Dawson Trail Dispatch October 2016

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

October 2016

Ile des Chenes Students Beautify Town

By Marianne Curtis

40+ grade 7 and 8 students from Ecole Ile des Chenes School gathered together to beautify the town by planting 285 trees at the local community centre.

Inset: Ile des Chenes School students Deegan McGarry and Devon Watt work together to get the trees planted around the TransCanada Centre in Ile des Chenes.

Over forty grade 7 and 8 students from Ecole Ile des Chenes School gathered together to beautify the town by spending a day planting 285 trees at the local community centre.

On September 20, students from Tony Masi’s Gade 7, 8 English, Chantale Lecocq’s Grade 7, and 8 Immersion classes from Ecole Ile des Chenes School gathered at the TransCanada Centre for one morning to plant trees. “We were approached

by Wildlife Haven to help plant over 250 bushes and trees that were going to be planted just north the Ile des Chenes Arena and Trans-Canada Centre,” explained Masi. “We had around 40 students, aged 11-13, who participated in the project.”

According to Roger Perron, the TransCanada Centre took the initiative to plant the trees with support from the RM of Ritchot and Hometown Manitoba, Tree Planting program. All holes for the tree were dug in advance a few days before and trees were delivered before the planting along with the topsoil and mulch.

“This space is very open and there is no protection from wind or snow. The 110 children daycare that rents space in the TransCanada Centre often utilizes this green space for their activities,” explained Perron. “These trees will provide some protection from the elements and in due course shade. These trees will also act as a snow fence on the north side of the TransCanada Centre and IDC Arena.”

Perron said the real highlight was how enthused the students were in helping out with the project.

“They were happy to be out of school, we had a great sunny day temperature around 20 °C,” Perron noted. “I must say that the girls worked harder than the guys.”

Later this fall, Wildlife Haven hopes to get help from students from Ecole Gabrielle Roy when the time comes to plant trees at their new site, Perron added.

October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Southeast STARS Supporters Go Big to Rescue Fire Chief from Island

By Marianne Curtis

La Broquerie Fire Chief Alain Nadeau raised over $73,000 while stranded for the day on Carter Island near Pinawa as part of a fundraiser for STARS.

By the end of the day, this year’s annual Rescue on the Island event raised a total of $360,000 for the Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service (STARS).

On September 16, eight community and business leaders, including La Broquerie Fire Chief Alain Nadeau were stranded for the day on Carter Island near Pinawa, where they participated in a blend of survival and medical challenges while fundraising for STARS. “We need STARS in rural areas,” said Nadeau. “I’m a local firefighter, and I can go back over the past 37 years and there are lots of calls where if we had STARS we would have saved a lot of lives.”

Nadeau shattered the $50,000 individual fundraising goal by raising $73,969. “I am amazed by the people in the southeast,” said Nadeau. “I was worried that I would only raise about $15,000 and it went really well.”

This was the fourth year for the annual Rescue event, which has raised over $1.1 million since 2013. “This is our largest fundraising event in Manitoba,” said Else Fenton, Executive Director of the STARS Foundation in Manitoba. “As a not-forprofit organization, STARS relies on community support and we appreciate the very generous efforts of our Rescue on the Island participants.”

Participants stepped into the world of the STARS medical crew while on the island, by being presented with a series of medical challenges that brought home the reality of what STARS crew experience during real events. To be rescued, each participant aimed for a goal of $50,000.

STARS responded to 568 emergencies last year in Manitoba, and are set to fly even more missions in 2016. STARS provide specialized emergency medical care and transportation for critically ill and injured patients.

First West Nile Related Death in Three Years Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living has reported that a woman in her 70’s tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) after passing away recently.

The woman, who was an area resident of the Southern Health–Santé-Sud region, had pre-existing health conditions.

It is believed she was exposed to West Nile in region sometime in mid-August. No additional information about this individual will be released to protect her personal health information and to ensure that the family’s privacy is protected.

Human cases of WNV were first reported in Manitoba in 2003. This is the first death reported since September 2013, and the ninth death since the province began collecting this information.

Last month, a forty-year-old man from the Southern Health – Santé Sud region was the first human to test positive for West Nile in Manitoba for this year. The patient reportedly sought medical treatment after experiencing neurological symptoms and was hospitalized.

He is believed to have been exposed during the week of July 17.

Richer Named “Rodeo the Year”

By Marianne Curtis For the third time in four years, the Richer Roughstock Rodeo has claimed the Heartland Rodeo Association’s title of “Rodeo of the Year”.

Pat Stolwyk, with the Richer Community Club is thrilled that the Heartland Rodeo Association once again named their event Rodeo of the Year. “We are grateful to everyone who came out and once again made this year’s rodeo a big success,” said Stolwyk after receiving the great news. “We had an amazing group of volunteers who worked tirelessly at turning the Richer Park into a rodeo site. This The hard work of countless community volunteers from Richer Community Club earned a third Rodeo of the Year award for the Richer Rough Stock Rodeo.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

could not have happened without the hard work of the entire community.”

This year’s Richer Rough Stock Rodeo attracted over 200 competitors in bull riding, tie-down roping, team roping, barrel racing, steer wrestling and saddle bronco.

The addition of tons of activities for the entire family, including a trade show with over 100 vendors unique to the area, kids’ activities and live music added to the success of the weekend.

The Richer Rough Stock Rodeo claimed the title in 2013 for their inaugural event and again, in 2014.

The Portage Ex Stampede claimed last year’s award.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Buller Business School Opens in Otterburne On September 20, Providence University College and Theological Seminary officially opened the Buller School of Business and unveiled their IMPACT 2020 campaign.

Kelvin Goertzen, Manitoba Minister of Health, Seniors and Active Living, and MLA for Steinbach was on hand for the official opening ceremonies.

“This is a very important occasion because [the Buller School of Business] will give students from the southeast and beyond the opportunity to study Business in a unique environment,” said Goertzen. “My hope is that as students go through this university program that they’ll always remember that there’s another lens to look at Business through.

There’s another way to use the successes and gifts God has given, and that is to help others.”

Named after Kitchen Craft and Norcraft co-founders Herb and Erna Buller, the Buller School of Business is home to the facility’s Bachelor of Business Administration degree program. “We are celebrating the opening of the Buller School of Business, with outstanding learn-

ing facilities, state-of-the-art classrooms and the latest technologies,” said Herb Buller at the opening.

“Erna and I believe we need young people with strong, vibrant faith in the secular marketplaces around the world, some of them entrepreneurs, some of them business professionals, some of them in the non-profit sector.”

The new facility covers 7,000 square feet, includes 2 classrooms, 2 networked seminar rooms, 24 laboratory workstations, and 4 faculty offices, as well as a 3,500 square foot exterior courtyard.

The Buller School of Business was constructed thanks to the largest fundraising campaign in Providence history. IMPACT 2020 resulted in 70% of the $12.5 million budget raised for the project through cash and pledges.

Now that the facility is complete, the focus of Providences’ fundraising campaign over the next four years will encompass the Providence Fund, Campus Enhancements, Program Enhancements, Endowed Scholarships and Employee Development.

Providence students burst through a temporary barricade concealing a just-finished, landscaped courtyard, ceremonially revealing the institution’s new facilities.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

La Broquerie Approves Borrowing Funds for Lagoon Expansion The RM of La Broquerie has approved a $2.5 million borrowing bylaw that is expected to cover the costs of the community’s lagoon expansion.

According to Reeve Lewis Weiss, the bylaw covers phase 1 of the project. “The growth in the municipality is affected by the lagoon,” Weiss

explained. “Unfortunately it has to be done and we are forced to get it moving quickly.”

The RM of La Broquerie tendered out the project and it was awarded to Dirt Pro at a cost of $2.65 million.

Construction is expected to begin shortly, with completion slated for late next summer.

October 2016

October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

National Seniors Day October 1 was National Seniors Day when we recognized and celebrated the incredible contributions of our seniors.

As the Member of Parliament for Provencher, I was proud to pay tribute to the seniors who have helped build our country and shape our society. They bring a wealth of knowledge ready to be passed down to the next generation and are often key leaders and volunteers in their communities.

In Ottawa, Canadian seniors groups have made it very clear to Parliamentarians that they would like to see the government develop a comprehensive National Seniors Strategy to deal with the ever-growing challenges that seniors face. Issues such as establishing a national strategy for Alzheimer’s disease, ensuring palliative care is available to Canadians that need it, and ensuring that quality homecare and affordable housing are available – to name just a few.

Everyone has someone in their life who is either approaching retirement or is currently retired, so the issues that are important to Canada’s seniors are important to all of us.

However, in the first 10 months of his mandate, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has ignored the

growing needs of seniors. Right now, seniors are Canada’s fastest growing demographic with one in six Canadians over 65 years of age. Within thirteen years, that number will be one in four.

The current Prime Minister has the portfolio of Minister for Youth, and there is a Minister for Families, so this begs the question: shouldn’t Canada’s fastest growing demographic have their own voice in government as well?

I think they should.

Our Conservative Party, led by Mark Warawa, the Official Opposition Critic for Seniors, will continue to work hard on the many important issues affecting Canadian seniors.

For more information on this or other issues, please feel free to contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204-3269889. You may also write my office at 76 PTH 12 N, Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4, e-mail me at ted. falk.c1@parl.gc.ca or visit my website at tedfalk.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Can Democracy Be Improved?

The minister in charge of improving our democracy is now crisscrossing Canada looking for input. We know change is coming. The trick will be to choose well. A referendum on the outcome will only work if we have a choice of two.

The short answer of “can democracy be improved” is yes. But in reality, there are many pitfalls. It’s good that the Prime Minister is also calling for a fairer Parliament for all MPs including backbenchers and opposition, but as always, the proof is dependent on everybody playing grown up as opposed to dress up.

The method of choosing our MPs is another story with many different possibilities. First-Past- the-Post (FPTP) method which we have had since forever but does produce stunning majorities with sometimes less that 40% of the population voting for the supposing winning team. This now distorts majorities ever since we have had more than two parties vying for our endorsement.

With so many parties and different approaches and ideas, the vast majority of MPs get elected with less than an absolute majority of votes. There are two reasons why I can still live with this method. First, this way we get to choose our MP directly and thereafter the winning party generally gets a poll bounce shortly after an election and gets an approval of a majority of the voting public.

The second most talked about method is Proportional Representation (PR). This method has MPs elected as a mixture of some directly elected members and the remainder assigned by different parties in proportion to the percentage of votes receive by each party. To my way of thinking this is being governed by a party of an appointed list which of course is going to be party hacks and very similar to Senate appointees of the previous bad old days.

So, on this method I give it a resounding no! I think it’s imperative that we have the ability to vote for our representative. Somebody appointed is an outcome too doctorial and self serving. We deserve a government of our choosing.

The next method is Ranking your ballet by choice as one, two or three depending on how many people run in your riding or you get to vote twice if the first ballot does not produce a winner with 50% plus one vote. This would give us, if not our first choice but our second choice, or at least a compromise in any given riding of somebody we know. I also think it would be easier to elect quality independents this way.

Political parties are a necessary part of democracy but quality independent thinking has done more to advance the game, as we know it than the PM’s Office has ever done.

Other people may opt for hybrids of the above but I would venture to add that we need to elect directly. Nor do we need a bloated amount of MPs either. Responsive quality is the operative word not quantity. I would also point out that any change from FPTP will probably produce many minority governments. Not that this is necessarily bad, but at times less than effective.

It may also produce more parties. What would the consequences be? Look at Europe and decide for yourself.

BiPole III Moves Forward

In a recently released document, the newly appointed Manitoba Hydro-Electric Board says it is left with no choice but to move forward with Bipole III. In May, a review of the project was conducted at the request of the province. The review further confirmed that rerouting the line down the east side of Lake Winnipeg is no longer an option. It also determined that any delay or cancellation of Bipole III would make it impossible to carry the power from the Keeyask Generating Station that is required to deliver upon committed export contracts. In total, a cancellation of Bipole III at this late stage of construction would result in a cost to Manitoba ratepayers of over $7 billion.

Board Chair Sanford Riley confirmed that the review showed 95

% of the contracts for the construction of Bipole III are in place, with $2.9 billion of project funding having been committed or expended to date.

“However, it is also clear that Bipole III is essential to reducing the significant risk of blackouts and service disruptions should there be a failure of the existing Bipole I and Bipole II transmission lines which currently carry over 70 per cent of the electricity produced in the province,” stated Riley.

