Dawson Trail Dispatch February 2017

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Vita’s First Annual Winter Festival a Hit

The dog sled races were a huge draw during Vita’s first annual Winter Festival.

By Marianne Curtis

The toboggan slides were a huge hit for the young and the young at heart.

For two glorious days, dog sled races and sleigh rides were among the event hits when the community of Vita, hosted their very first winter festival on January 14 and 15.

Thanks to a $10,000 tourism grant, the Vita Community Recreation Centre committee was able to successfully organize the event as a fundraiser for the community’s recreation centre.

Organizer Jerry Lubiansky said the event exceeded expectations. The highlight of the weekend was two days of dog sled races. “It was brought up by the local sled dog teams, they approached the municipality and they decided that maybe we should try a winter festival featuring the sled dog races,” Lubiansky.

Several champion dog sled teams participated over the weekend, including Dave Hochman, a six time Provincial Champion and the 2008 World Champion, Rachel Courtney, the current Manitoba Champion and her husband local musher Serge Garand. The couple owns a kennel in Caliento where they train and race 58 sled dogs.

While the dog sled races were a huge draw, there were plenty of activities for everyone, including a hockey tournament, cribbage tournament, children’s activities, maple taffy making, toboggan hill, and sled rides. The evening ended with a bonfire with fireworks and a Ukrainian Malanka supper dance.

February 2017

Three Arrested After Niverville Man Attacked

Three suspects have been arrested and charged in connection with a machete attack on a man who went to check on a noise in his Niverville garage.

On January 11, a 22-year-old man from Steinbach was arrested and a 21-year-old man from Niverville was arrested the following day. The third man, also from Niverville, was arrested on Friday.

All have been charged with robbery, break and enter, assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm and using a disguise.

The third suspect, who was arrested in Morden on Friday after police issued a news release, is also charged with five counts of failing to comply with prior court conditions.

The arrests were made in connection with an incident when the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP was called just after 1:30 am on January 3 about an injured man at a home in southwest Niverville.

The 43-year-old man heard activity in his detached garage and went to check what was happening, police said. When he entered the garage, he was confronted by three male intruders who all had their faces covered.

The man was sent to hospital for treatment.

RCMP Want Help Identifying Owners of Stolen Goods Discovered On January 8, the Steinbach RCMP responded to a break and enter to a garage that had just occurred on Poplar Crescent in Steinbach.

As a result of the investigation, four youths were arrested. The RCMP are currently in possession of several recovered stolen items (bicycles, skate board) and are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying ownership of these items.

Several vehicles and garages are believed to have been gone through in the Walnut Street, Pine Crescent, Spruce Crescent, Reimer Avenue, Poplar Crescent, and Rosewood Drive areas.

If you have any information or if you have noticed items missing on our about January 8, 2017, please contact Cst. Trim, Steinbach RCMP, at 204-320-8214 in order to set a time to view the items.

February 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Community Rallies Around Kleefeld Family

By Marianne Curtis The community has rallied around a Kleefeld family as they began picking up the pieces after a devastating fire destroyed their house. While the family of fifteen was left homeless, no one was injured in the January 15 blaze.

“It’s just difficult, it’s hard, I can’t talk too much,” said homeowner Jakob Bool.

According to reports, the fire started at around 3:30 pm, when the family noticed smoke spewing out of the garage. Bool said he, his wife, and 13 of his children all got out safe through the back door. “We ran through the patio door, and then ran through deep snow to the neighbour,” Bool said. No one was injured.

Fire crews from New Bothwell, Kleefeld, and Grunthal got the alarm at 2:30 pm. Despite firefighters best efforts, the house and contents were a complete loss.

This is not the first tragedy this family has endured in recent months. In No-

Dawson Trail Dispatch vember, they lost their son Florian in a car accident in a head on collision north of home.

Not only is the home a complete loss, but all memories of their son including his musical instruments, keepsakes and photos are gone.

After the fire, the family stayed with Bool’s brother-in-law Waldo Werner until other living arrangements were made. “We are doing everything to help, physically we can help a lot, but emotionally it’s not that easy,” Werner told media.

Fire investigators believe the blaze was caused by a small extension cord plugged into a fridge in the garage. “The fridge was sitting on top of the burnt cord,” Ken Giersch, a senior fire investigator said, pointing to a burnt extension cord. “People should be looking at the extension cords that they have in their homes, and replace them by directly plugging in the appliance to an outlet,” he added.

The Bool family plans to rent a vacant house next door, while their own house is rebuilt.

Meanwhile, neighbors and their church community have stepped in to help. A GoFundMe page located at gofundme.com/family-looses-house-in-fire sits at over $44,000.

More than half of that was raised in one day.

A mid afternoon house fire on January 15 left a Kleefeld family of fifteen homeless.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

Piney Invites Residents for Coffee Residents in the RM of Piney will have several opportunities to meet with their elected representatives during special “Coffee with Council” meetings.

According to Council, the purpose of the meetings is to give ratepayers within the RM of Piney an opportunity to join Council for coffee and voice concerns or ask any questions they may have.

The three meetings will take place February 9 at the Sprague Evergreen Seniors Club, February 13 at the Over 40 Club in Piney and February 16 at the Woodridge Community Hall.

All meetings will start at 7 pm and run until 9 pm.

Search on for Stolen Truck On December 31, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen truck from Steinbach.

The truck is described as a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado, grey in colour with Stonybrook painting Decal on the back window and Manitoba plate CEB 497.

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 1-800222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Niverville Residents Fight Back on Crime

By Marianne Curtis Niverville residents are banding together to improve the safety of the entire community after an incident in January that saw a local man attacked by would be thieves in his garage.

On January 3, a 43-year-old man was attacked after checking out the noise coming from his garage. According to RCMP, there were three intruders in the garage, all of whom had their faces covered.

One of them used a machete in the attack, which left the homeowner with non-life-threatening injuries.

Within hours of the incident, local resident Barry Piasta called a meeting to gather as many people as possible to discuss the rising incidents of crime in the community.

“I was quite shocked … frightened, angry, a little bit of all that,” said Piasta. “Niverville is a tiny community and we consider everybody family out here.”

Piasta organized a community meeting at the Niverville arena.

The Mayor, members of the Town Council and a member of the RCMP attended to take questions and concerns from residents. “This meeting is to basically to get everybody to come together as a community and start watching for each other and get ideas about what we can each do to make our community a safer place,” Piasta said.

Piasta, who has lived in the town for five years, said crime has spiked in the short time he has been there

Provincial Health Minister Kelvin Goertzen said Manitobans who live along the US border and covered by a special agreement with the state of Minnesota might want to consider buying private health insurance in the case of an emergency.

Goertzen said Manitobans who are, “Regularly crossing the border for a variety of reasons… I think the people within the healthcare system would say it wouldn’t be bad to have [additional] insurance.”

Goertzen’s comments came after 60-year-old Robin Milne spoke publicly about $118,000 in medical bills he was left with after he received emergency treatment in the US. Milne who lives in Sprague, was charged about CDN $118,000 after

Four Arrested and Facing Numerous Charges On January 25 at approximately 4 am, St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP responded to an attempted break-in at a business in St. Adolphe. The suspects failed to gain entry to the business. While police were on scene, they received another dispatch to a break-in at a business in Lorette. Officers responded immediately and were able to intercept a vehicle matching the description of the vehicle from the St. Adolphe report.

Police seized numerous bottles of alcohol stolen from the business in Lorette and the four occupants of the vehicle were arrested without incident.

Remanded into custody and charged were a 20-year-old male from Iles Des Chenes, a 19-year-old female from Niverville, Brett Kehler, a 20-year-old male, from Niverville and Valeri Plaksin, a 20-year-old male from Brooks, Alberta. Plaksin and Kehler remained in custody while the other two were released pending a future court date.

The four are facing numerous charges, including 2 counts of break and enter to a business, impaired operation of a vehicle, driving over .08, possession of property obtained by crime, possession of break and enter tool, breach of probation, breach of recognizance and possession of a controlled substance.

Residents of Niverville met to discuss safety and policing concerns after a local man was attacked in his own garage during an attempted break-in.

and break-ins have become a weekly occurrence.

What the majority if people agreed upon at the meeting was that more police presence was needed in the community. “I believe that they can readdress their budgets to increase police presence within this town.”

Piasta said he thinks the town is an easy target partly because there is no locally stationed police force. The town is served by the RCMP detachment in either St. Pierre-Jolys, or from Steinbach. “The closest police car is, on a good day; say 15 to 20 minutes away. And with bad weather it would be longer,” he said.

In addition, Niverville is close to Winnipeg, so criminals can do a

quick drive for a smash-and-grab, he added.

Until the policing issue is addressed, the community has decided not to sit idle. Piasta brought together different partners and created the Connect Community approach to improve security and safety in the community. “It’s not just a one method approach; we are working in partnership with Guardian Advanced Solutions, Honeywell and local businesses, to create a new innovative crime prevention deterrent,” said Piasta. Using video, social media, patrols and other means available, Piasta hopes that Niverville will become a quiet community again.

Border Town Medical Bills Cause Alarm

by Marianne Curtis

February 2017

suffering a heart attack in October.

Doctors were unable to perform the operation needed to save his life.

After waiting 90 minutes without an arrival time for STARS, a US based ambulance service flew him to Grand Forks for the procedure. He was then hospitalized for two days.

The bill was supposed to be covered through the Altru Medical System, a longstanding agreement that permits residents in parts of southeast Manitoba to receive emergency medical treatment at hospitals in Roseau or Warroad, Minnesota.

Goertzen said he feels for the families but for now, his hands are tied. “No minister, me or any of the previous ones, has the legislative, the legal authority, to direct payment under the Health Services Act. It is actually illegal for a minister to

Robert Munsch Pyjama Party The biggest pyjama party in town and live theatre show featuring Robert Munsch Stories drew in a sold out crowd on January 20.

SAC Pyjama Party

direct payment,” he said.

Meanwhile, Milne’s wife has taken on a second job and the couple is considering taking out a second mortgage on their home to pay the bills.

Goertzen now wants a formal review of the agreement and the appeal process available to residents who are refused coverage. He confirmed that there are about nine known appeals in recent years. “The vast majority, were denied under the previous NDP government.”

He also wants to ensure medical professionals in the US and resident in community such as Sprague fully understand the coverage they have.

The province has not confirmed whether it will repay Milne nor is it clear when the review of the crossborder agreement will take place.

Police seized numerous bottles of alcohol stolen from the business in Lorette

RM Ritchot Community Takes Stance with COPP Program

Residents within the RM of Ritchot are taking a proactive stance against the ever-increasing crime in the various communities by forming the first Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) group to operate within its boundaries. The newly registered Ritchot COPP group is also the only crime prevention group operating within the municipality.

The Ritchot COPP group was formed after months of increased thefts, break and enters and vehicle lootings that took place throughout the communities. So far, volunteers have stepped forward who are interested in patrolling and other crime prevention activities in Ste. Agathe, St. Adolphe, Grande Pointe and Ile des Chenes.

