviewed solar company in Manitoba and known as a company that cares about its impact on

Entrpreneur Lorena Mitchell, owner of Evolve Green from Marchand and her family celebrate winning this year’s “Just Watch Me!” contest.

Plans for Day Care Expansion Moves Forward in St. Adolphe As MLA for Dawson Trail, I’m pleased and proud that our Manitoba government has found a way to resolve an issue that had arisen for planned daycare spaces in our constituency.

The planned seniors housing and daycare spots previously allotted by our government for St. Adolphe were jeopardized recently due to municipal development issues with the project. I’m pleased to report that through a meeting in which I participated with Manitoba Families Minister Scott Fielding and key stakeholders, the 90 new daycare spots will go ahead as planned.

Constituents in Dawson Trail, many of whom have families with young children, have spoken often about a need for daycare spaces. It’s important to me that we meet the needs of families, so I’m pleased to have helped find a way to make these daycare spaces a reality.

I’m also pleased that our Manitoba government is making a major investment to ensure health-care facilities in the Dawson Trail constituency are properly maintained. Manitoba Health is providing nearly $30 million in total for health-care maintenance projects across the province – and in Dawson Trail, for Ste. Anne Hospital and Ste. Anne’s Villa Youville. This investment will ensure critical repairs are made and that up-to-date equipment is available to deliver quality care in our area.

I Love to Read Month, every February, is a highlight of the year for me. I read to students last month at the Ste. Anne and St. Adolphe elementary schools, and brought a book by Manitoba author Gwen Smid to give to each school.

I’ve been able to get out to other areas of the province lately, along with some of my government caucus colleagues. The Snowmobilers of Manitoba often referred to as Snoman - hosted several Progressive Conservative MLAs, including me, at their annual Making Tracks event in eastern Manitoba on February 16. An exciting and educational event, we learned a lot about snowmobiling on some amazing trails.

My Coffee with Bob event in Lorette had a great turnout on February 15. It was a nice connection point to meet with daycare operators and representatives of Taché Library and the Rural Municipality of Taché, as well as other area residents. Thanks go to Chicken Chef for allowing us to take up some space there that afternoon. Another Coffee with Bob is planned for late spring, though the location is yet to be confirmed.

If you ever have questions or comments, I can be reached at 204-807-4663 or by e-mail at bob.lagasse@leg. gov.mb.ca. And stay up to date by following me on Facebook @ Bob Lagassé MLA for Dawson Trail.

the community. “I have always had multiple Immune disorders and never let this get in the way of being the best that I can be. I have always been an entrepreneur doing what I love in my Industry,” Mitchell explained.

“One piece of advice I can tell others with disabilities is to never talk about what you can’t do, only what you have to offer, because in the end this is the only thing that matters!”

The Just Watch Me! video contest encourages disabled entrepreneurs to share their business success story and inspire other people with disabilities to become their own boss.

Two winners from both Manitoba and Saskatchewan are awarded cash prizes and a number of other tools that could assist in their business operations.

Mitchell was awarded a prize based on the number of votes she received.

The video contest is run jointly by the Manitoba and Saskatchewan Community Futures Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP).

During the contest, votes from across Canada and around the world were cast by the public to determine the winner of the Seasoned Entrepreneur category. The Start Up Entrepreneurs were chosen by a panel of judges.

The Community Futures Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program helps rural entrepreneurs with disabilities to pursue their business goals by providing business advice, training, mentorship and access to repayable business loans.

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

First Annual Floppet Takes Place in Falcon Lake

By Marianne Curtis On March 3, the Falcon Sports Club, along with Falcon Ridge Ski Slopes brought the community together for the first annual floppet ski race, The Floppet.

Part of the excitement of the day was the return of two-time Olympic Biathlete Megan Imrie to her hometown to participate in the inaugural Floppet and she was excited to learn that her former ski club had undertaken a race of this size.

“There are only a few things that I will drop everything and jump on

a plane for,” said Imrie. “Family, the Olympics and the first annual Floppet.”

The locally organized event drew about two hundred visitors to Falcon Lake who either participated or watched the Nordic ski races for all ages and skill levels take place.

Participants had the option to choose either classic (diagonal stride) or free (skate technique) in one of three race distances. The “Minnow” (7.5 km), the “Walleye” (17.5 km), and the “Northern Pike”

(35 km). All racecourses started and ended at the Falcon Ridge Ski Chalet with lead skiers enjoying beautifully groomed trails through the scenic and varied terrain of the Whiteshell Provincial Park.

The fun and festive event also provided visitors with opportunities en route to various cultural tents, aid stations waxing huts and saunas while enjoying a variety of outdoor games, bonfires, and other winter activities. The packed oneday ended with a performance by Manitoba band Red Moon Road

and a celebration feast.

The term “Loppet” originated in Scandinavia from events such as the Mora Vasaloppet in Sweden and the Birke Beinerrennet in Norway. It is a great gathering of Nordic skiers who ski on a specifically groomed trail while us-

ing either classic or free skating techniques of various distances with the longest distance being up to 50 km. The event is often much more festive than your traditional ski race and after there is a party and celebratory feast with awards, prizes and usually music.

Corey Mohr was the winner of the 1st annual Floppet Loppet Northern Pike 35 km Classic.

Bethesda Auxiliary Hosts Final Book Sale March 21 - 24

By Marianne Curtis Book lovers will have one last opportunity to pick up gently used books at rock bottom prices while supporting the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary when the organization hosts their final book sale.

According to Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary President Phyllis Toews, this will be the organiza-

tion’s final fundraising event.

“We expect a good response from our many customers,” said Toews. “We had to make this tough decision because the current sorting and pricing space will no longer be available, and a lack of individuals willing to step up into a leadership role.”

Toews noted that the sale has grown substantially over the years. They have outgrown their current space and moving seemed to more work but more than the group could handle.

The March sale will take place like other years, but this time books will be priced at rock bottom prices. The final book sale will take place March 21 to 24 at the Clearspring Centre.

Since 1980, the Bethesda Hospital Auxiliary has hosted several successful sales, which have raised well over $616,580 for medical equipment deemed necessary for patient comfort or safety but not funded through Manitoba Health programs. The very first project was $1,934 for commode chairs, and two resuscitation machines.

A Gamma Probe ($42,500), Hydrotherapy Room ($45,000) and Resuscitation Unit ($40,000) are among the most expensive items purchased by the group.

Volunteers are still needed to help with the event. Anyone wishing to volunteer during the book sale is encouraged to contact Verna at 204-326-3028.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Youth Curlers Heading to Winter Games The St. Adolphe Curling Club along with the community of St. Adolphe is proud to cheer on “Team Desaulniers”, who is competing at the 2018 Manitoba Winter Games in Thompson from March 4th – 10th.

Left to right: Aaron Macdonnell, Luc Desaulniers, Luc Lagassé and Tommy McGillivray.

Flying J Opens in Ste. Agathe

On March 3, Flying J Canada officially opened the doors to a brand new full service truck stop in Ste. Agathe.

By Marianne Curtis The community of Ste. Agathe is celebrating the opening of a new truck stop and fuelling station that is expected to bring a significant number of jobs to the area.

On March 3, Flying J Canada officially opened the doors to a brand new full service truck stop in Ste. Agathe. The new Flying J Travel Centre is located conveniently at the junction of Highway 75 and Highway 305.

General Manager Kulvie Rehal said he is excited about this new opportunity for the company and the community.

The Flying J Travel Centre offers full amenities for area residents and the traveling public.

The new operation is expected to add approxi-

mately 45 new jobs, along with other economic benefits to the community. It will not only boost the local economy, but also provides residents and those travelling through Ste. Agathe with easy fuelling, fresh food options and other conveniences, such as fast food, coffee, and Western Union services.

The truck stop becomes the largest stop between Winnipeg and the American border, along Highway 75. There are eight gasoline-fuelling positions and five diesel lanes with high-speed pumps for quicker refuelling, parking for 34 big trucks and 41 cars, a drivers lounge and CAT Scale.

When the doors opened General Manager Kulvie Rehal, Josh Klassen Cash and Maintenance, Milesh Babu Supervisor and Jeremie Baudry Cash and Maintenance welcomed the first customers into the new Flying J in Ste. Agathe.

Photos by Marianne Curtis

March 2018

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Niverville Discusses Highway 311 Design at Open House On February 8, the Town of Niverville welcomed the community to a public open house to discuss future redevelopment plans for the town’s Main Street.

According to Council, the purpose of this project is to develop a proactive plan for access management and roadway improvements that promotes safety and active transportation on PR 311, while maintaining an acceptable level of service of vehicular traffic through the Town of Niverville.

Council anticipates that future growth in residential and commercial developments will increase traffic considerably. At the open house, residents were given the opportunity to review the design criteria for infrastructure planning as well as share suggestions for traffic management.

The plans consider infrastructure improvements such as traffic lights, turning lanes and round-abouts.

The Open House was overseen

by CH2M, traffic-engineering consultants on behalf of the Town of Niverville.

One of the suggestions presented is the installation of a round-a-bout at Krahn Road as this plan shows.

SnoRiders Fundraiser Attracts 120 Sleds On March 3, hundreds of people came out to Woodridge to participate in a fundraising pancake breakfast. The one-day event was held in conjunction with the Sno-Riders Vintage Club Show-n-Shine Ride.

Organizers called it an “All round great day,” said organizers of the event.

“Even the weather cooperated.”

After the community gathered for pancakes and sausages over 120 vintage sleds converged on Woodridge, including some very unique machines to participate in the show and shine. “It was a successful fundraiser in support of the Never Alone Foundation and the Woodridge Community Club,” organizers noted.

About 120 machines came out for the pancake breakfast fundraiser and Sno-Riders Vintage Club Show-n-Shine Ride.

Spring Break Art Camp Offered in Steinbach The Steinbach Arts Council is inviting kids throughout southern Manitoba to join them during spring break for this year’s Summer Break Out Camp.

Taking place from March 26 to March 29, the fun and creative adrenaline filled camp will be four days of music, dance, crafts and sports.

Two separate camps are planned, one for 5 - 8 year olds and one for 9 - 12 year olds.

Planned activities include drawing, painting, crafting, dancing on the studio floors, exploring other cultures, having fun in the theatre costume closet, theatre games, experience improv, exploring music and instruments, meet musicians, sports and games, special community guests and clinicians and an adventure in a community scavenger hunt.

Cost for the session is $98 for members and $110 for non-members.

Call 204-346-1077 to register or online at steinbachartscouncil.ca. Limited spaces are available.

Hundreds of pancakes were served to hungry participants.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Immigration Services Seeks Volunteers The Eastman Immigrant Services in Steinbach has put out a call for volunteers who are interested in meeting new immigrants and helping them transition into the community. Through one-to-one contacts, small groups, and large community events, volunteers form an integral part of a positive settlement and integration experience.

