Dawson Trail Dispatch June 2013

Summer in the City Offers Excitement and Sales

Chamber of Commerce Committee Members Joel Hartung, Matt Wieler, Keith Unger, Chair Geoff Dilts and Kyla Murray display one of the Sales in the City banners that will fly city-wide during Summer in the City.

The City of Steinbach is gearing up for their biggest festival of the year when Summer in the City kicks off for the June 13, 14 and 15 celebrations.

For three exciting days, the streets in Steinbach will be bustling with sales, music and tons of entertainment and fun.

Shoppers will be treated to fantastic city-wide deals during the three-day event as participating businesses remind shoppers why “It’s Worth The Trip!” to Steinbach.

Steinbach Credit Union will host their annual Pancake Breakfast on the morning of June 13 as a kick-off to Sales in the City.

When it comes to music, the Summer in the City organizing committee has three major acts to take to the stage. Crystal Hildebrandt, Summer in the City Chairperson, said that

this year the classic rock concert will take place the same night as the classic car show instead of on Saturday night like other years.

“We think this is a pretty awesome idea,” stated Hildebrandt.

Taking the stage Friday night, June 14 is Myles Goodwyn and April Wine. April Wine is a Canadian rock band formed in 1969. They have had several Gold and Platinum albums with hits like ‘Sign of the Gypsy Queen’ and ‘Roller’.

Juno and Canadian Country Music Award winner Gord Bamford will take the stage Saturday night, June 15.

Bamford has written and recorded songs with some of Nashville’s greatest stars including Reba McEntire, Brooks & Dunn and George Strait. Recent hits include ‘My Daughter’s Father’ and ‘Blame it on that Red Dress’.

Music and Extreme Thrills Highlight Niverville Fair On the second weekend of June, the population of the Town of Niverville is expected to swell by a few thousand people when the Olde Tyme Country Fair takes over the community’s Main Street.

Starting Friday June 7, the community of Niverville will be transformed into a tourists’ playground when the twoday festival kicks off with old time favourites such as the midway, show and shine, and country street market.

Activities geared to attract the younger crowd include motocross, high dive and trampoline, which is expected to be big, draws but the biggest change is the Friday night music line up.

Spokesperson Jeff Stott explained that eight bands from in and around Niverville would be taking the stage before the blackout fireworks take place.

“This is a new idea this year to give local bands an opportunity to present themselves in this manner,” stated Stott. “There is a lot of excitement about this, especially among the youth.”

Saturday, June 8 kicks off with a community pancake breakfast, followed by an open-air farmers market, which is expected to retain the crowds as Manitoba’s artisans (crafters) and traders fill the street with booths to sell their wares.

A parade will take place at noon, followed by an afternoon full of activities ranging from a petting zoo, dance performances and live bands. For the first time ever three big names will be taking the stage.

Get ready to kick up your heels when Country Music Legend Charlie Major hits the stage at 8 pm. Major has recorded six studio albums and released more than 20 singles including ‘I do it for the Money’ and ‘Too Much love’.

Canadian Country Music Award (CCMA) winner Aaron Pritchett will take over the show at 10 pm. Over his career, he has earned many accolades and awards including a CCMA for Independent Male Artist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year in 2007 for the anthem, ‘Hold My Beer’.

“This is a big show for a small town,” Stott said. He noted that this year there will be more emphasis on extreme thrills with the return of X-treme Motocross and a new act from Montreal that involves divers leaping from 88 feet in the air into a shallow pool.

For a complete schedule and maps, check nivervillefair.com.

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June 2013

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Local Women Recognized as Women of Distinction Four women from the southeast YWCA Winnipeg’s Women of were among 86 women recognized Distinction Awards gala, which took during the 37th annual YMCA- place on May 1.

The Women of Distinction Awards honour Manitoba women who have made a unique and exemplary contribution to the development of others in the community.

Nomination for the prestigious Women of Distinction Awards is itself an honour.

The RM of La Broquerie council is Lynette Ens of Landmark took moving forward with the expansion home the Prairie Award of Promise of the local lagoon. Council recently for being a role model to other met with JR Cousin Consultants to young women. The Prairie Award of discuss expansion options and a Promise recognizes a graduating feasibility study in preparation to grade 12 student outside of expand the La Broquerie lagoon.

Winnipeg who has demonstrated According to council, JR Cousins scholastic achievement and shows submitted a report to council that promise of becoming a Woman of outlines the steps needed to move Distinction. An accomplished towards expanding the community honour student, Ens is an active lagoon. volunteer on several committees in “Adequate time is required to her school, volunteering in the prepare and submit environmental community and in her church. She action plans, geotechnical and received a $2,000 scholarship. topographic site investigations, Erin Rempel, from Niverville, was land purchase, establish borrowing also nominated for the Prairie Award bylaws and initiate design works,” of Promise. While maintaining a 95 noted council. “It is extremely percent average she volunteers important to have the necessary both at school and in the documentation in order to apply for community. The Niverville federal and provincial funding.”

Collegiate student is also a member Council agreed to proceed with the of the school’s athletic teams. expansion process as outlined in the Mona Stott, also from Niverville, study, namely land acquisition and was nominated for Volunteerism, establishing borrowing by-laws.

La Broquerie Looks at Lagoon Expansion

Advocacy and Community Enhancement by creating, participating in, or adopting programs that meet community needs.

Stott was recognized for her dedication in raising awareness through Imagine Mental Health to combat the stigma of suicide and mental illness after her adult son committed suicide. Besides raising $100,000 for the organization, she Lynette Ens, recipient of the Prairie Award of Erin Rempel, nominee for Prairie Award of Promise. travels to communities, speaks about Promise. mental health topics, and teaches workshops on suicide prevention.

Dawson Trail Dispatch lead writer Marianne Curtis from Ile Des Chênes was recognized in the category of Public Awareness and Communications for her work as a freelance journalist and author. Since the publication of her best-selling memoir Finding Gloria, Curtis has become an active spokesperson against bullying, mental health issues, social injustice and child abuse.

Women of Distinction Awards were created by the Winnipeg YWCA in 1977 to honour the contributions and achievements of women. The winners were chosen out of 86 nominees and the awards were handed out in front of more than 900 guests at the Winnipeg Mona Stott, nominee for Volunteerism, Marianne Curtis, nominee for Public Convention Centre.

Awareness and Communications.

Advocacy and Community Enhancement.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

June 2013

3

Landmark Elementary Opens Greenhouse Students at Landmark Elementary recently celebrated the grand opening of a greenhouse outside their school that was built to encourage sustainability and serve as an outdoor classroom.

The project, under the guidance of teacher Russ Dirks, is expected to help students learn various skills, help reduce waste and encourage composting in the school division.

In full operation, the project is expected to reduce waste by 50 percent.

“We want to use this greenhouse as a kind of living lab,” explained Dirks. “We want to use it as an outdoor classroom, it is a place where we can do measuring, check out water temperatures with our solar heat system and all kinds of scientific inquiry can happen in the greenhouse, even if there are no plants.”

Dirks added that it is also about growing food while teaching math, science and social studies. Each class will learn how to grow and take care of plants. Local seniors and students from Landmark Collegiate will also be invited to teach the students about plants and proper gardening techniques. During the summer, students will care for their plants by transplanting them in their home gardens. The plants will be harvested in the fall and sold within the community.

Education Minister Nancy Allen was on hand for the opening.

“This is education for sustainable development,” stated Allen. “It is about reducing waste and taking care of our planet; this project is so phenomenal that I believe it is going to be a model for other schools in Hanover School Division and across the province.”

The greenhouse uses a solar heater that was partially built by the students and has a solar panel for electricity.

The project was made possible with the help of a number of community partners, the provincial government and the Hanover School Division.

Education Minister Nancy Allan cuts the ribbon for the official opening of the greenhouse at Landmark Elementary School.

Some of the seedlings planted this spring by Landmark Elementary students.

New Daycare Opens in Ste. Agathe

Daycare Director Lorraine Milan cuts the ribbon with the help of Ecole Ste. Agathe Principal Lucille Daubet-Mitchell, DSFM Trustee Denis Clement, Roxanne Gendreau and Patrick Saurette with the fundraising committee, while preschool students Mya Dupius and Callie Delorme hold the ribbon.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis

community’s first subsidized daycare centre.

Parents living in Ste. Agathe now On June 1, over 100 people came have access to local daycare services out to celebrate the official grand after the recent opening of the opening of Le Coin Magique.

Attached to Ecole Ste. Agathe the new centre opens up 47 much needed licensed daycare spaces; 8 infant, 24 pre-school and 15 for the after-school program.

Ecole Ste. Agathe Principal Lucille Daubet-Mitchell is thrilled to have the children as part of the student body. Without the daycare centre, the school population consists of about 100 students from kindergarten to grade nine.

“This makes sense for us as a school. I get to know the kids and when they come into my part of the school we are that much further ahead,” Daubet-Mitchell explained.

“We get to know the kids, they participate in some school activities and they can integrate into the school effortlessly when they start kindergarten.”

Daycare Director Lorraine Milan added that the facility would never have been built if it had not been for the dedicated work of a number of volunteers.

“So many people helped. The entire community pitched in either

with fundraising or other ways and it all happened so fast,” stated Milan. “This is not just a daycare, this is our daycare.”

Michel Boucher, ViceChairperson of the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine (DSFM) said that division likes the model of having daycares as part of the school, especially in rural areas.

“This will help keep the school alive. These kids will grow up and move into the classrooms and make room for new children,” Boucher noted. “I believe that having a

daycare attached to the school is a very logical way to do things.”

The DSFM also operates daycares in several other schools including Îledes-Chênes, Lorette, Ste. Anne and La Broquerie.

Le Coin Magique has a staff of 11 pre-school teachers. The site itself consists of 4,700 square feet of daycare space plus a three-season gazebo.

The project cost about $1.35 million, which was raised through government grants, donations and several community fundraising activities.

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June 2013

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Short on Ethics and Soft on Crime The ongoing Senate fiasco is amazing in so many ways, incompetence, fraudulent stupidity, brazen arrogance, stonewalling and perceived larcenous entitlement by so many who should know better. The total Senate has taken a hit from which it will probably never recover, at least for the near future. Our history and culture is damaged and maybe gone, courtesy of fraudulent political appointees made worse by political cover up which reaches into the PM’s office.

The expense accounts of Senator Duffy, $90,000 in housing allowance, were laughably ineligible. His per diem expenses are in some cases triple dipping. His excuses are “clerical errors” or mistakes by “rookie staff”.

Upon receiving $90,000 from the PM’s Chief of Staff (that in itself is incredible) he, Senator Duffy, paid it back to the Senate committee and then refused to cooperate any longer with the same Senate committee. With these actions, he seemingly admits to fraud and keeps the original $90,000.

In the years 2011 and 2012, he claimed living expenses for 49 days when he was actually out campaigning for the Conservatives. You have to possess a bent or crooked disposition to justify these as Ottawa living expenses or Senate expenses. If you or I were caught doing the same shenanigans we would at least have the decency of coming up with better excuses but in all probability would still do jail time.

If we look closely at this ongoing saga, we find lack of credibility in the Senate Internal Economy Committee investigating their own members’ expense accounts. It took them two or three shots to recognize this as excessively criminal in nature. Then Nigel Wright, the then PM’s Chief of Staff, loans or gives Senator Duffy a $90,000 cheque from his own account. This incident begs so many questions of morality and legality including if it was done on his own volition. That one leaves me shaking my head at the magnitude of this dumb amateurish attempt of subterfuge. You can bet your last nickel that from on high came the operative directions “plausible deniability”. This phrase has a Prime Ministerial ring to it, don’t you think?

ATV Event was a Team Effort Dear Editor: I first want to send out a huge thank you from all of us at the Southeast ATV Association, to all the volunteers, sponsors and organizations that helped make our first annual ATV Awareness a great success.

I have heard lots of good feedback on the event and many have asked to come back for next year’s event. The date for next year will be May 24, 2014. We are inviting everyone to join us again and please let us know if you can attend next year’s event. I would also like to hear from all of you, with any suggestions on making next year’s event even bigger and better. Looking forward to next year.

Again, “THANK YOU” and have a safe riding season.

Our next event is a fundraiser social slated for Monday, September 30.

Thank You, Gary Gebhardt President of Southeast ATV Association

Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.

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

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

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Senator Wallin has $300,000 in expenses in question. Her saga has yet to be aired properly in the media. Senator Duffy is still too much fun, but eventually questions will be asked and answers will hardly be forthcoming. Perhaps Senator Duffy’s dog ate the relevant receipts. But, maintaining residences in Saskatchewan, Toronto, New York and Ottawa must be stressful.

There are other Senators who have expense accounts which are likely stretching the boundaries of credibility and, with the total Senate body feeling the heat, it is possible they will come up with better managing parameters. Not as good as they should be but let’s forgive them as many of them are far removed from reality.

Now the RCMP have been asked to ride to the rescue. Garry Clement, a 30-year veteran of the RCMP, and I are sceptical of an objective investigation. I fear political interference. In 2011, the Government mandated all RCMP communications be cleared through the office of Public Safety Minister Vic Toews. If and when we get a result and it is paraphrased by “After an exhausting investigation....” We will then recognize political interference and wonder in amazement about “tough on crime”.

There is a sentiment afoot by a probable majority that would wish to abolish this Oasis of Patronage, but alas, it is so tied in the Canadian Constitution reality that waving a wand is hardly sufficient to satisfy the critics.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of Parliament in total is lacking to say the least. So a sober second look, if it were possible to attain, might not be a bad idea.

This latest batch of patronage appointees has the Prime Minister’s imprint on them.

At the very least, it is obvious they were elevated to the ermine tinged high office for their fund raising expertise only. Perhaps somehow depth of character should be easier for a Prime Minister to recognize. It leaves us to think that perhaps character was not sought.

So Much For Democratic At one time, the “D” in NDP stood for Democratic. It’s hard to know what it stands for anymore because what has been happening in the past few months under Premier Greg Selinger and his NDP government is anything but democratic.

It started with the announcement in the budget that the NDP are going to increase the Retail Sales Tax (more commonly called the PST) by one point from 7 percent to 8 percent on July 1. They announced at the same time that they were going to scrap the law that requires a referendum before the PST can be increased.

Since the mid-1990’s, The Balanced Budget and Taxpayer Accountability Act, has contained a requirement that the provincial government must get approval of Manitobans by way of a referendum before increasing major taxes like the PST. It’s hard to believe that a Party that has the world “Democratic” in its name would remove a right for citizens to have a vote.

But, it gets even worse. The NDP said shortly after the budget that they intend to increase the PST on July 1 even if the law that says there needs to be a referendum hasn’t passed in the Manitoba Legislature. Both the Premier and his Minister of Finance have said that even if on July 1 the law still says you need a referendum to increase the PST, they are going to ignore it and increase it anyway.

In fact, he tried the same trick with the Assiniboia Downs. He told them that he was going to remove funds to Assiniboia Downs raised through a levy on wagering at the track. That ended up in court and a Judge told the NDP government that they had to follow the law and couldn’t remove the funding under the current law.

In fact, the messy dispute with Assiniboia Downs has led to a civil lawsuit being filed against the government.

So in response, the NDP have brought forward legislation that will prevent and nullify these lawsuits against the government. Instead of defending their actions, they are simply going to wipe away people’s rights in court.