“Rerouting the Bipole III transmission line down the west side of the province was obviously a wrong decision; one forced on Hydro by the previous government, and has cost Manitobans an additional $900 million. However, the review concluded that if construction is not completed, Keeyask’s export contracts will not be filled, making the new generating

station an asset incapable of generating revenues for many years. The Board has been left with no choice but to move forward,” Riley added.

Riley noted a number of additional challenges identified in the review.

Neither Bipole III nor Keeyask are on track to meet their target completion dates, with Manitoba Hydro is now projecting delays of between 12 and 15 months for Bipole III and between 21 and 31 months for Keeyask.

The cost for Bipole III is also expected to rise from the current budget of $4.65 billion to between $4.9 and $5 billion, whereas Keeyask is expected to rise from the current budget of $6.5 billion to between $7.2 and $7.8 billion. Manitoba Hydro’s debt is also expected to grow from its current level of $13 billion to $25 billion within the next three to four years.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Review of Hydro Capital Projects On September 21, a review conducted by the Manitoba HydroElectric Board with the independent analysis of Boston Consulting Group, an industry expert, found the utility is under serious financial pressure.

The review found the previous provincial government pushed ahead with capital spending on the Bipole III transmission line and the Keeyask Generating Station simultaneously to provide energy for export customers, even without a domestic demand for new generation.

This review does not come lightly, as the previous government’s mismanagement of Manitoba Hydro has put the Crown utility’s projected debt to nearly double at $25 billion within the next three or four years.

It also estimates the capital project costs will increase, for Bipole III to at least $4.9 billion from the current $4.65 billion, and for Keeyask to between $7.2 billion and $7.8 billion from the current $6.5 billion.

This past July, S&P Global Rating downgraded the province’s credit rating and pointed to Manitoba Hydro as no longer self-supporting.

This puts Manitoba at risk of further credit downgrades. The Hydro board’s review, as well, indicates the utility’s financial state is directly tied to the financial health of the province.

For years, while in opposition, many members of our new government fought tirelessly, and on behalf of residents of the Dawson Trail constituency, for better transparency and for sound planning of our capital investments. They also called for the previous government to respect Manitoba Hydro’s initial recommendation for a shorter and more cost-effective Bipole III route east of Lake Winnipeg.

It is clear the previous government accelerated these projects to the point of no return. The board says

moving the line is no longer viable, while Bipole III is needed to fulfill Hydro’s export contracts that hinge on the completion of Keeyask. To stall Bipole III would result in even more cost increases.

Our new government is committed to strategic investment, accountability and value, even more so after the previous government’s mismanagement of these major Manitoba Hydro projects.

Budget consultations The Government of Manitoba has now opened public budget consultations for all Manitobans to provide input on fixing our finances, repairing our services and rebuilding our economy. To learn more about the upcoming 2017 Budget, or to submit your ideas, attend a consultation or even try your hand at building the budget, visit yourprovinceyourplan. ca.

In the community It is a privilege to represent such an active and community-minded constituency. The past summer’s parades and the fall suppers across the area truly show how neighbourly we are in Dawson Trail, and what can be accomplished as a team, no matter how big or small.

As a community, we also talk about the many things we would like to see happen. There’s no better way to have these discussions than by attending one of the many casual coffees around Dawson Trail.

To learn more about locations and dates, please call my office at 204807-4663 or connect through Facebook.

than the rest. “That way they are still not making payments twenty years from now,” said Duval.

The RM of Ritchot is expected to give the borrowing bylaw first reading on October 4. Under the Municipal Act, the proposal will have to go to the Municipal Board before final approval. If objections are received at that point, the matter would go to a public hearing and the board would decide if a borrowing bylaw is feasible.

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

Auditor General Reports Itemizes Lack of NDP Accountability October is here, and it brings with it all the beautiful colours of fall. Summer vacations are over, students are back in school and Manitobans are back at work.

We’ve resumed sitting at the Manitoba Legislature. The date we resumed the legislative session was October 3, but our new Progressive Conservative government had been working all summer to make Manitoba the most improved province in Canada by the end of our first term.

Our new Manitoba government is continuing to fix the province’s finances following the previous NDP administration’s waste and mismanagement. One such example of that waste is outlined in a report released recently by the Office of the Auditor General.

The East Side Road Authority (ESRA), as described by the auditor general in the report, lacked accountability and oversight, and failed to monitor or measure the results of millions of expended tax dollars after it was created by

the previous government. The report also found ESRA had no measures in place for financial or construction management roles and no measurable objectives for its Aboriginal Engagement Strategy. As well, the auditor general discovered ESRA did not keep track of allowances paid to community corporations and did not measure how these corporations benefited from them. ESRA also did not track whether people who were trained for the project later found employment with it.

Our government is moving the province toward a commitment to value for money in the public interest. We are taking steps to fix Manitoba’s finances and are putting the province on a course that reflects Manitobans’ priorities.

On a lighter note, our Minister of Health, Seniors and Active Living has proclaimed October as Seniors’ and Elders’ Month in Manitoba.

Our seniors have played an important role in the development of our province and communities.

They have mentored us with their

leadership, knowledge and experience. We all know a senior who has given back to their community in order to make it a better place for us.

Many Manitoba communities will hold events that highlight and recognize our seniors during the month of October. I encourage all to attend one of these events or to go out and visit some of the seniors who have played roles in your lives.

As always, I look forward to hearing from you with your questions or concerns. I can be reached at my constituency office at 204424-5406, my legislative office at 204-945-4339 or by email at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca.

Oakbank RCMP Request Assistance in Identifying Robbery Suspects

On September 6 at approximately 2 am, a commercial property on Provincial Road 302 in the RM of Springfield was broken into by two male suspects. The same property has been the victim of several high value robberies in recent weeks and months and it is believed that the same suspects are responsible.

During the latest break and enter, electronics, tools and an undisclosed amount of cash were stolen.

RCMP are requesting public assistance in identifying the two suspects.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Oakbank RCMP at 204-444-3847 or call Manitoba Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, submit a secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).

Ste. Agathe Fire Hall Could Cost Over Two Million At a recent public hearing, the RM of Ritchot discussed the need to borrow $2.5 million to establish a new fire hall in Ste. Agathe.

According to Mitch Duval, CAO for the RM of Ritchot, the municipality will need to borrow money to construct a new hall, purchase a fire truck, along with all the equipment and training for the new firefighters.

Duval explained that Council could go at the project in two ways. It has been suggested that the municipality borrow $1.5 million and take the remainder from reserves. He said that he could also put together two proposals, one for the fire hall and a second for the truck, especially since the truck would be paid off quicker

October 2016

the municipality was 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 for the actual building alone.

Level 1 fire training of the almost two dozen volunteer firefighters for the Ste. Agathe hall has already started.

October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Crow Wing Trail Gets Test Ride

By Marianne Curtis On September 16, a unique trail ride took place along the Crow Wing Trail. The weekend trail ride was considered a test run of what could become a tour package through the region in the near future.

According to Murielle Bugera, Crow Wing Trail Association President, the test ride was a success. “During the three-day trek, the group travelled as they did in the frontier days, with horse drawn wagons and sleep under the stars,” explained Bugera. “The goal is to develop a unique tourist attraction on this trail that was of great importance in the 1800s.”

Eighteen people, mostly from the tourism sector, took part in the 3-day excursion, which was organized by the Economic Development Council for Manitoba Bilingual Municipalities (CDEM). The goal of the tour was to work out the logistics of of-

fering such a tour while making the experience as authentic as possible.

The Métis journey on the Crow Wing could become a regular tourist activity if there is enough demand for this unforgettable experience along the Trans Canada Trail.

The Crow Wing Trail is a historic 192-kilometre route stretching from the southern border of Winnipeg to Emerson. The trail was initially established in the 1800s as a route to transport goods to and from the Red River Settlement on the Red River and the Crow Wing Settlement on the Mississippi River. Today the trail has been revived as a recreational trail that closely follows the original Red River cart, trading route between Winnipeg and St. Paul, Minnesota.

The Métis Journey on the Crow Wing tour would provide participants an opportunity to experience what life was like for settlers and traders when the trail first opened.

Colourful Display Opens AntiAbortion and Pro-Choice Debate

Provencher MP Ted Falk takes in the sea of pink and blue flags planted throughout AD Penner Park that according to WeNeedaLAW symbolizes the number of abortions in Canada each year.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis

Members of the Crow Wing Trail Association, along with participants of the tourism industry take on a three-day trail ride to work out the logistics of offering a wagon tour along the historical trade route.

Photo courtesy of CDEM

Dawson Trail Dispatch

In the early morning of October 1, over 200 volunteers of all ages gathered in AD Penner Park, in Steinbach where they worked together to plant 100,000 bright pink and blue flags into the grass.

Mike Schouten, director for WeNeedaLAW.ca, helped organize the Steinbach event. “The 100,000 small pink and blue flags represent the approximately 100,000 human lives ended by abortion every year in Canada. Every flag is a testament to a little girl or boy who was denied a welcome into our nation,” said Schouten.

According to the mission of WeNeedaLAW, the organization is building and mobilizing a movement of Canadians for the purpose of passing anti-abortion laws in order to protect children before birth. “Canada affords no legal protection for pre-born children, at any stage of pregnancy.

This means that pre-born girls are targeted for abortion simply because they are female,” Schouten continued.

“We are in the company of no other country when it comes to protecting human rights for the

smallest members of the human family. Provincial and Federal governments need to act quickly in passing legislation that puts us closer into line with every other democracy in the world,” concluded Schouten.

Provencher MP Ted Falk attended the event and helped plant flags.

“For the past few years, this display has been set up in Ottawa, this is the first time it has been done locally,” Falk confirmed. “This was a sobering view of how much we need a law in Canada that protects the unborn child.”

In 1988, the Supreme Court of Canada decided in a majority ruling that section 251 of the Criminal Code, “Violates two rights, liberty and security of person.” As, part of the Court’s decision, Chief Justice, Brian Dickson said the law is found to violate section 7 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. “Forcing a woman, by threat of criminal sanction to carry a foetus to term unless she meets certain criteria unrelated

to her own priorities and aspirations, is a profound interference with a woman’s body and thus a violation of her security of the person,” stated Dickson.

Supreme Court Judge Bertha Wrenham Wilson emphasized how section 251 of the Criminal Code, “Violated a woman’s personal autonomy by preventing her from making decisions affecting her and her fetus’ life.” The Justice’s onion also stated that the law violated section 2(a) of the Charter, freedom of conscience. Wilson went on to say, “By removing the women’s ability to make the decision and giving it to a committee would be a clear violation of their liberty and security of person. Wilson noted that the state is effectively taking control of a woman’s capacity to reproduce.

The Canadian abortion law remains within the Criminal Code under section 287, “Abortion-Procuring Miscarriage” of a female person.

Canine Unit Recovers Lost Child On Sunday September 9 at approximately 2:50 pm, Steinbach RCMP was dispatched to a call of a lost four year old in the RM of La Broquerie. The child had followed their pet dog into the bush and could not be located.

Police arrived on scene at approximately 3 pm and determined that the child had been missing for about 45 minutes.

As there was heavy bush located all around the property,

Cst. Henderson and police dog Enzo were called in to assist. Within 20 minutes from the time they started their search for the lost child, they located her without injuries about a half a mile away from the residence.

She was seen by EMS as a precaution.

Steinbach RCMP indicates that due to the quick work by Cst. Henderson and Enzo, this high-risk situation had a very fast and successful conclusion.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

October 2016

Fundraiser Raises Money to Support Fire Department

By Marianne Curtis About three hundred people, including 83 children, converged on KidZone in Steinbach on October 1, in support of the Steinbach Fire Department. While the final numbers from the event, which included a silent auction, are not entirely totaled, the event raised about $3,500.

The event was organized by the administrators of WowSteinbach, a local Facebook group and KidZone Steinbach, who banned together to make the event a success. The event, not only supported the Steinbach Fire Department it also helped Cancer Care after a similar fundraiser was subjected to a brazen theft.

In August, a music fundraiser took place at Coyote Creek, where over three hundred people attended the event, and raised money for fire prevention, Cancer Care in Steinbach and a local firefighter who is battling cancer. Thousands of dollars were raised at the event, and at the end of the night, it was discovered that all the money had been stolen.

The Steinbach RCMP is still investigating the theft.

The daring theft stunned and outraged the local community, and the idea to host the fundraiser came from Dave Redl, founder of WowSteinbach, a Facebook group with over 4,200 members. “I used to be a firefighter in my home town so when I heard the news of the theft at the last fundraiser they had it hit me hard and I felt the urge to go out and

do something about it,” Redl explained. Within days, a partnership was formed with Eddy Noll, owner of KidZone in Steinbach and the rest is history. “Originally I wanted to take up donations on WowSteinbach and I approached Eddy to see if I could use his location as a drop off spot,” Redl explained.

“I’ve been thinking for a few weeks about what to do with our first anniversary on October 1... when I had seen Dave’s comments about wanting to collect money for the fire Fighters... One thing led to another and here we are he day after,” Noll added.

To raise money, KidZone charged every child $5 to use the facility, with the entire fee going to the fire department. The Steinbach Fire Department joined the fun by bringing out several of their trucks and offered tours to the children, while the Steinbach RCMP offered patrol rides to the children as well.

“I want to thank all our sponsors and everyone who donated. Without them this would not have been easy to pull off,” Redl added. “But most of all I want to thank our firefighters for the bravery they show every time they put on their bunk gear.”

KidZone is located along Highway #12, north of Steinbach. It consists of around 4,000 square feet with a big play structure, bouncy castle, Toddler area, Fußball table, air hockey table and arcade basketball.

It is open to the public and has party rooms available for bookings.

Helping Families Experience Hockey at Its Best with The First Shift Steinbach Minor Hockey is proud to host The First Shift event in partnership with Bauer Hockey and Hockey Canada starting in October.

If you know of a young person between the ages of 6 and 10 that has never, played our great game of hockey and might be interested in trying the sport then let them know about The First Shift. The program is designed to help kids fall in love with hockey before parents buy all the gear. This 6-week learn-to-play program focuses on having fun while learning basic skills.

The mission of The First Shift is to change the way hockey is offered by inspiring new families to join our community and enrol their kids in our sport, as we create positive conversation and exposure for our great game.

As a leader in hockey, Bauer feels a collective responsibility to protect, advance and grow the game. Bauer Hockey and Hockey Canada have committed to a multi-year strategy

to grow the game by increasing participation. As a hockey community, we are already familiar with the benefits of our great game. The First Shift is an opportunity to introduce these benefits to new families and together make a meaningful impact on the lives of kids, their families and communities. The First Shift breaks down barriers to entry by making hockey affordable, manageable time commitment, safe and fun.

All equipment is included with the $199 registration fee. The program begins with a welcome evening on October 7 for participants to learn about the weeks ahead and get geared up with new Bauer hockey equipment that fits.

No second hand sizes here.

Dave Redl, WowSteinbach administrator (right) and Eddy Noll from Kidzone (left) with Asstistant Chief Russ Reimer, Fire Chief Kelvin Toews, Lieutenant Cindi Klassen-Krahn, Captain Trevor Schellenberg with the Steinbach Fire Department.

October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Flu Season is Fast Approaching FLU SHOTS AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL SOUTHEASTERN PHARMACISTS:

With cold weather right around the corner, influenza (the flu) season is almost here. The flu is a respiratory infection caused by viruses that infect your nose, throat and lungs, and can be spread to others around you, especially when you cough or sneeze. If you have these symptoms, they’ll usually appear suddenly and can include a fever, sore throat, muscle aches, joint pain and exhaustion. You can protect yourself and others from getting the flu by covering your coughs or sneezes, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, as well as washing your hands regularly with soap and water. The best protection possible from the flu is by getting the influenza vaccine every year, as the virus changes from year to year.

As the Minister of Health, I helped launch the flu vaccine drive by getting my flu shot on September 30 at the Steinbach Shopper’s Drug Mart as pharmacists can administer it. The vaccine is free for all Manitobans six months of age and older and healthy children between 2 and 17 years of age have the option of getting a needle-free vaccine called FluMist© Quadrivalent. Thousands of Manitobans get the influenza vaccine every year and since the vaccine takes about two weeks to be effective, it’s best to get vaccinated as early as you can. This year, as is the case every year, Health Canada approves all vaccines based on a review for quality and safety.

Manitobans over the age of 65

should also get a pneumococcal vaccine at the same time as the seasonal flu vaccine. Both the flu and pneumococcal vaccine are offered at no charge for people aged 65 and older. The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against pneumococcal disease, including a serious type of pneumonia, blood infections and meningitis. Most adults only need one pneumococcal vaccine in their lifetime.

To get your flu vaccine, visit your local public health office, nursing station, doctor’s office, and pharmacy, QuickCare Clinic or ACCESS Centre. Your local pharmacist can also provide immunization services to people 7 years of age and older.

For more information on influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, talk to your health care provider, or call Health Links-Info Santé at 204788-8200 (in Winnipeg) or toll free 1-888-315-9257 (outside of Winnipeg). You’ll also find resources to help you better understand influenza on Manitoba’s Seasonal Influenza website at manitoba.ca/health/flu.

I appreciate your comments and concerns. If you have any comments on these or other issues, you can contact me by writing, #3 – 227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, by phone at 204-326-5763, by fax at 204-346-9913, by e-mail at kelvin@kelvingoertzen.com or by visiting my website at kelvingoertzen.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

October 2016

Terror on 12 Continues to Thrill

By Marianne Curtis There are only eight nights in October that one can experience the most frightening, yet entertaining evening in southern Manitoba.

For a limited time only, Terror on 12 promises to leave you trembling with fear in your boots.

Christine Gislason, owner of Terror on 12 and Moonlight Masquerade and Costume Shop, says several hundred people a night come through the attraction which started as a Halloween Masquerade party.

“We used to have masquerade balls here, and it just grew from there,” explained Gislason. “Now we work our fingers to the bone over six months for eight nights of fun but the screams make it worth it.

We live for the screams!”

Terror on 12 is a ten acre haunted estate located south of Anola. The site is full of brush, trees, haunted houses, a haunted western town and many scary surprises along the way which under the cover of darkness can frighten the bravest of souls.

With a cast of sixty volunteers determined to make you scream in terror each trip through the haunted estate provides guests with about fifty minutes of ghoulish fun.

“We’ve had people who have never been scared before scream or fall over,” added Michelle Cherak, who

has volunteered at the haunted estate since it opened. “We have people who come every year and they say wow that was different than before.

We always change things.”

At the end of the forest visitors can kick back and share fearsome tales around a bonfire while enjoying a snack from one of the food trucks on site.

Terror on 12 officially opens for the season for three consecutive weekends, starting October 14 and 15. People who come out that weekend will receive a $2 ticket discount for bringing in a “Tin for the Bin” towards the Springfield Food Bank.

It will then be open October 21-22 and 28-30. It is not recommended for young children.

If enjoying the fall weather, without fear, is more your style, there are several family friendly options available in the region as well.

In St. Adolphe, A Maze in Corn now offers an exciting 2 hour Zip Line adventure, with amazing prairie views. Zip along the ravine and race over the cornfield, and don’t forget the maze.

The Blatz Fun Farm and Corn Maze is located west of Steinbach which consists of a 10 acre Corn Maze with a 12 station Scavenger Hunt in the shape of a flowerpot.

There are also ton of other activities available for kids of all ages.

Ste. Agathe Garage Hosts Kelly Williams Car Care Clinic

By Marianne Curtis Over two dozen women spent an evening learning basic car maintenance when Kelly Williams, racecar driver, and Canada’s Worst Driver, hosted one of her Car Care Clinics in Ste. Agathe.

Alain Robert, owner of Ste. Agathe Service hosted the event, which took place on September 26. “I was away for a few days, so I couldn’t take part in the event, but I’m getting very positive feedback from the customers and the instructor,” said Robert. “The women left feeling a little more qualified and comfortable in knowing their vehicle and how best to take care of it.”

Williams is currently traveling across Canada, bringing her Ladies Car Care Clinic to various communities. “It went great! We had twenty-nine people and the ladies

had a great time,” Williams stated in an email. “Alain’s staff and Rachel were really helpful and organized.

Class act.”

The Ladies Car Care Clinic is a fun, informative evening to learn about maintenance and your vehicle. Participants learned what the various fluids look like, how a dirty air filter can impact fuel economy and why it is important to check tire pressures.

Subjects covered during the 2.5hour clinic included learning the various fluids of a vehicle, both clean and dirty. Participants also inspect oil filters that were cut open and the differences between clean and dirty filters. As well, they were able to use their own vehicle as part of the class to check their own oil and tire pressure, and how to pack a good vehicle emergency kit.

In Ste. Agathe, twenty-nine women learned car maintenance basics under the guidance of Kelly Williams, racecar driver and Canada’s Worst Driver judge Kelly Williams.

Be prepared to be frightened while touring the Haunted Estate at Terror on 12.

Photos by Marianne Curtis

Last but not least is Penner Pumpkins and the Scarecrow Forest near Giroux. They offer Zipline, tractor train ride, corn cannon, rubber duck races, pig races, play structures, scarecrow forest path, corn maze, indoor play areas, gem mining, pony rides.

Thief Steals Firearms Steinbach RCMP received a report of a break at a residence on Hwy 302 in Richer that occurred between September 20-21.

The thief broke stole firearms, ammunition, jewellery and other personal belongings.

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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October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

New Bothwell Women Support Northern Neighbours

Capital Gains Dilemma and the Cottage I’ve met with a several clients in the past few months regarding their cottage (or recreational property). There sure are many myths and mixed messages around cottages regarding taxes and what happens when you die.

I will discuss the tax issues surrounding the capital gain and then some estate planning issues if you plan to leave it to your family in your Will.

First, let’s dispel some myths some people have about the cottage and capital gains. More than once I have had, clients believe that as long as they sell their home and move to the cottage for a period, that they will not face any capital gains. They are wrong.

You have a potential capital gain for the period of time you own more than one home. You can only have one principle residence at any one time.

Regardless of which one you sell first.

The misunderstanding may be that if you do sell your home and move to the cottage, you do not have to claim the capital gain at that time.

True, but you do claim the capital gain (for the years you owned two properties) on the cottage when you sell it, gift it or when you die.

Here’s the problem. By not claiming the capital gain when you sell your home, you are implying to Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) that your home is the principle residence and the cottage will have the taxable capital gain and that may be much higher than the capital gain on your home. Either one can be considered your principle residence; the other one you will claim as taxable property.

So when you sell either one, get some tax advice at that time. Better yet, do some calculations now while you still can find and organize all your numbers: what you paid, what capital improvements you have made on each property (and have receipts to prove it) and what both properties are worth now.

I’ve had clients ask me what if they do not “self report” to CRA? The short answer is, “That is called tax evasion!”

That normally gets their attention.

My longer answer is CRA has access to the paper trails (most property transactions are tracked at the Manitoba Titles office) so eventually they will find out you disposed of property and didn’t report it. Then they reassess your taxes (and maybe after you have died and your family has to deal with it). CRA may estimate the capital gain high and leave it to you to prove them wrong. Don’t leave this mess to your children or other family members!

Another myth is if you bestow the cottage upon your children or add them as joint owners, there is no capital gain. Wrong again. CRA considers you to have disposed of the property at “fair market value” if you received nothing or much less than the market value.

The bottom line is the moment you own two properties; you will likely face a capital gain on one of them in the future. The good news is you can pick the one with the lower capital gain, but get professional help!

When it comes to Estate planning, many want to keep the cottage or recreational property in the family. This

Dawson Trail Dispatch

By Marianne Curtis may be difficult.

The best way I have seen to deal with the cottage in the Will is to provide a “right of first refusal”. You can instruct your executor to keep the cottage for 24 months allowing all family members to use it and the estate pays the ongoing operating expenses. Then after two years, have an appraisal done and then one or more combination of beneficiaries has the opportunity to purchase it at the appraised value, and those who do not want to own the cottage will still receive their share of the value of the estate. And if no one wants it or cannot afford it, then it is sold outside the family and the cash is divided.

Don’t leave the cottage to everyone in the Will thinking, “They will get along or work it out.” Believe me that rarely happens. Give a certain time period and then provide the right of first refusal. This reduces hard feelings and keeps everyone friendly.

A new idea came about when talking with a client who has two children and wants to leave the cottage to one child and the home to the other child. After solving the capital gains and tax issues and future cash flow issues when the home is sold to move to a retirement home, we came up with the idea of a credit line with the cottage as collateral to make the “net assets” more equal to the two beneficiaries. This plan would need to be reviewed yearly and explained to the two children now.

There are many ways to deal with the capital gains and the resulting taxes and the Estate planning for the cottage or recreational property. And everyone situation is different so get some professional advice!