The main goal of the Citizens on Patrol Program is to be on the lookout for any suspicious or criminal activity, to record this activity and, where appropriate, to report such activities to the police. COPP members act as additional “eyes and ears” for their community and the police, which assists in reducing crime.

Ritchot COPP Coordinator Marianne Curtis said the group was a direct result of numerous requests from local residents for a neighbourhood watch or increase in policing. “We’ve had a rash of incidents in recent months; it seems like thieves move, pick a night and go from community to community looking for vulnerable areas,” explained Curtis. “Everyone is feeling vulnerable, so I decided to take action.”

Tracy Douglass, Citizens on Patrol Program Provincial Coordinator, welcomed the Ritchot COPP on board. “We are always happy when a community takes the initiative to protect their communities because we care about the safety of our communities,” Douglass stated. “MPI provides support in terms such as paying expenses for the provincial boards; provide equipment for the volunteers, training and a full time employee to work with the groups.”

Constable Nicholas Lamothe is the Liaison Officer between the group and Ritchot COPP. “There are cases where we might be on a call in another town and if you see something, you can let us know; it expands the information that we have as well,” said Lamothe. “It is a team effort, unfortunately we can’t be everywhere at once, but we can work together and make our communities safer.”

The group plans to provide a presence in the community through patrolling by vehicle, by foot, by bicycle or other means, as required. They will also provide education about crime prevention and increase awareness on crime-related issues such as theft, auto theft and speeding.

Volunteers are required to ensure the success of the program. All that is needed is a criminal record check. To become a volunteer email ritchotCOPP@gmail.com or call 204-794-1207 for more information.

February 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Standing Up for Canadians As Parliament resumes this week, the Conservative Caucus has important work to do. As we come out of our caucus retreat in Quebec City, we enter 2017 as a strong, united and focused Official Opposition.

We will continue to work hard to hold Prime Minister Trudeau accountable for raising taxes, introducing policies that have stalled job growth, and his questionable ethics.

Full-time job growth has been dismal since Justin Trudeau was first elected. Instead of focusing on building our economy, he decided to bring in a new carbon tax. This is on top of a CPP tax hike and possible new taxes on health and dental plans. Even popular programs such as tax-free savings accounts have been slashed. With the recent election of Donald Trump, Justin Trudeau must get serious about securing Canadian jobs in the face of protectionism and lower taxes for businesses in the United States.

As Conservatives, we remain respectful, but unapologetic and forceful in taking on a government that has shown shocking arrogance and elitism and a lack of transparency. Prime Minister Trudeau has collected big donations at parties with billionaires in exchange for access to him. This cash-for-access fundraising is wrong and potentially illegal. He has also blatantly ignored the Conflict of Interest Act in accepting private helicopter flights to and from a private island owned by the Aga Khan. It’s time for Justin Trudeau to get serious, follow the rules, and clean up this trend of unethical behaviour.

As we move through this new session of Parliament, our Conservative Caucus will continue to stand up for everyday Canadians. We will continue in our efforts to right this ship - before it’s too late.

You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204326-9889. You may also write my office at 76 PTH 12 N, Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4, e-mail me at ted.falk.c1@parl.gc.ca or visit my website at tedfalk.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

The Pipeline Debate This is just a side issue in the energy debate. So why don’t we start from there?

It is obvious that crude oil is still a necessary product in our every day needs. Our health, lodgings, heating and cooling, food and transportation all depend on it, keeping in mind that our country is 6,000 km long and stretches pretty far north. To argue that we must transition to other forms of energy has become obvious and even urgent perhaps, but what and when is not universally available as of yet.

I’m sure I am not the only one who seethes at the protesters who travel in every mode of transportation, to go anywhere and burn excess fuel, to be part of a photo op with whatever music or movie star is protesting that day and needs to be seen on the right side by doing absolutely nothing but burning unnecessary fuel.

The last two very important persons that graced our presence that I can think of are Neil Young and Jane Fonda, smiling for the camera and doing what exactly, I am not sure, but if they didn’t fly their brooms here they were wasting precious energy and encouraging hundreds of bored people who apparently have nothing better to do than appear concerned.

Why don’t you pool your extra dollars so society can invent a better and a greener mode of energy? Wouldn’t this be more productive? I can remember hearing from a protester in North Dakota saying in an interview, she was lucky to have brought a generator as her tent was cold at night. Everybody who desires to protest should bring a mirror along to remind yourselves that your part of the solution and it’s a bit more difficult to find it than originally thought of. And once your fun camping trip is over, it’s time to re-engage in looking for solution.

To those of us who know that crude oil is still part of the ugly truth also realize that pipelines are the safest mode of moving this product. For those who feel we should import all of our needs should explain how this is a greener solution for the globe.

Taxing this oil energy will force us to join forces to look for a solution. When the cost becomes painful, the focus will sharpen. Human nature at work. Isn’t it wonderful to see? Just in case your mind wanders bring your mirror along for the ride so, you can identify who is not doing his or her fair share.

RM of La Broquerie Launches New Communication Technology The RM of La Broquerie has launched new municipal tools that are integrated with a new mobile app “iTown”. The new municipal app allows residents and the municipal office the ability to submit service requests and questions from their smartphones that can be automatically routed to the appropriate person for action.

The app will allow staff to track and report on all public service requests from the office or their phones and ensure items are addressed in a timely manner, alert residents with push messages to their phones about items such as road closures, water outages, service interruptions and other relevant municipal information.

The municipality will also be able to provide residents with local notices, meeting documents, council decisions, weather reports, business links and events and the ability to submit public notices or events to the municipal website.

Not only does iTown open a door to the municipal office 24/7, other programs such as All-Net Meetings also save the municipality time and money in the preparation and management of council meetings.

By implementing Service Tracker, the municipal office can now immediately route all service requests to the appropriate staff person and ratepayer requests can be dealt within a timelier manner. Furthermore,

managers can now track and report on municipal activities as information is now available when making planning and budgetary decisions for the future.

The tools launched are all about saving the municipality time, money and the environment while improving communication and accountability to local residents. “iTown” is the creation of a Canadian municipal software company All-Net.ca. The program brings together years of municipal software development into an app that can be applied in any municipal setting.

Visit labroquerie.com to download the app.

Letter to the Editor: Wake Up MPI Dear Editor: I live in Richer. On November 10, 2016, perpetrators broke into my locked storage shed and stole my 2009 GMC truck.

Autopac had licensed my truck as RED and not the actual colour, BURGUNDY. Wake up MPI. When is a dark burgundy, red?

RCMP followed registration information and were looking for a red truck. People are in such a hurry to poke fun and say police don’t do their job properly. I personally disagree. How can they when vehicle registration information is incorrect?

Beware Manitoba drivers. I strongly urge you to check the colour of your vehicle on your registration and if incorrect, complain to MPI to get it changed. I wouldn’t want to see what happened to me, happen to you. Fortunately, my daughter called the auto dealer and obtained the picture of the truck, and then forwarded it to the police. They now had the correct colour description which helped the investigation. They were able to promptly solve the crime.

If anyone wants to see my so-called “red” truck, pick up a copy of the December issue of the Dawson Trail Dispatch, page 9. I dare anyone to call my truck red.

Good luck drivers - and especially good luck to MPI. Jerry Main

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Niverville and Lorette RCMP Satellite Offices Reopen For the first time in two years, residents living within the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP detachment can access administrative services in their own communities.

On January 23, the RCMP satellite offices in Lorette and Niverville reopened after the RM of Tache and the Town of Niverville successfully found a suitable candidate to fill the position.

“Ever since the satellite office had the previous police secretary resign we have been searching a variety of options to see our office re-staffed,” stated Niverville Mayor Myron Dyck. “We knew that perhaps we didn’t have enough work for a full time position, it involved training someone so that they meet the RCMP requirements. That individual was found and training began in December.”

The costs for the full time position are shared between the RM of Tache and Niverville.

Each office will be open twenty hours per week with Lorette in the morning and Niverville in the afternoon.

Now that the are satellite offices operational, staff is available to accept citizen inquiries, complaints, provide information, address concerns, dispatch necessary information to on duty officers in response to calls for service, initiate and create files, maintain databases, and conduct Criminal Record checks.

The new office hours for the Lorette satellite office are Monday to Friday, 8 am to 12 pm and at the Niverville office hours are Monday to Friday from 1:15 to 5 pm.

Community Forum on Fentanyl and Other Drugs With the growing concern about the presence of fentanyl in Manitoba, the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba (AFM) announced that it will be hosting a series of community forums across the province to increase awareness and provide information about fentanyl and other drugs for youth and families.

A forum in Steinbach will be hosted on February 16 from 7 – 9 pm at the Steinbach Regional Secondary School.

“We know that parents and young people are looking for more information about the facts and dangers of fentanyl and other drugs,” said Ben Fry, CEO, AFM. “That is why we have organized these community forums to give Manitobans more opportunities to get the information they need to know from the experts. Talking about drugs like fentanyl is the best way to keep kids safe.”

The forum will feature presentations by experts from the AFM, as well as from law enforcement, health care, and other community organizations.

Everyone is welcome and the forum will be free to attend.

Making Us Ready for Business I had the pleasure and honour this month of attending the 34th annual Red River Basin Land & Water International Summit Conference in Fargo, ND. The great thing about this summit is that it examines solutions not based on the Canada-US border and other jurisdictional boundaries, but rather by the needs of the entire region.

The Red River Basin Commission has established a strategy to decrease basin-wide flood damage through flow reduction. The overall concept of the strategy is the pursuit of flood-reduction projects to address local concerns, with the final goal to attain a 20 per cent flow reduction on the Red River’s main stem.

Flooding and its damages are serious issues in the Red River Basin, but other matters must be taken into consideration as well. It was agreed that how the commission and local groups develop these projects must balance flood-damage reduction and other concerns, such as ensuring that economic efficiency is maintained.

Separately, I am proud to announce as well that as our new government works to rebuild Manitoba’s economy, we have secured a historic investment in our province’s agricultural sector and food-processing industry.

The France-based company Roquette will construct a $400-million pea-processing facility near Portage la Prairie, making it one of the largest-ever private-sector investments in our province. The plant will provide an enormous boost to Manitoba’s agricultural economy and create stronger markets for farmers here and across Canada.

The Roquette plant will be the world’s largest facility dedicated to the processing of pea protein, and will create approximately 150 jobs with an estimated annual payroll of $9 million. In addition to those jobs are 350 positions to be created during the project’s two-year design and construction phase, which will begin this year. This project will not only support the future of our food-processing industry, but will benefit Manitoba’s economy for decades.

This investment demonstrates how our Progressive Conservative government is making Manitoba ready to compete for investments in production and innovation. After the previous government’s decade of decline, our province is once again open for business!