In just the past few months, the NDP has stripped the right for a referendum away from Manitobans, vowed to bring in a tax increase even if the law says they can’t, had their hands slapped in court by a judge, and brought in legislation to do away with lawsuits against them.

If there is any part of the New “Democratic” Party that still values the principle of democracy, it’s very hard to find these days.

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

I look forward to hearing from you.

Impaired Driver Arrested On Friday, May 17 at approximately 10:30 pm, the Steinbach RCMP attended a twovehicle collision on Hwy 52 at Keating Rd in Steinbach.

Investigation determined that a

pickup truck carrying two adult males was traveling south off Keating Rd and proceeded across Hwy 52 in the path of a westbound travelling car. The small car was driven by an adult male with two youths in the vehicle.

All occupants in both vehicles were treated at the scene by emergency personnel and one youth was transported to the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach for minor injuries.

The driver of the pickup truck was arrested at the scene by police for Impaired Operation of a Motor

Vehicle. Subsequent breathe samples provided by the driver resulted in readings more than double the legal limit. An adult male is facing charges of Impaired Driving, Driving over .08 under the Highway Traffic Act. Alcohol and driver inattention were factors in this collision. The investigation is ongoing.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

NDP Refuse PST Referendum There is one thing that has become abundantly clear in the Manitoba Legislature recently; the NDP does not like to listen to Manitobans. On several issues, the NDP have shown their true colours and believe that as the government, they are entitled to do whatever they want.

The NDP recently announced that they are going to raise the PST to eight percent. There is presently a law on the books called the Balanced Budget, Debt Repayment and Taxpayer Protection Act, which prevents any government from raising the PST without a referendum. The PST will be increased on July 1st if the NDP get their way. They are in the process of amending this legislation, however if it is not amended by July 1st, they will have broken the law. Our leader, Brian Pallister, and the rest of the PC Caucus are committed to having the House sit well into July, to hold the NDP accountable for breaking the law.

The NDP have not been clear as to why the PST should be increased. First, they said it was for flood protection, when in reality only 0.18 percent of their budget over their time in office has been spent on that cause. They then said it was to pay for infrastructure.

The NDP now said it is to protect front line services, which were not in jeopardy in the first place. The actual reason for this increase is to create a slush fund, to help them reannounce projects and to make campaign style announcements. Don’t be fooled, these announcements are nothing more than an attempt to buy your vote.

Secondly, the NDP introduced Bill 33 in the Legislature, to force municipalities to amalgamate with another municipality. The NDP wants this process complete before the scheduled municipal elections in 2014. Not only is this timeline unrealistic, the NDP believes that many of these municipalities are “dysfunctional”, and need to grow in size so they can save money and reduce operating costs. The NDP need to be reminded that municipal governments actually balance their budgets every year. The only government that is dysfunctional in this province is the NDP. At the recent NDP convention, the Premier would not divulge whether his government would raise taxes once again if they fail to bring the budget back in to balance. His Chief of Staff made it clear that raising the PST would be the main plank of their campaign platform, saying that the next election campaign has begun. I am proud to be a part of a party that will reverse the PST increase if elected to office. We will do this in our first term.

We believe that the differences between our party and theirs are quite clear.

If you have any questions or comments, my email address is dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca; I can be reached at my Legislative Office at (204) 9454339, or my Constituency Office at (204) 424-5406.

Piney Border Crossing to Pilot a Remote Port Entry In 2015, the Piney border crossing will be part of a remote traveller processing pilot project.

The change being implemented by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will begin April 2015 as part of the Small and Remote Ports of Entry Initiative under the Beyond the Border Action Plan.

According to Provencher MP Vic Toews, the change will test the viability and potential benefits of expanding remote traveller processing as a way to increase efficiency while maintaining border integrity and access to border services.

“This pilot site will maintain high security standards while improving access to after-hours border services for legitimate travellers between Canada and the United States,” explained Toews.

During the pilot, travellers arriving at the port of entry after hours would be processed by a border services officer located at a remote processing centre through a two-way audio and one-way video kiosk. Cameras would be installed to provide the border services officer with the ability to see the traveller and the vehicle.

The Piney port of entry was chosen as a pilot site as it was deemed low-risk due to little commercial traffic and low traveller volumes processed on a daily basis. The layout of the port of entry is such that remote technology could be installed to provide the required security measures.

June 2013

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Canada’s Success on the World Stage As a nation, Canada enjoys a well-earned place on the world stage. Recognized for our strong economic leadership and handling of the economy, our Government understands the importance of building on our economic record to help create jobs, growth and longterm prosperity for Canadians.

Recently, the CEO of Cisco Systems - a world leader in telecommunications - said, “The easiest place in the world to do business is Canada. Their Prime Minister gets it. They make it easy for me to invest and do acquisitions there; they have a great education program and they have a great immigration policy.”

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Harper, our economy has created over 950,000 net new jobs since July 2009, one of the best records in the G7.

According to the World Economic Forum, we have had the soundest banks in the world for four straight years, while Forbes Magazine has said we are the best country for businesses to grow and create jobs. We have maintained our strong triple-A credit ratings (the highest possible) from three of the world’s top rating agencies - Fitch, Moody’s, and Standard and Poor’s. Canadian businesses enjoy the lowest overall tax rate on new business investment in the G7, while our net debt-to-GDP ratio remains the lowest in the G7, by far.

The Chicago Tribune says, “Canada is on a roll” and “experiencing a gold-rush-style energy boom.” It goes on to point out that Canada is, on a per capita basis, one of the most prosperous nations in the world, being led by Prime Minister Harper who has “pursued an ambitious trade agenda.”

We are in fact one of the world’s great trading nations, with one in three Canadian jobs directly or indirectly dependent on exports. To create more jobs and opportunities for Canadians, our Conservative Government signed new trade agreements with nine countries - Panama, Jordan, Colombia, Peru, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and Honduras - and we are in negotiations with many more. We have taken significant steps forward in trade relations with China, including securing Approved Destination Status designation and an agreement, which provides protection to Canadian investors.

Since 2006, Canada has emerged as one of the world’s top-performing industrialized countries. However, with the fragile state of global recovery, we must continue to secure Canada’s recovery. That is why we are focussed on jobs and economic growth, and ensuring Canada’s economic advantage remains strong today and into the long-term.

Please feel free to contact my office if you have any concerns or issues you would like to discuss. You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204-326-9889.

You may write my office at 8 - 227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, by fax at 204346-9874 or by e-mail at toewsv1@parl.gc.ca.

PST Hike is All NDP Dear Editor: Members of the provincial NDP government have made numerous accusations against the Government of Canada as they try to deflect blame for their decision to hike the PST to 8%. They have inaccurately suggested that federal transfer payments have been reduced.

Make no mistake, federal support to the provinces has reached historic levels at $62B. Federal support to Manitoba specifically, is at an all-time high at $3.4B, which is up 21% from the previous Liberal government.

This long-term support helps ensure the Manitoba provincial government has the resources needed to provide essential public services including health care, postsecondary education and other social services.

The Harper Government has shown it is possible to protect and grow the economy, reduce taxes and provide record levels of support to the provinces, all while lowering the deficit to ensure the recovery isn’t on the backs of the taxpayer. Our Government’s low-tax agenda has been successful where others have faltered and we will continue on those successes with a consistent, steady hand.

Vic Toews Member of Parliament for Provencher

More Than Just News!

June 2013

6

Barn Destroyed and Cattle Perish On Saturday, May 4 at around 9:24 am, the Steinbach RCMP was dispatched to a barn fire at a dairy farm in the RM of Ste. Anne. When police

arrived, the Steinbach Fire department was on the scene; however, the barn was a total loss. While some of the livestock were saved, 103 milking cattle perished in the fire.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Office of the Fire Commissioner. No one was injured because of the fire.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

East Braintree Garden Party Celebrates Coronation

teacher’s cottage.”

For Feilberg, who has deep roots in the area, the heritage site is a labour of love. When she was younger she attended school in the one room classroom and many of the artefacts onsite come from her own family collection.

“When the school closed down we did not want it to go to waste. It was always my mother’s dream to turn it into a museum. She passed away before she could [do it] so I am doing what she would have wanted to do, which is preserve our heritage,” explained Feilberg.

Most of the items have been donated but many of the artefacts onsite are from her own family collection. There are even some historical pieces from her grandfather who was a warden on a prison work camp that was once in the area before it relocated to Headingly.

The Midwinter School Heritage Museum is used for many things including a drop-in-centre, as well as a community place where school groups, bus tours, weddings, memorials and potlucks take place.

Most recently a farmers’ market was set up during the summer.

Midwinter School Heritage Site is run entirely by volunteers and open by appointment for tours year round. During the summer regular hours are Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm in July and August.

E.coli and Coliform bacteria.

Over the summer months, the Seine-Rat River Conservation District has prescheduled water collection dates so residents can plan for their sample collection despite a busy summer season.

Water testing through this program is available to all residents living within the conservation districts boundaries and will cost $8.03 per sample.

Water bottles can be picked up in advance, however samples must be taken on the day of the drop-off and

submitted with a completed form prior to 11 am on the collection dates.

Collection dates are slated for June 20, July 18 and August 15.

Bottles can be picked up and dropped off at a number of locations including the Seine-Rat River Conservation Office in La Broquerie, the RM’s of Ste. Anne, Hanover, De Salaberry, Tache, Ritchot, Stuartburn and Piney offices, along with the Town of Niverville office.

Contact Seine-Rat River Conservation at 204-424-5845 for more information.

Steinbach 55 Plus at the Pat Porter Centre offers programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for older adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come and pay us a visit and consider participating in some of our programs.

For more information drop by the Centre, Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm, call 204-320-4600 or online steinbach55plus.com.

Membership at Steinbach 55 Plus is only $25 per year due in January of each year for those 55 years of age and older. Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice in business meetings, voting rights, and eligibility Margaret Feilberg, President of the Midwinter Heritage, channels Camilla Parker Bowles, the to serve on the board or committees.

Duchess of Cornwall at the 60th Anniversary of the Queen’s coronation at East Braintree.

Monthly Programs and Up and Coming Events:

June Birthday Celebrations: Wednesday, June 5 at 2 pm - Come celebrate with us! Bring your friends! Guest pay $2 for coffee and cake.

Volunteer Appreciation Day: Thursday, June 13 at 4 pm. Hosted by Steinbach 55 Plus, Community Resources, Circle of Friends and Steinbach Meals Programs. Volunteers and community members, please join us for freshly barbequed pulled pork on a bun, salad, and dessert. Special announcements will be made! We would like to extend an invitation to our members who normally join us for our potluck every month, as this event will take the place of our regular potluck. Entertainment through the entire day. Contact 204-320-4600 to reserve. This BBQ is being put on by the staff at Steinbach 55 Plus as a small token of our appreciation for the thousands of hours volunteers put in each year to ensure that our programs and services thrive! Thank you for all that you do!!!!

Mature Drivers Workshop: Tuesday, June 18 from 9 am – 12 pm. Safety Service Manitoba in partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance is offering a workshop to experienced drivers who wish to brush up on their skills to enhance their driving performance at no cost. All mature drivers welcome.

PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO TESTING INVOLVED AND THIS WORKSHOP WILL NOT AFFECT YOUR DRIVERS LICENCE IN ANY WAY. Evaluations will be conducted for those who want to sign up from 1 - 3 pm. Contact 204-320-4600 to register (15 people required for the workshop to run).

Bus Trip to Warroad Casino: Thursday, June 20. Bus will pick you up at Steinbach 55 Plus between 9:30 am and 10 am and bring you back in the evening. Cost is $35 for members and $40 for non-members. Call to reserve your spot. Payment deadline Friday, June 14.

Foot Care on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 9 am -3 pm.

Run by a professional foot care nurse. Cost $30. Bring your own towel.

Contact the centre to book an appointment.

Computer Labs are 1 hour long and available every other Wednesday morning from 9 am - noon. Next available appointment dates are Wednesdays, June 12 and June 26.

Pot Luck Supper on the second Thursday of every month at 6 pm, meat and beverages provided. Cost $5 ea. Bring a casserole, salad or desert.

Contact the centre to reserve a seat.

Beltone Hearing on the third Friday of each month. Contact 1-800-6612653 for appointment.

Brain Injury Support Group on the last Monday of the month at 7 pm.

Parkinson’s Support Group on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 1 pm.

Weekly Programs: Monday

Photos by Marianne Curtis

by Marianne Curtis On June 2, the Midwinter Heritage Association in East Braintree hosted a fundraising Coronation Garden Party in celebration of the 60 th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s coronation.

Margaret Feilberg, President of the Midwinter Heritage Association, explained that the event was one of many fundraisers taking place at the location to help raise $10,000 to buy a small cottage that was once used as a teacherage on the site.

“It is now being sold at a reasonable cost and funds are needed to buy it and have it moved from its present site in Hadashville to be placed back on its original foundation,” explained Feilberg. “It would be lost forever if Midwinter Heritage did not act now to raise funds to buy back the former Seth Thomas, Akasha and Amethyst Lord and Manford and Kadence Klassen get a taste of what classes would have been like back when their great grandparents went to school at Midwinter Heritage in East Braintree.

Well Water Testing Made Easier

9:30 - 10:30 am Fitness (with instructor) 12 - 4:30 pm Drop-in Pool 1 - 4:30 pm Model Trains The Seine-Rat River Conservation 1 pm Canasta District is assisting residents in eight 7 pm Tai Chi municipalities with having their well Tuesday 9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends Adult Day Program water tested for the presence of 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool Wednesday 10 am Tai Chi 10:30 am Choir Practice 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Cribbage 1:30 pm Floor curling 7 pm Old Time Country Band Practice Thursday 9:30 - 10:30 am Fitness Class (with instructor) 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Whist Friday 9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends Adult Day Program 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $5. Call 204-3204605 by 9 am to reserve your meal for that day. Purchase your meal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menus available at the office or in the newsletter. Bring a friend.

Computer Lab from Monday to Friday, 9 am - 12 pm and 1 - 4 pm. Cost $1.

Lessons with Alex Cupples every other Wednesday from 9 am - 12 pm. Call the Centre for more information and to book an appointment.

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

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Discussions Held on Grande Pointe Development On May 28, Grande Pointe residents met with representatives from the RM of Ritchot and Morris-McDonald Planning district to discuss future development plans for the community.

Over the past month, AECOM and Manitoba Local Government planners have met with residents of Grande Pointe, interested developers and various government agencies, as well as the RM of Ritchot Mayor and Council in order look at the issues involved in the future development of Grande Pointe.

“Based on these consultations we have prepared two alternatives for the Grande Pointe Secondary Plan with proposed land uses, road patterns, open spaces, development phasing, and notes on servicing requirements and cost sharing,” representatives of AECOM told those gathered.

Residents of Grande Pointe would like to retain the rural residential feel of their community. The Concerned Citizens of Grande Pointe provided the municipality with survey results from over 50 respondents, which emphasized the desire for a rural lifestyle based on large lots with private wells and septic fields.

Manitoba Conservation has expressed some concern about septic fields in the Grande Pointe area given the deep heavy clay soils. They have suggested that future development be required to use septic tanks providing additional treatment of effluent before it is

June 2013

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“Mumbler!”