Last month I wrote about Service Canada in Ste Anne monthly at the Manitoba Bilingual Service Centre at 30 Dawson Road (next to my office).

I was happy to hear many people took advantage of it and the Citizen Services Specialist was busy. She is back on Thursday October 20 from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm. And the third Thursday of November and December.

Service Canada helps you access programs such as: Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), Employment Insurance (EI), Social Insurance Number (SIN), Apprenticeship Grants, Canada Education Savings Grant and the Canada Learning Bond.

I recommend you visit the office to get on-line access to My Service Canada Account so you can access information about your CPP and OAS. Then you can see how much your CPP is estimated to be when you retire at 60 or 65.

With on-line access, you can also change your address or update your banking information. Changing the address for Service Canada can only be done through My Service Canada Account or via phone (hard to reach someone), so I recommend you get My Service Canada Account set up now.

Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and Certified Financial Planner; living, working, and volunteering in our community.

Contact her at 204-422-6631 or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Coop) or Info@SteAnneTaxService.ca.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of a small group of volunteers, the small community of Resolute Bay, Nunavut, and several other northern communities have received a little extra love from the southern corner of the province.

Tereina Neubauer and Christine Brenner, from New Bothwell are the founders of “Giving From Our Hearts”. “We are Helping Our Northern Neighbours, one box at a time!” said Neubauer. “We are a group of people raising funds to help supplement social help programs in remote communities and for individuals in need of assistance.”

The organization fundraises locally to supplement food banks, soup kitchens, school programs, emergency hampers, community Feasts and distribute clothing.

They also send out Baby We Care hampers to new parents and support for community programs for the enrichment of the community.

“In 2015 we were involved in over twenty projects to get food and clothing north. We funded monthly hampers, sent next up boxes to people in need, donated to food banks, collected winter clothing for our friends in the north,” said Neubauer. “Our newest project is Christmas 2016. Our goal is for 46 students will each get individual gifts. If an extra couple make it into the community, they will be distributed to younger siblings of the students.”

Project Christmas will be providing gift packages for 46 students from Resolute Bay. Items and funds will be collected until November 14, and afterwards the gifts will be packaged and flown to their destination by Calm Air. Each package should contain a variety of age appropriate items.

To ensure that no one is missed, the group recently held a fundraiser at the Edge Bar in Steinbach, where about $6,500 was raised in support of the groups various programs. That money was matched by Calm Air, bringing the total to about $13,000.

“We did not have a lot of people attend our fundraiser, but that is okay, we managed to raise enough to keep our hamper program going for most of next year,” Neubauer added. “We

are extremely grateful to everyone who donated items, time and money. We are especially grateful to Calm Air who not only matched what we raised, but they also fly is up to the communities so we can host the event.”

Since August 2015, the organization has provided support to programs in several Nunavut communities, including Arviat, Resolute Bay, Rankin Inlet, Igloolik, Chesterfield Inlet, Grise Fiord and Tadoule Lake, Manitoba.

For more information or to get involved, check out their website www.givingfromourhearts.org or find them on Facebook under groups facebook.com/groups/HONN. WEM.

Billie Hunter, Tereina Neubauer and Christine Brenner, from New Bothwell, are the driving force behind Helping Our Northern Neighbours, an organization focused on supplementing programs in northern communities.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

Richer Pitmaster to “Smoak” Competition

By Marianne Curtis

told not to expect to place in my first competition; they told me not to get discouraged if I did not hear my name called during the event,” Turner recalled. “I came in first.”

In 2015, Turner and his team, which consists of his wife Brigette (Mrs. Smoak) and son Nick (Little Smoak) competed in five competitions which provide him opportunities to perfect their technique. To compete, teams must present four dishes consisting of pulled pork, brisket, ribs and chicken for judging in appearance, taste and tenderness.

“The trick to good barbeque is to maintain a consistent temperature for hours, consistency is the key,” Turner shared. Another secret is his

award winning Bigg Smoak Rub. This year, the family took on four events, where the team took top honours at the Triple B Festival in Kenora claiming first place. “This is a family affair for us; we work together,” Rob continued. “This is a passion of mine and I want to come off the road; I want to be home, and build something for myself and my family.” That something else was to recently purchase a food truck; eventually he would like his own restaurant.

The 2016 American Royal World Series of Barbecue takes place October 26-30, 2016 at the Kansas Speedway, Kansas City, Kansas.

In a few short weeks the Turner family from Richer will be heading to Kansas City to compete in the 2016 American Royal World Series of Barbecue.

The family is heading to the competition after Pitmaster Rob barbequed his way through various competitions until he was named the top Pitmaster in Manitoba, #4 in Canada and #11 in the United States out of 4,500 competitors.

Turner, otherwise known as Bigg Smoak, said he developed a love for real barbeque while traveling across the country as a long distance truck driver. “Everywhere you look in the states there is some type of barbeque; it is everywhere, but each area has a different taste flavour or technique,” Turner explained. “I took it up as a hobby six years ago on a Webber Kettle and now I am opening up my own food truck.”

Rob “Bigg Smoak” Turner has been competing for three years as a member of the Canadian BBQ Society. In his very first competition at the Niverville Fair in 2014 he claimed 1st place out of fourteen teams even though he Rob Turner, wife Brigette and son Nick are getting ready to load up this specially designed was warned that first timers never BullDog BBQ and head to the Kansas Speedway where they will compete in the American place. “I will never forget being Royal World Series of Barbecue at the end of October.

Ptoho by Marianne Curtis

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Near Misses Within the last year, I have had two very near misses in regards to traffic accidents.

During the spring, I was driving through Steinbach with my wife and children in the van when the driver of an oncoming vehicle decided to make a left turn through the intersection.

Thankfully, I was paying attention and slammed on my brakes.

Our van slid forward and came to a stop so close to the other vehicle that I don’t believe that I could have walked in the space between them. My family’s hearts had leapt into our throats at the near miss and we swallowed them down as we watched the other vehicle drive away. To this day, I still wonder if the other driver ever had any idea how close they came to being struck.

Another near miss for me came only a couple of weeks ago while I was alone in my truck. Driving along in the dark, I could see taillights in the distance. Based on my perception the small size of the lights dictated that the vehicle was quite a ways ahead of me. No worries, lots of space. As I drove along another vehicle approached from the front and as it neared me, its headlights lit up a large, unmoving, square outline on the road just in front of me. Instantly, my brain registered what it was and with quicker reflexes than I possess, my foot slammed on the brakes. Thanks be to God for his protection!

With hammering heart, I watched as the stopped grain truck before me slowly turned left and drove off down the gravel road.

No visible taillights and no turn signal. The lights that I had previously seen and had taken to be distant taillights were in reality the small, red, marker lights from the back of the truck’s bumper.

As I shakily drove on, it hit me that had the oncoming vehicle’s lights not lit up the outline of the truck the way it had, I would’ve struck the back of the grain truck at highway speed. I’m pretty sure that I would’ve been killed by such a large impact.

When I got to where I was going and told what had happened to a friend of mine, he was very upset at the grain truck driver, ranted, and raved about how the farmers should be making sure that their vehicles were safe for night hauling. While I agreed with him, my main thoughts were of how I was happy to be alive and that later I’d get to go home to see my wife and children and to continue living this life.

It has definitely given me more to think about and appreciate.

Now, when things are going rough and I want to get grumpy, I recall the experience and it brings me back to being more thankful for each day. I’m sure, as things tend to do, the memory will quickly fade and life will go on as it has been. Until that time, I’m going to look for the joy of being here and share what I can with my wife and children; you never know when it will slip away from you.

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

Lagoon Card Lock Gate Damaged On August 30 at approximately 2 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a report of damages being done to a card lock gate entering a lagoon in the RM of Ste Anne.

Video surveillance shows a side-by-side driving past the gate and a quad damaging the gate. Steinbach RCMP would like to talk to the individuals and asks the public for assistance in identifying any one of them in this photo.

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).

October 2016

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Falk Endorses Scheer On September 28, Saskatchewan MP Andrew Scheer made it official by filing papers and paying his first $25,000 registration fee to run for the leadership of the Conservative Party. Scheer made this announcement with support from twenty MP and senator endorsements, including one from Provencher MP Ted Falk.

“I am pleased to announce that I am supporting Andrew Scheer for leader of the Conservative Party of Canada,” Falk stated. “Andrew is a principled Conservative who has shown excellent leader-

ship abilities and has served as the youngest speaker in Canadian history. He is a dedicated family man and the clear choice for me as the next leader of the Conservative Party.”

Scheer thanked Falk for his statement. “I am honoured to have Ted Falk on board. He is a strong voice for his community and a valued member of our team. I am excited to work with Ted as our party prepares to defeat the Liberals in 2019,” said Scheer.

Scheer said his focus would be to unite Conservatives across the country around the common goals that help win elections. “We don’t always win when we are united, but we always lose when we are divided,” he told media. He said he also offers a fresh approach and a new leadership style with an “Emphasis on a positive vision.”

The Conservatives will be voting for their new leader in May 2017.

Provencher MP Ted Falk is one of many MPs backing Regina MP Andrew Scheer (centre) as the next Conservative Party leader.

12

October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Lorette Brothers Honoured

by Fire Department

Lorette District Fire Chief Rene Gougeon with eleven-year-old Braden Berube, and his father Gerald Berube.

By Marianne Curtis The RM of Tache Fire Department recognized two young brothers for their heroic actions, which may have saved the lives of their family during a house fire.

During this year’s fire department annual pancake breakfast on September 10, Lorette District Fire Chief Rene Gougeon presented eleven-year-old Braden Berube and his eightyear-old brother Gavin with a reward and called them “heroes”. “The boys were playing with their RC car and after it went dead, they took it into the house and plugged it in to charge and went back outside to play,” said Gougeon. “Meanwhile, the battery exploded and a fire started in the house.”

At the time of the blaze, the boy’s mother Jennifer Berube was in the basement and their father, Gerard was sleeping off a busy night shift as a City of Winnipeg fire fighter. Both parents were unaware of the fire. “Despite his age, Braden recognized this was a critical situation and responded appropriately,” continued Gougeon. “Without his quick thinking, this could have been a fatal house fire.”

Discovering the blaze, the boys kicked into action. Braden called 911, alerted his mother, woke up his father, and everyone got out unharmed.

Braden admits that he learned what to do from his firefighter father, but

Photo by Marianne Curtis

he never expected to use what he learned to save his life. “Dad is always telling us what to do in case of a fire,” Braden said. ”I just did what he taught us.” Gavin was too shy to respond to questions or pose for photographs.

“We are very proud of our boys,” said Jennifer. “We were told that another five to seven minutes and we would not have gotten out.”

“This is a great example of why it’s important to teach your children fire safety,” Gougeon continued. “These boys knew what to do, and this story has a happy ending.”

The RM of Tache Fire department presented the boys with St. Vital gift certificates.

October 2016

13

RCMP and Police Dog Section Make a Blitz of Arrests On September 6 between 5 am and 7 am, Steinbach RCMP were busy making numerous arrests within the city of Steinbach with the assistance of the Steinbach RCMP Police Dog Section.

RCMP first attended an address on Cedar Crescent in Steinbach where Derek Turrie, a 41-year-old Winnipeg resident was arrested and subsequently remanded into custody for multiple breaches of a court ordered recognizance.

RCMP soon after attended a unit in the 200 block of Chapel Drive. RCMP arrested two adult males and 1 adult female from this residence. Methamphetamine, stolen bicycles, stolen cheques and an imitation handgun were seized.

Sharlene Brisebois, a 33-year-old Steinbach resident was arrested and remanded into custody on one charge of breaching a condition of a court ordered recognizance and one charge of possession of property obtained by crime.

Thomas Frost, a 44-year-old Winnipeg resident was arrested and remanded into custody for multiple breaches of a court ordered recognizance.

Tyler Sawatzky, a 21-year-old Steinbach resident, was arrested for an outstanding unendorsed arrest warrant relating to three breaches of a court ordered recognizance. Further investigation led to RCMP pursuing further charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and five more breaches of a court ordered recognizance.

Rural Yard Target of Thieves Steinbach RCMP have received report of a break in to a camper and two sheds in the rural area of La Broquerie off road 33N and 46E and several tools were stolen. The theft occurred between the dates of September 15 and 20.

If you have any information in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

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October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

C ommunity E vents Dugald Manitoba Rural Women’s Day - On Saturday, October 29.

Registration 9 am, program 9:30 am -4 pm. A day of learning and sharing for women. Topic “Achieving Family Harmony”.

In addition to a great day of speakers, with a “Fireside Chat”, networking break, door prizes, hot lunch, display tables.

Hosted by Manitoba Women’s Institute Advance registration MWI members $15, non-members $20.

Contact to register mbwi.ca, 204-726-7135, Manitoba Rural Women’s Day event face book page.

Lorette Suds Spuds and Steak or Chicken Fundraiser – On Friday, October 14 from 5 – 8 pm at Le Club Les Blés d’Or at the Dawson Trail Motor Inn. Silent Auction. Tickets $20. Contact Evéline at 204-878-2405.

St. Adolphe Forever Young Dance Club – On Saturday October 8, 7 – 11 pm at Pioneer Hall. Music by Small Town Limits. Ticket $15 (includes lunch). Reservation required. Contact Rae 204 883 2440 or Denise 204 883 2429.

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

Spirals Rhythmic Gymnastics Club – For 10 Tuesday evenings begins October 4 at 6 – 7 pm or 7 – 8 pm at the Immersion School in the Gymnasium, 475 Senez St. Cost $103.00 per child for the 10 sessions. Designed for girls between the ages 4 and 10. Focuses on developing, flexibility, strength, grace, endurance, rhythm, coordination, musical awareness and creativity, while learning the basics of the sport in a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Includes insurance.

Coaches are certified under the Canadian Coaching Certification Program, and certified in First Aid and CPR.

SafetyAid Ritchot Senior Services – On Tuesday, October 11, 10 am at 457 Main St. A presentation, Seniors Centre without Walls to focus on crime and fall prevention for older adults and provides information on the seniors without walls program. Contact 204-883-2880, Ritchotseniors@mymts.net

Grunthal Fire Department Open House – On Tuesday, October 11 from 7 – 9 pm at the Fire Hall. Cost is free.

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.

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

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

New Bothwell Fire Department Open House – On Friday, October 7 from 5:30 - 8:30 pm at the Bothwell Christian Fellowship Church. Free.

Ile-des-Chênes Fall supper - On Sunday October 16, from 3 - 7:30 pm at TransCanada centre. Contact Claire Hince 204-878-4765 or idcfallsupper@hotmail.com Edge Lifestyle Show – From Friday, October 21 – Sunday, October 23 at the Trans Canada Centre. Friday open 5 - 8 pm, Saturday from 12 - 6 pm and Sunday 1-5 pm.

Quantum Dance Academy – Runs to Tuesday, May 23 2017 at 539 Main Street. For students aged 2-18 a variety of dance styles including ballet, hip-hop, jazz, tap and more. The season finishes with a recital at the Pantages Playhouse Theatre.

Contact Lee Miazga at quantumdanceacademy@gmail.com or 204- 880-5178.

Parent Child Playgroup - On Wednesdays from 10 am – 12 pm at the School in room 142. Contact idc.mb.playgroup@ gmail.com.

Spirals Rhythmic Gymnastics Club – Beginning Monday, October 3 at Ecole Ile Des Chenes School Gym. Contact Huguette Lacroix at 204-878-3868.

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

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

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

Contact sarah.abraham@gmail.com.

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

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

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

La Broquerie Bud Spud Dinner/Silent Auction/50-50 Fundraiser – On Saturday, October 22 from 5 - 7 pm at the Frantz Inn for the District Schools Heritage Association Inc. to support Sarto’s Willow Plain Municipal Heritage School Museum. Tickets $22.

Contact Helen at hfeniuk@hotmail.com, 204-453-4041.

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

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

Niverville The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club – Meets every Monday at 7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to become a better speaker, run meetings that are more effective or develop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Club is the place to start. Contact Sheryl Berglund, Sberglund4@shaw.ca.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Snacks provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

Richer Adult & Teen Challenge Concerned Persons Support Group Join us Thursday evenings at 7 pm, in the Richer Fellowship Church, 50 Southeast Drive. If you have a relationship with someone who has a life-controlling problem, join us for this nine-week Living Free course. Receive encouragement and support in a safe setting, and learn practical ways to best help your loved one. Contact Pastor Ben Funk at 204-326-2254 or phone the church at 204-422-5308.

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

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

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

Sarto Bud Spud Dinner/Silent Auction/50-50 Fundraiser – On Saturday, October 22 from 5 - 7 pm at the Frantz Inn for the District Schools Heritage Association Inc. to support Sarto’s Willow Plain Municipal Heritage School Museum. Tickets $22.

Contact Helen at hfeniuk@hotmail.com, 204-453-4041.

Ukrainian Dance Club – On Mondays from 7 - 8 pm at the Sarto Hall. Join the Sarto Polevnyi Ukrainian Dance Club for the 2016/2017 season! You do not need to be Ukrainian to dance! Boys & girls, ages 3 to adult, no prior experience required! Cost starts at $150/year.

Sprague Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser – On Saturday, November 5 from 8 am – 11:30 am at the Sprague Evergreen Seniors Club. Rainbow auction, grocery hamper raffle and 50/50 draw. Contact 204-437-2056.

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

Fall Supper - On Sunday October 16, 4 – 7 pm at Pioneer Hall, the Arena, 327 St. Adolphe Rd. Cost $14 for adults, $6 for children 6-12 years old and children under 5 free! $15 for Take-out meals (pick-up time at 4:30 pm). No reservations!

Tickets sold only at the door. Contact Monica 204-299-9396, Roger 204-688-3057 or fallsuppersouperdautomne@ gmail.com.

Tapping or EFT Tapping – On Tuesday, October 18 at10 am, 457 Main St. Presentation hosted by Ritchot Senior Services with Pamela Thrift learn Emotional Freedom Techniques a universal healing tool that can provide impressive results for physical, emotional, and performance issues.

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

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

Athena Women’s Beginner Hockey – On Sunday, October 9 at the Arena. Contact Bahia Taylor at bahia@envypaintanddesign.com for details and costs.

St. Adolphe Curling Club Curling Leagues - Start on Monday, October 10. Leagues include Men’s mixed, doubles and Junior.

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

at the Ste. Agathe School. Cost: $60 for 8 classes or $10 drop in. Contact instructor Janice Jablonski to register; jablonski. janice@gmail.com or 1-204-712-6265.

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

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

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

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

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

Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Centre on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 - 8 pm, brings a large selection of books in both French and English, for children and adults. Special requests can be made to the librarian, bibliotachelibrary.com or in person. Come for a visit and see what we are all about.

Steinbach Eastman Immigrant Services and Fruitshare – On Thursday, October 6 from 6 - 9 pm at the Superstore kitchen, presents Cooking with Canadian Food, a free cooking event with locally grown food (squash, pumpkins and apples). Pre-register, Lois@eastmanis.com or 204-346-6609.

Drop In Book Club - On Tuesday, October 11, 7 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Discussing Twilight is Not Good for Maidens

by Lou Allin. No sign up required. Just read the book and come hang out.

Ritchot Senior Services - Summer Office Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 am- noon at 457 Main Street. Contact 204 883-2880, Ritchotseniors@mymts.net.

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

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

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

Cribbage Night at the Legion – On Friday, October 14, at the Steinbach Legion 294 Lumber Ave. Registration 7 pm, cards dealt 7:30 pm. $5 entrance includes snacks and light lunch.

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

Annual Bethesda Book Faire – Starts Thursday, October 20 to Saturday, October 22 with The Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary at the Clearspring Centre. Hours Thursday – Friday 9 am – 9 pm; Saturday 9 am – 4 pm. Come and see the huge selection of used books and puzzles. Proceeds go toward the purchase of equipment for the Bethesda Regional Health facility. Contact Ruth Heppner at 204-326-2911.

St. Malo Little Métis Sing With Me Program - On Wednesday, October 12 from 10 am - noon. Invitation to parents/grandparents and children 0 to 5 at the St. Malo Church basement. Crafts, learning the Métis culture, songs, story time, healthy snacks.

Free! Everyone welcome. Contact Aline 204-347-5249.

Fall Supper – On Sunday, November 6 from 5 – 7 pm at Chalet Malouin.

Annual Christmas Craft/Bake Sale - On Saturday, November 26 from 10 am - 3 pm at Chalet Malouin. Over 30 vendors.

Contact Aline 204-347-5249.

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

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

St. Pierre-Jolys Step Aerobics with Weights - On Tuesday and Thursday at 7 pm, at the ICSP School Gym. Contact Stephanie 204-3202667, Louise 204-433-3839 or The Health Corner 204-4333891.

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

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression, bipolar, post partum mood disorders support group meetings held on the last Monday of each month at 7 pm at the Chalet Malouin boardroom. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

Ste. Agathe Ladies Hockey – Starts Sunday, October 2 at the Arena. All levels welcome, including first timers. Contact cougarsrechockey@gmail.com for more info and costs.

Zumba – Every Wednesday until November 2, from 7 – 8 pm

Steinbach & Area Garden Club – On Monday, October 17 at 7 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village. “Rain Gardens” Guest Speaker Dorthea Gregoire, Watershed Technician, Seine – Rat River Conservation District has all the information. What are they, why they’re important, and how to create a beautiful garden, which also collects storm water, prevents runoff and keeps toxic metals out of storm drains. Extra Feature – outlining the installation of the Clearspring Middle School rain garden involving Master Gardeners and Master Gardeners in training from the Steinbach & Area Garden Club. All welcome.

Non-member walk-in fee $5. Refreshments and door prizes.

Contact 204-326-2351 or email info@sagardenclub.com.

Back to Nature! - On Friday, October 21 at 1:30 pm, enjoy a reading by our special guest, Carol Wall from Nature Conservancy Canada. All ages welcome. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Don’t forget to sign up in advance for the paper bag book craft and scavenger hunt to follow the reading! Sign up is available at the Circ Desk.

Limited spots available. For ages 6 - 10.

Koncerts 4 Kidz Series – On October 22, at 2 pm at the SRSS Theatre with Al Simmon Tickets $14, reserve your seats. Package Special (Al Simmons & Munschbusters) 2 shows for $22.

Munschbusters by Prairie Theatre Exchange on Friday, January 20, 2017.

Knit-Wits Drop-In Club for Adults - Knit-Wits begins Monday, October 24 from 6 – 9 pm at the Jake Epp Library, continues every fourth Friday of the month. This is for anyone interested in fibre hand crafts such as knitting, crocheting, cross stitch, needlepoint etc. This is not a class but a casual knitting circle for all skill levels.

Dessert Night Author Reading - On Monday October 24 at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Library. Featuring two authors, Vicki Olatundun (Steinbach Family Resource Centre) with “Unleash Your Crazy to Win” and Elizabeth Murray (Winnipeg Author) unveils her book “Holding On To Mamie”. Refreshments served and books will be available for sale.

NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) – Is back with a kick-off is on Tuesday, October 25 at 7 pm, at the Jake Epp Library.

Paint the Night Away Fundraiser – On Wednesday, October 26 at 7 pm at the Steinbach Legion with Colleen Watchorn.

Cost $40 includes all supplies and light lunch. Contact 204381-0558 for tickets.

Dawson Trail Dispatch Classic Movie Night - On Friday, October 28 at 7 pm watch Arsenic and Old Lace featuring Cary Grant. Rated PG. Free admission. Free Popcorn! All children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Halloween at the Library - On Monday, October 31 from 10:30 - 11:30 am (ages 5-8); 1:30 - 2:30 pm (ages 9-12), at the Jake Epp Library. Games, crafts and dress up (No scary costumes please!)

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

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

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

Pronunciation Skills – Intermediate Pronunciation on Monday and Wednesday from 5 – 7 pm. Advanced Pronunciation on Monday and Wednesday from 7 – 9 pm at D4-284 Reimer Ave. Classes are free.

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

Soccer Flyer (indoor soccer for adults) – Mondays at 8 pm, Steinbach Evangelical Mennonite Church (SEMC,) 422 Main Street.

International Cooking Classes – in La Broquerie. Space is limited. Contact to register 204-346-6609 or email lois@ eastmanis.com.

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

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

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

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

Event includes tea and coffee.

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

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

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

Green Drinks South Eastman - South Eastman Transition Initiative presents Green Drinks South Eastman. On the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 7 pm at Lecoka, 8B - Brandt Street. Drop in and discuss sustainable living. Contact rebecca_hiebert@yahoo.com.

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

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

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

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and support groups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns. Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Jake Epp Library from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn 204444-5228.

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.

Dawson Trail Dispatch 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 204424-5737.

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 Vintage Snowmobile Swap Meet - On Saturday, October 15, starting at 10 am at Woodridge Community Centre picnic

Pat Porter Active Living Centre offers programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for older adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come, pay us a visit, and consider participating in some of our programs. Drop by the Centre Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. For more information call the Centre at 204-320-4600 or go to patporteralc.com.

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities! grounds. Vendor at 7:30 am. 1st Annual South East SnoRiders host vintage snowmobile and related items swap meet and show and shine at the on October 15th 2016 starting at 10.00AM. Vendor cost $20 for a truck and trailer or $10 for a single table. General admission $5. Great food served on site. Contact Dave Boutang dboutang@mts.net or Maureen Sorokowski jmsorokowski@gmail.com.

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 Tuesday, October 11 from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Join us for a great day of fun and friendship. Visit McPhillips Street Station in the morning and Club Regent in the afternoon. Begins at 8:30 am, pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village.

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

Contact 204-320-4605 by 9 am to reserve your meal. Purchase your meal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menus are available at the office, online, or in the newsletter. Bring a friend!

Beltone Hearing Clinic: Third Friday of the month. Call 1-800-6612653 to book your appointment.

Foot Care Clinic: Foot care is available the first Tuesday and Wednesday of every month and the third Tuesday and Thursday of evRentals and Functions: Book your ery month. Call the Centre to book next function at Pat Porter Active your appointment.

Living Centre. We can accommodate the following but are not lim- Note – occasionally programs are ited to Weddings, Anniversaries, cancelled due to special events.

Birthdays, Banquets, Conferences, Please contact the Centre for confirFamily Gatherings and More! Con- mation of programs times and date. tact Lynda at 204-320-4603 for more information.

Regular Activities: Choir – Wednesday, October 5 Volunteer Opportunity at 10 am – 12:00 pm. Contact 204> Handy Man: If you like to help out 320-4600 to register. Lin Wiebe is with miscellaneous tasks we would our new Choir Director. be pleased to have you on board.

Cozy Corner Coffee Time: Come > Kitchen Help: If you have kitchen join us at 10:30 every morning for skills and enjoy cooking and bak- coffee, tea, and a cookie. Meet new ing, we could use the help. people and staff in a friendly and inVolunteer with us, we could use viting atmosphere. volunteers in many different areas.

Drop in Billiards: Monday - FriWhatever your skill set or age, we day 9 am – 4 pm. have a place for you. Whether you Computer Classes: Wednesdays, can volunteer for an hour a month, contact 204-320-4600 to book an week or day or several hours we appointment can accommodate you with tasks.

Cards: 1 pm - 4 pm. Monday Contact Lynda at 204-320-4603 for – Canasta, Wednesday - Cribbage; more information.

Thursday – Whist.

Tai Chi: Monday evenings at 7 Employment Opportunity: Casual pm, Wednesday mornings at 10 am paid position needed for a Casual and Thursdays at 2 – 3:30 pm.

Cook. If interested in further inforPickleball: Monday, Tuesday, mation or to apply contact Carrie at Thursday and Fridays 9 am – Noon.

204-320-4604.

Floor Curling: Wednesdays 1:30 – 4 pm.

Upcoming Events: Please come by Floor Shuffle: Wednesdays 1:30 the Centre to pick up our newslet- – 4 pm. (New date) ter for full details on all upcoming Old Time Country Jam: Wednesevents. days 7- 9 pm.

Birthday Party: On first WednesHo Model Railway Project: Monday of the month – October 5 at 2 day - Friday from 9 am – 4 pm.

– 3 pm. Cost $2 for guests and free for those celebrating their birthday. Membership at the Pat Porter AcPotluck: On Thursday, October tive Living Centre is only $25 per 13 at 6 pm. Cost $6. Please bring a year. Memberships are due in JanuSalad, Casserole or Dessert. If you ary of each year. After January, know, you are coming please call a memberships can be bought at $30. week in advance so we can prepare Membership is for those 55 years the appropriate quantity of meat. of age and older. Benefits include Contact to register and for more in- reduced program rates, a voice in formation. business meetings, voting rights, Noon Meals Available: From and eligibility to serve on the board Monday through Friday. Cost $6. or committees.

October 2016

15

Imagine Run Raises Thousands for Mental Health

By Marianne Curtis On September 24, the annual Imagine Run for Mental Health Awareness took place at the Hespeler Park in Niverville.

Founded by Mona Stott of Niverville, the Imagine Run is organized annually by a committee of volunteers who care about suicide prevention and mental health. Stott founded the run after her own son Joey committed suicide in 2007. “Many people have lost loved ones to mental illness and suicide,” said Stott. “We want to erase the stigma of mental health and to break the silken and make it okay to get help.”

Since Joey’s death, Stott and her family have become strong advocates to remove the stigma Hundreds of participants took part in this year’s Imagine Run. of mental illness and save lives by organizing the run each year. Proceeds from the race will benefit Manitobans by creating awareness of mental health issues and services available and provide funding for Eden Health Care Services.

Participants could complete a 5K walk, a 10K walk or a half marathon around the park.

The run was just one of several events that took place during the event. Back at the park, there were children’s entertainers, a petting zoo, live music, bouncy castles and a barbeque.

Proceeds from this event will benefit Manitobans by creating awareness of mental health issues and services available and provide funding for Eden Health Care Services. Three days prior to the event, organizers hosted One Big Day for A family of participants walks down the Lonely Mile, in memory of those who lost their battle with mental illness.

Imagine. The event raised $11,000.

Photos by Marianne Curtis

New! Koncerts 4 Kidz Series First Concert - Al Simmons, Juno award winning children’s entertainer, on Saturday October 22 at 2 pm SRSS Theatre. Tickets: $14 – reserve your seats. Package Special (Al Simmons & Munschbusters!) 2 shows for $22.

Munschbusters! by Prairie Theatre Exchange on Friday, January 20.

Project Worship Choir...Calling all singers and Music Lovers of all ages!

It’s a community-wide music worship event. Join Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church Pastor, Danny Plett, and other community singers and musicians in proud partnership with The Steinbach Arts Council. After 8 rehearsals…2 powerful and unforgettable concerts on Friday, February 17 and Saturday, February 18 at 7 pm. Plus an additional service on Sunday, February 19 during service.

Call 204-326-9865 or Online at projectworship.ca for rehearsal dates.

Enjoy concerts all year round!

Makes the perfect gift…

Duo Fortin-Poirier Pianists, The Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre’s Last Train to Nibroc, Twin Kennedy fiddle, guitar and singing duo… and more! A huge feature is a Community Musical, The Wizard of Oz, directed by David Klassen!

Another added attraction is the Family Day Fringe Fest in February.

Reserve your seats today.

Season Ticket Holders - Did you renew your seats? If not, call today...or

we give them away! The best seats in town! (and for the community musical ...you’re in!). Still a few spots available.

Arts4Tots Preschool Program – NEW! Montessori-Inspired Curriculum Why are we unique? The most creative way to learn for ages 3-5 with specialists in dance, music, drama and visual arts! Join Miss Pam and Miss Jen for a year full of creativity, arts, field trips, learning and more! Monday/Wednesday in am or pm and Tuesday/Thursday in am or pm.

The Backyard Theatre Company – We Want You! Build your confidence, ignite your creativity and explore your imagination. Get involved with the community! Discover the process of preparing for a play, character building and practicing scripts for a Christmas Showcase and final Production on stage at the SRSS Theatre. For Ages 5 – 17.

NEW - Fall Workshops NEW - Cake X-Travaganza – On Saturday, October 15 from 9 am – 1 pm.

Love to decorate?...want to learn how?

Experience cake decorating including sculpting, fondant, gum paste, piping and decorating techniques.

NEW - Couples Cooking – On Friday, October 28 from 5 – 9 pm. Food brings people together and tastes best when shared with your significant other. Join Chef Cassandra for an evening of quality time in the kitchen. Make this your Friday night out!

Wizard of OZ! - Comes to Steinbach Auditions running from Friday,

November 4 – Sunday, November 6. More details online steinbachartscouncil.ca... Don’t miss out!

Be in the musical – join up in the workshops!

NEW -FUSION! Musical Theatre Program – Ages 9-14 and 15-19.

Music, Dance, Drama workshops by some of the industries finest…expand your triple threat skills!

The Winning Audition – On Wednesday, October 19 from 7 – 9 pm.

Your Voice – On Monday, December 12 from 6 – 8 pm.

Acting the Part – On Thursday, February 16, 2017 from 6 – 8 pm.

Dance Your Feet Off – On Thursday, March 23, 2017 from 6 – 8 pm. $35 per workshop – 4 for $126.

Anyone auditioning for OZ will receive the first workshop, at no cost!

NEW - MUSIC LESSONS We have a stellar new lineup for 2016-17 …some of the top instructors in the province will be teaching at the Arts Centre this year!

Piano - Dr. Darryl Friesen Vocal - Dr. Shannon Unger Cello – Natalie Dawe Theory - Candace Hamm Violin – Hannah Humphries Call 204-346-1077 for more information today!

Visit the steinbachartscouncil.ca website for their bios, details and how to contact them.

Hall Gallery Art Exhibit -13th Annual Expressions’ Exploring Recovery through Art featuring various artists. Exhibit opening reception on Friday, October 7 at 7 pm in The Steinbach Arts Council’s Hall Gallery.

ARTISTS! Join the Southeast Artists Group on Tuesday mornings at the Cultural Arts Centre.

Many more details on steinbachartscouncil.ca.

16

October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Solving the Impossible Problem Have you ever wondered why we face problems that have no apparent solution? The Israelites fleeing Egypt journeyed to the Red Sea. In front of them was an impossible sea to cross. Behind them the Egyptian army was fast closing in. There was no apparent solution.

In John 4:46-53 in the Bible, a nobleman had a sick and dying son. He had apparently tried everything for his son but nothing helped.

In Mark 5:25-29, a woman with a blood disorder had spent all she had going from doctor to doctor trying to get help. But she only got worse.

A number of years ago a problem surfaced in the ministry I was in. People wanted me to take action to solve it. But if I decided one way, I lost; and if I decided the other way, I still lost. There was no apparent solution. So I went to a wise Pastor for advice.

He said that considering all the circumstances it would be best if I did nothing but wait and let God sort it out. He was right but do you know how hard it is to sit back and do nothing, when you really want to solve the problem right away, and especially if you have the authority to act?

There’s an account in Scripture of a Pharisee (a religious person) and a publican (a known sinner) who went to the same church.

The publican freely admitted his sin and put himself at God’s mercy. The Pharisee trusted in himself. The publican, because of his honesty before God, ended up justified and he now had a closer walk with God. The Pharisee

went home an unchanged man, not really knowing God, because he trusted in himself and no one else.

God allows and even ordains problems in our lives that have no apparent solution to bring us to the end of ourselves. At this point we now have the opportunity to turn to God. When Israel waited on God, He opened the sea so they could travel across on dry ground. When the nobleman turned to Jesus Christ, his son was healed. When the woman with the blood disorder touched the hem of Christ’s garment, she was healed. When I quit trying to solve my problem my way, God took care of it in His time and in His way.

There seems to be a principle in Scripture that God loves it when His children come to the end of themselves. It is at such times that we find out how capable our God really is. Someone said, “At the end of self, you’ll find God”.

Dear reader, are you perplexed, troubled or discouraged by all the troubles in your life? Why not come to the end of yourself, turn to God and let Him solve your problems? He’s had lots of practice and has proved Himself faithful for over 6,000 years.

God’s offer to you today is found in Malachi 3:10, “Prove me now herewith”.

God bless you as you respond to His invitation to solve your impossible problems.

Bethesda Auxiliary to Host Fall Book Sale The Bethesda Hospital Health Care Auxiliary is gearing up for their annual fall book sale from October 2022 at the Clearspring Centre.

The annual fall event will raise funds for the new hydrotherapy tub for Bethesda Place.

Bethesda Hospital Health Care Auxiliary representative Verna Thiessen is optimistic that the upcoming fall book sale will raise a significant portion of funds towards their current project. “We want to pay off the hydrotherapy tub for Bethesda Place,” said Thiessen.

Donations of books are still being collected at the Clearspring Center

on Tuesdays from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. The drop-off location is in the mall by Sobey’s. A 50-cent book sale is also taking place to get rid of excess books that may not be suitable for the actual sale.

Volunteers are still needed and anyone wishing to help with the book sale is invited to contact Verna Thiessen at 326-3028 for more information.

The Bethesda Ladies Health Care Auxiliary is also looking for new members. Anyone interested in joining the group is encouraged to contact Verna.

Stolen Pickup Recovered On September 3 at 7:40 am, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen 2013 Black Ford F-150 bearing Manitoba plate HMH399. The vehicle was stolen from Westview Place in Steinbach at approximately 2:40 am that same day.

The vehicle was later recovered in the area of Road 30 N and Road 36 E

in the RM of La Broquerie.

If you have any info in regards to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-326-4452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-2228477 or manitobacrimestoppers. com or text “TIPMAN” plus your msg to Crimes (274637).

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Tache Recognizes Retiring Fire Fighters

RM of Tache Municipal Fire Chief Peter Skjarland with retiring fire fighters Justin Legal, Dan Hrynchuk and George de Koninck along side RM of Tache Mayor Robert Rivard.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis The RM of Tache municipality recognized three long time firefighters who recently retired after a combined forty-eight years of service.

On September 27, Council held a brief ceremony to personally thank Justin Legal, Dan Hrynchuk and George de Koninck for their years of services as volunteer fire fighters for the municipality.

“Today is both a good and a bad day. It’s a good day, because you are retiring, but it’s also a bad day because we are losing three dedicated volunteers. We call what you do, a part time fire department, but you guys give up personal time and family

time for this,” said Rivard. “You only get paid when you get a call, yet you respond to everything and we, as a municipality, appreciate all that you have done. Thank you for your service!”

Legal is retiring after 15 years service with the St. Genevieve Fire Department, 11 of those years as District Fire Chief. “I enjoyed being part of the fire department, but I moved outside of the municipality so I had to retire,” Legal explained.

Hrynchuk and de Koninck are ten and fifteen year veterans with the Lorette Fire Department. Each exiting fire fighter was presented with an engraved clock, designed to commemorate their years of services to the fire department.

RCMP Search for Shoplifters Steinbach RCMP is requesting the public’s help in identifying suspects in a recent shoplifting complaint.

The theft occurred on August 13 at approximately 5:38 pm. Two suspects, along with two young children, attended the Superstore in Steinbach, and left without paying for a cart full of groceries.

If you have any information in regards

to the above you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at 204-3264452 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-2228477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

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Multiple Challenges Titus 3:8-9... 8) This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good.

These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. 9) But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. (NIV) Multiple Challenges: Scripture teaches that we are to speak evil of no one. Rather, we should strive to show a gentle spirit when interacting with others. I would do well to remember that I am pretty foolish myself at times. The very thing that I criticize in others is likely one of my own weaknesses.

Yes! I might be tempted to call attention to other folk’s faults just to take the eye off my own problems. We should avoid controversies and foolish discussions; they are always useless and futile. So often, an argument only strengthens a person in what they believed before. We should do all we can to correct a person in such a way that they will be given a boost or strengthened then devote our time to positive Christian service.

I think it is right to say that we ought to be ready to help since what is asked of us is good. There have been times during our coffee time chatter in our neighbourhood restaurant where some folks complain about boredom. Could it be that boredom might be as a result of being somewhat selfish or full of oneself? Since I live with the idea of, “Why should I do it? Let someone else do it.” I am bound to be bored. The thing that makes life interesting is service.

The follower of Christ is called to be welcoming others. We are not the aggressive type. We are not fighters amongst ourselves. This does not mean that we will sit back and allow others to steamroll over us. We will stand for the principles, which we believe to be right, but we will never be so opinionated as to believe that no other way than our own is right. We will allow others the same right that we claim, so that they, too, can express their Christian convictions based on the Inspired Word of God in a wholesome atmosphere.

There are times when I remind myself to keep my displeasure under control. I am old enough to know when to be angry and when not to be angry. Sometimes we must patiently bear wrongs done to us, but must always be ready to spring up and help those who are being trampled on. Qualities like these are only possible for those in whose heart the Holy Spirit is in control.

Life experiences teach many lessons. Some are good; some are not so good. Some, in fact, have been caused by none other than me. How I work with the circumstances that I am directly responsible for mirrors my Christian walk and talk. I have found it tough to undo that which I have created.

It is tough to apologize, to restart a relationship. It usually means I have to wrestle with a selfish attitude and take advice. When I do that, I must admit I was wrong and that I will attempt not to mess up and will even work to be charitable and to profit from my mistakes. It is great to keep out of a boiling pot so that we can make the best of the little issues in life. When I/we do that, we learn to shoulder a deserved blame. Who knows, we might even begin to recognize there is a silver lining in most of our struggles.

If I push my private opinions against all the teaching and the traditions of Scripture, and I have decided that everybody else is wrong and I am the only person with right ideas, I am setting myself up for failure.

We must always be very careful of any opinions, which separate us from the fellowship of the Holy Spirit and other believers. True faith does not divide the fellowship it unites. Our text tells us that these things that we were told are all true; insist on them so Christians will be careful to do good deeds all the time, for this is not only right, but will bring good results... To God Be the Glory Great Things He has done!

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

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October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Ste. Anne Artist Celebrates St. Boniface Gallery Exhibit

By Marianne Curtis For the past three years, Pierrette Sherwood owned and operated a little antique and artist’s haven in the community of Ste. Anne.

This summer she shut down her business and turned her focus back into what she loves the most, creating beautiful metal sculptures and art. This gamble has paid off as she was recently invited to set up her first gallery show at the Le Musée de St. Boniface Museum in Winnipeg.

The rustic architecture of the gallery enhances the ambiance required to feel the emotion and skill invested in the creation of the twenty-four pieces on display, despite their steely metal components.

“The opportunity for this show came to me this spring, and I spent all summer getting my pieces together,” Sherwood explained.

Drawn to old agricultural implements and antiques, Sherwood transforms rustic metal and found objects through sculpture, mosaic and assemblage. “The inherent character of these pieces carries a sense of history and tradition. It beckons a respect for the past. I want to capture this essence and translate it into works that draw on nostalgia as well as one’s own relationship with the earth,” Sherwood explained. “Objects carry memories, stirring emotions that are often deeply rooted, and so my creative process can be at once provoca-

tive and self-reflective.”

As a self-taught artist she was drawn to creating art since a very young age. With an interest in reclaimed materials and metal she took a welding course at Red River Community College followed by a metal-smithing course at the Mechosin International School of the Arts in 2010. “For many years I did the corporate route, but I felt a restlessness that remained unfulfilled,” Sherwood continued. “I needed to do what was in my heart… my art; I have not looked back.”

In 2012 she quit her job to pursue a career as a professional artist. At the time she opened Papillon Creations in Ste. Anne where she displayed her art and vintage to the public. She was later awarded first prize at a “Dragon’s Den” like contest initiated by the Economic Development Corporation of Manitoba (CDEM). Her artwork has since garnered local and national media attention.

This Fall she will be featured as a guest artist on “Handcrafted Manitoba”, an MTS Stories from Home series, airing on the MTS On Demand network.

Sherwood’s gallery show is running at the Le Musée de St. Boniface Museum in Winnipeg from September 16 to December 23.

All the pieces are for sale. Her products can also be found at Lacaste Garden Centre and the Old House Revival on Young Street.

Pierrette Sherwood shows off one of her favorite pieces called “Recolte dans le temps/Harvest Through Time” which is created out of reclaimed metal with a special insert created by Emile Verrier (the oxcart).

Photo by Marianne Curtis

Carwash Raises Funds for Special Olympics On September 10, the Home Hardware in Lorette hosted a fundraiser to raise money for Special Olympics Manitoba.

“In a few short hours we raised over $300 for Special Olympics,” said Lorette Home Hardware owner Dave Audette. “Christine one of our Lorette Home Hardware employees and first year University of Manitoba student, organized the event and we are very proud of the way she put this together.”

All funds raised at the event sup- Four Special Olympic athletes from the Eastman region, along with port the Eastman Special Olym- Special Olympic volunteers Jacquelyn and Christine Wiebe participated in the fundraising car wash. pics athletes.

Submitted by Dave Audette

October 2016

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Steinbach Legion Will “Swing” You Back in Time

The internationally acclaimed Sgt. Wilson’s Army Show is coming to Steinbach on Thursday, November 24 and is guaranteed to transport you back in time with the swinging sounds of the 40-50s.

The Dutch live entertainment production is undertaking a Canada-wide tour and the thanks to the hard work of the Royal Canadian Legion in Steinbach; southeast Manitoba will have an opportunity to take in this nostalgic evening.

The Sgt. Wilson’s Army Show performs songs from the Andrews Sisters, Glenn Miller, Vera Lynn and more. The impeccable reproduction of the sound from the big band era will sure to please all ages.

Steinbach Legion President Bill Richards said the entire board is excited to host this event and are working hard to create a memorable evening.

Tickets are only $15 each, which includes a wine and cheese pre-show get-together at 6:15 pm, a post show, meet and greet with the performers and a variety of desserts available.

For tickets and information, contact the Legion at 204-326-5335; visit the website at steinbachlegion.ca or their Facebook page.

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October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Lorette’s Family Fun Day a huge success For three days at the beginning of September, the community of Lorette was bustling with activity. This year’s Lorette Family Fun Days took place from September 9 to 11, making it the last summer festival of the year.

“It was an amazing weekend,” stated event organizers. “We’d really like to thank our volunteers. It’s not easy giving up your weekend

but we hope people had fun and we greatly appreciate the help, couldn’t do it without you. It was very nice to have so many community groups, volunteer as well.”

Some of the activities included a midway, live music, fireworks, bouncers, petting zoo, vendor fair, baseball tournament, dog show, casino night, crib tournament, laser tag, wagon rides, pancake breakfast, and tons of other family friendly activities.

Spectators lined the streets to enjoy the parade.

The midway was a hit during Lorette’s Family Fun Days.

Photos by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis

Dawson Trail Dispatch

RM of Stuartburn Earns Age-Friendly Award

By Marianne Curtis The RM of Stuartburn was one of three communities in Manitoba to be recognized with Age-Friendly Milestone Recognition Awards when Seniors and Elders Month in Manitoba kicked off on October 1.

Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Kelvin Goertzen was on hand to personally present the award to the RM of Stuartburn, Franklin-Emerson and Winker.

“This award recognizes the dedication and determination of these communities to address the specific needs of older people,” said Goertzen. “It involves comprehensive planning, removing barriers and offering supports and services that enable older adults to fully and actively participate in their communities.”

Goertzen presented the awards at an event that took place at Steinbach’s Pat Porter Active Living Centre in celebration of Seniors’ and Elders’ Day during the month long event in Manitoba.

Provencher MP Ted Falk was also on hand at the event. “National Seniors’ Day pays tribute to Canadians over 65 who have helped build our country and shape our society,” Falk added. “They bring a wealth of knowledge ready to be passed down to the next genera-

Provencher MP Ted Falk, La Verendrye MLA Dennis Smook and Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen presented the award to RM of Stuartburn Reeve Jim Swidersky.

tion and are often key leaders and volunteers in our communities.”

Seniors’ and Elders’ Day celebrations have been held annually in Manitoba since 1989.

To be eligible for an Age-Friendly Milestones Recognition Award, Manitoba’s Age-Friendly communities must achieve the following milestones including establishing an age-friendly advisory committee that actively engages older adults; passing a local council resolution to actively work towards becoming age-friendly; creating an action plan

that includes a needs assessment developed with older adults; publicly posting the action plan; and committing to measuring, reviewing and reporting publicly on action plan outcomes.

With the addition of Franklin-Emerson, Stuartburn and Winkler, 28 Manitoba communities have now received an Age-Friendly Milestones Recognition Award. In all, 84 communities are designated agefriendly in Manitoba.

Driver Charged After Hadashville Trail Derailment A twenty-five year old Hadashville man has been charged with failing to stop at a railway crossing after the gravel truck he was driving collided with a train in Hadashville.

On September 19, Falcon Beach RCMP received a report that a freight train and gravel truck crashed, causing a derailment and sending one person to hospital.

The accident happened just before 3:30 pm at a rail crossing on Highway 11 in the community of

Hadashville.

The driver of the truck was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. The two train operators also sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

There are no traffic control arms at the crossing but there are lights, which were working at the time, RCMP said. The gravel truck driver was charged with failing to stop at a railway crossing. The tracks were heavily damaged in the accident.

A 25-year-old Hadashville man has been charged with failing to stop at a railway crossing after he collided with a train at a lighted crossing.

Photo courtesy RCMP

Piney Establishes Regional Chamber A core group of individuals has been working diligently to set up a regional chamber of commerce within the RM of Piney.

According to Jonathon Prevost, the group has been attending monthly meetings to set up and implement structures needed to be successful as a chamber. “In

August, we finalized our first draft of the bylaws and completed the first reading during our monthly meeting, having a couple minor revisions from that version,” Prevost said in a statement on the RM of Piney website.

Once the budding chamber approves their bylaws, they plan to

officially function as a chamber and begin promoting the businesses and communities in the region.

Any business interested in attending or looking for more information should contact Jonathon Prevost at 204-437-3037 or by e-mail jonathon.prevost@gmail.com.

Trustee By-Election Needed for Vita The Border Land School Division will be holding a trustee by-election after the trustee for Ward 2, which is the Vita, Stuartburn and Sundown area, has stepped down.

Nominations to fill the vacancy were open until October 4.

The trustee by-election will take place November 9 and 10, if there is more than one candidate. If no one runs, the board can appoint someone to fill the vacancy.

The vacancy was created after Trustee Jared Fast moved out of the division boundaries for work.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

RCMP REPORTS Lorette Grow-Op Busted A Lorette couple has been charged after St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP dismantled a marijuana grow operation in the community of Lorette.

RCMP said they seized 123 marijuana plants from the home, located on Ferland Bay, on September 9, as well as two pounds of processed dry marijuana and various drug paraphernalia.

Dean Nault, 54, and Fawn Fontaine, 30, have been charged with possessing a controlled substance, producing a controlled substance, and drug trafficking.

The Office of the Fire Commissioner has deemed the house that was used as a grow op unsafe for living.

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Culprits Use Stolen Wheel Barrow in Tool Theft On Sunday, September 4 Steinbach RCMP were advised of a break and enter to a residence and a utility trailer on Reimer Avenue. According to the report, the theft happened sometime between Monday, August 29 and Sunday, September 4.

A large amount of construction tools worth between $4,000 and $6,000 were stolen from the residence and utility trailer. It is believed that the culprit(s) transported the stolen tools away from the residence with a stolen wheelbarrow. It is believed that the culprit(s) left the property eastbound on Reimer Avenue towards Hespeler Street North.

RCMP Want to Talk to Walmart Shoppers Driver Leaves Scene After Striking Pedestrian On September 8 at approximately 2 pm, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle leaving the parking lot of 115 Reimer Avenue.

The driver of the vehicle did not stay behind to exchange information, or check if the pedestrian was hurt.

The vehicle is described as a red small fourdoor sedan and possibly being driven by a female. Steinbach RCMP would like to talk to the individual driving that vehicle and is asks the public for assistance with the identification.

La Broquerie Man Arrested on Credit Card Fraud On September 3 Steinbach RCMP were advised that a male suspect was in possession of stolen credit cards attempting to make purchases in the La Broquerie area.

On September the 5 Steinbach RCMP located and arrested the man at the La Broquerie Shell gas station in La Broquerie. A stolen credit card, open alcohol, tools and a loaded 12 gauge shot gun were seized.

Jacques Gagnon, a 35-year-old resident of the RM of La Broquerie, was remanded into custody on one charge of possession of stolen property, one charge of misuse of credit card, one charge of possession of firearm while knowing possession is not authorized and two breaches of a court ordered recognizance.

The investigation into the possession and fraudulent use of the credit cards is on going.

On September 1 at around7 pm, a male and a female attended the Steinbach Walmart and returned two items. Video surveillance was obtained of the transaction. Steinbach RCMP would like to talk to the individuals in that incident and is asking the public for assistance in identifying either of them.

Flat Deck Trailer Stolen from Ross Steinbach RCMP received a report of a flat deck trailer stolen from a residence in the town of Ross that occurred between September 3 and September 5.

The trailer was registered with a Manitoba plate X3057 and described as 20 feet in length, with aluminum rims and wheel wells.

City Compound Broken into Twice Steinbach RCMP have received reports of two separate break-ins to a City of Steinbach compound on Hanover Road. The first break in occurred on July 26 and several weeks later, the same compound was broken into again. The suspect broke in and stole several work related items, including tow ropes, and a laser thermometer.

Male Youth Sought in Sexual Assault Steinbach RCMP is seeking public assistance in identifying a male teenager who inappropriately touched a woman on the Centre Street walking path in Mitchell on September 20 at approximately 5:30 pm. The male youth was described as being approximately 5’8”, Caucasian, thin build and blonde. At the time he was wearing blue jeans and a blue striped polo t-shirt.

Vehicle Identified During Cottage Break In Yard Tractor Stolen

Steinbach RCMP received a report of a break in at a cottage on Rd 30 N near PR 302 in the RM of La Broquerie. The break-in occurred August 29 and on September 2 in the evening hours. A Hyundai Veracruz was seen leaving the scene and being driven by the suspect.

On September 10, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a break in from a residence in the RM of Hanover. According to police, the theft of a 2013-John Deere Tractor occurred between September 8 and September 10.

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

October 2016

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Nathan Dueck Elected in Niverville By-Election On September 14, Nathan Dueck successfully beat out opponents Louise Bellows and John Falk at the polls during a by-election in the Town of Niverville.

Dueck, a twelve-year resident of the community, said that one of the main reasons he decided to run was to help improve transparency and communication. “As a citizen, I didn’t feel that I had the best representation, and I didn’t feel that the town was being as transparent as it could have been or should have been,” responded Dueck when asked why he is running. “You can sit back and complain about different issues or you can actually go doing something.”

The by-election was held to fill a vacancy created when former councillor Falk was forced to leave his seat to join the provincial election race.

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Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

What to Look for During Roof Inspections Cold weather can be tough on a home, and perhaps no part of a home is more vulnerable to harsh winter weather than its roof.

Fallen snow can equate to several pounds of pressure placed on a residential roof. Roofs do not often collapse under heavy snowfall. But adverse winter weather conditions can compromise roofs in other ways.

Water leakage and damage to the roof’s interior are just two of the potentially problematic issues that can arise when roofs are battered by cold, blustery weather. That’s why many home improvement specialists advise homeowners to conduct roof inspections prior to the start of winter.

Many homeowners can conduct their own cursory roof inspections, but they may not know exactly what to look for.

The National Roofing Contractors Association says that there are certain key areas to inspect that may reveal some telltale signs of roof damage.

Curled, cracked or missing shingles may prove troublesome. Inclement weather can test the strength of even the most durable roofs. Even though many roofs are designed to last up to 30 years, some may need to be replaced early, particularly when they have been exposed to harsh weather over a period

of years. Individual shingles can be replaced as spot treatments, but if the damage is widespread, a new roof may be necessary.

Attic leaks or water elsewhere might signal issues with the roof.

Figure out if water inside the home is coming from the roof. Water stains do not always indicate problems with the roofing, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Look for protective granules wearing off. If gutters are filled with the sandy granular material that coats roofing shingles, that may be a sign of an aging or damaged roof.

Inspect flashing. Professional roofers can recognize properly installed flashing, the material that connects the roof to other parts of the house that adjoin the roof, like skylights or a chimneys. Poorly installed flashing can cause leaks.

Stains that appear below chimneys or near attic windows may indicate new flashing, and not new shingles, is needed.

Gutters and downspouts should be in good condition. A roof is the sum of its parts, and that includes downspouts and gutters. If the gutters are clogged or damaged, they cannot direct water away from the house properly. Snow, leaves and other debris needs to be cleared from gutters to help them function at optimal capacity.

Animals and insects can cause damage, too. It’s not just poor weather that homeowners need to consider with regard to roof damage. Boring insects and animals may cause problems with roofs as well. A roof inspection may shed light on potential pest problems.

Holes or nesting materials may indicate that an animal or animals are using the attic as a shelter from the elements.

Get to the root of issues with your home’s roof before they become bigger problems once winter arrives. A thorough inspection can reveal problems that may prove costly if ignored.

Employ Simple Fire Prevention Measures to Maximize Safety Did you know that, according to the National Fire Protection Association, most people have a false sense of security regarding house fires, believing that they would have approximately six minutes to evacuate their home in the event of a fire?

In reality, smoke and fire spread rapidly and can overcome occupants in less than three minutes.

When a fire occurs, there’s no question that time is critical. The good news is there are several important steps you can take to maximize your escape time. With the following measures in place, you’ll create critical protection for

what matters most –– your home and family.

1. Install smoke alarms. You should have one in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement. For the best protection, make sure all smoke alarms are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.

2. Inspect and clean smoke alarms monthly. Replace batteries in spring and fall. To clean the alarm, open the cover and gently vacuum the interior.

3. Prepare and practice a fire escape plan. Draw a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of

every room — especially sleeping areas. Discuss the escape routes with every member of your household, and agree on a meeting place outside your home in case of emergency. Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.

4. Select building materials that provide passive fire protection. Passive fire protection is part of the core of the building and helps control fire by limiting its spread. One very effective form of passive fire protection is the installation of insulation. When adding or upgrading insulation, look for products made from naturally fire-resistant, inorganic materials.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

October 2016

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5 Tips to Make an Older Home More Energy Efficient While new homes are being built to be more energy efficient than ever before, thanks to a growing green building movement and increasingly strict building codes, the age of existing dwellings continues to present challenges. More than 40 percent of the housing stock in the United States was built before 1969 and simply wouldn’t stand up to today’s standards. Yet, much can be done to help homeowners improve their building envelope to reduce energy use and increase efficiency.

Try these five simple measures to maximize the energy efficiency of your home: 1. Seal cracks and gaps around your home’s windows, doors, and vents. These can be a considerable source of energy loss, allowing conditioned air to escape and unconditioned air to infiltrate your home, placing stress on your furnace and air conditioner in the process. An easy DIY solution is to caulk around windows, doors, and vents, and install or replace worn weatherstripping. An average home loses up to 30 percent of its energy through air leaks, so sealing your home is a worthwhile exercise.

2. Top up or replace old insulation in your attic. A poorly insulated attic is a primary source of energy loss. Also, over time, some types of insulation can settle and compact,

allowing heat to escape through gaps. Experts recommend installing a dimensionally stable batt insulation like a Roxul product called Comfortbatt. Aim for an r-value of at least R-50, or a depth of roughly 16 inches.

3. Insulate basement headers.

Uninsulated basement headers are common, especially in older homes.

They can act as a gateway for heated air to escape. Fixing the problem is fast and easy. Simply cut Comfortbatt stone wool insulation to fit the cavity and compress into place.

Doing this throughout your basement will prevent heat loss and can potentially save hundreds of dollars each year.

4. Switch to LED light bulbs. Some have a lifespan of up to 10 years, and are 80 to 90 percent more efficient than incandescent bulbs. They are generally more environmentally friendly than CFLs and safer since they produce less heat. The return on investment is excellent, as LED bulbs often pay for themselves through energy savings within the first year.

5. Consider a home energy audit.

This will help you identify and target specific problematic areas of energy loss. A professional home energy audit will also provide a list of recommended solutions to help you maximize your energy-efficiency.

Improving your home’s energy efficiency can help save money, keep you more comfortable, reduce pollution, and prevent global warming.

Updating Your Wiring?

Know the Risks.

A carefully planned home renovation will increase the value of your home and reduce costly mistakes. Most homeowners do not have the training or experience needed to safely perform home electrical work.

Manitoba Hydro wants to help keep you safe. Before undertaking a do-it-yourself project, consider the following tips to make sure you do so safely: - Know your own skill level. Arrange for a licensed electrician to upgrade your wiring or any part of your electrical system.

- Before any work is done, ensure power to the circuit is shut off using the circuit breaker in the main service panel.

- Unplug any lamps or appliances before repairing them.

- Never touch plumbing or gas pipes when working on electrical projects.

Using power tools is a necessary part of many home renovations. When using a power tool, be sure you are doing so safely. Here are some easy ways to stay safe with power tools: - Many power tools use a significant amount of electricity. Use ground fault circuit inter-

rupters (GFCIs) with power tools to protect against electric shock.

- Never use power tools near live wires or water pipes.

- Use extreme caution when cutting or drilling into walls where electrical wires or water pipes could be hidden.

- If your power tool trips a safety device, take the tool to an accredited repair shop.

- Use power tools with insulated grips.

In addition to these important rules of thumb, the proper gear will help ensure you avoid injury while working on your home’s electrical equipment. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like safety goggles, hearing protection, a dust mask, protective and insulated gloves, a hard hat and safety shoes whenever you’re working on a home renovation project.

For more information about electrical safety, visit Manitoba Hydro’s website at hydro.mb.ca.

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October 2016

Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!

Dawson Trail Dispatch