Dawson Trail Dispatch April 2016

Landmark Dancer Heads to Circus School An eleven-year-old dancer from Landmark will be spending her summer dancing in Montreal in the National Circus School summer camp program.

After outstanding performances at Showcase, Thunderstruck, and 5678 Showtime, Alexis Gaudette’s extraordinary talent saw her being named 12 & Under Dancer of the Year.

Alexis stood out to the judges and earned an invite to tour the Cirque du Soleil headquarters in Montreal.

While in Montreal, she will spend the summer training at the National Circus School.

She has also earned herself a Paris Dance Tour Scholarship Gaudette has been dancing competitively for three years. She dances sixteen hours a week in Tap, Acro, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, and Stage. Not only is she learning to dance, she is learning skills in nutrition, sewing, time management, public performances, being independent and a team player, the value of a dollar, dedication, perseverance, discipline, scheduling, dealing with constructive criticism, Eleven-year-old Alexis Gaudette of Landmark has earned a scholarship to attend dance school in Montreal and communication and body language. a Paris Dance Tour Scholarship.

Celebrating 100 Years in Style On March 5, over two hundred people came out to help Winona (Nomie) Thompson and the community celebrate her 100th birthday.

A special celebration was held in conjunction with the Spraguue and District Historical Museum’s annual dinner.

The event featured live entertainment from various community members, who took turns taking the stage to perform for the crowd.

Winona (Nomie) Thompson officially celebrated her 100th birthday on March 2.

Candidate Countdown to Spring Election

By Marianne Curtis The entire country was stunned last fall when the Trudeau government toppled the Harper government.

With a provincial election only a few short weeks away, voters are the decision makers on what path the province takes.

Currently, the polls suggest that when the 41st provincial election takes place on April 19, the political tide could turn from orange to blue or red.

With no incumbent MLA running all eyes will be on Dawson Trail, where earlier in March, Ron Lemieux announced his retirement after seventeen years as MLA and cabinet minister. A few weeks later, Roxane Dupuis, a young mother from Ste. Anne was nominated as his successor.

“I know I have big shoes to fill and I plan to do everything I can over the next few weeks to prove that I have what it takes to continue to do great things for this riding,” said Dupuis. “And I know that the NDP has not always gotten it right. In 2016, it’s still the right party for all Manitobans.”

Manitoba Liberal candidate Terry Hayward is ready for anything. Last fall, he ran against Ted Falk in the federal election. When the ballots were, counted Hayward would have easily taken the lead if Steinbach had not been part of the final numbers. “People don’t really care about what level of government you are in; they expect services and they expect things to be done,” said Hayward. “I am prepared to be Dawson Trail’s advocate either in government or in opposition.”

PC Candidate Bob Lagasse is running to win. In the past, he has admitted to joining the race to beat Lemieux in the polls. “I was prepared to run against him and he would have been a formidable opponent as the sitting MLA,” Lagasse said. “When we’re at the door, often we hear the words definitely not NDP. This election is about trust and the NDP Government broke that trust.”

Manitoba Party (MP) Candidate David Sutherland knows that well. After failing to gain support for his bid as the PC candidate for Dawson Trail, he cancelled his party membership and joined the Manitoba Party.

“Manitoban’s are looking forward to giving the ruling NDP the boot it so richly deserves,” stated Sutherland.

“However the fly in the ointment, as I can attest to after two years of door knocking in Dawson Trail, is the lack of trust in the Conservatives.”

In Steinbach, Kelvin Goertzen was very busy campaigning locally and helping other candidates in other constituencies. “I think the people need to focus on trust

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Candidates continued...

Continued from page 1 for this campaign and determine who it is that they trust in this election,” Goertzen said. “Mr. Selinger, we think, broke the trust with Manitobans very early on when he decided not to keep his promise not to raise taxes. We’ve seen other issues of trust come up about not balancing the budget, not moving towards a balanced budget.”

In La Verendrye, Dennis Smook, incumbent PC candidate said the issues in the riding are similar this election to what they were in 2011.

Should a conservative government win that could change drastically.

“One of the key issues in 2011, the same thing as now, is cell phone

service in southeastern Manitoba.

It has a lot to do with safety and it has a lot to do with economic development,” Smook stated. “The NDP also did not keep their promise to re-open the Emergency Room at the Vita Hospital.”

Smook is being challenged by Echo Asher (NDP), Bill Paulishyn (LIB) and Janine Gibson (GPM).

In Emerson, Cliff Graydon (PC) is vying for his third term as MLA and he believes the PC party is the only one that can serve all Manitobans.

“We’re the only party that has 57 candidates on the ground,” Graydon said. “Probably one of the best teams that has been put together.

We’re planning on giving all Manitobans the opportunity to

support us and change for the better.”

He is being challenged by Alanna Jones, a young mother from St. Malo, who said this is her first foray into politics and she is excited about the opportunity to represent the NDP. Also vying for the seal is Loren Braul (LIB), a lawyer from Altona who does not “Want anyone to feel like their vote is being taken for granted.”

“The NDP may feel they can’t win, the PCs may feel they can’t lose.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a very robust political process in the area and that has translated into a very low voter turnout, around forty-four per cent in the last election,” Braul told media.

Morris MLA Shannon Martin (PC)

has been challenged by John Falk (LIB) and Mohamed Alli (NDP).

Martin said he thinks the people of Manitoba are looking for a government that will respect them as individuals and respect them as taxpayers.

Liberal candidate John Falk believes the Federal election results show that people were tired of the status quo and wanted change. “I feel this has carried over to this election,” Falk added. “There seems to be a lot of frustration with the current government and many are looking at the Manitoba Liberal Party as a very viable, competent and positive option for the current government and the official opposition.”

Voters head to the polls on April 19. Polls are open from 7 am to 8 pm.

Voters can vote earlier in advance voting that takes place Saturday,

Dawson Trail Candidates

April 9 to Saturday, April 16, from 8 am to 8 pm Monday to Saturday and noon to 6 pm Sunday. You can vote at any advance voting location in the province.

An eligible voter must be a Canadian Citizen, 18 years of age on or before Election Day and have resided in Manitoba at least 6 months immediately before Election Day. If you are not on the voter list just bring your government issued photo identification, or two other documents with your name, and sign an oath.

Dawson Trail All Candidate Forum Dawson Trail voters are invited to meet their candidates in an all candidates forum.

All four Dawson Trail candidates are expected to participate including Terry Hayward (LIB), David Sutherland (MP), Roxane Dupuis (NDP) and Bob Lagasse (PC).

The All Candidate Forum is taking place April 12 at the TransCanada Centre in Ile des Chenes, starting at 7 pm.

Roxane Dupuis (NDP)

Terry Hayward (LIB)

Bob Lagasse (PC)

David Sutherland (MP)

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Election 2016 Emerson Candidates

Loren Braul (LIB)

Cliff Graydon (PC)

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Niverville Woman Named “Mompreneur”

Alanna Jones (NDP)

La Verendrye Candidates

Colleen Dyck, from Niverville was named Canada’s Mompreneur® of the Year.

By Marianne Curtis Janine Gibson (GPM)

Echo Asher (NDP)

Dennis Smook (PC) Bill Paulishyn (LIB) - photo unavailable

Morris Candidates

Mohamed Alli (NDP)

John Falk (LIB)

Shannon Martin (PC)

Steinbach Candidates

On March 5, the owner of a Niverville business was named this year’s winner of The Mompreneur® Awards.

Colleen Dyck, owner of GORP Clean Energy Bar of Niverville, Manitoba has been named the winner of this year’s Mompreneur® Award of Excellence - Canada’s Mompreneur® of the Year.

“GORP started as a need in my own life for a convenient source of whole food,” explained Dyck. ‘It then morphed into a passion to infuse adventure in my life, which turned into a desire to inspire others on their individual journeys to find health, adventure & purpose.”

Dyck created the GORP Clean Energy Bar, which is 100% natural.

“We provide natural, convenient, real food for people to fuel their bodies,” Dyck added. “We want to inspire people to find adventure and embrace healthy living... the philosophy being that if you help people take care of themselves they can take care of others!”

The Mompreneur® Awards are sponsored by the Mompreneur Showcase Group Inc. and ParentsCanada Magazine. Every year The Mompreneur® Awards get bigger and recognition gets more renowned as the achievements and contributions of women and their businesses grow in Canada. This year two new awards were added to include women across all areas of business. There were 124 nominees this year, who were eventually narrowed down to a top twenty.

The winner was chosen based on a select set of criteria for each award, including a track record of success, product innovation of business idea, growth potential and scalability, revenue, inspiration to others and impact on the community.

Cindy Grenier of L’Immobilière de St Pierre Realty Ltée in St PierreJolys was a finalist for the 2016 Mompreneur® Award of Merit.

CN Recovers Stranded Snowmobiler Kelvin Goertzen (PC)

Kathleen McCallum (NDP)

Dakota Young-Brown (LIB)

April 19

On March 6 shortly before 9 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a report from a CN Rail conductor advising he had passed a female who appeared to have rolled her snowmobile southeast of Marchand.

Police attended the area and obtained information from another snowmobile rider who advised the two riders had become separated on the trail around 8:30 pm. Police immediately initiated a search on foot and snowmobile based on the information provided by the conductor and other rider.

Police liaised with CN rail who advised another train would be in the area an hour from the initial call at which time police would try to get a more exact location for the female.

At approximately 11:20 pm, CN dispatch advised they had located the female and transported her back to Sandilands, the female was uninjured.

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Help for Charities – Your Input Needed As I mentioned in last months’ column, I recently introduced a Private Members Bill in Parliament entitled The Fairness in Charitable Gifts Act (Bill C-239).

Currently, federal tax credits for political contributions far exceed the federal tax credits for donations to other registered charities in Canada.

That’s just not right. This bill would level the playing field by RAISING the federal donation tax credit for donations to registered Canadian charities.

Canadian charities, both secular and faith-based, deliver critical social support services to communities. However, the fact remains, Canadian charities are faced with an aging and ever declining donor base. The percentage of tax filers claiming charitable donations has fallen from almost 30% to just over 20% over the past 25 years. This is a very concerning trend, but together we can work to reverse it.

If passed, the Fairness in Charitable Gifts Act will help empower charities to take on a greater role as a result of the additional donations generated from the new tax incentives.

If you believe that charities play a vital role in our communities and would like to see them strengthened, please take just one minute out of your busy day to let the federal party leaders know that you are supportive of Bill C-239, the Fairness in Charitable Gifts Act. Green Party leader Elizabeth May has already promised her support.

Every letter, call or email makes a big impact.

Here is their contact information: Rt. Hon Justin Trudeau House of Commons Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0A6 Manitoba farm families are at the heart of our rural communities.

With the release of the federal budget on March 22 many families Telephone: 613-995-0253 While it is unfortunate that the Liberal government is taking away may be wondering how they will be impacted. justin.trudeau@parl.gc.ca; important tax relief initiatives from Canadian families and small First of all, the Liberal government is leaving families on the hook businesses, there are some encouraging aspects of the budget, which are for their $30 billion deficit. The Liberals campaigned on a promise to Hon. Thomas Mulcair worth mentioning. Low-income families will benefit from an increase in limit the deficit to $10 billion, signifying another broken promise and House of Commons the child tax credit. That said, only some families will benefit from these leaving our children and grandchildren with the burden of an Ottawa, Ontario changes while others will be completely left out. increased debt load. And that’s just in year one. According to their K1A 0A6 Furthermore, the budget aims to increase EI benefits and to reduce the own projections, the Liberal government won’t be able to balance the Telephone: 613-947-0867 wait time for people facing unemployment. Unfortunately, this is not budget on the timeline they promised either. In order to pay for its thomas.mulcair@parl.gc.ca; accompanied by any plan whatsoever to create jobs, and I am certain increased spending, the Liberal government is ending the Children’s that Canadians would sooner choose a good job over being on EI Fitness Tax Credit, the Children’s Art Tax Credit, and tax credits for Hon. Rona Ambrose post-secondary education and textbooks. Income splitting for families benefits.

House of Commons The Liberal budget will not stimulate the economy or create jobs and has also been stripped away.

Ottawa, Ontario taxes are on the way up. As the Member of Parliament for Provencher, I Small businesses can’t expect tax relief either. The budget revealed Canada recognize the impact this budget will have on our communities and I will that the Liberals have walked away from a campaign promise to K1A 0A6 reduce the small business tax rate from 11% to 9%. In fact, the higher continue to stand up for families, farmers, and small businesses at every Telephone: 613-996-9778 tax credit introduced by our previous Conservative government won’t opportunity. rona.ambrose@parl.gc.ca You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204-326be renewed by the Liberals either, leaving small businesses with a 9889. You may also write my office at 76 PTH 12 N, Steinbach, MB R5G greater tax burden.

1T4, e-mail me at ted.falk.c1@parl.gc.ca or visit my website at As for the agricultural sector, I am troubled by the fact that farmers tedfalk.ca. go completely unmentioned in the budget. Here in southeastern

Responding to the Budget

In Budget 2016, We Take the Lead Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.

The Dawson Trail Dispatch is a monthly newspaper distributed free of charge to 50 Southeastern Manitoba communities.

Published by: One One Consultants Inc. Box 308, Richer, MB R0E 1S0 Phone: (204) 422-8548 Fax: (204) 422-9768 Dan Guetre, Managing Editor One One Consultants Inc., Publisher News Writers: Marianne Curtis and Dan Guetre Columnists: Lee Guetre, Peter Friesen, Anni Markmann, Peter Martens, Dave Millar Production/Design: Dan Guetre, Myriam Dyck Copy Editing: Monica Guetre Advertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre

For Advertising Call: Phone: (204) 422-8548 Fax: (204) 422-9768 Email: sales@dawsontrail.ca Subscriptions: $29.95 annually plus GST for Canadian Subscriptions. $52.95 annually for International Subscriptions

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At first glance, the numbers are shocking, at second glance, the shock persists in many people, but we have been stuck on the Harper short-term pain for so long that we have to remember the Canadian economy is a two trillion dollar deal and the 29.4 billion deficit expands to 113 billion to the end of this government’s term. This will essentially keep the GDP to debt ratio to 32%.