Residents in Grand Pointe have been given two proposed development plans to consider for their community, one that allows 2,077 dwellings and one that allows 1,800.

discharged to fields.

At the same time, the community understands that agricultural land within the Grande Pointe Dike will gradually be developed for residential and some enterprise uses. Residents also wanted amenities such as public green space along the Seine River and a safe bicycle and pedestrian trail loop.

As a result, AECOM presented residents with two plans that address different approaches to split services between smaller lots and un-serviced larger rural residential development.

Alternative A divides the community into three rural residential zones and an enterprise zone.

Zone 1 would allow new un-serviced development that would produce larger (up to 3 acre) lots and leave green space.

This would be available for immediate

development. Zone 2 allows for serviced lots of 0.7 acre each and would require existing lots to phase in connections to underground servicing, if desired. Zone 3 would consist of one-third of an acre lots with open space and retention ponds.

Alternative B would allow for larger un-serviced 3.5-acre lots to the north and an area of smaller lots to the south.

There is also no provision for gradual servicing of existing lots within the next 20 years.

At the end of the day, if approved, Alternative A allows 2,077 new dwellings and Alternative B permits 1,800 dwellings.

Grande Pointe residents were given an extensive questionnaire to take home and were given until the middle of June to respond.

Have you ever told your children something and almost immediately regretted it? I have done so on several occasions.

Nothing too serious or earth shattering, just phrases or quotes that I’ve heard or read and thought were funny.

Figuring that my children would enjoy hearing them, I’ve often passed them on. Most times, it all works out for the good but sometimes I wish that I hadn’t passed it on.

One quote that comes to my mind came from the movie, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”. In the movie, there is Willy Wonka (played by Johnny Depp) and he is giving a tour of his chocolate factory to five children and five adults. Throughout the movie one boy, whose name is Mike Tevee, mentions different things to Willy Wonka that Willy is not too interested in hearing. You see, Mike’s problem is that he’s a bit of a smarty-pants bordering on being rude.

He tells Willy Wonka about different things that he’s doing wrong and how some of the things that he sees in the factory are stupid or not scientific. What’s funny about this is that whenever Mike is done talking, Willy Wonka replies with, “MUMBLER! Seriously, I can’t understand a word you’re saying!” Willy changes it up each time but that’s the gist of it.

Sadly, I explained the situation between Mike and Willy Wonka and mentioned to them how he uses the word mumbler. They thought that it was hilarious and started to use it. When I say, use it, I mean all the time! The second anyone tries to say something, “”Mumbler!”

I try and have a nice friendly chat with my children and I end up getting slapped upside the head with a “Mumbler!”

Thankfully, I’ve managed to curb their usage of the word “Mumbler!” and now only get it occasionally. So I guess that while I did regret teaching it to them at the time, with a bit of guidance on when to and not to use the word, it has become a funny phrase for our family.

On the other hand, I’m pretty sure that if I ever teach my children the line from Austin Powers (Yeah, Baby!) and teach them to say it with that accent that he uses; my wife might just start burning my meals. I think I’ll play it safe and keep that phrase to my self… I like my meals just the way they are.

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

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More Than Just News!

June 2013

Summer Reading Club

Every summer kids can improve their reading skills and reduce summer learning loss while having fun.

Kids’ ages 4 to 12, who register with the Summer Reading Club, receive a poster, stickers and an activity book, all free as a part of their reading kit. Prizes Once again, Bibliothèque Ste. Anne are awarded throughout the summer.

Library is gearing up for the Summer Children can pick up their reading kit Reading Club. The Theme for this year’s when they register in person or call 422program is “Go”.

9958. Sign up starts Friday, June 28.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Grant Funding Available for Seniors Projects

By Marianne Curtis

Fun Fair and Pre-Registration Fun Fair and Pre-Registration Day on Thursday, June 6, 3 -8 pm at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre. Have a blast, and get 10 percent Fall programs! Sign up for classes in Creative Wellness, Visual Arts, Drama and Musical Theatre, Dance and Martial Arts, Cooking and Languages. Last day for 10 percent off Summer Arts Day Camps. Meet the instructors! Brochures available for music lessons – piano, guitar, theory, voice, flute, accordion. FREE BBQ! Bouncer, Face painting, and more.

XCOMPANY FREE workshops FREE workshops on June 6 at the Arts Centre. XCOMPANY Physical Arts Training School will be offering free dance and martial arts workshops including Hop ‘n’ Bop, Hip Hop, Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Hawaiian Hula, Breakdance and Zumba for all ages! Just try it!

NEW Fall Classes!

FUSION Musical Theatre, Photography for Moms, French4Kids, Cartooning/ Illustration, Mixed Media, Pilates – Pre/Post Natal, On the Ball, Basic Core and Fusion, Adapted Yoga, Intermediate Spanish.

Also for Fall Kids and Teens! Art Adventure, Art X-Travaganza, Clay Creators, Backyard Theatre Company, Digital Photography, Kids in the Kitchen.

Adults 16+! Zumba, Gentle Hatha Flow Yoga, Yin Yoga, Social Dance, Absolute Abstract painting, Exploring Acrylics, Digital Photography, French, Spanish, Creative Cooking and more.

Arts for Tots Ages 3 - 5 will love the Arts for Tots Preschool Program. Early childhood education through Drama, Dance, Music, Crafts and Culture. Join Miss Treena and Miss Pam for the 2013-14 year. Limited spaces – call now!

FREE Yoga!

Our treat. Join Bettianne on Tuesdays, June 11, 18 and 25 at 7:15 pm at the Centre for Yoga – Ying and Yang. Your chance to try it out - experienced yoga enthusiasts also welcome! Call 346-1077, limited numbers accepted.

Come for LUNCH! Community Charity BBQ at the Summer in the City Festival on Friday, June 14 at G&E Homes Main Stage compound between 11 am - 1:30 pm. A minimum donation of $4 for Pork on a bun and a drink, or $2 for a hot dog and a drink. Enjoy the Summer in the City opening ceremonies while you eat, and performances by the Stonybrook Middle School jazz band, Mitchell Middle School choir, and many other local and guest artists! Proceeds go to SAC’s NEW After School Art Program. Thanks to our sponsors Country Meat Deli, Crossroads Convenience and Sobeys.

Businesses – treat your staff! Pre-Order your Pork on a Bun and Hotdogs for June 14! Business owners call the Arts Council to pre-order your meals.

BIGGEST 50/50 Draw The BIGGEST 50/50 draw in Steinbach! Look for our sellers at the Summer in the City Festival, June 14 - 15, or find our booth in the Artists in the City tent.

Win BIG in two jackpot draws, one each night! Winners will be posted on our website.

Summer in the City Youth! Don’t miss the ART ZONE at Summer in the City. Play foosball, check out the youth lounge, try Door D’Art, tag our Funky Fences and more.

Kids! Water games, crafts, face painting and more – all at the ART ZONE in the G&E Homes Main Stage compound.

Artists in the City – our local artists are hitting the street! Find them in the Artists in the City Courtyard at the Summer in the City Festival. Lots to see or purchase – plus, relax at our bistro tables!

Concerts in the Park FREE Concerts in the Park this June! Bring your lawn chair and the whole family to KR Barkman Park on Main Street in Steinbach – just look for the gazebo. On Thursday, June 6 see May Flowers in June (Acoustic Trio) at 7 pm and Jordan St Cyr (Roots /Rock) at 8 pm. Schedule at steinbachartscouncil.ca.

Thanks to Barkman Concrete Foundation.

Now in the Hall Gallery On now in the Hall Gallery – ‘30’ – a Digital Poster exhibit. On until June 21st.

You can expect to see cutting edge Photoshop effects and original digital illustrations.

There are literally thirty posters – that’s thirty reasons to come check it out!

Coming up – Our Creative Community exhibit will be running June 26 – Aug 30.

Art Stream Open House Enjoy local art, live music and good coffee June 28th at the Loewen Green Art Scene at 306 Reimer Ave. Artists! If you would like to display your art, please drop off on June 25 from 7 - 9 pm. Artworks will be on display. View Loewen Green Art Scene gallery hours online.

View all our events on www.steinbachartscouncil.ca.

Provencher MP Vic Toews is encouraging organizations that work to promote the well-being of Canada’s seniors to apply for federal funding.

Organizations are eligible to receive federal grants and contributions funding up to $25,000 per year per organization. Projects must be led by senior or if inspired by seniors, seniors must play a meaningful role in the project such as in planning and/or delivery of the project and must address one or more of the program’s five objectives in volunteering, mentoring, expanding awareness of elder abuse, social participation and capital assistance.

“The New Horizons for Seniors Program assists seniors and seniors’ organizations in contributing to their communities through volunteerism and mentorship,” said Toews. “By investing in these community projects our government is improving the quality of life for Canadian seniors.”

Applicants are encouraged to work with other partners in their community to identify local needs and to design projects that respond to these needs. The NHSP seeks to fund programs or projects that

Last month 11 seniors groups from around the region were granted funding through the New Horizons Seniors program including the Grunthal’s New Horizon Community Centre who received $24,000.

benefit a broad clientele, present an innovative and creative approach to address a community concern, and strive to have a lasting impact on communities, involve collaboration and partnerships and use resources efficiently and effectively.

For each call for proposals for community-based funding under the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP), funding priorities are set to ensure that the unique needs of seniors and communities in different regions are recognized and supported. Priorities have been set in consultation with the New Horizons for Seniors Program Regional Committee in each province or territory.

In Manitoba, regional priorities will be given to projects that benefit from increasing the volunteer contribution of seniors/elders and others in local initiatives that contribute to social, cultural or economic development in the community. Some project examples are promoting an expanded volunteer base, promoting volunteerism in child and youth

activities, assisting family caregivers, engaging seniors in social participation and volunteering by increasing seniors’ involvement in community or senior organizations.

Funding is available for a project only once and cannot be renewed.

If a project will be on going, consideration should be given to what resources you will need in order to continue after NHSP funding ends. Funding requests that exceed $25,000 will be rejected.

Last month, 11 seniors groups in the region received a combined $227,651 in funding through the New Horizons Seniors Program. Seniors groups in Tolstoi, Piney, La Broquerie, Ste. Anne, South Junction, Ste. Agathe, Ste. Adolphe, St. Malo, Grunthal, Steinbach and Niverville are using the money to make improvements or renovate current meeting places.

The application deadline for community-based projects is July 5.

For more information about the call for proposals, visit hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/ seniors/funding/community.

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Ile des Chênes Man Conquers Everest

By Marianne Curtis In the middle of May Dean Carriere, from Ile des Chênes, became the first Manitoban to climb all seven of the world’s highest summits after he successfully challenged the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest.

Carriere’s adventure began in Nepal on March 28 when he set out on a journey that was expected to take about two months. The actual climb took less time but due to high altitudes, climbers are forced to spend a few weeks in base-camps along the way to give their bodies a chance to acclimate.

Mount Everest, the tallest mountain the in world, stands 8,850 metres high and it took two months of patience before he could finally

reach the top. On May 19 at 7 am, Carriere proudly displayed the Canadian Flag at the top of the world.

“The line-ups were terrible where we would walk five feet and then stop for 2-3 minutes before walking again,” Carriere recalled on his blog.

“People were having a difficult time climbing this beast of a mountain.

At one point I had enough and informed, my Sherpa we had to start passing people. Kilu (a fellow climber) and I climbed up the famous rocky face and at 7 am we were celebrating on the summit.”

After completing his feat, it took only four and a half hours to return to camp 4. The following day Carriere and his teammates were able to make it all the way down to camp 2 where he took a helicopter to Kathmandu.

“I have lost approximately 30 pounds in muscle but I will deal with that. Life is good,” Carriere posted from Kathmandu. “I took my first real shower in 52 days and it felt great. I also slept in a bed with covers and a pillow and that felt even better.”

Carriere, a self-employed construction worker, has spent the last three years preparing and challenging six of the highest mountains in the world. He has successfully challenged Aconcagua, South America (6,935 metres); Denali, Alaska (6,194 metres); Kilimanjaro, Africa (5,895

The Animal in Me! I bet you think this article is all about how ‘wild and crazy’ I am when I am carried away at a party or sports event. HA! I sure fooled you! This article is actually about a very serious subject. It is all about parasites that you may have that make YOU their host. Ninety percent of the people in the world are or have been infected with parasites.

A parasite is any organism that lives in, with or off another organism. Humans play host to more than 100 kinds of parasites!! They are transmitted by contact, in water, by air, or touching soil. If you walk barefoot, eat food prepared by infected handlers, inhale dust, play with pets (animals pass parasites), work in barns, play or lay in the sand at the beach, plant a garden, etc., you are being exposed to these little critters. Ticks, mosquitoes and flies spread parasites, too.

I once believed that only poor countries had people with parasites, and I thought that those people entering and returning from Asia and Africa carried them. NOT TRUE. We all travel, share bacteria, viruses and parasites from all over the globe.

We are all exposed to many forms of parasites. Since most of you have access to a computer, please go to You Tube and watch the many videos about human parasites (You will need a strong stomach).

Parasites can infest virtually every part of the human body including the abdomen, blood, buttocks, chest, diaphragm, digestive tract, respiratory tract, feet, hands, genitals, liver, muscles, skin, and upper arms.

Surf the net, go to nvcentre.com and read up on the many, many symptoms of having parasites. Read everything by scrolling down to the very bottom on drflorascommonparasitecleanse.com.

You will be shocked. If you see all the symptoms, and have been battling unexplainable physical issues that the medical helpers have been unable to solve or treat, you might get rid of it with a parasite cleanse. After all, our pets are treated in spring and again in fall (as recommended by vets) so why are we not cleansing ourselves of these pests. A parasite cleanse is easy, can’t harm you, but can prove beneficial (See parasiteinfectionsyahoo).

In North America, our diets rarely contain many foods that remove parasites.

Most of us don’t eat enough high fibre that acts like brushes to sweep the colon.

Oh, and if you eat organic fruits and vegetables you should be cleaning them in a peroxide wash to remove the parasites on the plants. But, the best maintenance to remain ‘parasite free’ is to cleanse twice a year. Be proactive with your own health. Read, surf the net, talk with health advocates, learn what and how to treat yourself. (Always check with a doctor or pharmacist if you are on any medication before taking herbal cleanses).

Your body and your health are your own responsibility. I hope everyone takes this info to heart and does a parasite cleanse. (Herbal tablets and Black walnut husk at any health food store or drug store.) After a cleanse I noticed higher energy and fewer aches and pains. I felt a difference, more alert, and slept better. And, believe me, after doing this research and watching all the videos, I will be faithful at doing a parasite cleanse twice a year and killing the “Animal in Me”!

Stay healthy folks!

Raylene Snow is the owner of Raylene’s Wellness Spa 5 km south of Ste. Anne on Hwy 210S toward Giroux.

June 2013

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metres); Carstensz Pyramid, was the first climb all 14 summits in making the first solo ascent of Indonesia (4,884 metres), Elbrus, the world that are higher than 8,000 Mount Everest without Russia (5,642 metres) and most metres. He is most renowned for supplementary oxygen. recently Vinson Massif, Antarctica (4,894 metres).

Now that Carriere has completed his climb he has become a member of a unique group of about 350 climbers around the world that have successfully climbed all seven of the world’s highest mountains.

One of the highlights of the trip was a meeting with Reinhold Messner, a famous mountaineer who

Friends of the Park Need Help in St. Malo For the first time in a few years, there was no Festival of Friends on the February long weekend.

Friends of the Park President, Leo Roch, said that the reason there was no festival this year was that board members need more help.

“If you are wondering why there was no festival, the simple answer is that board members are running out of energy,” explained Roch. “Our committee needs the community’s input on how to proceed for the coming years.”

A public meeting is taking place toward the end of June in St. Malo to discuss the subject. One of the questions that will be asked is if a winter festival is still a community priority.

“If not a festival as in prior years, then we need new ideas,” Roch added. Dean Carriere proudly waves the Canadian Flag at the top of Mount Everest on May 19.

“Hopefully we can get a good discussion going to what the community wants to see down in the park.”

He hopes that a different approach to promoting winter activities in St. Malo Provincial Park can be decided or if there is a demand for winter long activities instead.

“We would like to have a skating rink on the lake next winter and reopen the cross country ski trails,” Roch added.

“But we need to know what people want and hopefully get more volunteers.

The Friends of the Park formed about eight years ago with plans to turn St. Malo Provincial Park into a four-season park, not just a place for summer fun.

Over the years, activities were added during the winter months, including ice fishing. Groomed cross-country ski trails and tubing or sledding hill were also onsite. But, the highlight was the addition of the Festival of Friends that took place in conjunction with the Festival du Voyageur.

The Friends of the Park meeting is taking place Monday, June 24 at the Chalet Moulin starting at 7 pm.

Anyone wishing to contribute is encouraged to contact Roch at leoroch@xplornet.com or by mail at Box 456, St. Malo, R0A 1T0.

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More Than Just News!

June 2013

Dawson Trail Dispatch

St. Labre 200 to Aid Three Groups

Eastman Recreation Program Gets Funding

By Marianne Curtis Under-privileged youth in the region will benefit from $15,000 in funding recently received by Recreation Opportunities for Children (ROC) Eastman from Manitoba Community Services Council.

ROC Eastman, Inc. is a not-forprofit organization that works to connect at-risk children and youth to positive recreation and leisure opportunities.

According to Moni Loewen, Recreation Services Specialist with the organization, the funding will help continue the work already underway by the organization.

“The money will be used to support staff time, spent with the families to learn what interests the child, how the activity fits into the family schedule and is the activity meeting the child’s hopes,” explained Loewen. “Without those key supports, ROC Eastman would not be the success it is today!”

Loewen explained that the organization is different from others because of how they work.

“We are different from other recreation and sports organizations because we meet regularly with parents and children in their home to discover what each child is

interested in and make a realistic plan,” explained Loewen. “Then we stay in contact to see if the child is enjoying the activity and to make sure it’s working in the family schedule.”

Not only does the group take on a hands-on approach but they also provide more than financial support for sports and physical activities.

“We go one step further and provide financial assistance for registration fees, equipment and fuel for a huge variety of recreation activities,” Loewen continued.

Activities include photography, music or singing lessons, gardening, dog obedience classes, dance, Kung Fu, Special Olympics, clay making, swimming lessons, soccer, creative writing and more.

On average, Recreation Opportunities for Children Eastman works with about 30 children per year in communities including St. Malo, St. Pierre-Jolys, Steinbach, Niverville, Blumenort, La Broquerie, Pine Falls and Beausejour.

Manitoba Community Services Council Inc. (MCSC) allocates funds and/or bingo events to non profit, volunteer community service, social service, recreation, and healthrelated organizations in Manitoba.

The council is funded by the Province of Manitoba and receives

bingo dollars from Manitoba Lotteries Corporation. MCSC operates as an arms-length volunteer organization responsible for the allocation of dollars and/or bingo events to qualifying groups.

For more information on ROC Eastman, please visit roceastman.ca.

Three non-profit groups in the region have been named as the beneficiaries of the 5th annual St. Labre 200.

The annual event will not take place until July, but teams and organizations are already ready to roll. In March, organizers of the St. Labre 200 invited nonprofit organizations to apply for funds through their “Giving Back to the Community Campaign”.

Proceeds from this year’s event will be divided between Recreation Opportunities for Children Eastman, Today House in Steinbach and the Community Resource Council in Piney.

Recreation Opportunities for Children supports children and youth living in the Eastman Region of Manitoba, helping them to connect to recreation and leisure opportunities. Today House provides immediate, overnight emergency shelter in a safe house for individuals who are homeless or street involved. The Community Resource Council promotes and assists with programs in the RM of Piney that are vital for seniors and people with disabilities.

The St. Labre 200 includes many activities and profits from the community supper, concessions, merchandise, community supper, team auction, onsite donation jar and a raffle are what make it possible for organizers to Give Back to the Community.

The main event is a 24-hour go-cart build-off followed by a 200-lap race (50 miles). Other activities on the grounds include an excavator and skid steer rodeo, bounce castles, R/C race cars, rubber boot toss, live bands, Red Bomb Fireworks, a Manitoba Arm Wrestling Association sanctioned tournament and many others.

All 14 go-cart spots have been filled for this year’s race. Teams who have entered include Marchand West, SouthEastern Farm Equipment, Red Bearings, Hitrac, Team Awesome, Bandits, Moteur Busters, Moonshadow Holsteins, Funks Toyota, Thibaultville Thunder, Florze Boys, Penn-Lite Lightning, Camp Perdue, and Pist’n Broke.

This year’s St. Labre 200 will take place Friday, July 12 to Sunday July 14. There is no admission cost at the gate.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Summer Festivals Get Grants

The federal government recently announced that a number of smaller festivals taking place in Provencher will receive grants.

The four festivals supported are Cheyenne Days in St. Agathe ($14,800), Frog Follies in St. PierreSeveral festivals taking place over Jolys ($25,800), Hanover the summer months in southeast Agricultural Fair in Grunthal communities are getting a little extra ($12,700), and Summer in the City in Steinbach ($18,500). funding to help with their events.

Ste. Agathe’s Cheyenne Days organizing committee, along with Emerson MLA Cliff Graydon, were personally on hand to receive a Federal grant from Provencher MP Vic Toews for this year’s festival.

Snowbirds – Filing Deadline June 15!

Do you travel to the U.S. for the winter for long periods of time? If so, you may need to file an exception to filing a U.S. tax return that is due June 15 each year.

If you don’t want to face some possible penalties, you may need to file a form called the Closer Connection Exception Statement for Aliens, IRS form 8840.

Many people think that if you spend less than 180 days in the U.S., you do not need to file. But, that is not completely correct. It depends on how many days you spent in the U.S. in the past three years. If you spent more than 121 days in each of the past three years (2012, 2011, and 2010) you should be filing for an exception.

The exception acknowledges that you had a significant presence in the U.S., but that you have closer ties to Canada and therefore do not need to file an actual tax return with the IRS. Here’s how it works: first calculate the number of days you were in the U.S. in 2012 (for some snowbirds that is often January to April and sometimes November and December). Then calculate the number of days for 2011 and for 2010.

Remember to include any additional days you went on short trips for gambling and shopping!

You need to file for an exception if you are considered to have a “substantial presence” in the U.S. in the past three years. If it exceeds 182 days, you need to file.

The actual formula works like this: you include all the days in 2012, one third of the days in 2011 and one sixth of the number of days in 2010.

You are near the 183 days if you spent more than 121 days in each of the three years (2012 – 121 days; 2011 is 40 days (1/3 of 121) and 2010 is 20 days (1/6 of 121). That totals 181 and you likely have to file. Remember the magic number is 183 days.

Why has this not been a big deal in the past? Well, it was harder for the U.S. government to keep track of you. Remember we could cross the border with just our driver’s licenses and birth certificates. Now we need our passports. Don’t you think they are keeping track of when you came into the country and when you leave?

So, if you think you might qualify as having a “substantial presence” in the U.S., better get that form completed. You can find it on the U.S. taxation (IRS) website: irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8840.pdf If you don’t have access to the internet, or you need some help, give me a call or drop by my office.

And another quick reminder to the self employed and their spouses, you have until June 15 to file your personal income tax return without facing any penalties.

If you have an amount owing, interest has been accruing since May 1, but at the least, the penalties can be avoided by filing by June 15. Actually, the deadline this year is Monday June 17 because the 15th falls on a Saturday. That’s good, because I likely need a couple more days in June to get everyone’s done including my own!

Even if you don’t have everything to complete your income taxes, file it as an incomplete tax return to avoid the penalties. We can always do an adjustment later.

Anni Markmann is a tax professional and owner of Ste Anne Tax Service, working, living, and volunteering in our community. Contact Anni at 204-422-6631 or annimarkmann@mts.net or 36 Dawson Road in Ste. Anne.

More Than Just News!

June 2013

11

EPIC de St. Malo Presents “Heroes”

By Marianne Curtis It was a standing room only crowd, when over 250 people came out to St. Malo for the EPIC de St. Malo Inc. – SMILE of St. Malo Inc.’s art program presentation of “Heroes”.

The dance company, which is comprised of 24 intellectually and physically disabled participants, received a standing ovation when they performed at the Ecole St. Malo on May 5.

Works of Beautiful Minds is an art program offered in St. Malo that includes dance, theatre, music and visual arts specifically designed for the Special Needs participants at EPIC de St. Malo Inc. – SMILE of St. Malo Inc. The program is made possible through a grant from the Manitoba Arts Council.

Alix Babiak, Director and St. Malo’s EPIC de St. Malo Inc. – SMILE of St. Malo Inc.’s art program put on a stunning Coordinator of the program, said that performance before a full house in St. Malo at the beginning of May. the group did an amazing job with writing and performing before a full house.

“They are the real Heroes and they all did a great job,” stated Babiak.

The production was introduced by a movie that Kent Suss from Manitoba Theatre for Young People made with the participants and Mark Cameron who did an amazing job with musical direction.

“Heroes” was written and performed by the participants with Kent Suss, Principal of the School of Manitoba Theatre for Young People, who directed the production and has made a short movie of the actors. Mark Cameron, who is the musical director, also acted while Babiak choreographed the performance along with Sharon Stearns a playwright and actor out of BC. The EPIC de St. Malo Inc. – SMILE of St. Malo Inc. is already looking forward to next season as the program has received grant approval from the Manitoba Arts Council for next year’s production.

The St. Malo group is a non-profit organization that is committed to advocating and promoting inclusion in the community and surrounding areas for individuals with intellectual disabilities. They provide support, opportunities and resources to develop independence so that they may each live their unique lives as they so choose.

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June 2013

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

Richer Catholic Church Celebrates Centennial

June 2013

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Run for Mom Supports Anna’s House

By Marianne Curtis On June 23, the Enfant-Jésus Heritage Site committee invites everyone to Richer to help celebrate the Richer Catholic Church’s centennial and unveil a memorial in honour of Father Jean Baptiste Thibault.

On behalf of the Enfant-Jésus Heritage Site committee, Patricia Gendreau explains the importance of the monument.

“This is a very important project because Father Thibault is part of Richer’s history,” said Gendreau. “The community was named after him.”

In 1862, Father Thibault, under the advice of Archbishop Provencher, was sent to oversee sawmill operations on Prosper Nault’s land in Richer. The wood was needed for the building of the cathedral of Saint Boniface (Red River Settlement). In 1901, the name of Oak Ridge (Coteau des Chênes) was changed to Thibaultville in his honour. Upon the arrival of the post office, the name was changed to Richer.

To celebrate this occasion the heritage committee has organized a centennial celebration which includes a bilingual Catholic Mass presided by Archbishop Albert LeGatt.

This will be the only the fourth mass to take place in the church in the past 17 years.

After the mass, Archbishop LeGatt will lead the assembly to the cemetery for the unveiling and blessing of the Fr. Jean-Baptiste Thibault Commemorative Monument. There will also be the blessing of a second monument in honour of the 72 Sisters of St. Joseph of St. Hyacinthe, who over a period of 57 years, came to Richer to teach children in rural Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario.

A fundraising banquet is being held on June 23 in Richer. As there is a limited amount of space, tickets may be purchased by contacting Yvonne at 204-422-9369 or Marcel at 204-4226880.

A week later church doors will open again to welcome visitors to explore the exhibition of

Enfant-Jésus Church as it looked in 1913. On June 23, the community of Richer will be celebrating 100 years with a special ceremony at the Enfant-Jésus Heritage Site.

the Thibaultville Museum and Archives as well as the religious objects, vestments and the architecture of the Roman style Catholic Church.

Steinbach’s Fire Chief Steps Down After twelve years at the head of the Steinbach Fire Department Mark Loewen has decided to step down as Fire Chief. The announcement came as no surprise to the City of Steinbach council as he has been candid for a while about leaving and gaining some well-deserved free time.

“It’s time for some new blood,” stated Loewen. “I’ll still stay on as part of the department, but not in a management role.”

Loewen says that things have changed a lot since he joined the department 35 years ago as a volunteer.

“I caught him (the fire Chief at that time) at a sweet moment and he took me on and sent me to Fire College,” Loewen recalled. He notes that this is not how things are done today.

“I have enjoyed serving the community; I’ve enjoyed all of it,” Loewen continued. He added that he especially liked the camaraderie that came with being a member of the department, which has more than doubled since he joined.

Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen said that the City of Steinbach is appreciative of the dedication to the community that Loewen showed as a key member of the community’s fire department.

“Mark Loewen has been an excellent leader for the city fire department,” stated Goertzen. “His many years of service have made our community safer and has created a fire department that is an example for the rest of the province.”

Loewen will maintain the position of chief until a suitable replacement is found and duties can be transitioned.

The fire chief’s role has always been part-time, but with Steinbach’s continued growth, council is evaluating the possibility of making the new chief full time. The position is expected to be filled by early September.

On Mother’s Day, over 800 runners participated in this year’s Run for Mom in support of Anna’s House.

On May 12, the 6th annual Run for Mom took place in Steinbach. Over the past six years, the annual event has established itself as one of the province’s highest quality running events in Manitoba.

The purpose of the event is to build and support the running community in the southeast, promote healthy lifestyle choices for individuals and families and support local charities, specifically Anna’s House, in Steinbach.

This year a record-breaking 800 runners and walkers registered for the event. Last year over 600 people participated in the event.

Event organizer Greg Penner stressed that while the event is a fundraiser, actual fundraising is not required.

“Huge congratulations to those who finished,” stated Penner. “The growth and support that we have seen since we started six years ago has been phenomenal.”

The Run for Mom is designed for participants of all ages and abilities. There is a 5 km run/walk, 10 km run, team race and kids run.

“About 50 kids ran this year and it was the cutest thing to see them run. They had little bibs and to just see them sprinting across the finish line was pretty exciting,” Penner recalled.

Proceeds from the entry fees will be given to Anna’s House.

Anna’s House is a family resource centre that is located in Steinbach but is dedicated to serving expectant mothers and families with children up to the age of 5.

To date over $30,000 has been raised by the Run for Mom and donated to this cause.

This year, in addition to supporting Anna’s House, the group will be donating some funds to the City of Steinbach to help improve the trails throughout the community.

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More Than Just News!

June 2013

Marchand Loses Community Store to Devastating Fire

By Marianne Curtis The community of Marchand was left reeling at the beginning of the month when a devastating fire destroyed the town’s only grocery store and the community post office. An early morning fire on May 7 completely levelled the structure despite the valiant efforts of the La Broquerie Fire Department.

Fire Chief Alain Nadeau told the media that the RCMP responded to the blaze first after they received a call about an intrusion alarm. When police arrived, flames were shooting out the back of the building and they called the fire department.

“When fire fighters arrived, the store was fully involved; we started an offensive attack but we got caught in a flash over so we had to back off,” explained Nadeau. Efforts then turned to keep the fire from spreading to nearby fuel tanks and a nearby outbuilding.

Justice, Mercy and Grace An early morning fire on May 7 reduced the Marchand Grocery store to a pile of rubble.

An electrician had been working on the structure earlier in the day.

The cause of the blaze was later determined to be electrical.

Damage is estimated at about $500,000.

Wilfred Chabot, who sold the store nearly two years ago after owning it for 30 years, said the loss is a huge one for the community.

“To see it all gone like that overnight, it’s heartbreaking,” he said. “It’s the only business we have in town for gas and groceries.”

Current owner, Rob Demasson, purchased the Marchand Store from Chabot in the fall of 2011.

In the past year, Demasson had made a number of improvements to the store that also serves as a major social hub in the community. Along with renovations, there was also a significant increase in the type of items sold as part of his dream to

open an old-fashioned country store.

“The store has become part of our family. Since we bought it we’ve gotten to know the community better and to my family it is very important,” Demasson said.

Now that the shock has worn off, Demasson is grateful for the community support, which has him looking toward the future instead of feeling defeated.

“The community has been really rallying around us and they feel bad for us but they are also pushing us to rebuild and to have this service up and running for them again.”

Demasson said that he is looking at setting up a temporary trailer onsite to get back to selling gas, milk and whatever the community needs.

He does intend on rebuilding once insurance matters are settled, he added.

Pig Barn Voyeur Faces June Sentencing

By Marianne Curtis On June 25, a Steinbach area man will be sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of voyeurism after a bizarre case involving a fellow employee.

Earlier in May 48-year-old Glen Brandt, the Manager of a hog barn in Landmark appeared in Steinbach court to face allegations after admitting that he had masturbated into a female coworkers underwear in an attempt to impregnate her.

“I invaded your privacy and the sacredness of marriage,” Brandt told the victim during court proceedings. He further blamed his actions on “twisted physiology” and “spinelessness”.

The offences against the woman, who cannot be named to protect her identity, took place more than five years ago.

However, the matter only became known in 2012 after the victim’s pastor informed her that Brandt had “sinned against her.”

The court heard how Brandt admitted to his minister that he had an infatuation and took to masturbating on her underwear while she was showering at the end of her shift. After-shift showers are common practice in the hog industry to prevent the spread of disease as workers move between barns.

Brandt further admitted to his minister that he kept track of the victim’s menstrual cycle and hoped that he would get her pregnant, stated Crown attorney Mitchell Lavitt.

The victim did get pregnant approximately nine months later but DNA testing confirmed that her husband was the father.

“Day and night I worried about what the tests would show,” stated the woman in a victim impact statement that was read aloud in court. “It was excruciating and intensely stressful.”

Brandt also admitted to spying on the

Dawson Trail Dispatch

woman several times while she showered and even took photos of her on his cell phone. His wife later found the videos on the family’s home computer.

The court also heard how Darnell Plett, the Pastor of Prairie Grove EMC near Lorette, counselled Brandt for several months before telling the victim what was going on. The victim alleged that church members discouraged her from taking the matter to the police and made her to feel like she was to blame for what happened.

“I have lost trust in leaders of the church because Glen was a leader in that church and yet I was abused,” the woman said. “I feel very angry knowing the pastor of the church

Saint-JeanBaptiste Days in La Broquerie On June 22 and 23, the community of La Broquerie will be hosting their 116th annual Jean Baptiste Days.

The weekend will kick off with a free community pancake breakfast, slow pitch tournament, paintball and a Saturday night social featuring Small Town Limits, Plan “D” and Ya Ketchose. On Sunday there will be a community mass followed by a parade on Main St. with children’s games, baseball, a dunk tank, a petting zoo and inflatable games.

To round out the yearly festival, French music and cuisine will be offered to attendees during both days.

knew and did nothing to protect me. I thought I was safe for six years but now I know I was not.”

The crown is recommending a twoyear conditional sentence while the defence is suggesting a period of probation and community service.

Brandt will be sentenced in Steinbach on June 25.

Plett, who brought the issue to light, stepped down from his position as Minister of Prairie Grove EMC in early 2012.

Question: Many people seem to get confused trying to understand in their minds the justice, mercy and grace of God. Questions often arise as to how God deals with man while balancing these three qualities.

Answer: First, let’s get a basic understanding of each term and then we’ll attempt to illustrate how our Heavenly Father blends the three together as He deals with His children. Justice is getting what you deserve. If you speed down the highway in your vehicle and a police officer gives you a ticket, you deserved the penalty and justice says you must pay your dues. The Bible says all of us have broken God’s laws by sinning, and the wages of sin is eternal death (separation from God and heaven). So, justice from God would send all of us to hell. But, then there’s the mercy of God. Mercy is getting less than you deserve. God in His love and mercy has provided a way out for us. He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die and shed His Blood as justice or perfect payment for all our sins. If we accept this as God’s plan of salvation, then instead of justice, we receive mercy (everlasting life). But, then God has grace for us. Grace is getting more than you deserve. Although we don’t deserve the blessings and goodness of God, He delights in showering us with them anyway.

An older preacher friend of mine integrated the three terms together with this illustration. A Father made it very clear to his son that if he disobeyed one more time, he would have to scrub the hardwood floor five times on his hands and knees. Of course, the inevitable happened, so the Father proceeded to carry out the punishment.

But, after only four floor-scrubbings, which included many sore aching muscles and chafed fingers and knees, Dad allowed his son to stop.

They prayed together and hugged. Then Dad took his boy to a nearby ice-cream parlour. While sitting at the table enjoying their ice cream, Dad looked at his boy and said, “Son, the five floor-scrubbings I promised were justice, but withholding one was mercy, and the ice cream you are enjoying so much is grace.

I am so grateful that even though God in Heaven is a just, holy and righteous God, He also provides mercy and grace to each of us through His Son, Jesus Christ. I pray that you have experienced God’s mercy and grace.

David Millar has been involved with pastoral work for the past 22 years and is currently pastoring First Baptist Church in Steinbach. Any questions are welcomed and can be sent to dmillar@nlis.ca.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

June 2013

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Seventy Times Seven Forgiveness is a huge issue that everyday people and everyday Christians have wrestled with from the very beginning of human history. The Bible is no exception and has some very powerful insights into our on -going struggle to have a forgiving spirit and “hold no grudge” attitude.

Even Jesus’ disciples faced struggles with this issue; otherwise why would Peter have asked Jesus the question …

Matthew 18:21-22 … 21) Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” 22) Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.

(NKJ) Perhaps Jesus is teaching us what is meant by forgiving those who have done hurtful things to us. I must admit that there have been times when I wished that Peter never asked Christ that question. Now it is up to me to try to find the true meaning of forgiveness. That is tough to do because it usually means I have to change my way of thinking.

The gospel of Luke chapter 22 is necessary read for us to get a better or deeper understanding of the meaning of forgiveness.

Jesus is coming to grips with what I believe is his human side.

Satan is attacking Christ … Luke 22:41-44 … 41) and He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, 42) saying, “Father, if it is your will, take this cup away from me; nevertheless not my will, but yours, be done.” 43) Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. 44) And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. (NKJ) On the Mount of Olives, Jesus went to fight a lonely battle that only He could fight. At the age of 33 He knew that He was about to die on a cross. I am sure that He had seen people put to death by crucifixion before this night. It is possible that fears pierced His heart; but the love He had in His heart for lost humanity was more powerful than the fear of the cross.

This moment in time was the turning point in the life of Jesus.

There is no doubt it would have been possible for Christ to say no to the cross. He also knew that sorrow was the price that He had to pay for the love He had in His heart for us. The salvation of the world was in His hands and so He sweated it out in that lonely garden; He talked with God and said, “Your will be done.” He won the battle and came out the victor.

It is hard not to feel the anguish, the torture and grief that Jesus endured. I kind of think I would be asking, “Why me?

What have I done? Why should I forgive them if they do not even acknowledge me? Why, Lord, do you want me to go to the cross and die for them?” But, then look at verse 43 ... An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.

Today the Holy Spirit will come to strengthen us when we cry out to God to have the power to forgive and not to hold a grudge even if the person who has wronged us thinks that there is no need on his part to make things right.

How do I respond when someone comes to seek forgiveness?

How do I respond when I have been told not to try to reach out to a person with a bitter attitude? How do I behave when I am blamed for something that I did not do? How do I respond when everyone else wants to do things exactly opposite from what I want to do? Do I just go my stubborn way regardless of the cost to others? Or, do I wait there with open arms to help those who are being taken advantage of? Many questions, but no easy answers.

Scripture, in fact, teaches that the one offering forgiveness should take the initiative towards restoration. But, again, that is when I say to myself, enough is enough. I shall not forgive this person. However, my conscience pokes me and the thought comes to my mind, what did Jesus do? He went to the cross so that I, a sinner, could have eternal life … never to remember my sin … after I sought His forgiveness. That means full forgiveness is demonstrative, it’s unreserved, there are no strings attached. It is not simply something we say, it is something we do. With the help of the Holy Spirit we, too, can forgive. We, too, can have a hold-no-grudge attitude, never forgetting that we must forgive because Christ forgave us.

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

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More Than Just News!

June 2013

Richer FD Ready for Bush Fires

Wi-Fi Hotspots Residents Petition Hanover Trustees on “Anti-Bully” Bill Available at

By Marianne Curtis Falcon Beach

Visitors to Falcon Beach can now remain connected after the province recently connected several Wi-Fi Hotspots in the community.

Conservation and Water Stewardship Minister Gord Mackintosh said the province made the connections in response to a growing demand by the public to remain connected.

“We know an increasing number of Manitobans use mobile devices to get online, especially young people, and we are responding,” said Mackintosh. “I want to enhance their camping experience whether they are using social networks to check in and post pictures of themselves in our beautifully diverse provincial parks, check weather forecasts or do other online errands while enjoying time away.”

The Richer Fire Department is ready for brush fire season after they recently purchased a To gain access to the Wi-Fi Hotspots, trailer and side-by-side to help fire fighters get into areas they normally would not be able to campers will receive passwords and reach. coverage maps when they check into campground offices, he added.

By Marianne Curtis

The Richer Fire Department is geared up for grass and brush fire season now that it has added a new trailer and 4-wheeler side-by-side to their arsenal.

Don McDougall, Captain of the Richer Fire Department, said that it took a little creativity on the part of the Fire Chief, but the department has managed to custom create an invaluable piece of firefighting equipment. The new trailer and 4-wheeler allows the fire fighters to move water and equipment into areas otherwise inaccessible.

“It (the trailer) is meant for camping excursions to keep your gear dry but I figured that if it can keep water out, then why not in, so we turned it into a minitanker,” explained McDougall. After some modifications, the $1,800 trailer is now capable of carrying 150 gallons of water, hoses, a pump and water backpacks.

“Similar units made for firefighting sell but at a much higher cost. It was all done by our Fire Chief,” added McDougall. The trailer was put through its paces last year when the department assisted the RM of Tache during a big fire.

“Its first trial run was last year and we got a lot of compliments,” he added. “It proved to be a major asset as a quick response unit and we saved many homes and buildings last year alone.”

While the trailer paid for itself last year, what was needed for utmost efficiency was a means to pull it, so this year the Richer Fire Department purchased a Kawasaki 750 side-by-side.

“It can transport a crew of four, which makes a great attack team. We can literally drive and shoot or, if need be, it is fitted with over 600 feet of hose to get right into deep bush,” McDougall added. “It is also capable of drafting out of ponds or ditches if we are in remote areas and need to refill.”

McDougall added that the department is grateful to the RM of Ste. Anne for their assistance by supplying the department with the right tools for the job.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Niverville Fire Chief Announces Retirement After 26 years on the Town of Niverville Fire Department, long time Fire Chief Ferd Klassen is retiring.

Klassen joined the department in 1988 and became the fire chief 16 years ago.

“My business is growing and I need to focus on that for awhile,” Klassen explained. “I also have young kids at home so there are things I want to do with them.”

A replacement has not been chosen but Klassen noted there are several qualified candidates already within the department.

“I have already made a few recommendations,” Klassen said. He expects his replacement to be named in the next few months.

Klassen will officially retire on December 31.

Dog Adoption Fair Huge Success Twenty-two pet rescue organizations throughout the province converged on Niverville on May 11 when the second annual Niverville Pet Adoption Fair took place.

Hundreds of people came out to check out the vast variety of rescued dogs and organizer Barry Piasta was very pleased with the response from both the public and the rescues in attendance.

“Last year we had about 12 rescues and this year we have 22, so it has gotten a lot bigger,” stated Piasta. “It was very busy. Everywhere I looked someone was talking to someone.” For the first time several cat rescues were also on location.

With over 100 dogs available for adoption, exact numbers on pets who found homes is unavailable.

“Each shelter has their own criteria for adoption so the process can sometimes take a few days,” Piasta noted.

The Niverville Adoption Fair is also an opportunity for fun and education. Displays and booths were set up from different dog care suppliers, pet photographers, trainers, groomers and veterinarians.

The Niverville Adoption Fair was all about connecting rescued animals with loving families.

Over the past few weeks, a group of concerned citizens from the Steinbach area has been petitioning the Hanover School Division to take a stand against the proposed Bill 18. To date nearly 3,000 people have contacted the Hanover School Division Board of Trustees to demand that the Hanover School Division oppose Bill 18 “as written”.

Bill 18, otherwise known as the Bullying Bill, has caused endless controversy in the region since it surfaced about five months ago. The bill amends The Public Schools Act in the areas of bullying and respect for human diversity. While the premise of the bill is to promote inclusion, one portion is upsetting many people within community of Steinbach.

The legislation is to accomplish a safe school environment as being inclusive of all pupils, including student activities and organizations that use the name “gaystraight alliance”.

Community church groups have been actively petitioning the province, school divisions and elected officials in all levels of government. Faith based groups argue that this bill will force them to allow groups such as the gay-straight alliance to set up within schools despite their faith based belief system which opposes such relationships.

Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen encourages his constituents to have their voices heard.

“There are different kinds of student groups that could have faith perspectives that are different than the individual school. Independent schools have the right to ensure that they can determine the kinds of activities forming in their schools,” Goertzen stated.

The Hanover School Division Superintendent, Randy Hildebrand said that his division would not get involved in a theological debate on what is going on in the community and this was just one side of the issue.

Once in effect, Bill 18 would apply to fully funded public and partially funded schools, such as Steinbach Christian High School. Funded independent schools receive 50 percent of their funding from the government and the rest through tuition and donations. There are 14,000 students in Manitoba that attend publicly funded independent schools, most of which are faith-based.

The group behind the signature campaign hopes that the Hanover School Division will make a more public stance on the subject at the June 4 Board of Trustees meeting.

The results of the, “Petition to Oppose Bill 18 as Written” has been emailed to each of the nine Hanover School Board Trustees. There are Niverville (107), Landmark (36), Bothwell (58), Blumenort (175), Kleefeld (134), Mitchell (218), Steinbach (1,678), Grunthal (370), for a total of 2,776 signatures. Not included in the total are 32 signatures from other areas.

If the petition is to be presented to the Legislative Assembly, an MLA must be a sponsor since citizens may not petition the House directly. The MLA designated to present the petition to the Legislative Assembly must sign at the top corner the front page and not as an additional petition signature. A minimum of 15 signatures is required for the completion of a petition.

St. Pierre-Jolys Job Centre Opens The St. Pierre-Jolys Manitoba Youth Job Centre is open once again for the summer.

Jennifer Martel is the Manager of the St. Pierre-Jolys Manitoba Youth Job Centre (MYJC), which is sponsored by Manitoba Children and Youth Opportunities in partnership with Canadian Educational Resources Council (CERC).

“I am looking forward to a great summer in our communities,” said Martel.

“Employers of all types, business and household, can take advantage of the free services the Centre provides.”

The MYJC is designed to meet the employment needs of students and youth, as well as the needs of employers who have vacant positions to fill by offering a free referral service to those who wish to hire an eager, hard-working young person.

The St. Pierre-Jolys Manitoba Youth Job Centre works with students and youth from St-Pierre-Jolys, Grunthal, Kleefeld, Ste-Agathe, Île-Des-Chênes, Tourond and Steinbach.

Anyone with questions or employment needs, please feel free to call 204- 4337544.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Niverville Youth Job Centre Opens

By Marianne Curtis

More Than Just News!

June 2013

17

Artifacts Destroyed in Ste. Anne Fire On the afternoon of May 24, Ste. Anne fire crews were called to a fire at the Ste. Anne Museum.

The Ste. Anne fire department managed to save about a quarter of the items inside and prevent the spread of the blaze to other buildings.

Paul Lavack, museum President, said the loss is devastating. The Ste. Anne Museum was home to artifacts that show how life was for early French Canadians and Métis Settlers.

“We will be able to salvage and restore some of the items but not a lot,” Lavack stated. “All of the articles and antiques are either consumed or blackened from smoke or heat.”

Estimated cost of the damage is $100,000 but not everything was insured. The building was insured by Villa Youville but the items themselves were not insured.

“Sentimental-wise, the loss is very intense. The history contained in the building is gone,” Lavack noted.

Despite the loss, the museum is not going to close. Lavack said that the Town of Ste. Anne is currently negotiating to buy land near the Seine River or may buy the old RM of Ste. Anne office, which is for sale.

Cause of the fire is unknown but has been determined as accidental.

Students are being encouraged to check out the youth job centre that recently opened in Niverville for the summer.

Since doors opened on May 13 Andrew Kampen, Manager of the Manitoba Youth Job Centre in Niverville, has been busy signing up perspective employers and students looking for summer jobs.

The program is sponsored by Manitoba Education, Citizenship, and Youth (MYJC), and is in partnership with the Niverville Town Office. The program is designed to help students and youth aged 12 to 29 with their employment needs, as well as assisting employers fill vacant positions.

Kampen invites employers from businesses, households, farms and construction Andrew Kampen, Manager of the Manitoba Youth Job Centre to take advantage of the in Niverville invites both students and perspective employers free services the Centre to visit the centre. provides.

“We have been helping youth get employment opportunities for 38 years now and we like to stick with what we have found works,” stated Kampen. “Every manager will do things a bit Ste. Anne Fire crews battle a mid different but we generally stick with the same main things.” afternoon blaze at the Ste. Anne On average, about 75 students use the service each summer, and many continued Museum. their jobs into the following year. As well, each year at least 50 employers are looking to fill numerous positions including servers, cashiers, child caretakers, and mechanics.

The MYJC also runs the Odd Job Squad, which hosts summer events such as barbeques, strawberry picks, perogy sales, labour lotteries and car washes that are held by the youth with the office manager’s supervision. This gives youth under the age of 16 a chance to make money and gain work experience.

The Niverville Manitoba Youth Job Centre offers services to the communities of Glenlea, Grande Pointe, Ile-des-Chênes, Landmark, Lorette, New Bothwell,

By Marianne Curtis Niverville, and St. Adolphe.

Students and employers can call 204-388-6793, email nivervillemyjc@gmail.com Spring is finally here and pet owners are advised to or stop by the MYJC office at 86 Main Street in Niverville from 9-5, Monday to keep an eye on their pets and watch for symptoms of Friday, for more information.

Lyme disease.

According to Dr. Vanessa Graydon, with the St. Pierre-Jolys Veterinary Clinic, Lyme disease is now considered epidemic in Manitoba, and that should put us on the defensive.

“Although we only see the tick in the summer time, we continue to deal with the after effects throughout the rest of the year,” stated Graydon. “We have dealt with

By Marianne Curtis five cases of dogs over the winter that have come down with Lyme disease. Although the bite happened The recent garment factory collapse in Bangladesh has Ten Thousand Villages sometime during tick season, the bacterium stays in the asking Canadians to give some thought to the origin of everyday items. For the system year round.” past six decades, Ten Thousand Villages has been asking consumers to be mindful Pet owners who think their dog or cat may have been to working conditions in other countries. After the collapse of a garment factory in exposed should take their animal to the vet.

Bangladesh, which claimed the lives of over 1,000 workers, the organization is “Vets will assess risk, clinical signs, and possibly hoping that people will become more aware of the dismal working conditions further testing to determine whether treatment is faced in other countries. necessary in your pet’s case,” Graydon noted.

Ryan Jacobs, General Manager of Ten Thousand Villages, said the organization Lyme disease is spread through black legged ticks also is disturbed by the situation. known as deer ticks. The bacteria lives in the tick’s “We at Ten Thousand Villages are disturbed by the dismal conditions faced by stomach and is transferred to a pet when the tick feeds. many of our brothers and sisters around the world,” said Jacobs. “These are The bacteria then enters the bloodstream where it has people with the same hopes and dreams we have, but who have few options for the potential to cause lyme disease. safe, meaningful work.”

“Most pets can fight off this infection without us Ten Thousand Villages grew out of the desire to create fairness within international even noticing anything happened,” continued Graydon. supply chains, and built a business model that has come to be known as “Fair “In some cases the pet gets sick.”

Trade”. As the largest and oldest Fair Trade organization in North America, it has Things to watch for include fever, general malaise, helped create safe working conditions and provided fair income to artisans and shifting leg lameness with no apparent cause and producers in countries around the world. frequent urination. These symptoms can appear long “The way Ten Thousand Villages and other Fair Trade organizations do business after the initial bite and the disease can remain dormant. presents unique challenges. But we won’t compromise when it comes to the well- “The most common symptom seen at our clinic is being of the artisans who produce our products,” said Jacobs. “Many Canadians lameness,” she added. already feel the way we do, but this recent tragedy has pushed the benefits of Lyme disease can be prevented by vaccinating against mindful consumerism and ethical fashion into the spotlight again.” it and by preventing tick bites. There are also products Ten Thousand Villages is known for offering fair wages, yet its business practices available for the prevention of bites. However, the best are different than traditional retailers by fostering direct connections with artisans, defence is to keep your pet vaccinated, Graydon creating healthy working relationships and mutually beneficial trading partnerships. stressed.

“We know the people who produce our products,” said Jacobs. “We value direct Blacklegged ticks are approximately 3 to 5 mm in connections so we can verify that working conditions are safe, standards are met, length and are red and brown in colour. Adult males are and people are being paid fairly and are not being taken advantage of.” smaller than females and are uniformly brown in colour.

In honour of those who lost their lives in Bangladesh, Ten Thousand Villages Adult blacklegged ticks are smaller than the more encourages Canadians to remain engaged in this important conversation about ethical purchasing and to exercise the power of thoughtful spending decisions.

Ten Thousand Villages a non-profit program of Mennonite Central Committee and e-shopping, Ten Thousand Villages Canada sells artisanCanada (MCCC), is the oldest and largest Fair Trade organization in North America crafted personal accessories, home decor and gift items and works with artisans who would otherwise be unemployed or underemployed. from around the globe. Artisans’ income pays for food, Through a network of 36 retail stores, including one in Steinbach, festival sales education, healthcare and housing.

Vet Warns Pet Owners to Lookout for Lyme Disease

Bangladesh Tragedy Challenges Canadians to Spend Mindfully

common wood tick. Wood ticks have white markings on their backs while blacklegged ticks do not.

These ticks survive best in locations that provide them with moist habitat. Wooded or forested areas are very suitable because the trees provide shade and leaf litter for ground cover to protect active ticks.

Adult blacklegged ticks are active in the spring and fall until the first permanent snowfall or when air temperatures are consistently below 4 ºC.

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June 2013

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

Blumenort Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday Blumenort Fun and Fair Days - From from 9 - 11 am at the Reynolds School Friday, June 21 to Sunday, June 23.

Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

Hadashville Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm Richer at the Hadashville Community Club 100 Year Centennial Enfant-Jésus Heritage (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 – On Sunday, June 23 a fundraiser banquet. years old to adults. Pursue a black belt or To reserve tickets, Contact Yvonne at 204learn new skills, great stress release and 422-9369 or Marcel at 204-422-6880. have an excellent workout at the same time. Cost after registration fee is $40/ Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for month per person. Ask about 2 week free Stacey Pchajek Memorial Foundation Inc. trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or The foundation provides scholarships, e-mail KSTA.academy@gmail.com. bursaries and prizes to students graduating grades 8 and 12. Children Under 14 must Kleefeld be accompanied by an adult to be on Chili Cook-Off - Registration open until premises and must play bingo. Doors Open Wednesday, July 3 for the first event and a at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club 22 chance at a $1,000 prize. See Kleefeld.ca Dawson Rd. in Richer. MGCC License # - Honey Festival - Chili Cook Off. Contest BI/BO4164. Contact: Doreen Pchajek at held on Saturday, August 10. Contact 422-5243 or email doreen@spmf.ca.

Gord firstgear @mts.net.

Sprague Community Playgroup - for parents, R Biz Camp – Now open for registration caregivers and children ages 0-5. Activities for Youth Ages 9 -14 on Monday July 29 – include time for playing, stories, songs Wednesday July 31 and Thursday August 8 and snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday – Friday August 9. Learn, have fun and of the month at the Kleefeld Rec Centre. make money. Cost $40 each, youth get Contact Irene Ascough 377-5013. back $20. Contact Dayna Lalchun 204746-6180 or dlachun@cftripler.ca.

La Broquerie Saint-Jean-Baptiste Days – Saturday, June Bingo - Every 2nd Wednesday.

22 – Sunday, June 23. On Saturday, a free Pancake Breakfast at 8:30 am followed St. Adolphe

by Slo-Pitch Tournament, Saturday Night The St. Adolphe Couvent/PCH Historical Social featuring Small Town Limits, Plan Book Committee - publishing a bilingual “D” and Ya Ketchose - Entry $10 and book about the St. Adolphe Couvent rebuilt Fireworks. On Sunday, a parade at 11:30 as a Personal Care Home. The Committee am followed by a Canteen French is looking for stories, pictures and related Canadian Cuisine, Inflatable games, documents when it was a Convent and pony rides, mini-train, petting zoo, school for local students and boarders. airbrush tattoos, dunk tank, Family softball We are looking for information from family Tournament and Live music. and friends of former residents of the Personal Care Home and former Seine River Services for Seniors- Health employees. Contact and receive a Centre/Centre de Santé from Monday to questionnaire Rhéa Trudeau 204-883Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Offers services 2181 or send information to St. Adolphe and programs for seniors. Income Tax PCH Heritage Group Book 420 Main St. help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, foot St. Adolphe, Manitoba R5A 1B7. care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, St. Labre Telecheck, the E.R.I.K. program, puzzles St. Labre 200 - Annual St. Labre 200 goand games. Contact Community Resource kart build off competition on Friday, July Coordinator Juliette Rowan at 424-5285 12 – Sunday, July 14. This is challenging or labseinerss@gmail.com. to 14 teams to build their own go-karts Shopping Trips - Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall within 24 hours, Track Hoe Rodeo, Rubber every first Thursday of the month, leaving Boot Toss, Alumni Race, Powder Puff Race, at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s Old Fart Race and much more.

Clearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, leaving at 10 am - 1 pm. Cost St. Pierre-Jolys $10.

St. Pierre- Jolys Frog Follies and Agricultural Fair – On Friday, July 11 – Mitchell Sunday July 14. Canadian Frog Jumping Mitchell Fun Days – From Friday, July 12 Championships where adults and children – Sunday, July 14. compete for top prize. Children’s games, sport tournaments, music and Breakfast and Social - every Tuesday entertainment are also featured. morning, 7:30 - 9:00 am except the last Tuesday of the month when the social is Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba held instead. Lunch starts at noon at the – Depression support group meetings held Mitchell and Area Seniors Centre. Contact on the 4th Tuesday of every month at 7 pm.

Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry 204-326-6944.

Hospital. Contact Judy Dunn 444-5228.

St. Malo Summer Festival – Registration is Open for the 3 on 3 Ball Hockey Tournament on Friday, August 30, maximum 6 per team; first 8 teams registered. On Saturday, August 31 Family Baseball Tournament and on Sunday, September 1 Slo-pitch tournament. Contact Chad 204-392-2342 Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with to register your team. children up to age six. Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located Ste. Anne in the lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Bibliothèque Ste. Anne Library Used Book Church (62 4th Avenue S.). Free drop-in Fundraiser – Sale of huge selection of used program with coffee and snacks provided, book proceeds will be used towards new along with a large open space for the kids library books. For further information call to play while the moms visit. Contact Mona at 422-9958 or drop in at the library at 16 Rue de l’Église. Cost of books $1Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com. $5.

Piney Seine River Services for Seniors – Invite all Bingo - Every 2nd Friday. seniors interested in the Wii Bowling game to come, try it out, and have fun. Monday Prawda Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight afternoons, at Le Club Jovial. Contact exercises, with cool down and stretch Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5575 exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, Community Resource Coordinator for local clean runners, and bring a bottle of water. services or e-mail labseinerss@gmail.com.

Cost: $2/class Mondays and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact Wendy 204-348-2433.

Niverville Niverville Old Tyme Country Fair – On Friday, June 7 – 8. Summer kick-off event.

Food, fun, fabulous fireworks and fantastic entertainment at a familyfriendly street festival. Contact 204-3922284.

More Than Just News!

Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Centre on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, from 6:30 - 8 pm. Selection of books in both French and English, all ages. Over 21,000 books including audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, large print books and magazines plus they can import books from any library in Manitoba.

Special requests can be made to the librarian, Brandi Schmitz at 204-878 9488, bibliotachelibrary.com or in person.

Dawson Trail Dispatch friendship, adventure and challenges through new experiences; develop leadership and decision-making 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 LBees, 5-275 Main St. Grab a coffee and discuss sustainable living.

Contact rebecca_hiebert@yahoo.com.

Steinbach Manitoba Youth Job Centre – Open until Seniors (60 +) Shinny Drop-in Hockey Tuesday, August 13 at 395 Main St. every Monday from 10 -11 am at Centennial Arena. Contact Bob Barrow at Babysitting Course – On Saturday, June 392-3596 or email 8, from 10 am – 4 pm at the Jake Epp bob.r.barrow@gmail.com.

Library. Students age 11-15 learn basic childcare skills, taking charge, what to do The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every in an emergency, and basic first aid skills Monday at noon at Steinbach 55 Plus in a fun environment. Students given 1/2 Centre. Contact Cornie at 326-3155. hour for lunch. Contact Jacqui at Trio First Aid Training, jacqui@triofirstaid.ca, Mental Health Information and Support 204-371-1950. sessions - for family and friends of people with mental health issues are held the 2nd Tour of a Lifetime - Canadian Food Grains Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm Bank Benefit Concert on Tuesday, June 11 at the Eden East building, 21 Loewen at Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or email 7:30 pm at the Steinbach United Church, eastmanmss@mts.net 541 Main Street. Ron Klusmeier’s Canadawide Tour of a Lifetime, in partnership with MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for Canadian Food Grains Bank and the people living with multiple sclerosis. The United Church Observer. Admission: group meets on the second Thursday Adults $20, 16 years and under $5. 25 evening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at percent of ticket sales are donated directly Fernwood Place apartments. Contact to Canadian Food Grains Bank. End Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Hunger!

Coordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or email nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca.

Summer in the City Festival – From Friday, June 14 – Sunday, June 16. Evening car MS Lunch Group- on fourth Thursday of show, food vendors, artists and crafters, every month, from 12 – 1 pm at the Village children’s entertainment, midway and Green Restaurant. Contact Nadine Konyk, more. Watch for a big Cultures in the City Rural Client Services Coordinator 326display and Worship in the City, Sunday at 1434 or email KR Barkman Park. Canadian greats Myles nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca.

Goodwyn and April Wine, along with Gord Bamford, will be the headline artists Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba at Steinbach’s street festival this summer. individual and support groups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, biWomen’s Networking Lunch – On polar disorder and other mental health/ Wednesday, June 12 from 11:30 am - 1:15 emotional concerns. Meets on the first pm with presentation at noon. Guest Wednesday of each month at Jake Epp speaker will cover current trends in business Library from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn branding, offering many ideas on how we 204-444-5228. can use a unique and consistent look to stand out from the rest without blowing The Bethesda Regional Healthcare our budget. Members and future members Auxiliary - meets on the first Tuesday of welcome. At PS Cakes, 191 Reimer Ave. every month except for the months of July Contact to register 204-422-6234. and August at the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone interested in auxiliary Blood Donor Clinic – On Thursday, June work. Contact Verna Thiessen at 326-3028.

20, donate blood from 3 – 7 pm at the Steinbach E.M.C. Church, 422 Main Steinbach and Area Lions Club meets on Street. Contact 1-888- 2-DONATE (1-888- the second and fourth Wednesdays of every 236-6283). month at the Magnolia Restaurant.

Contact 204-326-2313.

Steinbach Farmers’ Market – Every Thursday from 3 – 7 pm at the Clearspring Carillon Toastmasters - meetings are open Centre Parking Lot, PTH 12 N. Fresh to adults who want to improve their garden produce, baked goods, preserved leadership and communication skills. jams, pickles, etc., crafts and more. Thursday evenings starting at 7 pm at the Contact Brenda Gregoire 204-424-9494. Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, Contact Doreen 204-326-7525.

Movie Night at the Library – On Friday, June 28, showing “Cheaper by the Dozen” Steinbach AA 12 Step Recovery Program starring Steve Martin, in honour of all Meetings are held on Wednesdays at 7 Fathers! Rated PG. Free entrance and free pm. Steinbach United Church, 541 Main popcorn. Come with your family (and St. Ring the front door bell.

Dad!) or bring a bunch of friends and share a laugh! At the Jake Epp Library. Contact Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support 204-326-6841. group starts at 4:30 pm at Anna’s House B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact 346-0413.

Adult Book Club - Tuesdays from 7 – 9 pm. Bring book suggestions or peruse our Vita book lists. Meet some other book lovers Vita Canada Day Parade – Register by too and bring a friend. At the Jake Epp Thursday, June 20 for Canada Parade on Library 255 Elmdale St. Contact Tracey Monday July 1 at 10 am. Contact Candice Pankratz 204-326-6841 at 204-712-6446 or email programming@jakeepplibrary.com. reimer_candice14@hotmail.com.

Ladies Get Fit Classes - Sponsored by Eastman Immigrant Services, every Wednesday at 7:15 pm at the Woodlawn School gym. Aerobic, circuit training, weights, mats and stretching exercises.

Suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.

Register contact Lois 204-346-6609.

Hockey For Seniors (60+) - One hour of fun, exercise, friendship at the Steinbach Arena on Mondays from 10:30 - 11:30 am. Contact Bob Barrow, 204-392-3596, bob.r.barrow@gmail.com or Darrell Delong, 204-371-0229, djdlong@mymts.net.

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, selfrespect and respect for others; promote fun,

Woodridge Bingo - Every 2nd Sunday night at 7 pm.

General The Super Start Program, A Healthy Baby program with the Southern Regional Health Authority. Program for pregnant women and families with infants up to one year of age. Sessions include song and rhyme time, discussions and games on topics related to healthy babies and healthy moms. Door prizes, nutritious snacks and milk coupons for all participating expectant moms or mothers who have babies up to six months of age.

Contact: Terry from Super Start at 346-7021 or just drop in.

Blumenort - EMC Church on Thursday, June 6 at 10 am – 12 pm Niverville - Community Fellowship Church on Tuesday, June 11 at 10 am - 12pm

Ste. Anne - Dayspring Fellowship Church on Thursday, June 13 at 10 am – 12 pm Kleefeld – Mitchell Community Fellowship on Thursday, June 27 at 10 am – 12 pm St. Malo -St. Malo School on Wednesday, June 19 at 10 am – 12 pm St. Pierre-Jolys - St. Pierre Health Corner on Thursday, June 20 at 10 am – 12 pm Ste. Agathe - Community Hall Centre on Tuesday, June 18 at 10 am – 12 pm Lorette - Seine River Church on Tuesday, June 25 at 10 am – 12 pm Mitchell - Fellowship Church on Thursday, June 27 at 10 am – 12 pm Free monthly bus trips to the casinos of Winnipeg for a fun day at the Casinos.

Pick up in Steinbach at 8:30 am, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village at approximately 9 am. Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and $10 cash for everyone. Bingo on the bus. Call Marilyn at 204-326-4939 for date information and to reserve your bus seat. Next scheduled trip Tuesday, June 11.

Water Park and Pool in Works for Niverville The Town of Niverville is moving towards constructing a new splash park and outdoor pool on the west side of the community.

At the May 7 council meeting, council decided to research the development of a water park/pool facility that could be constructed adjacent to the Niverville Arena.

According to Councillor Myron Dyck, council has developed a Community Campus concept for the arena site with potential for a recreational, commercial, residential and educational campus on the current 14-acre arena and curling rink site.

Based on a preliminary operating and construction cost comparison, an outdoor swimming pool/water park would cost more to construct, but would attract more participation and would cost less to operate, Dyck noted.

Similar water park projects built in Wawanesa and Souris suggest the project could cost between $1.1 and $1.5 million, he added.

Council’s goal is to raise money through community donations, grants and foundation contributions so that borrowing would be limited.

The Town of Niverville council assures residents that before a project is approved, or if any funds were to be borrowed then public hearings would be held.

Community Cleanup Yield Tons of Trash Over 7.2 tonnes of garbage was cleared out of ditches and boulevards during Steinbach’s recent Pick-Up and Walk event. The one-day event, which took place on May 4, attracted close to 800 volunteers who scoured the streets and parks to collect a winter’s worth of trash.

Eldon Wallman, Solid Waste Supervisor for the City of Steinbach, confirmed that the volume was up from other years.

“The tonnage was up this year because a lot of the stuff was wet,” he stated.

“The volunteers did a great job. They did as much work in one day as one and half full time people would do in a year.

We couldn’t have done that if we tried.”

For the last couple of springs the community has banded together for the annual one-day event in a joint effort to clean up the community.

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Ste. Anne Takes Part in Walk for Dog Guides On Sunday, May 26, about 150 people gathered at the park in Ste. Anne to enjoy the day and the “Walk for Dog Guides”. This is an annual event held across Canada in support of the “Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guide School”.

Participants were able to gather monetary pledges, either in person or on-line, and then come to the park to both exercise themselves and their dogs as well as support the cause. There were two different areas to walk in and the distances were anywhere from 1 km to 2.5 km. The variety of breeds of dogs, big and small, represented was incredible. Many walkers did not have dogs accompanying them but that did not dampen their enthusiasm in the slightest.

Local Dog Guide recipient Shianne and her partner Navy attended. According to her mother Annette, Shianne was diagnosed with Hypermobility Syndrome and Hypotonia at an early age. Since Navy has been in her life the

family has noticed a great difference.

“We’ve seen Shianne become more independent and she does a lot more on her own now. Navy is there to pick up things that drop on the floor and help in many ways to make it easier in her dayto-day life,” explained Annette.

Shianne and Navy led the walk again this year as about 100 dogs and humans made their way around town. Strollers were pushed, children toddled, bikes were ridden, and others, young and old, walked to show their support for Dog Guides.

This is the second year the Steinbach, Area Lions Club organized the walk in Ste. Anne, and they provided free hot dogs and drinks to everybody who showed up.

New this year was a performance by the “Wild Dog Sports Team” from Winnipeg. They are a group of people who rescue dogs from shelters and then train them in agility and acrobatics. The show they put on was very entertaining with quite a few exciting moments as

The Wild Dog Sports Team made an appearance at the event in Ste. Anne.

Navy lays at the feet of Shianne, a local recipient of a Dog Guide.

races were held and tricks performed. It is amazing how fast some of these dogs are and how high even the smallest of them can jump.

Pledges and donations are still and the hope is that last year’s amount of just over $5,000 will be exceeded this year.

Should you wish to support this worthy cause, please go to purinawalkfordogguides.com/ findWalkResult and make a donation.

For more information about the Dog Guide School, please visit dogguides.com.

The Steinbach and Area Lions wish to thank everyone who had a part in making this Dog Walk such a success and they look forward to hosting it again next year.

Local Tumblers Make Provincial Team

By Marianne Curtis Three local gymnasts tumbled, bounced and flipped their way onto the Provincial Tumbling and Trampoline (T&T) Team.

Isaiah Klassen (11) of Niverville, Keaton Savard (11) of Kleefeld and Pierce Barlow (12) of Steinbach each earned a place on the nine person provincial team. As members of the team, the trio will now be heading to compete in the Western Canada Cup in Port Moody, Isaiah Klassen, Keaton Savard, and Pierce Barlow are gearing up to compete in the Western Canada Cup in BC after earning spots on the BC in June.

All three boys are members provincial Tumbling and Trampoline (T&T) Team. of the Flippers Gymnastics Club and coached by Bonita Martens.

According to Martins, the boys who train approximately 11 to 15 hours per week, competed in two of three events, tumbling and double mini.

“Tumbling, which is most like artistic gymnastics, has the athletes perform two different routines that consist of a series of 5 skills,” Martins explained. “Scoring is based on level of difficulty and the quality of the execution of the skill.”

The tumbling exercises are performed on a slightly elevated, 84-foot rod floor and can include elements like flips and handsprings. The double mini has competitors complete a short run and then jump onto a trampoline. They perform one skill rebound on the trampoline and then perform a dismount onto landing mats.

Klassen, Savard and Barlow, who train as artistic gymnastics, were scouted to try out for the Provincial competition. The boys have been training since September of 2012 and focusing on learning how to adapt their artistic gymnastic skills to those of Tumbling and Trampoline.

In preparation for the big Western Canada Cup, the boys will continue their regular training schedule at Flippers Gymnastics but also work with a trainer at Sport Manitoba to improve condition and work on strength. They will also train with other provincial teammates at Panthers Gymnastics in Winnipeg.

June 2013

Public Meetings Held for CooksDevils Creek Watershed Plan The Cooks Creek Conservation District is developing the Cooks-Devils Creek integrated watershed management plan, in collaboration with the Province of Manitoba, local municipalities, stakeholders and watershed residents.

The plan will act as a roadmap to guide decision making related to the protection, restoration and better management of land and water within the Cooks-Devils Creek watershed.

The first step in the Cooks-Devils Creek integrated watershed management planning process was to engage the public through a series of meetings.

Meetings were held in East Selkirk, Garson, East St Paul, Ste Genevieve, and Dugald in March 2013. Over 100 watershed residents attended these meetings. The purpose of these meetings was to engage local people to understand what their priority land and water values and concerns were within the watershed.

“We wanted to hear what is important to people, what they value, what are they concerned about. The input we received will influence how we move forward with developing the watershed plan,” said Neil Van Ryssel, Chair of the project management team.

Surface water management, including flooding, drainage, and water retention, emerged as the most important issue to people in the watershed.

Groundwater quality was the second most

19

important issue, as the majority of watershed residents are dependent on groundwater as their source of drinking water. Natural areas, particularly wetlands, are valued. The water quality of lakes and rivers was also mentioned by many participants. The next step will be to gather input from technical experts.

The project management team will strive to update the public regularly as the planning process continues over the next one to two years. The project management team will solicit the public for feedback once a draft plan is completed.

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June 2013

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Did You Know?

Landscape fabrics are used to prevent weed growth while still allowing air, oxygen and water to flow to and from the soil. Landscape fabrics are a chemical-free way to prevent weed growth, endearing them to eco-friendly homeowners. Landscape fabrics, once laid, also are a far less labor-intensive method to prevent weed growth, as they can be effective for several years, during which homeowners can expect to perform little or no maintenance. In addition, many homeowners prefer landscape fabrics because they can help the soil effectively maintain moisture during dry periods, when gardens might otherwise be highly susceptible to drought.

Once put down, landscape fabric can be covered with mulch to add aesthetic appeal.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

June 2013

21

Deer-proofing a Garden Creating a beautiful and bountiful garden is a popular pastime for people all across the country. It is important to keep in mind that aesthetically appealing plants may be appetizing to area wildlife, including deer. Those who do not want their gardens to turn into all-you-can-eat buffets for deer, rabbits and other wild animals can take a more proactive approach to gardening.

Deer are opportunists who will no doubt see your garden as a salad bar ripe with all of their favorite foods. As housing developments continue to encroach on the natural habitats of deer and other animals, these animals are becoming more visible. Deer may not be able to forage for food effectively in their smaller, natural surroundings, or they may become accustomed to the “easy pickings” they find in neighborhood yards. Either way, you may encounter a deer in or around your area.

Keeping deer at bay involves some work and maintenance on the part of a homeowner. There are safe and humane methods to repelling deer, or at least blocking access to the plants worth protecting. Here are the main ways to deer-proof a garden.

Fence It Fences are one way to deter deer from entering a yard and dining on your garden. Keep in mind that deer can jump fences that are quite tall, but they have to be especially motivated to jump an eight-foottall fence. Still, they tend to be weary about scaling a fence when they cannot see what is on the other side. Therefore, if you are fencing out deer, choose a fence that camouflages the garden well and completely encloses the area to be protected. If you do not want the fence to be solid, consider putting stakes or thorny plants within the garden so that the deer will hesitate to jump into the garden.

Scare Them Deer are naturally skittish around people, but over time they can become quite complacent around human beings. Once a deer decides that something will not present a threat, the deer can adapt to its presence.

Motion-activated devices may not work, nor the presence of pets. Predator urine is typically an effective way at keeping deer at bay. Bottled coyote urine can be quite effective, although human urine may work as well. Reapplying the product weekly around the plants is a good idea.

Repel the Deer There are many organic or chemically-based products on the market that deer may find offensive to the taste or smell.

Hot pepper, sulfur and eggs or even the use of soapy water have been successful in certain instances.

The use of blood meal or even human hair around the garden may repel the deer and keep them on a different foraging path.

However, remember that any deer that is very hungry may ignore unpleasant tastes or smells for a quick bite.

Change Plants If other food sources are available, there are some species of plants and trees that deer will avoid.

Filling your garden with these plants can help you maintain a beautiful, albeit untasty, environment for deer. When planting annuals, select among:* Alyssum* Begonias* Calendula* Celosia* Dianthus* Foxglove* Geraniums* Parsley* Poppy* Snapdragons In terms of perennials, plant these items once, and deer could stay away:* Ageratum* Anemone* Astibe* Bearded iris* Catmint* Honeysuckle* Lantana* Monkshood* Rock rose* Rosemary* Soapwort* Wisteria Plant these herbs alongside flowers for even more protection:* Chives* Eucalyptus* Garlic* Mint* Thyme* Wintergreen Gardeners who use a combination of methods to keep deer out of their yards and gardens may have a higher success rate at deterring these animals.

Call Manitoba Hydro before You Dig If you’re planning a project that involves excavation, such as drilling for a well, digging postholes, or even putting in a new garden or flowerbed, call Manitoba Hydro ahead of time.

Before you start your project, call us to arrange an appointment where we will check and mark your property for buried electrical lines or natural gas lines. The service to locate Manitoba Hydro-owned underground facilities is free. Manitoba Hydro’s trained personnel will mark the locations of underground power lines and gas lines, and buried installations such as vaults containing transformers or electrical switchgear.

Call before you dig to prevent: - Service outages; - Equipment damage; - Costly repairs; - Environmental pollution; - Personal injury or even death.

Call 204-480-1212 in Winnipeg or 1-888-MBHYDRO (1-888-624-9376) to arrange for Manitoba Hydro to mark your property for electrical and natural gas lines. Don’t forget to call other utilities to receive their clearance too.

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June 2013

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Get Ready for Camping Season Camping is a popular outdoor activity that attracts many enthusiasts year after year. Some people camp every month while others only have time for one great excursion into the wilderness each year.

This year, millions of camping trips will take place across the country.

Preparation is key to a successful camping trip.

Whether campers plan to spend one night or several in the great outdoors, there are certain tips to follow to ensure your trip is as fun and safe as possible.

Gear In order to be comfortable, stock up on camping gear.

Tents, sleeping bags and other gear need not be the most expensive. Quality, moderately priced gear works well, too.

With care and maintenance, camping gear can last for several years. A tent will be your first line of defense against the outdoors. Although plenty of people prefer to sleep out under the stars, a tent is a place to avoid inclement weather and insects and have a little privacy. Your tent need not be too big, unless you plan to share it with many of your fellow campers. Since you will be spending the majority of your time outdoors, don’t feel pressured to buy the tent equivalent of a three-room suite. A good tent should be sturdy, weatherresistant and large enough to fit the people who will be sleeping in it during your trip. Invest in a pad to place on the floor of the tent to shield you from the hard ground. The pad will make sleeping more comfortable. If you will be sleeping during warm-weather months, you don’t have to worry about an expensive sleeping bag. An average-weight one will be just fine. Don’t forget to pack a pillow.A cooler filled with foods and drinks will tide you over for the trip. If you plan to cook, you will need to bring the ingredients for meals.

Otherwise sandwiches should suffice. Some campgrounds have grills and picnic tables available. Otherwise, you can cook hot dogs right over your open campfire.

Where to camp Campsites may be public or private. Public campgrounds are generally funded by tax dollars and maintained by parks departments or government offices. They may be free to enter or charge a nominal fee for use. Because of the low cost involved, they may be quite popular and crowded during peak camping season.

Private campsites are run by private companies or individuals and may also feature RV hookups. In many instances, private campsites sell memberships to interested parties, which gives access to certain private areas. They may have more amenities than public campsites. Private sites also may employ security personnel and maintenance crews to ensure the areas are clean and safe and to enforce campground rules. This may not be the case at public campsites, where conditions may be inconsistent from site to site.

An online search of both public and private campsites nearby can help you determine which option best suits you.

Avoid critters Animals and insects are part of the camping experience. While they are unavoidable, there are some measures you can take to reduce the propensity for bothersome bug bites or clever critters raiding the cooler. Keeping a clean campsite is perhaps the most effective animal and insect deterrent. Ants and animals are attracted to food bits scattered around the site, so be sure to gather trash and dispose of it properly each day. Try not to store food on the ground. Whenever possible, keep food locked away in an airtight cooler or other container. Dry foods can be stored under lock and key in the car. Racoons, squirrels, birds, and skunks all have been known to patrol campgrounds for an easy meal. Also, you don’t want to lure in larger predators, such as bears or wild cats.

To avoid insects, steer clear of perfumed products. Keep lights dim at night, as bright lights attract mosquitoes and other biting bugs. Use appropriate insect repellents to help further repel bugs.

Closer isn’t always better Many new campers make the mistake of choosing campsites that are in close proximity to bathrooms and clubhouses and other reminders of civilization. But these areas tend to feature heavy foot and car traffic and can make for a noisy experience. To avoid the lights, sounds and bustle of too many people, stick with campsites farther off the beaten path. You may need to walk a little farther, but you will likely enjoy a more peaceful camping experience.

Plan for the wetness Even if it doesn’t rain, dew is an inevitable part of camping outdoors. Warm weather with high humidity can make dew even more plentiful. Use a shower curtain or another plastic impenetrable liner beneath your tent to reduce wetness and chilliness while you sleep. Be sure to bring in clothes and remove items from your clotheslines before you retire for the night if you don’t want them damp the next morning.

Use tarps to cover anything that should not get wet. Be sure to pack plenty of dry socks and changes of clothes and store them in zipper-top bags in the event clothing does get wet. Wet clothes can be uncomfortable and increase your risk for hypothermia.

Carry in and carry out Part of the magic of camping is being able to enjoy nature and experience the great outdoors. It is crucial to protect natural landscapes as much as possible and to exercise caution around plant life. In addition, be mindful of animal habitats. What you bring to the campsite, including trash, should be removed when you are done. Do not leave a mess behind.

Camping can be an enjoyable and inexpensive vacation option. Learning the ropes and heeding some advice can make camping an enjoyable getaway year after year.

Safety Tips for Fairs Country fairs and street festivals can make for fun family outings. The nice weather just beckons people outdoors, and weekend after weekend resourceful fair goers can probably find an event nearby. But revelers need to make sure their experiences are as safe as they are fun. * Dress for the weather. It is important to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear. Many fairs are set up in fields or empty parking lots. There will be a lot of walking, and you want to be sure you are comfortable. Check the weather before going and dress for the temperature. Wear hats to shield your faces from the sun and lather on plenty of sunblock for protection. * Identify security guards or a security kiosk upon entering.

Let children know where safety personnel are stationed.

Establish a meet-up point that is very conspicuous should anyone get separated from the group. This central location will be checked first and should be easily identifiable for young children. Instruct the child to stay there until you find him or her. * Put your mobile phone number in your child’s pocket.

Put your name or “Mom/Dad” on a sheet of paper with a contact number and put it in your son or daughter’s pocket.

Should he or she get lost, the child can approach a security guard and give that person your phone number. * Take a current photo of the kids. Use your smartphone or camera to snap a picture of your children when you arrive at the event. This way you will have a method of helping others identify them should they get lost. * Stick together. things as their younger siblings. But separating increases the risk of someone getting lost.

Fairs are staples of the warm-weather season across the province. These enjoyable outings are even more fun when families play it safe.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

Lions Support Library with a Daisy The Steinbach and Area Lions recently donated 2 “Daisy Readers” to the Ste. Anne Library. These were funded in cooperation with the Lions Eye-Bank of Manitoba & Northwestern Ontario.

The Daisy (digital accessible information system) Reader is designed to be a complete audio substitute for print material and is specifically designed for use by people with “print disabilities,” including blindness, impaired vision, and dyslexia. Users can search, place bookmarks, precisely navigate line by line, and regulate the speaking speed without distortion. This is a huge improvement over the original “Books on Tape” which are being slowly phased out as more people move to the Daisy system.

The Lions decided to donate the readers as a project of International President Madden’s R.A.P. (Reading Action Program) and as a way of fulfilling the Lions dedication to assisting the blind and visually impaired.

The readers will be loaned out to clients of the library at no charge for up to a month at a time.

Contact Head Librarian, Mona Gauthier at the Ste. Anne Library for more information or to reserve a Daisy Reader.

June 2013

23

Mustang Driver Turns Himself in for Hit and Run On Saturday, May 18 at 11 pm, the Steinbach RCMP were dispatched to a hit and run collision at the intersection of Brandt Street and Main Street in Steinbach.

A 2009 Kia was struck by another vehicle at this intersection.

The other driver left the scene without exchanging particulars or checking on the well-being of the other people involved. All occupants of the Kia were treated at the scene by EMS and no serious injuries were reported.

An adult male from the Giroux area eventually showed up at the Steinbach RCMP Detachment, admitted to being the driver of the black Ford Mustang and turned himself in. He was charged with a number of Highway Traffic Act Offences, including Drive with an Invalid Licence, and Failure to Remain at the Scene of an Accident.

The matter is still being investigated to determine if additional charges are warranted.

Steinbach Lion President Wayne Pearen and Library volunteer Lion Pat Barnard present reader to Ste. Anne Librarian Mona Gauthier.

Seine River Division Honours Students The Seine River School Division is once again honouring students for their community involvement and good citizenship.

Each year, the Seine River School Division recognizes students for their community spirit and community involvement.

The Early Years award was presented to Avery and Ethan Cochrane from Ecole Lorette Immersion. The team award was given to McKenna Burbank, Samantha Vien and Emerald Sebastian from Ecole Ile des Chênes School.

The Middle Years went to Tyra Turbovski from Richer School.

The Senior Years award was given to Kaira Lavalle from Ste. Anne Collegiate while the Team Award was presented to the CLC Sharing Circle in Lorette Collegiate.

Two of the winners were nominated by the board of trustees for a provincial Manitoba School Board Association’s Citizenship Award. Turbovski was nominated for an individual award and the CLC Sharing Circle was nominated as a team. Both will be representing the Seine River School Division at the provincial level.

Niverville Hires Bylaw Enforcer At the beginning of May, residents living in Niverville can feel a little safer after the town council signed a contract for bylaw enforcement services with Steinbach Security Services.

“While it will take some time to ramp up service levels, primary focus will be on ensuring compliance with regulatory town by-laws with any specific concerns brought forward by our citizens,” stated council.

Council noted that bylaw officers would be clearly visible by both vehicle identification and personal identification that they will carry. They will be enforcing town bylaws including parking and unsightly premises bylaws.

Town of Niverville residents requiring assistance from the bylaw officer are encouraged to contact them directly by calling 204-380-2983 or emailing the town at feedback@whereyoubelong.ca.

STARS Helicopter Called to Richer

The Richer Fire Department responded recently to an injury call on May 6 in the community of Richer located south of the Trans-Canada Highway. While an ambulance was on scene, a STARS flight was requested due to the seriousness of the injuries.

Richer Firefighters quickly prepared the Dawson Trail Park for the arrival of the flight.

24

More Than Just News!

June 2013

Italian Company to Build New Pharmacy in St. Pierre-Jolys

By Marianne Curtis Residents in St. Pierre-Jolys will soon have another pharmacy now that construction has begun on a major addition to Big-Way Foods.

Mark Duddridge, owner of St. PierreJolys’ Big-Way Foods, is excited to announce that in a few months his store will expand significantly now that he plans to add a pharmacy.

“We are very excited about this.

The new pharmacy will be one of a kind and truly unique to the area,” Duddridge said. “It will be The new pharmacy in St. Pierre-Jolys will be a first in Canada really beautiful for Italian company Sartoretta Verna who builds pharmacies across Europe. when it is done.”

Duddridge said that his design came from a quick google search when he stumbled upon a company called Sartoretta Verna, an Italian company that builds pharmacies across Europe. This will be their first project in Canada.

“We wanted something exceptional, not the typical boring pharmacy,” Duddridge beamed. “I am really encouraged by the response.”

Not only will the new pharmacy be unique in design, it will also offer a wide range of services including over-the-counter products, cosmetics, fragrances and a full service dispensary and a full-time pharmacist. He also plans to host flu shot and vaccine clinics.

“Our pharmacist will be an important part of your medical plan,” he promised.

Once the new pharmacy is completed, Duddridge will also be changing the name of his business to Villageo Market.

A grand opening is being planned for September.

Niverville Student Earns Athletic Scholarship Ryan Fast, from Niverville Collegiate, is one of five high school athletes in Manitoba who were recognized when the Manitoba High Schools Athletic Association (MHSAA) presented a variety of awards and scholarships.

On May 21, the MHSAA and Red River Co-Op presented scholarships to five student athletes who have shown leadership and integrity.

Nominations were invited from schools in the Red River Co-op trading area. Each recipient is awarded a $1,000 scholarship to be used towards post secondary education.

A grade 12 student at Niverville Collegiate Fast plays volleyball and soccer and was captain of the winning AA Provincial Championship Volleyball team, where he was also selected as an all star. He also takes the lead by mentoring younger players and always offers encouragement in difficult situations. Fast is also known for helping his teammates in overcoming obstacles by trying new things both tactically and psychologically.

Off the field, Fast teaches Sunday school to a group of 10 and 11 year olds.

The Manitoba High Schools Athletic Association is a voluntary not for profit organization which coordinates high school sport in the province.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP Shows off New Cruiser

By Marianne Curtis Officers from the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP Detachment are the first in Manitoba to have one of the new police interceptor vehicles from Ford.

According to Staff Sergeant Ron Poirier, the vehicle was ordered to replace one of their squad cars wrecked in an accident earlier this year.

“Ford has discontinued the Crown Victoria’s and are now selling police a new interceptor which are based on the Ford Taurus,” explained Poirier.

When the new model arrived last month, the St. Pierre-Jolys Detachment became the first in Manitoba to receive one. Since then Headingly RCMP has added an unmarked version to their department’s fleet.

The new Ford Interceptor has a 365 horsepower V6 engine that makes it more powerful than the 250 horsepower V8 engine Crown Victoria and making it more fuel-efficient. However, the biggest bonus is the cruiser has all-wheel drive.

“We are looking forward to seeing how it will perform in the summer when it’s wet and in the winter, once we have a full winter kit on it,” Poirier noted.

The only drawback that was noted is the smaller interior, which makes it tight for officers. However, much of the interior gear such as radios and video equipment is more compact, which helps make up the difference.

Constable Pierre Demers with the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP shows off the department’s new police interceptor at the Tache Fire Department pancake breakfast.

Photo by Marianne Curtis