Dawson Trail Dispatch July 2016

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Father and Son Play Pirates of St. Malo

Steinbach’s Pride March Divides Community By Marianne Curtis

“We went on a family vacation to Mexico and when we got back, I told the kids I was going to build a pirate ship,” Bruno explained. “Everyone including my kids thought I was joking, and when I started building, they thought I was nuts.” The project became a father and son venture after fifteenyear-old Erik grasped onto his father’s excitement. “I recently became a single father of four and I needed something to connect with my son, this was a great project for us to work on together. He showed an interest and it went from there,” Bruno explained. Without the use of any formal plans, Bruno designed the

On July 9, members of the LGBTQ community and their supporters are expected to take to Steinbach streets as the first Gay Pride March takes place in the community. The event is causing controversy with religious conservative in the community with lines clearly being drawn in the sand. The event, which is being organized by Michelle McHale has received both international support and condemnation since it was announced in the middle of May. After the Orlando shootings, which was an alleged hate crime against the LGBTQ community, the comparison was quickly made. “This initiative is not about having anything in anybody’s face, this is a celebration of human rights,” said McHale. “We are now expecting this to be a big event.” Just recently, McHale became a vocal advocate for LGBTQ equality in the area after she requested Hanover School Division to allow the discussion of same-sex families in the classroom after claiming her son was being bullied for having two moms. McHale is expecting protestors at Steinbach’s first Pride Parade but she initially believed opposition groups that show up will be respectful. However, online threats have surfaced, and the safety of participants became paramount. “There have been increasing comments on social media of aggression and about wanting to riot. References to the Stonewall riots have been made in support of these positions,” McHale explained. “We need to make it very clear that is not what is needed here. You need to trust the people from the community you are coming to support.” Initially the Steinbach RCMP refused to allow the group to take to the streets. That stance changed a few days later when Scott Kolody, who was announced as “D” Division’s new commanding officer took to Twitter that same afternoon to announce that he has contacted parade organizer Michelle McHale, “\And let her know that I will be marching right beside her on Saturday, July 9.” Community leaders have received harsh criticism from outsiders for their stance on the subject. Conservative Provencher MP Ted Falk made his feelings clear in a released statement. “I will not be attending the Pride march taking place in Steinbach on

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Bruno Hebert and his fifteen-year-old son Erik are now the Pirates of St. Malo after they built their very own pirate ship to enjoy on St. Malo Lake. Photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis Visitors going to St. Malo Provincial Park may think they are seeing things when a pirate ship suddenly floats into their line of sight, but rest assured, their eyes are not mistaken, there IS a pirate ship making it’s way around the lake and along the Rat River. This winter, Bruno Hebert and his son Erik took an idea, building their own pirate ship and made it a reality. Without the use of formal plans or directions, the duo spent three weeks planning, building and then finishing the unique vessel out of 125 2 x 4’s and 21 sheets of treated plywood along with tons of screws.


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Pirates continued... Continued from page 1 29-foot long vessel in his head and created it, piece by piece. “I basically had an idea, and we started cutting and building,” Bruno continued. “The whole town thought we were nuts, but I was pretty confident in what I was doing and it turned out way better than we expected.” It took three weeks for the team to transform a pile of lumber into an actual floating vessel. Christened “Le Night Prowler”, the boat can travel about 7 km an hour, thanks to

Niverville Welcomes Tim Hortons and Shell Construction of a new seven pump Shell gas bar and a Tim Hortons restaurant with drive-thru are expected to begin in Niverville now that Council has approved their development. At a special meeting of Council on June 15, the Town of Niverville approved the application to build both businesses in the community. The seven-pump gas bar, which is being built by Miquel Forest, who also owns the Shell gas bar in St. Pierre-Jolys, includes one pump that is a high volume diesel pump and a 2,500 square foot convenience store. Forest and his wife Sylvie will also own the new 1,500 square foot building that will house the Tim Hortons, but the business will be owned and operated by the franchise owner. The new business is expected to employ eighteen people. For the past six years, Forest and his wife have owned and operated the St. Pierre-Jolys Shell. Niverville Mayor Myron Dyck said Council is grateful for the employment opportunities and economic spin offs that new businesses could bring to the community. “We wish everyone involved in these new ventures much success,” said the Mayor. The new businesses will be located on Dover’s Run. There are also plans to build a strip mall east of the new gas station and coffee shop.

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Weekly Mobile Clinic Visits Prawda

RM of Reynolds residents can access medical care without travelling outside the municipality now that the mobile clinic comes to Prawda. Every Friday, the mobile clinic comes to the Reynolds Community Club from 9:45 am - 4:30 pm and is staffed by a driver, a primary care nurse and a nurse practitioner who can provide care to patients of all ages. The nurse practitioner on staff

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities! three electric trolling motors, one of which Bruno has turned into a steering mechanism, controlled by a wooden captains wheel, also built from plywood. “We tried to recycle everything, an old dresser is now a cupboard, and the mast used to be the stripper pole from the Morden Hotel,” Bruno laughs. He admits that for the most part, his confidence never wavered that the boat would float, but the community of St. Malo had other ideas. “The night we launched it, everyone from town lined the banks, waiting to see if it would sink; we never took on a drop,” Bruno

continued. “Everyone expected us to fail, but we didn’t, we can go where pontoon boats can not, we only need mere inches of water to float. We can float easily over all the sandbars in the lake.” Bruno and his family expect to use his homemade pirate ship for years to come. The St. Malo Lake has been closed to boat traffic for a number of years. However, a small watercraft propelled by electric trolling motors is allowed to be used on the lake. Erik navigates the family pirate ship along the Rat River like a professional.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

can write prescriptions, order lab and diagnostic tests, refer to specialists and along with the primary care nurse they can provide care for acute, episodic and chronic health concerns. Patients can phone 1-855-2958296 to check the schedule or make an appointment. Visit the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority website at ierha.ca where scheduled changes will be posted.

Dawson Trail Dispatch


Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

First Annual WowFest a Success “I just felt the community needed something to bring it together.” About eight hundred people attended the first annual WowFest in Steinbach when the one-day event took place on July 3 at the AD Penner Park. Organized by Dave Redl, the afternoon event was initially started as a fun family event, specifically for members of Wow Steinbach, a sometimes controversial Facebook group. However, with the help of volunteers and an enthusiastic group membership of over 3,000 people, the day turned into a community event complete with vendor show, live entertainment and tons of activities for all ages. “I just felt the community needed something to bring it together,” explained Redl. “An event where people can laugh and play games, listen to amazing entertainment and shop around to vendors they would not normally see at your local stores.” Redl says that once the day was done, everyone was pleased with the results. “The food trucks were selling out and informed me they would be more than happy to show up next year,” Redl continued. “We estimate throughout the whole day we had about a thousand people show up and snoop around. Everyone had a blast and I have not heard a single negative thing about WowFest. So we

Jay Burns “Wow”ed everyone with his vocal talents.

Photos by Marianne Curtis

must have done something right.” Redl is already thinking about how to improve the event for next year. “I promise you that next year, WowFest will be even bigger and better,” Redl concluded.

Pride continued... Continued from page 1 July 9, nor do I intend to participate in any other events organized by this group. Just as I respect the right of people to participate in this event, I am hopeful the event organizers will be respectful of my choice, and the choice of many others, not to participate.” Initially Falk stated a scheduling conflict with Frog Follies was the reason for his lack of attendance. Frog Follies organizers responded by tweeting, “We’re very proud of our festival, but we do not expect to take precedence over an important human rights event.” The City of Steinbach also issued an official statement. “Council believes that all people, including those who identify as LGBTQ deserve to be treated with love and respect at all times. Council also recognizes the

importance of respecting the rights of individuals and organizations who hold different beliefs from those in the LGBTQ community. Everyone in our city has the right to express their views in a peaceful and respectful matter. Council does not officially endorse the July 9 Pride march. Steinbach residents will decide for themselves whether they wish to attend this event.” Organizers are also offering some educational programming to go along with day programming at the Jake Epp Library. The Steinbach Pride Parade is expected to take place July 9 at 11 am starting E.A. Friesen Park, adjacent to the Jake Epp Library, and proceed to Steinbach’s City Hall for a rally.

MTS Wants to Work with Hanover SD for Community Inclusion By Marianne Curtis At a meeting with the Hanover School Division, Manitoba Teachers’ Society (MTS) President Norm Gould told the board that they want to work with the division as it grapples with issues involving LGBTQ students. “We are here to work with you so that we can get closer to achieving what we all want, a safe and inclusive learning environment where all our students have the supports they need to learn and grow,” Gould told the board during the meeting. The Hanover SD has been at the centre of controversy for its policy of not allowing classroom discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity until students are in high school. A human rights complaint has been filed against the division over the policy. Gould said the Society recognizes that the issue is not easy for school trustees. “We know it is hard. We aren’t downplaying or dismissing what you as school trustees and the community wrestle with. We totally understand and recognize that change isn’t easy. We get that this topic triggers emotional reactions in some people,” he said. “Ten years ago, LGBTQ-inclusive education was a topic seldom discussed in Manitoba; we have learned over these years that the absence of those discussions have caused a lot of pain for students, families and communities.” Communities have been forced to discuss these issues to protect students, some of which committed suicide after being bullied. “The suicides of some bullied LGBTQ youth have forced us all to think about what we need to do as

teachers, as principals and vice principals, as community members and as parents to ensure that all students can be who they are in a safe and nurturing learning environment,” Gould continued. “Recognizing that schools need to be a safe place for students in order for them to succeed, these tragic events led to the development of policies aimed at curbing the harassment of LGBTQ students and the creation of inclusive school environments.” The Manitoba Teachers’ Society has been in the forefront in supporting students, educators and trustees in ensuring all schools are safe and inclusive. “We are offering our services, our expertise, our connections and our commitment to work alongside Hanover School Division,” Gould added. “I hope that we will be able to work together to affect that change and that you can trust in The Manitoba Teachers’ Society to be there with you.” Hanover SD trustees did not discuss the issue. Earlier in June, the Hanover School Division received the official complaint filed with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission against the division. The complaint was made on behalf of Michelle McHale and Karen Phillips. “The Hanover School Division is now engaged in a formal complaint process, and will adhere to the required procedures set forth by the Commission. Legal council has been obtained.” In an official statement to media, the division stated further comments would be issued out of respect for the formal complaint process.

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Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Happy Canada Day! On July 1, Canadians came together to celebrate Canada’s 149th Birthday. Over the past 149 years, we have built a prosperous nation, based on the principles of freedom, democracy and the rule of law. Canada Day is a chance for us, whether here at home or around the world, to show our Canadian pride. It is a day to look back at all that we have accomplished and an opportunity to reflect on how blessed and thankful we are to live and raise a family in the greatest country in the world. Canada is a nation strong and free and we have inherited this legacy from the incredible sacrifices and determination of those who have gone before us. We have fought tyranny and opposed injustice around the world and we continue to remember those who sacrificed everything to defend the freedoms that we all enjoy today. Canada Day is also an opportunity to look forward and to dream about what we want our country to look like in the future, while always keeping in mind the values and principles that have brought us this far. As Canadians, we alone have the responsibility to shape our future. As we enter our 150th year, we thank God for blessing Canada and ask that He would continue to show His favour on us as a Nation. There is so much to be thankful for and we have every reason imaginable to proudly call ourselves Canadian. 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

Xenophobia Runs Amok First, let me start with the British referendum on June 23. The question was stay with the EU or leave the EU. To everybody’s surprise on the morning of June 24 including many who campaigned for the leave side, the leave camp won 52% to 48%. The world economy was also shocked, most economic downturns will reset in a relatively short time but for the sector, which is tied to London’s money market, this will likely pinch a bit longer. The remain campaign, led by Prime Minister Cameron was dismal to say the least, he was assisted by the leader of the opposition Jeremy Corbin who is about as electrifying as a nine volt battery. The exit side were led by many who would like to be in leadership roles and campaigned for the vote to leave. Their best line was we will keep what we like in new deal and we can jettison what we don’t like. We’ve seen and heard this during our own turmoil of days past. Needless to say, that is not the way it is going to work. The greatest fear of the “Leave Side” was immigrants. There will be an arduous task to renegotiate the existing European Union trade deal plus all of the trade deals the EU has with other countries such as Canada and the USA. Existing trade deals will become null and void Vis a Vis Great Britain who in their xenophobic navel gazing moment have given themselves approximately two to four years of hard slugging to regain the value of low tariffs in a world economy while other countries will continue to seek increased parity with one another. But in one emotional idiotic moment, the Brits went back to zero. The irony of Great Britain, which possibly once led the greatest empire in the world, is quite sad, its strength was spreading democracy, liberal educated societies and abolishing slavery. It was the recipient of many armed divisions black, brown and white, to help it defeat Nazism in 1945. Now xenophobia has won their referendum. Hang your collective heads in shame. My grandfather, my father was at the front in both World Wars, to do what men of good will must do. The torched was passed to new generations, you dropped it, you blew it! You also blew centuries of good will! Near home, the American presumptive Republican nominee is running the most divisive campaign in memory. Pundits call him a populist, but populist means people’s party, Donald Trump only works to divide, a foolish person with a testosterone level exceeding his IQ level. He will try to win with the “divide and conquer” method, xenophobia on steroids. Interested only in a few more billions, God help us if he wins. That is not a populist, I know that this may not be the adjectives and noun I need at this time but I’m stuck with a silly useless idiot. Closer to home a gay pride parade has sown fear into the hearts of an MP, an MLA, a city Mayor and a bunch of school division trustees. The xenophobic reaction was front and centre in all of these slightly democratic elected officials who once elected, should at least respect freedom of thought and one would think they should serve all people of good will. It is amazing how fear of what goes on in a bedroom, not theirs, has tongue-tied the whole lot. Staying out of citizen’s bedrooms has been in vigour since the 1970s, give it a rest already. Canada conveys equality to all citizens even if you feel it’s inconvenient.

Blood on Board for STARS Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.

The Dawson Trail Dispatch is a monthly newspaper distributed free of charge to 50 Southeastern Manitoba communities. Published by: One One Consultants Inc. Box 308, Richer, MB R0E 1S0 Phone: (204) 422-8548 Fax: (204) 422-9768 Dan Guetre, Managing Editor One One Consultants Inc., Publisher News Writers: Marianne Curtis and Dan Guetre Columnists: Lee Guetre, Peter Friesen, Anni Markmann, Peter Martens, Dave Millar Production/Design: Dan Guetre, Myriam Dyck Copy Editing: Monica Guetre Advertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre

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

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As Manitoba’s Minister of Health, I had the privilege on June 21 of attending a new service announcement by the Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service (STARS) at their Winnipeg base. STARS will be one of six air medical programs in western Canada to begin carrying and stocking blood in advance for life-saving transfusions, and will fly with two units of O-negative blood for patients on scene or during transport to a trauma centre. It is anticipated that STARS patients in Manitoba will use 30 units of blood per year, with a critical patient consuming two units during transport. Medical professionals know that a prompt response can mean the difference between life and death for STARS patients and by having blood available, it will improve outcomes and help save lives. Trauma patients will no longer have to wait until they are transported to a hospital for a life-saving blood transfusion, thanks to the Blood on Board initiative of the STARS air ambulance. Already this service has been credited in helping to save lives. Most of the calls that STARS responds to are in rural communities and regions that are over an hour away from a trauma care centre. Residents of the southeast have no doubt seen or heard of STARS responding to calls in our region. When patients are bleeding during this transport, being able to provide them with immediate fluid resuscitation allows them the help they need to get to a tertiary care centre for surgery. A blood transfusion for a patient at the roadside can be a life-changing treatment that very few other services in North America provide. The Blood on Board initiative is a strong tool for emergency responders in Manitoba and was made possible because of the strong partnership between the Canadian Blood Services, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, Diagnostic Services Manitoba, and with STARS itself. Of course, the ability of STARS to have blood on board is driving by the willingness of individuals to donate blood. As such, Canadian Blood Services relies heavily on the generosity of blood donors to help STARS perform life-saving transfusions. It’s another reason to, if you are eligible, give blood. The new program is recognition of the service STARS provides in specialized emergency medical care and transportation for critically ill and injured patients here in Manitoba. Whether on the ground or in the air, we are fortunate to have tremendous medical professionals working to improve the lives of Manitobans. I appreciate your comments and concerns. If you have any comments on these or other issues, you can contact me by writing, #3 – 227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, by phone at 204-326-5763, by fax at 204-346-9913, by e-mail at kelvin.goertzen@leg.gov.mb.ca or by visiting my website at kelvingoertzen.com. I look forward to hearing from you.


Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Open Letter... Dear Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, MP Rona Ambrose, MP Tom Mulcair and MP Elizabeth May, I am moved to write to all of the leaders of each Federal political party because of a Human Rights issue in the Federal Riding of Provencher. My hope is to see a unified resolution. First, I have a question regarding our Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Can an elected MP or an elected MLA with wages paid using my tax dollars deny and disrespect our Canadian Charter publicly? Certainly, our free speech and religion is protected under our Charter, however should not an elected official who has sworn an oath keep personal beliefs to themselves rather than show public disregard of a minority group? I keep hoping that the political representative will actually represent everyone in the Riding once elected. This is happening again in Provencher with the LGBTQ community front and centre who will march for the first time on Saturday, July 9 to City Hall in Steinbach, continue their legal advocacy in the courts and in the school division. The young people who stood up for themselves show great courage. For as long as I can remember there have been struggles and heated debates between basic human right advocates, free speech and the conservative religious groups in this eastern Manitoban riding. Debates and free speech are wonderful to participate in, hear and see, although it certainly can polarize communities until finally consensus, respect and dignity prevail. Leadership sets the tone of any community. I’m truly appalled by the leadership in Provencher. I would respectfully ask that each political party leader to please remind your MPs that actions speak volumes and that disregard for human rights is not conduct becoming. I would ask that all MPs adhere to our made in Canada “Charter of Rights and Freedoms” by providing support and representation for the whole community. Barring the request above, I respectfully ask that you please continue on true representative election reform because I certainly want to be represented by a person who knows what the meaning is when someone says, “I support Human Rights”. I would also ask that you put the above question to constitutional legal advocates, “Can an elected MP publicly disrespect or deny Charter Rights to a constituency minority group?” Sincerely, Monica Guetre La Broquerie West, Manitoba Riding of Provencher

Blumenort Fair Revisits Old Time Fairs

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Dawson Trail Celebrates Summer has just begun and I’ve had the opportunity to visit many communities in Dawson Trail. From the Dawson Trail Museum open house in Richer, meetings and conversations with different organizations and individuals, to the many Canada Day gatherings held all the way from Paradise Village to Lorette. If you are in Richer, bring your family and check out the new playground at the Richer Rodeo Arena. The community has worked hard to create a place for all to enjoy. They have new structures for children and full picnic area to enjoy and relax. I would also like to congratulate the hundreds of graduates across Dawson Trail who will now go out in the world. Whether they strive to further their education or start on their careers, they have worked hard to accomplish their high school education and I know you will go on to do even more for themselves and the community. There’s definitely lots going on and in the next few months, we will see even more with the many new projects thanks to the Community Places program. Over $173,000 was recently granted within the constituency for projects and upgrades. These grants are used to better communities and help non-profit organizations achieve their goals and plans to serve people. Along with projects, there are many great events and I hope to see you there, watch for the Richer Roughstock Rodeo the first weekend of August, Family Fun Days in Lorette in September and the Landmark Friendship Festival. As the second largest francophone community in Manitoba, I would also like to mention the passing of the Francophone Community Enhancement and Support Act, which establishes in law existing administrative structures and tools used to serve the francophone community. Some highlights include establishing a Francophone Affairs Advisory Council to advise and make recommendations to the minister responsible for francophone affairs, modernizing the mandate of the Francophone Affairs Secretariat and requiring departments and public bodies to prepare a multi-year strategic plan relating to the provision of French-language services. We have over 100,000 French speaking Manitobans, and this is a solid commitment to see the language is further promoted and maintained as a natural daily way of life. We will be making an announcement on our office location opening soon, located at Unit B – 511 Main St. in St. Adolphe. In the meantime, if you have any questions or comments, I can be reached at 204-807-4663 or by email at bob.lagasse@leg.gov.mb.ca.

In Celebration of Being Manitoban

June was an exciting month for many students, it was graduation time, no matter whether you were graduating from kindergarten, high school, college or university, it was a time to celebrate the past and look forward to the future. You are now entering a new and exciting part of your life. I would like to congratulate you on your accomplishments and wish you all the best as you continue on life’s journey. Last week we also celebrated Canada’s 149th birthday. There were many “This fair would not be such a By Marianne Curtis Canada Day events across this great province of Manitoba to help us success without community celebrate. From the pancake breakfasts to the parades and of course the Organizers of this year’s fireworks, Canada Day lets us reflect Blumenort Fair are pleased with involvement...” on what Canada has to offer. We the response to their “new” can all be proud that we live in one updated fair after hundreds of of the greatest countries in the people came out to enjoy live world. music, local food and numerous Summer is just beginning and family oriented activities. Manitoba is a great place to enjoy Karen Doyle Hopkins, one of the it. No matter what part of Manitoba main organizers said this year’s you are in, there is something for event revisited the past with a you to see and do. Pick up a Travel nostalgic feel by introducing old Manitoba guide and start exploring. time country fair ideas with a few Southeastern Manitoba is a good modern twists. The event kicked place to start. off Friday with a showing of Manitoba is home to so many attractions, cultural events and fairs. We “Minions” in the park. also have some of the greatest fishing and camping experiences to offer in The next morning, several North America. Have you seen our polar bears? You can travel to Churchill hundred people returned to enjoy and see them in the wild or go to Assiniboine Park Zoo and see the Journey a community pancake breakfast to Churchill exhibit, the most comprehensive zoological exhibit of its kind in prepared by the RM of Hanover the world, and have some great fun that the whole family will remember. council members. Afterwards, This summer, experience Manitoba and become a goodwill ambassador to families lined up along the streets let others know what a great province we live in. catching candy as the parade took Tourism plays an important role in Manitoba’s economy, and has potential to the streets. for a lot more. Manitoba is a great province to visit and enjoy, but we need The rest of the day visitors An old fashioned watermelon eating contest was a hit with both the kids and the adults at to get the word out about how great it is. That’s why our new Progressive participated in activities that this year’s Blumenort Fair. Photo by Marianne Curtis Conservative government is increasing grants for tourism marketing and included bike decorating, duct development by $3.4 million this year. This will help promote Manitoba and taping creativity, watermelon “This fair would not be such a played a key role in the success its attractions. As well, our ‘Yes! North’ initiative will focus on increasing eating and Lego building. There success without community of this year’s event. In previous economic development and tourism in northern Manitoba. This is just a was also an old fashioned photo start to putting Manitoba back on track and making it Canada’s most involvement and the help of our years, the fair has been booth, a vendor market and tons improved province. dedicated volunteers and we are subjected to torrential rain of live entertainment including I look forward to hearing from you with any questions or concerns. I can grateful to everyone who pitched storms and high winds. This performances by 5acres, the be reached at my constituency office at 204-424-5406, my legislative office in,” Doyle added. year, the entire weekend was Cracked Egg Shell and Cold Hard at 204-945-4339 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca. She also noted that the weather warm and sunny. Cash.


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July 2016

Ukrainian Festival Celebrates 125 Years of Ukrainians in Canada By Marianne Curtis The Ukrainian Museum and Village Society Inc. from Gardenton is gearing up to celebrate the 125th anniversary of Ukrainians in Canada. The one-day event is taking place on July 9 as part of the Gardenton Ukrainian Museum and Village Society Ukrainian Festival. “There will be lots to see and do for both kids and adults, alike!” said Kelvin Chubaty, one of the organizers. “Sing or dance along with the Ukrainian performers; fill up on delicious traditional Ukrainian fare; and learn about the lives of Manitoba’s Ukrainian settlers with guided tours of the museum and fun, interactive games and activities!” The Saturday program will kick off with Panakyda at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Stuartburn at 9 am. At 9:30, Panakdyda will take place at the Historic St. Michaels Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Gardenton. At 10:30 am, joint Molebin is taking place at the Gardenton Museum Festival site, followed by a commemorative dinner at noon. At 1 pm the Zoloto Ukrainian Dancers, the Zvizda Ukrainian Dancers, the Susydka Dancers and the Hyrniuks will present traditional performances. Visitors can also tour the museum, view a commemorative art display, participate in children’s activities, and enjoy traditional Ukrainian food. An evening dance takes place at 7 pm at the Museum grounds. Gate admission is $10 while children under 12 are free. The noon dinner is $20, and admission for the dance is $15 with a hot lunch provided. For further info, phone Kelvin at 204-425-8197 or Harry at 204-222-8984.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Hanover Gets Proper “Stops” Pays Funds for Off in Steinbach Improvements The Hanover Ag Society is getting a small $1,425 grant to conduct some repairs after the province announced that $94,000 in grants to upgrade fairgrounds was approved. The Hanover Ag Society will be using the money to repair bleachers, paint the fence around the rodeo arena and chutes, and purchase twoway radios for events. Agricultural societies can apply for annual infrastructure grants to help maintain and upgrade buildings and exhibition grounds.

Steinbach RCMP Investigate Highway Fatality On June 29 at approximately 5:30 am, Steinbach RCMP received the report of a single vehicle rollover on Highway 1 approximately 1 km east of Richer. The initial investigation has revealed that a westbound car travelled into the median ditch and rolled over. A passenger seated in the rear of the vehicle and not wearing a seatbelt was ejected. The 23 year old male from Winnipeg was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver and another passenger are being treated for non-life threatening injuries. Alcohol and speed appear to be contributing factors at this time.

Piney and Stuartburn Conduct Joint Tourism Survey The RM of Piney and RM of Stuartburn are getting excited about tourism in both municipalities. Over the next few months, a new tourism website will be developed with the expectation that it will be up and running by the end of 2016. The new tourism committee, which consists of members from both municipalities, will be meeting and establishing goals and projects for the upcoming year. Residents are asked to encourage visiting guests to stop by local businesses to pick up a tourism card. Each card has information on how they can take part in the “Visitor Survey”. The short questionnaire is designed to better gain an understanding of what makes people come to the southeast region, and if, when and why they return. It is also expected to help the RM of Piney and Stuartburn learn about how to enhance the visitor e x p e r i e n c e . The surveys will be available on Piney and Stuartburn’s websites at rmofpiney.mb.ca or rmofstuartburn.com.

The Steinbach RCMP conducted a stop sign campaign for about two hours on June 9. “We observed 891 vehicles during this period, 411 vehicles properly stopped, and 90 received gift cards from our sponsors McDonald’s, DQ and A & W said Detachment Commander Harold Laninga. “Unfortunately, 480 vehicles did not stop properly. In this case, Steinbach RCMP members spoke to the drivers and educated the drivers on a proper stop and ramifications of not complying.” According to Laninga, in two cases, the drivers flagrantly drove through the stop sign and were issued tickets for $203.80 each. A warning for not wearing a seatbelt was issued to one driver, and a marihuana pipe seized from another vehicle. The RCMP Advisory Committee conducted this campaign in an effort to make the streets safer, and remind drivers to come to a complete and full stop.

Pat Porter Active Living Centre offers programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for older adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come, pay us a visit, and consider participating in some of our programs. Drop by the Centre Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. For more information call the Centre at 204-320-4600 or go to patporteralc.com. Proud Moments: Our Floor Curlers participated in the 55+ Manitoba Senior Games in Brandon on June 14-16, 2016. Binging home the Gold Medals were Walter and Mary Driedger, Anne Penner, Jean Bateman and alternative Margaret Martens. Bronze Medals were won by Henry and Nettie Klassen and Dorothy and Peter Klassen. Also attending was the bowling team of Richard Unruh, Gordon and Ruth Topnik, Lena Hiebert and Elsie Schmidt. They brought home the Silver Medals. Peter and Ina Bassa also took Silver in Floor Shuffle Board. Congratulations to all of you! Up Coming Events: Birthday Party: On first Wednesday of the month - July 6 at 2 – 3 pm. Cost $2 for guests and free for those celebrating their birthday. Potluck: Thursday, July 14 at 6 pm. Cost is $6 and bring a Salad, Casserole or Dessert. Noon Meals: Available Monday through Friday. Cost $6. Contact 204320-4605 by 9 am to reserve your meal. Purchase your meal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menus are available at the office, online, or in the newsletter. Bring a friend! Beltone Hearing Clinic: Third Friday of the month. Call 1-800-661-2653 to book your appointment. 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 the centre to book your appointment. Regular Activities: Drop in Billiards: Monday - Friday 12 – 4 pm. Computer Classes: Not offered in July and August. Cards: 1 pm - 4 pm. Monday – Canasta, Wednesday - Cribbage; Thursday – Whist. Tai Chi: On Monday evenings at 7 pm and Wednesday mornings at 10 am. Pickleball: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays 9 am – Noon and on Monday, from 1 – 4 pm. Floor Curling: On Wednesdays 1:30 – 4 pm. Floor Shuffle: On Tuesdays 1:30 – 4 pm. Old Time Band Practice: Not offered in July and August. Model Railway Project: Monday - Friday from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Help Us Out We are in need of certain tasks over the summer months as some of our Volunteers who help all year are in need of a well-deserved break. If you have some time available we could use your help. Meals on Wheels and Kitchen Help - The Kitchen is in need of some extra hands preparing meals during the summer months and drivers for the Meals on Wheels program. Community Garden – Planting and gardening time is here! We could use some volunteers to help us get the garden spots ready for planting. We would then need some volunteers to help weed and water our gardens throughout the season. All produce grown is used in our kitchen for the Meals on Wheels Program. This is such a worthwhile project and any help is greatly appreciated. Flower Beds and Lawn Maintenance – We are looking for volunteers to help us with our flowerbeds and lawn maintenance. Even if you can only help out 1 or 2 times in the season it, all helps and is greatly appreciated. Membership at Pat Porter Active Living Centre - is only $25 per year. Memberships are due in January of each year. After January, memberships can be bought at $30. Membership is for those 55 years of age and older. Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice in business meetings, voting rights, and eligibility to serve on the board or committees. Volunteer with us – we could use volunteers in many different areas. Whatever your skill set or age, we have a place for you. Call Lynda at 204320-4603 for more info.


Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

July 2016

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July 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Ride for Mom Raises Funds for Cancer By Marianne Curtis

The Eastman ATV Association presented this cheque to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation after hosting their first annual ATV Eastman Associations Ride for Mom.

The numbers are in and the Eastman ATV Association’s Ride for Mom was not only a sold out event but it also raised $10,820 for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. The first ATV Ride for Mom, which was organized and hosted by the Eastman ATV Association, took place on June 4. To claim the soldout status, all three hundred available participation spots were filled by participants of all ages and additional spots had to be opened. In the end, over 600 people participated.

Eastman ATV Association club President Deborah Nicol said the club is pleased with the success of the groups inaugural fundraising ride. “We had a great turnout for this event. More than double what we initially anticipated and we would like to do it again,” said Nicol. “Many of us have been touched by cancer and this was an opportunity to have fun while supporting a great cause.” Nicol said the event would not have been so successful if not for the hard work of the many

volunteers and the event sponsors. “Thank you to all the riders that attended and help to raise money for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and Eastman ATV Association,” Nicol added. “We would like to give a big shout out to all the sponsors and supporting dealers that supported and attended this event.” The event was also an opportunity to show off the newly opened Eastman Trail, which starts just outside of Richer.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

Aboriginal Graduate Recipient of Award

Doreen Pchajek, President of the Stacey Pchajek Foundation presents Peter Fisher with this year’s Marianne Curtis Award. Photo submitted by Doreen Pchajek

Four years ago, Peter Fisher arrived at the Steinbach Regional Secondary School (SRSS) as a very shy and reserved student unsure of his surroundings after coming from the White Dog reserve in Ontario. This year, he became the second recipient of the Marianne Curtis Award, which goes to students who graduate from grade 12, despite whatever personal or educational challenges they may face. “When I first came to the class I also found it

very difficult to make eye contact with others. With the support of school staff and my personal desire to overcome these obstacles, I have been able to make great strides personally and academically.” Fisher explained. Four years later, he is graduating with a building construction major. “Peter was very slow to warm up to the Integrations program staff and students due to his being shy and quiet. For me, it wasn’t until we found common ground to talk about that I truly started to get to know Peter,” added SRSS integration teacher Brad McColm. The common ground Fisher and McColm found was their love for bicycles and repairing them. What started as a small class project with a few tools and a repair stand, quickly turned into a full bike repair operation inside the portable classroom. Fisher unknowingly inspired McColm to write the Bicycle Repair and Maintenance curriculum so that his hard work and dedication was recognized with a high school credit. He became the first student to get the Bicycle Repair and Maintenance credit in Manitoba. There are now dozens of other students in Manitoba who have also received this credit. McColm noted that Fisher has come a long way from being the shy student who arrived in the classroom. He recently was the leader in the Cycle of Giving program that involved collecting children’s bicycles and refurbishing them so that they could be given away to families in need at Christmas. The Marianne Curtis Award is generously sponsored by the Stacey Pchajek Foundation. For the past 13 years, the foundation has funded scholarships at the Ste. Anne Collegiate. This is only the second time someone outside of that school, and the Seine River School Division has received funds from the Foundation.

Parked Vehicle Vandalized On June 1, the Steinbach RCMP responded to call of a damaged vehicle on the side of Highway 12 less then a mile north of Blumenort. The incident occurred at around 2:45 pm on June 1 and damage was reported to police the same day at 8:04 pm. Between those times, all the windows had been hit with an unknown object and damaged both headlights and one tail light. If you have any information in regards to the above theft 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).

There is still Time! Summer Arts Day Camps. Join us this summer for our camps filled with music, dance, drama, visual arts, field trips, community outings, recreation and more! Two Camps ages 5 - 8 and 9 - 12. Aloha Summer – Monday, July 4 - Friday, July 8. Wild Wild West - Monday, July 11 - Friday, July 15. Land Before Time - Monday, July 18 - Friday, July 22. Spy Kid - Monday, July 25 - Friday, July 29. The Mighty Jungle - Tuesday, August 2 - Friday, August 5. Note this is a 4-Day Camp, as Monday, August 1 is a holiday. Welcome to the Carnival - Monday, August 8 - Friday, August 12. The Great Outdoors - Monday, August 15 - Friday, August 19.

Register for Fall Programs! Creative Wellness - Pilates – NEW! Power Pilates! Basic Core Pilates, New! Pilates Intermediate, On the Ball Pilates, Zumba, Yoga, Belly Dance – Beginner and Advanced. Cooking - Creative Cooking, Kids in the Kitchen, Cake X-Travaganza Workshop and Dessert. Languages - Spanish and French. Visual Arts - Kids - Hand Building with Clay, Kids Art Adventure, Art XTravaganza, Teens - New! Mixed Art, Pottery Passion, Digital Photography and Cartoon Illustration, Adults - New! Beginner Watercolour Painting, NEW! Beginner Oil Painting, NEW! Abstract Acrylic Painting - Beginner and Intermediate, NEW! Contemporary Acrylic, Art X-Travaganza for Adults, Digital Photography and Intro to the Pottery Wheel. New! XCompany Dance classes at SAC– No costume fees, no fundraising obligations, no competitions….just pure fun! Offering 12 week Dance Classes! - Try Hip Hop, Jazz, and Dance4Tots Creative Movement. Fusion! Musical Theatre Program – Ages 9 - 14 and 15 – 19, Music, Dance, Drama. Register online steinbachartscouncil.ca. New! Calling all Directors, Writers and Actors… Are you interested in learning about filming? Learn hands on how to create and edit films. Open House on Monday, September 19 at 7 pm for Ages 14+ at the Steinbach Arts Council, Studio B.

Book your Season Tickets now! Makes the perfect gift… Concerts such as Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops Tour, Manitoba Theatre Centre’s Last Train to Nitric, Prairie Theatre Exchange’s Munsch Busters, Twin Kennedy and much more! Call and reserve your seats today (204) 346-1077.

Arts4Tots Preschool Program Why are we unique? The most creative way to learn for ages 3 - 5 with specialists in dance, music, drama and visual arts! Come join Miss Pam and Miss Jen for a year full of creativity, arts, field trips, learning and more!

The Backyard Theatre Company We want you! Experience scripts, improv, character building, perform on stage and build your confidence! For ages 5 - 17.

New! Theory lessons For the first time at the Centre, we will be offering group theory lessons for music students taught by Candace Hamm, starting in fall. There will be limited spaces so get your name on the list and call our office today.

Music lessons We are pleased that we have several music teachers who will be providing lessons at the Centre this fall in piano, voice and violin. Please call us if you want your name on the list to study with some of the best teachers in the southeast!

Join the Creative Youth Council! The next Turnip the Music! Event is planned for the fall at the Randolph garage – call to join in the fun! Other events include the Summer in the City Festival youth zone. Call 204-346-1077 for more details on all programs and concerts. View events and purchase tickets online steinbachartscouncil.ca.

Hall Gallery Art Exhibit “Extravagant Possibilities” Achieving and Undermining Dilettantism Exhibit by Kianna Giesbrecht and Amber Gambling until Monday, August 15.


Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

July 2016

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Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

July 2016

Beyond the Human Mind Romans 10:8-10 ... 8) But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,” that is, the word of faith we are proclaiming: 9) That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord”, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10) For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. (NIV1984) When we get a little older we often, ask people to repeat whatever it is that has been said. I suppose we do that because we want to be sure we understood it correctly. After all, we do not want to mess up the story with half-truths! Especially the inevitable soon to be expected end of our time here on earth. The question that is bantered about often is, “How do we know what will happen when we take our last breath?” Well, my answer is, “I am going to be in heaven.” How do I know that? “The Bible tells me so!” “Do you really believe all that Jesus taught?” “I am betting my life on it, and I do not want to risk my eternal future on some not thought through notion that all form of life ends after we have taken our last breathe... I choose to cling to what the Bible Teaches.” This Scripture passage teaches that our salvation comes from trusting Christ, and that it is within easy reach for each of us. In fact, it is so close that we may have missed the point. It is as close as our own mouth and heart. By that I mean, if we believe in our heart and tell others that the Lord of our life is Jesus Christ and that God the Father raised Christ from the dead; my Bible tells me that we will be saved. I understand this to mean that when we believe in our heart we become right with God, and when we tell others of our newfound faith, we have just confirmed our faith in Christ. No one who believes in Jesus Christ will ever be disappointed; all who invite Christ into their heart will be saved. Another idea that really gets a great deal of attention is sometimes we feel that we have to do something really special to earn our salvation. I guess it is human reasoning that makes us feel that way, but that is not what Scripture teaches. It teaches that all our good works really have nothing to do with earning or worthy of salvation, even though I might think so! Not all the wonderful things we do, the special events and church services we attend can put us right with God. Now having said that, would you not agree that there would be something very wrong with us if our Christian faith does not move us to good works? Salvation is not a payment or a prize for all the kind things we do or have done. We cannot take credit for it. God Himself made us what we are. He is the One who gave us a new life. None of us would have been able to come to God without the help of the Holy Spirit; however, good works are a direct result of what Jesus Christ did for us. We are no longer strangers to our Heavenly Father, but we are actually members of God’s family, citizens of that heavenly kingdom. What a foundation! Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of that foundation because of what He did on the Cross of Calvary. I believe this is worth repeating; we all have a pretty good idea what God wants us to do. God has prepared long before hand the kind-hearted life He wants us to live and, enlighten us about it all the way through the pages of the Bible and the ministry of Jesus Christ when He walked on the earth. We now know that we cannot earn or deserve Christ’s forgiveness. However, an act of free forgiveness through the mercy of God will put us back into a right relationship with Him. But we also know that we can and ought to show how appreciative we are by seeking with our whole heart soul to live the kind of life, which brings joy to the heart of God... To God Be the Glory Great Things He has done! Would you pray this prayer with me … “Lord Jesus, come into my heart. Forgive my sins. I want my life to change. My thoughts and my attitude need to change. I do not have the peace in my heart that I yearn for. I really want that peace, joy and happiness that will fulfill my heart’s desire. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will honour Your Name.” Amen.

Thief Grabs Lawn Care Equipment Steinbach RCMP received a report of a break in enter on Giesbrecht Street in Steinbach. The break in occurred sometime between midnight and 1 am the night of July

3. A lawnmower, a weed-eater and a large air compressor were stolen. 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 www.manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Dawson Trail Dispatch


Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Understanding the Temptation of Sin This question has been asked by theologians for years; was it possible that Christ could have sinned when He walked the earth 2,000 years ago? So-called experts are divided on the answer, but my mother had a saying about such people; they were too smart for their own good. All a person has to do is believe the Bible and the answer becomes quite obvious. When Jesus Christ was here on earth, He was the Godman. He was 100% God and He was 100% man (Only Christ could claim this). In John 8:58, when the Jews were questioning Christ’s lineage, He said, “Before Abraham was, I am.” Exodus 3:14 clearly teaches the term “I am” was reserved for God alone. So Jesus was telling them He was God. Philippians 2:6 also says Christ, “Thought is not robbery to be equal with God.” The only way He could say that is if He actually was God. Now comes the supposed problem. Matthew 4:1 clearly states Jesus was “tempted of the devil.” By definition of the word “temptation”, a person must be able to give in to the temptation, or it’s not really a temptation for that person. So for the Bible to say Jesus was tempted implies He must have had the capacity to give in to the temptation, or it wouldn’t have been a true temptation. But James 1:13 states that, “God cannot be tempted with evil.” This verse says it is impossible for God to be tempted and give in to sin. So how could Jesus be tempted to do evil by Satan if He was God? You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out the answer. Before Christ came to earth 2,000 years ago He shared the Godhead in heaven with God, the Father, and God, the Holy Spirit. But when Christ came to earth to be born of a virgin, He laid aside His heavenly glory and many of His Godly abilities to become a true man. The Gospels indicate Christ became hungry and grew tired and weary just like you and I. Christ slept and God, as God, never sleeps (Matthew 8:24 with Psalm 121:4). So Christ laid aside His inability as God, to be tempted. In fact, Hebrews, 4:15 says Christ was, “In all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” Christ as a man, was tempted to sin, yet resisted in all cases. He was a perfect sinless man and therefore was the only man qualified to be the human sacrifice for all man’s sin. No other sacrifice would suffice. That’s why Acts 4:12 says, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Christ by resisting the temptation to sin became our only Saviour. But, once you’ve made Christ your personal Saviour, He will help you resist temptation and give you power to overcome sin. Hebrews 7:25 says, “He ever liveth to make intercession for them.” It’s important to realize Christ could have sinned when tempted, but didn’t. Because of this, 1) we now have a Saviour, 2) we now have Someone to go to with every trouble and trial, because He understands us, and 3) we have an Advocate (lawyer) in heaven who intercedes to the Father on our behalf at all times. Are you God’s child today? If so, rejoice in what He does for you. If not, why not consider becoming His child today. God bless you as you seek Him.

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Cancer Claims Prominent Ile des Chenes Businessman By Marianne Curtis On June 28, the community of Ile Des Chenes lost Maurice Leclaire, a local prominent businessman and former municipal councillor after a lengthy battle with cancer. Leclaire is being remembered by many as being a community man who worked hard for the improvement of Ile des Chenes and surrounding area. He was a volunteer with the RM of Ritchot Fire Department for years, an RM of Ritchot municipal councillor, businessman and developer. Leclaire was first During his life, Maurice Leclaire was an avid supporter of elected to the RM of the community, but during his off time, his family came Ritchot council in first, along with his love for travelling on his motorcycle. 2002 and served on the advisory committee for the Seine River watershed. During his time on council, he was instrumental in encouraging development in Ile Des Chenes, with projects such as an industrial development area, which is now occupied by Titan, Adventure Power Products and other large businesses. The new TransCanada Centre, the Ile des Chenes Firehall, the Ile des Chenes Ambulance garage, along with several subdivisions in Iles des Chenes and Grande Pointe are also among his list of accomplishments. He lost his bid for reelection in 2010, and while he was disappointed not to be reelected, he was also relieved. “I am happy now, I have no pressure and it is back to business for me,” Leclaire told the Dispatch. In the days following the election, he established a new construction and consulting business and even when his health began to fail, he continued to encourage development in the area but from a developer’s standpoint. It was while working on these projects that Leclaire was diagnosed with cancer and the fight for his life began. Leclaire leaves behind his wife Donna, and two sons, Chad and Kyle, and two grandsons. A community funeral mass will be held on July 8, at 1 pm at the NotreDame-de-la-Misericorde Church in Ile-des-Chenes. The eulogy will be said at 12:30 pm, followed by a celebration of his life at the TransCanada Centre in Ile des Chenes.

Ste. Anne Mourns Loss of Former Councillor The community of St. Anne has lost an avid supporter and spokesperson with the passing of Dr. Laurie Evans, who passed away on June 19 at the age of 82. Laurie was born in Unity, Saskachewan, where he grew up on the family homestead and began his education in a one-room schoolhouse. He went on to obtain his Bachelor’s Degree at the University of Saskatchewan and his PhD in Cytogenetics and Plant Breeding at the University of Manitoba where he became the Head of the Deptartment of Plant Science in the Faculty of Agriculture. Evan’s career at the University took him to many different places, including Africa and Australia, where he worked as a Technical Advisor and Visiting Professor while expanding his research in Genetics and Plant Science. He enjoyed public service and he spent time as the President of the Fort Richmond Community Club and as MLA for Fort Garry with the Liberal Party. Upon retirement, he moved to Paradise Village where he continued public service as an elected member of the RM of Ste. Anne council until early 2015. Evans was first elected to council in 2002. He was acclaimed twice, including the 2014 election. After the passing of his wife Mary Ellen in January 2015, Evans left the area and relocated to the Seine River Retirement in Winnipeg to be closer to family. Evans is remembered as a man with many interests, but was most happy when surrounded by family. He leaves behind three adult daughters, Normajean Bohonos, Nancy Shynkaruk and Laura Jansen.

Red Trailer Stolen On June 21, the Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen trailer from a business on Industrial Road in Steinbach. The trailer baring Manitoba licence F549J, red in colour, with custom wire racks and spools was stolen sometime between June 18 and June 20. If you have any information in regards to the above theft 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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Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

July 2016

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Ste. Anne Woman Dies Tractor Trek Makes Stop in Richer in Lorette Collision By Marianne Curtis On June 26, twenty-nine year old Sheae Lynne Fright from Ste. Anne, lost her life because of an accident where alcohol was likely a contributing factor. Around 5 am, the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP and the RM of Tache Fire Department responded to the report of a two-vehicle accident along Highway 207 between Lorette and Deacons Corner, at Prairie Grove Road. Fright, who was the sole occupant of a Kia Rio was pronounced dead at the scene. She is the only daughter of Kelly and Leah Fright and a little sister to Todd. She grew up in the Ste. Anne area and went to school in Landmark where she graduated in 2005. Shea Lynne touched the hearts of so many people and was known as “a ray of sunshine” and loved by many. She truly valued her friendships and is known for her support, her laughter, and amusing tales. Three people, all from Lorette, were in the second vehicle, a white GMC Sierra pickup truck, including the driver, and a male and female passenger. All three occupants were taken to hospital and treated for nonlife-threatening injuries before they were released. Following the initial investigation, officers have identified and charged the eighteen year old driver, Colin Robert Simard, with numerous charges, including Criminal Negligence Cause Death, Impaired Operation of a Motor Vehicle cause Death, Dangerous operation of

Spray Paint Used to Vandalize Thrift Store

By Marianne Curtis

An 18-year-old Lorette man has been charged with the alleged drunk driving death of 29-year-old Shae Lynne Fright of Ste. Anne.

Motor Vehicle cause Death, and two charges each of Dangerous operation of Motor Vehicle cause Bodily Harm, Impaired Operation Cause Bodily Harm and Criminal Negligence cause bodily harm. Simard remained in custody for a few days until he was released on bail. The investigation is continuing. In a tragic accident, on June 16, 2014, Simard’s sister Valerie died in a similar fashion after the car she was driving rolled and flipped into a water-filled ditch north of Landmark. The nineteen year old was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene. RCMP reported that alcohol and speed are considering contributing factors in the crash.

For the seventh year in a row, a group of farmers, volunteers and antique tractor enthusiasts hit the road to raise funds on this year’s Tractor Trek. On June 11, 47, tractors ranging from 1940 - 1963 covered 50 kilometres across the southeast in an effort to raise funds for the Mennonite Heritage Village and Eden Foundation. The group left the Mennonite Heritage Museum in Steinbach after a hearty breakfast in the morning and made a pit stop in Richer before returning to the starting point for an antique tractor show. According to Al Hamm, one of the organizers, funds raised during the run will be split fifty-fifty between the Mennonite Heritage Museum and the Eden Foundation. The goal was to collect $1,000 per tractor. “Our goal each year is to get fifty tractors,” said Hamm. “It is a great opportunity to get the older guys together and have fun with the tractors they grew up with and raise money.” The highlight of the day was a planned pit stop at the Richer

Steinbach RCMP received a report of a mischief complaint at the MCC Thrift Shop in Steinbach. The mischief occurred sometime between the night of July 2nd at 4 pm and July 4th at 8 am. Suspects sprayed painted multiple doors and wall at the business. 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 www.manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Ste. Agathe Motorcycle Crash Claims Steinbach Man A twenty-five year old from Steinbach died as a result of a motorcycle accident involving a semi-truck east of Ste. Agathe on June 20. Scott Hamilton was hit around 2:40 pm when a semi-truck travelling northbound on Crystal Springs Road, turned westbound onto Highway 305. According to St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP, the truck driver was turning onto the highway when it was struck by the bike, which was travelling eastbound. The motorcyclist was taken to hospital where he died from extensive injuries. The semi driver was not hurt in the collision. The RCMP has not stated if charges will be laid in the crash. Hamilton is survived by his partner Melissa Sylvester and his parents, Ron and Anne-Marie Hamilton and three brothers Eric, Brent and Jason.

Scott Hamilton

An impressive collection of antique tractors lined the fences at the Richer Community Park when this year’s Tractor Trek rolled into town. Photos by Marianne Curtis

Rolly Wiebe, an avid antique tractor collector from Landmark is proud of his growing collection, including these two entries in this year’s Tractor Trek.

Dawson Trail Park. While the group intended on making a brief stop, dozens of people were already set up on the site, waiting for their arrival. “It was a big surprise,” Hamm admitted. “It was great to see so many people excited by this event.” Eden Foundation provides financial support for Eden Health Care Services programs, which brings

hope and healing to those with mental health concerns. Contributions are used to fund the mental health recovery programs of Eden Health Care Services and go principally to fund new program development, subsidize existing services, provide funds for capital projects and build equity for the future.


Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Doggy Playground to Open in Niverville

July 2016

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Goertzen Reflects on First Six Weeks in Office By Marianne Curtis

Volunteers put the finishing touches together for the grand opening of the Niverville Dog Park.

By Marianne Curtis In a few weeks, the Niverville Dog Park is reopening and thanks to the hard work of volunteers, it’s even better than ever. With eleven agility stations for dogs to play on and enjoy, it’s the first playground of its kind in Manitoba. Over the past few days, volunteers have been putting the finishing touches to the play structures at one of Niverville’s two existing dog parks in preparations for the July 23 grand opening. The event, which starts at 10 am, includes a Doggy Olympics. The project has become a reality thanks to the hard work of Barry Piasta, a local dog enthusiast and spay neuter advocate. “It’s [the park] the first of its kind,” said Piasta. “There’s nothing else like this in Manitoba right now that has activities that you can do and lets you bond with your dog in that way.” The park will have 11 agility-style stations that will include poles, climbs and obstacles including a custom painted fire hydrant. Piasta said he collected photos and videos of dog parks

New Local Charity Menno Mart Opens Its Doors

around the world, then realized Manitoba’s off-leash parks mostly consist of wide-open spaces. “A lot of people go to dog parks and I’ll always hear of them going to do these things. But other than letting your dog run loose, there’s no way for you to get involved, other than tossing the ball and stuff,” he said. “This way, people can get involved with their animal … if they like to go through some of these obstacles and bond with their pets, all the much more.” Fundraising events paid for the playground, and people and businesses in the community have donated time, resources and money towards making it a reality, Piasta said. Piasta said the park has attracted a lot of buzz among dog owners in Manitoba, with some even inquiring how they can create something similar in their communities. “There’s nothing else like it in Manitoba currently, but I’m sure we’ll get some people who will copy it and maybe even do better on it,” he said. The Niverville Dog Park is located near the Niverville Arena. The grand opening is scheduled to start at 10 am and run until 3 pm on July 23. Events include an adoption fair, Doggy Olympics, and other activities.

Menno Mart Inc., a local not-forprofit organization, is excited to announce they are now open for business. Steve Denault, General Manager, commented that the first few days have been encouraging. “I know the community was anxious to see what we are about. Now that we are

open, people are coming in, shopping and also bringing in donations. The response has been great.” “We are busy doing pickups and deliveries, sorting items that are donated and pricing out what has come in. Doors, windows, appliances, we have a bit of

The Provincial government has taken a break for the summer months, and Minister of Health, Seniors and Active Living and Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen said the last six weeks have been a whirlwind of activity. “About two months ago I was enjoying a relaxing evening Barbecuing on my deck, then I got a call that changed my life,” Goertzen recalled. “Two days later I was sworn into the first PC cabinet in 17 years. I went to a new office and was told I was now in charge of a $6 billion department. Fourteen days later I was in the Legislature answering questions as the Health Minister.” Goertzen said that in the six weeks before government broke for the summer, they passed a Throne Speech, their first budget and he introduced and passed his first government bill, which was an amendment to the Mental Health Act (MHA). The amendment will allow police officers to transfer custody of individuals awaiting an involuntary medical examination to a trained, qualified individual. “Our government recognizes the importance of keeping those in need of involuntary medical examinations safe while in custody and to protect healthcare workers and the public,” said Goertzen. “We believe it is equally important to promptly return police officers to their policing duties in the community. This amendment to the MHA will facilitate the transfer of custody while maintaining the safety of all involved in receiving or providing health services.” Currently, a police officer must wait with a patient until a medical examination is completed. Goertzen said this amendment would enable police to transfer custody of an individual detained under the MHA to a qualified person, other than a police officer, who would remain with an individual detained under the MHA until they have received the assessment. The amendments define a qualified person as one who holds a position specified in the regulations or who has received training specified in the regulations. The amendment was passed before the Legislature adjourned for the summer. “The Legislature has broken for the summer, I will still be there almost every day in the summer as most Ministers are, but it [the break] marks a significant milestone,” said Goertzen. Goertzen added his appreciation to his family for understanding the long hours involved as he embraces his new role as Minister. “It’s been a very steep learning curve. A very, very steep curve,” Goertzen concluded. “Thanks again to the greatest constituents a person could hope to represent.”

everything,” remarked Denault. Menno Mart is open Tuesday to Friday from 10 am to 5 pm and on Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. There are no sales on Mondays, as the day has been reserved for community donations. They are also seeking applications from community members who would

like to volunteer. Applications can be found on their website mennomart.ca. If you have items, you would like to donate please call 204-326-1155 or email info@mennomart.ca. Menno Mart is located at 62 Life Sciences Boulevard in Steinbach and all profits will be directed to local charities.


14

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

July 2016

Adventure Power Products Celebrates Grand Opening

New St. Malo Park Captures Founder’s Vision

Members of the St. Malo and District Wildlife Association cut the ribbon to declare the Fabien Preteau Memorial Park officially open. Photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis Hundreds of people came out to help Adventure Power Products in Ile des Chenes celebrate their grand opening on June 25. Photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis On June 25, hundreds of people came out to Ile des Chenes to help Adventure Power Products celebrate their brand new building and showroom. Owned by Derek Roth, Frank Cicco and Ron Skrubutoan, the 6,000 square foot show room contains a vast array of boats, motorcycles, jet-skis, quads, side by sides and other equipment, including helmets and gear. “We are really excited about our new space,” said Roth. “We pride ourselves in being the one stop shop and we are really excited about our new space,” continued Roth. “It is our ongoing commitment to provide our customers with a superior sales experience that is never taken for granted, before OR after the sale.” Adventure Power Products entered the power sports industry in 2007. “It was our

commitment to become a ‘One Stop Shop’ dealership offering our customers products from all segments of our industry,” said. Customers can find everything from ATV, UTV, side x side, snowmobile, pontoon, PWC, ski, fish, lawn m o w e r, m o w e r, c h a i n s a w, s n o w removal, car hauler and utility trailer, all under one roof. Adventure Power Products opened up in Ile Des Chenes six years ago. It is the authorized dealer for over 25 distributors offering over 1 million parts & accessories. In November 2012, Adventure Power Products acquired Thunder Road Motorcycles Inc. In addition to the toys, the owners have added a lawn and garden section including everything for lawn and garden from snow blowers to rotor tillers and chain saws, along with a full service department that offers inspections and repairs.

Progression of a Cold I am sick. I don’t want to believe it and I don’t want to admit it but the hard truth sometimes must be stated. I am sick with a cold. Last week it all began when I woke up and felt that my head had a slight pounding going on inside. No big deal, I thought to myself, it’s just a little headache, probably didn’t get enough sleep and it’ll go away sometime during the day. Sadly, the headache continued to build and build until it was an all-out battle zone within my skull and both armies were using their heavy artillery. To accompany the pounding in my head, my neck started to hurt and, not to be left out, my stomach started to do loop-da-loops. These are all signs that my body and brain are being attacked by a migraine. Throughout the day, I managed to bear it while getting my work done and by the end of my shift, I was starting to feel much better. Later that night my ear started to hurt and, I can see why a baby swipes at its ear when it is suffering from an earache, it’s almost a natural reaction and I found myself doing the same. The next day the earache continued. Using eardrops before bed did seem to ease that discomfort. The next step in the progression of my illness was to have my throat turn against me and become sore with me. It hurt to speak, drink and eat; three things that I like to do several times a day! How could my throat do this to me? Gladly, the throat eased off after a couple of days and now my body has travelled down the winding path into the realm of the stuffed sinuses. With the sinus cavities being stuffed with mucus and more being made all the time, I find that I am suffering from both, a head that is stuffed up like a thanksgiving turkey and a nose that wants to run like a garden hose. You would think that a runny nose would fix the stuffy head but no that would be too sensible. This cold makes no sense to me, it seems to be running around inside my body all willy-nilly and doing as it pleases. I think that enough is enough! It’s time for this cold to get lost! So if anyone is interested in a cold that is well used and still full of energy, feel free to come and stand next to me on the sidewalk and ask for it. If you’re really anxious to get sick (and maybe miss a day or two of work), let me have the first drink from your glass of Pepsi. Now, if you’ll please excuse me, I feel the need to lie down, as this cold seems to be sapping my energy levels. It knows its days are numbered and it’s trying to get in its last shots before it goes. Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

On Father’s Day, the St. Malo and District Wildlife Association hosted their first summer fishing derby in over a decade. Several children and their fathers came out to spend the day fishing along the Rat River. At the event, the Association also celebrated the

grand opening of the Fabien Preteau Memorial Park. Ian Kirby, St. Malo and District Wildlife Association President, said the park is named after Fabien Preteau, who was one of the founding members of the St. Malo and District Wildlife Association forty-seven years ago. “Fabien always had a supportive role; the association would never have taken place if not for his vision,” Kirby explained. Kirby added that the club is very excited to see how the park is being used. “The community is very appreciative that this access is here and they use the park,” Kirby stated. The park, which is located south of St. Malo, along Gosselin Road, has a dock and boat launch complete with large parking area for both offshore fishing and access to the Rat River. There is also a picnic shelter located on the spot and available for public use.

Copper Thief Targets MTS On June 27, Steinbach RCMP received a report of copper stolen from the MTS Tower in the RM of Reynolds. Sometime between April 21 and June 27 someone had entered into the MTS tower area and broke their way into the fenced off area. According to RCMP reports, the thief had stripped copper wire from the tower as well as damaging the attached building. If you have any information in regards to the above theft you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).


Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

The Real Savings with the New Canada Child Benefit The new Canada Child Benefit (CCB) makes the first of its monthly payments starting July 20. This benefit replaces the previous Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB) and the Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB). There are two major differences. First, the benefit is completely nontaxable. No reduction of your expected refund and no surprising amount owing when your taxes are filed in the future. Keep in mind the first six months of 2016, families still received the taxable UCCB of $60 per month for children six to age 17 and $160 for children under age six. The second major change is that the benefit is entirely based on family net income. The full entitlement is $6,400 ($533/month) per child under age six and $5,400 ($450/month) per child for those ages six to 17. There is an additional amount for children with disabilities, up to $2,730 ($227.50/ month). The amounts start to be reduced when family income reaches $30,000. The more children you have, the larger the percentage of reduction. Net family incomes from $30,000 to $65,000, the percentage reduced is 7% if you have 1 child, 13.5% for 2 children, 19% for 3 children, and 23% for families with 4 or more children. Once combined family incomes exceed $65,000, the percentages become smaller (3.2%, 5.7%, 8% and 9.5%). Letters from Canada Revenue Agency regarding the Canada Child Benefit will be sent out at end of June or early July explaining your own calculated monthly benefit. From a tax planning point of view it may make sense for families to consider using RRSPs to reduce their taxable income for 2016 and beyond. You would defer taxes and increase your CCB starting a year from now. RRSP season (usually January and February each year) just got a bit more interesting. Let me explain. Say your family’s net income is $65,000. If you buy $1,000 of RRSPs by March 1 2017, you not only save (defer) 33.25% income taxes, you also save an additional 7%, or 13.5% or 19% or up to another 23% with the increased CCB depending on how many children you have. Yes, you could save up to 56% on your taxes/CCB with an RRSP purchase depending on your family income and how many children you have! And the reverse is true too. If you have additional income (interest income for example), it’s like being taxed at a much higher rate since your Canada Child Benefit may be reduced too. Time to move any taxable interest income accounts to the Tax Free Savings Account! And maybe time to review any other income you are receiving and ask if there is anything, you can do about it. I expect I will see some families in January or February 2017 to do some tax planning on the “what ifs” to estimate the tax savings of RRSP purchases. It’s more than just income taxes saved from now on. It may even be worth considering an RRSP loan to help save for your retirement and get maximum income tax and CCB savings now! I’ll be sure to remind my income tax clients with children prior to the RRSP deadline of March 1 2017. Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and Certified Financial Planner living, working, and volunteering in our community. Contact her at 204-422-6631 or 36 Dawson Road in Ste. Anne (near Co-op) or Info@SteAnneTaxService.ca.

July 2016

15

St. Adolphe’s New Playground to Open Soon By Marianne Curtis The children in St. Adolphe will soon have a new playground to enjoy, thanks to the hard work of the St. Adolphe Community Green Space Committee (SCGSC). For the past five years, the group has been working towards the improvement of the green space located behind the Ecole St. Adolphe School (ESAS). Lesley Gaudry, Project Coordinator, St. Adolphe Community Green Space Committee said the group formed to address the critical need of upgrading the existing 25 year old play structure and replacing it with a green space plan with a communitybased vision. “Since the decommission of the old St. Adolphe Park, and the inability to put any permanent infrastructure on the site, St. Adolphe has not had a central community green space since 1997,” Gaudry explained in an interview. “This project will give students and community residents a safe, accessible, engaging, and greener place to play, gather and participate in recreational activities.” Construction is almost complete on the $200,000 park improvements project started in July 2015. It was made possible through fundraising, grant applications, and in

The community of St. Adolphe will soon have a new park to enjoy, thanks to the efforts of the St. Adolphe Community Green Space Committee.

cooperation with the ESAS Parent Advisory Council, the Seine River School Division, the Municipality of Ritchot, and HTFC Planning and Design. The Community Green Space and Playground will service youth from ages 3 to 15, as well as teenagers and adults. There is a sand zone for younger children, a revitalized four square, Tetherball, basketball hard surface zone for the older children, pathways and benches for older residents should they like to take a walk or sit at evening recreation programs such as baseball and soccer. The playground will be available for students in the St. Adolphe Child Care Centre and the St. Adolphe School during regular school operating hours. Outside of those hours, including weekends, the play zones and sand zone are available for community use. Special events can also be held with school permission.

Local Youths Earn Duke of Edinburgh’s Award By Marianne Curtis

A youth from Ste. Anne and another from Dufresne are among over 200 youth from across Canada, 54 from Manitoba to be presented with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a youth awards program founded in the United Kingdom in 1956 by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. The Gold Award is the highest accolade a young person can achieve and is a true testament to the hard work these young people put forth while accomplishing the Award. Jonas Desrosiers, from Ste. Anne received the award after he completed his Physical Recreation section by sailing, skating, and cycling. For his Skill, he played the Trumpet. His Adventurous Journey took him through Elk Island Provincial Park for 6 days and 7 nights. He participated in the Federation de la Jeunesse Francophone Exchange to New Brunswick for his Residential Project. Dani Dufresne from Dufresne earned the award for his Residential Project. He studied Advanced Aviation Technology at Canadore College and he worked on steel and woodworking for his skill. For Physical Recreation, he played golf, volleyball, and badminton. Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex at the The Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada, presented the award on June 22. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award was founded by HRH the Duke of Edinburgh KG KT, in 1956, in conjunction with Kurt Hahn, the German educationalist. The Award equips young people for life. It is the world’s leading youth achievement award. Young people design their own Award program, set their own goals and record their own progress. They choose a Service, The Children of the Universe Learning Centre in Ste. Anne is looking for Physical Recreation, Skills activity, go on an Adventurous Journey and, to achieve a Gold Award, take part in a support as they plan to expand their facility or find a new location. Residential Project. The only people they compete against are themselves, by challenging their own beliefs According to board President Rhonda Funk, the group is holding a about what they can achieve. fundraiser to raise money for the community Child Care Centre. In 2013, more than one million young people around the world took part in the Award, in over 140 countries and “Currently, we are developing a plan to expand our daycare in order to territories. meet the need for increased child care spaces in our community,” explained Funk. “We are actively seeking to either, renovate and expand at our existing location, or to find another suitable location in Ste. Anne.” Funk said that the group’s goal is to add at least 20 licensed childcare spaces with the addition of infant care for children aged 3 months to 2 years, which is in high demand. To help move this project forward the group is hosting a fundraising Family Fun BBQ on August 27 in Ste. Anne. The festivities will include a BBQ lunch, live entertainment, silent auction, bouncy castle, face painting, reptile zoo, and more. The group is looking for donations or sponsorship to help with the food and drinks, silent auction prizes and services such as entertainment, face painting, and children’s activities. Funk said she is thankful for all donations made to the centre and is looking forward to working with everyone in support of enhancing early learning opportunities for children a wonderful community. Anyone wishing to help or donate items can contact Rhonda Funk at 204-371-0266, or by email at rhonda_butterflywings@hotmail.com or cotuboard@gmail.com.

Ste. Anne Daycare Needs Help to Expand


16

July 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

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

Buffalo Point Buffalo Days- From Saturday, July 9 – Saturday, July 16. Saturday begins with Family Fun Day from 11 am – 3 pm at Fawnway Park with bouncers, games, live music, horseshoe tournament and decorate your wheels. Sunday pancake breakfast and community garage sale. Monday is Buffalo Hunt kick off. Tuesday is Kids Day at the park and Wednesday spend time at Lake of the Sandhills Golf course, green fees $15 and $15 for a cart at 2 pm. Thursday is Beach day, sand castle building contest, boat tours, dig for gold and live entertainment. Friday Mini car Town for the Kids and Sacred Flames Dancers at dusk. Saturday 5 km Walk for CanLyme, 9:30 am registration, Fire Dancer Workshop at 1 pm, a Show and Shine 1 – 5 pm, Belly Dancing Workshop at 4 pm and Fire Works at dusk with Fire Dancer pre-show. Contact 204-437-2777.

for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan, 204424-5285 or labseinerss@gmail.com. Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm. Cost $10. Lorette 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.

Grief Support Group – Begins September on Saturday mornings in Notre Dame de Lorette Parish. To provide education about the grieving and mourning processes to individuals who have lost a loved one through death. The format will be 10 weekly meetings of two hours per week and group size will be limited to 6. The facilitator will be Maryanne Rumancik who will follow the program in Understanding Your Grief: Ten Essential Touchstones for Finding Hope and Healing Your Heart (book with journal) by Dr. Alan Wolfelt. Suggested donation to cover book costs is $45. Registration deadline Monday, September Dugald 5. Contact Fr. Charles Fillion 204-878-2221 or Maryanne Springfield Country Fair- On Saturday, July 16. Doors open at Rumancik 204-878-3901. Exact meeting time TBA. 8 am. Register early for the games at the desk. Pancake breakfast, cribbage Tournament, 4-H Crafts, bicycle decorating Mitchell contest, rare breeds, tractor pull fro ages 4 – 12, scarecrow Mitchell & Area Fun Days – On Saturday, July 9 at 8 am. Free contest, pet show, face painting. Live Music the 5Acre Band at pancake breakfast, community slo-pitch tournament, Balloon 12:30 and 1:45 pm, Mr. Richards Fun Show at 1:15 pm. Annual Man John, flea market, go-karts, silent auction, barrel and Wellington Boot Toss, Huck-a-Boot, Horseshoes, Barrel Train wagon rides, kids bouncers, face painting, chicken supper, Rides, Petting Zoo, Mini Golf, Bouncers, County Fair supper. evening entertainment, volunteer award, and fireworks on Cost Family pass $10, Adult $3, Children 12 and under $2. Saturday. Sunday includes a church service and lunch with a free will offering. Falcon Lake 24 Hour Mountain Bike Race – On Saturday, July 16 and Niverville Friday, July 17 at Falcon Ridge Ski Slopes, Falcon Lake Resort. The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club – Meets every Monday at Solo and team relay mountain bike event. Teams can be made 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to become up of 2 or 4; Corporate teams are a minimum of 6. Cost 8 hr $65 a better speaker, run meetings that are more effective or and 24 hr $80. Walk-up Onsite 8 hr $75 and 24hr $90. Kids develop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Club is the place to (10-17) $35 flat rate. Bring your camping gear, bike gear, and start. Contact Sheryl Berglund, Sberglund4@shaw.ca. whatever else will keep you going. Includes Saturday night camping (no 5th wheels or RVs, please, they jeopardize our GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced the arrangement with MB Conservation), Race license, insurance, loss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learn Mid-race BBQ party and awesome prizes. Come on out and get about the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to register dirty with us! Contact falconridge24@gmail.com. or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com. Carrick Carrick Days – From Saturday, August 6 – Sunday August 7. Saturday begins with a Parade and gates open at noon. Horseshoe Tournament registration at 1 pm. Live Music the Clint Dutiame Band at 2 pm and Catie St. Germain Band at 8 pm. Concession stand Silent Auction and supper. Spectacular Fireworks by Canfire at 10 pm. Free admission on Sunday begins at 10 am with breakfast followed by Karaoke at 11 am.

Fun Fest - On Friday, August 5 to Sunday, August 7. It’s a time Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six. for us to celebrate our beautiful lake, to meet new friends, and Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the to see old ones. lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.) Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along Giroux with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms Bingo - Every Thursday at Giroux Hall. Doors open at 5 pm, visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com. Bingo starts at 7 pm. Hall rental information for Socials, weddings, family functions, Meetings and more please call Prawda Debbie 204-424-5506 or Mike 204-326-6260. Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean Hadashville runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondays Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years Wendy 204-348-2433. old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great stress release and have an excellent workout at the same Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at time. Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290. KSTA.academy@gmail.com. Richer Ile-des-Chênes Roughstock Rodeo – From Friday, August 5 – Sunday, August Youth Drop In Programs – From July 4 – August 26 on Mondays, 7 at Dawson Trail Park. Pancake Breakfast, parade, music, Wednesdays and Fridays at 2 pm -8 pm at the Arena. Programs beer gardens, Family Fun Zone, Draws and Raffles, Intermission 5 days a week. Encouraging fun filled activity, games and Shows, Giant Trading Post, Pony Rides, Petty Zoo and more. sports. Skateboarding, hockey, soccer, basketball and obstacle Friday night Bullnanza and Rodeo Social. Saturday, August 6, courses for 17 and under. Children under 12 must be Mainstage Live “The Ryan Keown Band”, 2015 MCMA Winner accompanied by parent or guardian. Single of the Year. Saturday and Sunday Rodeo. One-day, Two- day or Three-day passes available. Visit www.richerrodeo Story Time in Pyjamas - Every Thursday evening at the Ritchot for more info. Library Ecole Regional Gabrielle-Roy at 6:30 pm. Ages 2-8 however all ages are welcome. Richer Recovery AA - Group meets Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Paul at 204-422-7673. 50+ Programs - At the Trans Canada Centre Indoor Walking - Mondays, Wednesday and Friday 9 – 10 am Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey Pchajek Yoga - Monday 10 -11 am Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides Coffee Talk - Wednesday 10 - 11 am scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating Block Therapy - Tuesday 10 - 11 am grades 8 and 12. Children under 14 must be accompanied by Water Colour Painting – Thursday 10 - 11:30 am an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open Line Dancing - Thursday 7 - 8 pm at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC Floor Curling - Friday 10 am – 12 pm License # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 Contact to register Mary Ann or doreen@spmf.ca. vintageclub@transcanadacentre.com, 204-339-6141. Sprague Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturday Sprague & District Historical Museum - Open by appointment of every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn about from June – September 30. Explore life as it was in the early Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive Blessed days. Free Admission Donations Accepted. Contact 204-437Rose Petals and other Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’s 2210, 204-437-2209 or 204-437-4686. place of miracles. Contact Corinna 204-878-4908 or email her at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for more info and register. St. Adolphe Youth Drop In Programs – From July 4 – August 26 on Tuesdays Kleefeld and Thursdays at 10 am -4 pm at the Arena. Programs, 5 days Community Playgroup - For parents, caregivers and children a week. Encouraging fun filled activity, games and sports. up to age 5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs Skateboarding, hockey, soccer, basketball and obstacle and snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the courses for 17 and under. Children under 12 must be Kleefeld Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013. accompanied by parent or guardian.

learn about business, creating your own product, and getting the chance to sell your product at a real market! Come and enjoy a fun-filled week of activities, learning and creating! Contact Jenna Gilmore 204-746-6180, student@cftripler.ca. 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. Garden Party and Outdoor Games: On Thursday, July 14 from 1 – 3 pm. Join us for a special day with Mayor Jackie Hunt for an official ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome you to our new space. Enjoy refreshments, as you peek at your new Ritchot Senior Services. Walking Club: On Tuesdays July 5, 12, 19, Wednesday, July 13 and Thursday, July 7 at 9:30 am. 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, July 6 and 20. 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 bean bag toss. Guaranteed laughs. Foot care: Clinic on Wednesday July 6 in Lorette, by appointment only. To reserve an appointment in St. Adolphe, Ste.Agathe, Ile-des-Chenes or Lorette contact Janice 204-8832880. Every 6 weeks Cheryl Palmer, foot care nurse visits each location and provides foot care to help keep your feet feeling happy. Mood Disorders Meeting: On Thursday, July 21 at 2 pm with Tara Brousseau, Executive Director of the Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba. Topics include depression, bipolar, recovery, shame, resilience, mindfulness, meditation, coping and self-soothing skills, interrelationship skills, seniors’ issues, distress tolerance and peer to peer support. Everyone welcome. 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. Labre St. Labre 200 – On Friday July 8 – Saturday, July 9. The St. Labre 200 Teams register at 9 am and build go-carts throughout the day. Bonfire and music Friday at 8 pm. Saturday a Calcutta, Brownie Bake Off , Unger Excavating/Brandt Tractor Excavator Rodeo, Paul’s RC Racing demonstrations, bouncers for adults and kids, boot toss and much more. Alumni race, Powder puff race, Old Fart race. On Saturday main Stage, rock’n roll evening with the “Shenannigans” opening for “Wreckage”. St. Labre 200 Sparkplug Cup Presentation, and Red Bomb Ultimate South Eastern Manitoba Fireworks Show. On Sunday, July 10 free community Pancake Breakfast. St. Malo 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 Frog Follies and Ag Fair – From Thursday, July 7 to Sunday, July 10. Frog Hunt and races, bingo, live entertainment, bike decorating, fireworks, parade, slo-pitch tournament, petting zoo, skateboard demo, yoga in the park. Friday Taste of St. Pierre Chamber Supper, $5 per person, 2 and under free. Sunday Pancake Breakfast $5 per person 12 and under $3. Saturday Splash Pad BBQ pork on a bun $5 per person. Sunday the Canadian National Frog Jumping begins at 1:30 pm and free movie at 4 pm. Friday - Sunday free gate admission. Contact 204-226-0527. Camp Entrepreneur – Mardi, Aout 9 – Vendredi, Aout 12, 9 am – 4 pm et Samedi, Aout 13, 9 am – 3 pm. Youth 9-13 yrs. Cost $100. Apprendre au sujet des affaires, créer un produit et le vendre au Marché quelle occasion. Au Camp entrepreneur, tu apprendras comment devenir entrepreneur et comment faire de l’argent. Tu t’amuseras pendant une semaine remplie d’activités intéressantes et amusantes. Contact Jenna Gilmore 204-746-6180, student@cftripler.ca. Step Aerobics with Weights - On Tuesday and 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. Anne Ste Anne Prayer Group – Events Muslim to Christian - From Sunday, July 10- 12. Come hear Emad Bagheri from Alberta. From Wednesday July 20 – Friday, July 22 with Jim Isakson from Colorado speaking on Revival and offering personal ministry time. The 5-Day Club - From Monday, July 25 – Friday, July 29 from 10- 11:30 am for children 5 - 12 yrs at 47 Centrale Ave. Supernatural Kingdom School – From Thursday, August 18 – Sunday, August 21 taught by Matthew Morton from Australia and Kevin Penner owner of Cedarwood Retreat Centre in Pinawa organized by Lorraine Peladeau of Mitchell. All are free but offerings accepted. at Seine River Banquet Hall at 7 pm daily. Contact 204-371-6657. International Cooking Classes - On the third Wednesday of the month from 6 - 8:30 pm. Learn to cook authentic and original foods from Columbia, India, Iraq, Philippines and Bolivia. Pre-register with the Town of Ste. Anne at 204-4225293 or email town@steannemb.ca. Ste. Anne Cultural Committee - Invites artists of all kinds to their weekly open houses at 112 Centrale Ave. on Tuesdays from 9 - 11:30 am and Wednesdays from 7 - 8:30 pm. These gatherings are to bring artists together to work on and discuss their craft and there is no cost to attend. Contact Diane at 204422-9599 or email cccsa@mymts.net.

Dawson Trail Dispatch Monday and Wednesday from 7 – 9 pm at D4-284 Reimer Ave. Classes are free. Hip Hop – Every Tuesday for youth ages 8-15. Mommies Group at Kidzone - On Wednesdays, from 9 am - 1 pm. Come by to meet other moms to chat with and get your kids to make some new friends. Cost $7, free coffee. Creativi-Tea Time - Need to relax and have some you time? Give adult colouring a try. Event runs the second Wednesday of every month, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Come and go as it suits you. We’ll provide basic supplies including tea and coffee. Games Day & Games Night – Every 1st Saturday from 12 – 5 pm every month and 3rd Wednesday every month from 6 – 8:30 pm, at the Jake Epp Library. Come down to play strategy games. Bring a friend, your strategies and games. Test your skills and have fun. Ages 14 and up unless accompanied by an adult. Contact 204-326-6841, programs@jakeepplibrary.com. Canadian Legion - On 1st Tuesday every month at 8 pm and Ladies Auxiliary meets 1st Monday of each month at 7:30 pm at the Steinbach Legion Community Hall, 294 Lumber Ave.

Adult Book Club - Tuesdays from 7 – 9 pm. Bring book suggestions or peruse our book lists. Meet some other book Seine River Services for Seniors – Services and programs for lovers too and bring a friend. At the Jake Epp Library 255 seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot Elmdale St. Contact Tracey Pankratz 204-326-6841 care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard programming@jakeepplibrary.com. maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the United Church of of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Steinbach, 541 Main St. Registration for girls 5-17. Develop Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 personal values and well-being, self-respect and respect for am - 1 pm. Cost $10. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424- others; promote fun, friendship, adventure and challenges 5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local services or e- through new experiences; develop leadership and decisionmail labseinerss@gmail.com. making skills; give service to the community; value the natural environment. Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Green Drinks South Eastman - South Eastman Transition Centre on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 - 8 pm, Initiative presents Green Drinks South Eastman. On the 3rd brings a large selection of books in both French and English, Tuesday of every month at 7 pm at Lecoka, 8B - Brandt Street. for children and adults. Special requests can be made to the Drop in and discuss sustainable living. Contact librarian, bibliotachelibrary.com or in person. Come for a visit rebecca_hiebert@yahoo.com. and see what we are all about. The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon Steinbach except when Monday falls on a long weekend at the Chicken Pride March for Equality – The inaugural event on Saturday, Chef, 365 Main Street, visitors are welcome. Contact Cornie at July 9 at 10:30 am from the United Church 541 Main Street. 326-3155. A celebration and recognition of human rights, a safe space for people to attend where they can be themselves. Whether Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for family you’re a member of the LGBT community, a friend, a family and friends of people with mental health issues are held the member, a co-worker - Pride is for everyone. 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden East Marshalling Time 10:30 am, March Time 11 am walk to City building, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email Hall for a rally where we will hear from community leaders. eastmanmss@mts.net From there, we’ll head back to the United Church. All are welcome to walk in solidarity in the Pride March for Equality. MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living with multiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursday Summer Page to Film Nights – On Thursdays, July 7, 14, 21 evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place and 28. This month is “Where the Wild Things are”, “Dolphin apartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Tale”, “Rio” and “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron”, from 7 – Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Free Admission! Free nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca. Popcorn! On Thursdays August 4, 11, 18 and 25. Movies are MS Lunch Group- On 4th Thursday of every month, from 12 – “Madagascar 2: Escape 2 Africa”, “Kung Fu Panda 2”, “Arctic 1 pm at All D’s Restaurant 320 Main Street. Contact Stephanie Tale” and “Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole”, Bevacqua 204-988-0904, from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Free Admission! Stephanie.Bevacqua@mssociety.ca. Free Popcorn! Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support Summer Reading Club Register – Annual Summer Reading groups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, Club in-person registration and library membership is bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns. required. Special membership offer available $10 for the Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Jake Epp summer for non-resident families. SRC official reading begins Library from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228. Monday, July 4 until Friday, August 19. Various craft classes available at registration. Space is limited. Please sign up in The Bethesda Regional Healthcare Auxiliary - meets on the advance in person. Windup event is on Tuesday, August 23. first Tuesday of every month except for the months of July and Contact Madison Friesen (Program Coordinator) 204-326- August at the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone 6841. interested in auxiliary work. Contact Verna Thiessen at 3263028. Pioneer Days – From Friday, July 29 at 10 am – August 1 at 6 pm. At the Mennonite Heritage Village relive our Mennonite Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the second and past through pioneer activities, steam powered threshing, fourth Wednesdays of every month at the Magnolia Restaurant. music and lots of good food! Our biggest event of the year! Contact 204-326-2313. Cost $10. Carillon Toastmasters - meetings are open to adults who want 2016 Power Smart Manitoba Summer Games – From Sunday, to improve their leadership and communication skills. Thursdays August 7 – Saturday, August 13. Volunteer to have fun, to at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, experience a great time and to participate in the province’s Contact Sheryl at 204-326-7628 or Irene at 204-424-5737. largest ongoing multi-sport program. Looking for 1,000 volunteers to welcome kids ages 10 - 17 from across the Al-Anon Program – Meets on Mondays at 7:30 pm at the province. It is a great opportunity to meet new people, build Cultural Arts Centre back door, downstairs. Contact Lloyd 204a sense of community and gain experience. There are various 326-4365. volunteer opportunities; something for everyone. Volunteer registration at manitobagames.ca. Come join in the fun. Dream Al-Anon 12 Step Recovery Group - Meets on Wednesdays at it! Live it! Contact the Games Office at 204-371-1212 or 7:30 pm at United Church, 541 Main St, front door, ring doorbell. steinbach2016@sportmanitoba.ca. All are welcome.

Ste. Agathe Youth Drop In Programs – From July 4 – August 26 on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 am - 4 pm at the Arena. Programs, 5 days a week. Encouraging fun filled activity, games and sports. Skateboarding, hockey, soccer, basketball and obstacle courses for 17 and under. Children under 12 must be accompanied by Eastman Safety Upcoming Programs: Located at 385 Loewen Blvd. Register online at eastmansafety.ca or contact 1-204parent or guardian. 371-1595. Cheyenne Summer Festival – From Friday, July 15 – Saturday, July 6 at Cartier Park. Beer gardens, parade, baseball fireworks, Eastman Immigrant Services - Many events and activities to pancake breakfast, kids and activities for the entire family, lots support and help you make new friends. Start to make this of music and entertainment! Visit cheyennefest.com for more community feel like your home. Volunteer to help at our community events. To register contact 204-346-6609, info. lois@eastmanis.com. Taekwondo - Every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:15 - 7:30 pm Upcoming Events: Cultures in the Kitchen -Submit your recipe. at Ecole Sainte Agathe hosted by Kang’s Taekwondo Academy. Help us create an amazing ethnic cookbook. Cost $40/month. Family rates available. Contact Jason Barnabe, Let’s Chat – Informal conversation group that meets every Wednesday 1:30 – 2:30 pm. La Broquerie R Biz Camp – Ritchot Camp – From Tuesday, July 12 – Friday, jason.barnabe@gmail.com or 204-802-3458. Pronunciation Skills – Intermediate Pronunciation on Monday Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de Santé July 15 at 9 am – 4 pm and Saturday, July 16 from 8:30 – and Wednesday from 5 – 7 pm. Advanced Pronunciation on from Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Services and programs 11:30 am. For youth 9-13 years. Cost $100. An opportunity to

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. West Hawk Lake Meteor Festival – From Friday, July 8 –Sunday, July 10 at West Hawk Lake. Packed with events that the whole family can enjoy from a parade, early bird bingo, the Meteor Market will be taking place under the big tent, to pony rides, street hockey to yoga on the beach and a wakeboard school, preregister at info@hangtime.ca, Diving for Dollars for kids ages 8-16. Live Music, water balloon volleyball, BBQ, pancake breakfast, sand sculpture contest, hike or bike poker derby and more.


Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Woodridge T.O.P.S -Taking Off Pounds Sensibly - On the second Wednesday of every month at the Community Club. For club hours of operation, contact Stan 204-429-2253.

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again on Tuesday, September 13 from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Join us for a great day of fun and friendship. Visit McPhillips Street Station in the morning and Club Regent in the afternoon. Starting at 8:30 am, pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village. Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and By Marianne Curtis The Mobile Clinic – Is onsite on the third Thursday of every cash giveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from month from 9 am – 4 pm at the Community Club. Contact for the casinos for those wishing to play. Bi-monthly overnight On June 24, two Steinbach athletes were among appointments 1-855-644-3515 or southernhealth.ca. trips to South Beach Casino and Folklorama trips are also eight students recognized when the Manitoba High available, amazing prices on these trips so call for details. General Contact Marilyn at 204-326-4939 for information and to reserve Schools Athletic Association announced the 2016 Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- Begins your seat. Jostens High School Athletes of the Year at a media

Providence Golf Tournament Raises Thousands More than $60,000 was raised by the 18th Annual Providence Classic, which brought 148 golfers, numerous Providence staff and faculty volunteers, alumni, and student representatives together on June 14 at The Links at Quarry Oaks. Nearly fifty prizes were up for grabs through raffles and silent auctions, including Winnipeg Jets tickets and autographed merchandise, and thirty Tournament Sponsors contributed nearly $45,000 to Providence through the event. According to Irma McKenzie, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations at Providence, all money raised will support the Providence Fund, which provides scholarships to students. “I was thrilled to see the enthusiasm with which our sponsors stepped up to support Providence students through the Classic,” said McKenzie. “It was complemented by the generous and eager work of volunteers to make it such an enjoyable day for the golfers.” McKenzie points out that, by participating in the annual Providence Classic tournaments, golfers and sponsors are enabled to be differencemakers in the lives of students who, themselves, go on to be differencemakers in various marketplaces and ministry settings around the world. “That’s the real thrill and satisfaction coming out of this event,” she said. On the course, golfers played the Oak and Quarry nines. The McMunn & Yates foursome finished the afternoon as winners, and following the tournament, a celebratory chicken-and-ribs dinner was served.

Sports Hall of Fame to Induct Lorette Olympian

Steinbach Students - High School Athletes of the Year

conference at the Holiday Inn South. Wellington Driedger of Steinbach Christian School was named the winner in the “AA” Boys category. Driedger participates in Volleyball, and Basketball. He was captain of both his volleyball and basketball team, and received both the MVP award and Players Choice award at the MHSAA Basketball Provincials. Driedger is also a member of the School Band, a Middle school mentor, basketball skills coach, and is on the Spiritual Emphasis Planning committee. He also is a member of the Blumenort EMC Worship Band and Leaders for Youth. Prior to graduation, he maintained an academic average of 91%. He plans to attend the International House of Prayer in Kansas. Also recognized was Eric Loeppky of Steinbach Regional School in the “AAAA” Boys category. Leoppky participated in volleyball, basketball and golf. He was captain of both his Volleyball and Basketball teams, and was awarded the Players Choice award and All-Star at Volleyball Provincials. He was the leading scorer on his basketball team and won MVP awards at two tournaments as well as being the zone winner for golf. He maintains an academic average of 82% and will attend Trinity Western University in the fall. The Association has four competition categories based on school populations. “A” Schools are for rural schools with a population of under 125 students, “AA” is any City of Winnipeg School with a population of under 100 plus rural schools with a population of 125-300, “AAA” are City of Winnipeg Schools with a population of 100-500 and rural schools of over 300, while the “AAAA” category is all City of Winnipeg schools with a population of 500 students and greater, plus Lord Selkirk, Crocus Plains, Vincent Massey High School (Brandon), Steinbach Regional, Springfield, Garden Valley and Northlands Parkway in Winkler and Portage Collegiate.

Wellington Driedger (above)of Steinbach Christian School and Eric Loeppky of Steinbach Regional School were among the list of 8 athletes across Manitoba to be named Athletes of the Year by the Manitoba High Schools Athletic Association.

Voluntary Evacuation Still In Effect in Parts of Whiteshell By Marianne Curtis

Former Team Canada power forward Joey Johnson and an Olympian is among the 2016 class of inductees into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame. Photo courtesy of Wheelchair Basketball Canada

By Marianne Curtis In November, Joey Johnson, an Olympian from Lorette, will be among five athletes, two builders and two teams who will be inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame at the 37th Annual Induction Ceremony. “These nine recipients join our exclusive group of Honoured Members who represent Manitoba’s finest in sport,” said Jamie Kraemer, President of the Hall of Fame’s Board of Directors. “This is an exceptional and welldeserving slate, as these inductees personify the type of excellence and achievement we strive to celebrate, showcase and preserve at the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame.” At the age of eight, Johnson was diagnosed with a degenerative hip disease. He turned to wheelchair basketball and started an outstanding career that included three national titles at the University of WisconsinWhitewater from 2001-03. At the international level, he competed in five Paralympic Games winning gold in Sydney (2000), Athens (2004) and London (2012) as well as silver at Beijing (2008). He also won gold for Canada at the 2006 Worlds and played professional in Germany where he won European titles. “Just want to thank everyone for the congrats on being inducted to the Manitoba sports Hall of Fame,” said Johnson. “It is an absolute honour and I am thrilled about the nomination.” Inducted into the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013, Johnson has been a player-coach on many teams, and is a tremendous role model for disabled athletes.

As cottagers prepared to head out for the July long weekend, the province advised that a voluntary evacuation of homes and cottages isolated by road washouts throughout the Whiteshell were still in effect. According to Manitoba Sustainable Development, a number of regional roads in West Hawk, Falcon Lake and the Whiteshell remain flooded or damaged, including PR 312 from the junction of PTH 44 to the Ontario border remains closed. This route was reopened to traffic on July 2. Highway 307 in the north Whiteshell area is still washed out near the CP tracks between Brereton Lake and Rennie, with motorists advised to travel via Seven Sisters. Temporary repairs have been made to the Falcon Lake South Shore Road, allowing for singlelane traffic to pass, and staff is directing traffic through the road, asking people to drive with caution. Other roads in the south Whiteshell area have also been affected and could deteriorate quickly. Driving with caution is advised and the

Water covers Highway 44 through the Whiteshell after heavy rainfalls caused flash floods throughout the area.

Caddy Lake tunnels remained closed. Manitoba Hydro advises that power has been restored to the area. According to the Whiteshell Cottagers Association, two sandbagging machines are being operated by Sustainable Development Staff and continue to produce sandbags that are available for pickup by anyone requiring them. Road repairs were suspended until over the July long weekend, due to increased weekend traffic in the area. Emergency repairs continued as required through the weekend.

High water levels are still affecting boathouses and docks along shorelines in the south Whiteshell area. Water may have reached two cottages on Caddy Lake and efforts have been made to contact the owners. The Mantario Trail remains impassable and the McGillivray Falls Trail has major washouts. Other trails in the area have yet to be assessed. Officials are waiting for the water to recede in many areas before repairs can begin. It is too early to provide cost estimates until the full extent of the damage is revealed by receding water.


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July 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch


Dawson Trail Dispatch

RCMP Hunt Quad Thief On June 30 Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen ATV from a rural residence in the Rural Municipality of Hanover. The ATV is a 2006 Honda Eiger 400 4x4, red in color, with very low mileage. A unique feature is storage racks mounted on the front and rear of the quad (not included in photo). The VIN on the ATV is 5SAAK46K-867104219. The theft occurred between 10:30 pm on June 29 and 8 am on June 30. If you have any information in regards to the above theft you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at (204) 326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1800-222-8477 or www.manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Investigation Continues on Vandalism at Barkman Concrete On Sunday, June 12, between the hours of 7 and 7:30 am, someone entered the property of Barkman Concrete near the intersection of McKenzie Drive and Brandt Street, in Steinbach. The individuals attempted to steal a tandem truck with an attached trailer and crane. A significant amount of damage occurred during this incident. Steinbach RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in solving this act of vandalism. 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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Assault Results in Custody On Thursday, June 16, Steinbach RCMP responded to a report of an assault and weapons offence at a residence on Brandt Street. Joshua Karlenzig aged 23 was arrested and remanded into custody on a total of seven charges including two counts of assault, one count of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and uttering threats. RCMP reported that Karlenzig appeared in Winnipeg Provincial Court on Friday, June 17 in the morning and remains in custody. His trial has been scheduled for later this year.

Crime Spree in Blumenort

On July 2 after 4 am, several vehicles in Blumenort were broken into. The areas impacted where along 2nd Avenue, 3rd Avenue and Oakdale Drive. A residence on Oakdale Drive had three bicycles stolen, the persons responsible were caught on security camera. One male attempted to open the doors of the vehicles parked in the driveway then left on foot. This same male and two others took the three bikes in the yard and rode off. Two other persons were seen walking by the residence. The three bikes were later recovered on 2nd Avenue at the scene of a residential break and enter. Entry was gain into the garage only where two quads were stolen. One quad was recovered a few houses down, however the second quad is still missing. It is a green Arctic Cat 650 H1. At an address on 3rd Avenue, another vehicle was broken into and wallet was stolen. The wallet was later found and turned into police. All the items that have been recovered or turned into police are being examined. The Steinbach RCMP requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the persons in the video and the people involved in these break and enters. If you have any information in regards to the above theft you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at (204) 326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800222-8477 or www.manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).


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Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

July 2016

Eastman Trail Officially Opened in Sandilands

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Canadian Quilt Goes Country for Fundraiser

Provencher MP Ted Falk and La Verendrye MLA Dennis Smook take a spin along the Eastman Trail during grand opening ceremonies, which took place on June 3. Photo courtesy of the Eastman ATV Association

By Marianne Curtis On June 3, the ATV community celebrated the grand opening of a new groomed trail, which was built by two local clubs. The Eastman Trail brings together two trails. Joined are the former Eastman Trail, which was built and maintained by the Eastman ATV Association and the Little Blackfoot Trail, which was built and maintained by the Woodridge ATV Sandhogs. According to ATVMB, the reclamation of these two trails was possible due to a number of reasons. First was a funding opportunity offered by the Federal Government through the National Trails Coalition (NTC). Federal funds would not have been possibly without matching dollars from the Provincial Government, the Mid-Canada Marine and Powersports Dealers Association, local clubs and private funders. The project would also not have been completed without the dedication of both ATVMB clubs and their members who volunteered countless hours to work on the trails; along with support and guidance provided by the Department of Sustainable Development. At the event, ATVMB recognized the small group of dedicated ATV enthusiasts who got things rolling back in 2009 including Chris Fox-Decent, who served as President, Gary Greenaway, Vice-President, Shawn Zeighers and Tracy Wahlberg. “ATVMB is extremely proud of their accomplishments and believes that the future is bright for ATV enthusiasts in our province. Maintained and signed trails are critical to rider safety and it has been proven that organized riding on designated trails will reduce the risk of rider injury,” stated a spokesperson from ATV Manitoba. “A system of designated ATV/multiuse trails also enhances tourism opportunities in rural areas of our province attracting riders from other areas of Manitoba, neighbouring provinces and from the US. Manitoba has so much to offer and, the members of ATVMB see it. Designated ATV trails are just one more tourism opportunity.” The new 80 km trail is the first of its kind, built on Crown Land in the Richer-Sandilands area and will be maintained by Eastman ATV Association Inc.

Two Local Projects Receive Funding A $1.5 million commitment from Co-op will protect, beautify and enhance spaces in communities across western Canada, including two local projects located in La Broquerie and Grande Pointe. The funding is provided by Co-op Community Spaces, a program supporting community-based recreation, conservation and urban agriculture projects. This year’s 21 recipients span all four western Canadian provinces and include local organizations and initiatives that enhance the quality of life in their community and deliver important local services. The La Broquerie Community Development Corporation is getting $63,000 to promote fitness and outdoor activities by installing outdoor fitness equipment. With rural trails nearby, the area will also encourage active transportation between rural communities in the RM of La Broquerie and promote ecological discovery within the region. The Grande Point Homeowner’s Association will receive $75,000 to bring a new community clubhouse to their outdoor rink. The new four-season facility at the Grande Pointe Park will provide users with a place to warm up, access bathrooms and host other events. Since launching in 2015, Co-op Community Spaces has provided almost $2.5 million to 37 local projects that benefit communities throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

Canadian Country star Gord Bamford was the first to add his signature to a special quilt that will be auctioned off later in support of local charities.

By Marianne Curtis Canadian country singer Gord Bamford and the members of Washboard Union were the first batch of signatures to be added to a custom made quilt currently making the country music circuit. The quilt, which is designed and stitched by Sherri Lynn Parent, owner of Driven 2 Sew in Steinbach, is expected to bring funds to several organizations once it is covered with the signatures of Canadian country musicians. “We brought the quilt to the Niverville Fair and asked the headliners to sign it,” explained Parent. “We are thankful for them signing the quilt so we can raise some funds to help out some local charities; this is just the beginning, we can’t wait to have more amazing artists join us for this project.” Once the quilt has more signatures, it will be auctioned off and the money will be donated to a local charity. Parent said she would announce which charity will benefit from the quilt auction at a later date. The band members of BlackJack Billy, who headlined Summer in the City, have also signed the quilt.


Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

July 2016

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Annual Community Places Grants Approved By Marianne Curtis

Clerks Wanted for Lorette, Niverville RCMP Offices The RM of Tache and Town of Niverville are jointly seeking a Municipal Employee Clerk to work directly with the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP Detachment in their respective municipal policing satellite offices. This is a full time position that will be shared between Tache and Niverville at twenty hours per week at each site. The successful applicant will provide local administrative support to the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP Detachment for community policing services with the satellite offices serving as a recognizable entry point for accessing the RCMP. St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP Staff Sergeant Rheal Gravel said the detachment is operating at full capacity for the first time in a number of years. There are currently 15 officers and 2 supervisors stationed at the detachment. With a full staff of officers, the detachment hopes to reopen the Satellite offices in Lorette and Niverville. “The towns [Niverville and RM of Tache] are responsible for hiring staff for the offices and they are on the cusp of hiring,” Gravel stated. “Members are currently using the offices for their business, but the public still have to go to St. PierreJolys.” Once the satellite offices are operational, staff will accept citizen inquiries and complaints, provide information and address concerns, dispatch the necessary information to on duty officers in response to calls for service, initiate and create files, maintain databases and conduct Criminal Record checks. The position is expected to be filled by fall.

RCMP Seek Three in Hotel Incident The Steinbach RCMP are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying and contacting a female and two males who possibly have information regarding an incident in the La Broquerie Hotel on the 30th of June at approximately 9:44 am. All are believed to be in the 20’s, the female was wearing a white sweater, black leggings and flip flops, with shoulder length curly hair, one male was wearing a baseball hat, sunglasses, black leather jacket, blue jeans and brown work boots, the other male was wearing sunglasses, black shirt and black shorts with brown work boots. 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 1800-222-8477 or www.manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

The Community Places Program recently released this year’s grant recipients, which include twenty-eight out of forty-two community organizations located in the Eastern Division. These groups will share in a combined $382,500 in funding in support of recreational and cultural facilities as the Community Places program celebrates 30 years. The grants range from $35,000 to $1,500. Of all the grants, the largest amount of $35,000 will go to the City of Steinbach to construct a building at the community soccer park. The second largest grants of $25,000 will go to the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre in Ile des Chenes for the animal hospital, Grand Pointe Home Owners Association for a garage and warm-up facility, Ile des Chenes School PAC for playground development and Ste. Agathe Arena for a zamboni room. Two organizations are getting $20,000 including the Mitchell Community Centre for play space development and to the Red Rock Bible Camp in the Whiteshell for a lodge roof. The Southwood Parent Advisory is receiving $18,000 for a playground and the St. Adolphe Community Club is getting $16,000 for dehumidification and a condenser. Three groups are will receive $15,000 including the Kleefeld Rec Community for upgrades; Steinbach Family Resources for Road Safety play area and Shevchenko School for playground improvements. The remaining funds were split between the Blumenort Rec Association ($10,000), City of Steinbach ($10,000), Club Ile des Chenes ($7,000), Lorette Community Complex ($12,500), Corp due Site Historique Monseigneur-Tache ($7,000), Town of Niverville ($12,000), Whitemouth Recreation Association ($2,500), Ecole Heritage Immersion ($10,000), Ecole Ste. Anne Immersion PAC ($7,500), Club Amical de St. Adolphe ($10,000), Mennonite Heritage Museum ($10,000), Midwinter Heritage Museum ($5,000), RM of Tache ($12,000), Randolph Sports Club ($11,500), and Steinbach’s Serving Seniors ($1,500). Over the last 30 years, the program has provided over $118 million to support more than 7,700 community-led projects across Manitoba. It has also helped to leverage more than $710 million from other sources to support these initiatives and the provincial economy.

Youth Set Garbage Can on Fire in Mall On May 31 Steinbach RCMP received a report of mischief at the Clearspring Mall in Steinbach. Someone had entered the men’s public washroom and set the garbage can on fire. Two young boys were seen fleeing the scene, one non-white male with short curly hair and one caucasian male with short blonde hair. If you have any information in regards to the above theft you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at (204) 326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800222-8477 or www.manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Theft at Source for Sports The Steinbach RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a male who was involved in an incident in Steinbach at the Source for Sports on June 3. He appears to be in his 20’s, medium complexion, dark hair and dark mustache. 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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July 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Annual Bike Repair Event and Picnic Draw Crowds to Ste. Agathe By Marianne Curtis Approximately 150 people came out to Ste. Agathe on June 4, when Ste. Agathe Service hosted their 5th annual Barbeque and Bike Repair Day. Alain Robert, owner of Ste. Agathe Service started the event five years ago, in response to the yearly parade of bikes that came through the shop for repairs. “Every summer kids are coming in here to get chains oiled or get their tires filled,” Robert explained. “We decided to have a one day event where everyone can come in and get their bikes serviced. My guys line up their tool boxes and we make a day of it.” Taking advantage of the community park across the street, the street is blocked off, several bouncers are set up and local families come out for the day. “This is just a little way that our family likes to give back to the community that has supported us all of these years,” said Robert. “Families come out, enjoy a free lunch and get to know each other while the For one day, the mechanics at Ste. Agathe Service turn their focus kids have fun.” Not only do Robert and his staff donate their time from vehicle repairs to bike repairs as part of a unique community and equipment for the event, but children can also event hosted by the local business. Photo by Marianne Curtis expect to go home with a few goodies, including can bring their bears in for medical care. bells, horns, lights, reflectors and tassels. The RM of Ritchot Fire Department also participates The event was such a success that it has grown to include a local Teddy Bear Picnic, where children by bringing out a fire truck for the kids to explore.

Steinbach RCMP Search for Missing Girl On June 20, the Steinbach RCMP was notified that Gillian Mikayla Bruce, a 15-year-old girl from the RM of Tache, was missing. The investigation has determined that Bruce failed to show up for her drive back home and had runaway during a family visit to Winnipeg two days prior, on June 18, 2016. Bruce is described as aboriginal, 5’4” tall, weighing approximately 145 lbs, has long black hair, brown eyes and a mole on her upper right cheek. Bruce was last seen wearing a black tank top, black Michael Jordan shorts, and black flat top shoes. “While our investigation so far has confirmed that Gillian left on her own accord and likely does not want to be located, we are doing everything we can to confirm her well being,” said Sgt Bert Paquet of the Manitoba RCMP. “Several different agencies and resources have been dedicated to finding Gillian and we are asking that members of the public assist our efforts as well.” Anyone with information

regarding the whereabouts of Bruce, is asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP 204-326-4452, the Winnipeg StreetReach 204945-6941 or call Manitoba Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800222-8477, submit a secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).

Quad Stolen in RM of La Broquerie

Rona Celebrates New Building in La Broquerie Rona customers looking for more variety locally can now save themselves a trip to Winnipeg after the recent grand opening of a new store on the west side of La Broquerie. Farrell Rempel, the owner of the La Broquerie Rona is pleased that the building is completed and they are open for business. The new store is located along Highway 52, west of the hotel. Rempel said the new building is 15,000 square feet and can house more inventory. “We won’t have all the things that the stores in Winnipeg do, but a good portion,” Rempel said. “It is also more user friendly, for both the employees and customers.” La Broquerie Lumber draws a majority of their clients from the communities of La Broquerie, Marchand, Richer, Woodridge, Ste. Anne, Grunthal, Mitchell and Steinbach.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

On June 17, the Steinbach RCMP responded to a report of a stolen quad from a residence on Provincial Road 210 in the RM of La Broquerie. The quad was stolen sometime between 10 pm Wednesday, June 15 to Friday, June 17. The quad is a 2007 Kawasaki Brute Force 750cc, green. If you have any information in regards to the above theft you are asked to contact the Steinbach A quad was stolen similar to this. RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 text “TIPMAN” plus your message or manitobacrimestoppers.com or to Crimes (274637). The new La Broquerie Rona is open for business.

Thieves Rummage Through Vehicles

“We had people coming to see what we have from the Winnipeg flyers, but they are unable to pick it up because we don’t currently carry them,” Rempel continued. “This gave us the incentive to build a larger building.” Now that the La Broquerie Rona has relocated into their On May 16, Steinbach RCMP new building, the old building located on Main Street is received complaints that overnight expected to be torn down to make room for a 55-plus ground vehicles had been damaged and level housing unit. personal items stolen. Two of the incidents occurred on Chaddington Bay in Steinbach and another one on Giesbrecht Street. In one of the vehicles, a unique backpack containing personal more food vendors and live material was taken. entertainment. Many countries If you have any information in were represented through song, dance and music. Local artists also regards to the above incidents you had a chance to display their work are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 and some even held live or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 demonstrations of their craft in a or manitobacrimestoppers.com or bistro type atmosphere. text “TIPMAN” plus your message When it came to music, the to Crimes (274637). Summer in the City organizing committee had three major acts slated to take the stage. The weekend kicked off Friday with music by REPLAY – The Beatles Tribute & 60’s Invasion. On Saturday, Black Jack Billy took the Venders and live entertainment lined Steinbach’s Main Street during this year’s Summer in stage. the City, which took place June 17, 18 and 19. Steinbach’s Summer in the City came to an end on Sunday after shoppers were treated to fantastic Worship in the City wrapped up By Marianne Curtis city wide deals as participating the weekend’s festivities. businesses remind shoppers why Despite some rain, this year’s “It’s Worth The Trip!” to Summer in the City Festival was Steinbach. Over forty vendors well attended. For three days, lined the streets and thousands Steinbach’s Main Street was Taking the stage during this transformed into a bustling hub of took advantage of the street side year’s Summer in the City sales. activity complete with sidewalk was Friday night’s headlining Cultures in the City, hosted by sales, live music and tons of act REPLAY – The Beatles Eastman Immigrant Services was entertainment and fun. Tribute & 60’s Invasion. once again a big hit with even Taking place from June 17-19,

Summer in the City Fills the Streets

Photos by Marianne Curtis


Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

July 2016

23

Successfully plan your holiday escape Make these trips memorable by reducing travelrelated stressors. Millions of travelers take to the roads, rails and sky in the days surrounding major holidays. While a large percentage of people travel miles and miles to visit with friends and family members these times of year, others use days off from school and work as prime times for vacations. Holiday excursions can be exciting, but they may require some extra planning and patience. Larger crowds at airports and more cars on the roads can make holiday-timed travel challenging. Make these trips memorable by reducing travel-related stressors. Research thoroughly Study your travel options to determine the best way to get from point A to point B. Weigh the cost of your trip as well as the time involved in traveling. Driving may seem like a good idea if you don’t want to stretch your budget, but it may eat up too much of your vacation time if you’re traveling long distances. If you will be flying, learn the airline baggage restrictions and the security measures in place at your departing airports. This makes navigating the airport that much easier. Planning well in advance also enables you to get the best prices possible. Develop a contingency plan Even the best laid plans can go awry. Know what to do in the event a particular rest stop or scenic spot along the way is closed or if travel plans get delayed or rerouted. Certain travel apps provide real-time updates on delays or provide gate numbers prior to arriving at the airport. Other apps indicate which gas stations have the lowest prices or which rest stops offer the cleanest bathrooms. Take your car in for a tune-up Drivers should make sure their vehicles are in good working condition prior to departure. More cars are on the roads during holidays, and that means a greater potential for stop-and-go traffic, which can put added stress on the vehicle. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition to avoid flats or blowouts, which can delay your trip. Pack light Ship gifts or keepsakes ahead of time so you do not have much to lug through airport terminals or rail stations. If you must take gifts with you, wait until you arrive at your destination before wrapping them, as this makes items easier to inspect. If you’re going on vacation instead of just a weekend getaway, you will probably return home with more items than you brought because of gifts or souvenirs. Pack an extra tote bag or an empty carry-on suitcase where you can store extra items accumulated on the trip. Otherwise, see if these things can be shipped home. It may be cheaper to ship items than to pay airline baggage fees. Travel off-peak It’s often quicker and less stressful to travel during off-peak hours when roads and airports are less crowded. Off-peak hours include overnight, early morning or late evening. Red-eye flights or off-peak travel times also may be less expensive. Travelers looking to avoid crowded roadways or airports may also want to avoid especially popular travel days. Leave a few days before a major holiday or arrive a few days after to avoid the crowds.

Travel with your own snacks Failure to eat or drink can do more than lead to hunger pangs and dehydration. It can make the body sluggish and may affect your ability to deal with minor (or major) irritations. Pack nutritious snacks and take breaks to refuel your body. Remember your destination If you find holiday travel stressful, focus on the comforting thought that once you get to your destination you can kick back and relax. Do not overbook your trip and leave yourself time to unwind and decompress.


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July 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch


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