The Harper government Budget deficit of 2008 was greater and the following eight years produced eight more deficits. And in all those years, oil was at 80 or 90 dollars a barrel. It would have been a good time to expand the economy but where did the money go, not even a foot of new pipeline.

The main points of the platform are first, the child benefit program with $6,400 for children to age 6 and $5,400 per child from 7 - 18 diminishing to zero when the family’s income reaches 190,000. EI changes that make it easier to qualify for benefits goes together with bigger than expected cuts in premiums coming in January 2017. The demographic of this program will see child poverty go down and this new found money feeding the retail economy.

Infrastructure spending of 120 million over 10 years focusing on public transit, water waste management and specialty housing inventory. To broaden the economy, infrastructure needs to happen first. The green economy also needs a kick-start if it is to be relevant. I have a feeling our destiny of stormy and wet is to be part of the future and will be much more telling on our grandchildren than debt of 32% of GDP ratio ever will.

Indigenous people have $8.4 billion from the budget over five years to fix a multitude of deficiencies which will prove challenging to say the least.

There are many other smaller but just as important initiatives, but this budget has one very important omission. Nothing is mentioned about when or how to revert back to a balanced budget. The ambiguity of this omission is deliberate.

The budget was based on a low economic performance with one-half of a percent higher than forecasted growth in the economy. If more happens such as when the oil patch starts to increase employment, the Minister of Finance will look like a genius.

This is the budget gospel according to Paul Martin, tried and true. It will help to put everything in a better perspective if we remember that the Canadian economy is a two trillion dollar endeavour and growing.

We have a government, which has shown a desire to be a player. Indeed, take the lead. If broadening the economy is desired it will take Government will, and this government is bold. The trickle down economy died with President Reagan and morphed into searching for tax havens for the “money to hide” class.

The Canadian Conservative adage of short-term pain for long-term gain has just been de-bunked. The pain was constant to the middle class and the need for tax-sheltered havens constant for the privileged class.

The prime indicator for the budget now is the value and behaviour of the Canadian dollar, it doesn’t seem overly concerned with the budget, and instead it is fairly pleased with its newfound environment.

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Bethesda Front Entrance Closed Until Further Notice

By Marianne Curtis For over a year, entering the regions largest hospital was a challenge for many, especially those with disabilities. On March 28, the front entrance of the Bethesda Regional Health Care Centre was closed for demolition and construction until further notice.

According to Southern Health, the entrance was officially closed for construction on March 27. During construction, alternate entrances and exits will be available to the public.

Patients can get into the facility through the CancerCare Manitoba entrance on Henry Street, twenty-four hours a day. The front entrance to the Bethesda Place personal care home serves as an alternate option during the hours of 6:30 am to 9 pm.

Signs will be posted to help users find their way and staff is available to help with directions at any time.

“While we will keep interruptions to a minimum, we apologize for any inconvenience,” stated a Southern Health representative. “We will continue to communicate as the project progresses.”

Penn-Co Construction from Blumenort was awarded the contract, for an undisclosed amount of funds. Due to the election, funding particulars cannot be released.

When the project is completed, there will be direct ground level access to the site at both the emergency department and the main entrances of the Bethesda Regional Health Centre will be in place. This will provide ease of patient and visitor movement into and throughout the building. The region is partnering with Manitoba Health, Healthy Living and Seniors to complete the project.

The new entrance will add 2,045 square feet to the facility and include a new full-sized, pass-through elevator at the main entrance; enclosed stairs with an enclosed waiting space as well as an enclosed walkway link between the emergency department and the main hospital entrance. It also includes an external canopy for weather protection for drop-off and pick-up of patients, as well as improved signage and security improvements.

The reconstruction project is expected to be complete in October.

The front entrance of the Bethesda Regional Health Care Centre has already cost $124,500 when it was first built two years ago.

Borderland SD Cancels Ukrainian Language Program in Vita

By Marianne Curtis A group of parents whose children attend Shevchenko School in Vita are not giving up on the fight to bring a Ukrainian language program back into the school, despite a school board decision to cancel the program.

For the past three years, the Ukrainian Language Program Advisory Council (TULPAC) has been trying to get a Ukrainian Class in the Shevchenko School, in Vita. TULPAC secretary Angie Chubaty, said the group has been fighting for the program since the spring of 2013.

“In dealing with the School initially, we got nowhere per say as the Principal wanted the class to be run by volunteers,” said Chubaty. “So, the group then surveyed the community, and 65 students were interested in taking Ukrainian. In December 2014, Borderland School Division agreed to a one year pilot program, during lunch, with a minimum of 10 students for the 2015/2016 school year, grades 4-8 only.”

“We have been recently informed that the Board of Trustees made a difficult decision not to continue with offering the Ukrainian Language option, in the future,” said Chubaty. “We are disappointed to say the least, we were set up to fail from the beginning, yet the students enrolled currently have met and are continuing to meet the Boards Criteria.”

Chubaty said students are enjoying the class, and love their teacher. “Our concerns have always been, why during lunch? Yet the students continue to go to class and enjoy what they are learning, writing, reading,” Chubaty continued. “We feel the Board’s decision is vague, inappropriate and is in violation to their Mission Statement.”

TULPAC remains motivated to fight for the program because Vita is a Ukrainian based community, and the home of one of the top Ukrainian Dance Clubs in Manitoba. “Students of non-Ukrainian background are interested in the course yet we seem to get nowhere,” Chubaty added. “We have tried every avenue possible to try to get ‘a class’ in the schedule of Shevchenko. Every time we would come forward, the door was closed. We are at a loss.”

Having a Ukrainian program at Shevchenko School is not a new initiative. Until 1991, certain classes were offered to students in both English and Ukrainian similar to how other school divisions in the area offer French or German.

Compost Project Launched in Ritchot Spring is around the corner and to celebrate, the RM of Ritchot is offering residents a deal by absorbing half of the costs of backyard compost bins.

The Municipality is also collaborating with Ecole St. Adolphe, Ste-Agathe, and IDC Immersion to host a composting program. A teacher and class in each school will assist with the collection of the compost to be processed on site at the school in tumblers provided by the Municipality for safe and odour-free composting.

“We really want to encourage composting in our communities and what better way than by getting students involved,” said RM of Ritchot Councillor Ernie Dumaine.

To purchase a bin at a cost of $40 each, leave your name and phone number at 204-883-2293 or email info@ritchot.com. Council reminds residents that bins are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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April 2016

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Court Ruling Reduces Senators’ Payback to Tax Payers Check out all programs, events and purchase tickets online steinbachartscouncil.ca call 204-346-1077.

Annual Gala – On Friday May 6 – Reserve your table Celebrate the Arts in Shades of White!

Fundraising Gala - A Fine Night for Fine Attire…in whatever shade of white you desire with special entertainment, delicious food, an evening of dance, and fun!

And look what’s NEW this year!

One of the 50 best photographs in the world by internationally recognized photographer, DENNIS FAST is up for auction, with a chance to place a RESERVE BID in advance!

LIVE PAINTING by Signature Artist, DAYLON BROWN! The signature piece by this talented artist will be created in front of your eyes during the evening and go to the highest bidder at our traditional Fine Art Auction.

A one-of-a-kind CUSTOM PAINTING created exclusively for the highest bidder by artist, MELANIE PENNER! Additional Artists featured at this year’s Fine Art Auction include well-known artists Amanda Von Riesen, Marilyn Pankratz and Don Hoeppner.

Tickets on sale now for mainstage@home! This fundraiser for the performing arts centre will feature many of your local favourite artists on Thursday, April 28 at 7:30 pm. No admission – accepting donations for tax receipts.

Reach for the Stars The Backyard Theatre Company’s Final Production – On Wednesday, April 20 at 6:30 pm at SRSS Theatre. Call 204-346-1077 for tickets. Students $5, Adults $9, Family Special 4 for $24.

Company’s Coming- A family dinner has some unexpected, or rather, unidentified guests. Based off the children’s book of the same name by Arthur Yorinks.

The Little Martians - A space-themed twist on a beloved children’s story.

Ground Control to Major Tom - An astronaut’s brave journey into the depth’s of space. Don’t forget to take your protein pills.

Space Voyage - Captain Kate leads the crew into bold new frontiers. Live Well and Succeed.

Spring Classes Cake X-Travaganza – Workshop on Saturday, April 9. Learn the basics of cake decorating including piping, sculpting, working with fondant, gum paste and more!

Pilates with Kimberley Koop – From Monday, April 11 – Thursday, June 9. Pilates Core Basic, Pilates on the Ball, Power Pilates and Foam Roller Pilates.

Adults – Beginner Watercolour – From Thursday, April 7 – Thursday, May 26.

Early Bird Registrations Summer Arts Day Camps Early Bird Registration - Join us this summer for our camps filled with music, dance, drama, visual arts, field trips, community outings, recreation and more!

Two Camps – Ages 5 - 8 and Ages 9 - 12. Sign up from Monday, April 11 – Monday, May 9 – Receive - 10% Off. Arts4Tots Preschool Program Early Bird Registration - Why are we unique? The most creative way to learn for ages 3 - 5 with specialists in dance, music, drama and visual arts! Sign up from Monday, April 4 – Friday, April 29 – Receive $50 Off. The Backyard Theatre Company Early Bird Registration - We want you! Experience scripts, improv, character building, perform on stage and build your confidence! Ages 5 – 17. Sign up from Tuesday, April 5 – Tuesday, Apr 26 - Receive 15% Off. Lease beautiful Local Art – for your Home or Business - By local artists. Change the look of your home or office - we can customize something just for you! Come and check out many pieces at our Centre. We will come in to install and remove it – you just enjoy it! And support your local artists at the same time.

Performers and Visual Artists! - We are now taking applications for the KR Barkman Concerts in the Park series. These are free concerts in KR Barkman Park on Main Street, proudly sponsored

by Barkman Concrete Foundation.

Join the Creative Youth Council! - The next Turnip the Music! event is Friday, May 13 at Randolph garage - call to join in the fun!

Other events include the Summer in the City Festival youth zone.

Communications/Marketing Co-ordinator - 35 hrs/wk, 45 wks/ yr, with experience; graphic design, web and social media skills an asset. Organized, able to juggle many tasks in fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines. Send resume to director@steinbachartscouncil.ca.

Volunteers needed for Summer in the City Artist Tent - fun and creativity guaranteed!

Hall Gallery Art Exhibit The Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit - Opening ceremony on Friday, April 15, at 7 pm.

New! Aboriginal Culture Group Aboriginal Community and SAC will partner to run classes learning their culture, art, languages, and food. Call for more details.

By Marianne Curtis The former Supreme Court Justice who reviewed last year’s Auditor General’s report, which revealed that thirty senators including Senator Don Plett has reduced the amount of money that must be paid back.

The reduction was made by former Supreme Court Justice, Ian Binnie, who was appointed to re-examine findings made last year by the Auditor General, Michael Ferguson. Because of his findings, Binnie reduced the combined amount initially owed by 14 senators by half.

While the final amounts that must be repaid by three of the 14 remain virtually unchanged after Binnie’s report was released, many others saw significant reductions in the amounts they owe. Nine have since repaid. The remaining 21 are still on the hook for amounts that, after the readjustment

by Binnie, range from $404.45 in the case of Senator Plett to $176,014 in the

Blue Jays Super Camp Comes to Ile Des Chenes Baseball players looking for a one of a kind experience or a little more practice are being offered a lifetime experience to train with several of the Blue Jays greats. On July 20 and 21, one of fourteen Blue Jays Honda Super Camps is taking place in Ile Des Chenes, hosted by Seine River Minor Ball.

According to Alex Grenier, Seine River Minor Ball President, he got the idea when he noticed that the Blue Jays were looking for a Manitoba location to host the super camp. “So I applied to the Blue Jays to host it here in Ile des Chenes,” Grenier confirmed.

Throughout the summer, the Blue Jays Baseball Academy will partner with Baseball Canada and Little League Canada to bring amateur players to the Blue Jays Honda Super Camps. The baseball instructional camp promises players ages 9 - 16 the ultimate Major League experience. Those signing up for the Iles Des Chenes camp will learn skills and techniques from major league all-stars, including Duane Ward, Devon White, Lloyd Moseby and Roberto Alomar.

The training camps are open to both male and female players.

The Blue Jays Honda Super Camp is taking place July 20 and 21 at Grenier Field, in Ile des Chenes’s Optimist Park.

Space is limited, early registration is encouraged at bluejays.com/camps.

On the afternoon of the first day there will also be the T12 tryouts for players 18 and under for the right to play on the Prairie Team in a national tournament later in the year at the Rogers Centre. Registration for the T12 camp can be made at the same Blue Jays’ website.

case of retired Senator Rod Zimmer.

According to the initial Auditor General’s report, Plett had already repaid $2,975 out of $4,095 in ineligible travel expenses. However, he contested owing the remaining $1,120. Plett admitted to filing 103 travel expense forms, adding he was worried based on the sheer volume of claims that there could be some human error at play. “We’re all human, my staff is human, I’m human,” he said, adding he never once wilfully took any money that didn’t belong to him.

The balance Plett contested originated from two stopovers in Montreal that he took while travelling to Ottawa from Winnipeg.

He claims to have met with “stakeholders on Senate matters” before continuing to Ottawa.

However, the auditors determined there was not enough proof to substantiate that claim.

Binnie’s findings came on the heels

of a lengthy expense scandal that saw Senator Mike Duffy charged with 31 offences including fraud and breach of trust. A judge is set to rule in his case next month.

Ferguson said in a statement that he stands by his report of last year and remains convinced that the Senate needs to transform the way expenses are overseen and managed. His examination ended with 30 Senators being cited for abuse of the public purse, either by wasting taxpayers’ money or by getting the public to pick up their personal expenses.

Senators who owe money have 30 days to pay before the Senate will begin legal action for the amounts owing.

The RCMP has also dropped its investigation of 24 out of the 30 senators whose expenses were found by the Auditor General to be wrongly charged.