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

February 2017

Let’s Talk About Community Initiatives and Red Tape On February 8, please join me for a coffee at 7 pm at the Timberline Restaurant in Richer. This is a great opportunity to meet in person, discuss community initiatives and contribute in the discussion on how your government is continuing to work hard for all Manitobans.

Some of the ways we’ve been working in Dawson Trail is by providing funding for community projects to better serve you. A few of the projects include renovations to Le Club Amical de St. Adolphe Inc. for upgrades to the rear entry and washrooms, a new playground structure and outdoor classroom for Sainte-Anne Immersion, a rebuild of the wheelchair ramp and renovations to the washroom facilities at the Lorette Community Complex and park playground upgrades and installation at Spirit Park in Lorette.

These are only some projects approved under the Community Places Program for Dawson Trail. I would like to thank and acknowledge all the people involved in these projects, as they should be very proud of the work they undertake as community members, staff and volunteers to make our community vibrant.

As the month kicks off, I will also be out in the community visiting many groups and students as part of February’s “I Love to Read Month”. Whether at home, school or work it is a great time to take a few minutes to appreciate literature in all forms.

Next month, all 57 MLAs step back into the Legislature and our government has many great things to work toward. The much-anticipated Red Tape Reduction work has begun and I invite everyone to submit their ideas through the website at gov. mb.ca/reduceredtape or by emailing your suggestions to my office.

This input and consultation process is another step to simplifying the rules, forms and regulations that assist and serve businesses, non-profit organizations and individuals. By 2020, our government is committed to being the most improved province in this area.

If you have any questions or would like to know more, please contact me at 204-8074663 or by e-mail at bob.lagasse@leg.gov.mb.ca.

February 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Manitoba RCMP Use Naloxone Kits for First Time Family Day!….Fringe Fest in Steinbach - Louis Riel Day…Monday, February 20.

Enjoy Fringe Fest featuring local talented artists at The Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre.

3 Shows: 1:30 pm – Phoebe’s Friends Improv Show, 3 pm – Merry Men and 4:30 pm The Complete Works of William Shakespeare.

Tickets at SAC Office or online steinbachartscouncil.ca. $10 per show – 2 or more shows $8 each.

Don’t Miss the next Canvas & Cabernet nights…For Beginners!

Wednesday, February 8 – Lovers in the Rain; Wednesday, February 22 - Under The Sea and Thursday, March 23 – Spring Flowers!

Check our website for the creative themes and more details. So popular, filling up fast, limited numbers.

Sign up now online.

For $35, each night includes fun filled creative themes, appetizers and wine/beverage, instruction, supplies and instruction by talented accomplished artists, Gabrielle Doll and Arlene Enns from 6:30 – 9 pm.

Our local artists at the Niverville Heritage Centre on Friday, Saturday, Sunday February 3, 4 and 5 are performing the Mousetrap. Tix available at SAC. Project Worship Concert We are pleased to be a partner with the Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church and Danny Plett, worship leader in this exciting project.

Mark your calendars! Friday, February 17 and Monday, February 18 at 7 pm, at the Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church, 360 McKenzie Ave. A mass community choir, directed by Danny Plett, has been rehearsing over the past several months and will be performing on these dates. This event is free, with an offering. Come and be inspired, and enjoy the music!

Fusion Musical Theatre Workshops – Get signed up today! $35 a workshop – and only $20 if you auditioned for Wizard of Oz. Call to register.

Ages 9-14 and 15-19. MUSIC DANCE DRAMA workshops by some of the industries finest…exExperience the First Painting & pand your triple threat skills!

Pinot… for more Experienced Artists Don’t miss out on other FUSION Thursday, February 9 - Cubism, Musical Theatre Workshops: Artist of Inspiration: Pablo Picasso, Acting the Part – Thursday, FebruThursday, February 23 Impression- ary 16 from 7 - 9 pm. ism, Artist of Inspiration: Salvador Dance Your Feet Off – Thursday, Dali and Thursday, March 9 Surre- March 23 from 6 - 8 pm. alism, Artist of Inspiration: Claude Monet.

SPAC….the Steinbach PerformSomething new for those artists ing Arts Centre who are a little more experienced, Friends of SPAC are in full moand ready for more advanced paint- tion fundraising for this Centre and ing challenges. Get out of ‘your receiving positive responses from box’, try some new techniques…ex- potential funders. Watch for the plore the world of creative ‘isms’ upcoming Facebook and website with talented instructor, Gabrielle on this amazing community projDoll. ect! There will be opportunities to Sign up today! …Only $35 per participate at the Naming Rights session - $105 for all three. Dis- levels, to buy a Seat Campaign and count for all our SEA and Buy or more. Lots of excitement in the Lease members - $30 each, or $90 air….Stay tuned! for all three.

Each night includes instruction, Visual Arts…you can still regisart supplies, delicious appetizers, ter! and wine. Limited spaces, so call in Digital Photography, NEW! Art today!

X-Travaganza for Adults, Abstract Acrylics, Contemporary Acrylics, Calling all Artists! The 19th An- Watercolours, Beginner Oil Paintnual Southeast Open Judge Art ing and Intro to the Pottery Wheel.

Exhibit Zumba - We are proud to partApplications due by Wednesday, ner with XCOMPANY Steinbach February 15 - available online. for Zumba 2017! Call us for more details!

It’s Coming!...Summer in the City Community Programs Applications for performers, artists Language Classes – French Beand vendors are now online– check ginner I & II; NEW! Intermediate out the website steinbachartscoun- 1; Spanish Beginner 1 & 2. cil.ca or summerinthecity.ca. DeadCooking – Creative Cooking, line is Friday, March 10.

Cake X-Travaganza Workshop, NEW! Teen Cuisine Cooking.

Upcoming Concerts NEW! Couples Cooking WorkGet your tickets for Sunday, March shop 5 featuring Twin Kennedy – Dynamic Twin sisters’ talented musi- Lights! Camera! Action!...Come cians, fiddling, guitar and voice! join our creative team! NEW! Don’t’ miss out…The Wizard Film Making Club – Square 1 Enof Oz is coming to Steinbach in tertainment – learn all the aspects, April….tickets are already half sold. new skills, and new friends! Come The hottest tickets in town – pur- and check it out! Group meets evchase online. ery Tuesday from 7 – 9 pm.

At approximately 11 pm on Friday, January 14 Manitoba RCMP responded to a call of a possible fentanyl overdose at a residence in the southeast corner of the province. Reports indicated that a 20-year-old male was unconscious and not breathing.

Officers arrived on scene and located an unconscious male with a very low pulse and severe breathing difficulties. With an ambulance en-route but still 8 minutes away, officers administered the first dose of nasal nalaxone. While the victim improved, the breathing difficulties continued, the officers then administered two more doses in recommended intervals. The victim’s pulse and breathing quickly stabilized and he was transported to hospital. He has since been released.

This is the first time nasal naloxone has been used by the RCMP in Manitoba. “There is no doubt in our minds that those officers saved the life of this young man,” said Supt. Joanne Keeping, East District Commander of the Manitoba RCMP. “I cannot stress enough the value of having these kits with our officers; it saves lives and is critical to the safety of all first responders.”

Suspected fentanyl was seized at the location.

To protect the identity of the victim, the RCMP will not be providing any specific details about the location of the incident.

Providence to Host Classic Peanuts Production After a one-year hiatus, Providence is once again set to stage its annual major production. The musical “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” will be performed February 16 - 18 in the R.W. Affleck Chapel on the Otterburne campus.

Based on the comic strip “Peanuts” by Charles M. Schulz, Clark Gesner’s musical comedy premiered in Manhattan’s East Village in 1967 and debuted on Broadway in 1971. It depicts, as Gesner has written, “A day made up of little moments picked from all the days of Charlie Brown,” and it will connect, said Director David Klassen, with audiences young and old.

“It’s accessible for kids, families and adults who have enjoyed “Peanuts” their entire lives,” explained Klassen. “Creating a university-level show with Providence students was a great way to reintroduce the world of theatre and musical theatre to the Providence community.”

Klassen, Instructor of Music and Theatre at Providence and a member of the music faculty at both Canadian Mennonite University and the University of Manitoba, said Providence students have been a “pleasure” to work with.

“They are open to learning; they are enthusiastic about performing for a receptive audience, and they are genuinely appreciative of the process,” he said. “They learn so much more than just the lines and the music.

They work hard and understand the dedication required to put something like this together.”

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown will begin at 7:30 pm on each of February 16, 17 and 18, with doors opening at 7 pm. Advance tickets are $10 ($8 for students) and can be purchased online. Door prices are $12 ($10 for students). High school students can take in the show February 15 at 1 pm, free of charge.

Tips Thieves Identified On January 2, Steinbach RCMP responded to a theft that took place early that morning at approximately 4:30 am. Two individuals purchased subs from the Subway on Park Avenue in Steinbach. One individual hopped over to the Taco Del Mar side and took the tip jar which contained an undisclosed amount of change. He then tried to open the register but was not able to do so. Both males left the premise before anyone noticed.

The RCMP have identified these two individuals.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Vita Athlete Named Tri-Star

Sheradin Ascoli.

A grade 12 student from Shevchenko School in Vita has become the most recent athlete from the southeast to be named as Tire Recycle Rural High School Athlete of the Week.

On January 24, Sheradin Ascoli of the Shevchenko Sabres basketball team became the third local student to earn this honour during the 2016 - 2017 school year.

In two recent tournaments, Sheradin Ascoli of the Shevchenko Sabres basketball team led her Sabres to two, second place tournament finishes.

This earned her the recognition of being named Player of the Game at both games.

The 5’1” point guard, Ascoli also helped the Sabres earn three wins in three league games this season. “Sheradin is a tough and dedicated athlete. She is always unwavering when she is on the basketball court both offensively and defensively,” said Penny Hovorka-Alcock. “She is an admirable team leader who always keeps the team optimistic through her calm, quiet manner that always includes a smile on her face, no matter how tough the game may be.”

When not on the court, she maintains an 86% academic average, while also participating in soccer and baseball.

Truck Stripped on Highway Between 4:30 pm on January 22 and 6 am on January 23, property was taken from a motor vehicle parked on the side of Highway 205 in the RM of Hanover. Parts of the vehicle were removed, along with tires and electronic equipment.

If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

February 2017

Lorette Scorpions Earn Gold in Winkler

Lorette Scorpions earned a Gold medal at Winkler Invitational High School Tournament.

Lorette Collegiate’s varsity hockey team is celebrating their gold medal after dominating a high school tournament in Winkler.

On January 13 and 14, the team brought home gold after a weekend of exciting action at the Winkler Invitational High School Tournament.

The boys won three games in total. In the first game, they beat out the Miles Macdonell Buckeyes with a score of 6 - 5. In their second game against the Winkler’s own Garden Valley Zodiacs, the team once again finished with a 5 - 2 score.

Things got exciting in the final game against the WC Millar Aces, from Altona. The game was tied 1 - 1 after three periods. Then in an overtime period, the play still resulted in a 1-1 tie. Lorette took home the gold after winning the shootout with 2-1.

Lorette plays in this invitational high school tournament every year and although they have come close in the past, they have never won the tournament championship. The boys played very hard all weekend and even played shorthanded. In the second game, the team had only 2 lines and 4 defence.

The Lorette Scorpions play in the Winnipeg High School Hockey League in the B Division, which this year, is comprised of sixteen teams.

February 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Clinic Approved Construction Moves for Ile Des Chenes Along on Tache Office

By Marianne Curtis The RM of Ritchot Council recently gave the green light for the construction of a new medical clinic in Ile des Chenes after a special meeting.

On January 17, a special meeting took place to discuss a variation application by Dr. Philip M. A Hughes to vary the number of attached accessory dwellings above a commercial building from one to four, to vary the rear yard distance of 25 ft to 15 ft, and to vary the north and south side yard distances from 10 ft to 4 ft and 5 ft for the construction of a commercial building.

In October, Council had denied a side yard variance application from Dr. Hughes. When the proposal crossed the table, it was denied due to the lack of a tie-breaking vote.

Instead of walking away from the project, Hughes applied again.

This time, Council approved the proposal for the medical centre, plus residential units despite opposition from Ile des Chenes Councilor Ernie Dumaine and Grande Point representative Colleen Webb. At the hearing, Dumaine maintained his concern that renters too close to the schools posed a potential danger to children.

Dr. Hughes lives in Ile des Chenes and currently practices medicine out

of an office at the back of the local pharmacy part time while maintaining a practice in Winnipeg. The current location is sufficient, but the growing demand for services in the limited space warranted a plan to establish his own office on Main Street.

“I bought that piece of property on Main Street with the plans to build a two story building for a clinic and to bring other practitioners to the community,” Hughes explained. “I do not understand why two councillors are so opposed to the project.”

Dr. Hughes proposed that the new building would have commercial bottom units and the top units would be rental residential. He said that if the units do not rent out, they can easily be converted into commercial units, although there may not be a need for top floor commercial units in the community.

Hughes said that the issue with Council seems to be the rental suites upstairs. “If I am going to invest over a million dollars to build a new building, I want to make sure that I have steady income to support it,” Hughes continued.

The project can now proceed to the next step. Dr. Hughes plans to invest $1 million of his own money into the project and said he will not require any government funding.

Snowmobilers Reminded of Steinbach City Bylaws This winter has brought plenty of snow to the delight of snowmobiling enthusiasts and the City of Steinbach is reminding snowmobilers that the city has a Snowmobile By-Law in place to ensure the fun and safety of everyone participating in the sport.

When operating snowmobiles within Steinbach, snowmobiles must be operated with due care and attention, and in consideration for other persons and property. They are not are not permitted to trespass across private property including the golf course, and in City parks, cemeteries, on sidewalks, or boulevards.

According to the bylaw, snowmobiles may be operated within the city on any street for the purpose of taking the most direct route in and out of the city to and from the rider’s place of residence.

They must be driven as close to the right hand edge of the street as possible and in a single line with other snowmobiles.

The maximum speed within city limits is 20 km/hr during the hours of 7 am to 11 pm.

Snowmobile operators are not permitted to cross Provincial Trunk Highways within the urban area of the city. There are signs placed along the designated trails.

Questions regarding the Snowmobile By-Law may be directed, during regular business hours to the City of Steinbach Community Services Officer at 204-346-6561. Complaints regarding Snowmobile By-Law offenders may be directed to the Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-1234.

The new RM of Tache municipal office, at the junction of PR #206 and Highway #1 is taking shape.

Construction on the new RM of Tache office at the corner of Highway #1 and PR 206 is moving along. The municipality expects that the new $4 million building will be ready for opening this summer.

Mayor Robert Rivard said the municipality has decided to construct a brand new municipal

building, outside of the community.

The RM of Tache has been trying to move towards a new office building for over ten years. The plan to build a public works building and a municipal office together would save Tache considerable money.

The last time the RM of Tache looked into a quote for a new office, the project was estimated to cost up

Photo by Marianne Curtis

to $2 million.

Construction of the new municipal office building began last summer and expected to be complete in one year. Once the municipality moves out of the current public works building in Lorette, it will become the shop for the LUD of Lorette.

Fundraising Begins on Lorette Skatepark

By Marianne Curtis The Lorette Skatepark Committee a sub committee of the Tache Community Development Corporation is officially launching its fundraising campaign.

The goal is to raise $150,000 for the project after Council passed the motion to provide land.

The new skate park will be located on the CCLCC grounds, with the exact location to be determined in the new development plan. The Committee is hoping to have the plans ready by the Family Fun Days this fall.

The project is expected to be funded through two phases. Phase 1 is currently underway, and dedicated to finding sponsors in local businesses, organizations and governments. Donations have already started coming in. The LUD of Lorette has committed $20,000 and the Tache Community Development Corporation (CDC) has pledged $9,000. Other organizations are planning events such as the The Chateau Lorette Condo Corporation that held a bud and spud fundraiser on January 20 raising $2,220 towards the park.

“We need to obtain the majority

of our funding from Phase 1. Grant requests are underway and our sponsorship package will be published shortly,” stated a spokesperson for the Lorette Skatepark Committee.

Phase 2 will commence in the spring, with a public fundraising campaign that includes a community BBQ and pro skateboard show. This phase is expected to promote several different fundraising events to engage the public and take ownership of the project.

A campaign specific to the local schools will also be rolled out in 2017.

Health Violations Close Steinbach Eatery Manitoba Health recently published its latest round of restaurant closures and a Steinbach business is one of dozens of food service establishments in the province, ranging from well-known establishments to smaller bistros that were ordered to be temporarily closed.

The list of closures includes that Fortune Kitchen, located at 254 Main Street in Steinbach, which was shut down by Manitoba Health from November 4 to November 7.

The report states that Fortune Kitchen was closed due to, “Repeat violations related to storing potentially hazardous foods at unsafe temperatures; no sanitizer being used and poor sanitation.”

The restaurant reopened November 8.

Also in Steinbach, Smitty’s Restaurant was convicted and fined for Improper Storage of Food, and Maintaining Potentially hazardous foods at a safe internal temperature. On March 10, they were fined $288.50 and $487.15 for these offenses.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

SnowMan Festival Makes Debut in Ile des Chenes

Melanie Palud and Celeste Ritchot enjoy the new toboggan run that has been prepared for the first annual Ile des Chenes SnowMan Festival that is taking place on February 11.

Submitted photo

On February 11, the first annual SnowMan Festival is taking place in Ile des Chenes.

Hosted by the Ritchot Regional Chamber of Commerce, the one-day event is expected to draw families to the TransCanada Centre for a family friendly snow day.

According to Marc Palud, Vice-President of the Chamber and one of the organizers of the event, the festival was the springboard from an idea proposed by a local business owner.

“The idea originated from Chris Ewen to have a community winter festival for Ile Des Chenes and the idea of a snowman building competition was Yvette Bernat’s,” explained Palud. “A while back, there was a figure skating type of event and other than that; IDC has a lot of hockey tournaments but no formal winter festival day. We wanted to celebrate winter with an annual community event.”

While the Chamber is spearheading the event, the festival is entirely volunteer sponsored and driven. A list of activities based on ideas from people in the community was compiled and the community was asked to take ownership so one person was not solely responsible for planning the entire weekend.

Taking place at the TransCanada Centre, the event is expected to keep families busy for the entire day. The event begins with a community wide snowman-building contest. Other activities taking place include bouncy castles, business showcase, arts and crafts, Henna Tattoos, face painting, Martial arts demos, snowmobile show and shine, carnival games for the kids, hip-hop demos, ringette, bonfire, public skating, Wildlife Haven Showcase, toboggan slide, and much more. The day will end with fireworks, followed by the Canada White, Red and Valentine Themed Social where everyone is expected to wear red and white.

For social tickets and more information, call Yvette at 204-881-2351 for ticket information.

To volunteer, call Marianne at 204-794-1207.

Search is On For Missing Girl The Steinbach RCMP Detachment is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing girl from Mitchell. Tiffany Miles was last seen on December 27 at 11 pm in Mitchell. She is believed to be in Winnipeg.

Tiffany Miles is a described as having a slender build, 5’4”, 110 lbs, Aboriginal female with dark brown hair.

February 2017

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February 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Trails Ready for Actif Epica 2017

By Marianne Curtis

On February 18, Actif Epica, Manitoba’s most gruelling ultra endurance event will be taking to the Crow Wing Trail for the 6th year in a row.

For the first time, this year’s event will serve as a qualifier for the internationally renowned Iditarod Trail Invitational in Alaska, becoming one of only seven events globally to do so.

Spanning the Crow Wing Trail, Actif Epica is adding options for its 6th annual 120 km course event. New this year and beginning in St. Malo for cyclists or runners are extended options for cyclists beginning in Emerson (200 km) and runners beginning in Ridgeville (162 km).

Actif Epica Co-organizers, Ian Hall and David Pensato are excited to bring the race to a new level. “The Iditarod is really the Big One,” said Hall. “Everyone who competes in these kinds of ultra-endurance winter events, dreams about getting in, so for us to be a qualifier really gives Actif Epica a big boost.”

Dubbed “A Celebration of Human Resil-

See the Dawson Trail Dispatch online at www.dawsontrail.ca

Dawson Trail Dispatch

ience”, Actif Epica has drawn participants from as far as California, Colorado and even Brazil. Previous editions have drawn up to 80 registrants, a number that is expected to increase with the race’s new status.

The Crow Wing Trail provides a unique set of experiences to participants, traversing the Red River through southeastern Manitoba to The Forks.

Crow Wing Trail Association President, Murielle Bugera is also pleased with the new designation. “Our communities are excited to welcome athletes from around the world. It can be difficult for us to imagine everyone who might benefit from a 193-km continuous trail, and here we have a perfect example!”

The race has earned several distinctions, including being named as one of Canada’s 10 Big Rides (Canadian Cycling Magazine, 2013), a Manitoba Tourism Award for Event of the Year (2014) and one of Canada’s ultimate adventures (Impact Magazine, 2016). Visit actifepi.ca for more information.

On January 22, crews were out inspecting the trail in preparation for this year’s endurance race, Actif Epica.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

February 2017

11

SnowDance Music Festival Stranded Motorist Draws Crowds to Falcon Lake Killed Near Richer A 38-year-old man is dead after being hit by a semi while seeking help.

A 42-year-old woman was driving a pickup truck, and pulling a trailer and boat eastbound on Highway 1, when she saw a vehicle stuck in a ditch.

According to police, she stopped her vehicle to help the man, but much of the pickup truck and trailer was blocking the driving lane.

The driver of the vehicle stuck in the ditch, walked towards the woman’s vehicle and spoke to her through the passenger side window.