There are a number of volunteer opportunities available including a Language Buddy, who helps newcomers develop their language skills, a settlement partner assists newcomers learn about the community and about Canadian culture, and translator to interpret documents into English and interpreting for non-English speakers, in an unofficial capacity.

Drivers, tutors, class facilitators and guides are also needed.

Eastman Immigrant Services assists newcomers settling in the Eastman region, making the transition to a new community a positive experience, both for the newcomer and the receiving community.

Anyone interested in volunteering are encouraged to find out more by contacting Eastman Immigrant Services Phone 204-346-6609, email info@eastmanis.com or visit the website at eastmanimmigrantservices.com.

Mitchell Resident Charged for Numerous Thefts and Stolen Property On January 25, Steinbach RCMP issued a request to the public for assistance in identifying a male involved with numerous incidents of theft of gas from local gas stations.

On February 19 Douglas Peter Smith, a 37-year-old male resident of Mitchell was located and has been charged with 7 counts of theft, 5 counts of possess goods obtained by crime, 2 counts of Breaching Probation and 2 counts of Breaching his Recognizance.

He was also arrested related to charges pending in the City of Winnipeg. Smith was remanded in custody. Investigation is continuing and further charges are anticipated.

One Arrested in Fifteen-Minute Joy Ride On February 6 at approximately 10:45 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a complaint of a vehicle that was stolen from an address on Hanover Street in Steinbach.

At approximately 11:05 pm, officers located the vehicle on Barkman with a male in the driver’s seat.

Thirty-Six year old Paul Claeys of Blumenort was arrested and charged for Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000, Knowingly Possess a Prohibited Weapon, Possess a Weapon Dangerous to the Public and Fail to comply with a Weapons Prohibition Order.

Claeys was remanded into custody.

Homeowner Thwarts Truck Thieves On February 4 at approximately 2 am, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a theft of truck from a residence on High Point Lane. A Grey Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Duramax diesel pick-up truck with Manitoba license plate HVT 379 was stolen.

One hour after the vehicle was stolen, it was involved in an attempted break and enter in the RM of La Broquerie, but nothing was taken. The homeowner scared them away.

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

What is Pole Top Fire Season?

Fires on top of hydro poles are a common cause of electrical outages in Manitoba. They most often occur in the spring, but can happen at any time of year.

Why do pole top fires happen? Insulators, typically made of porcelain and polymer, are used to attach power lines to wood distribution poles. Dirt and grime can build up on these insulators throughout the year. The build-up can be worse in the winter before the first big spring rain helps to clean the insulators and restore their insulation properties.

While cracks or lightning damage can cause an insulator to fail and create a pole fire, usually it is humid weather that contributes to the risk of pole top fires. Dense fog, very light rain, or light, wet snow can all provide the right conditions. The moisture in the air combines with the dirt on the insulators to allow an electrical short circuit, which can cause a fire.

The short circuit trips a switch, cutting power to the lines, much like the fuses or breakers in a house. The tripped switch causes an outage, which could be limited to a small area or could involve a large number of customers. Sometimes the pole may burn through, leaving the top of the pole, cross-arms and insulators suspended by the power lines or power lines can break from the weight.

If you see a hydro pole on fire, call 911.

March 2018

Local Business Directory

10

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

The Disability Tax Credit There are lots of advertisements in the media about the Disability Tax Credit. It’s true, many people may qualify but don’t even know it because it can be confusing. And many people don’t consider themselves “disabled” so don’t want to apply for it.

I have even heard someone say that if they are approved; their driver’s license will be cancelled. This is absolutely not true. I have many clients that have qualified for the Disability Tax Credit that still have valid driver’s licences.

I recommend anyone who is unsure, to apply for it. It’s better to try than to not try at all. In addition to you completing the application, it does get completed by your doctor and Canada Revenue Agency has the final say as to whether you are approved.

There are many reasons why someone may qualify for the disability tax credit.

The most common reason is mobility. As we get older, there are many reasons why we have difficulty walking, arthritis in the knees, heart condition or lung conditions (COPD or Emphysema) or severe back pain often reduce the ability to walk.

So what qualifies as “limited mobility”? Generally it’s the inability to walk about 100 metres or about one city block because you have to stop due to pain or shortness of breath or because of fatigue; or that it takes “an inordinate amount of time” (inordinate = excessive, unreasonable). Does it take you a lot longer to walk compared to someone your own age with no impairment?

There are many other impairments that may qualify for the Disability Tax Credit: Hearing - It needs to be quite hard of hearing, even with hearing aids; generally if I have you in my quiet office if we still have a difficult time having a conversation because I have to speak louder and often repeat myself, then you likely qualify.

Bladder or Bowel Control: If someone has a colostomy bag, they likely qualify. Digestive disorders such as Inflammatory Bowel Disorder or Colitis or Enlarged Prostate may also impair your bowel or bladder function and you may qualify.

Mental functions for everyday life: What may qualify is memory loss from Dementia or Alzheimer’s or head injury; or severe depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety or even severe ADHD. Visual impairment: Can be from Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Cataracts, Diabetic Retinotherapy, Glaucoma, Myopia or Retinis Pigmentosa. You need to be visually impaired in both eyes (one blind eye will not qualify you).

The impairment must be most of the time (90%) and for a continuous period of 12 months or more. So if I break my leg, I may have restricted mobility for a period of time, but I would hope it would not last 12 months!

The Disability Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit. This means it reduces your taxes payable (you can check your taxes and look for line 435 taxes payable). The saving is up to $2,000 per year, depending on how much tax you paid.

For couples, if the spouse claiming the disability tax credit has none or very little taxes payable, the unused credit can be transferred to the other spouse to reduce their taxes payable.

We can adjust up to 10 years back, so if you qualified since 2007, we can go back to 2007 to 2016 and adjust your taxes.

In Manitoba, even if you pay no taxes, you may be eligible for provincial credits ($113/year); this may not seem like a lot, but I have adjusted 10 years for some people who only get $113/year and that means over $1,100 in their pockets. They are very happy to receive this payment.

There may be situations where another family member is financially supporting the individual that qualifies for the disability tax credit. If so, the supporting family member (parent, child, sibling or others) can have the unused disability amount transferred to them and receive the tax refund.

Children can qualify for the disability tax credit, too, and there are additional credits available to parents through the Canada Child Benefit. We encourage you to contact our office if you think you may qualify. We can review the form with you and provide information to your doctor to identify and explain the areas of daily living activities that are being affected and how you may be eligible.

A quick reminder that you have until April 30 to file your income taxes for the 2017 tax year. If you or your spouse is self-employed, you have until June 15 2018. If you are missing tax slips, we can often retrieve them from Canada Revenue Agency with your signed authorization.

Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and Certified Financial Planner; living, working, and volunteering in our community. Contact us at 204.422.6631 or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Co-op) or Info@SteAnneTaxService.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Steinbach Legion Gets Funds for Commercial Kitchen Steinbach Legion is one of eight community centres across the province to share in about $84,000 in grants slated for the purchase and installation of commercial-grade kitchen equipment.

The Provincial government funds community centres for upgrades if they open up the facilities to entrepreneurs.

“This is an important investment in community-led economic development and local value-added processing,” stated a provincial representative.

Thanks to this initiative, the Steinbach Legion, Branch 190 will get more than $14,300 for three commercialgrade convection ovens for its Legion hall.

Commercial community kitchens can be rented by start-up food entrepreneurs who may not have the resources to invest in their own production facilities. It was noted that community centres are often the launching pad for new food products, giving Manitobans access to the space and equipment needed to grow from a home-based business into something more.

A complete list of registered community kitchens across the province is available online. The Hadashville Recreation Centre, the St. Pierre Museum and Steinbach Legion are the only three registered community kitchens in the region that are available for this service.

The equipment at community centres can also be used to cater dinners, social events and other celebrations.

The Written Word

MLA for Dawson Trail, Bob Lagasse stopped off in a few schools to help promote I Love to Read month.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Sharing our Stories...

Eating Healthy This year the Dietitians of Canada campaign is dedicated to helping Canadians Unlock the Potential of Food.

Highlighted in this year’s campaign is the power of food to bring us together. We all lead busy lives and it can be challenging to find time for family meals, but did you know there are many benefits?

Here are just a few of the reasons why eating together matters: - Nurtures feelings of comfort and security.

- Gives everyone a chance to talk and share stories.

- Offers parents a chance to role model healthy eating.

- Increases consumption of nutritious foods.

This Nutrition Month challenge your family to increase the number of meals you eat together, and remember that breakfast counts too! For meal planning tips and great tasting recipes, visit NutritionMonth2018.ca.

Food also holds the potential of discovery! Kids love getting into the kitchen and being able to help.

Involving your children in meal planning, grocery shopping and cooking helps to build food skills and can increase self-confidence. Other benefits include: - Supports children to develop a positive relationship with food - Encourages children to eat nutritiously given that they are more likely to eat what they have prepared.

- Reinforces what children are learning in school.

- Provides opportunities to pass on family traditions.

This March challenge your child to choose a new recipe and enjoy getting creative in the kitchen together!

Copper Thieves Caught Red Handed On December 28, RCMP were dispatched to the property of an MTS compound where two males were caught in the act of the Break and Enter.

One male, Jeffrey Carlson, a 43-year-old male resident of La Broquerie, was arrested at the scene while the other male, Micheal Renz, a 28-year-old resident of Steinbach, who fled from the scene was arrested in a short foot pursuit by officers. Copper was recovered in the suspect’s vehicle.

Renz was also charged with a previous break and enter to the same MTS compound, which occurred on December 12. In addition, he was on a previous Recognizance for other charges. Renz was Remanded into custody and subsequently released. Steinbach RCMP currently has an outstanding Warrant for his Arrest.

Repeat Offender Charged Again

11

Public Should Be Aware of Male Charged with Sexual Offences On June 1, 2017, Elgin Brent Penner, also known as Radek, a 28year-old, resident from Landmark was charged by Steinbach RCMP with Failing to Comply with an Undertaking related to a charge of Sexual Assault, which had occurred in May 2017.

Steinbach RCMP then entered into an investigation, and pro-actively sought out additional victims.

Penner has now been charged with Sexual Assault x 4, Sexual Interference x 5, Sexual Invitation to Touching x 2; Luring a Minor; Indecent Exposure x 2; Making Child Pornography; Indecent Phone Calls;

Trafficking Marihuana x 2; Uttering Threats x 2; Fail to Comply with a Recognizance x 2 and Fail to Comply with Undertaking.

Penner was remanded in custody.

On February 28, Penner was released from custody with stringent conditions. He is on an absolute curfew and must be home unless with his parents and cannot be alone with anyone under the age of 18.

The investigation is continuing and additional charges are forth-coming say police. RCMP believe there are further victims, should you have any information, contact Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-4452.

Arrests Made in Break-Ins and Stolen Property On February 10, Steinbach RCMP arrested Chaz Hannah, a 27-yearold male resident of Steinbach with Break and Enter. Hannah appeared in Steinbach Provincial Court on March 1.

During the course of this arrest, Police located Kaitlyn Fehr, a 23year-old resident of Zhoda and Tyler Evan Barkman, a 27-year-old resident of Steinbach within the residence. Fehr and Barkman were also arrested for “Being Unlawfully in a Dwelling Home” and during the course of their arrest, numerous items of stolen property were recovered as well as Break and Enter

On February 26 Branden James Penner, a 26-year-old male resident of Steinbach, was arrested by Steinbach RCMP for Breaching Conditions of his Recognizance and Possession of Liquid Morphine. He was remanded in custody.

Previously, on February 7, Penner was arrested for Failing to Comply with a Recognizance x 2 and was remanded into custody.

Before that, on January 16, Penner was arrested for Theft under $5,000 x 2 and Fail to Comply with Undertaking. He was remanded into custody.

Finally, on December 31, Penner was arrested for resisting and obstructing a Police Officer, Mischief under $5,000 and theft of a truck.

How Can a Bird Sit on a Power Line Without Getting Shocked?

We are told never to touch power lines so we aren’t shocked and seriously injured or killed. So how can a bird sit on a power line without getting shocked?

Electrical current flows in a path called a circuit. It will not leave the circuit unless it can find another path to the ground. When the current reaches the part of the wire where the bird is sitting, it has two options. It could travel through the bird or stay on its circuit.

Because the bird isn’t touching the ground, it is easier for the current to stay on its path and the bird stays safe. If however, the bird spreads its wings and one wing touches the pole, it would create a shorter and easier path to the ground. The electrical current would then run through the bird to get to the ground, which would electrocute the bird. In the same way, if you were on a ladder or tree and touched the wire, you would be electricity’s instant path to the ground.

Why doesn’t the current travel to the ground down the pole? Electrical current travels easily through metal and water. These are called electrical conductors. Because your body is mostly water, electricity can also travel easily through you. If electricity travels through you, it’s likely you could be seriously hurt or even killed.

Metal power lines are separated from the pole by insulators. Insulators are made from material like glass and ceramic that an electrical current cannot easily get through and therefore cannot travel down the pole.

Insulating material also keeps electricity inside appliance cords. Rubber or plastic insulation around the cords keeps the electricity in the wires and prevents you from getting a shock. If this insulation is broken or wears off, the electricity can come through and shock you also, if you overload an outlet by plugging in too many things, cord insulation can overheat and melt, causing a shock and fire hazard.

Always treat electricity with caution.

March 2018

Recovered items.

tools. The majority of the property has been returned to their rightful owners, but police are still in possession of two garage door openers.

If anyone is missing one they should contact RCMP. Fehr and Barkman were charged with Possess Goods obtained by Crime x 4, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Possession of Break and Enter Instruments and Unlawfully in a dwelling.

Fehr was also charged with Failing to Comply with Probation. In addition, Barkman was charged with Uttering Threats to Kill as well as Assaulting a Police Officer.

12

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Local Businesses Utilize Job Grants

By Marianne Curtis A number of local businesses are taking advantage of a government program that helps provide opportunities for workers to gain new skills.

Eight companies from the southeast area are among the list of 163 Manitoba companies receiving assistance to provide valuable skills training through the latest round of Canada-Manitoba Job Grants.

The province has announced that a total of $4.7 million is going to businesses across the province to provide this assistance. Of this amount, $185,356 is going to local businesses in Steinbach, Grunthal, Niverville and Ile des Chenes.

Employees who have benefited from the program range from manufacturing to construction. From Steinbach, Barkman Concrete received $5,771; Brown’s Plumbing and Heating got $35,902; CP Loewen Enterprises at $29,256; Rest Haven Nursing Home received $25,351, and Farm Marketer received $5,556.

Niverville’s Her Dream Diamond received $20,000, and from Grunthal, Southwood Ventures got $34,357. Titan Environmental from Ile des Chenes received $29,161.

So far this fiscal year, Manitoba workers have benefited from approximately $8 million, a combination of the $4.7-million investment from the governments of Canada and Manitoba and $3.2 million in private-sector contributions.

The Canada-Manitoba Job Grant is an employerdriven training support program that enables Manitoba companies to train new and existing employees to fill available jobs, expand their workforce and become more competitive.

The grant has encouraged private-sector investment in workforce development. It provides eligible employers up to two-thirds of the cost for a maximum of $10,000 per trainee to assist with training or skills upgrading costs and in turn, employers must pay a minimum one-third of eligible training costs and provide appropriate jobs for trainees once training is complete. For unemployed individuals, the grant can provide up to $15,000 for training costs, such as tuition and training materials.

Since its creation in 2014, the Canada-Manitoba Job Grants program has awarded 503 grants to train 10,220 employees, primarily at small and mediumsized companies in Manitoba.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Elementary Students Encouraged to Feed Birds

13

New Program Director Starts at Eastman Immigrant Services

By Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis A Lorette business owner has come up with another unique idea to encourage local students to get involved in their community.

Last year, David and Jessica Audette, the owners of Home Hardware in Lorette purchased and donated 250 books, one for each student in the three Lorette elementary schools, with the plan to make it a yearly event. This year the event extends to every student in all three elementary schools. As this year’s event planning took place, the long winter inspired the couple to amend their generous program in another unique way.

“The extended cold weather made us ask the question of how birds survive such conditions,” David explains. “My wife Jessica and I thought it would be a good idea to see if we could get bird feeders into the hands of every student in the three elementary schools.”

The Audette’s reached out to Pinebush, a wholesale importer and distributor of unique and distinctive bird feeders and garden

March 2018

Christine Wiebe displays a sample of the free bird feeders that elementary students from Lorette will receive with the purchase of a bag of birdseed as part of an initiative to encourage students to care for birds in the community.

tools. “I also contacted the schools to see if they were interested; I got a resounding ‘affirmative’ from both parties and hatched a plan,” Audette explained.

Through the program, approximately 1,000 students and staff from all the Lorette schools are going to be offered a ‘free’ bird feeder, valued at about $15 with the purchase of a 4lb bag of birdseed for the wholesale cost of $3.

“The rationale there is to make sure these feeders are used and not tossed under a desk or bed,” Audette continued. “We have 700 bird feeders currently in stock, and we are ready to deliver them to the schools.”

To coincide with the generous gift, the schools have agreed to teach the students about the birds in the area, and a visit from the ambassadors of the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre in Ile des Chenes will also take place.

As of March 1, Eastman Immigrant Services in Steinbach has a new program director after it was announced that Josie Fast has been hired for the position.

According to the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce, Fast assumed her new position on March 1, after working for the past two and a half years as a settlement worker in the EIS program. Before the EIS program she worked with South East English and Literacy Services for sixteen years.

Chamber Director Ben Dueck said her biggest asset is her passion for newcomers and her desire to help them settle well. “The Chamber is thrilled to have Josie step into this role,” said Dueck. “She brings an enthusiasm and expertise with her that will see the ongoing success of this significant community program.”

Fast said she is excited about her new role within the organization that she loves. “From a very young age, I knew that I wanted to be around people from other countries and cultures,” said Fast. “As a child, I was fascinated with other cultures. I would watch movies set in lands far away and imagine that I was living there as well. My grandparents’ story of immigration from Russia intrigued me.”

Fast recognized that was a privilege to be part of an immigrant’s settlement story. “The unique world view that others have passed on to me, through traveling and conversations has shaped me into the person I am today.

It is a privilege to sit and listen to the life experiences that people have. Sometimes these stories are humorous, other times they are profoundly tragic, always I come away feeling humbled. The strength of the human spirit never stops to amaze me,” Fast noted.

EIS is the largest program run by the Steinbach Chamber and works to assist new immigrants settling in southeastern Manitoba. The program aims to make initial settlement a rewarding experience for newcomers. Services include reception and orientation, special events and activities, access to community resources, English training, employment and career coaching and notary services.

14

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Providence Women Win MCAC Volleyball Championship The Providence Pilots women’s vol- in two matches en route to the 2018 Going into the February 23 play- munity College Cougars and Canaleyball team dropped just one set and Manitoba Colleges Athletic Confer- offs as the top seed in the province dian Mennonite University (CMU) allowed more than 19 points only once ence Volleyball Championship. the Pilots beat the Assiniboine Com- Blazers to secure a second MCAC title in three years.

After watching the Blazers progress to Sunday’s final after beating the Rebels, the Providence women swept the Cougars 25-18, 25-18, 25-19. Then, against CMU, they raced out to a two-set lead before dropping a close third frame and prevailing 25-11 in the fourth.

“I am so proud of this team,” gushed head Coach Kyle Guenther after his players received their medals and the MCAC trophy. “We’ve been working towards this moment for six months, and to cap it off with a championship means so much. Our team has shown so much character in getting through a long season. Through it all we’ve stuck together as a team, as friends and as a family.”

Guenther pointed out that the Pilots peaked at exactly the right time and played some of their best volleyball at the most crucial part of the campaign. “Our offense was spread out nicely and our passing was some of the best I’ve seen all year. We also played incredible defense,” he said. “We barely let anything score against us all weekend, which is a mindset more than anything else.”

LaDawn Friesen executed 20 kills over the course of the weekend and graduating senior Shayna Staerk added 14 kills, 3 aces and 20 digs.

Sam Bridle, also graduating in the spring, contributed an impressive 70 assists to go along with 5 aces and 11 digs.

The Providence College men’s team, also the top seed, dispatched the Red River College Rebels in four sets before losing the championship match in straight sets to CMU.

The Providence Pilots women’s volleyball team won the 2018 Manitoba Colleges Athletic Conference Volleyball Championship after a weekend of fierce completion in the first weekend of February.

St. Malo’s Festival of Friends a Huge Success

Judging who makes the best Pea Soup is serious business during the annual Festival of Friends, which took place in St. Malo.

By Marianne Curtis Once again, the community of St. Malo managed to kick off local Festival Du Voyageur with huge crowds and active participation.

This year’s Festival of Friends took place from February 16 to 18 for a family friendly weekend filled with activities strategically placed throughout the community.

Organized by the Friends of St. Malo Park since 2008, the annual St-Malo Festival

of Friends offers a spectacular celebration of culture, cuisine and tradition. This year’s festival weekend began with fireworks on Friday at 7:30 pm, followed by Junior B hockey action in the arena and a performance by Revolving Doors.

Saturday morning started bright and early with the prestigious Actif Epica starting out from the St. Malo arena, and a community pancake brunch. The afternoon was filled with children’s activities including face painting and

games followed by a Pow Wow and Pea Soup contest.

The St. Malo Provincial Park played host to skiing and snowshoeing. Other activities that took place included a cribbage tournament, community Mass, and more Junior B Hockey on Sunday. Afterwards Ricky Smitts and a DJ put on a show at the Sunday night community social.

Since February 2008, a Friends Winter Festival is held during the Louis Riel long weekend to celebrate this “Joie de Vivre”.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Steinbach and Niverville Volleyball Players Earn Scholarships

March 2018

Providence Presents Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap For four days, the Providence College Theatre will be the scene of one of Agathe Christie’s most loved mystery classics, The Mousetrap.

Students and special guests have been rehearsing British accents in preparation for the March 15 opening night performance. The theatre classic, written by Agatha Christie and performed more than 27,000 times in London over 65 years, is the second major production staged by Providence since revamping their theatre.

“The Mousetrap is an institution and clearly a favourite among theatre fans,” said Marc Moir, Instructor in Theatre at Providence. “As Providence strives to rebuild its theatre program The Mousetrap seemed a logical way to get back in the game with one swing.”

The play, which debuted at the Theatre Royal in Nottingham City Centre in 1952, is a murder mystery rich with suspicion, suspense and charm and keeps the audience captivated until the end, which may or may not consist of a twist or two.

“Our actors have all done a wonderful job of adapting to this style of piece,” said Moir. “Everyone’s British accents are top notch, and it’s always fun to do a period piece.”

Jon Ted Wynne as Major Metcalf will also treat the audience to a special performance. The long-time actor and filmmaker studied at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Another touch the audience can look forward to is a collection of props that have been used in productions of The Mousetrap by London’s St. Martins Theatre.

The Mousetrap will open at Providence on Thursday, March 15 with a 2 pm matinee for local high school students. The general opening will be that night at 7 pm, followed by performances on March 16 at 7 pm, March 17 at 2 pm and 7 pm and March 18 at 3 pm. Tickets are $15 and available at the door (rush seating) or online at brownpapertickets.com.

The winners of this year’s Dr. Dale Iwanochzko scholarships included Austin Anderson from Niverville Collegiate and Spencer Teetaert from the Steinbach Regional Secondary School (centre).

By Marianne Curtis The Manitoba High Schools Athletic Association and Volleyball Manitoba have announced the winners of this year’s recipients of the Dr. Dale Iwanoczko Memorial Volleyball Scholarships. The $1,000 scholarships are awarded annually in memory of Selkirk, Manitoba volleyball player, Dr. Dale Iwanoczko.

Four winners were named including Austin Anderson from Niverville Collegiate and Spencer Teetaert from the Steinbach Regional Secondary School.

Anderson earned the award after he was selected as an “AAAA” graduating all-star and won the

“Players Choice Award” at the “AAAA” Boston Pizza Varsity Volleyball Provincial Championships. He was named a Manitoba Provincial All-Star twice in club volleyball. When he is not playing volleyball, Anderson volunteers as an assistant coach for the Niverville JV boy’s volleyball team, a youth leader in his church, a camp counsellor at the Red Rock Bible Camp and is currently a respite worker. He holds an academic average of 90.5% and is a member of the school’s concert and jazz bands.

From Steinbach, Teetaert is involved in a variety of sports including volleyball, soccer, baseball,

track and field and basketball. He was also named a varsity graduating all-star. The grade 8, Royal Conservatory pianist (with honours) is also a voice for the youth in his community and has lobbied the City council to create a Youth Advisory Council. He competes in volleyball on his school team but also plays club and beach volleyball, while maintaining an academic average of 99.2%.

The Manitoba High Schools Athletic Association and Volleyball Manitoba work in cooperation to support the academic and athletic endeavours of Manitoba High School student athletes.

Providence College Receives Accessibility Grant Providence College has been awarded Federal funding towards its ongoing accessibility development. The availability of a $9,393 grant was confirmed by the office of Ted Falk, Member of Parliament for Provencher, late last month.

As part of its plan to make the Otterburne campus barrier free, Providence hired Ager Little Architects and Grant Design Group to perform an accessibility audit in the spring of 2017, the results of which were delivered in December.

Dan McLeod, Director of Facilities and a member of The Providence Campus Redevelopment Committee is pleased to see the barriers come down. “Our main administration and teaching facility, the Hanna Centre, was constructed nearly a century ago,” explained McLeod. “Structurally the building is solid however, we are faced with challenges in dealing with stairs and multi-level hallways.”

McLeod noted that a series of accessible doors have been installed through Heritage Hall, which connects the library to the Hanna Centre. “Providence is firmly committed to promoting diversity, inclusion and accessibility in our programs and employment opportunities,” McLeod added. “We believe in the inherent dignity of all people, and we are committed to identifying and removing barriers that prevent full and meaningful participation in all aspects of campus life.”

The Federal funding will be used to install accessibility swing door operators with push plates as well as relocate and connect the new wiring to the fire alarm system. The IMPACT 2020 campaign will provide for the remaining funds needed to complete the upgrades.

15

16

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Fire Destroys Old Dairy Barn in La Broquerie It’s Southeast Music Festival Time! Until Tuesday, March 20 thousands of participants are involved in music, drama and dance sessions! Let’s celebrate that and attend the sessions to support our up and coming young artists! Come and support Guitar, Strings, Musical Theatre and Junior Piano sessions at the Arts Centre until Friday, March 9.

New Rock Meets Classic Cool - Live music - Canteen, pingpong, bar service and free shuttle service. The Middle Coast band is performing. A Creative Youth Council initiative. Also, there will be a great local band playing for a warm up act. Tickets only $8 in advance. Contact Steinbach Arts Council office or online steinbachartscouncil.ca.

TurniptheMusic on Friday, March 16 at 8 pm at the Neufeld Garage - Calling all Youth! Ages 16 and up. Be part of TurnipThe Music! Show. Looking for youth to help with this event, stage and tech, food, bar, tickets, and so on. Get your friends together and call us for info.

Don’t Miss the Adrenaline Rush - Spring Break Out Camps are Back at SAC with a 4-day Camp Tropical Explosion. From Monday, March 26 – Thursday, March 29 at 9 am - 4 pm daily. 2 Camps for Ages 5-8 and 9-12. Music, Dance, Visual Arts, Drama, Recreation and New swimming on Thursday afternoons at Steinbach Aquatic Centre. Limited spaces available for campers. Sign up online or call to sign up.

Don’t Miss the next Canvas & Cabernet Paint Parties - Enjoy creating and savory appetizers and decadent wine, in a social atmosphere! On Wednesday, April 18 at 6:30 pm, Sea Life. Limited spaces so get your name on the list. New Dates Coming - check our website for the creative themes. We’re pleased to have Arlene Enns, who is an accomplished artist, instructing at The Steinbach Arts Council, in schools, and other communities. For $35, each night includes instruction in a themed environment, all your art supplies, delicious appetizers, and wine.

It’s Coming! Summer in the City - Applications for performers, artists and vendors are now online– check out the website steinbachartscouncil.ca or summerinthecity.ca Deadline Saturday, March 10. Volunteers needed for Summer in the City Artist Tent to help artists, meet the public and have fun!

Calling all musicians for KR Park concerts: Looking for singers, instrumentalists, groups and performers to perform in the park during June/July. Download application forms online. Deadline is Thursday, April 6.

Dream Catcher Workshop - With Roanne Plett - Celebrating Culture on Saturday, March 10, from 10 am-12 pm. Make your own dream catcher and learn about the history behind this beautiful craft at the same time! Only $20.

New Resin Art Workshop with Arlene Enns – On Saturday, April 14 from10 am – 12 noon.After popular demand, Arlene Enns brings the resin pouring medium back to SAC! Come join her to create a serving board with beautiful swirled resin art. The perfect gift or a conversation starter for your home! $25 for the workshop and $25 for materials. Sign up online steinbachartscouncil.ca.

Gala Save the Date – Purchase Your Table Today – On Friday, April 6 – Get your tickets for the ‘Celebrate the Arts’ Jewels & Jeans Gala Fundraiser. Homegrown Quintessential Country Entertainment, a fine art auction, a Jewelry Tombola, Martini Saloon, Jailhouse Bail Out, Delicious food and dancing, and a Live Artist on site! Table $850 and Individual Tickets $120.

Jump into Spring Programs at SAC: Creative Wellness – Pilates – Power Pilates -Basic Core Pilates - Pilates Intermediate - On the Ball Pilates and Belly Dance – 3 Workshops.

Cooking - Cake X-Travaganza Workshop Visual Arts – Canvas & Colas Paint Parties on Wednesday, Apr 18 Fireflies Digital Photography Beginner Watercolor Painting, Beginner Oil Painting, Abstract Acrylic Painting, Beginner and Intermediate, Contemporary Acrylic, Digital Photography.

New Aboriginal Art Classes - Moccasin Making with Donna is back in action. Make your own moccasins, mukluks, gloves and learn how to bead them yourself.

Gauntlets & Mittens - Classes start on Monday, March 5. Call 204-346-1077 for more information!

Koncerts for Kidz Series – Bubbleman on Friday, Apr 13 at 6:45 pm at SRSS Theatre. $14 each. Giant encasing bubbles, exploding bubbles, bouncing and somersaulting bubbles. Bubbleman’s soapy wizardry will magically transform bubbles from simple shapes to insects, carnival rides or fire!

La Broquerie barn fire feb 2018.

On February 28, La Broquerie Fire Department was called to a barn fire just south of La Broquerie, along Provincial Road 302.

According to Deputy Fire Chief JC Normandeau, said the dairy barn was fully involved when fire crews from both the RM of La Broquerie and RM of Ste. Anne Departments arrived.

Normandeau said the dairy barn was vacant at the time of the fire. “Flames were coming out of the roof when we got there,” Normandeau confirmed. “It consumed the whole building and the hay shed on the north side of the barn.”

After an investigation, the Office of the Fire Commissioner determined that the fire was deemed accidental and caused by an electrical short in the wiring. Damages are estimated at around $400,000.

No animals or people were lost or injured in the blaze.

Thieves Target Parking Garages Between the January 4 and 6 individuals gained access to parking garages of a multi-unit apartment building on Loewen Blvd in Steinbach by prying open the door. Once inside the individuals tried to steal a skidoo, damaging the ignition. As well some tools and gas can were stolen. The investigation is ongoing.

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

Search for Stolen Trailer During the month of January, a trailer was stolen from Penner Trailers in Steinbach.

The trailer is a black 2018 Load Trail 83 x 14, with 48 inch sidewalls, valued at approximately $12,000.

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

What is a GFCI and How Can it Save Your Life?

Is your home equipped to protect you and your family from electrocution? A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a special type of outlet designed to trip when it detects that current is flowing along an unintended path – through a human body or water for example.

Using a GFCI can prevent serious electric shock, which can stop the heart or cause serious burns. They can also prevent a fire from occurring when a live wire touches a metal conduit. GFCIs should be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages and outdoors or anywhere appliances or power tools are used in close proximity to water. This is because water or wet objects are able to conduct electricity very easily and increase your chance of shock. While GFCIs are required by code in new kitchens, bathrooms, unfinished basements and outdoor receptacles, owners of older houses can retrofit GFCI receptacles at those locations.

Test your GFCI. Because lightning and other power surges can damage a GFCI’s delicate circuitry at any time, GFCIs should be checked monthly. How can you test it? Push the “Reset” button of the GFCI outlet to prepare the unit for testing. Plug in a night light and turn it on. Then push the “Test” button on the GFCI. The night light should go OFF when the “Test” button is pushed. If the light stays on, the GFCI needs to be replaced.

Contact a licensed electrician to check the GFCI and correct the problem. Temporary or portable GFCIs can be used for construction or outdoor projects; however, they should be tested before each use. They should not be used as a permanent alternative to a regular GFCI.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2018

17

Middle Coast to Perform in Neufeld Garage

Middle Coast to perform in Randolph at Neufeld Garage on March 16.

Photo ad supplied by SAC

On March 16, the Steinbach Arts Council and the Creative Youth Council are hosting a special presentation of TURNIP the MUSIC with a performance by local band The Middle Coast.

The Middle Coast is a trio known for their adventurous melodies that are simultaneously vintage and vanguard. Both trailblazing and a throwback, regardless of age, genre, or geography, listeners across the board will feel right at home.

The evening event is taking place at the Neufeld Garage, in Randolph, which is a unique venue in the community of Randolph featuring original garage components with memorabilia from the Randolph ice rink, the church and the school.

With on-site billiards, Ping Pong, shuffleboard along with food, drinks, good music, the event is expected to draw crowds of all ages.

A free shuttle bus courtesy of White Owl Bus Lines will be running from the Steinbach Arts Centre (SAC) parking lot at 7 pm and 7:45 pm. The donated shuttle returns to SAC parking lot at 10:30 pm and 11 pm. Food trucks will be available on-site as well.

Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the door. Contact 204-346-1077 to reserve tickets or visit steinbachartscouncil.ca.

5 Ways to Tap Into the Benefits of Volunteering

Find more information about volunteering at www.amnesty.ca/get-involved.

Year round, volunteers enrich their communities, help their neighbours and make positive changes. Every April, we take time during National Volunteer Week to recognize the enormous impact of volunteers in their communities.

Some studies estimate that the hard work of volunteers delivers billions of dollars in benefits to towns and cities across Canada. At the same time, volunteers themselves benefit. It can be a great way to gain work experience, develop a skill set, stay healthy and meet new people.

Volunteering comes in many forms and it can be difficult to know how to start. Here are five quick tips on how to choose the right opportunities for you: • Think about the causes you care about. One idea is to think back on the work or experiences you’ve had that have been the most meaningful. This kind of reflection may be a helpful way to decide which causes have the closest connection to you.

• Where do you want to make a difference? Are you looking to give back to your immediate community, or are you more globally minded? These two can often go hand-in-hand when you connect with local volunteers with an eye on global developments.

• Consider how much time you have to give. Research shows that people who volunteer feel as though they have more free time. Nonetheless, it is important to think about how much time you can spare and it is worth reviewing your weekly schedule before making a commitment.

• How can you contribute most effectively? It is always a good idea to volunteer your time doing something that you are skilled at or have some experience with. That doesn’t necessarily mean doing the same work you have done in your career. It could also be a skill you developed through a hobby or pastime. You want volunteering to be fun, as well as fruitful.

• Connect with an organization. With so many different ways to give of yourself, donating your time to a grassroots organization can add some structure and inspiration. Organizations like Amnesty International, for example, offer opportunities and resources ranging from letter-writing, event organizing and many other forms of volunteer work.

Article courtesy of www.newscanada.com

Volunteer Opportunities: We are in immediate need of a few receptionists. All ages are welcomed. Please call Lynda at 204-320-4603 for more information. Receptionists work a half-day shift once a week. We are also looking for a volunteer with an electrical background. If this is of interest to you please call Lynda.

Rentals: Book your next function/event at our Centre. We can accommodate Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, and Showers amongst others.

Call Lynda 204-320-4600 for more information and to book.

Events/Presentations: All events/presentations are open to all ages.

Fall Prevention and Mobility Equipment Presentation - Tuesday, March 13 at 2 pm. Join Estelle Haines, Physiotherapist and Calvin Penner from Diamond Athletic + Medical Supplies for an informative presentation on fall prevention and mobility equipment. You will learn to identify the root causes of falls amongst seniors and the appropriate interventions you can put into place to prevent them. This is a free presentation but please RSVP by March 6.

Old Time Country Dance – On Friday, March 23 from 7 – 11 pm. Live Band The Old Time Country Band. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Buy your tickets early for a discount.

Movie Time – Monday, March 26 - at 1 pm with “Are We There Yet?” Free Popcorn! Everyone is welcomed!

New Programs: Tai Chi – 24 Posture/Exercises – Starts Thursday March 22 from 1 – 2 pm every week. This exercise program will focus on warm up exercises, stances, tai chi walking, and balance exercises utilizing chairs.

Instructor is Walter Kohut.

Beginners Pickle Ball – Starts Monday, March 5 from 1 – 3 pm every week. If you would like to learn Pickle Ball at a slower pace, we welcome you to come join this group.

Regular Activities: Make sure to check out our quarterly Newsletter.

Please Note: All of the Programs, Activities and Events at the Centre are open to any age. Our programs are aimed for Senior’s however, we welcome everyone and encourage you to come out and see what our Centre has to offer. All Programs/Activities have a fee of $2 for members/ $4 for non-members to participate unless otherwise stated.

Fitness Class: Tuesdays from 10:45 – 11:45 am.

Ho Model Railway Project: Wednesdays from 9 am – 4 pm.

Out with Friends: Once a month. Call Lynda at 204-320-4603 for next outing.

Movie Time: 4th Monday of every month at1 pm on March 26 with “Are We There Yet? Free Popcorn!

Floor Curling/Floor Shuffle: On Wednesdays from 1:30 - 4 pm.

Pickleball: Monday, Thursday and Fridays from 9 – 11:30 am and Tuesdays from 9 – 10:30 am. Beginners Pickleball on Mondays from 1 – 3 pm.

Drop in Billiards: Monday - Friday from 9 am – 4 pm.

Cards: Monday – Canasta; Wednesday – Cribbage.

All card games are from 1 – 4 pm.

Choir: Resume Wednesday March 14. Any age is welcomed to join.

Computer Classes: Wednesdays from 9 am – 1 pm.

Old Time Country Jam: Wednesdays from 7 – 9 pm.

New Connection: 1st Thursday of each month from 2 – 3:30 pm. Need to make a new connection (friends) or new to the community or new in your living arrangement, come join us. Call Lynda 204-320-4603.

Free Programs: Walking Program: Monday – Friday from 8:30–9 am and Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 12:30 - 2:30 pm in our Auditorium.

Free to the public, any age welcome! Enjoy Free Coffee or Tea after!

Crafty Corner: Every Friday from 2 - 3:30 pm. Bring your craft anything goes – knitting, scrapbooking, woodwork, etc and have some good conversation, coffee and share in learning from each other.

Cozy Corner Coffee Time: At 10:30 every morning for free coffee, tea, and a cookie. Meet new people and staff in a friendly and inviting atmosphere.

Buddy Up – This program is designed to touch base daily (short phone call) with a buddy to act as a safety net. If you live alone or spend part of your week alone this would be a program for you! If you are interested, please contact Lynda 204-320-4603 for more details.

Other Programs/Services: Noon Meals: Available Monday through Friday Cost $6. Come join us for lunch. Call Kitchen at 204- 320-4605 the day before or by 9 am that day to reserve your meal.

Foot Care Clinic: 3 Foot Care Nurses are available different days throughout the month. Call Reception at 204-320-4600 to book your appointment.

For more information on our programs, activities or volunteer opportunities, drop by the Centre Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4 pm, call Lynda at 204-320-4603 or call the reception desk at 204-320-4600, Fax 204-320-9098 or visit our website at patporteralc.com.

18

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

C ommunity E vents Dugald Mixed Doubles Curling League - On Tuesday Nights at 9:15 pm or Sundays at 1 pm at the Springfield Curling Club. Format will be regular Canadian Guidelines. Cost $130 per person for a minimum 20 eight end games. Contact Cam Magura at 204-771-0029, ckmagura@gmail.com.

Prairie Voices Toastmasters – On Tuesdays at 6:30 pm in the Springfield Library.

Falcon Lake Alcoholics Anonymous - Whiteshell group meets every Wednesday and Saturday at 8 pm in All People’s Church, Falcon Lake. Come and meet with us or call 204-349-2374.

We can help.

Friedensfeld Whist Drive - On Friday, March 9 at 7:30 pm, and Sunday, March 25 at 2 pm at the Community Hall.

Spring Fundraiser Dinner – On Sunday, April 22 at 12 noon at the Community Hall.

Grunthal Dessert Fundraiser – On Saturday, Match 10 at 7 pm in Support of the Grunthal DropZone at the Grunthal Abundant Life Fellowship with special guest Johnny Cash (by Corny Rempel).

Cost $20 Ticket includes entry and 1 dessert. Additional desserts are available for purchase.

Hadashville Circuit 30 - Mondays and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Rec Centre .Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class. Contact Wendy 204-348-2433.

Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great stress release and have an excellent workout at the same time.

Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or KSTA. academy@gmail.com.

Ile-des-Chênes Medication Safety Presentation – On Friday, March 9 from 1 – 3 pm at the Trans Canada Centre. Free event with guest speaker hosted by IDC seniors group. Call 204-771-0560.

Spaghetti Dinner - On March 16 from 5:30 - 8:30 pm at TransCanada Centre, 1-Rivard St. Cost Adult ticket $15 (11 years and older). Gluten Free available. Wine for sale. Hosted by parish Notre-Dame-de-la-Misericorde.

IDC Seniors Group – All Activities at the Trans Canada Centre Indoor walking - Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 – 10 am Yoga - Mondays from 10 – 11 am Pickleball - Wednesdays and Sundays from 1 -3 pm Water Colors - Thursdays from 9 – 11 am Block Therapy - Fridays from 9:30 - 10:30 am Taekwondo – On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 – 8 pm at the Ecole Ile Des Chene School. Cost $40/month, family rates available. Contact Kangs.mb.ca, Master Bill Tam 204296-8217.

Parent Child Playgroup - On Wednesdays from 10 am – 12 pm at the School, Rm142. Contact idc.mb.playgroup@ gmail.com.

Story Time in Pyjamas - Every Thursday evening at the Ritchot Library Ecole Regional Gabrielle-Roy at 6:30 pm. Ages 2-8 however all ages are welcome.

Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturday of every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn about Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive Blessed Rose Petals and other Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’s place of miracles. Contact Corinna 204878-4908 or email her at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for more info and register.

Kleefeld Community Playgroup - For parents, caregivers and children up to age 5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs and snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the Kleefeld Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013.

La Broquerie Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de Santé from Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan, 204-424-5285 or labseinerss@gmail.com.

Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. Cost $10.

Lorette Lego Club – On Wednesday, March 21 and Thursday, March 22 from 6:30 -7:30 pm at the Bibliothèque Taché Library, 1082 Dawson Rd. Join us to build, create & explore! Drop-in, no registration required.

Safer Medication Use in Older Persons 5 Questions to Ask! – On Friday March 23 from 2 – 3 pm at Club des Blés d’Or Lorette a Seniors Group Guest Speaking Event.

Chase the Ace Lottery – On Thursdays from 6:30 – 8:30 pm., draw at 8:45 pm at Dawson Trail Motor Inn Bar. Come, support this very much needed complex, at the same time have the chance to chose the Ace of Spade, and win the grand prize jackpot. Hosted by the Community Complex Fundraising Committee.

New Horizons Seniors - Play cards, Scrabble and more. Drop in Tuesdays 1 - 5 pm at Foyer Notre Dame Lorette, 12 St. Amant Ave. Contact Iris 204-878-3552.

Richer Recovery AA - Group meets Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Paul at 204-422-7673.

Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey Pchajek Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating grades 8 and 12.

Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC License # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 or doreen@spmf.ca.

Ritchot Senior Services Foot Care Clinic - On Wednesdays by appointment. To reserve contact Janice 204-883-2880. With Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse.

Sarto Ukrainian Dance Club – On Mondays from 7 - 8 pm at the Sarto Hall. Join the Sarto Polevnyi Ukrainian Dance Club for the season! You do not need to be Ukrainian to dance! Boys & girls, ages 3 to adult, no prior experience required! Cost starts at $150/year.

Niverville GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced the loss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learn about the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to register or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com.

Sprague Sprague & District Historical Museum - Open by appointment from June – September 30. Explore life as it was in the early days. Free Admission. Donations Accepted. Contact 204-4372210, 204-437-2209 or 204-437-4686.

Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six.

Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.) Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com.

St. Adolphe Touch Quilts – On Wednesdays March 7, 14, and 21 from 9:30 - 11:30 am at 457 Main St. Ritchot Senior Services for quilters and people that like to lend a helping hand, join us this winter/spring. This season were are creating touch quilts that will be donated to the Alzheimer Society. Last year we were able to donate 10 quilts and we are hoping to meet or beat last year’s donation.

Pansy St. Michael’s Parish Fish Fry – Friday, March 9 from 4-7 pm at the Hall. Guests are invited to a Lenten Fish Fry with Pickerel, Perogies, Salads and Dessert. 50/50 and Silent Auction.

Adults $17, children under 12 $12, children under 6 free. Call Leonard at 204-434-6078 and Olga at 204-434-6660.

Paving Pansy Road Spaghetti Supper Fundraiser – On Saturday, April 14 from 5 - 9 pm at the Hall. Advance Tickets Only!

Spaghetti, Sauces, Salad, Bread Sticks, Dessert and Beverages. Doors Open at 5 pm, Supper at 5:30. Quilt and Pie Auction, 50/50 and Silent Auction. Adults $20, Children (7 - 12) $12, 6 and under free. Contact Carla at 204-434-6767 or Olga at 204-434-6660 for tickets. Everyone Welcome!

Paradise Village Paradise Squares Dance Club - On Tuesdays from 7 – 9:30 pm at the Paradise Village Rec. Hall. Modern Square Dancing is fun and a great social activity. Couples and singles are welcome. Contact Larry 204-422-5424.

Pinawa Whiteshell Toastmasters – Tuesdays 11:30 am at Whiteshell Laboratories, 1 Ara Mooradian Way. Sign in required.

Prawda Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondays and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact Wendy 204-348-2433.

Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children.

Snacks provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

Randolph #TURNIPtheMUSIC! – On Friday, March 16 at 8 pm (Doors open at 7:30 pm), at the Neufeld Garage, Hwy 206 sponsored by the Creative Youth Council. Featuring local, grown talent The Middle Coast. Free Shuttle Service. Cost $8 in advance/$10 at the door. Food trucks on site. Tickets at SAC office or online steinbachartscouncil.ca. Limited Tickets. Bar service available.

Funds raised to support the Creative Youth Council.

Richer Craft and Bake Sale Fundraiser – On Saturday, March 10 from 10 am - 3 pm at the Richer Young at Hearts Club hosted by SouthEast Flower Beds in support of Opening Doors to Success Inc. Opening Doors is a Non-Profit organization Employment Centre. Awesome spring sales with Direct Sales Reps, Crafters and Bakers. Something for everyone. Canteen will also be served by Stacey Pchajek Memorial Foundation. Bring your children for face painting while parents shop.

Richer Young at Heart Dinner and Dance – On Saturday, March 17 at 5 pm at the Richer Young at Heart Club. Supper at 6 pm. Cost $20. With live entertainment By Request.

Reserve your ticket contact Marie at 204-422-3052 or Irene at 204-422-5932 Richer Community Club Chase the Ace! - Every Saturday at the Richer Inn from 5:30 - 7:45 pm. Tickets only $1 each. Jackpot is growing! Door prizes on random Saturdays ranging from glassware to Jets tickets and jerseys! Bud, Spud and Steak Special and more! Check out and like Richer Community Club Facebook page for updates. LGA License #1392RF. Adult & Teen Challenge Concerned Persons Support Group Join us Thursday evenings at 7 pm, in the Richer Fellowship Church, 50 Southeast Drive. If you have a relationship with someone who has a life-controlling problem, join us for this nine-week Living Free course. Receive encouragement and support in a safe setting, and learn practical ways to best help your loved one. Contact Pastor Ben Funk at 204-326-2254 or phone the church at 204-422-5308.

Old Tyme Dance – On Sunday March 11 from 1 – 5 pm at the Pioneer Hall. Cost $15 includes lunch, Music by Mark Morisseau. Contact to reserve tickets Rae 204 883-2440 or Denise 204 883-2429.

Kidney Foundation Guest Speaker - On Tuesday March 13 at 10 am at 457 Main St. Information about what they do and how they help people with kidney disease. Also, a nurse from the Manitoba Renal Program to talk about the signs of kidney disease, and answer any questions you may have.

Monthly Mood Disorders Meeting – On Thursday March 29 at 2:30 pm at Ritchot Senior Services 457 Main St. Topics includes depression, bipolar, recovery, shame, resilience, mindfulness, meditation, coping and self-soothing skills, interrelationship skills, seniors’ issues, distress tolerance and peer to peer support. Everyone is welcome.

Lunch Program & Bingo – Every Thursday at the Le Club Amical, 344 Main St. Call ahead for take-out or eat in. Cost $8.

Contact 204- 883-2491.

Pickleball - Thursday evenings from 6 -8 pm at St. Adolphe School, 444 la seine street.

C.H.I.L.D program – On Wednesdays from 9:30 - 10:30 am at Ecole St. Adolphe School. Children’s introduction to learning and development. Contact sas@srsd.ca or 204-883-2182.

Fitness Program – Until May 31 every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday includes cardio, muscle and yoga inspired classes all designed especially for everyone 50+ at 457 Main St. Cost: 10 classes for $40 and receive 1 extra class free, 5 classes for $20 or $5 drop in fee.

St. Malo Chase the Ace – Every Wednesday, at the St. Malo Hotel, hosted by the Fire Department and the St. Malo Arena. Purchase tickets from 7 - 10 pm, draws take place at 10:15 pm. $2/Ticket. License#: LGA 3748-RF-26461. The fire department is raising money for their Wildfire Program. The arena is raising funds for a new Zamboni. So please come out for your chance to win and support these organizations that are an important part of this great community of ours.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba - On the last Monday each month at 7 pm at St. Malo Church. For persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns; individual and support groups. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

St. Pierre-Jolys HELP/Canada Foodgrains Bank Auction – On Saturday, March 17 from 2 - 4 pm at the Garson Arena. Free pie and coffee. Spring Kick Off - Help Project, Fun Auction (Bill Klassen) at Sugar Shack. Items include a fishing trip, cleaning 1,000 bushels of wheat, rolling of soybean land, golf passes, beef, vintage Persian lamb coat, home made goods like beet bread, knitted mitts, towels, moccasins, also gift certificates from local businesses and much more.

The Knights of Columbus - The St-Pierre Carillon Council – On the first Thursday of the month at 482 Jolys Ave. W. Contact 204-433-7633.

Ste. Agathe Card Games – On Tuesdays from 1:30 - 4:30 pm at the Community Centre, 183 Pembina Trail. Cost Membership $10 a year. Bring a friend Day. Contact 204-882-2180.

Taekwondo - Every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:15 - 7:30 pm at Ecole Sainte Agathe hosted by Kang’s Taekwondo Academy. Cost $40/month. Family rates available. Contact Jason Barnabe, jason.barnabe@gmail.com or 204-802-3458.

Ste. Anne Pickleball – Calling all active seniors. On Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 am at the Ste. Anne Tennis Courts (weather permitting). You only need good clean running shoes, sunscreen, water & lawn chair (optional). Drop in fee of $3 or register $25/season. Contact Erika 204 422-5843.

Seine River Services for Seniors – Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15.

Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. Cost $10. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local services or e-mail labseinerss@gmail.com.

Ste. Geneviève Library Night – On 2nd Tuesday every month, March 13 at the Community Centre at 6:30 - 8 pm. A large selection of books in both French and English, for children and adults. Special requests can be made to the librarian, e-mail btl@srsd.ca or 204-878-9488 or in person. Come for a visit and see what we are all about.

Steinbach Bethesda Book Faire – From Wednesday, March 21, to Saturday March 24 at the Clearspring Centre, North #12 Hwy. From 9 am - 9 pm Wednesday through Friday and 9 am - 4 pm Saturday. The 25th Book Faire featuring lower prices this spring of used books, sponsored by The Bethesda Regional Health Care Auxiliary. Contact 204-326-3028, or 204-346-1640.

Steinbach & Area Garden Club - On Monday, March 12 at 7 pm, at the Mennonite Heritage Village. ‘Enhacing Biodiversity on the Farm – A Global Project with Kenton Lobe, CMU instructor and food justice advocate. Discover the exciting work being done at the Canadian Mennonite to promote heritage seed saving and cultural gardening projects. Plus - members seed exchange. Everyone welcome. Refreshments. Door prizes. $5 non-member admission. See sagardenclub.com Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser – On Friday, March 15 from 5 - 7 pm at the Legion Community Hall. Cost $5 per plate of spaghetti and garlic toast with beverages.

Financial Literacy Seminar – On Tuesday, March 20 from 7 – 8 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library. A Financial Literacy seminar taught by CPA Eric Klippenstein. The topic of the seminar is Ten Healthy Habits of Financial Management. Cost – Free. Advanced sign up required. Contact 204-326-6841.

Limited Space Available.

Nobody’s Perfect Parenting - A 6-week course on Fridays from 1 - 3 pm beginning March 16 – April 27 (no class on March 30). Discover positive ways of parenting. Come meet, discuss, share, and discover with other parents of children age 0-5 years at the Steinbach Family Resource Centre, 101 North Front Dr. Childcare provided. Registration required. Contact 204-346-0413.

Breast Feeding Group – On Fridays at 10:30 am at the Steinbach Family Resource Centre for a support group, current info and a variety of presentations. Contact 204-346-0413.

Toddler & Me Story Hour - Classes offered three times a year for a 10-week session in Fall and Winter and a 5-week session in Spring. Classes are free. Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, literacy and parenting tips, crafts and snack for parents and their children ages 1-3. Advanced In-person registration is required. Limited space available.

Classic Movie Night - On Friday, March 23 from 7 – 9 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Join us for our bimonthly Movie Night.

We will be watching “To Catch a Thief”. Admission and popcorn free. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Drop In Book Club – 2nd Tuesday every month at 7 pm in the Jake Epp Library. We’ll post the book for discussion that month and if you’d like to join us please stop by. If you want to start your own book club instead, you can always take advantage of our Book Club collections. No sign up required. Just read the book and come hang out.

Knit-Wits Drop-In Club for Adults - Every 4th Monday of the month, from 6 – 9 pm at the Jake Epp Library. This is for anyone interested in fibre handcrafts such as knitting, crocheting, cross-stitch, needlepoint etc. This is not a class but a casual knitting circle for all skill levels. Please bring your own items/supplies.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) – On Wednesdays, from 8:45 - 10:30 am at the Royal Canadian Legion. Cost $2/ week. A weight control support group that helps take off pounds sensibly and keep off pounds sensibly. Contact BettyLou Toews at 326-6397.

Eastman Immigrant Services - Many events and activities to support and help you make new friends. Volunteer to help at our community events.

Every Day English All Levels - Every Wednesday 1 – 3 pm.

Reading & Writing – All Levels on Monday and Wednesday from 10 am – 12 pm.

Pronunciation All Levels - On Monday and Wednesday from 7 – 9 pm at D4-284 Reimer Ave. Classes are free.

Southeast Entry Program Online: Learn about Health Care,

Employment and Laws. To register for this 4-week online program, contact Josie@eastmanis.com, 204-346-6609 or email lois@eastmanis.com.

Eastman Safety Upcoming Programs - Located at 385 Loewen Blvd. Register online at eastmansafety.ca or contact 1-204371-1595.

Creativi-Tea Time Adult Colouring Group - Twice monthly on the 2nd Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:30 pm and on the 2nd Friday from 1 - 3 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Cost Free. Join us for a time of relaxation, tea and colouring. Tea and supplies are provided but you are welcome to bring your own!

Games Day & Games Night – Every 1st Saturday of the month from 12 – 5 pm and the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6 – 8:30 pm, at the Jake Epp Library. Come down to play strategy games. Bring a friend, your strategies and games.

Test your skills and have fun. Ages 14 and up unless accompanied by an adult. Contact 204-326-6841, programs@ jakeepplibrary.com.

Royal Canadian Legion - On 1st Tuesday every month until June at 8 pm and Ladies Auxiliary meets 1st Monday of each month at 7:30 pm at the Steinbach Legion Community Hall, 294 Lumber Ave. Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the United Church of Steinbach, 541 Main St. Registration for girls 5-17. Develop personal values and well-being, self-respect and respect for others; promote fun, friendship, adventure and challenges through new experiences; develop leadership and decisionmaking skills; give service to the community; value the natural environment.

The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon except when Monday falls on a long weekend at the Chicken Chef, 365 Main Street, visitors are welcome. Contact Cornie at 326-3155.

Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for family and friends of people with mental health issues are held the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden East building, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email eastmanmss@mts.net MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living with multiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursday evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place apartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email nadine.konyk@ mssociety.ca.

MS Lunch Group- On 4th Thursday of every month, from 12 – 1 pm at All D’s Restaurant 320 Main Street. Contact Stephanie Bevacqua 204-988-0904, Stephanie.Bevacqua@mssociety.ca.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support groups - Meets on the first Tuesday of each month from 1:30 – 3 pm at The Eden East Office, 21 Loewen Blvd For persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

The Bethesda Regional Healthcare Auxiliary - meets on the first Tuesday of every month except for the months of July and August at the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone interested in auxiliary work. Call Verna Thiessen at 326-3028.

Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at the Magnolia Restaurant. Contact 204-326-2313.

Carillon Toastmasters - Meetings open to adults who want to improve their leadership and communication skills. Thursdays at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale St. Contact Sheryl at 204-326-7628 or Irene at 204-424-5737.

Al-Anon Program – Meets on Mondays at 7:30 pm at the Cultural Arts Centre back door, downstairs. Contact Lloyd 204326-4365.

Al-Anon 12 Step Recovery Group - Meets on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm at United Church, 541 Main St, front door, ring doorbell. All are welcome.

Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group starts at 4:30 pm at Steinbach Family Resource Centre B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact 204-346-0413.

Woodridge The Mobile Clinic – Is onsite on the third Thursday of every month from 9 am – 4 pm at the Community Club. Contact for appointments 1-855-644-3515 or southernhealth.ca.

Zhoda St Patrick’s Dance and Wing Night – On Saturday, March 17 from 8 pm – 1 am at the Community Hall. Cost $10 per ticket. Wings $6/lb. DJ Music.

General Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- On Tuesdays, March 13, April 10, May 1 and June 12. Join us for a fun filled day. Tour from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Begins at 8:30 am, pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village.

Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cash giveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus. Contact Marilyn at 204326-4939 for information and reserve a seat.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Inaugural Lorette Art Show Features Local Artists

An open house meet and greet with the artists took place on February 22 to kick off the first local community art show in Lorette.

By Marianne Curtis Three local artists were granted a unique opportunity to show off their work in an inaugural pop-up art show in Lorette.

From February 22 to March 3, the Lorette Home Hardware entrance was transformed into an art gallery featuring the works of two artists from Lorette and one from Landmark.

“The art event is something we thought of as a way to showcase local artists at a time of year when the store is a little quieter,” explained

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

David Audette franchise owner.

“We have some remarkable artisans in the area and felt it would benefit both of us.”

This inaugural show featured three local artists with the prime artist being photographer Tobi Ann Baumgartner, from Lorette. She is a photograper who loves capturing everything from the crippling old barn, to a brand new baby.

Doug Ingram, also from Lorette featured some of his work. He specializes in building and repair of traditional wood and canvas ca-

noes, while making premium paddles, painting and photography.

From Landmark, Husband and wife duo Kim and Ron have been creating together for 40 years in a fun and funky way. Over the years, one would start a new hobby and the other would be sometimes unwillingly brought along for the ride. Items range across their many interests like crazy quilt style denim jackets, wood turnings, worry woods, carvings, quilts, paintings, jewelry, knit and crochet items and furniture.

19

What to Do if You Get Scammed You work hard for your money, so you can spend it on things that matter to you — whether it’s your children’s education, a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a fancy new smartphone. But every day, there are fraudsters trying to scam you out of your money online, in-person, by mail or over the phone. The best thing you can do is take steps to protect yourself, but if you do fall victim to a scam, here’s what you should do: If you’ve been tricked into signing a contract or buying a product or service. Contact your provincial or territorial consumer affairs office and consider getting independent legal advice to examine your options — there may be a cooling off period or you may be able to negotiate a refund.

If your financial information has been compromised. Call your financial institution immediately so they can suspend your accounts and limit the amount of money you lose. Credit card companies may also be able to reverse a transaction if they believe your card was billed fraudulently.

If you sent money to a scammer. If you sent money through an e-transfer, contact your financial institution immediately. If they have not already processed the transfer, they may be able to cancel it. If you sent money through a wire service, contact the wire service immediately — act quickly and the company may be able to stop the transfer. If you sent a cheque, contact your financial institution immediately. If the scammer hasn’t already cashed your cheque, they may be able to cancel it.

If the scam relates to your health. Stop taking pills or substances you are unsure about immediately and see a doctor or other qualified medical professional as soon as you can. Don’t be embarrassed — tell them about the treatment and bring along any substances, including their packaging, so they can be better equipped to help you. Also tell them if you have stopped any treatment that you were on before the scam.

Report the fraud. In all cases, you should report the scam to the authorities who may be able to warn other people and minimize the chances of it spreading further. The best places to report this are the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and the Competition Bureau.

Find more information at www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/fraud and www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

Article courtesy of www.newscanada.com

Akways report the fraud to the authorities.

20

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Ever Lasting Eternal Security The whole world around us is focused on security. There is airport security, computer security, old age security, bank security, home security and so on. On a political level there is Social Security, the National Security Council, and the UN Security Council. In the US there is the Homeland Security and in Canada, we have CSIS. Every individual and every country is trying to protect themselves from some outside harm that could endanger their safety or well-being.

What is it in your life that threatens to overthrow that fundamental need we all have of security? Is it the lay-off slip from work, the overdue mortgage payments, and the doctor’s report of cancer or long-term disability, an unstable marriage or bullying at work or school? Whether it is physical health, mental health, public safety, or military defense, everyone has a different idea and approach for your security.

But what about your spiritual security? When God made you, He gave you a spirit and a soul that will live for eternity. He also put something else in every person that makes them look for or long for something more than what they can see around them.

Let’s call that an emptiness or void. Some seek to fill that void in different ways seeking spiritual security. Every known religion was established trying to find the key to that security. Some deceive themselves or are deceived into thinking they have found that elusive security, but the God of Heaven has made us in such a way that only by coming to Him can it be found.

God established His plan even before this world was made (I Peter 1:18-20). Then 2,000 years ago, He sent His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ to this earth, as a human being. Christ told us He was the way, the truth and the life and that the only way to security and fulfillment in life was to come to God the Father through Him. The Bible calls that salvation or being born again (John 3:3).

Once a person has come to God this way, Ephesians 1:6 says, “He [God] hath made us accepted in the beloved [Christ].” Now any Christian, saved person is accepted before Almighty God, just like His own Son, Jesus Christ. That is a promise of spiritual security.

Also John 10:27-29 gives more security. When a person comes through Christ to get to God, the Father, then Christ gives them eternal life and says no man can pluck that person out of His hand.

Our eternal spiritual security rests in the omnipotent, all-powerful hand of the Almighty God. You can’t get more secure than that!!!

When you have this security, God will help you take care of all your other problems in life. He is all you need to have security in this journey of life. Is He your security today? He wants to be!

Won’t you let Him?

RCMP Files Youths Steal Pizza Delivery Vehicle On Saturday, February 3 at about 10 pm, the Steinbach RCMP received a report that a local Pizza Delivery Vehicle was stolen in Steinbach. Within twenty minutes of the vehicle being stolen, the RCMP located and surrounded the vehicle. Two males, both 16 years if age, one a resident of Steinbach and one a resident of the RM of Hanover were arrested and charged with theft of a motor vehicle. The delivery vehicle was returned back to its owner.

Steinbach Resident Charged for Stolen Trailer On January 20, Steinbach RCMP entered into an investigation related to an enclosed trailer stolen from a residence in Anola in August 2017.

This investigation led to a judicial authorization to search a property in Steinbach and the subsequent recovery of the stolen trailer and contents in the trailer, which were also stolen.

Robert Braun, a 36 year old, resident of Steinbach, has been charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000.

Fined for Extreme Speed On February 26 at approximately 8:30 pm Steinbach RCMP were patrolling on Road 32 North also known as Ridge Road when they stopped a vehicle travelling at 156 km in a 90 km zone.

The 21-year-old driver from the Steinbach area indicated he was in a rush to get home. The driver was issued a traffic offence notice with a fine of $914. He was also served a Serious Offence Notice, which is notice of intention to suspend or cancel his drivers licence.

Stolen Fire Extinguishers Discharged On January 3 at approximately 4:50 pm, four youth discharged fire extinguishers in the parking lot of a business on Hwy #12 in the City of Steinbach. The fire extinguishers were later found to be stolen from a property on Loewen Blvd.

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

Construction Tools Stolen from Trailer On or about January 7 individuals gained access to a construction trailer parked on Loewen Blvd. in the City of Steinbach. Once inside the trailer the individuals stole multiple cordless tools, air nailers and a drill. RCMP are continuing to investigate.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2018

21

Scripture Cautions About Falling Away

Fatal Snowmobile Collision On February 13, just after 11:30 am, Falcon Beach RCMP responded to a report of a snowmobile collision on the Can Am Trail, approximately 40 km south of Falcon Lake in the RM of Reynolds. Two men, a 54-year-old and a 25-yearold, both from Steinbach, were headed south on the trail when the 25-year-old collided with a tree. He was pronounced deceased on scene.

The deceased was wearing a helmet at the time of the collision. Alcohol is not considered a factor in the collision.

Kokomo Area Mischief During the evening of the February 5 and early morning of the sixth an unknown person or persons were trespassing on properties in the area of Kokomo Road in the RM of La Broquerie. The suspects entered at least one unlocked vehicle and damaged a garage door while trying to break in.

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

La Broquerie Warrant Uncovers Drug Cache On February 23, Steinbach RCMP executed a drug search warrant at a residence in La Broquerie.

Kevin Morrison, also known as Kevin Alguire, a 44-year-old resident of La Broquerie has been charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking x 3 related to seizures of methamphetamine, hashish oil, morphine and Percocets pills as well as possession of marihuana. Morrison was remanded in Custody.

Hebrews 5:11-13… 11) We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12) In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13) Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. (NIV) Just going for a walk is to a certain extent a great experience.

I cannot help marvel at all the beauty of nature and the human activities. So many different sounds; I can hear cars zooming by me, I hear young folks in cars spinning tires, and I think, why would they do that to their cars? Then I remember what we did when we were that young, and so I say to myself, “I know why they make their tires scream like that.” Do you think we are lucky to enjoy all this stuff? Now I do not know if you are like me, but when I get into this mood my mind takes me into uncharted waters. I wonder about this and about that.

Like I wonder why it is so difficult at times for me to understand some of the deeper spiritual things in life.

Look at Hebrews 5:11 ... We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. Here I am confronted with a challenging thought. Is it possible for me to understand totally the full mystery of the Christian faith in my lifetime? Will I ever grasp all that it teaches? However, I do take some comfort in the fact that the writer of Hebrews shows that the Hebrew people were slow to learn as well. It seems they also had the great difficulty understanding what was being taught.

Do you think that the learning process has something to do with my attitude? I know that if I do not attend church for any length of time, I develop a cool spirit towards Biblical thought.

My mind tells me that the Sunday school teacher is dull! That the preacher, mmmm, you could smack his toe with a hammer to wake him up, man is he ever boring! It does not take long to make me think that everything spiritual is boring.

Now if I really give it some serious thought, I soon realize it is not the pastor, not the Sunday school teacher, and not the worship leader but me. The preachers and teachers: their message comes through loud and clear; in fact, it has something to say to all whose business it is to think. That means it has something to say to me because I have the ability to think.

I am aware that there are those who refuse to grow in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. There are those who are guilty of what one might call the willful ignorance of what the Bible teaches. There are many folks’ worldwide that have no growth in their faith during their whole lifetime. They deliberately refuse to try to understand any theological thought, new or old. Yes! They are grown adults, and somehow, they insist on remaining content with the religious development of a child.

The responsibility of every pastor/preacher is to share spiritual truths with others, as well as new knowledge and new thought. Modern-day problems of moral values just will not go away. We must face them, and we must talk about them.

Maybe I should not refer to this as a modern-day problem because when we look way back in church history we find that the church has struggled with this issue for an awfully long time ... that of a Christian who refuses to grow up!

As you and I grow in our understanding of what the Bible teaches, and we take the next step by learning to live our faith in our daily walk with Christ, we are exercising our spiritual senses, which, by the way, cultivate our spiritual discernment.

It is characteristic of little children that they lack keen judgment regarding spiritual matters. We all know that a baby will put anything in its mouth. An immature believer will listen to any preacher on the radio or television and not be able to identify whether they are true to Scripture. The ability to discern good and evil is a vital part of Christian maturity. It is impossible for Christians to stand still in their Christian walk; we either both grow in Christ and claim God’s blessing, or we do go backward and wander about aimlessly ... that decision rests with us… To God Be the Glory great things He has done.

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

22

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Protect Toddlers with Tamper Resistant Outlets Each year many children are treated in hospital emergency rooms for electric shock or burns as a result of tampering with an electrical wall outlet around the home. Electrical outlets are at the perfect height for little ones crawling around the floors and seem to be an interesting thing to investigate. Tamper resistant receptacle technology provides a simple solution to help reduce these injuries.

In 2009, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) released changes to the Canadian Electrical Code mandating new homes be built with tamper-resistant electrical receptacles.

In order to protect children from accidental electric shock, tamper-resistant outlets are built with a shutter system that does not allow insertion of an object into only one of the holes. The shutter will only open and conduct electricity if something is inserted into both the outlets holes at the same time – such as two or three-pronged plugs meant for the receptacle.

Tamper-resistant receptacles are an affordable alternative to small plastic outlet covers that could be a choking hazard for small children. While tamper resistant receptacles may cost a little more than standard ones, they do add to the safety of your home. Retrofitting is relatively simple, but Manitoba Hydro encourages homeowners to have them installed by a licensed electrician to ensure the wiring meets safety regulations.

In addition to providing safe electrical outlets, replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords. Damaged cords pose a safety hazard to children, especially babies and toddlers who have a tendency to chew and tug.

Learn more about electrical safety at hydro.mb.ca.

March 2018

23

End of a Season

Well ladies and gentlemen, another season has come to a close and soon another one will begin.

It was a good season. The season was filled with fun, friends and plenty of opportunities to learn and to grow. I will also admit that sometimes this was a trying season that seemed to eat up a lot of our family’s spare time but it was totally worth it.

No, I’m not talking about our winter season although I guess some of the things that I mentioned could also be applied to that season as well. What I’m talking about today is my twelveyear old’s basketball season. With this being, his first time playing basketball on a team, outside of the regular school gym classes, it was quite amazing to watch as his skills grew and how his natural talents flowed into his playing.

With my son’s speed, it was fun to watch as the opposing team’s player, the one that was set to guarding him just couldn’t keep up with him. I even heard one child exclaim it out loud! I remember one game where the ball was being tossed into the court from the outside line. By the time, the ball had been tossed to the first player and he was turning to pass it, my son had already circled around behind the rest of the opposing team and was getting set up for a pass.

I would also like to mention that coaches Mike and Ed did a great job leading the team. They pushed the children to learn and to grow but they did it in such a way that was always respectful.

Sitting on the sidelines for a few of the practises, their motivation even made me want to start playing and do my best. Laughingly, I know that those young boys would’ve mopped the floor with me and my rusty b-ball skills. Not only were these boys being taught to play better basketball but they were also being taught to respect each other and the teams and schools that they played; something that I feel is very lacking in the world today but can make such a difference in our daily interactions with each other.

So now, with the close of his basketball season, my son’s eyes begin to turn towards the season of soccer. Thankfully, we have a bit of a break before Daddy has to don his chauffer’s cap and drive the little ones to their soccer games. Sigh, a Daddy’s wheels rarely rest and his hands get sore from so much clapping.

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

24

March 2018

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

New Thrift Store Puts Community First

By Marianne Curtis On March 5, a new type of second hand store opened its doors in Steinbach. Known as Local Matters, the 1,600 square foot community owned and operated thrift store is filling up fast with donated items. Once sold, the money raised goes to support local programs and services.

The store evolved from an idea

by Chris Giesbrecht, who has run the Community Market in Steinbach for the past two summers.

He explained that over the past few years, he has seen a growing need within the region for an affordable thrift store.

“We have been hearing complaints for a while that pricing at other thrift stores is no longer affordable,” Giesbrecht explained.

“We decided to open a store that sells affordable items, to raise money for local programs and services.”

With that idea in mind, a board of directors was formed and nonprofit status was applied for.

“There is such a need in the southeast and we want people to have an opportunity to give locally and receive locally,” said Giesbrecht. “We want to get behind things we believe in and this is something that has meaning.

We want to get the community involved in treating our local needy with dignity and respect.”

The idea behind the operation is that community donations are

Chris Giesbrecht, Manager of Local Matters is excited to bring a new concept of second hand stores to the region.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

collected and items are priced and sold in the store. Money raised from the sale of the items is slated to support local people who need help.

“We want to be there for the people who need us and our services,” Giesbrecht added. For example, if someone loses their home in a fire, they will be able to either pick up items they need from the store, at no cost, or they may receive a donation raised from items sold in the store.

To ensure the ongoing success, Local Matters invites people to bring in donations of clothing, small appliances, toys, shoes and other items except large furniture and appliances. The current space is 1,600 square feet and filling up fast. Items can be brought to the store during regular hours or left in a bin outside the building.

“At this time, we can accept everything except large furniture and appliances,” Giesbrecht invited.

Anyone looking to make a donation can drop off clothing, house wares, tools, and other items at 121 Acres Drive just off of Industrial Rd. The current hours of operation are set at Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm, Friday until 6 pm and Saturday 10 am to 4 pm.