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Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

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Robb Nash Takes His Message of Hope to Cross Lake Nash added that the visit was also an opportunity to change the perception of what a reserve is really like. “I think the thing that frustrates me most on this tour, is that everyone has a picture in their mind of what a reserve looks like because the media often shows pictures and footage from rundown, abandoned houses from some of the toughest reserves they have seen,” Nash explained.

“But today was an example of a reserve that had nice homes, paved roads, a great school with very caring leadership, thoughtful school staff and councillors.”

Nash said the community did a great job by calling a State of Emergency to get some support and bring attention to the issue but it should not have gotten to that point.

“I’m glad that mental health is finally starting to get some attention, but if you compare Mental Health to how the country reacted when H1N1 or SARS hit us, we still have a long way to go! I think there is a responsibility on our government, our media, the Aboriginal leaders and our country, to make sure this is not just going be the story of the month!” Nash concluded.

Sprague Loses ATM Kleefeld musician Robb Nash takes a selfie with students from Pimicikamak (Cross Lake) during a special stop on his tour after a state of emergency was called due to a rash of recent suicides.

By Marianne Curtis A Kleefeld musician who uses music to tackle difficult issues like bullying, addiction and suicide brought his message of hope and survival to Pimicikamak, Earlier in March, Pimicikamak (Cross Lake) Cree First Nation, declared a state of emergency after several suicides in the community. Since December, six people have taken their lives, four of them high school students.

Robb Nash, who does concerts for teens on tough issues, visited the community with his band Live on Arrival. “We just got flooded with emails and calls. The reserve was contacting different people

connected to us, like Perimeter Airlines and people within the government, saying, ‘Is there a way we can get Robb up?’” said Nash. “I guess they’ve spoken to other reserves and heard about the work we do when we go up.”

For the past few years, Nash has been touring the country and sharing his inspiring story with junior high and high school students. Over the years, he has spoken to over 1 million students, about suicide prevention and bullying, and even received over four hundred and sixty suicide notes from students who changed their minds.

“Our whole thing is we go into schools, reserves, prisons. We put on concerts and try to get the

conversation started,” said Nash.

“We show videos of families that have gone through similar tragedies, and we’ll tell a story, and then we’ll play a song about it.”

Nash believes he was successful in getting his message through to a few of the students of Cross Lake.

“While hanging out after the show we did for three schools, we got handed nine suicide notes from kids planning to take their lives. I’ve got a pocket full of razors from those who vowed to stop cutting,” Nash recalled. “The staff and councillors were great as they watched closely so they can make sure to follow up with them because we all know that getting rid of their suicide notes is just the first step.”

On March 14, residents in Sprague lost the community’s only ATM machine.

According to Access Credit Union, the maintenance contract for the Sprague ATM was about to expire, so some tough decisions had to be made.

“Recognizing the impact that this would have on our members and nonmembers in Sprague, we evaluated several different options for this ATM including replacement with a full renovation, or partial renovation or replacing the ATM with a different type of unit that would only dispense cash,” stated a spokesperson for the Access Credit Union. “Based on the low volume of transactions conducted through the ATM, as well as the most cost associated with many of the options we had available to us, the decision was made to remove the ATM.” Once the ATM is removed, there are no plans on replacing the machine. The removal of the ATM does not mean that the Sprague branch of the credit union is closing. “We have no intention of closing Sprague branch,” assured the board in a public notice. However, in consideration to the cost and low volumes of transactions conducted at the ATM, we will not be replacing the ATM.” The next closest Access Credit Union Branch with an ATM machine is located in Vita.

8

April 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Spring Show Focuses on Renewable Energy

By Marianne Curtis On April 16, Steinbach’s South Eastman Transition Initiative is gathering local experts and vendors at the Mennonite Heritage Village to promote Renewable Energy in Manitoba for the Southeast Manitoba Renewable Energy Show.

The event will allow members of the public one-on-one access to professional expertise in geothermal, solar, wood and biomass, wind power and more.

Wade Wiebe, Event Coordinator for South Eastman Transition Initiative said this is all about local knowledge. “This is a non-profit event with the goal of educating the public about renewable energy,” said Wiebe. “This event is uniquely tailored to our Southeast Manitoba context. It provides a much-needed link between general information available online and hands-on local knowledge.”

Attendees can tour booths of local vendors, enjoy a complimentary snack and beverage, and take in speakers who will discuss Manitoba’s path to a sustainable and resilient future. “From low-cost and DIY, to any scale of home project, to global economics and development, all interests will be covered,” Wiebe added.

Guest speakers include Bruce Duggan, Director of Buller Centre for Business, Providence University College; Daniel Lepp Friesen, Owner of DLF Consulting and energy and management consulting services, Curt Hull with Climate Change Connection, Justin Phillips, President of Sycamore Energy and MB Centre of Excellence for Sustainability & Green Technology, Lorena Mitchell President of EvolveGreen.ca with expertise in supply, design and installation of renewable energy systems and Eric Bjornson Co-founder of Sundial Building Performance, a residential building retrofit and building

Internet Improvement For roughly the last seven years, my wife and I have been customers of a certain internet company that I’ll call “Service X”. During those years as loyal customers, we found many stretches of good service mixed with a great many disappointing and upsetting times. Within the first month of setup we were already calling in with issues and over the years we dealt with such things as long wait times when calling in, stretches where we had bad to no connection and slow downs several times a day (which we bore with silence).

Once we were even told that we had a virus and that was why our internet wasn’t working properly (turns out the technician that finally came down after several calls merely changed to a different module on their tower and everything was good once again).

As the years progressed and we were still loyal to “Service X,” we continued our love affair with our telephone and the on-hold music as we called in more and more frequently in an attempt to receive the service that we were paying for.

During one of our last calls into Technical Support we were told that no one in our area still works on the type of module that they were having us pay for and that we should switch to a more satellite type internet that merely costs more and from the sounds of things, doesn’t work that much better than what we had. Deciding that it was well passed time, we looked for other options and found another internet service provider (which I’ll refer to as “Service S”) that was now servicing our area. Having been hearing great things about “Service S”, we contacted them and in short order we were connected and enjoying the services, and speeds, to which we were paying for.

With this new and improved internet service, my wife and I have found that we can now watch Netflix and there is very little loading time and no, I repeat no, loading while the movie or TV show is in progress. I can also enjoy online gaming when the mood strikes.

Woohoo!!

There are two things I would like to mention about “Service X” and that is 1) they were better than dial-up and, 2) now that more people were switching away from them, my internet slow down times were less and the connection was improving. Maybe if I would have stayed on longer, my internet speed could’ve been blazingly fast because I’d be the only one using the tower.

I still have to shake my head when I remember calling in to cancel my service with “Service X” and how they tried to give me a free month of service and when I turned them down they tried to give me two months of free service and a ten-dollar discount on my next bill. You know, if they’d tried harder to provide better service while I was a customer then maybe my wife and I’d be still with them.

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

envelope specialist.

The South Eastman Transition Initiative exists to help facilitate a transition towards more sustainable lifestyles in southeastern Manitoba.

The movement brings people from a range of backgrounds to educate and build self-awareness through conversation, films, tours, presentations and workshops on topics related to sustainability.

Tickets are available online now at setimanitoba.org and children under age 12 are free.

Municipalities Begin Spring Burn Bans Despite a wet spring, which even forced several municipalities to declare local state of emergencies, other municipal councils have issued burn bans in anticipation of dryer weather.

The RM of Tache was the first municipality to implement a ban due to extremely dry conditions expected this spring. Several others, including the RM’s of Ritchot, Hanover and Ste. Anne followed suit.

Under the ban, no burning is permitted within municipal boundaries until further notice. This includes the use of fire pits and burn barrels. These measures are being implemented to increase life safety, alleviate potential damages to properties and to curb unnecessary fire protection costs,” stated RM of Tache Council. “The RM of Tache Fire Department experienced several grass fires in prior years and this restriction is intended to reduce fire incidents during the potentially dry conditions this spring.”

Persons found in contravention of the burn bans will be is subject to fines and in the event the fire department is called out to extinguish outdoor fires as a result of non-compliance, the municipality will assess all costs incurred to extinguish the fire to the property owner.

Fines, penalties and all other costs incurred are authorized and regulated by each municipality’s individual burning bylaws. If unsure if a ban is in place, contact your local town office for further confirmation.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Splash and Skate Parks Approved for Town of Ste. Anne The Town of Ste. Anne has committed to the construction of a new skate park and splash pad in 2016 by putting the projects in this year’s financial plan.

According to Town Council, there is already enough money raised towards the project for completion this year. “As per our vision and mission statements, to provide a welcoming, safe and health community… to ensure a multi-generational population through improved recreation opportunities and desired amenities we know that recreation is important to the health of families and communities,” said a statement issued by council. “With the support of the Provincial Government, the fundraising committee, and the receipt of other grants we are very positive that these projects can now become a reality.”

The new investments are not only expected to enhance recreation, but make it easier for kids and families in St. Anne and the surrounding area to stay active and have fun as well as encourage existing families to stay in the community and invite new families to explore the community, town council added.

The cost for the complete plan proposed by the consultants amounts to over $1 million dollars, which includes the skate park, splash pad, a sand garden, canoe-kayak launch, bridge and promenade.

“The total grants, fundraising to date and Town contributions may be enough to approach the local government on signing the contract to approve construction,” said council.

Council has agreed to the balance needed with the hopes of receiving government grants, donations and/or sponsorships. A resolution on the issue states that the town will also be responsible for any costs beyond any contracts signed with the province.

Tenders are expected to be released shortly.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Tools and Camping Gear Stolen Sometime between February 28 and March 6 a residence on Mckenzie Avenue in Steinbach was broken in to.

The culprit stole several items including tools and camping equipment.

If you have any information 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).

Mischief at City Hall On March 9, Steinbach RCMP received a report of mischief at City Hall in Steinbach. A BB sized hole was observed in one of the windows at this location. It is believed that the incident occurred overnight between March 8 and March 9.

If you have any information, 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).

Saskatchewan Accident Claims Local Truck Driver On March 7, a truck driver from Steinbach was killed in a head on collision along Highway 16, near Plunkett, Saskatchewan.

Forty-eight year old Stan Doerksen died when his semi truck and trailer were involved in a head on collision with another semi.

Doerksen was employed with Plett Trucking in Landmark at the time of his death. “Sometimes you are in the wrong place at the wrong time,” said Tim Plett, owner of Plett Trucking.

“He did everything perfectly right and I can’t say that enough.”

Saskatchewan RCMP said that driving conditions played a role in the accident. The other driver sustained minor injuries.

Doerksen leaves behind his wife Cari and two young children.

Culprit Steals Generator and Tools Between March 17 and March 21, culprit(s) broke into a fenced compound on Highway 1 in the RM of Reynolds and stole a Honda 5000 watt generator, serial number EANC1028046, tools and machinery equipment. The theft is estimated to be approximately $5,000.

If you have any information in regards to the above theft you are asked to contact the Sprague RCMP Detachment at 204-437-2041 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

April 2016

9

Niverville Teen Nominated for Province Lifts Boil Water Advisory in Women of Distinction Award IDC and St. Adolphe Danica Leigh Cuddleford, a grade 12 student from Niverville Collegiate has been named as one of fifty Women of Distinction Award Nominees slated to be honoured at the beginning of May. On March 30, the YMCAYWCA released their list of 50 Manitoban women who have been nominated for the 2016 Women of Distinction awards ceremony, which will be held on May 4 and hosted by Tina Keeper, a former member of the House of Commons, North of 60 actor, producer and social issue activist.

According to her official nomination, Cuddleford was nominated for her “outstanding contributions” to school and community.

Cuddleford is currently a Niverville Collegiate student council Vice President and volunteers at the Niverville nursing home. She also volunteers as a childcare worker at church, and a Sunday school teacher along with participating in a variety of extracurricular activities including volunteering as a tutor, as a member of an antitobacco club, and environmental group. She also took part in the Real World Homeless Situation project.

At of the end of January, the province is no longer reporting boil water advisories on private well communities.

In 2000, a boil water advisory was issued for Ile des Chenes and St. Adolphe after water quality testing found a number of wells throughout the community with high levels of bacteria. Some of the bacterial contamination was attributed to poorly constructed or maintained ground water wells and abandoned wells.

To address the advisory, the RM of Ritchot upgraded their public water system. Private well owners are encouraged to connect to the municipal water system if possible.

Although the boil water advisory on the remaining private wells has been removed, this does not mean that existing private wells are bacteria free. Water testing is the only way to ensure the safety of the water.

Resources are available to help homeowners assess well water risk factors and provide assistance for well maintenance. For more information visit manitoba.ca/ drinkingwater or call 204-945-5762.

Niverville Collegiate student Danica Cuddleford is one of fifty Women of Distinction Nominees for 2016.

Cuddleford is one of six graduating high school students nominated for the 2016 Prairie Award of Promise. The Prairie Award of Promise recognizes a graduating grade 12 student outside of Winnipeg who has demonstrated scholastic achievement and shows promise of becoming a Woman of Distinction.

If named as the finalist, she will receive a $2,000 scholarship.

10

April 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Teach Me to Pray Matthew 6:9-13... 9) In this manner, therefore, pray, Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10) Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11) Give us this day our daily bread. 12) And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. 13) And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. (NKJV) How important is prayer in our lives? Is it fair to say that as a Christian we should rate prayer as one of the most important priorities in the life of every believer as well as all peoples in our country? As Christians, we believe that prayer is even greater than many of the good works we do. If we make prayer an important part of our family life, we will surround our homes with a wall of protection that is stronger than the evil we encounter. Do you think that fathers and mothers should set the example in the home so that it becomes a house of prayer?

I wonder sometimes whether parents and fathers especially, know the importance of their role... When the children are very young, before they even start school, their character, and personalities have been shaped by the mother and father in the home. Our own memories of our childhood years, tell us that it is so. I can still remember the pain, the doubts and unhappy worries that I experienced. I often wondered if there was anybody that loved me. And I believe that young people ... and I mean the very young too... really want to know if they are loved. After all, just as we, older folks want to trust people we connect with, younger people search for someone or somebody that can be trusted and will try to understand them; and family prayer time can fill part of that need.

Consider the example of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew chapter 6. Here we have his disciples asking Christ to teach them how to pray. Jesus had set an example of the importance of prayer to his disciples because of his own need to pray to the Heavenly Father. Sensing this need, the disciples wanted Christ to fill the needs in their lives; and so he taught them... what we refer to as “The Lord’s Prayer”. This prayer involves the Heavenly Father in the affairs of a family that is united.

The Holy Spirit confirms to our soul and spirit, the love that comes down to us from the Heavenly Father; and our hearts and minds are strengthened by the love and patience we experience in this relationship. No other faith in the entire world that I know of conveys that kind of love and devotion between God and His children/family.

Just as Jesus taught his disciples to pray, I believe he expects us to teach one another in ways that are helpful. I have, over the years, learned a few ways to do just that. This small prayer guide might not be new to you, but to some it might be... Our hand has a thumb and four fingers. And you can say that each finger and thumb has a meaning...

Look at your thumb: it is the nearest to us; and it can remind us of those who are closest to us, sisters, brothers, parents, co-workers and many others that pop into your mind momentarily... The second finger: we use it for pointing; we must use wisdom when we point it at someone. I used to have a dog, and if I pointed my finger at him; that dog would get agitated, he did not like it one bit. I think he was trying to tell me, either point it somewhere else, or he would shorten it.

Maybe I must remember, when I point my finger, I should always point it with the idea to give credit to someone who has taught me something of value, those who have cared for us in hospitals, those who keep us safe... The third finger: this is an interesting one; it is after all the longest, or the tallest, and perhaps it should stand for all leaders, pastors, the church body and others that are special to us... Now the fourth finger: well we know that is the weakest one on our hand; having said that, maybe we should think of all the poor, all those who are distressed and in pain, all those who are suffering physically... That leaves us with the little finger.

It is the smallest and the least important; do you think it would be proper for us to say that it should stand for everybody...To God Be the Glory.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

April 2016

11

A New Heart Awaits You We have just come through the Easter holiday. I trust that no one overate at their family gatherings or their chocolate treats. But the real purpose of Easter is to celebrate the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. I John 2:2 tells us Christ died not just for a select few, but for the sins of the whole world. Because of Christ, we have access to forgiveness and a new heart.

When I was a young child, going to a one-room school in southern Ontario, our teacher had us put on special programs and the whole neighbourhood would be invited. On one such occasion, I recited a poem called Mary Had a Pig by Mike Bright (Cowboy Mike) that would seem appropriate to repeat at this time: Mary had a little pig and he was white as snow.

That is after he had a bath, as you of course might know.

Now Mary had an awful time to keep that piggy clean, For he was just the dirtiest pig that one has ever seen.

She’d wash him and she’d scrub him till he would squirm and squeal, As if he wanted her to know, it was an unfair deal.

Then in the green backyard, he’d play from morning until night.

Unless he’d happen to sneak out and loose him from sight.

Then when Mary would find him, he’d be blacker than ere before, So Mary would get the soap again and scrub the pig some more.

Poor Mary thought and wondered much what she could ever do, Until she figured out a plan and this, she carried through.

She took him to a doctor, who put the pig to sleep.

And then he took his heart right out, but not of course to keep.

And then he took a little lamb and took his heart out too, And put it in the little pig, before the piggy knew.

When little piggy did awake, he had no more desire, To wallow in the mud again or ever in the mire.

But try as hard as ere he could, he never understood, How such a pig as once he was could ever be so good.

So you see boys and girls, we need a new heart too.

Just like the little piggy did, the old will never do.

If you’d receive a brand new heart, well here is how you may, Accept God’s Son as Saviour now, and let Him in today.

If you are reading this article and you don’t have a new heart yet from Jesus Christ, He would love to give you one today. First, admit you are a sinner, confess that sin to Him and trust in His shed blood to save you.

He will take your old heart away and give you a new heart with new desires and new hope, just like that little piggy.

God bless you as you seek Him and let Him work His work in your life.

Pat Porter Active Living Centre offers programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for older adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come and pay us a visit and consider participating in some of our programs.

For more information drop by the Centre, Monday to Friday 9 am - 4 pm, call 204-320-4600 or online patporteralc.com.

Membership is $25 per year due by January 15 for those 55 years of age and older. Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice in business meetings, voting rights and eligibility to serve on the board or committees.

Up and Coming Events and Monthly Programs: Old Time Country Dances with Live Band: Small Town Limits on Friday April 1 at 8 pm - 12 am and Nitewinds on Friday, April 29 at 8 pm - 12 am. Tickets available at the centre. Advanced tickets are $11 for members, $13 for non-members and $16 at the door. Lunch served at 10 pm. Save yourself a few dollars and purchase your tickets in advance.

If you can’t make it into the Centre, we accept Visa and MasterCard over the phone and will have your tickets for you at the door.

April Potluck: On Thursday, April 14. If you know that, you would like to attend please call ahead and let us know what you would like to bring. Call 204-320-4600. As always needed are salads, casseroles, desserts and buns. Cost is $6.

Diabetes Cooking Workshop: Join us on Thursday, April 28 from 2 4 pm for a cooking workshop on Diabetes. Open to the public. Presented

by Rebecca Wilson-Rempel who is a Chronic Disease dietician with My Health Team in the Steinbach Area through Southern Health-Santé Sud. The workshop aims to provide a structure of how to plan meals that are diabetic friendly, provide reliable, current nutrition information and cooking demonstrations geared to help independent living seniors make wise choices. Get motivated to enjoy cooking and sample some yummy, easy to make recipes. You will have a chance to ask questions, discuss, and share ideas or recipes on diabetic cooking. Please confirm if you are planning to take this workshop before Friday, April 22. Contact the centre to register at 204-320-4600.

Computer Lab: Need help with your computer skills? Call the centre and make an appointment. Labs are 1 hour long and available every Wednesday morning from 9 am – Noon. Please call the centre at 204320-4600.

Foot Care: On the first Tuesday, first Wednesday and third Tuesday of the month from 9 am - 2 pm. Run by a professional foot care nurse.

Cost $30. Bring your own towel. Contact the centre to book an appointment.

Beltone Hearing: On the third Friday of the month. Contact 1-800661-2653 for appointment.

Monday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Pickleball 1 - 4:30 pm Model Trains 1 pm Canasta 7 pm Tai Chi 7 - 9 pm Drop in Pool Tuesday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 9:30 am – 3 pm Circle of Friends 12 – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1:30 - 4 pm Floor Shuffle 7 - 9 pm Drop in Pool Wednesday 10 - 11:30 am Tai Chi 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Cribbage 7 - 10 pm Old Time Band Practice 7 - 10 pm Drop in Pool Thursday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Whist 6 - 9 pm Drop in Pool Friday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball 9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Pickleball Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $6. Contact 204-320-4605 by 9 am to reserve your meal for that day. Purchase your meal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menus available at the office or in the newsletter. Bring a friend.

Volunteer Opportunities include perogy making, decorating and setting tables, birthday party hosts, food preparation and serving, clean up, greeters and receptionists.

Court Order Breach on Young Adult

On April 4 at approximately 2 am, Steinbach RCMP conducted a traffic stop in the area of the Clearspring Middle School after a vehicle was observed attempting to evade police detection. A 21 year old passenger in the vehicle was taken into custody for being out past his curfew as per a condition put in place by a Justice of the Peace as part of a Recognizance. The 21 year old was remanded into custody later in the day.

12

April 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Grunthal Red Wings Named Ringette Champions

After a weekend of ringette action, the Grunthal Red Wings have been named this year’s U-16 B Manitoba Ringette Provincial Champions.

In the final game, the Red Wings beat Portage Thunder 43 at the PCU Centre in Portage La Prairie. The team lost a previous contest with the team 5-4 in overtime, earlier in the day.

“Working together helped us win the game,” said Red Wings’ Captain Kirsten Friesen. “We got it done.”

To earn the championship, the Red Wings first defeated the Garden City Aces (5-2), Thompson (9-2) and the Southside Vikings (6-3).

The Red Wings top scorer Kendra Wiens won the Eastman and Winnipeg Ringette League division titles for the season.

Lorette Comets Win Provincial Atom AA Championship

Lorette Comets Atom AA took home the Provincial Championship.

The Lorette Comets took the top prize at the Provincial Championships after a weekend full of great hockey from the Atom level.

In the final game, the Comets defeated McDonald to capture the Atom AA Provincial Championship.

“Being young kids, they grew on and off the ice, good sportsmanship and being nice to other teams and getting used to the crowd and people cheering for them it was great,” said Chris Boles, the Comets coach.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Saints Win Championship

Coaches - Mark Dixon and Pat Maynard, Missing Colin McFarlane.

Back row: Colton Magne, Mackenzie Dixon, Ryan Fuchs, Cody Gunderson, Jeremie Collette, Zach Maynard and Braeden McFarlane. Front row: Stephen Chubaty, Ashton Dubois, Marcus Gobeil, Jayden Gosselin, Kaden Rioux, Miguel Audet and Goalie Jaden Catellier.

The Rat River Saints took the Eastman Minor Hockey League PeeWee A1 Championship.

Eastman Selects Female Bantam AAA Hockey Manitoba Provincial Champs

Rat River Saints New Atom B2 Champs

Bantam B Consolation Goes to Rat River Saints

Rat River Saints Bantam B - Team: Back row: Corey Maynard (assistant coach), Alex Maynard, Eric Hébert, Tyler Forest, Robert Stepaniuk (safety), Caleb Laroche, Daniel Friesen, Maurice Gosselin (assistant coach) and Jacques Laroche (head coach). Front row: Brian Roy (manager), Thomas Maynard, Patrick Roy, Braeden Dixon, Stéphane Chartier, Austin Schlorff, Austin Bowcott and Mike Stepaniuk.

The last game of the Bantam B Consolation series was played on March 18 at the St. Pierre-Jolys Arena versus the Sagkeeng Hawks. The final score was 5-3 for the Rat River Saints.

Back row: Marty Morrissette (head coach), Shaun Forest (safety) and Norm Fréchette (assistant coach). Middle row: Chase Holdnick, Logan Dearborn, Janice Forest, Noah Maynard, Evan Morrissette, Seth Laroche, Ashton Curé, Sebastien Fréchette, Tyson Preteau and Nicholas Boisclair-Doyle in net. Absent Samuel Fréchette and Jack Hamonic.

The Rat River Saints Atom B2 won 8 to 5 in the final game of the best of five series in Oakbank to capture the championship.

Players: Mackenzie Borgfjord, Kyana Brown, Tanner Dillabough, Chelsea Dinnin (C), Colleen Early, Kate Gregoire (A), Emily Grossman (A), Emily Halverson, Isabella Hildebrand, Raygan Kirk, Kylie Lesuk, Hunter Mason, Katie Matula, Jersey Sexton, Sydney Stotski (A) and Liza Vigier. Coaching Staff: Chris McColm, Terry Patrick and Hub Blanchette.

By Jeannine Stotski The Eastman Selects have finished their 42-8-2 season as Hockey Manitoba’s Provincial Rural Female Bantam “AAA” champions.

Eastman defeated the Interlake Ice 3-2 in the Gold medal game on Sunday, March 13 in Carman. The Selects lost the opening round robin game 2-1 to Pembina Valley and then went on to defeat Norman 7-2.

A five-way tie for second place after the round robin resulted in the goals for/against tiebreaker, leaving the Selects in second place. This set up a semifinal game where Eastman edged Central Plains 3-2.

Select players Kate Gregoire and Kylie Lesuk were both named Provincial All-Stars.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Lemieux Says Goodbye to Dawson Trail

April 2016

13

Huge Tax Hike Risk

By Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis

In a few short weeks, voters will head to the polls to elect a new Dawson Trail representative, after long time MLA Ron Lemieux tendered his resignation.

Mere days before the writ was dropped, Lemieux announced that he was retiring from politics after serving the community for 17 years.

Lemieux said a health scare earlier this year was the main reason for dropping out of the spring provincial election race and leaving politics. An infection developed while he was vacationing in Arizona, which required hospitalization and surgery to drain it. “It was a wake-up call,” Lemieux said. “It made me realize that I’d like to spend more time with family, with my grandchildren, with my friends and do other things that for the past 17 years, I haven’t necessarily been able to do.”

While he has made a full recovery, the sudden illness, combined with some close friends his own age battling cancer, prompted him to rethink his future, he admitted.

Lemieux has been in the legislature since 1999 and has held several cabinet portfolios including transportation, consumer affairs, education and municipal affairs.

“When I got elected in 1999, people said, ‘who is Ron Lemieux?’” continued Lemieux.

“I have had an amazing career serving our constituents. It has been an amazing run. I have learned so much and we as a government have done so much. I did not get into politics to get thanked. You get into politics because you believe in the party’s platforms and you believe in the community. I have no regrets.”

During his time as MLA for Dawson Trail, Lemieux was instrumental in backing projects including the Lorette lagoon, twinning of Highway 59 to south of Ile des Chenes and the Lorette arena to name a few.

Once Lemieux’s time is his own, he plans to spend it with his three grandchildren, and his family.

Three local municipalities are hoping to call attention to a long-standing little-known provincial agreement that is about to end, which could mean a massive tax hike for families and businesses in small towns across Manitoba.

With the provincial election underway, the RMs of Stuartburn, Piney and Reynolds Councils are urging residents to speak out and tell candidates that the province needs to extend the agreement to fund main market road maintenance.

The “main market road” designation refers to a section of road in towns and villages that are used mostly as main market roads connecting local businesses to customers at home and across the province. The roads also connect families to hospitals, schools and community centres and in emergencies; they ensure first responders are there for us when we need them.

Stuartburn Reeve Jim Swidersky said that for the past twenty years, the provincial government has funded main market road maintenance in former LGD’s including the RMs of Piney, Reynolds and Stuartburn. “The main market road maintenance agreement was struck in the 1990s, when the government of the day was off loading the cost and responsibility for many provincial roads to municipalities,” Swidersky explained. “It was a trade-off that recognized our municipalities would be maintaining many kilometres of roads that only connect to provincial crown lands.”