According to the investigation, the semi-trailer travelling eastbound took evasive action to avoid hitting the pickup truck. The semi steered toward the shoulder, but struck the back of the pickup truck and hit the man standing at the passenger side window.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other passengers who were also stranded in the vehicle with him were unharmed.

The female driver of the pickup driver, as well as the 70-year-old semi driver and his 38-year-old passenger were all uninjured.

Race starts for the first ever Snowdance Alpine Race.

By Marianne Curtis On January 20 to 22, the community of Falcon Lake was bursting with winter activities and movies when this year’s SnowDance Music Festival took place.

While skiers got their kicks on the slopes, on stage in the chalet at the base of the hill the live sound and rhythm of bluegrass, pop, soul and a little rock n’ roll music was enjoyed on Friday night, all day Saturday and Sunday from some of the finest bands in the area.

The weekend kicked off Friday night with the show and Funspiel at the Falcon Lake Curling Club where you could curl and listen to music by Heinrichs Maneuver, Micah Erenberg and Ultra Mega at the same time.

Saturday afternoon was filled with skiing, horse skiing, snow sculpting, and six bands took to the stage, including Richard Inman, Rugged Little Thing, Evrytt Willow, Joe Madden, Dutch Elm and Mulligrub, The Catamounts, The Vinyl Salon and 3Peat. Other activities included

Ski Joring behind horses with the Falcon Beach Ranch, Snow Sculpting with Lyle Peters, Turkey Shoot, Open Curling/Hockey on the lake and night tubing.

On Sunday, the day started with a Sunday morning gospel service followed by music with Raine Hamilton, Taylor Ashton, Jesse Matas and Madeleine Roger. Other activities included Snow-ga (yoga in the snow) Ski Joring with @Snow Motion, Shinny game (The Canadians vs. the Soviets), open curling and hockey, Alpine Ski Race and the Polar bear swim-sauna event.

Snowmobile Stolen from La Broquerie On December 26, Steinbach police received a report of a stolen snowmobile from La Broquerie. The snowmobile is described as a 2010 Arctic Cat M8SP, white in colour, Manitoba plate 9J287. The theft occurred between December 25, 2016 at 9:30 pm and December 26, 2016 at 1 pm.

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 1-800222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

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February 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

St. Malo Entrepreneurs Participate in “Just Watch Me” Contest

By Marianne Curtis The 2017 “Just Watch Me’ video competition is underway and two seasoned entrepreneurs from St. Malo are competing to be a finalist in the prestigious contest.

The “Just Watch Me” video contest encourages disabled entrepreneurs to share their business success story and inspire other people with disabilities to become their own boss. Two winners from both Manitoba and Saskatchewan will be awarded cash prizes and a number of other tools that could assist in their business operations.

Lucy Fouasse opened Lil’ Steps Miniatures & Wellness Farm just over a year and a half ago. She provides animal assisted counselling and equine facilitated wellness for children and teens with a variety of needs.

“Two years ago, I suffered a life changing head injury,” Fouasse explained. “In my own personal experience, I have seen first-hand the healing power of horses and the many lessons they teach us such as patience, acceptance, self-awareness, leadership, confidence and trust.”

Christine Morin started Christine Morin Photography back in 2012 when she realized she did not want to be in a cubicle and work regular 9 - 5 hours.

“I have always loved photography and one day I applied to photography school and out of nowhere, I got in,” she explained in her entry. “Since then I have shadowed with Free Press photographers, met amazing people and have photographed some pretty neat things and people. I focus more on lifestyle photography. I believe in capturing the moment, not making them up.”

The video contest is being run jointly by the Manitoba and Saskatchewan Community Futures Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP). The contest is open to people with self-identified disabilities or ongoing health conditions, operating businesses in rural Saskatchewan or rural Manitoba.

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

Apryl Harel, of Apryl Harel Photography, from Steinbach won last year’s Just Watch ME! video contest. She credits the contest for helping to put her business in the spotlight.

To vote for Lucy, visit justwatchmecontest.ca/lucy-fouasse and to vote for Christine visit justwatchmecontest. ca/christine-morin. Winners will be announced on February 17.

Christine Morin, owner of Christine Morin Photography.

Lucy Fouasse, Director and owner of Lil’ Steps Miniatures and Wellness.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

My Big Goof My dog is such a big goof.

He runs around with his tongue hanging out and loves to shove his face into the snow. Of course, when he pulls his face out of the snow the snow often sticks to his muzzle, eyebrows and cheeks and then he runs around with a snow-covered head (and a tongue that is hanging out).

I remember when we first got him and he would run around and knock the children down, not because he was mean but just because he wasn’t used to his long legs and he didn’t quite seem to know how to stop or steer with them. There was even a few times when he would plow into me and almost take me down. Luckily, I would see him coming and prepare myself for the oncoming body slam. Thankfully, he has grown out of knocking into people and he has learned to not jump up on anyone.

There is the very odd time where he seems to forget his manners but those times are very far and few.

This month, my big goofy dog has done something that I still have to shake my head at. My children and I were outside enjoying the warm Saturday weather, no wind to chill us and bright sunshine to light up the yard and clear away the cabin fever. My dog was running about the hardened snow when I noticed that he had stopped running and was alertly poised and staring intently at a spot of snow directly in front of him. Without warning, he leaped forward and began pawing at the hard crusty snow. Breaking through the top layer, he shoved his face into the snow. Pulling his face out he began to furiously dig. He switched back and forth between his paws and face several times in quick succession before shoving his muzzle into the hole and victoriously pulling out a dark, mass. Clenched within his mouth, he darted off a few feet before dropping what he’d captured.

Now I’ve seen this action before and I started to congratulate my dog on doing such a good thing and for being such a good hunter. Walking over I fully expected to see the dead body of a mouse lying upon the snow. Imagine my surprise when I did not see a dead mouse but instead saw that my amazing hunter had merely dug up and captured a frozen piece of poop. With the turd lying between his paws, he smiled his big goofy smile up at me.

Sometimes, I just have to shake my head and walk away.

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

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

February 2017

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February 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

RRSPs…. Yes, No, or Maybe?

The Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) contribution deadline for claiming the deduction on your 2016 tax return is March 1, 2017.

For many people, RRSPs are a very important tool to save for their retirement. Everyone that does not have a generous pension plan offered by their employer needs to save on their own and RRSPs are one of the best ways. But not for everyone and it’s not the only option.

RRSPs are best for those with higher incomes ($45,000 or more).

If your individual income is under that amount, you may be in too low a tax bracket for RRSPs to be ideal for you.

Unless you have children under age 18. That changes everything.

Remember good tax advice can be your best investment!

RRSPs and Children I wrote in detail about RRSPs and those with children under 18 in my last article in January 2017 (go to annimarkmann.ca to read the archived article).

The Canada Child Benefit was introduced in July 2016 (replacing the Child Tax Benefit and Universal Child Care Benefit). And the amount you receive is based on fam-

ily income. If your family income is over $30,000, buying RRSPs will lower your family income and increase your Canada Child Benefit, so there is even more incentive for parents with children under 18 to buy RRSPs. Need an example? Let’s say your combined family income is in the $45,000 to $65,000 range. If you buy $1,000 RRSP, you get your normal tax savings ($280 or more) AND you also increase your Canada Child Benefit by $70 to $230 for the year. That’s a combined savings of $350 to $510 on $1000!

What family situation would save the most? Family income of $45,000 to $65,000, one spouse earns more than $45,000, and you have four or more children; you could be saving 56%! Maybe time to consider an RRSP loan.

If you want to find out about your own situation, contact our office and we can do some “what ifs” for you. But don’t wait until March 1 to call!

Employer sponsored RRSPs If your employer matches your RRSP contributions through a payroll plan, then regardless of your income, you want to contribute to

this type of plan (it’s free money!).

Enrol as soon as possible and for the maximum amount that your employer will match.

When you file your taxes, remember to claim all of your contributions. I do meet some new clients that do not remember to include the contributions made in January and February each year.

This is normally a RRSP contributed through payroll and the tax slips come late (mid to end of March), and often after you have filed your taxes.

So either wait to file your taxes until you get all your receipts, or file early and then get an adjustment made to your taxes for the additional RRSP contribution receipts and more tax refund!

RRSP Loans Should you consider an RRSP loan? They can be a good idea if you do not have the money to buy the RRSP. Make sure you can handle the monthly payment and it should be repaid within 12 months.

And use your income tax refund to pay it down to reduce the number of payments. Then you can use that same cash flow to set up a monthly pre-authorized payment so you can get a head start on the 2017 RRSP.

Don’t buy RRSPs So who shouldn’t buy RRSPs? Anyone without children under age 18, has individual income under $45,000 and no employer plan that matches contributions. You are in a low tax bracket and the tax savings are not as great (26 to 28%). You should use Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA) instead to save for retirement. You will benefit when you retire since you may be in a low tax bracket (and may qualify for other government pension benefits) and when you withdraw from the TFSA, you pay no taxes.

If you have children and your family income is under $30,000, don’t buy RRSPs. The Canada Child Benefit will not increase and you are in a low tax bracket, so there is no benefit to buying RRSPs. Use TFSA instead.

Maybe buy RRSPs If family income is $30,000 to $45,000, the answer is maybe. Get an estimate of your 2016 taxes before you buy the RRSP, to see what your tax savings are and what affect it has on your Canada Child Benefit. The more children you have, the better the increase to the Canada Child Benefit.

A couple of reminders for the month of February. Service Canada is in Ste Anne every third Thursday of the month, including Thursday February 16; located at the Manitoba Bilingual Service Centre, next to our office.

And Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) opens Monday, February 20 so we can start electronically filing tax returns then. If you have only Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security pensions, we can get the tax slips direct from CRA (with your authorization), so you don’t have to wait for the tax slips to arrive in the mail to get your taxes done.

Looking forward to helping everyone maximize their refunds and minimizing their amounts owing.

Most tax returns are due April 30.

Self-employed and their spouses have until June 15.

We rescue unclaimed tax credits!

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 Coop) or Info@SteAnneTaxService.ca.

Get through tax time stress free Tax time can be a hectic part of the year. Fortunately, there’s plenty you can do to get ready. Check out these tips to get through the season without breaking a sweat.

1. Get ready. Everything you need to know to do your taxes, including important due dates, is available at cra.gc.ca/getready.

2. Do your taxes on time — and online. If you owe taxes, file your return and pay on time to avoid late-filing penalties and interest. If you don’t owe taxes, you should still do your taxes on time to receive your Canada child benefit and GST/HST credit payments without delay.

If you’re expecting a refund, it can be in your bank account in as little as eight days if you file online and sign up for direct deposit.

You can prepare your return yourself using the “auto-fill my return” service to fill in parts of your return, available in some NETFILE-certified tax preparation software programs when you are registered in the Canada Revenue Agency’s My Account.

Check out the CRA website to see certified products — you may also be eligible for free software.

3. Claim your deductions, benefits and credits. Learn about the deductions, benefits and credits you may be eligible for on the CRA website.

These include child and family benefits, credits for medical expenses and charitable donations, the disability tax credit, and more.

4. Get help. If you have a modest income and simple tax situation and need help completing your return, many community organizations host free tax preparation clinics that can help. The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program is a great resource that helps thousands for free every year.

5. Ask for a payment plan. Some taxpayers may not be able to pay all their taxes by the due date. If you owe taxes but can’t pay, you may be able to set up a payment arrangement to pay in smaller amounts over time.

(News Canada)

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

C ommunity E vents Falcon Lake Beaver Days - On Saturday, February 4 - Sunday, February 5.

Snowmobile Poker Derby, SnoMo Radar Runs, Youth Sled Races, Beer Gardens, Sponge Hockey Tournament, Lots of Kids Activities, Cross Country Skiing, Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides, Family Skating, Texas Hold’em Tournament, Chili Cook Off, Community Dinner and Live Music! Raffles and draws! And lots more.

Giroux Bingo - Every Thursday at Giroux Hall. Doors open at 5 pm, Bingo starts at 7 pm. Hall rental information for Socials, weddings, family functions, Meetings and more please call Debbie 204-424-5506 or Mike 204-326-6260.

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.

Ile-des-Chênes Taekwondo – On Tuesdays & Thursdays 6:30–8 pm at the Ecole Ile Des Chene School. Cost $40/month, family rates available.

Contact Kangs.mb.ca, Master Bill Tam 204-296-8217.

Quantum Dance Academy – Runs to Tuesday, May 23 2017 at 539 Main Street. Students age 2-18 a variety of dance styles including ballet, hip-hop, jazz, tap and more. Season finishes with a recital at the Pantages Playhouse Theatre. Contact Lee Miazga at quantumdanceacademy@gmail.com or 204- 880-5178.

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

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

Yoga- On Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30 - 7:30 pm at the TransCanada Centre. Cost is $15/class or 10 classes for $125.

Zumba - On Mondays and Wednesdays, from 7 pm – 8 pm at the TransCanada Centre. 10 classes for $75 or $10 drop in.

Contact sarah.abraham@gmail.com.

50+ Programs - At the Trans Canada Centre Indoor Walking - Mondays, Wednesday & Friday 9 – 10 am Yoga - Monday 10 -11 am Coffee Talk - Wednesday 10 - 11 am Block Therapy - Tuesday 10 - 11 am Water Colour Painting – Thursday 10 - 11:30 am Line Dancing - Thursday 7 - 8 pm Floor Curling - Friday 10 am – 12 pm Register contact Mary Ann at vintageclub@transcanadacentre. com, 204-339-6141.

Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturday of every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn about Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive Blessed Rose Petals and other Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’s place of miracles. Contact Corinna 204-878-4908 or email her at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for more info and register.

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

La Broquerie Eastman Immigration Services International Cooking Classes – On the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month in La Broquerie. Space is limited. Contact to register 204-346-6609 or email lois@eastmanis.com.

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, 10 am - 1 pm. Cost $10.

Lorette Storytime & Craft Day - On Saturday, February 11, starts at11 am – English and 1 pm - French at the Bibliothèque Taché Library, 1082 Dawson Rd, Join us to make a heart suncatcher!

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.

Middlebro Poker Derby - Saturday February 4, 11 am-4 pm at the Community Hall. Lunch available; 50/50 draw & silent auction prizes.

Mitchell Soup, Bun and Dessert Fundraiser – On Friday, February 10 from 5:30 - 7:30 pm at the Mitchell Seniors Centre. FreeWill offering towards the Church expansion of Mitchell Gospel Church.

Habitat for Humanity - Southeast Chapter - On Wednesday, February 15 from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Seniors Centre. For families who may be interested in owing a home. Families must

attend the orientation session to apply for a Habitat home. Our next build will be in Mitchell, side-by-side and build is expected to commence in August 2017 and move in approx Nov 2018.

Senior Centre - Breakfasts Tuesdays 8 - 10 am at 130 Ash St. Niverville Skate-A-Thon – On Saturday, February 4 from 2:15 - 4:15 pm at the Arena. Theme is Super Heroes! In support of CanSkate program that teaches the foundational skills to all skaters, young or old and the MultiPlex our future home of all ice sports in Niverville. Collect pledges up to the date then come out for music, leisure skating, games and prizes! Let’s get together!

Contact to register Leslie Bardal 204-801-8609, email lesliebardal@gmail.come, NivervilleRecreation.com The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club – Meets every Monday at 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to become a better speaker, run meetings that are more effective or develop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Club is the place to start. Contact Sheryl Berglund, Sberglund4@shaw.ca.

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

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

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

Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com.

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

Contact Larry 204-422-5424.

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

Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

Richer Richer Community Club Chase the Ace! - Every Saturday at the Richer Inn from 5:30 - 7:45 pm. Tickets only $1 each. Jackpot is reaching almost $2,000! Door prizes on random Saturdays ranging from glassware to Jets tickets and jerseys! Bud, Spud and Steak Special and more! Check out and like Richer Community Club Facebook page for updates. LGA License #1392RF. 8th Annual WinterFest - On Sunday, February 26, from 1 - 4 pm at the Dawson Trail Park. Sleigh rides, Candy Toss, Bonfire, Face painting, 50/50 raffle. Build a Snowman Competition.

Free hotdogs, hot chocolate and coffee. Organized by the Richer Daycare Centre and the Richer Community Club.

Adult & Teen Challenge Concerned Persons Support Group - Join us Thursday evenings at 7 pm, in the Richer Fellowship Church, 50 Southeast Drive. If you have a relationship with someone who has a life-controlling problem, join us for this nine-week Living Free course. Receive encouragement and support in a safe setting, and learn practical ways to best help your loved one.

Contact Pastor Ben Funk at 204-326-2254 or phone the church at 204-422-5308.

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

Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey Pchajek Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating grades 8 and 12. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC License # BI/BO4164.

Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 or doreen@spmf.ca.

Sarto Ukrainian Dance Club – On Mondays from 7 - 8 pm at the Sarto Hall. Join the Sarto Polevnyi Ukrainian Dance Club for the 2016/2017 season! You do not need to be Ukrainian to dance!

Boys & girls, ages 3 to adult, no prior experience required! Cost starts at $150/year.

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

St. Adolphe Art Program – On Tuesdays from 7 - 8 pm, February 7, 14, 21, 28 at the Ritchot Senior Services, 457 Main St. Great for beginner artist to try out various art mediums and materials, learn about art techniques and theories, and apply this knowledge to successful personal pieces of art! Also suitable for the advanced artist who would like to push themselves and explore new territory with artistic guidance and input! All 6 classes for $60 - all supplies included. Contact 204-883-2880 or email ritchotseniors@mymts.net.

Bud, Spud & Steak Night - On Saturday, February 11 at the St. Adolphe Curling Club. Doors open at 5:30 pm, dinner at 6:30 pm. 50/50 draw to the button contest. Live entertainment.

Tickets $20 per person. Contact 204-883-2622 or email curlstadolphe@gmail.com.

Painting on the Prairies Party Fundraiser - On Sunday, February 12 from 2 - 4 pm at the St. Adolphe bar hosted by Ritchot Senior Services. No experience necessary, this is a painting party not a painting lesson! We provide the supplies and instruction; you get to take home a painting you can hang with pride! Open for all ages, tickets only $45. Contact Janice at 204 883-2880, ritchotseniors@mymts.net or Alice DeVos at 204 883-2566 for tickets or information.

Mixed Bonspiel – From Thursday, Feb 23 – Sunday, Feb 26 at the Curling Club. Open to teams of 2 male + 2 female, or 3 + 1 with 3rd and skip alternating gender. Junior curlers and junior teams welcome! Chance to win back your entry fee at the live Calcutta Auction on Fri night. Karaoke on Sat night. Entry fee is $180/team. Cash prizes. To register curlstadolphe@gmail.com or contact Dan at 204-612-5801.

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

Pickle Ball – On Thursdays from 6–7:30 pm hosted by Club Amical at the St. Adolphe school gym. Contact Alma at 204 883-2251.

Athena Women’s Beginner Hockey – Contact Bahia Taylor, bahia@envypaintanddesign.com for details and costs.

Badminton Nights - At the school gym Monday nights between 6-8 pm. $2 drop-in required. Contact yvandupuis@gmail.com.

Ritchot Senior Services - Summer Office Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 am- noon at 457 Main Street.

Contact 204 883-2880, Ritchotseniors@mymts.net.

Walking Club: Travelling all around St. Adolphe for approximately 40-45 minutes and then finishing up with some stretching on the deck with Janice.

Coffee talk: On Wednesdays. Join us for coffee talk outside on the deck, weather permitting. Enjoy coffee or tea, catch up with a friend, or perhaps challenge someone to a game of ladder ball, lawn darts, bocce, a round of disc washer toss or game of beanbag toss. Guaranteed laughs.

Foot care: Clinic on Wednesday in Lorette, by appointment only.

To reserve in St. Adolphe, Ste.Agathe, Ile-des-Chenes or Lorette contact Janice 204-883-2880. Every 6 weeks Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse visits each location and provides foot care to help keep your feet feeling happy.

Weekly Bingo – On Tuesday nights at the St. Adolphe Community Club. Doors open at 6 pm, 6:55 pm - Speedo Game, 7 pm - Early Bird Games, 7:30 pm - Regular Games. We hope to see you there! Proceeds will support the Community Club.

St. Malo Friends of the Park Festival - Louis Riel Weekend from Friday, February 17 to Monday, February 20. Fireworks, Hockey, Live Music, Free Movie night, Cross Country Skiing, Kids entertainment, Face painting, Crib tournament, Social, Pea Soup Contest, Petting Zoo and lots more.

Annual Family Hockey Tournament - Please keep the weekend of Thursday, March 16 – Sunday, March 19 open and register your team by Wednesday, March 1 for the 27th annual family hockey tournament at the Arena. Sponsored by St. Malo & District Chamber of Commerce. Contact Rachel or René (204347-5548).

Little Métis - On Wednesdays, from 10 am – noon, Sing with me group for parents/grandparents with children 0 - 5 years old. Crafts, songs, music, story time, healthy snacks, learning the Métis culture. Free. Contact Aline 204-347-5249.

Sponge Puck Hockey – On Wednesdays at 8 pm at the arena.

Come out and play for fun. Contact Gilles 204-347-5079.

St. Pierre-Jolys Step Aerobics with Weights - On Tuesday & Thursday at 7 pm, at the ICSP School Gym. Contact Stephanie 204-320-2667, Louise 204-433-3839 or The Health Corner 204-433-3891.

Diabetes Educational Resource Centre – On 2nd Thursday of the month from 1:30 - 3:30 pm at the DeSalaberry District Health Centre. Contact 204-346-6254.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression, bipolar, post partum mood disorders support group meetings held on the last Monday of each month at 7 pm at the Chalet Malouin boardroom. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital.

Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

Ste. Agathe Ste. Agathe Hockey League – On Saturday, February 18 starting at 11:45 am, Kids pickup hockey at 3 pm and Bud, Spud at 7 pm. Tickets $20 each. The 2nd Annual outdoor hockey games with free hot chocolate, free hotdogs, free Sleigh Rides!

Ladies Hockey – At the Arena. All levels welcome, including first timers. Contact cougarsrechockey@gmail.com for more info and costs.

Cougars-Ladies Rec Hockey - Weekly Ice time Sundays at 6:45 – 7:45 pm until March 5, 2017 at the Arena. Cost $150/person per season, 21 ice times or drop in for $10/ice time. Contact cougersrechockey@gmail.com.

Walking/Running Club - A walking and running club held on various weekdays at 7 pm, contact carly.flowers@hotmail. com.

Taekwondo - Every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:15 - 7:30 pm at Ecole Sainte Agathe hosted by Kang’s Taekwondo Academy.

Cost $40/month. Family rates available. Contact Jason Barnabe, jason.barnabe@gmail.com or 204-802-3458.

February 2017

Ste. Anne Soccer Registration - On Tuesday, February 21 and Tuesday, March 7. Both nights are from 6:30-8:30 pm in the Ste. Anne Collegiate Canteen. Registration forms can be downloaded at soccersainteanne.com.

Seine River Services for Seniors – Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm.

Cost $10. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local services or e-mail labseinerss@ gmail.com.

Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Centre on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 - 8 pm. Next one is February 14. A large selection of books in both French and English, for children and adults. Special requests can be made to the librarian, e-mail btl@srsd.ca or 204-878-9488 or in person. Come for a visit and see what we are all about.

Steinbach Messy Winter – On Friday February 3 from 5 - 7 pm at the Steinbach United Church. A fun time for all ages - No Cost. Dress for outdoor fun weather permitting. Contact 204-326-3713 or email steinbachunited@mymts.net.

Steinbach & Area Garden Club – On Monday, February 13 at 7 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village Auditorium. ‘Growing Micro Greens Indoors’ with David Hanson, Sage Garden Herbs.

Come learn how to grow salad greens in your own home for a fresh, flavourful winter salad. Also, a sneak preview of March’s program, ‘Pollinators in Your Garden’, with a video about Pollen Bee Nests that will be available for purchase at the March meeting. Everyone welcome! Refreshments and door prizes. $5 non-member admission. More info sagardenclub.com.

Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser– On Saturday, February 18 from 8:30 - 11:30 am at the Legion Hall. Serving sausage, pancakes, coffee tea and juice. Cost $5.

Puzzle Exchange – On Tuesday, February 21 from 10 am - 9 pm at the Jake Epp Library, Bring your gently-used (complete) puzzles. For every puzzle you bring, you receive a return ticket.

If you bring an adult puzzle, you will receive an adult puzzle. If you bring a child’s puzzle, you will receive a child’s puzzle. Then on Wednesday, February 22, bring your return tickets with you and come to the library to pick out some “new to you” puzzles!

Tell your friends! Contact Madison Friesen Program Coordinator 204-326-6841.

Community Mental Health: Roles and Services – On Tuesday February 21, at 6:15 - 8 pm in Summit Room, Bethesda Hospital basement. Tele-health session, hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba. The roles and services of the Community Mental Health program for diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other Dementias. Register online at Alzheimer.mb.ca or email outreach@alzheimer.mb.ca. Use reference code: Steinbach. Contact Leona for information 204326-5771. Note this session also takes place in Vita, Sprague, and St. Pierre-Jolys. Use appropriate code name for registration in those areas.

Family Movie Night – On Friday, February 24 at 7 pm in the Library. Presenting “The Lego Movie” (rated G). Bring a pillow and blanket to sit on and wear your pajamas if you want! The 4th Friday every month. Free admission and free Popcorn! All children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Resume Workshop – On Tuesday, February 28 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library, Steinbach. Need help writing your resume? Create a resume that will stand out and help your get noticed by employers. Sign up in person, by phone or by email. Contact Madison Friesen, Program Coordinator, 204326-6841.

Children’s Programs – Runs to Wednesday, March 23 from 10 – 11 am or 1:30 - 2:30 pm for 3 -5 years old. Songs, Rhymes, Stories, Crafts and Snacks.

Toddler & Me - Runs Wednesdays, to March 22 from 11 – 11:45 am for 1 & 2 year olds. Songs, Rhymes, Stories, Crafts, Snacks and Literacy Tips.

Baby & Me – Runs Wednesdays to March 22 from 10 – 10:30 am for Birth -12 months. Songs, Rhymes, Stories and Literacy Tips.

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

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

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

Eastman Immigrant Services - Many events and activities to support and help you make new friends. Start to make this community feel like your home. Volunteer to help at our community events.

Let’s Sew - Tues 1:30 – 3:30 pm., Sewing machines provided.

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

Reading & Writing – All Levels on Mon & Wed 10am– 12 pm.

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

International Cooking Classes – On the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month in La Broquerie. Space is limited. Contact to register 204-346-6609 or email lois@eastmanis.com.

Eastman Safety Upcoming Programs - Located at 385 Loewen Blvd. Register eastmansafety.ca or contact 1-204-371-1595.

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?

Event runs every second Wednesday of the month, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Come and go as it suits you. We’ll provide basic supplies; feel free to bring your own.

Includes tea and coffee.

Games Day & Games Night – Every 1st Saturday of the month from 12 – 5 pm and the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6 – 8:30 pm, at the Jake Epp Library. Come down to play strategy games. Bring a friend, your strategies and games. Test your skills and have fun. Ages 14 and up unless accompanied by an adult.

Contact 204-326-6841, programs@jakeepplibrary.com.

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

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

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

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

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support groups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns.

Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Jake Epp Library from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

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

Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at Magnolia Restaurant. Contact 204-326-2313.

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

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

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

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

Vassar 42nd Annual Snowmobile Derby - Saturday, February 11. Trail registration 9:30 am to 1:30 pm at Vassar Hall. $6 per hand or $20 for 4 hands. Silent auction, food available and bonfire at site. Sponsored by the Vassar Community Recreational Centre.

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

General Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- On Tuesdays, February 14, March 14 and April 11 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.

Begins at 8:30 am, pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village. Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cash giveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from the casinos for those wishing to play. Bi-monthly overnight trips to South Beach Casino are also available, amazing prices on these trips so call for details. Contact Marilyn at 204-326-4939 for information and to reserve a seat.

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February 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

What You Need is Not Always What You Want Have you ever wondered about the different ways God answers our prayers? God looks at each situation independently. There is no magic formula that will guarantee answered prayer.

In Matthew 8:3, a leper petitioned the Lord for healing and it says, “Immediately his leprosy was cleansed.” But sometimes there is a delay. In II Kings 5:14, Naaman requested to be healed from his leprosy but it wasn’t until he had dipped himself seven times in the Jordan River that his prayer was answered.

There are occasions when God just says “No” to our prayer.

In Deuteronomy 3:25-26, Moses requested that God let him enter the Promised Land, and verse 26 says, “But the Lord … would not hear me.” In this case God said “No” because Moses had disobeyed God earlier. There are other reasons why God says “No” or delays His answer.

God’s ways are not our ways and His ways are beyond finding out. Maybe what we are asking for will not be the best for us in the long run. God sees the picture down the road; we only see what we want now.

When your children were young, they asked for many things; but you didn’t give them everything they asked for. You knew all those things weren’t the best for them. Just because we are adults, humanly speaking, we are still children in God’s eyes.

The saying, “Father knows best” is very relevant here.

There are also times when God delays answering our prayer because He has to put other things in place before your request can be answered. These other things may involve circumstances, other people or both. Also God may delay His answer to teach us some lesson we would never learn any other way.

Fortunately, there are times when God answers beyond what we ask for. Ephesians 3:20 says, “Now unto him [God] that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think…” God delights in giving His children blessings, just as we do for our own children.

But sometimes God answers our prayers in a completely different way than we had asked. In II Corinthians 12:8 & 9, Paul asked God to remove his thorn in the flesh. God left the thorn there to keep Paul humble and dependent on Him. God did what was best for Paul at that time.

The key to approaching the issue of prayer with Almighty God is given to us by His own Son, Jesus Christ. When in the Garden of Gethsemane, just before His crucifixion, He asked the Father if there was any way out of His situation. But He added this phrase, “Nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt.” This is the safest and surest way to pray. Express your will but accept His. It is not only the easiest way to pray and truly mean it; it is also the best way and the most rewarding at the end.

God bless you and help you as you learn to take this step of faith and trust Him for the answers to your prayers.

Volunteers Wanted for Awards

If you know of an exceptional volunteer nominations are now being accepted for the Lieutenant Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards, which will be presented to individuals who represent the north, rural and urban areas of the province.

Lieutenant Governor Janice C. Filmon will present the awards to six worthy individuals at the annual Volunteer Awards banquet held during volunteer week on April 25 at the RBC Convention Centre. “Our province is

blessed to be rich with the spirit of volunteerism. In every community large and small, Manitobans give so much of their time, talent and creativity to impact and enrich the lives of others, and make a difference in this world,” said Filmon. “I encourage you to recognize a worthy volunteer by nominating them for this award.”

The Lieutenant Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards recognize individuals who have embodied the spirit of volunteerism and have made a lasting and meaningful con-

tribution to his or her community.

The Lieutenant Governor’s Make a Difference Community Award will be presented to one overall winner who best represents these qualities of volunteerism.

This award was originally established by former Lieutenant Governor Peter M. Liba in 2000 and has been supported by all Lieutenant Governors who followed.

To nominate an outstanding volunteer, go to volunteermanitoba.ca.

Nominations must be received by February 10.

Tache Library Receives Funding On January 11, MLA for Dawson Trail Bob Lagassé announced that the provincial Rural Library Technological Sustainability Program is providing funding to Bibliothéque Tache Library in Lorette.

“I am pleased to confirm this funding for ongoing technological advancements and the great team

here at Bibliothéque Tache Library,” said Lagassé. “Libraries are important assets to communities and citizens of all ages and backgrounds for work, leisure and entertainment.”

Bibliothéque Tache Library will receive $3,774.51 this year to assist in providing technology services to clients.

The Rural Library Technological Sustainability Program provides funding to rural libraries for technology services. Funds are distributed based on weighted criteria, including the number of municipalities and the population served by the libraries, as well as available municipal funding.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

What Is God Like?

Book Fair Needs Volunteers

The Bethesda Health Care Ladies Auxiliary is hoping to entice volunteers to come out and help sort books in preparation for their upcoming annual spring book sale.

According to Verna Thiessen, spokesperson for the Bethesda Health Care Ladies Auxiliary Fair says the collection of books is about to begin and volunteers are needed to help sort and price books.

In preparations for the sale, book sorting has commenced at the Clearspring Centre Mall on Tuesdays.

Donations can also be dropped off during this time.

In addition, a .50-cent book sale is taking place from 9:30 am to 4 pm at the Clearspring Centre. “While we are sorting, we are selling .50 books,” said Thiessen. “There is quite a collection of gently used books; they are slightly worn, or not in the condition we would like for our sale.”

Over the years, the Bethesda Hospital Auxiliary has hosted several successful sales, which have raised

well over $500,000 for medical equipment deemed necessary for patient comfort or safety and not funded through Manitoba Health programs.

This year’s Bethesda Health Care Ladies Auxiliary Book Faire is taking place March 22 to 25.

Volunteers are also needed during the sale and for setting up.

Anyone interested in helping can call 204-326-3028 for more information.

RCMP Looking Into Multiple Vehicle Break-Ins Between the early morning of January 7 and the morning of January 10, electronic equipment was taken from a parked motor vehicle outside 478 Reimer Avenue in Steinbach.

In addition, in the early morning of January 8, a vehicle parked at 52 Creekside Drive in Steinbach was

broken into and expensive personal items were taken.

There are a number of thefts occurring in the Steinbach area and RCMP are asking that drivers to lock their vehicles.

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).

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Luke 15:20-24… 20) So he got up and went to his father.

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

21) “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son’.” 22) “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23) Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate 24) For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found’.”

So, they began to celebrate. (NIV) There is a little story found in the Bible in the gospel of Luke 15:1132. It is a moving story told by Jesus of a father and his two sons.

There can be little doubt that what Jesus had in mind was to reveal to us what God the Heavenly Father is like. Most preachers however, focus in on the two boys, especially the one who left home. But it is the father we want to talk about.

Notice that the father’s attitude toward his boy never changed. That young man had really grieved his father’s heart. His father must have died a thousand deaths while his son was away celebrating-partying.

I do not think we can say that his dad was a fool. I am sure he had a good idea on what his son was doing in the city. There he was, spending his father’s money, dragging his good name in the dirt. But just to make matters worse, his frightened father no doubt spent many a sleepless night, his heart crushed with sorrow.

But despite of all the embarrassment, all the heartaches, all the suffering, not to mention the financial loss the father suffered, his dad’s love never gave up. No never! Instead, there was forgiveness, there was compassion, there was love, and there was concern. Never did he say that he did not care what his son had done, or for that matter if he ever came home again. Despite all the boy had done to his father, he never disowned him. The day came when that broken, scruffy, tattered, battered boy hobbled and stumbled up the road toward home, there he met his father, who was ready to forgive, who had never given up hope that his son would one day come home again.

Many fathers may not understand how important a role they play in their children’s’ life, especially when children are very young. From the day, they are born both father and mother mold and shape the character that fashions the very personalities of a child. We have all heard the saying, “Like father like son”.

The early years in a child’s life can be very painful. If we create a home environment where our children may think that they are not wanted. The result will be that they will have deep doubts, not knowing if they are really loved, they search for someone who can really be trusted, someone who is willing to take the time to understand their struggles. Someone who is willing to see the world as they see it.

Do you think children form a mental picture of God the heavenly Father from their childhood impressions of their rather frail and at times unreliable human fathers? Much too often we think of God in Heaven as having the same weaknesses as our very unpredictable human fathers have. This is what set the forgiveness of God our Father through His Son Jesus Christ on a plane far above that of us human beings. Not only has He forgiven us our transgressions, He forgets them.

Jesus alone knows the true nature of God’s character. He alone comprehended the beauty, integrity, and wonder of God’s personality. Christ went out of His way to explain to us what God was like.

Now if we are to understand fully God’s love and His grace, it is very important that we pay careful attention to what Jesus said about Him. And do not forget to confess that we have sinned, and we need His forgiveness. By asking Christ to come into our heart… 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 do not have the peace in my heart that I yearn for. I really want that peace, joy and happiness that will fulfill my heart’s desire. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will honour Your Name.” Amen.

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February 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Seine River Services For Seniors Notices Used Mobility Aids Needed

The members of the board of administration for Seine River Services for Seniors are inviting you to donate your slightly used mobility aids to help the elderly who are in need of mobility assistance. Equipment such as rolling walkers, standard walkers, crutches, canes, wheelchairs and bath chairs will help give our seniors a little extra stability when it is required. It is imperative that the needs of our seniors be met. For more information, please call the Resource coordinator, Julie Rowan, at 204-424-5285.

Peace of Mind with Lifeline

When you experience a fall, medical issue, or other emergency, every second counts.

If you are alone, delayed medical care can jeopardize your recovery and your independence!

The Philips Lifeline Medical Alert Service provides simple, fast access to highly trained, caring Response Associates at the push of a button, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Philips Lifeline going above and beyond. They have graciously given Seine River Services for seniors a grant to enable us to help the seniors of our communities live a healthier and more independent life. Gratitude goes out to Philips Lifeline for this special gift.

For more information on Lifeline services, please contact Juliette Rowan - Lifeline Representative at 204-424-5285.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Three’s a Crowd When it Comes to Power Outlets You’ve just bought a new space heater for your home office, but there’s one small problem, there‘s no place to plug it in.

Manitoba Hydro wants to keep you safe. Before you use yet another extension cord or add more load to the power strip, be aware that you may be overloading the circuit. If too many pieces of equipment are plugged into the same outlet and they are all on at the same time, more current may be running through the outlet than it can handle. When that happens the wiring or the outlet will overheat and could potentially cause an electrical fire.

If you must use a power strip, use a brand name product from a reputable retailer. Low quality or counterfeit power strips may contain wiring that isn’t adequate to carry the load. Place the power strip where there is plenty of air circulation to disperse heat.

Never attempt to plug grounded cords into ungrounded outlets. Keep noncritical electrical items and chargers unplugged when not in use and consider keeping battery-charging devices in another area of the home where outlet space isn’t in high demand.

Overloading is even more of a problem with extension cords. Always use an extension cord with the same or larger wire size as the cord being extended. And remember that extension cords are designed for temporary use.

If you have multiple items plugged into, the same outlet it may be time to have an electrician add an extra outlet to your home office. Practice safety in your home office setting and take steps today to remedy overloaded outlets.

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

Rentals and Functions: We can accommodate the following but are not limited to, Weddings, Anniversaries, Birthdays, Banquets, Conferences, Family Gatherings and More! Call Lynda at 204-3204603 for more information.

Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteer with us – we could use volunteers in many different areas.

Whatever your skill set or age we have a place for you. Whether you can volunteer for an hour a month, week or day or several hours we can accommodate you with tasks.

We are in need of Reception/Clerical duties. Call Lynda at 204-3204603 for more information.

Special Events: On Thursday, February 9 at 6 pm: Potluck–Valentine Theme.

Bring a salad, casserole, dessert large enough for you and 4-6 others to share. We provide the meat and entertainment. Fee is $6 per person. No RSVP required however it makes it easier if you let us know if you are coming so we can prepare the correct quantity of meat. Call receptionist at 204-320-4600.

On Tuesday, February 14 at 2 pm: Valentine Gift Pack Giveaway.

Come guess the correct amount of items in our Valentine Jar from until February 14 to be eligible for a prize package. We will have Ice Cream and Punch with some Trivia Games at 2 pm. Fee is $2. We will announce winner at that time.

On Saturday, February 25 from 9 am – 3:30 pm: Living with Dementia: First Steps Workshop.

Participants will benefit from several presenters who will focus on understanding dementia and the disease progression; legal and financial considerations; family dynamics in care-giving; Home Care and housing options; advocating for the person with dementia; reducing care-giver stress and how the Al-

zheimer Society is here to help. Fee is $20 (includes lunch + two refreshment breaks). To register please call Leona at 204-326-5771 or email: alzse@alzheimer.mb.ca.

On Tuesday, March 21 from 1 – 4 pm: Cooking Class – “Healthy Heart”. My Health Team will be here to do another appetizing food class! Fee is $5 per person. Please register by Tuesday, March 14 to be included in this group. Call 204320-4600.

On Thursday, March 30 from 10 am – Noon: Ask the Pharmacist!

We have a very informative workshop presented by Hans B. Epp, RPh, Pharmacist/Owner of Shoppers Drug Mart (Steinbach). The workshop will give a preview of the Newly Expanded Role of Pharmacists in today’s Healthcare environment, in addition to the TOP 10 Questions to ask you Pharmacist and the TOP 10 Reasons why you should. Free but please call 204-320-4600 to register

by Friday, March 24.

Regular Activities: (Make sure to check out our quarterly Newsletter.) All Programs have a fee of $2 to participate.

New Program coming in the New Year – Fitness and Education Classes – See info below.

- Choir: Wednesdays from 10 – 11:30 am. Everyone welcome.

Choir director is Lin Wiebe.

- Dancing Shoes: Tuesdays from 7 9 pm. Practice your dancing moves.

Bring your dancing music and join others.

- Chess + Other board games: NEW TIME: Tuesdays 1- 4 pm.

- Fun Bingo: 3rd Thursday of each month from 10 – 11 am. No Cash prizes – fun prizes are offered.

- Movie Time: 4th Monday of each month from 1 - 4 pm. (Jan 30 will be our Movie Time for January. Ma + Pa Kettle Movie will be played).

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

- Computer Classes: Wednesdays 9 am -1 pm. Call 204320-4600 to book an appointment.

- Cards: Monday – Canasta; Tuesday – Bridge (new time); Wednesday - Cribbage; Thursday – Whist.

All card games from 1 pm – 4 pm.

- Pickleball: Monday, Thursday and Fridays from 9 am – Noon. Tuesdays from 9 – 10:30 am.

- Fitness Class: Every Tuesday from 10:45 – 11:45 am. Everyone welcome. Call Lynda at 204-320-4603 for more details. (Instructors are from Eastman Therapy Centre).

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

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

- Ho Model Railway Project: Monday -Friday from 9 am – 4 pm.

Free Programs - Crafty Corner: Every Friday from 2 - 4 pm. Bring your craft (anything goes – knitting, scrapbooking, woodwork, etc) and have some good conversation, coffee and share in learning from each other. Special guests + activities once a month.

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

Other Programs/Services Provided - Noon Meals: Available Monday through Friday. Cost is $6. Come join us for lunch. Call Deb at 3204605 the day before or by 9 am that day to reserve your meal.

- Tai Chi: Monday evening at 7 pm and Wednesday mornings at 10 am.

- Foot Care Clinic: Foot care is available the first Tuesday and Wednesday of every month and the third Tuesday and Thursday of every month. Call Reception Desk at 204-320-4600 to book your appointment.

- Beltone Hearing Clinic: Third Friday of the month. Call 1-800661-2653 to book your appointment.

For more information on our programs, activities or volunteer opportunities, drop by the Centre Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4 pm or call reception desk at 3204600 or Lynda at 320-4603. Visit our website at patporteralc.com.

February 2017

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February 2017

Celebrating Over 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch