Dawson Trail Dispatch March 2016

Weather Perfect for WinterFest

Falk Discusses Economy and End of Life Legislation

By Marianne Curtis

The WinterFest activities at Dawson Trail Park in Richer recently took advantage of almost perfect weather as about a hundred people from the community and surrounding area came out to enjoy some mild weathered winter fun.

The event, hosted by the Richer Daycare, has grown

into a community event with a free BBQ, sleigh rides and activities for kids including face painting, coin and candy scrambles, snowman building contest and more.

Special guests this year included Dora the Explorer and a Minion.

Provencher MP Ted Falk said he is glad to be back in Ottawa after MPs went back to work at the end of January.

Although the 42nd Parliament began in December, Parliament sat for a brief week and a half, before the Christmas break. They returned for their first full session at the end of January. “It is a great honour to continue to serve the people of Provencher in our nation’s capital,” said Falk. “This new Parliament offers us an opportunity to work with the government while keeping them accountable.”

Falk said there are a number of issues the country is facing, and he will continue to work hard to make sure that the government of Canada focuses on the issues that matter. “Some of these issues include the weakening Canadian economy and the Liberal Government’s reaction to doctor assisted suicide,” he continued. “As of recent, the Canadian economy began to rapidly deteriorate. There is no way of knowing how bad the situation will get, however I believe that the government of Canada must be ready to deal with whatever comes our way.”

Falk urges the Liberal government to make sound financial decisions. “They made many election promises this past fall, however, in light of new economic realities; I recommend that the government takes this into account. What started out as a promise to run small deficits could turn into the government running larger than expected shortfalls,” Falk added.

He said that as a father and a grandfather, he wants to be able to leave the country in good financial shape for the next generation. “I do not want our grandchildren inheriting a debt that we could have otherwise avoided. I know that governments cannot control the economy, but they can influence the economy by how they react and stimulate the various sectors,” he concluded. “This is not the time to increase taxes!”

In addition, Falk maintains clear opposition to legislation on medically assisted dying, an end of life decision by declaring, “Not only is it a slippery slope, I also believe that it’s wrong. The Liberal Government has been given a four month extension to make a decision on which direction they will go.” He urges them to do the right thing.

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March 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

March 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Students Collect Dresses for Upcoming Graduates

For two days, the community of New Bothwell gathered to enjoy a variety of winter activities and food during their annual winter festival.

Taking place on February 19 and 20, the event consisted of events such as a cribbage tournament, pancake breakfast, bingo, colouring contests, hockey, skating, ice scrambles and silent auction.

Chantelle Dueck, one of the many volunteers who made the event possible was pleased with the response from the community. “Our theme this year was uniting our community and it was nice to see how everyone worked together to do their part,” said Dueck. “Seeing everyone that came out to support the community and have a great time uniting together, it made all this hard work worth while.”

The day ended with a spectacular fireworks display.

By Marianne Curtis If your closet is getting too full to fit new clothes or if you have an old grad gown or bridesmaid dress that you will never wear again and if you would like that space back then let the Steinbach Regional Secondary School (SRSS) Flexible Education programs help you out.

According to teacher Brad McColm, SRSS Integrations and The Learning Centre are collecting gently used gowns to be given away to any potential graduate in Hanover School Division. “We are currently in the process of collecting gently used grad gowns so that they can be given to future graduates who cannot afford to purchase a new one of their own,” explained McColm.

Collection of the gowns was held on February 19 and February 20. So far, the class has collected about sixteen gowns that grads can choose from.

“We started collecting last weekend, but unfortunately word got out a little too late to get a good response,” McColm continued. “We know that this will probably catch on once word gets around.”

Further collection will occur at The Learning Centre across from the Hanover School Division office in the huts attached to the Pat Porter Centre.

The gowns will be sorted,

New Bothwell Festival Celebrates Unity

Students from the Integrations and The Learning Centre are collecting grad dresses for perspective graduates who may otherwise not be able to afford a new dress.

organized, and available to be looked at and picked up March 4 from 4 – 8 pm and March 5 at 11 am – 3pm.

Further donations will be accepted during those times as well.

If a student is not able to make it to any of those two shopping weekends, then they can contact

their school guidance counsellor to arrange to see the dresses.

At this time, the group is not accepting shoes or accessories, but may do so in future years.

For more information, contact Brad McColm at bmccolm@hsd.ca or 204326-6426.

Horse drawn wagon rides was one of the many activities during the New Bothwell Winter festival.

This group of youngsters are ready for some ice activities

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Niverville Councillor Joins Provincial Liberal Campaign

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Great Feed Back in Tourism Consultations Throughout January the RM offices of Stuartburn and Piney combined their efforts to conduct an online, mail-out survey of residents to ask what made our area unique, and what could be attractive to visitors.

Over 250 surveys were completed to provide insight into what they love about where they live, tourism and recreational opportunities. At the same time, public consultations were conducted in Woodridge, Vita and Sprague.

According to council, slippery roads and winter rain did not sway attendance at the meetings and were incredibly insightful. “The consultations provided a great forum to hear what residents think tourists might be interested in,” said Mel Parent, RM of Piney Councillor. “We got some great feedback and we’re excited with the results.”

The results of the survey and first-round public consultations are being compiled and taken into consideration in the development of a Tourism Strategy. The strategy will be unveiled, discussed and explained during a second round of public consultations in March.

The RM offices received a grant from a Government funding program called Partner 4 Growth and began working with Rick and Brigitte Kemp of Critical Eye Consulting, who specialize in fundraising, tourism development and marketing. The Kemps live in Ste. Anne, while Rick’s parents reside in Stuartburn.

Two more public consultations will take place at the Vita Hall on March 22 and at the Vassar Hall on March 23. Both meetings run from 7 – 9 pm.

By Marianne Curtis Niverville resident, businessman and former town councillor John Falk has put municipal politics aside in an effort to gain a seat in the legislature in the upcoming provincial election.

At the end of February, provincial Liberal leader Rana Bokhari welcomed Falk to the team. “I am honoured by the sacrifice of John Falk to give up his council seat to seek election as a Liberal MLA in the constituency of Morris,” stated Bokhari. “John is a well respected businessman, and will give residents a real choice in the coming election.”

For the past seven years, Falk has served as a Town of Niverville Councillor, a position he was forced to vacate. He admits he did not aspire to run provincially until he was recently approached by the Liberal leader. “As a life long resident in Niverville I feel in some ways the Morris Riding has either been taken for granted or ignored by the other parties,” explained Falk. “Not saying we have not received anything, however we are not seen as a swing riding by either the PC or NDP parties and so most of the attention and dollars are spent elsewhere.”

Falk believes that Manitoba is ready for change and a national Liberal win could translate positively here at home. “I believe the Federal election results show that people were tired of the status quo and wanted change. I feel this has carried over to this election,” Falk continued. “There seems to be a lot of frustration with the current government and many are looking at the Manitoba Liberal Party as a very viable, competent and positive option for the current government and the official opposition.”

Falk is confident that Morris is ready for a Liberal MLA despite a history of voting blue. “Just because we have always done things one way

March 2016

Provincial Liberal leader Rana Bokhari welcomes John Falk to the team.

does not necessarily mean it’s the best way. The Manitoba Liberal Party does care about rural Manitoba which is evident by many of the policies that have been introduced,” Falk stressed. “I am not here to convince voters. First and foremost, I need to listen to what their issues are, and then share our policies with them. Then they themselves can

make an informed decision regardless of what party they have supported in the past.”

Falk said the most important role an MLA can play is to listen to the concerns and suggestions people have to improve things and then work hard to find a solution.

Anyone wishing to speak to Falk is encouraged to call 204-898-1343 or email him at jfalk@edgebusinesssolutions.ca.

RCMP Seek Identity of Person of Interest The Steinbach RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the following person who may be able to provide information into a current RCMP investigation.

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

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March 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Where’s the Budget?

On February 24, MLAs resumed this session of the 40th Manitoba Legislature. But there is a big difference between this session and those of the past - this year, Greg Selinger and the NDP are not bringing forward a provincial budget.

Last April, Finance Minister Greg Dewar said, “There will be another budget before the next election.” The NDP government then spent a significant amount of taxpayers’ dollars on budget consultations, yet it is not bringing forward a budget. What is the Selinger NDP hiding?

The Premier says there is no time this year for a detailed financial blueprint, and blames a lack of information regarding money the province will receive from the federal government’s budget and its stimulus spending. However, since last November’s Throne Speech, the Selinger NDP has made spending promises totaling $6.6 billion with more than 130 such announcements in January alone. Selinger and the NDP are willing to make spending promises, but are not willing to tell Manitobans where they will find the money.

Manitobans deserve a complete and detailed budget so they can make informed choices for the election on April 19.

As taxpayers are the primary funders of the provincial budget, Manitobans deserve to know what the NDP is hiding. What tax increases will be implemented in order to pay for the hundreds of new promises, financial mismanagement and increasing debt of this NDP government?

Before the 2011 general election, Selinger promised he would not raise the provincial sales tax. “That’s ridiculous!” he said. We all know how well he kept that promise. The Selinger NDP has subjected Manitobans to some of the largest tax increases in the province’s history. The NDP broadened the PST and then hiked its rate from seven per cent to eight per cent - a 14 per cent overall increase in the amount Manitobans pay. This PST expansion and increase together have brought the NDP government more than $1 billion. Yet the NDP still can’t produce a balanced budget, shorten emergency room wait times, decrease ambulance fees or improve the education of our children.

It looks as though many NDP MLAs are experiencing the same frustrations and mistrust of the Premier as Manitoba taxpayers, as several prominent NDP caucus members have decided not to run for re-election in April. If the NDP’s elected members are jumping ship, it certainly shows Manitobans how much they can trust Selinger.

On April 19, a change for the better is coming. Let’s make sure our children and grandchildren have a future in Manitoba that is not burdened by mountains of debt and mismanagement. I look forward to hearing from you with any questions or concerns. I can be reached at my constituency office at 204-424-5406, my Legislature office at 204-9454339 or at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca.

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

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Is Canada Doing its Fair Share?

Now that Canada has pulled its CF-18s out of its combat role in the Middle East, the debate is raging in Parliament that we are not doing our fair share in the Middle East.

The air campaign was meant to degrade and defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria. An air campaign most certainly degrades any enemy by knocking out its military gear, its defensive bunkers and troops when visible or caught in the open.

But for the end game troops on the ground is still the only effective pre-requisite. It is also the best way to control collateral damage, which is civilian body count. For this part of the conflict, we have increased our troops on the ground and called them trainers but refrain from calling them combat troops. The type of training provided is quite often at the front lines bringing the fight to the enemy. Their orders, you can defend yourself and your Peshmerga team when being fired upon.

This apparently cannot be called combat. Why? It’s a quirky weird political thing.

Rest assured if fired upon, you can be certain that nobody in Ottawa will be making the decision whether or not to fire

in the area that is on our side.

It is important to understand that ISIS is operating in Libya.

A training camp of note was bombed with a large component of ISIS combatants destroyed. It is also interesting to note that Special Forces from France and Italy are on the ground in that country to facilitate the end game in Libya. back, the quid pro quo on the This Libyan affair ground at the moment will be demonstrates that the original combat in every sense of the bombing strategy definitely got word. rid of Muammar Gaddafi, but in Our choice of training the the absence of any credible Peshmerga (Kurdish militia) governmental institutions in the reflects the religious and cultural realities on the ground. Aside from aftermath, militias with nothing on their minds but mischief tried training this militia, we are to fill the vacuum with providing them with munitions, disastrous consequences. optical equipment, mortar and This has demonstrated in machine guns. We are also Technicolor that bombing is supplying medical teams to only a good beginning. Canada provide medical front line emergency and training. Although also is providing much these Kurds in Iraq are citizens of humanitarian help, but the local mix of Syria’s collapse, ISIS’s Iraq in this case, their cousins murderous demeanour, Kurds populate parts of Syria and wanting their own homeland, Turkey. They are mistrusted by these same countries governments the Shiites and Sunnis suffering century’s old mistrust of each (cultural animosities going back other and everybody else, plus centuries) therefore, they would Russia’s stirring the pot, just find it difficult to acquire necessary weapons to get the job because they can, building institutions will take time. I done from their governments. don’t know, maybe a hell of a Because Canada is supplying long time or never, take your them, bears out this unfortunate reality. I might add that this militia pick. Depends if you are is the most credible fighting force optimistic or pessimistic.

Keeping Health Care Strong for the Future Our NDP team believes in putting patients and their families first.

When we ask Manitobans what kind of province they want to see in 2020, they tell us that robust health care services for families are a major part of that vision.

We will support an exciting new partnership with the Reh-Fit Centre to build the Pan Am Clinic of the future—a one-stop shop that combines the Reh-Fit Centre’s focus on healthy living and injury/illness prevention with the Pan Am’s focus on treatment and rehabilitation.

We are ushering in a new era of women’s health care with: a state-of-the-art Women’s Hospital, an expansion of the Women’s Health Clinic, more access to midwives, a breast milk bank and an expansion of the Fertility Treatment Tax Credit.

A new state-of-the-art CancerCare facility will give Manitobans better access to expanded treatment.

We will continue to build new personal care homes with an added focus on high-needs patients suffering from Alzheimer?s and dementia, and we will make sure seniors get the individualized attention they need in a culturally responsive environment.

We will enhance funding to seniors centres and work with our partners to develop more seniors housing and improve palliative care services, including partnering to build the International Centre for Dignity and Palliative Care.

We will also enhance our Emergency Medical Services system and move towards equalizing and reducing ambulance and other fees.

Unfortunately, not everyone believes in a public health care system that supports every family.

When Conservative leader Brian Pallister was a cabinet minister in Gary Filmon’s government, they tried to privatize home care. Now, he’s talking about bringing American-style, two-tier health care to Manitoba—where regular Manitobans would be pushed to the back of the line. That’s unacceptable.

We also recognize that it’s important to invest in the social determinants of health: To be healthy, we need access to healthy food. Our NDP team will continue to expand local production of healthy foods across the North, and work with producers and the agricultural sector to bring local foods to new markets.

Together with community partners like Make Poverty History Manitoba, we will take steps to increase the minimum wage and bring the incomes of Manitoba families above the poverty line.

Brian Pallister’s plan includes privatizing the delivery of social services. This would help corporations profit on the backs the poorest.

We will develop more social and affordable housing with our partners, and work to end homelessness.

We will develop a variety of supports for young people with complex needs and those who are struggling with opiate addictions. We will put in place new standards of service in northern Manitoba.

As always, I appreciate hearing your comments and thoughts. I encourage you to contact me by email: ron.lemieux@yourmanitoba.ca, by phone (204-878-4644), or by mail at Box 517, Lorette, MB R0A 0Y0.

Together we can continue to move Dawson Trail and Manitoba forward.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Feeding Politicians Should Never be More Important than Feeding the Hungry On Friday February 26, I was honoured to announce my Private Member’s Bill at the Helping Hands Food Bank in Steinbach. The name of my bill is The Fairness in Charitable Gifts Act (Bill C-239) and it is aimed at: - Increasing the number of donors to registered charities, - Empowering charities; and - Levelling the playing field between donors to political parties and donors to charitable organizations.

How will this be achieved? With bill C-239, donors to registered charities would now receive the same tax credits that donors to political parties currently receive.

There is an imbalance in how different types of donations are treated in Canada. Many people don’t realize that Federal tax credits for political contributions far exceed federal tax credits for donations to all other charities. Donors to political parties enjoy much higher tax receipts for their donations than do donors to charities.

Canadian charities, both secular and faith-based, deliver critical social support services to communities across the country and are well equipped to provide meaningful support to Canadians in conjunction with government services. With this bill, charitable organizations will be empowered to take on a greater role because of the additional donations generated from the new tax incentives.

Unfortunately, the average number of Canadians donating to charities has been on a long-term decline across the country. The percentage of tax filers claiming donations has fallen from almost 30% to just over 20% over the past 25 years. This is a very concerning trend.

According to Statistics Canada, in 2010, 10% of donors accounted for 63% of all charitable donations in Canada. It’s obvious that a rebalancing is needed.

This bill will provide the largest incentive to the largest segments of the population - those who currently donate under $400 per year as well as those who currently do not donate at all.

How will this work? As an example, John, who lives in Manitoba, makes donations during the year to the registered charities of his choice totalling $400.

Under the current charitable tax credit system, John would receive a federal tax credit of $88 and a provincial tax credit of $56.40 for a total of $144.40. The actual cost of his donation is $255.60.

Under the Fairness in Charitable Gifts Act, John would receive a federal tax credit of $300 as well as the tax credit of $56.40 from the Province of Ontario, for a total of $356.40 in total tax credits. The actual cost of John’s $400 donation would now be only $43.60.

The reason that I chose to announce this in our riding is that according to Statistics Canada, the gold standard for generosity in the country is indeed right here in southeastern Manitoba. While the median dollar donation across the country has generally averaged $250 to $350 per person, residents of Steinbach were the most generous with a median donation of $1,830.

Among smaller centres in Provencher, towns such as Blumenort, Kleefeld and Landmark led the way.

If you believe in a greater role for charities and would like to see charities on an equal playing field with political parties, I would encourage you to contact the party leaders at The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau - justin.trudeau@parl.gc.ca, the Honourable Rona Ambrose rona.ambrose@parl.gc.ca, the Honourable Thomas Mulcair - thomas.mulcair@parl.gc.ca and Honourable Elizabeth May - Elizabeth.May@parl.gc.ca.

Thank You to Mayor Hunt Dear Editor: I would like to commend Mayor Jackie Hunt for recognizing Kyle Nordick, a local member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, at the January 19 City Council Meeting.

Mayor Hunt presented Kyle with a certificate for his long-time involvement with The War Amps and for helping to spread important messages in the community. Kyle has been a Junior Counsellor to younger amputees at CHAMP seminars. He also helps spread the Association’s PLAYSAFE message, as he has met children who have lost limbs in accidents that could have been prevented and passes on the remembrance message to the younger generation through The War Amps Operation Legacy.

We are so pleased with Kyle’s welldeserved recognition by the Municipality of Ritchot.

Sincerely, Danita Chisholm, Executive Director, CHAMP Program The War Amps

HyLife Commits to Significant Community Fundraiser On March 18 and 19, the employees from HyLife in La Broquerie will be participating in their 6th annual community fundraiser in hopes of raising $150,000 for local charities.

The HyLife Fun Days is an annual vendor and employee sponsored charity fundraising event. Since its debut, the two-day fundraiser focused on hockey and broomball competition. “The objective of our fundraising event is to bring together HyLife staff and our valued vendors and suppliers to generate donations in the form of sponsorship whereby all net proceeds are equally divided and presented to identify charities,” said Charlene Ramkissoon from HyLife.

This year the event will feature hockey and basketball, with ten teams, including several girls’ teams, participating. The community event also includes a vendor show, potluck dinner, cultural show and homemade chilli dinner.

Three worthwhile charities will split the funds, including Recreation Opportunities for Children (ROC), Eden Health Care Services and the Bethesda Foundation.

Previously the event has raised a combined total of $200,000 in support of Cystic Fibrosis Canada, the Canadian CMV Foundation and Backstage Teen Drop-In Centre, CancerCare Manitoba, Children’s Wish Foundation, Southern Health’s Out of the Blue Program, Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, The Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba and Special Olympics Manitoba to name a few.

The two-day event will be taking place at the HyLife Centre in La Broquerie, formerly known as the La Broquerie Arena.

March 2016

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Another Choice in Dawson Trail Dear Editor: With the April 19 provincial election hurrying around the corner, Manitobans’ are looking forward to giving the ruling NDP the boot it so richly deserves. However, the fly in the ointment as I can attest to after two years of door knocking in Dawson Trail, is the lack of trust in the Conservatives. The voters are clearly tired of the shiny platform packages that will be jettisoned at the first opportunity upon election.

They clearly stated that they don’t trust Brian Pallister not to do the same.

The picture that the voters paint is one of a ruling party of elite power brokers beholden to their special interest groups and one of the opposition elite power brokers beholden to their special interest groups, waiting impatiently to get their snouts in the trough. Not a pretty picture. My own loss to a clearly unqualified candidate is just one more example of the control of the few to manipulate the many. Other examples may be found in Assiniboia, Fort Richmond, Gimli, Selkirk, River East, Maples The Pas and Seine River ridings. Most voters could not be bothered about the details of how or why this is done, but it suffices to say they feel something nefarious is happening, which translates into mistrust.

Saskatchewan is doing well after the destruction of the old boys’ club that made up the Saskatchewan PC Party. People that were tired of self-serving politicians founded the Saskatchewan Party, which is arguably the best government in Canada. The PC Party of Saskatchewan no longer exists.

Alberta is now saddled with the most destructive government in Canada, the NDP, due to being utterly fed up with the shenanigans of the old boys’ club that made up the PC party of Alberta. The Wildrose party is made up of people like the Saskatchewan Party who want to go back to the basics of good governance. The BC PC party no longer exists, more the same reasons and Ontario’s PC’s are on life support.

The point is not Left or Right politics but parties that have stagnated.

Parties need reformation periodically in order to stay on message and still be relevant to the current needs and situations of the people they represent.

The Manitoba Party is that answer to the plea of the voters to be truly heard. It is made up of left and right wing members who share a desire to provide good government in the face of poor performances by the “good old boys” way of doing business to the voters. That way is broken; the people are not fooled anymore. I believe that good governance is the result of good hands on management. That takes a lot of homework and dedication, something I think is sorely lacking with the choices we are presented with.

I believe that a good idea will float on its own merits, as a bad idea will sink for the same reason. I too was misled when I vetted the PC party prior to running as a candidate. I had hoped and asked the pertinent questions to see if the rot I knew that existed had been indeed purged; it was not. I found it very tough to be an active grassroots player on a team that only wanted to play on artificial turf. As such after 25 years, I resigned from the PC Party of Manitoba.

Since doing so, I am amazed at how many other people that have opened up about their previous links to the party and why they left. Importantly to me is how many people I signed up memberships to the party that only signed up to support me, Thank you.

That being said I believe the people of Dawson Trail deserve a representative that understands Dawson Trail. Manitoba needs new blood, work ethic and ideas to go forward well into the future, therefore I am working with the Manitoba Party as the candidate for Dawson Trail. Yes, we are small, but as anyone out there that has heard me speak, I bring well thought out ideas and present them with passion for the people of Dawson Trail and Manitoba. Unfettered by special interest groups we are the change for the better. I believe in a better Manitoba, do you?

David Sutherland Landmark, MB

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March 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Manitoba RCMP Festival of Friends Makes Respond to Return to St. Malo Online Threat On February 19, just before 11 am, Manitoba RCMP received information from the Onalaska Wisconsin Police Department as well as the Oswego New York Police Department of a potential shooting threat to a school in Manitoba.

The threat was detected during a multiplayer online game called Call of Duty when one of the players made a threat. The player stated that he was going to start a school shooting within hours but did not mention the school. Other players within that game immediately reported the threats to their local police departments, the Onalaska Wisconsin Police Department and the Oswego New York Police Department.

Officer Barry Holm, of the Onalaska police in Wisconsin said three threatening messages were sent. One message said, “I don’t think I will be on. I’m sick of bullies at my school. The school’s going to pay.” The message went on to say that, the player hoped he would be making it out alive and that the school shooting would commence 50 minutes. “And there was another message that came through that said, ‘We’re commencing in 30 minutes.

Four of my friends versus 234 students and 24 teachers,’” continued Officer Holm. This message was followed by a third that said it would start in 23 minutes and I love all of you.

Once reported, the two US law enforcement agencies worked with the manufacturer of the video game console and later, the RCMP’s Integrated Technological Crime Unit to determine an exact address for the player making the threats. The investigation confirmed that the player ’s account belonged to a youth from a small community in southeastern Manitoba.

RCMP officers immediately attended the address of the player making the threats but were unable to locate him. All schools in the vicinity of the suspect’s residence were notified and patrolled by officers.

That same day, a 12-year-old youth was located at his residence in St. Joseph and arrested without incident for uttering threats.

Further investigation confirmed that the youth did not have access to firearms. He was remanded in custody over the weekend and is now scheduled to appear in Court on March 1. “The public expects us to assume the threats are real and our officers responded accordingly until we were in a position to confirm otherwise,” said Sgt. Bert Paquet of the Manitoba RCMP. “The quick thinking and prompt actions of officers from several different sections in two different countries were key to successfully locating and apprehending the youth associated to the threats.”

“From Onalaska, Wisconsin and Oswego, New York to a small community in Manitoba, the threats were immediately taken seriously, and investigated with promptness

and efficiency,” added Paquet.

“Our common border never hindered the progress of the investigation.”

The RCMP reminds parents to monitor the online activities of their children by keeping video game consoles and computers in common areas as much as possible and to ensure that their children report any threats they may see online immediately to police.

RM of De Salaberry Gets Federal Green Funding A project in the RM of De Salaberry is one of twenty approved projects that will share the $31.5 million in Green Municipal Fund (GMF) grants and loans across Canada.

The RM of De Salaberry will receive a $138,490 grant so they can conduct a field test for municipal organic waste collection and composting in St. Pierre-Jolys and De Salaberry.

The $31.5 million in GMF funding supports plans, studies, field tests and capital projects to assist in making these communities more sustainable while taking into account environmental, social and economic considerations.

Georges Beaudry was recognised for all his work in previous years for Friends of the St.Malo Park.

By Marianne Curtis Fans of the region’s newest winter festival flocked to St. Malo when the annual Festival of Friends returned on February 14.

The combination of the beautiful weather and a variety of activities drew hundreds of participants to St. Malo for a spectacular celebration of culture, cuisine and traditions.

Shanna Berard, Vice President of the Friends of the Park Board said the festival is a great way to get the community together and enjoy winter. “Our fundraising these days is going towards the construction of an all-season building for St. Malo Provincial Park,” Berard explained. “It will just allow us to bring more programs to the park all year round.”

Ice skating, cross-country skiing, and three-on-three sponge hockey took place in the park while various competitions and live entertainment were held in town.

On Saturday morning, Actif Epica ultra marathon started in St. Malo, followed by a community pancake breakfast and the day wrapped up with a free movie night. On Sunday, there was a huge big bonfire where visitors made bannock, followed by a community social.

The St. Malo Festival of Friends was established in 2008 and dedicated to celebrating and highlighting the Francophone and Métis culture of the region. The annual festival includes winter activities as well as demonstrations of the local historical Francophone and Métis heritage.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Calling all musicians for KR Barkman Park Concerts We are now taking applications for the Concerts in the Park series. These are free concerts in KR Barkman Park on Main Street, proudly sponsored by Barkman Concrete Foundation. Looking for singers, instrumentalists, groups Check out all programs, events and purchase tickets online steinbachartscouncil.ca or call 204-346-1077.

Calling All Amateur Artists!

Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit applications online - All ages, and all mediums from Southeastern Manitoba - watercolor, drawing, oils, acrylics, photography, quilting, eggery, crafts, and more. Deadline: Thursday, March 10 and submit your artwork by Thursday, March 24. No entry fees for students!

Applications for performing artists on the SCU Main Stage and Visual Arts Artist Tent are available online or at SAC Office. Deadline is Thursday, March 10.

Get Your Spot! Spring Break Out! Camps Don’t Miss The Adrenaline Rush! Ages 5 - 8 and ages 9 - 12. Two camps jam packed with creativity through dance, music, visual arts drama, recreation and more. Camp runs from Monday, March 28 – Friday, April 1.

Don’t miss out on your spot…limited spaces available.

Spring Break opportunities Get involved Director or Assistant Director for our Spring Break Out! Camp ages 5 - 8 and 9 -12. Two Director Positions and two Assistant Director Positions available.

Send resume to programs@steinbachartscouncil.ca by Friday, March 4.

Looking for Summer Camp Directors and Assistant Directors Camps run Wednesday, July 6 – Friday, August 26, from 9 am – 4 pm daily. Computer proficiency, strong organizational skills and good communication skills are required. An interest in Music, Dance, Drama, Visual Arts and Sports is an asset. Send resume to Cassandra at programs@steinbachartscouncil.ca by Friday, March 18.

Spring Workshops!

Lease beautiful Local Art - For your Home or Business Change the look of your home or office - we can customize something just for you! Come and check out many pieces by local artists at our Centre. We will come in to install and remove it - you just enjoy it! And support your local artists at the same time.

Performers and Visual Artists!

Join the Creative Youth Council!

The next Turnip the Music! Event is Friday, May 13 at Randolph garage - call to join in the fun! Other events include the Summer in the City Festival youth zone.

Communications/Marketing Coordinator 35 hrs/wk, 45 wks/yr, with experience in graphic design, web and social media skills an asset. Organized, able to juggle many tasks in fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines.

Send resume to director@steinbachartscouncil.ca.

Tickets on sale now for mainstage@home!

This fundraiser for the performing arts centre will feature many of your local favorite artists on Thursday, April 28 at the Steinbach Mennonite Church. No admission - accepting donations for tax receipts.

Annual Gala On Friday, May 6 - Get your tickets for the ‘Celebrate the Arts’ In Shades of White! Gala Fundraiser. It will feature a theme on different shades of white….with special entertainment, delicious food, an evening of dance, and fun!

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

Hall Gallery Art Exhibit The South East Artists (SEA) Mosaic Art Exhibit is currently displayed until Tuesday, Apr 5 in our Hall Gallery. Toonie donations graciously accepted.

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and performers to perform in the park during June/ July. Download application forms online. Deadline is Monday April 6.

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

Legion Donates Mattresses to Vita and District Health Centre

Calling all Artists! Summer in the City Festival

Cake X-Travaganza Workshop - On Saturday, March 5. Learn the basics of cake decorating including piping, sculpting, working with fondant, gum paste and more!

Acrylic Painting Workshop - On Saturday, March 12. Explore a spring landscape for beginners introducing acrylics to those who are not familiar with this medium.

Tuesdays - Hatha Yoga at 7 pm and Zumba drop in classes, 8 pm with Eddie Miller.

Adults - Beginner Watercolour & Oil Painting Friday Night Strings - Discover the FUN of playing violin together. Join other violinists on Friday nights. Make new friends. View all details on website.

EARLY BIRD! Arts for Tots Preschool Program. Early Fall Registration starts Friday, April 1.

Parents love our Arts focus! Ages 3 - 5 learn early childhood education through Dance, Theatre, Music, Visual Arts... and Culture! Monday through Thursday, mornings or afternoons.

March 2016

Steinbach Legion #190 Branch President Bill Richards presented Janet Chobotar, Director of Health Service, Vita and Area, with a $2,000 cheque for the purchase of four new, long-term care mattresses.

The Steinbach Legion #190 made a special donation from the Poppy Fund to the Vita Hospital for the purchase of four new, longterm care mattresses for the facility.

Last month, Branch President Bill Richards visited the hospital to make the $2,000 cheque presentation to Janet Chobotar, Director of Health Service Vita and Area and was able to see one of the new long-term care mattresses, three of them were already put to service.

The Poppy Fund has strict rules about how the money can be dispersed, with priorities to veterans, their immediate family and the community. According to Richards, the suggestion to assist the Vita hospital was made after the 2015 Poppy Campaign wrapped up and the Legion seen how supportive the communities of Vita, Sprague and Piney had been and opted to do something that would be a benefit to their residents.

When the hospital was contacted about a possible donation, the Legion was informed that a number of long-term care mattresses had already been purchased. However, with limited funds not all could be replaced. The Legion was happy to assist in this way as a show of their appreciation to the local communities for their support of the annual Poppy Campaign over the past several years.

The Steinbach Branch also donated $1,000 from the Poppy Fund to Deer Lodge Centre for the replacement of several over-bed tables.

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March 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

What is Jesus’ Objective?

Luke 6:20-23... 20) Looking at his disciples, he said, “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.” 21) “Blessed are you who hunger now for you will be satisfied.

Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.” 22) “Blessed are you when people hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man.” 23) “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their ancestors treated the prophets.” (NIV) What is Jesus doing here? Well you might say that He is training and preparing His disciples for their future ministry. He reminds them that they will experience both joy and sorrow.

They will be set apart for a very special ministry. There will be times when they will go hungry and still feel satisfied. There will be moments when they shall weep and laugh. They will feel the hatred of people who will snub, ignore and banish them, saying they are evil people, an anti Christian group. However, Jesus says, “Be glad. Leap for joy because great is your reward in heaven... that is how the prophets of old were treated.”

Imagine for a moment Jesus phoning, writing or e-mailing every reader of this column and then hand picking a bunch of us … whether female or male does not matter … to be His friends. How would we feel? What kind of thoughts would run through our mind? Why me? I cannot do the things important people do. But, you know what; all He wants from us is our friendship. It is an amazing thing that Jesus needs human friendship. He wants you and me to be His friends, if we refuse there is a blank in his heart until we come home to Him. When we read these few verses we can see Jesus promising his disciples three things, that they would be fearless, very happy and in constant trouble. It is Jesus’ teaching that the joy of heaven will more than enough pay or compensate for the trouble of this world. We must always look at the challenge of the Bible and ask ourselves the question, where do I fit in?

Considering Luke’s perspective, we should remember that probably many of the people who listened to Jesus were no different then you and me. Jesus wants to assure us that God sees our faith and we will not be forgotten. He after all was kind to all peoples – the ordinary – everyday folks.

So often, I claim to be just as good as other folks, and maybe I am, because I will make sure to pick the worst of the bunch for the comparison. But the question Jesus is asking, “Not if I think I am better than other people?” It is not other people with whom I must compare myself. It is God’s Word what I must compare myself with and in that comparison, I will inevitably fail. For us, the value system of the world has been such an influence, that Christ’s value sometimes seems unrealistic. I can remember when we condemned TV, but now we clamour for more, we now want 365 channels and we do not mind paying for it, after all, there are two Christian channels we say. But we need to realize that our attitude toward life is different with the attitude of those who have very little respect for Christian values. Our values should be different. Others may laugh at us, but the Bible teaches that we should love even those who do the laughing.

Question: How easy is it for us to apologize? How easy is it for us to take advice? Do we find it easy to profit from mistakes? Would it not be better if now and then we would shoulder a deserved blame? Would it not be better if we would admit, we were wrong or selfish? Yes, to think and then act is sometimes not that easy. It is much easier to say; “Well it all started back then.” How about the idea of controlling an unruly temper, is that easy?

I have heard it said, “Those are just crusty grumpy grouchy old men who have unruly tempers.” What is that? Does it mean some men are dipped in a batter and then deep-fried? Do those grumpy grouchy crusty old folks also need to forgive and forget? I know it is not always easy to be loving, kind, charitable, and considerate and to make the best of every situation. But it always pays... To God Be the Glory.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2016

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Unattended Snowmobile Stolen

Steinbach RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a Black Skidoo MXZX 800 that was stolen on the Snowmobile trail behind Double S Truck Stop in Richer on February 7 between 12 and 4:30 pm.

The owner went to retrieve parts for the Skidoo, a couple picked him up and drove him to his truck, when they all came back to the location of the Skidoo it was gone.

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

The Power of Conversion Have you ever been converted? Most people who have trusted Jesus Christ to forgive their sins and asked Him to make them a child of God would whole heartedly say, “Yes.” But maybe we have misunderstood what the Bible means when it talks about being converted.

Jesus Christ said to Peter, just before His arrest and crucifixion, “But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” (Luke 22:32) Peter had been with Jesus for over three years at this time. He definitely was a believer in Christ, but according to Christ, not converted.

So what is the difference between becoming a believer and being converted? A believer is one who has come to the point in their life when they realize they are a sinner before Almighty God and there’s nothing they can personally do to change that fact. They believe Jesus Christ died 2,000 years ago and shed His innocent blood as perfect payment for the sins of the whole world. (I John 2:2) They then ask God to apply His Son’s blood to their sin. At this point, they become a believer (saved, Christian, born again).

But being converted is a separate process that most often occurs after salvation. In many Christians, it never happens at all. Becoming a believer makes a change in your life, but being converted will make an even greater change.

To be converted means you are changed from one use to another. It means you are changed from one power source to another. When you purchase a converter from a store, it’s because you want to change one type of energy to another. You may change DC to AC. You may change 12 volt to 110 volt. There are many types of converters but one thing is for sure, the power coming out is different than the power coming in.

When a believer gets converted, his power source changes and the type of power he uses changes.

Most of us operate under our own power. We have the power and free will to exercise that power as we choose. We decide what we eat, the job we work at, the type of car we drive, who we marry, how many children we have, the type of house we live in and much more.

Once we give our heart to the Lord, we now have a choice to make. Do we still keep using our own power source to make decisions or do we turn that decision making over to a new power source, God? Matthew 18:3 says we need to be converted and become as little children. Little children know they can’t make decisions for themselves and they willingly put their trust in adults to do thing for them. Children don’t worry about the decisions that are being made for them. Can we, as God’s little children, get to that point in our lives where we trust Him for everything? Then we wouldn’t have to worry so much and we could be so much more content. God wants us to trust Him for decisions in our life and then trust Him to be the Power supplied to get the work done.

When we get to that level of our Christian life, we can truly say we’ve been converted. I think very few Christians reach this level of maturity. Most of us are afraid to give the controls of our life over to anyone else. We would rather use our own power (knowledge, wisdom and understanding) even if it gets us into trouble.

Here’s a challenge for you. If not saved, consider letting Jesus Christ forgive all your sin and make you a believer. If saved, consider being converted and let your power source be changed from your’s to God’s.

Both decisions lead to joy unspeakable. God bless!

Two Males Sought After by RCMP

The Steinbach RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two males who were involved in an incident in Kleefeld.

One male is described having brown hair with glasses and in his late 20s.

The second male is described as tall and lean with brown hair, also in his 20s.

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

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March 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

In the Sniper Zone A while back, I picked up a used copy of the Play Station 3 game, Sniper: Ghost Warrior. Amazing! This game is so much fun to play! The story goes along the lines that you are a soldier, a sniper to be exact, and your mission objective is to take down a drug cartel boss. Off and on fellow soldiers and residents of the areas aid you.

Travelling through jungles, mountains and villages you must constantly be on the alert to the presence of enemy soldiers. Wearing their camouflage clothes, the enemy can be quite hard to see sometimes, especially when you round a bend in the jungle track too quickly and find yourself face to face with a group of them. If luck is on your side, you can slip back into the foliage without being seen, when luck is not with you well then... it doesn’t take long before the option to restart from the last checkpoint appears.

Since playing this game, I have begun to develop a bit of a fascination with the concept of snipers and, since I don’t know any personally, I have turned to the next best thing... movies! I have purchased a DVD Sniper Collection, which contains the movies: Sniper, Sniper 2, Sniper 3 and Sniper Reloaded. I believe only the first three movies star the actor Tom Berenger, a man whom I feel is great at portraying the part of a hardened military sniper.

Another movie that I have watched is a movie called, Enemy at the Gates (2001).

This movie stars Jude Law as the Russian sniper Vassili Zaitsev and is a great movie not only for those interested in snipers but also for the drama, the action and yes, even some romance. While I’m not sure how much of this was true to life, historically speaking, I did see at the end of the movie some information about the man Vassili and it was written that his sniper rifle is on display in a museum in Russia. Road trip anyone?

It’s kind of funny how when a person has an interest in something, such as snipers, it seems as if that person becomes a bit of a magnet for more things of that nature.

Since peaking my interest in snipers, I have heard more stories from random people about the topic and have found there to be more movies on the topic then I originally would’ve thought. I guess it’s like when you buy a red van and only after that do you realize that everyone and their dog is driving a red van. Maybe it’s more a manner of awakening your awareness to it. Either way, for the time, I’m enjoying the skill, dedication and focus that are shown by the men and women in the sniping profession.

As for me, I’ll keep it in the game.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

St. Malo Man First Runner Across Actif Epica Finish Line

St. Malo’s Steve Graupner crossed the Actif Epica finish line just after midnight after running all the way from St. Malo to the Forks.

By Marianne Curtis A St. Malo man was the first jogger to cross the finish line after running the entire 130 km Actif Epica course, which started in St. Malo and ended at the Forks in Winnipeg. The one-day event consisted of either a 130 or 160 km bike challenge from St. Malo to St. Boniface on February 13.

According to his GPS, it took Steven Graupner 17 hours and 15 minutes to run 129.7 km.

He crossed the finish line about 15 minutes after midnight on February 14. He was the first of eight runners to complete the race. “I made it through another Actif Epica! The course was in excellent shape with not much snow, even some of the drifts were super firm,” explained Graupner. “Going to claim that the fitness was there to run strong right to the end, just needed a softer surface.”

Graupner is a veteran participant in the annual race. However, this is the first time he participated by running instead of cycling.

This year, cyclists had the option to tackle a longer 160 km course, as well as a revised 125 km option. Traditionally, the one-day event consists of a 130 km bike challenge from St. Malo to St. Boniface. The additional mileage allowed participants to visit the Senkiw Bridge. “As it was, things went very well for the first 110 km, then got beat down by so much road running, really struggled the last 20 km,” he added. “The river trail at the end was a little nicer at least. Thanks to all the organizers and volunteers for the great support along the way! Definitely needed it at the U of M checkpoint.”

The event drew sixty-two participants from both sides of the border including cyclists from Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Iowa, Connecticut, Minnesota, North Dakota, Colorado and Tennessee.

Of those registered, only fourteen cyclists completed the 125 km leg, and twenty-one cyclists finished the 160 km ride.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Sutherland Relaunches Bid for Dawson Trail

March 2016

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Steinbach Athlete Earns Prestigious Scholarship

SRSS student Keegan Teetaert accepts the Dr. Dale Iwanoczko Memorial Volleyball Scholarship from Don Iwanoczko.

By Marianne Curtis

David Sutherland from Landmark is vying for votes in Dawson Trail after rejoining the political race for a seat in Legislature during the upcoming provincial election.

By Marianne Curtis A Landmark man has re-entered the race as a candidate in the upcoming provincial election. A few months ago, David Sutherland failed to gain sufficient support from Dawson Trail Progressive Conservative backers when he pursued the nomination. Not ready to call it quits, Sutherland has abandoned the party and is now seeking voter support as the first Manitoba Party member to step forward in the region.

“Manitoban’s are looking forward to giving the ruling NDP the boot it so richly deserves,” stated Sutherland. “However the fly in the ointment as I can attest to after two years of door knocking in Dawson Trail, is the lack of trust in the Conservatives.”

“My loss to a clearly unqualified candidate is just one more example of the control of the few to manipulate the many.”

Voters are tired of the shiny platform packages that will be jettisoned at the first opportunity upon election,” he continued.

“They clearly stated that they don’t trust Brian Pallister not to do the same.”

“My loss to a clearly unqualified candidate is just one more example of the control of the few to manipulate the many,” Sutherland added. For the past two years, he campaigned for PC support throughout Dawson Trail.

However, prior to the nomination meeting, three other candidates surfaced and in the end, Bob Lagasse was named as the official candidate.

“I too was misled when I vetted the PC party prior to running as candidate. I found it very tough to be an active grassroots player on a team that only wanted to play on artificial turf,” he added. “After 25 years, I resigned from the PC Party of Manitoba. Since doing so, I am

amazed at how many other people that have opened up about their previous links to the party and why they left.”

Sutherland believes the Manitoba Pary is the answer to the plea of voters to be truly heard. “It is made up of left and right wing members who share a desire to provide good government in the face of poor performances by the “good old boys” way of doing business to the voters,” Sutherland continued. “Manitoba needs new blood, work ethics, and ideas to go forward well into the future.”

To date, the official candidates for the upcoming April 16 election in Dawson Trail constituency include David Sutherland (Manitoba Party), Terry Hayward (Liberal Party), Bob Lagasse (Progressive Conservative Party) and incumbent MLA Ron Lemieux (New Democratic Party).

“This is copying Saskatchewan [who] instituted very big tax cuts which shocked everybody and that place has been booming ever since. Yes, they had some help with the oil revenues. But it’s their tax policies that have kept that province head and shoulders above everybody else.” Manitoba Party president Gary Marshall

A Steinbach Regional Secondary School (SRSS) athlete has been named as a recipient of this year’s Dr. Dale Iwanoczko Memorial Volleyball Scholarship from the Manitoba High School Athletic Association.

On February 24, Keegan Teetaert of the SRSS Sabres was named as one of five recipients of the Dr. Dale Iwanoczko Memorial Volleyball Scholarship for 2015-2016.

Teetaert, is middle blocker for the SRSS Sabres and maintains a 97% grade average. In addition to volleyball, he participates on the basketball team and continues to play club and beach volleyball.

According to his coach, Teetaert is a leader among his peers and is constantly setting an example of hard work. He is involved with the local food bank, volunteers at his church, and with fundraising for children in underdeveloped countries.

Upon graduation, Teetaert plans to play volleyball at the University of Winnipeg, eventually going to Concordia University to secure a degree in engineering.

The $1,000 scholarship is awarded annually to five players in the province. To be eligible for the scholarship, a student must be proceeding to a post-secondary institution and have a minimum 65% academic average. The individual must have proficiency in volleyball, while academic standing, community activities, and citizenship are also considered.

The Dr. Dale Iwanoczko Memorial Volleyball Scholarships are awarded annually in memory of Selkirk, Manitoba volleyball player, Dr. Dale Iwanoczko.

Iwanoczko played volleyball with University of Manitoba Bisons where he was named a five-time All-Canadian. He obtained his medical degree from the University of Manitoba, before passing away at the age of thirty, from Hodgkin’s disease. A number of Iwanoczko’s friends, have organized an annual golf tournament to raise funds for this scholarship named in his honour and memory.

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March 2016

Crow Wing Trail Association Seeks Heritage Designation

By Marianne Curtis The Crow Wing Trail Association is looking for municipal support to back their intent to seek Heritage Highway Designation for portions of the trail, which were built onto the original Crow Wing Trail. The Heritage Highway Designation is the first step of a multi-phased approach to image build, brand and market the south central region as an established and authentic Heritage Corridor.

Murielle Bugera, President of the Crow Wing Trail said a heritage designation would ensure long-term sustainability of the Crow Wing Trail, which has historical importance for the province and Canada. “Having the Crow Wing Trail designated as a heritage trail would be quite significant to the area and to the trail itself,� said Bugera.

The Crow Wing Trail was a historical trade route connecting the Red River settlement of Fort Garry, present-day Winnipeg, with St. Paul, Minnesota. For years, the trail was tucked away in history, but with the construction of the Trans Canada Trail, it has enjoyed a revival in interest.

Designating the Crow Wing Trail Heritage Highway is expected to help raise awareness to the public as well as heritage buffs and purists that are prone to sticking with windshield tourism, whether for time or mobility restraints. Extending the promotion of the Crow Wing Trail from the original trail to the heritage highway will assist visitors so that they are not left to their own devices as they travel the region.

It will also promote the heritage corridor as a place to go for conservation, tourism such as horse drawn carriage experiences, canoeing routes, and dog sledding; education through heritage guides and school programs and recreation such as Actif Epica.

The Crow Wing Trail goes through the communities of Emerson, Ridgeville, St. Malo, St-Pierre-Jolys, Otterburne, Niverville and St. Adolphe, as well as the municipalities of Franklin, De Salaberry and Ritchot and the Roseau River First Nations.

Across Canada, there are hundreds of trails coast to coast installed and run by national and provincial parks, the Canadian Wildlife Service, tourist departments, conservation authorities, museums, universities, schools, and private agencies.

In Manitoba, the only official heritage trails are established in Riding Mountain National Park.

There are seven designated heritage trails within the park’s boundaries.

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

“What would you do if you were outside and without a blanket? I can’t imagine anyone having to live that way.”

Niverville Woman Makes Blankets for Siloam Mission

March 2016

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Annual Polar Bear Dare Supports KidSport

Clarence Bergen (right) and Brett Allen (left) from Urban Life in Steinbach won the prize for being the most entertaining duo to participate in this year’s Polar Bear Dare.

Another crazy, fun filled and entertaining day was had by all when the fifth Annual Polar Bear Dare event took place. Over $9,000 was raised to support KidSport during the February 20 event in Lac du Bonnet Thirty jumpers braved the cold water including Clarence Bergen and Brett Allen from Urban Life. The dynamic duo performed a batman routine before taking the frigid plunge.

In the past 5 years, the event has raised over $100,000 for KidSport. Donations are still being accepted at sportmanitoba.ca/polar-bear-dare.

As part of this year’s event, the Title Sponsors Urban Life and Radiant Pools have donated a $10,000 pool that is being raffled off, with proceeds going to KidSport. Tickets are sold by various sport clubs and you can get a list by contacting the Sport Manitoba office at 204-268-2172. The draw will be made in Steinbach on May 14.

Helen Hiebert a 90-year-old great grandmother living in Niverville displays the kind of blanket she’s made for Siloam Mission.

By Marianne Curtis A 90-year-old woman from Niverville has been making handmade blankets for Siloam Mission for years. Siloam Mission recently took to social media to bring awareness to what this great-grandmother is doing in her part to help others.

Hiebert has been sewing for most of her life and started making blankets for Siloam a few years ago. She can’t remember how many she has made, but that’s not important, she said. “The need is there, and it gives me something to do,” she said. “What would you do if you were outside and without a blanket? I can’t imagine anyone having to live that way.”

Siloam Mission spokesperson Al Foster said the organization is grateful for Hiebert’s dedication and generosity. “Helen dropped off ten blankets, her latest shipment of handmade pieces of warmth to Siloam,” said Foster. “What a beautiful and generous soul Helen is. The best part is, she had a hard time understanding what all the fuss was about!”

Foster said that she included an extra bed sheet with each blanket so that people who did not have a bed could lay out the sheet on the ground to sleep on. “Helen said if people don’t have a bed, they could put the sheet on the ground to sleep on,” said Foster.

To date, Hiebert has made and donated between 15 and 20 blankets to Siloam Mission. She has also donated blankets to the Niverville Thrift Store and sold another box to buy batting.

Hiebert sews the blankets from bed sheets that her daughter gets from a thrift store. The hobby started a few years ago, when her daughter was able to purchase a dozen boxes of blue bed sheets for $10 a box at a Salvation Army. Each blanket requires The Railyard Rednecks take a leap of faith at the annual Polar Bear just over two sheets.

Dare.

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March 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Local Photographer Wins Video Contest

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Leap Year Baby Born at Home

By Marianne Curtis A photographer from Steinbach has been declared the winner of this year’s “Just Watch Me” contest, which honours disabled entrepreneurs.

On February 18, April Marie Harel and her company Apryl Harel Photography were named as the winner of the top prize in the “Just Watch Me” video contest – Prairie Edition. The photographer was one of four finalists competing for $1,000 top prize. In an online vote, she received over 45% of the 3,646 votes cast.

The video contest is an initiative of the Community Futures Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP), and aims to get more people with disabilities interested in being their own bosses. Since the contest went live in December thirteen entries were received from people with selfidentified disabilities or ongoing health conditions operating a business in rural Saskatchewan or Manitoba. Two winners from both provinces were awarded cash prices and a number of other tools that could assist in their business operations.

Along with the $1,000 cash prize, Harel also receives mentoring and business prizes from several sponsors.

Cody Epp, the owner of Eppic Industries in La Broquerie took home third place in the “Just Watch Me” video contest.

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

Becky Cianflone from Community Futures Triple R presents Apryl Harel her first place contest prizes.

Becky Cianflone presents Cody Epp owner of Eppic Industries in La Broquerie with his third place contest prizes.

Free Workshop for Women’s Self-defence and Children’s Safety Awareness The Lorette Branch Kang’s Taekwondo Academy will be presenting a free Women’s Selfdefence and Children’s Safety Awareness Workshop and Seminar on Tuesday March 29 and Thursday March 31 from 6 - 8 pm at the Notre Dame de Lorette Parish Hall located adjacent to the Lorette Roman Catholic Church, 1282 Dawson Road.

Presenter Master Michael Tam, a 5th Dan Degree Black Belt holder of Chang Moo Kwan and of the World Taekwondo Federation will lead participants in a brief introduction on aspects of simple self-defence, child safety outside the home, and an awareness of surroundings will be demonstrated.

Women and children of all ages are welcome to attend and their spouses are welcome to come and watch. To attend the free workshop, bring long pants, sweat pants are preferable and Master Tam requests that women refrain from wearing muscle shirts.

A Richer couple welcomed their new daughter at home, in the middle of a snow storm. What makes Caysee Eve Melanson’s birth even more special is that she was born at 1:04 am on Feb 29, making her a “leapling” or leap year baby.

Mom Deanne says they were expecting to deliver Caysee at home, but her late arrival put them in a precarious position.

“She was supposed to be due on the 26th. Everyone expected her to be early like my last two,” Deanne explained. “But she had other plans; my water broke at 4:30 pm Feb 28.”

The new mom thought baby would be born that day because her last labor went fast during two previous deliveries. But this time, nature took its time.

Deanne says she called the midwife back and was afraid that due to the weather, the midwife would she miss the birth.

“What a relief when they arrived safely and with time to spare!” Deanne stated.

Some mathematicians say the chance of a person being born on a leap day is one in 1,461. There are approximately 10,000 leaplers registered as members of a special honour society that connects others who celebrate their birthdays only once, every four years.

Meth Traffickers Charged Four people have been charged with methamphetamine trafficking after a Steinbach RCMP GIS unit and Altona Police Service led investigation.

Shortly after midnight on February 6, police executed a search warrant on a residence in Morris. Police arrested four people inside the residence for methamphetamine trafficking seizing methamphetamine, scales, money and packaging materials from the residence. Evidence gained by the police also lead to a second search warrant being executed on a vehicle from Lorette in which police found further methamphetamine, scale and packaging materials. Police officers from the Emerson and Morris RCMP detachments and the Winkler Police Service assisted in the investigation.

Because of this investigation, Rachel Jacques of Morris has been charged with trafficking methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking and breaching the conditions of her recognizance.

Jordon Demare of Morris has been charged with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking and breaching the conditions of his undertaking. Jordon Demare has been remanded into custody. Both individuals Jacques and Demare have been remanded into custody.

Travis St. Jacques of Steinbach has been charged with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking and possession of the proceeds of crime and Rachel Morris of Lorette has been charged with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking. Morris and St. Jacques have been released and are currently bound by the conditions of a recognizance and will appear in court in Steinbach on March 3.

Both Rachel Jacques and Jordon Demare had been arrested and charged on December 3, 2015, for several offences including trafficking methamphetamine following Project Doorman, an investigation into methamphetamine trafficking in southeastern Manitoba. Both are still currently on bail for those charges.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

The 2015 Tax Season is Underway!

Since Canada Revenue Agency opened on February 15, we have been busy filing tax returns for many individuals in the area and clients are reporting they have been getting their refunds in their bank accounts in as little as 8 business days!

Remember if you are still missing some tax slips, we may be able to get them for you directly from Canada Revenue Agency so you don’t have to wait. Almost all t-slips are now available from CRA’s secure site.

I’d like to share a few items for the tax filers that will be coming in during the next eight weeks prior to the May 2 filing deadline.

The first item I’ve been noticing is for families (those with children under 18). The tax refunds are much smaller than they were a year ago. Your refund could be as much as $600 less for each of your children under 18.

There are two reasons for this.

First, the enhanced Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB) was introduced for 2015. Families with children aged six to 18 received $60 per month and the amount for children under age six was increased to $160 per month.

All of this is taxable income for the spouse with the lower income. This will increase the taxes payable by that spouse, or the other spouse that normally claims the spousal amount will see a much lower tax refund for 2015.

The second reason for lower tax refunds is the elimination of the Children’s Credit (nonrefundable credit for each child under age 18). This credit was about $2,300 in 2014 and saved $343 in taxes per child. This credit was eliminated for 2015 and is no longer available to claim.

Between the increased taxable income from the UCCB and the reduction of the Children’s Credit, it means smaller refunds for 2015.

It means you had increased cash flow during the year instead of waiting for the cash flow when you file your tax return. Just be prepared for the smaller refund!

Low-income families who do not have taxes payable will likely not see any difference in their refunds.

The only good news is the Family Tax Cut remains for 2015.

It was introduced for the 2014 tax year and helps families with the two parents in different tax brackets. But this will be the final year.

Another reminder for families is to keep all the receipts for the children’s activities (fitness and arts related). The Fitness Credit is now a refundable credit, so even low income families can benefit and get some of the expense refunded.

A reminder for all taxpayers: medical expenses. Go to your

regular pharmacy (or more than one) and ask for a detailed printout for the entire 2015 year for all family members. That way, you do not need to keep those little receipts and you make sure you have them all. Make sure you keep every medical expense that you had to pay out of pocket. That includes any premiums you may have paid directly from your bank account or deducted from your paycheque. Be sure to keep your last paystub of 2015 so we can get that info. Sometimes the amount may be on your T4 (look for box 85 at the bottom to see if it is there), but usually it is not.

And if your plan covers 80%, we need to include the 20% that was not covered: eye exams, eyeglasses, dental, chiropractor, and more. Unfortunately, massage therapy cannot be claimed by Manitoba taxpayers (call your MLA on that one!).

One expense that is often missed is Laser Eye Surgery. If you forgot to claim it in the past 10 years, we can make an adjustment.

Remember to keep record of all your medical trips that were 40 km or more one way to see a medical professional that does not exist in your local area. For those of us in the rural area it’s often into Winnipeg to see a specialist.

If you have to travel, more than 80 km one way you get to claim the 47 cents per km plus parking plus a meal ($17). If you needed to stay overnight, you can claim the accommodation too.

Many people cannot use their medical expenses on their taxes.

Many seniors and others without employment income and do not have taxes payable cannot claim the medical expenses. It’s a non-refundable tax credit, so if you have no taxes payable, it can’t be reduce beyond zero.

But if you do have some employment or self-employment income of at least $3,000, you may be eligible for the refundable medical expense rebate (for low-income employed taxpayers with medical expenses).

Finally one last tip. If you have been receiving your tax refund and GST credits by cheque, you won’t anymore. CRA is insisting to pay everything by direct deposit. So remember to bring a void cheque or your banking information (bank number, branch number, account number) with you when you get your taxes completed.

Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and Certified Financial Planner; living, working, and volunteering in our community. Contact us at 204-422-6631 or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Co-op) or Info@SteAnneTaxService.ca.

March 2016

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Spray Paint Vandals Wanted Steinbach RCMP needs the public’s assistance in solving multiple related vandalism that occurred sometime Saturday night February 6 in Mitchell and Steinbach. The culprits sprayed fluorescent orange, green, black paint and drew profanities on houses, garage doors and vehicles.

Should any see anyone with fresh paint on their clothing or hands, please contact the Steinbach RCMP with this information.

Steinbach RCMP is also requesting that people and businesses review their video footage over the past few days, but with special attention from Saturday evening, February 6, 11 pm to Sunday morning February 7, 8 am. The vehicle that could have been involved is a 2008 Honda Civic, a blue 4 door, with Manitoba licence plate HBZ 415. If this vehicle is noted, please contact the Steinbach

RCMP Detachment.

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

RCMP Search for Stolen Vehicle On February 16, the Steinbach RCMP responded to a report of a stolen car from a residence on Creekside Drive in Steinbach.

The white 2005 Toyota Camry with a Manitoba Licence Plate DRD 180 was stolen sometime between February 10 and February 16.

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

Family Winter Fun in Blumenort The community of Blumenort has closed the books on another successful community Family Fun Day. Karen Doyle Hopkins, one of the events many organizers, was pleased with this year’s attendance for the one day event that took place on February 15. “So another Family Day is done and in the books and what a day it was! What an awesome day! We had so much fun!” said Doyle. “Thank you to everyone who helped out even in the smallest way.

Without you we couldn’t carry on and to Blumenort thank you for coming out, joining the fun and supporting us as a committee.”

Activities included sleigh rides, candy, coin and grocery scrambles, sled races, tube rides and milk can curling.

The Blumenort Vintage Snowmobile Club did some racing during Family Fun Day.

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March 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Affordable Seniors’ Housing Investigated in Tache

By Marianne Curtis The Les Chevaliers de Colomb de Lorette (Knights of Columbus) is in the process of gathering public input to determine the level of interest and support for the construction of a proposed new Seniors Residence in the Lorette area.

An Affordable Senior Housing “Needs Assessment” Survey was mailed out at the end of February, to all the residents of the RM of Tache.

The survey’s objective is to determine the level of interest and support for the construction of a new Seniors Residence in the RM of Tache, to serve the needs of seniors 55+ who wish to remain or reside in the community.

According to Leo Desmarais, the Les Chevaliers de Colomb de Lorette (Knights of Columbus) recognized

the need for improved and additional housing for seniors in the area. “With the support from the RM of Tache, [Economic Development Council for Manitoba Bilingual Municipalities] CDEM and several community members, a Seniors Residence Steering Committee was formed to identify the needs of the community, assess support for new housing facilities and determine the process for going forward,” Desmarias explained.

To date the Committee has toured existing senior housing facilities in Ste Anne, Steinbach, La Broquerie, Oakbank, Dugald and Brandon holding discussions with the RM of Tache and Provincial Government, along with Manitoba Housing for financing programs. They have also met with Building Consultants and Developers, obtained access to land

in the town of Lorette and requested government grants.

Desmarais said the next step is to consult the community to determine long-term housing needs. “Efforts must be made to develop affordable housing for seniors on a fixed income,” said Desmarias. “We need to optimize all federal and provincial funding programs and maximize the government’s Rent Geared to Income seniors’ subsidy program.”

Since government grants and programs will only fund a small portion of the construction costs, there may be a requirement to mount a considerable fund raising effort to develop subsidized housing. An independent developer has provided preliminary information to the committee indicating a multi-unit seniors building could be under construction within the year.

Occupants are required to deposit in the range of $40,000 - $89,000 and pay in the range of $600 - $1,300 per month for a 600 - 1,400sq.ft.per unit.

The organization is currently undertaking a needs assessment to determine what kind of facility would best be suited. Options include independent living which could be life lease, or senior housing coop. Assisted living, supportive housing and personal care homes are being considered.

All residents and interested seniors are asked to complete the survey and drop it off at 1 of 6 locations in Lorette, Landmark and Ste Genevieve. The submission deadline is March 31. For more information, contact Leo Desmarais at 204 961-1442 or leoandsuzie@gmail.com.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Speeder Served with Heavy Fines On February 18 around 2:45 pm, Steinbach RCMP were patrolling near New Bothwell when they observed a vehicle speeding.

An 18-year-old female driver was travelling at 144 km in a posted 90 km zone. The driver was charged for speeding and issued an offence notice for $756. Due to the high speed, 54 km over the speed limit, the driver was also issued a Serious Offence Notice, which advises the driver that their license may be suspended or cancelled without further notice.

RCMP Seek Tips on Fire Emergency Services responded to a fire on February 7 at 3 am, located just west of Steinbach on Westland Drive. Steinbach RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in obtaining any relevant information regarding the fire, which is still under investigation.

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

National Grant Funds Trail Signage The Crow Wing Trail Association was successful in receiving a National Trails Coalition Grant that allowed the group to do more maintenance.

The projects that were completed include redoing the stairs south of the Senkiw Bridge, and fixing two bridges, including the Emerson Bridge and the steel bridge over the Coulée des Naults between St. Malo and St. Pierre-Jolys.

Funding is also being used to start the process of installing signs to better identify access points. The access points to be addressed are at the St. Pierre-Jolys Museum, St. Malo Museum, Senkiw Bridge, St. Adolphe South Dike, Niverville Hespeler Park and Emerson.

Access marking will be followed up with signs on provincial highways, to make the Trans Canada Trail more visible.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Co-op Pledges Support for Foundation The Board of Ste. Anne Co-op met with representatives from Bethesda Foundation pledging a $500,000 contribution to support the Foundation in its efforts to construct a Primary Care Centre, to assist with the addition of more personal care beds and to improve the surgical department at the Bethesda Regional Health Centre in Steinbach.

The new Bethesda Primary Care Centre was officially announced earlier this month with construction to begin in the spring of 2016.

Menno Plett, President of Ste. Anne Co-op noted, “When we look back over the last 10 years and see the population growth of southeastern Manitoba, we clearly see that our Health Care Services have not kept up to this growth, specifically the need for more doctors and long term health care beds.”

“It is an honour to give back to our community,” added Plett. “The Bethesda Foundation Board has done a tremendous job and has worked tirelessly to raise funds and

continue building our Health Care Services here in Steinbach, which really is the hub for Southeastern Manitoba. This aligns with Ste. Anne Co-op’s mission and values as we serve the people of Southeastern Manitoba. At some point, we will all need Health Care Services, so this donation benefits everyone here in Southeastern Manitoba.

“This donation from Ste. Anne Coop exemplifies the community support we need to allow these projects to become a reality,” said Garth Reimer, Chair of Bethesda Foundation. “This leadership pledge will have a large impact. On behalf of the Foundation, I’d like to thank the Ste. Anne Co-op for its community vision.”

Vassar Author Releases Third Book at McNally

By Marianne Curtis Kim Cayer, a Vassar native living in Toronto, returned home recently to celebrate the release of her third novel called No Fire Escape in Hell at McNally Robinson Bookstores.

On February 26, about thirty people came out to celebrate the release of No Fire Escape in Hell during a special book launch event at McNally Robinson Bookstores in Winnipeg.

At the event, Cayer’s brother Travis shared some lighthearted remarks before Cayer took to the stage to read a few excerpts from her latest project.

No Fire Escape in Hell is the story of Maddy, a singing-telegram performer and is the proud mother to an over-achiever. The downside?

She’s in a mentally abusive relationship with her husband that she fears may turn physical at any time. Heartfelt and humorous, Cayer

Vassar native Kim Cayer recently launched her third book at McNally Robinson Bookstores.

will have you rooting for Maddy as she encounters the goodness in some folk, the badness in others, and endures sleepless nights avoiding the eye of police as she looks for places to take a nap.

Currently residing in Toronto, Cayer was raised in Vassar. While working for The Winnipeg Police Department, Cayer caught the acting bug when K-Tel’s “The Bird Dance” commercial featured her prominently. She left for Toronto to pursue an acting and writing career.

Her biggest role was as a regular character in the CBC’s miniseries Chasing Rainbows. Cayer wrote and starred in a play called Memories of Marilyn, which toured western Canada. Still working daily as an entertainer, she spends nights writing.

In 2014, she published Lights!

Camera! Dissatisfaction..., which is a hilarious story about a young woman trying to get into showbiz.

Previously, she wrote and published an e-book called Dirty Numbers, a creative non-fictional book about her crazy year working for a shady company.

March 2016

17

Selects Face Cougars

Selects All-Stars Landon Poiron, Curtis Brule, Kayle Tosh and Brad Goethals with Manitoba Midget AAA League President Blaine Peterson.

Photo by Carol Blocker.

By Rob Kanaski The final buzzer on the regular season has sounded and the Selects have finally found out whom their first round playoff opponents will be.

The Selects clinched the number one spot a few weeks back, but the last few playoff positions were up for grabs right until the final game of the schedule.

The Southwest Cougars picked up at least 1 point in four of their last five games to secure the final playoff spot for the 2015-16 season. They now have the daunting task of facing the Selects, a team that tied a league record for points in a season (83), and for the first time in team history, finished number one in the league standings. It has been a tremendous year for the Eastman squad with 40 regulation wins, 3 ties, and 1 regulation loss.

Other noteworthy accomplishments for this season was that the Selects forward Brad Goethals finished the season in top spot for scoring, in both goals (41), and points (74). He also announced on the weekend that he has committed to the Bemidji State University Beavers in the NCAA Division 1 Hockey Program. Goethals’ signing also shows the strength and depth of the Eastman Selects hockey Program and opens the doors for many other opportunities for local players in the future.

Forward Will Middleton finished the season in 6th place overall in points (52), while Kolten Kanaski finished in 3rd place overall in goals (30) and 11th in points (49). Rookie goaltender, Brendan Benoit, finished the year with the most wins (23) and fewest losses (0). Kayle Tosh finished the season as the top scoring defensemen in the league with 4 goals and 34 assists making a total of 38 points.

But all that is now in the past as the Selects now eye the championship and currently playing the Cougars in the first round.

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March 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Lorette Branch Taekwondo Scoops Up Belts

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Providence Aviation Program Gains Flight Simulator

By Lionel Bernier Students from Kang’s Taekwondo Academy clubs established in the communities of Lorette, Ile des Chênes, Niverville, and newly formed club in Ste. Agathe, gathered once again at the TransCanada Centre in Ile des Chênes recently for a promotion test.

Twenty-two students presented themselves to the testing committee with belt grades ranging from white to blue belt. From the Lorette Branch, six members, namely Maria Krawec, Elisabeth Fust, Derek Jolicoeur, Landon Handberg, Nathan Chartier, and Tristan Krawec felt ready to be recognized as holders of a yellow belt.

Traditional warm-up exercises consisting of various kicks, punches, jumping jacks, stretches, and knuckle pushups preceded a more rigorous testing schedule for the Lorette students. For the yellow belt level, a more advanced pattern of steps, kick and punch movements that are known, as poomse Taegeuk 1, il jang in Korean were required to be executed.

At all rural promotion test events hosted by Kang’s Taekwondo Academy, usually three students are recognized for their outstanding performance with certificates being presented. Maria Krawec was recognized by Master Charmaine Funk of Niverville Branch for her quality performance. Grandmaster King Yeung presented Elisabeth Fust with the second Improved Certificate equivalent to a silver award and presented Derek Jolicoeur with the Most Improved Certificate.

Recognition by the testing committee of Masters and Grandmaster can have a lasting positive effect on a student in all endeavours in taekwondo, in school, in the work force, and in life.

Third year aviation student Bardia Salimkhani sees the flight simulator as the best thing to happen to the Providence College Aviation program in years.

Back: Maria Krawec, Elisabeth Fust, and Master Michael Tam, middle Landon Handberg and Derek Jolicoeur, front Nathan Chartier and Tristan Krawec.

(l-r) Grandmaster King Yeung, Elisabeth Fust, Derek Jolicoeur, & Master Michael Tam.

Local Champ Recognized by Mayor A local “Champ” was recently recognized by Mayor Jackie Hunt of the RM of Ritchot.

Kyle Nordick, 14, of Ste. Agathe, was presented with a certificate

by Mayor Hunt to recognize his long-time involvement with The War Amps and for spreading important messages in the community.

Kyle, born a left arm amputee is a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program. He has been a Junior Counsellor to younger amputees at CHAMP Seminars, and helped spread The War Amps PLAYSAFE message by giving presentations, participating in regional parades and educating children to spot the danger in their neighbourhoods.

Kyle also helped pass on the remembrance message to the younger generation by laying a wreath at the local Remembrance Day ceremony on behalf of The War Amps Operation Legacy and conducting a presentation at the local school.Kyle Nordick2.jpg

...recognized his long-time involvement with The War Amps and for spreading important messages in the community.

The Aviation program at Providence is reaching new heights with the installation of a new flight simulator in its classroom.

The simulator, in which students can fly a wide selection of single or multi engine planes, was donated by Harv’s Air in Steinbach is used for instrument training. Harv’s Air, which is based in Steinbach has partnered with Providence College for a number of years to provide flight training to future pilots in the program.

With the ability to create many different situations, the simulator allows students to attain skills in how to react to virtually every situation. Future pilots can also fly out of a number of different airports with varying types of terrain.

Third year aviation student Bardia Salimkhani is studying to be a test pilot and Aviation Accident Investigator. He believes the simulator is a huge advancement for the program because it cuts costs, and wait times for students looking to get flight practice. “When you’re in a flight school, you have to book your simulator time,” he said. “There are many more students who have to use it, and they cost quite a bit. The great thing about the simulator is that you can always use it.”

With a required 20 hours of instrument training, the simulator provides students the opportunity to practice extensively for their in-flight tests. “This is one of the greatest additions we have on our campus,” said Salimkhani. “Our Aviation program has been around since 1984, and I don’t know of many schools that have had such great advancements in their facilities. It is truly a great benefit to the program.”

The flight simulator will be available for use beginning in September 2016.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

EG Penner Comes Through for Community Club

The Richer Community Club (RCC) is extending a huge thank you to EG Penner Building Supplies for the new BBQ for community events.

According to the community club, it was pretty close to FREE and they came through big time! Pictured is Markus Lange of EG Penner presenting Mark Lanouette, VP of the RCC with the new BBQ. Photo by Dan Guetre

Grunthal Woman Wins ROC First 50/50 Agatha Funk, from Grunthal took home a cheque for $18,055 after buying eight tickets in support of a recent Recreation Opportunities for Children (ROC) Eastman “50/50 for Kids” raffle. The winning ticket was split between the winner and ROC Eastman.

Moni Loewen, Executive Director for ROC Eastman is pleased with the community’s response to the 50/50 draw. Over $36,000 was raised in a matter of days. “ROC kids have a few more obstacles in life than most, isolation, lack of money, limited transportation, low self-esteem and stigma are some common ones,” said Loewen. “We hope ‘50/50 for Kids’ will reduce our waiting list and help us help more kids!”

Loewen said that ten children currently on the waiting list would now be accepted into the program thanks to the successful fundraiser.

“ROC has seen many positive changes in the kids and families we work with. They are proud of what they have created in an art class, a song they can play on a guitar, piano or drum set, learning to skate or confidence in the deep end,” Loewen continued. “They have made new friends and feel better about trying something difficult. Parents and kids have exciting things to talk about and look forward to.”

Recreation Opportunities for Children Eastman works with children in communities including St. Malo, St. Pierre-Jolys, Steinbach, Niverville, Blumenort, La Broquerie, Pine Falls and Beausejour.

March 2016

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March 2016

Sprague Skate-a-Thon Raises Arena Funds

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Recruitment Begins for Ste Agathe Fire Hall

The Sprague and Area Arena committee held their second annual Skate-a-Thon on February 25.

The students of Ross L. Gray School in Sprague accepted pledges, for an opportunity to win money and prize incentives. At the end of the day, $3,500 was raised for the arena.

The top fundraisers were Shaunti and Kayven Theriault, who raised $635 for the arena. They won a 4 pack of Manitoba Moose Tickets, in addition to other prizes.

All the proceeds collected will be used towards painting the interior of the arena.

RM of Ritchot Fire Fighter Diedre Perron (right) answers questions from individuals interested in joining the Ste. Agathe Fire Hall, should the project proceed as planned.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis Over a dozen fire fighter hopefuls responded to a call for recruits now that the RM of Ritchot has begun the process of establishing a new fire hall in Ste. Agathe.

Fifteen men and women attended the recruitment meeting on February 25, which took place in Ste. Agathe.

RM of Ritchot Fire Chief Scott Weir told the group that if all the stars line up, the community would have a new functioning fire hall by the summer of 2017. “We are fully committed to this, but let me be clear, this is just a proposal at this point,” Weir stressed. “We are here to determine if there is enough interest. We need at least 15 committed individuals for this to proceed.”

“We’ve been instructed to make this happen and we are committed to that,” said Deputy Fire Chief Paul Houle.

While the project is still in the preliminary stages, the RM of Ritchot Fire Department projects that hiring will take place in April, with the new recruits starting to respond to calls and attend drills in May.

In September 2016, the group would begin level 1 Fire Fighter Training. The community of Ste. Agathe would accept delivery of a new fire truck in February 2017, with construction of a new hall expected to be complete in April. The department is expected to be operational by July 2017.

Currently, the RM of Ritchot Fire Department consists of a fleet of thirty volunteers working out of two stations in Ile des Chene and St. Adolphe.

The need to build a third hall in the municipality has been driven by the construction of a number of new subdivisions, along with two canola plants in the area which have contributed significantly to the growth of the community.

According to the municipality, the proposed fire hall would likely be

built near the west entrance of the community. Depending on the final drawings, it could cost between $600,000 and $750,000.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

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

Falcon Lake Whiteshell Rocks Bonspiel- Men’s teams from Friday, March 4 –Sunday March 6. Ladies teams from Friday, March 11 – Sunday, March 13. Saturday night banquet included. Cost $200/ team. Contact Sean 204-349-8715, snedohin@nlis.ca.

hour per month? Contact Trevor, 204-955-3434 Lorettecopp@gmail.com.

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

Friedensfeld Whist drives - On Friday, March 4, 7:30 pm and Sunday, March Niverville 20, 12 noon, at the Community Centre. Admission $5, lunch is The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club – Meets every Monday at 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to become included. a better speaker, run meetings that are more effective or develop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Club is the place to Giroux Bingo - Every Thursday at Giroux Hall. Doors open at 5 pm, start. Contact Sheryl Berglund, Sberglund4@shaw.ca.

Bingo starts at 7 pm. Hall rental information for Socials, weddings, family functions, Meetings and more please call GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced the loss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learn Debbie 204-424-5506 or Mike 204-326-6260. about the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to register or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com.

Hadashville Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six. old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the stress release and have an excellent workout at the same lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.) time. Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com.

KSTA.academy@gmail.com.

Ile-des-Chênes Shake, Rattle and Roll – On Tuesdays to April 19 from 10 – 11 am. A physical literacy program for children ages 2-4 yrs old at the Trans Canada Centre IDC. Contact 204-803-6115 to register.

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

Baseball Registration - Seine River Minor Ball servicing Ile des Chenes, Grande Pointe and St. Adolphe. Ages 4 – 18 yrs (2012- Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at 1998). Visit srmb.countmein.com to register. Contact Alex at the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks 204-981-1610 for Baseball or Erin at 204-803-1213 for Softball. provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

Story Time in Pyjamas - Every Thursday evening at the Ritchot Richer Library Ecole Regional Gabrielle-Roy at 6:30 pm. Ages 2-8 Richer Recovery AA - Group meets Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Paul at 204-422-7673. however all ages are welcome.

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

Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey Pchajek Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating grades 8 and 12. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCC License # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243 or doreen@spmf.ca.

Sprague Sprague & District Historical Museum - Open by appointment Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturday from June – September 30. Explore life as it was in the early of every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn about days. Free Admission Donations Accepted. Contact 204-437Our Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive Blessed 2210, 204-437-2209 or 204-437-4686.

Rose Petals and other Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’s place of miracles. Contact Corinna 204-878-4908 or email her St. Adolphe at corinnaswetz@hotmail.com for more info and register. Old Tyme Dance – On Sunday, March 13 from 1 – 5 pm at the Community Centre Pioneer Hall. Cost $13 per person.

Kleefeld Community Playgroup - For parents, caregivers and children Recreational Soccer – On Tuesday, March 22 or Wednesday, up to age 5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs March 23 from 6 – 8 pm to sign a waiver. Ages 4 -11 yrs (2012and snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the 2005). Register online at https://goo.gl/xuEjc4. To activate Kleefeld Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013. your registration, come to the St. Adolphe Community Club, pay the registration fee and to select your child’s shirt size.

Contact Andrea at andreavermette@hotmail.com or 204La Broquerie Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de Santé 232-7872. from Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, 50+ Programs Programs at Ritchot Senior Services Active Living foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard Centre 457 Main St. maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Moving - Mondays 9:30 am Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan, 204- Yoga Fusion - Wednesday 10:30 am 424-5285 or labseinerss@gmail.com. Shopping Trips to Firm Up – Fridays 9:30 am Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month, 10-class pack for $40 or drop in fee $5 per class. Contact leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Janice at mjburn@shaw.ca or 204-883-2880.

Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm.

Weekly Bingo – On Tuesday nights at the St. Adolphe Cost $10.

Community Club. Doors open at 6 pm, 6:55 pm - Speedo Game, 7 pm - Early Bird Games, 7:30 pm - Regular Games. We Lorette Lorette Curling Club Open House – On Saturday, March 5, hope to see you there! Proceeds will support the Community from 7 - 10 pm. Ever wanted try curling? Here’s your opportunity! Club.

You just need to bring suitable footwear, such as runners (must be immaculately clean to go on ice surface). Brooms and St. Malo sliders will be made available. Coffee and refreshments, plus Chamber of Commerce Family Hockey Tournament – On try our Extra End bar. It’s not just about the game; it’s the Thursday, March 17 – Sunday, March 20. Register your team by phoning René 204-347-5548 or Darrell 204-347-7412. friends you make. Contact Wilma Pawluk 204-878-3405.

Limit 16 teams accepted. Come on out and enjoy lots of hockey, Lorette Soccer Registration - On Saturday, March 12, 11:30 am beer garden, great food and 50/50 draws at the Arena.

- 1:30 pm servicing Ile des Chenes and Grande Pointe at the Community Complex (behind the canteen) or Wednesday, Sponge Puck Hockey – On Wednesdays at 8 pm at the arena.

March 16, 6 -9 pm at Ecole Gabrielle Roy in IDC in the front Come out and play for fun. Contact Gilles 204-347-5079. lobby of the school. Ages 3 – 18 yrs (2013-1998). Contact St. Pierre-Jolys Alison alison_conrad@hotmail.com.

Sisters of the Holy Rock – On Sunday, May 1, 2 pm at the École Kang’s Taekwondo Academy – On Tuesday, March 29 and Communautaire Réal Berard. Fun music and awesome singing Thursday, March 31 a free Women’s Self-Defence and Children’s for the whole family. Cost $20. Contact for tickets Diane at 204Safety Awareness Workshop & Seminar from 6 - 8 pm at the 433-7518 or Gaby at 204-433-7761.

Notre Dame de Lorette Parish Hall 1282-An Dawson Road.

Presented by Master Michael Tam, a 5th Dan Degree Black Belt Step Aerobics with Weights - On Tuesday and Thursday at 7 holder of Chang Moo Kwan and of the World Taekwondo pm, at the ICSP School Gym. Contact Stephanie 204-320Federation. For all ages. Bring long pants (sweat pants are 2667, Louise 204-433-3839 or The Health Corner 204-4333891. preferable).

Annual Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit – Application Deadline Thursday, March 10. Artwork Submission Deadline Thursday, March 24. Adult Category (18+) $10 application fee, Juvenile Category (5-17) No fee. Entry forms available online steinbachartscouncil.ca or in person at 304 Second Street, Cultural Arts Centre. Opening Ceremony Friday, April 15 at 7 pm. Exhibit runs April 15 – May 18. Artwork Pickup Ste. Agathe Taekwondo - Every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:15 - 7:30 pm Wednesday, May 18. at Ecole Sainte Agathe hosted by Kang’s Taekwondo Academy.

Cost $40/month. Family rates available. Contact Jason 2016 Power Smart Manitoba Summer Games – From Sunday, Barnabe, jason.barnabe@gmail.com or 204-802-3458.

August 7 – Saturday, August 13. Volunteer to have fun, to experience a great time and to participate in the province’s Ste. Anne largest ongoing multi-sport program. Looking for 1,000 The Kingdom of God - Come and hear Pastor Ed Hildebrand on volunteers to welcome kids ages 10 - 17 from across the Friday, March 11 at 7 pm at the Seine River Banquet Hall 80- province. It is a great opportunity to meet new people, build A Arena Rd. Pastor Hildebrand of Seine River Church in Lorette, a sense of community and gain experience. There are various will share stories of God’s amazing power, which he and their volunteer opportunities; something for everyone. Volunteer team experienced in Uganda and Kenya in January of 2016. registration at manitobagames.ca. Come join in the fun. Dream He will also pray for any who need God’s touch, whether it! Live it! Contact the Games Office at 204-371-1212 or regarding some sickness or other need. All are welcome! For steinbach2016@sportmanitoba.ca. more info, call 204-371-6657.

Page to Film Night – Normally, the 4th Friday of the month at StoryTime - Every Tuesday until March 15 at 2 pm at Bibliothèque 7 pm, Jake Epp Library. Popcorn provided.

Sainte Anne Library. Come and enjoy story time with your preschooler. Stories, songs, crafts. Contact Eastman Safety Upcoming Programs: Located at 385 Loewen steannelib@steannemb.ca or call 204-422-9958.

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

International Cooking Classes - On the third Wednesday of the Hunter Education Course – On Monday, March 14 and Tuesday, month from 6 - 8:30 pm. Learn to cook authentic and original March 15 at 5 – 9 pm. Register online at eastmansafety.ca. foods from Columbia, India, Iraq, Philippines and Bolivia. Pre- Cost $60. register with the Town of Ste. Anne at 204-422-5293 or email town@steannemb.ca.

Eastman Immigrant Services - Many events and activities to support and help you make new friends. Start to make this Ste. Anne Cultural Committee - Invites artists of all kinds to community feel like your home. Volunteer to help at our their weekly open houses at 112 Centrale Ave. on Tuesdays community events. To register contact 204-346-6609, from 9 - 11:30 am and Wednesdays from 7 - 8:30 pm. These lois@eastmanis.com. gatherings are to bring artists together to work on and discuss Upcoming Events: Cultures in the Kitchen -Submit your recipe. their craft and there is no cost to attend. Contact Diane at 204- Help us create an amazing ethnic cookbook.

422-9599 or email cccsa@mymts.net.

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

Seine River Services for Seniors – Services and programs for Pronunciation Skills – Intermediate Pronunciation on Monday seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot and Wednesday from 5 – 7 pm. Advanced Pronunciation on care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard Monday and Wednesday from 7 – 9 pm at D4-284 Reimer Ave. maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Classes are free.

Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday Hip Hop – Every Tuesday for youth ages 8-15. of the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 Mommies Group at Kidzone - On Wednesdays, from 9 am - 1 am - 1 pm. Cost $10. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285 pm. Come by to meet other moms to chat with and get your Community Resource Coordinator for local services or e-mail kids to make some new friends. Cost $7, free coffee. labseinerss@gmail.com.

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

Ste. Geneviève Give adult colouring a try.

Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Event runs the second Wednesday of every month, from 6:30 Centre on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 - 8 pm, - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Come and go as it suits you. brings a large selection of books in both French and English, We’ll provide basic supplies (including tea and coffee. for children and adults. Special requests can be made to the librarian, bibliotachelibrary.com or in person. Come for a visit Games Day & Games Night – On the 1st Saturday from 12 – and see what we are all about.

5 pm every month and 3rd Wednesday every month from 6 – 8:30 pm, at the Jake Epp Library. Come down to play strategy Steinbach games. Bring a friend, your strategies and games. Test your Bud Spud & Steak – On Friday, March 4 from 5 – 9 pm at All skills and have fun. Ages 14 and up unless accompanied by D’S Restaurant, to support Royal Canadian Legion Branch #190. an adult.

Contact 204-326-6841, Cost $20. programs@jakeepplibrary.com.

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.

Providence College Lecture Series - At the Eastman Education Centre in Steinbach in March. Human Rights and Religion – Their Awkward Waltz, Tuesday, March 8 at 7 pm, and Jesus and Women – The Untold Stories, Tuesday, March 15 at 7 pm.

Admission free.

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bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns.

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

The Bethesda Regional Healthcare Auxiliary - meets on the first Tuesday of every month except for the months of July and August at the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone interested in auxiliary work. Contact Verna Thiessen at 3263028.

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

Contact 204-326-2313.

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

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

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

All are welcome.

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

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

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

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

Starting at 8:30 am, pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village. Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cash giveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from the casinos for those wishing to play. Overnight trips to South Beach Casino and Folklorama trips are also available. Contact Marilyn at 204-326-4939 for information and to reserve your seat.

Niverville Student Tri-Star

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 Home Buying Seminar – On Wednesday, March 9 from 7 - 9 lovers too and bring a friend. At the Jake Epp Library 255 pm. Cost is free. Learn tips and secrets of home buying with Elmdale St. Contact Tracey Pankratz 204-326-6841 professionals Lisa Gryba, Accredited Mortgage Professional programming@jakeepplibrary.com. and Gemma Brown, Lawyer. Limited seating so reserve your spot. Contact Jackie at 204-392-4175 or Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the United Church of jackiew@onelinkmortgage.com.

Steinbach, 541 Main St. Registration for girls 5-17. Develop personal values and well-being, self-respect and respect for Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser – On Saturday, March 12 from others; promote fun, friendship, adventure and challenges 8 - 11:30 am at the Steinbach Legion. Serving pancakes, through new experiences; develop leadership and decisionsausages, juice and coffee. Cost $5 per person. making skills; give service to the community; value the natural Trivia/Quiz Night environment.

Trivia/Quiz Night, Steinbach – On Saturday, March 12 at 7 pm sharp join us at Steinbach United Church. Snacks and refreshments served but you can bring snacks and/or nonalcoholic drinks for your table, There will be a silent auction.

Cost $10 per person. Register before March 2 contact 204346-5466 or 204-326-3908.

March 2016

By Marianne Curtis A grade 10 student from Niverville Collegiate has become the second local

Green Drinks South Eastman - South Eastman Transition Initiative presents Green Drinks South Eastman. On the 3rd Tri-Star Athlete of the Week from the Tuesday of every month at 7 pm at Lecoka, 8B - Brandt Street. southeast to be declared during the 2015Drop in and discuss sustainable living. Contact 2016 school year. rebecca_hiebert@yahoo.com.

On February 3, the Manitoba High

School Athletic Association announced

The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon that Keegan Beer of the Niverville Steinbach & Area Garden Club Meeting - On Monday, March except when Monday falls on a long weekend at the Chicken Panthers Basketball team was named 14, 7 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village. Lori Ann Regnier Chef, 365 Main Street, visitors are welcome. Contact Cornie at Tire Recycle Rural High School Athlete of Blue Lagoon Organics is passionate about growing nutritious 326-3155. of the Week. food for people who care about what they eat and will explain Beer, a 5’11” guard, was recognized how to grow Abundant and Nutritious Vegetables - Organically. Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for family Blue Lagoon Organics is a certified organic farm growing and friends of people with mental health issues are held the after being part of the reason that the vegetables, herbs and fruit for fresh seasonal family eating 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden East Niverville Panthers have been undefeated and the local market. All are welcome. Non-members $5. building, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email this season.

Refreshments. Door prizes. Contact sagardenclub.com. eastmanmss@mts.net Spring Book Faire – The Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary fundraiser on Wednesday March 16 – Saturday, March 19 at Clearspring Centre from 9 am – 9 pm Wednesday – Friday and 9 am – 4 pm on Saturday. A large assortment of good used books will be available. Contact Ruth at 204-326-2911.

Spring Break Out Camps – On Monday, March 28 - Friday, April 1, from 9 am – 4 pm. A fun and creative camp for ages 5 - 8 and 9 – 12. Music, Drama, Dance, Crafts, Sports and a Community Scavenger Hunt. SAC members $120, non-members Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) – Volunteer opportunities. Diabetes Educational Resource Centre – On 2nd Thursday of $135. Limited Spaces If you go for walks, bike rides, jogs or even just drive around the month from 1:30 - 3:30 pm at the DeSalaberry District Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre, 304 Second Street. Contact 204-346-1077. the community, please put on a COPP vest and show your Health Centre. Contact 204-346-6254. support or help with administrative duties. Can you donate an

MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living with multiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursday evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Place apartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca.

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

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support groups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress,

The Niverville Panthers scored themselves the win at the Ste. Anne, Steinbach Christian, and Niverville basketball tournaments and have started league play at 4-0. Beer averaged thirty plus points a game so far this season and was named MVP at the Niverville tournament.

Panthers coach Graham Beer said, “Keegan works very hard and puts in a lot of extra time to improve his skills.

He demonstrates a true love for the game of basketball by trying to improve himself and his teammates.”

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Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2016

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Providence Students Named Provincial MVPs Providence student-athletes Amber Harms and Romeo KC have been named Most Valuable Players of the Manitoba Colleges Athletic Conference basketball leagues.

Harms, who is in her second year at Providence, came third in scoring during the MCAC regular season and also finished atop the total rebounds chart. In addition, her field goal percentage was fourth-best in the province.

KC garnered the men’s award after coming fifth in MCAC scoring, posting a province-leading 95 per cent efficiency rating from the free throw line, and topping the productivity table. A third-year student out of Falls Church, Virginia, he is joined on the MCAC honour roll by All Conference Team member Daniel Dekleva.

10 Chrysler Gate, Steinbach 204-320-4600 programs@patporteralc.com Pat Porter Active Living Centre offers programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for older adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come and pay us a visit and consider participating in some of our programs. For more Romeo KC information call the Centre at 204-320-4600.

MARCH POTLUCK is on Wednesday, March 9th. If you know that you would like to attend please call ahead and let us know what you would like to bring. Call 204-320-4600. As always needed are: salads, casseroles, desserts large enough to share. Cost is $6.00.

DIABETES WORKSHOP Thursday, March 17th from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm This workshop is open to the public. In this presentation you will learn the myths and facts of Diabetes. This workshop is for people with Type 2 Diabetes. It teaches the skills needed for day-to-day management of Diabetes, and related symptoms, so that individuals can bet-ter “Live a Healthy Life” with diabetes and other chronic health conditions There is no cost for this workshop, but please call to register before Monday, March 14th.

WEEKLY PROGRAMS Monday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Pickleball 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm Model Trains 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Pickleball 1:00 pm Canasta 7:00 pm Tai Chi Tuesday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Pickleball 9:30 am – 3:00 pm Circle of friends 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm Floor Shuffle 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm Family Search Wednesday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Computer classes – call to register please

10:00 am – 11:30 am Tai Chi 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Cribbage 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm Old Time Band Practice Thursday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Pickleball 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Whist 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Pickleball Friday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Pickleball 9:30 pm – 3:00 pm Circle of friends 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Pickleball 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool MONTHLY PROGRAMS Foot Care – The first Tuesday and Wednesday and third Tuesday of the month from 9:00- 2:00 pm. Run by a Professional Foot Care Nurse. Cost $30.00. Call us to book an appointment.

Computer Lab – Need help with your computer skills? Call the centre and make an appointment. Labs are 1 hour long and available every Wednesday morning from 9:00 am – Noon. Please call the centre at: 204-320-4600.

Beltone Hearing – is the third Friday of each month. Please call 1-800-6612653 for an appointment.

Noon meals are available Monday through Friday cost $6.00 Call 320-4605 by 9:00 am to reserve your meal for that day. 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!

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

Membership at Pat Porter Active Living Centre is only $25 per year.

Memberships are due in January of each year. 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.

For more information on our programs, activities or volunteer opportunities, drop by the Centre between Monday and Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm OR call 320-4600 or visit www.patporteralc.com.

Amber Harms

Falk Announces Act to Encourage More Giving

By Marianne Curtis On February 26, Ted Falk, Member of Parliament for Provencher shared details of his Private Members Bill – The Fairness in Charitable Gifts Act. According to Falk, the new act would give federal tax credits for political contributions far exceed the federal tax credits for donations to registered charities in Canada.

“The Fairness in Charitable Gifts Act will level the playing field between donations to political parties and donations to registered charitable organizations,” said MP Falk. “Feeding politicians should never be more important than feeding the hungry.”

“With this bill, charitable organizations will be empowered to take on a greater role as a result of the additional donations generated from the new tax incentives,” Falk explained further. “This bill is expected to encourage donations from the largest segments of the population, those who currently donate under $400 per year as well as those who currently do not donate at all.”

According to Statistics Canada (2010), 10 percent of donors account for 63 percent of all charitable donations in Canada. The number of Canadians donating to charities has been on a long-term decline across the country. The percentage of claimed donations in 2013 fell to 21.87% from its high of 29.5% in 1990.

While the median dollar donation across the country has generally averaged between $250 and $350 per person, residents of Steinbach were the most generous among larger communities in a 2009 study with a median donation of $1,830.

“I am very proud to represent a

Provencher MP Ted Falk announces a new Private Members Bill – The Fairness in Charitable Gifts Act.

riding that is so well known for its generosity,” Falk added. “Our area is a leader in charitable giving and it just makes sense that this bill should be launched from right here in Provencher.”

Among smaller centres in

Provencher, towns such as Blumenort, Kleefeld and Landmark led the way. The median donation for residents of Blumenort was $2,420. Kleefeld came in second in this region at $1,740 dollars, followed

by Landmark at $1,680.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

March 2016

23

New Business Focuses on Blood to Improve Health “A drop of blood can determine what is currently going on in your body; it can also tell you what has happened to your body.”

By Marianne Curtis It is hard to believe that a simple blood sample can map out ones past and future, but Trudi Graham, owner of U Wellness and Antiaging in Steinbach can show you a new way of doing medicine.

“A drop of blood can determine what is currently going on in your body; it can also tell you what has happened to your body,” explained Graham. “This is a great option for chronic issues where going to the doctor is not helping and one is not getting; or someone who is just curious to know what is going on in their body.”

Live blood work involves magnifying a single living drop of blood, taken from a fingertip prick, to 1,000 times or more under a microscope.

Nutritional Indicators Live blood analysis can reveal distortion of red blood cells, which reflect nutrition status, especially low levels of iron, protein, vitamin B12, folic acid and fatty acids.

Incomplete or delayed digestion of fats and proteins can also be observed. In addition, liver stress and undesirable bacterial and fungal by-products may be revealed.

Although diseases cannot

Trudi Graham, owner of U Wellness and Antiaging in Steinbach examines a sample of blood to determine what a client requires to reach optimum health and wellness.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

actually be seen under a microscope, live blood analysis allows altered “blood ecology” patterns to be observed. These patterns allow disease imbalances to occur over time and the idea is to modify and improve suboptimal patterns before serious trouble such as disease arises. “I want to

A Local Hero on Ice

Elie Chappellaz, snow sculptor and David Sutherland, sign maker, teamed up to create this tribute to hometown hero Kristen MacCuish who is representing Manitoba in the Scotties.

be clear; I do not provide a diagnosis. What I do provide is recommendations on how they can improve the terrain, which is where your blood lives,” Graham stressed. “This is perfect for someone who is serious about changing their wellness.”

Graham also offers PEMF sessions, which is a brainwave entrainment system used to treat

depression and mental illness by emitting a low electric field similar to what is naturally needed to be healthy.

A third service offered at the clinic is Smart Pulse Cardiovascular Health Screening, which checks the elasticity of the vessels in your body, which can indicate if one is susceptible to a heart attack.

In Canada, live blood and darkfield microscopy are gaining in popularity but it is not covered by provincial health insurance. The cost of the analysis ranges from $60 to $200.

To schedule a Live Cell Microscopy and Nutritional analysis provided by Graham call 204-326-4701 or text 204-381-1588.

Service is by appointment only.

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March 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

The South East Artists Exhibit Opens

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Calling All Artists… of All Ages!

Display your talent and creativity! Apply for South East Open Judged Art Exhibit.

Application Deadline is Thursday March 10.

Applications are available online at steinbachartscouncil.ca or call 204-346-1077.

Local Artists gather to celebrate their new exhibits at the opening of the South East Artists Exhibit at The Steinbach Arts Council’s Hall Gallery.

Spring Break Out! Camps 2016 Explore a week filled with Dance, Music, Drama, Visual Arts, Recreation, Community and More! Don’t Miss the Adrenaline Rush… Get Your Spot! 5 days… Monday, March 28 to Friday, April 1. Call SAC at 204-346-1077 to find out more.