Often these crown lands provide the provincial government revenue as they collect royalties for operations like logging and mining, but provide nothing to municipal governments while they are stuck fixing the wear and tear from these operations.

The main market road maintenance agreement is set to end in 2018. “Without it, our communities could be hit hard as we struggle to find other ways to cover maintenance costs,” Swidersky continued. “It could mean municipal tax hikes that are as high as 40%. That’s a scary deal for our families, our neighbours and local businesses. We need provincial politicians to commit to a fair deal.”

The provincial government has a billion-dollar annual budget for roads and bridges. Extending the agreement would cost less than three tenths of a percent of that, Swidersky added.

“The next time you meet a candidate please ask them to take a stand and commit to continue funding main market road maintenance for our municipalities,” he urged. “We need your help as we keep pushing to make sure our communities are treated fairly.”

Dawson Trail MLA Ron Lemieux looks pleased with his decision to leave politics to spend time with his family, as he embraces his wife Val. Photo by Marianne Curtis

“You get into politics because you believe in the party’s platforms and you believe in the community.

I have no regrets.”

14

April 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

SCU Announces 2015 Bonus Five Million The Steinbach Credit Union (SCU) Board of Directors announced the $5 million bonus at the AGM recently in recognition of a solid year in 2015.

The bonus will be shared with members who hold both deposit and lending accounts. The breakdown of this allocation is equal, 50% to deposit holders and 50% to credit holders. Eligible products include Consumer, Commercial, Agricultural, Charity and Community accounts, with the only exceptions being RESP, AgriInvest and Lawyer Trust accounts.

The bonus is calculated on interest earned and paid on qualifying products for the calendar year 2015

Sheep Farm and Slaughterhouse Approved

By Marianne Curtis The RM of Stuartburn Council has given the green light for the construction and operation of a large sheep farm and slaughterhouse. Canada Sheep and Lamb Farms southeast of Zhoda are building the facility.

On March 8, Pat Smith of Canada Sheep and Lamb presented their proposal for the 15,000-feeder lamb operation and federally inspected processing plant during a public hearing. About 95 people attended the hearing to discuss a Zoning Bylaw Change, Conditional Use Application and Variation Order.

“The intention is to provide 200 jobs in total, 40 of those people would be needed immediately once the plant is in operation, which would include a full time veterinarian,” said Smith. The company anticipates bringing about $15 Million in the RM of Stuartburn.

Stuartburn Reeve Jim Swidersky attended as a ratepayer so he could speak in support of the Conditional Use application. “I urge council to recognize the history of the area and to protect the cemetery, view the present and welcome new people in the area with new ideas, potential to lower taxes and school taxes, more employment and look to the future and the benefits to this municipality as well as surrounding municipalities, it would help the realty business and the school,” said Swidersky.

He suggested the project be approved, as long as a nearby historical cemetery was protected.

Ten area residents took the floor to speak including six who were opposed to all three applications. The RM of Stuartburn Council closed the hearing that night, then returned to discuss the matter at the next council meeting.

On March 17, the majority of council voted in favour of the operation with a few conditions, including establishing a road maintenance agreement, restricting the spread of manure from the cemetery and no spreading 3 days before a funeral. They also have to provide an engineered drainage plan.

Swidersky and Councillor Konrad Narth did not participate in any discussions or decisions on the matter.

St. Pierre-Jolys Museum Hosting “Sweet” Party During the month of April, the annual sugar festival will be held in St. Pierre-Jolys at the Cabane Sucre.

The annual Sugaring Off Party is being held on April 9 and 10 from 10 am – 5 pm in the Cabane à Sucre, which is located at the Musée de Saint-PierreJolys Muséum in St. Pierre-Jolys.

Each year, visitors from all over the province attend the festival, which is designed to celebrate the tradition of tapping Maple sap to make syrup and maple butter.

As part of the celebrations, visitors to the Cabane Sucre are shown how to properly tap a Maple tree for the sweetness inside, witness the dehydrating process first hand and an opportunity to sample the finished product.

The annual weekend event promises to be full of activities, including taffy on snow, an interpretive centre demonstrating the production of maple syrup, horse wagon rides, museum tours, fiddling contest, traditional French-Canadian dining and local entertainment.

There is no cost to attend.

and equates to an additional 3.66% on interest already earned and 2.03% on interest already paid. Bonus deposits will be made by direct deposit to qualifying accounts by March 18, 2016.

“Giving back to the members is not only what SCU is all about but it is also a testament to the loyalty and trust our members have in us,” said Reg Penner, Chairman of the Board. Penner added that combined with SCU’s history of unparalleled service, excellent products and competitive rates, this bonus is yet another reason why member satisfaction continues to remain one of the highest of any financial institution.

CEO Glenn Friesen announced that SCU has surpassed $4.75 billion in total assets. “We’re small enough to give the one-on-one service members crave and large enough to take on what the market can muster. It’s our formula for success,” said Friesen.

“We have a very efficient business model and we deliver on those efficiencies by offering extremely competitive rates every day. You won’t find minimum balance requirements at SCU, and we pay interest

from dollar one. We’re focused on each and every member and we’re as friendly as we’ve been since day one.”

Also at the AGM, the membership re-elected board members Reg Penner and Rob Penner. Amanda Peters was newly elected, as Sieg Peters did not let his name stand for re-election.

Following the AGM, the Board of Directors re-elected, Reg Penner as Board Chair, Russ Fast as first ViceChair and Henry Van de Velde as second Vice-Chair.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Blumenort Business Targeted by Thief In the early hours of March 31, Steinbach RCMP were dispatched to a break and enter and theft at a business on Penner Drive in the Town of Blumenort.

The thief stole an undisclosed amount of cigarettes and escaped.

If you have any information in regards to these incidents, 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).

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

April 2016

15

Ste. Anne Aces Top Team The Ste. Anne Aces became champions of the Carillon Senior Hockey League for 201516 season when they defeated the Steinbach Huskies on March 18 to win the best of 7, 4 games to 2.

Photo by Bill Delvecchio

Safety Review Underway in IDC Over the next few months, the RM of Ritchot will be conducting a road safety review in Ile des Chenes.

The purpose of the review is to create an Active School Travel Engineering Plan, which will provide evidence based recommendations for active transportation infrastructure development for Ile des Chenes.

The Road Safety Review will evaluate the intersection of Old PTH 59 and Dumaine Road and make recommendations to increase the safety of said intersection.

Numerous complaints have come forward about the safety of pedestrians, specifically schoolchildren who must cross the busy highway.

Ritchot Mayor Jackie Hunt has confirmed that the municipality has been trying to gain control of the old highway #59.

“We are waiting for the province to turn over the old highway; in the meantime, there doesn’t seem to be much we can do unless people come forward,” said Hunt. She urges residents to keep their eyes open for municipal hearings that require meeting with the Traffic board. “I encourage ratepayers to contact their MLA. As long as the province maintains control of the road, the municipality has no control over the speed limit. They cannot install a crosswalk for safety either.

MORR Transportation has offered to provide both reports at a reduced cost of 25% for a total of $10,000. The information gathered through the Road Safety Review will be used to come up with viable solutions to improve pedestrian safety.

ATV Trails Ready for Traffic

By Marianne Curtis Trail riding enthusiasts travelling through the Sandilands area may have noticed a groomed trail developing over the last few months.

According to Gary Hora, Woodridge Sandhogs Club President the club has been working at getting the trails ready throughout the area as part of a pilot project for developing designated ATV trails in the Sandilands Provincial Forest.

The project is a joint venture with the ATV Manitoba and Eastman ATV Association with both clubs clearing trails in their proposed sections. “The Sandhogs are working on a trail loop that will go north of Woodridge towards the Marchand wayside park (Ranger station) heading west to the town of Sandilands and then back to Woodridge,” Hora explained.

The Woodridge Sandhogs ATV club has been operating in the RM of Piney since 2008 and has been affiliated with ATVMB since 2009.

For the past few years, the club has also been working on creating an official designated ATV trail along with the Eastman ATV association and ATVMB. The growth of outdoor recreational sports and their success will also benefit the municipality and local businesses to succeed and grow as well, he added.

“For our club and for me this has been a 6 year journey, working with different levels of government and Manitoba Conservation,” Hora continued. “We now have the trails approved and in place and in time hope to see the trail system expanded from the approx 150 km’s (2 trail loops) to include more townships for riders to enjoy and to help create more tourism for our businesses in our RM.” Hora said the Woodridge Sandhogs club, operates with a board comprised of third and fourth generation families from the area.

“This may reflect our passion to protect and develop the trails in our riding area as many of these trails have been made by our family members in the past,” Hora continued. “Our board has always kept in mind the needs of the riders, other user groups and the local citizens to try to keep balance to our trail system and local concerns.”

The Woodridge Sandhogs club also believes it is important to work with other user groups in the area to help educate and inform people to respect all user groups so that everyone can enjoy their chosen sport.

16

April 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

COMMUNITY EVENTS EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT TO EDITOR@DAWSONTRAIL.CA OR FAX 204-422-8548

Blumenort Faspa Fundraiser – On Sunday, April 10 at 5 pm in the Blumenort EMC. Come hear our director share the story of how it all started and enjoy singing as well. Contact Rob 204-226-2931.

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.

Friedensfeld Celebrate the Arts In Shades of White – On Friday, May 6 at the Community Centre. Cocktails at 5:30pm, a delicious full course meal and exciting entertainment at 6:30 pm, Jewellery Tombola, Dance with F&R Music to end the night with professional photographers to capture every glamorous moment. Tickets $115 each, Table $800 for 8. Contact 204346-1077 to reserve your table.

La Broquerie Do you have the winter blues, a little touch of cabin fever? On Saturday, April 9 at the Edge Bar, Frantz Inn starting at 8 pm it is time to get out and enjoy the new season. The Southeast ATV Association is hosting a Spring Kick-off. Tickets $15. Contact Gary Gebhardt 204-429-3276 or Rick Peters 204-424-5036.

Gardenton A Bud-Spud-Steak/Chicken/Vegan Dinner fundraiser - On Saturday, April 16 from 5 – 8 pm. For the Gardenton Park/ Ukrainian Museum & Village Society Inc at the Nashvilles, Canad Inn, 826 Regent Ave., Winnipeg. Grand prizes, silent auction, and 50/50. Cost $20. Everyone welcome. Contact for tickets/information Helen 204-453-4041 or Kelvin, 204-4258197.

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, 204424-5285 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.

Giroux Bingo - Every Thursday at Giroux Hall. Doors open at 5 pm, Bingo starts at 7 pm. Hall rental information for Socials, Lorette weddings, family functions, Meetings and more please call A Grief Support Group - On Saturday mornings from, April 23 – Saturday, June 25 in Notre Dame de Lorette Parish. Providing Debbie 204-424-5506 or Mike 204-326-6260. education on the grieving and mourning processes for individuals who have lost a loved one. 10 weekly meetings of Glenlea Mother’s Day Workshops – On Sunday May 1 from 10 - 11:30 2 hours per week. Group size limited to 6 participants. Facilitator am - Herb Garden 101 and on Sunday May 7 from 10 - 11:30 is Maryanne Rumancik and we will be following the program am - Succulent Planting at Glenlea Greenhouses. Make your found in Understanding Your Grief: Ten Essential Touchstones mom or grandma a handmade gift she’ll actually use. Workshop for Finding Hope and Healing Your Heart by Dr. Alan Wolfelt.

Cost free, you only pay for the plants and pots you use, or you Suggested donation to cover book costs is $45. Registration can even bring your own pot. An adult must accompany children deadline Saturday, April 9. Contact Fr. Charles Fillion 204under 12. Contact to register info@glenleagreenhouses.com 878-2221 or Maryanne Rumancik 204-878-3901. Exact meeting time TBA. or 204-882-2626.

Hadashville Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great stress release and have an excellent workout at the same time. Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or KSTA.academy@gmail.com.

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.

Mitchell Soup and Pie Fundraiser – On Friday, April 8 from 4:30 - 7:30 pm at the Senior Centre. There will be a baked goods table there as well. You won’t to miss out!

Niverville Crow Wing Trail AGM - On Monday April 29 from 7 - 9 pm at John Henry’s Meeting Room, 290 Main St. Guest Speaker Native Plan Solutions – Wetland/Upland Specialists. Topic – Niverville Lagoon System and a first of its kind project in Canada using phytoremediation for on-site lagoon decommissioning.

IDC Youth Art Club – On Tuesdays from April 12 - May 24 at 7 The Crow Wing Trail meanders along this attraction.

- 8 pm in the Trans Canada Centre. Ages 9 - 15 yrs, Cost $15.

Contact Pat Lloyd 204-275-8101, 204-396-5052 or The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club – Meets every Monday at 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to become plloyd1276@shaw.ca. a better speaker, run meetings that are more effective or Wedding Experience 2016 – On Saturday, April 16 from 10 am develop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Club is the place to – 3 pm. Stage presentations begin at 10:30 am at 1 Rivard St. start. Contact Sheryl Berglund, Sberglund4@shaw.ca.

Presenters include Little Flower Shop, Centre TransCanada Centre, Jeremy Dueck Photography, Turning Points, Summer GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced the Bounce Entertainment, A Moving Picture Studio, Salon 421. loss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learn Topics on Décor, Venues, Marriage Ceremonies, and so much about the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to register more. Wine tasting, Tips and Tricks, Food samples. Poutine or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com.

King and Capo di Grande will be on site selling some great food and beverages. Cost $5 per person. Contact 204-878- Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six.

Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the 2242. lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.) Shake, Rattle and Roll – On Tuesdays to April 19 from 10 – Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along 11 am. A physical literacy program for children ages 2-4 yrs old with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms at the Trans Canada Centre IDC. Contact 204-803-6115 to visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com. register.

Prawda Green Initiatives Open House – On Tuesday, May 3 at the Ile Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool des Chenes École Gabrielle-Roy hosted by RM of Ritchot. Join down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean us to learn about our community-composting program runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondays (composters for sale), community gardening and cost sharing and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact for tree planting on municipal right of ways. Unable to attend Wendy 204-348-2433. contact Amber at recreation@ritchot.com or 204-803-6115.

Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at Baseball Registration - Seine River Minor Ball servicing Ile des the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks Chenes, Grande Pointe and St. Adolphe. Ages 4 – 18 yrs (2012- provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

1998). Visit srmb.countmein.com to register. Contact Alex at 204-981-1610 for Baseball or Erin at 204-803-1213 for Softball. Richer Richer Recovery AA - Group meets Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 pm Story Time in Pyjamas - Every Thursday evening at the Ritchot at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Paul at 204-422-7673.

Library Ecole Regional Gabrielle-Roy at 6:30 pm. Ages 2-8 Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey Pchajek however all ages are welcome.

Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating 50+ Programs - At the Trans Canada Centre Indoor Walking - Mondays, Wednesday and Friday 9 – 10 am grades 8 and 12. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open Yoga - Monday 10 -11 am at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC Coffee Talk - Wednesday 10 - 11 am License # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 Block Therapy - Tuesday 10 - 11 am or doreen@spmf.ca.

Water Colour Painting – Thursday 10 - 11:30 am Line Dancing - Thursday 7 - 8 pm Rosa Floor Curling - Friday 10 am – 12 pm Contact to register Mary Ann Bingo Night Fundraiser - On April Friday, 15 at 7 pm, Rosa Hall Shevchenko Ukrainian Centre. The 2016 Vita Graduating Class vintageclub@transcanadacentre.com, 204-339-6141. hosting the fundraiser. Doors open at 6 pm. Great prizes and Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturday fun to be had. Contact Sandra 204-425-3569 or Rob 204-425of every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn about 3975.

Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive Blessed Rose Petals and other Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’s Sprague place of miracles. Contact Corinna 204-878-4908 or email her Sprague & District Historical Museum - Open by appointment at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for more info and register. from June – September 30. Explore life as it was in the early Ile-des-Chênes Block Therapy – On Thursdays, April 7 - May 26 from 7 - 8 pm in the Trans Canada Centre (2nd Floor). Cost $56 for the full session or $10 for a drop in. Contact Joanne Holt joanneholt@mymts.net, jmhwellness.com.

days. Free Admission Donations Accepted. Contact 204-437- a large selection of books in both French and English, for children and adults. Special requests can be made to the 2210, 204-437-2209 or 204-437-4686. librarian, bibliotachelibrary.com or in person. Come for a visit and see what we are all about.

St. Adolphe Old Tyme Dance – On Sundays April 9 and May 14 from 7 – 11 pm at the Community Centre Pioneer Hall. Cost $13 per person. Steinbach Trivia/Quiz Night, Steinbach – On Saturday, March 12 at 7 pm Kickstart Personal Productivity - ROTI (Return on Time Invested) sharp join us at Steinbach United Church. Snacks and Techniques that Get More Done in Less Time – On Tuesday, refreshments served but you can bring snacks and/or nonApril 19, at 7 - 8:30 pm. Hosted by Ritchot Chamber of Commerce alcoholic drinks for your table, There will be a silent auction.

Presents with Grant Suderman from Verge Strategy at RM of Cost $10 per person. Register before March 2 contact 204Ritchot Main Office, 352 Main Street. Cost is free to Ritchot 346-5466 or 204-326-3908.

Chamber Members and non-members $10. Registration encouraged since some course material is emailed to Basics of Backyard Composting – On Monday, April 11 from participants prior the event. Contact Lesley at 6 – 7 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Museum presented by the Steinbach & Area Garden Club. Local Master Composters cedo@ritchot.com or 204-803-2871. will show you how to create healthier soil and a flourishing Kids Concert Fundraiser - On Wednesday, April 20 from 6:30 – garden by composting your yard and food waste. Everyone 7:30 pm. Children’s entertainer, Juno nominee and Winnipeg welcome! Registration is required. $5 non-members. Contact Folk Festival artist Aaron Burnett at Ecole St. Adolphe School. to register 204-326-2396 or email info@sagardenclub.com.

Tickets available in advance, walk-ups welcome. Fundraiser for the Community Green Space and Playground. Cost $10 each Steinbach & Area Garden Club Meeting - On Monday, April or $30 for a family. Cotton candy and drinks for sale $1. Contact 11, 7 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village. “The Dirt on Lesley at lrgaudry@gmail.com or call/text 204-471-1210. Micronutrients – Knowing Your Garden Soil” with Vic Lesser, owner, Red River Soils. Come learn about the role of Green Initiatives Open House – On Tuesday, April 26 from 7- micronutrients in creating soil for a thriving garden. All are 8:30 pm at the St. Adolphe École St. Adolphe School hosted by welcome. Non-members $5. Refreshments. Door prizes.

RM of Ritchot. Join us to learn about our community-composting Contact sagardenclub.com. program (composters for sale), community gardening and cost sharing for tree planting on municipal right of ways. Unable to Summer Arts Day Camp – Early Bird registration from Monday, attend contact Amber at recreation@ritchot.com or 204-803- April 11 – Monday, May 9 - get 10% off. Camp for ages 5 8 and ages 9 – 12. 7 New Themes: Aloha Summer, Wild Wild 6115.

West, Land Before Time Spy Kid, Welcome to the Carnival, The 50+ Programs Programs at Ritchot Senior Services Active Living Mighty Jungle and The Great Outdoors. Contact Steinbach Arts Council at 204-346-1077 to register.

Centre 457 Main St. Moving - Mondays 9:30 am Annual Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit – Opening Yoga Fusion - Wednesday 10:30 am Ceremony on Friday, April 15 at 7 pm. Exhibit runs April 15 – Firm Up – Fridays 9:30 am 10-class pack for $40 or drop in fee $5 per class. Contact Janice May 18 at 304 Second Street, Cultural Arts Centre. This year a showcase of over 120 entries of juvenile and adult original at mjburn@shaw.ca or 204-883-2880. local artwork featuring photography, pencil drawings, Weekly Bingo – On Tuesday nights at the St. Adolphe Community watercolour and acrylic paintings, sculpture, and pottery to Club. Doors open at 6 pm, 6:55 pm - Speedo Game, 7 pm - Early name a few.

Bird Games, 7:30 pm - Regular Games. We hope to see you South Eastman Renewable Energy Show – On Saturday, April there! Proceeds will support the Community Club.

16 from 1- 5 pm, at the Mennonite Heritage Village. Hosted

by South Eastman Transition Initiative. local products, services St. Malo Sponge Puck Hockey – On Wednesdays at 8 pm at the arena. and expertise on how to save money and build energy resilience at home, answer the challenge of climate change Come out and play for fun. Contact Gilles 204-347-5079. or learn about exciting economic opportunities in Manitoba and hear speakers from Climate Change Connection, 50 by St. Pierre-Jolys Sisters of the Holy Rock – On Sunday, May 1, 2 pm at the École 30 and more, discussing sustainability from the grassroots up.

Communautaire Réal Berard. Fun music and awesome singing for the whole family. Cost $20. Contact for tickets Diane at 204- Page to Film Night – On Wednesday, April 20 at 7 pm the Diary of a Wimpy Kid 3: Dog Days. Normally, the 4th Friday of 433-7518 or Gaby at 204-433-7761. the month at the Jake Epp Library. Popcorn provided.

Step Aerobics with Weights - On Tuesday and Thursday at 7 pm, at the ICSP School Gym. Contact Stephanie 204-320-2667, Reach for the Stars – On Wednesday, April 20 at the SRSS Louise 204-433-3839 or The Health Corner 204-433-3891. Theatre 190 McKenzie Ave. final production for The Backyard Theatre Company. Contact for tickets reserved seating 204Diabetes Educational Resource Centre – On 2nd Thursday of 246-1077. Adult $9, Student $5, Family Special 4 for $24. the month from 1:30 - 3:30 pm at the DeSalaberry District Health Small Space Vegetable Gardening 101 - On Saturday, April Centre. Contact 204-346-6254.

23 from 10 am - 12 noon at the Mennonite Heritage Village.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression, bipolar, Workshop presented by the Steinbach & Area Garden Club. Do post partum mood disorders support group meetings held on you have a small garden plot or growing container? Learn the last Monday of each month at 7 pm at the Chalet Malouin how to develop a plan, choose your vegetables, and all season boardroom. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital. care information. No gardening experience necessary.

Registration required. $5 for non-members. Contact to register Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

204-326-2396 or e-mail info@sagardenclub.com.

Ste. Agathe Green Initiatives Open House – On Tuesday, May 10 from 7- Author Reading for Young Adults – On Tuesday, April 26 starts 8:30 pm at the Ste. Agathe École Ste. Agathe School hosted by at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Local Young Adult authors RM of Ritchot. Join us to learn about our community-composting Julia O’Brien (Tales of the Bonded – Fire and Ice) and program (composters for sale), community gardening and cost Chantelle J.Z. Storm (Asylum) will be joining us to read from sharing for tree planting on municipal right of ways. Unable to and talk about their books. Both books available for purchase. attend contact Amber at recreation@ritchot.com or 204-803- Refreshments provided.

6115.

2016 Power Smart Manitoba Summer Games – From Sunday, Ritchot Chamber Networking Event - Practicing Your 30 secs August 7 – Saturday, August 13. Volunteer to have fun, to Sales Pitch & Business Card Exchange – On Tuesday, May 17 experience a great time and to participate in the province’s from 7 – 8:30 pm at Ste-Agathe Cartier Park – Flood Interpretive largest ongoing multi-sport program. Looking for 1,000 Centre/Picnic Shelter. Network with fellow Chamber Members volunteers to welcome kids ages 10 - 17 from across the and new members, exchange business cards, and talk about province. It is a great opportunity to meet new people, build opportunities in Ritchot and beyond. Cost free. Contact Lesley a sense of community and gain experience. There are various volunteer opportunities; something for everyone. Volunteer cedo@ritchot.com or call/text 204-803-2871. registration at manitobagames.ca. Come join in the fun. Dream Taekwondo - Every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:15 - 7:30 pm it! Live it! Contact the Games Office at 204-371-1212 or at Ecole Sainte Agathe hosted by Kang’s Taekwondo Academy. steinbach2016@sportmanitoba.ca.

Cost $40/month. Family rates available. Contact Jason Barnabe, Eastman Safety Upcoming Programs: Located at 385 Loewen jason.barnabe@gmail.com or 204-802-3458.

Blvd. Register online at eastmansafety.ca or contact 1-204371-1595.

Ste. Anne Ste. Anne Cultural Committee - Invites artists of all kinds to On Friday, April 8 - First Aid Fridays - Emergency First Aid/CPR their weekly open houses at 112 Centrale Ave. on Tuesdays C/AED only $60. On Saturday, April 9 - Pet First Aid Course, from 9 - 11:30 am and Wednesdays from 7 - 8:30 pm. These Friday, April 15 - SJA Emergency First Aid Course, Sunday, gatherings are to bring artists together to work on and discuss April 17 - Fire craft & Knife Skills Course, Monday April 18 their craft and there is no cost to attend. Contact Diane at 204- Babysitters Course & Home Alone Program, Tuesday, April 19 - SSM Babysitter Safety Training Program, Saturday, April 30 422-9599 or email cccsa@mymts.net.

- Emergency First Aid course, Saturday April 30 and Sunday, Seine River Services for Seniors – Services and programs for May 1 - Standard First Aid and CFSC & CRFSC course. Register seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot at eastmansafety.ca or contact 204-371-1595. care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Eastman Immigrant Services - Many events and activities to Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday support and help you make new friends. Start to make this of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s community feel like your home. Volunteer to help at our Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 community events. To register contact 204-346-6609, am - 1 pm. Cost $10. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285 lois@eastmanis.com.

Community Resource Coordinator for local services or e-mail Upcoming Events: Cultures in the Kitchen -Submit your recipe.

Help us create an amazing ethnic cookbook. labseinerss@gmail.com.

Let’s Chat – Informal conversation group that meets every Wednesday 1:30 – 2:30 pm.

Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Pronunciation Skills – Intermediate Pronunciation on Monday Centre on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 - 8 pm, brings and Wednesday from 5 – 7 pm. Advanced Pronunciation on

Dawson Trail Dispatch Monday and Wednesday from 7 – 9 pm at D4-284 Reimer Ave. Classes are free.

Hip Hop – Every Tuesday for youth ages 8-15.

Mommies Group at Kidzone - On Wednesdays, from 9 am - 1 pm. Come by to meet other moms to chat with and get your kids to make some new friends. Cost $7, free coffee.

Creativi-Tea Time - Need to relax and have some you time?

Give adult colouring a try. Event runs the second Wednesday of every month, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library.

Come and go as it suits you. We’ll provide basic supplies (including tea and coffee.

Games Day & Games Night – On the 1st Saturday from 12 – 5 pm every month and 3rd Wednesday every 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.

Canadian Legion - On 1st Tuesday every month at 8 pm and Ladies Auxiliary meets 1st Monday of each month at 7:30 pm at the Steinbach Legion Community Hall, 294 Lumber Ave. Adult Book Club - Tuesdays from 7 – 9 pm. Bring book suggestions or peruse our book lists. Meet some other book lovers too and bring a friend. At the Jake Epp Library 255 Elmdale St. Contact Tracey Pankratz 204-326-6841 programming@jakeepplibrary.com.

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

Local Coaches Selected for Program of Excellence Steinbach Piston’s Coach Rob Smith and Eastman Selects Coach Chris McColm have both been chosen to participate in the 2016 U16 and U-18 Program of Excellence (POE).

Each coach will lead their respective program through the team selection process, team preparation process, and their respective championship events next fall.

Smith will lead the U-16 Team Manitoba contingent to compete at the 2016 Western Canada U-16 Challenge Cup in Calgary, Alberta held October 19-23 with a roster featuring the province’s top male players born in 2001.

Smith has been named as an assistant coach twice for the U-16 POE (2013, 2014) and served again as a late replacement last season (2015) for a third time with the program. After helping U-16 Team Manitoba earn two bronze medals and a silver medal with his previous appointments Smith will bring his extensive knowledge to the forefront in 2016 as head coach.

In early November, McColm will be an Assistant Coach of the U-18 Team Manitoba when the team competes at the National Women’s U-18 Championship hosted by Hockey Canada, host site to be announced later. U-18 Team Manitoba will be led

by Head Coach Jeff Sveinson.

McColm, who heads the Rural Female Provincial champion Eastman Selects (Bantam AAA), will be making his first appearance on the U-18 coaching staff after having served as the video coordinator for U-18 Team Manitoba in 2015.

The Program of Excellence process will begin early April in Winnipeg with the POE Spring Camp seeing 102 players invited in their respective categories.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

through new experiences; develop leadership and decision- Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and making skills; give service to the community; value the natural support groups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional environment. concerns. Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Jake Green Drinks South Eastman - South Eastman Transition Epp Library from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

Initiative presents Green Drinks South Eastman. On the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 7 pm at Lecoka, 8B - Brandt Street. The Bethesda Regional Healthcare Auxiliary - meets on the Drop in and discuss sustainable living. Contact first Tuesday of every month except for the months of July and August at the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone rebecca_hiebert@yahoo.com. interested in auxiliary work. Contact Verna Thiessen at 326The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon except 3028. when Monday falls on a long weekend at the Chicken Chef, 365 Main Street, visitors are welcome. Contact Cornie at 326- Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at the Magnolia Restaurant.

3155.

Contact 204-326-2313.

Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for family and friends of people with mental health issues are held the Carillon Toastmasters - meetings are open to adults who want 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden East to improve their leadership and communication skills. building, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email Thursdays at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, Contact Sheryl at 204-326-7628 or Irene at 204-424eastmanmss@mts.net 5737.

MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living with multiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursday Al-Anon Program – Meets on Mondays at 7:30 pm at the evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place Cultural Arts Centre back door, downstairs. Contact Lloyd 204apartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services 326-4365.

Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email Al-Anon 12 Step Recovery Group - Meets on Wednesdays at nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca.

7:30 pm at United Church, 541 Main St, front door, ring doorbell.

MS Lunch Group- On 4th Thursday of every month, from 12 – All are welcome.

1 pm at All D’s Restaurant 320 Main Street. Contact Stephanie Bevacqua 204-988-0904, Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group starts at 4:30 pm at Steinbach Family Resource Centre B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact Stephanie.Bevacqua@mssociety.ca.

204-346-0413.

Tolstoi Spaghetti Supper Fundraiser - On Sunday, April 24 from 4 - 7 pm at the Senior Centre. Serving pasta and sauce, salad, garlic bread, dessert and beverage. Cost Adults $10, Children (2-9 yrs) $5. Contact Sandra at 204-425-3556 to reserve tickets. In support of Tolstoi Holy Trinity Church Historical Society Inc. Woodridge T.O.P.S -Taking Off Pounds Sensibly - On the second Wednesday of every month at the Community Club. For club hours of operation, contact Stan 204-429-2253.

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.

General Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- On Tuesdays, April 12 and May 17 from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Join us for a great day of fun and friendship. Visit McPhillips Street Station in the morning and Club Regent in the afternoon. Starting at 8:30 am, pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village.

Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cash giveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from the casinos for those wishing to play. Bi-monthly overnight trips to South Beach Casino and Folklorama trips are also available, amazing prices on these trips so call for details. Contact Marilyn at 204-3264939 for information and to reserve your seat.

Income Taxes: Tell Your Provincial Candidate Manitoba is one of the highest taxed provinces in Canada; especially for lower income individuals and seniors. Here are a few comments you can tell candidates as they come to your door or if you see them at events before the April 19 election. Cut out this article and show them.

Regardless of which party becomes the government, I hope all will pledge to do something about our incomes taxes for the lowest income earners.

Ambulance fees have been in the news a lot lately as there are some low-income individuals (mostly seniors) that cannot afford to pay for the $500+ ambulance fees.

They owe thousands of dollars, or some do not call an ambulance because they cannot afford to pay for the fee.

I have an easy solution to this. Make ambulance fees part of the Pharmacare program.

Pharmacare is a drug benefit program of Manitoba Health to ensure you pay only the portion of prescription medication that you can afford. The deductible (or your share) is about 4% of your net income. If your net income is $20,000, your Pharmacare deductible is about $800. For eligible prescriptions, you pay the first $800 and then Manitoba Health (or the rest of us taxpayers) pays the rest. If you are a couple, it’s based on your combined net income.

If we include ambulance fees in the Pharmacare deductible, then those who cannot afford it, have it covered. Those with higher incomes, still pay for themselves (or via their health care plan) since they can afford it.

If you think that is a good idea, let your candidate know!

When it comes to personal income taxes, it’s time for Manitoba to change how it taxes low- income taxpayers.

The basic credit that every taxpayer gets is over $11,327 Federally; but it is only $9,134 for the residents of Manitoba. Since 1999, the current provincial government has only increased it a small amount, that’s why it’s still $2,000 less than the Federal credit. This credit hurts the lowest income earners the most. Does it make sense that someone who earns $11,000 of income would pay absolutely no federal taxes, and yet pays provincial taxes?

An individual who earns $15,000 pays $380 in Federal taxes and yet pays $556 in Provincial taxes; that’s about 50% more! Back in 1999, when the current government came into power, provincial taxes were about 50% of Federal taxes (it would have been about $275, not $556 today!).

So when minimum wage is increased, more money goes to the provincial government in increased income taxes. Tell the candidates that it’s time stop taxing the poorest of Manitobans. Even the province of BC has a calculation to make sure those earning income under $20,000 pay no or very little provincial taxes. Time for our government to help those who need it the most.

And for seniors, the Federal age credit is $7,033; it’s still only $3,728 for Manitoban seniors.

Time to increase that, too. For a senior with income of about $18,000 they pay no Federal taxes, but they pay over $300 for provincial taxes. Time to stop taxing our lowincome seniors!! They cannot afford it!

These numbers may seem small or insignificant to you, but to individuals or seniors with low income, a few hundred dollars is a lot to them.

I hope that as the candidates come knocking on your door or you attend an event, you will tell the candidates it’s time to stop taxing our low-income residents!

A final reminder that the tax filing deadline is May 2 (April 30 is a Saturday). This is important if you have taxes payable and not expecting a refund. Those of us that are self-employed (or the spouse of someone that is self-employed), we have until June 15 to file our taxes without penalty (we still pay interest on any amount owed as at April 30).

Even if you cannot pay Canada Revenue Agency, it’s important you file on time to avoid any nasty penalties for filing late.

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

April 2016

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Steinbach to Host Allen Cup Action From April 11 to 16, the South East Prairie Thunder will host the 2016 Allan Cup in Steinbach where they look to defend their 2015 national title on home ice.

Joining the South East Prairie Thunder in the 2016 Allan Cup will be the Ile-des-Chenes North Stars who qualified by defeating the Manitoba Lightning earlier this month in a best of three series, 2-1.

The Ile-des-Chenes North Stars won the Allan Cup in 2003 and hosted the event in their hometown the last time it was held in Manitoba back in 2009.

The South East Prairie Thunder lost the 2009 final in double-overtime, but went on to win the championship in 2012 and 2015 and are now seeking a third title in 2016.

The two Manitoba clubs will be joined by four other teams across Canada representing their regions, Atlantic, Central, Pacific and West. The Regional qualifiers took place within each specific region to determine the final field for the 2016 Allan Cup. Since the adoption of a national playoff system in 1920, Manitoba has seen 12 Allan Cup victories from member clubs, more than any other province with the exception of Ontario with 49 championships.

To track the progress of qualifying teams and Allan Cup details visit allancup.ca and to purchase tickets for the 2016 Allan Cup in Steinbach contact Jared Driedger, jared@vonast.com or Marv Kornelson, mkcltd@mts.net.

Multiple Impaired Drivers Nabbed In the early morning of March 5, approximately 2:25 pm Steinbach RCMP observed a vehicle travelling at a high rate of speed on Highway 52 West. The vehicle continued west bound on Main street and finally stopped near Reimer.

The driver provided samples of his breath, which resulted in nearly three times the legal limit of alcohol. The driver was found to be impaired. The 21-year-old Steinbach man appeared in court in Steinbach on March 17.

On Saturday March 5 at approximately 7:30 pm Steinbach RCMP were dispatched to a single motor vehicle collision in La Broquerie. The female driver was found to be impaired by drugs. The forty-year-old female will appear in Steinbach Court on April 14 to face charges of Impaired Operation of a Motor Vehicle by Drugs.

In the early morning of March 6, approximately 1:15 am a vehicle was stopped on Main street near Sunset. The driver had an odour of liquor, was given the roadside screening device and failed. The driver was arrested for Impaired Driving and escorted to the detachment where he provided breath samples that were near twice the legal limit of alcohol. The 52-yearold male from Steinbach appeared in court on March 17 in Steinbach.

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April 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Book Faire Aides Newborns

By Marianne Curtis

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Crow Wing Gets Funds for Trailhead Signage

The Organizers of the Bethesda Ladies The Crow Wing Trail Association Auxiliary’s annual Spring will now be able to proceed with Book Faire have added the installation of a historical trail $16,500 to their map after BSI Insurance Brokers fundraising accounts after donates a $2,000 cheque. another successful sale The donation from BSI has helped took place on March 16The Crow Wing Trail complete their 19 at the Clearspring fundraising total of $9,000 for the Centre in Steinbach. design and production of the first Bethesda Auxiliary trailhead sign, which will be located member Verna Thiessen on the floodway. The sign will said that thousands of depict a historical trail map by used books found new renowned local artist Réal Bérard homes during the threethat is expected to be completed by day event. “The book fair summer 2016. brought us approximately Association President Murielle $16,500 this time around,” Bugera is thrilled they will be able said Thiessen. “So we will to proceed with this project. “We finish paying off the will be using this template to install Bilisoft Blanket and it trailhead signs at 11 access points gives us a good start on along the Crow Wing Trail as we the bathtub.”

Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen helps Bethesda Ladies access funds, so this funding is The Bilisoft Blanket is a Auxiliary President Phyllis Toews sort out books during very important as it helps to create portable phototherapy the recent Book Faire. the first one,” said Bugera. device for the treatment of neonatal jaundice. This will cost $16,000 for two. equipment is designed to Their next goal is to raise $30,000 to replace allow positioning, the ARJP bathtub in Bethesda Place. swaddling, and other Over the years, the Bethesda Ladies direct contact with the Auxiliary has hosted several successful baby. Enabling the sales, which have raised well over $500,000 continuation of for medical equipment deemed necessary for developmental care was patient comfort or safety but not funded The City of Steinbach is looking for an important through Manitoba Health programs. community participation to help consideration in the The next Bethesda Book Faire is expected create a community mosaic that will design of the BiliSoft. It to take place in the fall. become a piece of a larger picture once the project is complete.

Steinbach has been named one of the 150 communities from across the country asked to take part in the Canada 150 Mosaic Project. This fall, Steinbach will have a community painting event where residents will work together to create an 8 x 12foot mural.

In 2017, Canada will turn 150 years On March 18 and 19, the employees from Hylife in La Broquerie raised old.

Known as a country that has $170,000 for local charities during the 6th Annual Community Fundraiser.

The HyLife Fun Days is an annual vendor and employee sponsored welcomed the world through its charity fundraising event. Since its debut, the two day fundraiser focused borders, the project was launched in celebration of this milestone birthday. on hockey and broom ball competition.

Over a two-year span, a mural will “Our fundraising event brings together HyLife staff with vendors and be created, including all provinces suppliers to generate donations in the form of sponsorship whereby all net proceeds are equally divided and presented to identified charities,” said and territories, that when united will form one gigantic mural mosaic.

Charlene Ramkissoon from Hylife.

“Community members will be This year the event featured hockey and basketball, with ten teams participating. The two day event also included a vendor show, potluck invited to paint images on approximately 600 ceramic tiles that dinner, cultural show and homemade chilli dinner.

Three local charities will split the funds, including Recreation will be joined together to create our Opportunities for Children (ROC), Eden Health Care Services and the mural. 600 small stories making up the one big iconic image,” said Council.

Bethesda Foundation.

“The mural will be a symbol of teamwork by Steinbach’s diverse community as well as a link to other

Ray Maynard of BSI presents cheque to Ron Mamchuk, Councillor for RM of Ritchot, Charlie Nelson, Elder for Roseau River First Nation, Murielle Bugera, representative for the Village of St-Pierre-Jolys and President of The Crow Wing Trail Association.

The trail is the longest section of the TransCanada Trail in Manitoba.

At 191 km long, it connects Emerson to Winnipeg through the municipalities of Emerson-Franklin, De Salaberry, St. Pierre-Jolys, Niverville, Ritchot and the Roseau River First Nation.

The trail was historically used as a transportation route for goods and now used by travellers as a recreational trail to enjoy nature through bird watching, cycling,

exploring and even for historians, artists and photographers. The trail is as varied as the multicultural makeup of the region.

The BSI Because We Care initiative will see approximately $30,000 in donations annually distributed between its 15 locations and neighbouring communities. BSI recognizes the need to support local initiatives that strive to improve its communities.

Get Involved in Steinbach’s Community Mural Project

Hylife Fundraiser Boosts Community Support

Facebook Scam Alert Steinbach RCMP wants to alert the public about a current Facebook scam.

On March 11, Steinbach RCMP received a complaint where a suspect portrays themselves as a friend of the victim, posting to have received considerable monetary gain for a donation to the “International Benefits Service”.

The suspect stated that a Government issued cheque would be forwarded which can be cashed at any bank without difficulty. A photo of a stack of Canadian dollars was posted to the account showing the windfall received for participating. The victim is encouraged to also participate with a donation to receive equal cash benefits. It is uncertain if other organizations will be cited as participating in these donations.

The public is cautioned when offers appear “too good to be true” and to take appropriate precautions when using technology.

If you receive a similar request, you’re encouraged to contact the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.

communities across Canada.”

Once all of the tiles are painted and the mural is completed, it will be mounted, clear coated and photographed. The mural will remain and be displayed in Steinbach and connected virtually to the other murals on Canada150Mosaic.com.

Residents can participate in two different ways. The City is looking

for one simple iconic image that represents Steinbach, an image related to important and interesting moments that define Steinbach, its history and its citizens. Later this fall, people can come out with friends, family, and neighbours to paint some mural tiles to be put together to form the bigger picture.

To offer a suggestion visit steinbach.ca/canada-150-mosaic.

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

April 2016

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Your Help is Needed to Identify These People The Steinbach RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the following person who may be able to provide information into a current RCMP investigation.

In addition, the Steinbach RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a male who was involved in an incident in Steinbach.

The male is described as in his early 20’s, average height, and lean.

If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-3264452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Family Hockey Tournament Held in St. Malo The “Gonards” were the A side winners as the St. Malo Chamber of Commerce hosted its 26th annual family hockey tournament at the St. Malo Arena recently.

A Side winner Gonards (Gosselin-Maynard family)

B Side winner (Collette family)

C Side winner (Maynard family)

D Side Winner (Tétrault family from La Broquerie)

The Steinbach RCMP are also asking for the public’s help in identifying an unknown female who stole several items from the Steinbach Source in Clearspring Centre.

On March 8 at 7:14 pm, this female was caught on camera committing theft. She is described as heavy set with red hair and a fair complexion and she was wearing a dark coloured coat with pink running shoes.

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April 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Lighting sets the stage for outdoor fun Tis the season for making changes in and around the home.

The arrival of warmer weather renews homeowners’ vigour for various home improvement projects, and many have grand plans for interior and exterior renovations as they prep their living spaces for comfort, beauty and entertaining opportunities.

While there are many worthy projects to pursue, adding outdoor lighting to a home can help increase its value and make the home safer and more attractive in the evening hours.

According to the American Lighting Association, with a few updates to outside lighting, families can make even better use of their homes at night.

Adding outdoor lighting is easier and less expensive than many homeowners may know, allowing them to transform an existing patio, deck or pool area into an enjoyable nighttime retreat.

Pool parties, dinners on the patio or barbecues with neighbours become even more memorable when outdoor lighting is added or improved.

But homeowners who want to install or upgrade their outdoor lighting should consider the following tips, courtesy of ALA. Improve navigation Lighting is typically layered into a room or outdoor space in three ways: overhead, task and ambient. Even outdoors, where there are no typical boundaries and borders, those three layers are necessary. Outdoor overhead lighting should improve visibility on steps, paths and walking surfaces, especially where there’s a bend or an intersection. Task lighting can be used around cooking or gardening areas. Ambient light will cast a comforting glow around any outdoor space.

Enhance security to improve visibility and security, combine a motion detector with a sconce to illuminate dark corners or entryways. Be sure to aim lights away from the door to improve visibility. Lanterns on either side of the door can give a home a warm, welcoming appearance and improve the safety of entryways.

Create outdoor rooms Outdoor lighting at the borders of a space is a great way to create barriers, both vertically and horizontally. Lights in a tree create something akin to a chandelier hung in the middle of the sky, and even accent lights in the general area of the edge of a patio, deck or porch will shine across the space and provide enough of a comfort level for people to understand where things are.

Reduce glare Outdoor lighting that casts a glare can be blinding, as can light that’s too bright. Lighting along paths should be cast downward, with fixtures that are hooded. A variety of lighting options will create layers, allowing you to add or subtract as necessary. Exterior-safe dimmers also can provide flexible control over the level of light, as can movable fixtures added to a patio or porch.

Add decorative elements Just as arbours, pergolas, patios and other outdoor elements help to enhance the style of an outdoor space, so, too, can lighting contribute to a well-designed landscape. Lighting should play up decorative features of a yard and add the ambience that home owners desire. Step lights make passage safe while also highlighting molding or trim details. An outdoor chandelier can make for a wonderful accent during dinnertime on the deck or under a pergola. Patio lights provide atmosphere as well as illumination for cooking outside.

Enhance views from inside Outdoor lighting can make the view from inside pleasant and enjoyable. Use a variety of lights, including spotlights on trees, lights dotted along pathways and accent lights on unique landscape features, to create an idyllic landscape visible from inside the home.

Outdoor lighting enhances functionality of yards and landscapes while making such areas safer for homeowners and their guests once the sun has gone down.

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 device that shuts off an electric power circuit 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? Plug in a light fixture and turn it on. Then push the device’s test button. If the light stays on, the GFCI needs to be replaced. 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 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

April 2016

Secrets to keeping an organized shed Despite other intentions, homeowners often turn their garages into storage centers for random, littleused items, leaving little to no room for the tools and even vehicles that actually belong in a garage. Such homeowners may turn to sheds to store their garage overflow and keep yard equipment at the ready, but storage sheds are not immune to clutter, and homeowners may find the very structure erected to keep them organized requires a bit of organization itself.

A well-organized shed can save homeowners time and energy, as it’s easy to abandon or delay a project if you can’t find that pair of work gloves you stashed. The first step to any organizing project is to take everything out of the shed and determine just what needs to go back in. Items that Taking the time to clean and organize a shed can help make anyone more productive. do not belong in the shed should be moved to their rightful locations or tossed in the trash if they’re no longer needed.

Make a pile of anything that will be kept, a You also can repurpose storage separate one for donations and solutions designed for other areas a third for garbage. Take of the home. inventory of what you have so For example, magnetic knife you know whether you’re missing any items or you have something holders can be mounted to a shed wall to keep paintbrushes and do not need to purchase another. Now that the entire shed organized. These holders also can is empty, you can assess just how be used to keep many small metal tools tidy. Metal funnels can hold much room you have.

Utilizing vertical and overhead twine and string. Thread through the narrow end of the funnel for a space effectively can free up handy dispenser. areas on the floor for larger Keep dangerous substances off equipment. Shelving, racks, the floor and out of reach. pegboards and any other Gasoline, chemical fertilizers and materials that enable you to other potentially dangerous hang or store items off the floor substances should be stored high are good investments. up to keep pets and children safe.

Visit your nearby home improvement retailer to find items Make sure the shed floor is sturdy and level. This makes it easier to that can simplify your storage. neatly store larger items.

You also may be able to put Roll in the lawnmower, scrap wood to use to make your wheelbarrow and any other own storage shelves or a work cumbersome items. Now that bench. Extra kitchen cabinets more things are mounted can be installed in the shed to vertically, you should find that you organize additional items. In have more area to move around. order to remember where items go, label or sort them accordingly. Some people like to take organization a step further by tracing the outline of tools hung on the wall so they can be placed back in the same spot after use. This also serves as a visual reminder of which tools are missing and which ones need to be purchased. Don’t forget to utilize shed doors as additional storage space.

Hang frequently used tools, such as rakes and shovels, on the inside of the doors so they will always be easily accessible.

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April 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Regional Transit Initiative Investigated Several rural communities are working together to explore the concept of a regional transit initiative for southern Manitoba.

The RM of Ritchot has put their support towards the exploration and the concept of a Regional Transit Initiative for southern Manitoba that may include PTH 59 and PTH 75 and regional connector streets.

The project is being investigated in a partnership with the Town of Morris, the Municipality of Ritchot, the Town of Niverville, the Village of St. Pierre-Jolys, and any other participating municipalities as required.

By official resolution, the RM of Ritchot committed to the partnership in a Feasibility Component of the “Partner’s 4 Growth” application, for a “Regional Transit Initiative” for a contribution of up to a maximum of $3,333.33.

The $3,333.33 cash contribution is to be used toward the applicants/stakeholders cost share contribution of 50 per cent, so that the maximum amount of $10,000 from “Partners 4 Growth”, grant application can be applied for with the remaining $6,666.66 coming from the RM of Morris and the Town of Morris.

Former Elmdale Elementary School Principal Sentenced A sixty-one year old Steinbach man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to prostitution related charges back in January.

Garry Giesbrecht was ordered to pay a $1,200 fine and $360 in court costs along with two years unsupervised probation.

Giesbrecht plead guilty to the charge of Communicating with the Purpose of Prostitution back in January, about a year after being arrested in Winnipeg.

He is expected to be back in court later in fall to face additional prostitution-related charges.

Giesbrecht is well known in the community of Steinbach. Last June, he retired suddenly after a thirty-eight year career as a teacher, and most recently as principal for Elmdale Elementary School. He was also named Canada’s Top Principal back in 2006.

Underage Party Raided by RCMP In the late evening hours of April 2 Steinbach RCMP were the surprise guests at a house party on Cedar crescent in Steinbach. RCMP attended the location after numerous complaints were received about a large party that was possibly hosting persons who were not of the legal age to consume alcohol. RCMP shut the party down and sent party-goers on their way. RCMP issued seven Provincial Offence Notices to seven minors for consuming liquor under the Liquor and Gaming Control Act which carries a fine amount of $673.65 each. A property rep at the party was issued a Provincial Offence Notice for providing liquor to a minor also under the Liquor and Gaming Control Act which carries a fine amount of $2,543.65.

RCMP handed out a total of $7,259.20 in fines.

RCMP also arrested a 19 year old male who was attending the party. The male was found to be breaching court ordered conditions as per a recognizance he was released on at an earlier date. The male was later remanded into custody on 4 charges of Breaching his Recognizance.

Bail Monitoring Leads to Further Charges On March 24 RCMP members from the Steinbach General Duty and GIS section concluded a weapons investigation resulting in charges against two local residents.

Tanner Vogt (23) of Blumenort and Kyle Dyck (21) of Steinbach face a number of weapons and drug charges. Vogt faces further charges relating to the non-compliance of bail conditions.

Vogt remains in custody and Dyck has been released on conditions.

The non-compliance became known during routine bail checks and should serve as a reminder that bail conditions will be enforced.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Eastman Ringette Golden at WRL Playoffs

By Jeff Tutkaluk The Winnipeg Ringette League (WRL) playoffs are finished for another season and teams from Eastman brought home more than their share of gold.

Eastman was represented by 26 teams in nearly all of the 22 loops with greater representation at the younger age groups. Over 250 players from Eastman community clubs including Beausejour, Grunthal, Lorette, Red River, Springfield, Steinbach, St. Jean Baptiste and Eastman communities such as Garson, Landmark and Niverville competed in the WRL playoffs.

Eastman teams did very well at this year’s WRL playoffs winning a total of 13 medals, 7 gold, 1 silver and 5 bronze.

What is even more remarkable is that of the 11 loops in the U10 to U19 divisions where Eastman teams competed, Eastman medalled in nine of the 11 loops including seven gold medals and five bronze medals. Gold medals were captured in two U10 loops (Red River Rage and Steinbach), two U12 loops (Red River Rage and Lorette), a U14 loop (Steinbach), a U16 loop (Grunthal) and a U19 loop (Lorette).

A silver medal was captured in the Open 1 division (Eastman Blue) while five bronze medals were won in three U10 loops (Beausejour, Springfield and Grunthal), a U12 loop (Springfield), and a U19 loop (Red River Wild).

For more information on ringette programs, refer to the Eastman Ringette website at eastmanringetteleague.com or the Manitoba Ringette Association at manitobaringette.ca.

WRL U19B Champs Lorette

WRL U12A2 Champs Red River Rage

WRL U16B1 Champs Grunthal

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Street Racers to Face Judge On Saturday March 26, Steinbach RCMP received a call from an off duty RCMP officer who observed two vehicles racing on Main Street in Steinbach. One of the vehicles was located. The 20-year-old male from Mitchell was charged under the Highway Traffic Act for Racing with another motor vehicle. His vehicle was impounded for seven days and his license was suspended for seven days.

Although police could not immediately locate the second vehicle the driver of the second vehicle was located the next day. A 19-year-old female from Mitchell was charged under the Highway Traffic Act for racing with another motor vehicle.

Since there is no set fine for this offence, both offenders will need to appear at court to speak with a Justice who will assess the fines.

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Break and Enter Thieves Sought At approximately 4 am on March 14 three males broke into the Shell gas station at the intersection of Rue Principale and Hwy 52 in La Broquerie.

The three suspects stole mostly lottery tickets and cigarette packs valued at $10,000. The thieves were captured on surveillance video and police are seeking any tips that may

Quad Stolen On March 25, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a break in and theft of a quad from a garage in the back lane of Chancellor Bay in Mitchell.

The theft occurred sometime during the previous night. The quad is a white 2006 Yamaha Raptor with licence plate 3C739.

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).

RCMP Search for Stolen Honda On March 15, the Steinbach RCMP responded to a report of a stolen car from a residence on Harmony Lane in Steinbach. The car was stolen sometime between February 14 and February 15. The car is a blue 2008 Honda Odyssey Ex. Vehicle is bearing Manitoba Licence Plate GNV 495.

If you have any information in regards to the above theft you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-3264452 or CrimeStoppers at 1800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Food Bank in Ste. Anne Seeks Coordinator Accueil Kateri Centre Inc is seeking a coordinator for the Ste. Anne food bank.

This is a volunteer position, which requires approximately 15 to 20 hours per month and responsibilities include registering clients organized according to their family’s needs, coordination of volunteers, managing the inventory and coordinating food distribution.

According to Aurèle Boisvert, President of the food bank, they are looking for someone who shows empathy towards people in need, has organizational skills, has the ability to work independently and in a team environment, good communication and interpersonal skills, and has knowledge of both French and English.

For more information concerning Accueil Kateri Centre, visit the website at accueilkatericentre.ca. If interested contact Boisvert at 204-422-9042 before April 15.

lead to their identity. The culprits were last seen heading north on Rue Principale in a Dodge Caravan.

If you have any information in regards to these incidents, 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).

April 2016

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Steinbach Collision Claims Life On March 7 just after 11 am, RCMP officers were called to a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian who had been crossing Main Street at Southwood Drive, in Steinbach.

Officers arrived on scene and located both the vehicle and the pedestrian on Main Street. The pedestrian, a 79 year-old female from Steinbach was pronounced deceased at the scene. The 64 yearold male driver of the pickup truck was uninjured and remained at the scene.

A traffic analyst attended the scene and is assisting the ongoing investigation in order to establish the contributing factors of this collision. At this time, alcohol is not being considered as one of them.

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April 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch