Dawson Trail Dispatch March 2014

Town of Ste. Anne Wants to Cut RM Out of Recreation

Golden Girl Returns to Hero’s Welcome

By Marianne Curtis Twenty-five-year-old Jocelyne Larocque of Ste. Anne returned from Sochi, Russia on February 26 to be greeted at the airport by a small gathering of family and friends, but once she stepped onto the streets of Winnipeg, she received a hero’s welcome.

In her inaugural appearance as an Olympic athlete, Larocque will forever be remembered as a Manitoba’s hero with Team Canada’s Gold Medal winning hockey team. She will also be remembered for being the hockey player who scored the first goal in the first period of the first game of the series in her first Olympic appearance.

“I still can’t even believe it. It’s still so surreal, I mean, I feel awesome,” Larocque said of the final game. “That was the most exciting game of hockey I have ever played and not because it was for a gold medal. The game itself was amazing; it was back and forth hockey and the U.S. played amazing.”

“There was a moment when I was really scared,” Larocque recalled, when the arena fell silent as the puck headed across the ice towards the open American net only to hit the post and bounce away from the net. “I just thought NO!” Even Canadian hockey commentator Don Cherry noticed Larocque and referred to her as a ‘rock’ in defence.

“Hopefully our team has inspired other young girls to get into hockey and inspires others to stay in hockey,” Larocque added. She hopes to inspire other girls to follow their dreams, just as she did.

“This win has done a lot for girl’s hockey in Canada.”

One of Larocque’s first honours after returning from her Olympic win was to drop the puck at the February 26 Winnipeg Jets game, a huge honour, she said.

Olympian Jocelyne Larocque tries to take a bite out of her Gold medal after Team Canada beat Team USA during the Sochi Olympics in Russia.

Continued on page 2

The Town of Ste. Anne is closing the door to municipal representation by deciding to disband the community’s recreation committee in an effort to get rid of volunteers from outside of town limits.

At a recent Town of Ste. Anne meeting, council gave first reading to a bylaw that will abolish the current sport and recreation committee. Once the group is disbanded, then it is expected to be replaced with representation from members that live within town limits.

Town of Ste. Anne Councillor, Ken Dayment said that the Town of Ste. Anne wants the committee to be comprised of members who live within town limits because the municipality does not contribute to the facilities.

“We have tried to get the RM of Ste. Anne involved for years,” stated Dayment. In the past, the Town of Ste. Anne has allowed rural residents to sit on the board with hopes of bringing the municipality to the table.

Continued on page 3

RM of Hanover to Hold Liquor Vote When RM of Hanover residents visit the polls in October they will have an extra question placed on the ballot.

According to Hanover Reeve Stan Toews, the municipality has decided to include a liquor referendum as part of the election process.

“We’ve had requests from some restaurants who want to serve liquor,” explained Toews. “We decided that we would put it on the ballot again and give people a choice.”

Currently RM of Hanover residents can purchase alcohol products at the Sarto Store and at socials in Pansy, Sarto and Friedensfeld through special permits.

The RM of Hanover allows three permits per community a year.

“We are getting more requests every year for fairs and other events,” Toews continued.

If the RM of Hanover residents vote in favour of allowing liquor to be served throughout the municipality, individual permits will still be required.

The last time the RM of Hanover held a liquor vote was in 2006. At the time, 2,611 people voted on the question losing by a mere 29 votes.

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March 2014

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Imrie Shines in Sochi

Falcon Lake native Megan Imrie races to the finish in Sochi, Russia during the 2014 Olympic Games.

By Marianne Curtis The eyes of Falcon Lake were on 27-year-old native Megan Imrie when she competed in several biathlon categories as a member of Team Canada in the Sochi Olympics.

Imrie’s drive and determination kept her climbing steadily to the top and this year she competed in six gruelling events during the Sochi 2014 The Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics Olympics in Russia.

Date Event Results “It was really great,” Feb 9 Biathlon Women’s Sprint 31 22:19.5 Imrie stated. “I had Feb 11 Biathlon Women’s Pursuit 28 32:22.7 some very consistent Feb 14 Biathlon Women’s Individual 30 48:32.7 results and excellent shooting, which I’ve Feb 17 Biathlon Women’s Mass Start 27 38:59.0 been really happy Feb 19 Biathlon Mixed Relay 11 1:13:27.7 with.”

Feb 21 Biathlon Women’s Relay 8 1:12:21.5 Imrie said that the atmosphere, in Sochi was very different from Vancouver, which gave her an advantage this year.

“It was more low-key. We were secluded here,” added Imrie. “In Vancouver it was more of a party atmosphere.”

While Imrie prepared for her races amid peace and quiet, the community of Falcon Lake took on a festive feel during the Olympics. Students at the Falcon Beach School, where Imrie was once a student, put together a sleepover so they could watch her compete and cheer her on. Twenty-five students woke up early to watch their hero represent Canada.

Gary Gilhen, Principal for Falcon Beach School, said the students were excited for the opportunity to stay at the school and cheer Imrie on.

“The students look up to her. Whenever she comes home she visits the students and tells them stories,” stated Gilhen. “She still has a strong connection to this school. She encourages them to dream big.”

This was Imrie’s second Olympic appearance as part of Team Canada in biathlon. While competing in the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, the biathlete participated in three races. Her best finish was a 15th place as part of the women’s biathlon 4 x 6-kilometre relay.

Larocque continued...

Continued from page 1 Larocque said that she will be spending the next few weeks visiting various schools, as well as visiting with family who she hasn’t seen since before Christmas.

Afterwards she plans on taking a few well-deserved months off.

Although a member of Canada’s National Women’s Team since 2008, this was Larocque’s first Olympic appearance.

Larocque drops the puck for the Winnipeg Jet’s Olli Jokinen and Phoenix Coyotes’ Oliver Elman-Larsson before the February 26 game.

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Employment Fair Draws Hundreds of Job Seekers

Over 600 people checked out the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce and Eastman Immigrant Services’ 5th Annual Eastman Employment Fair on February 25.

By Marianne Curtis The Steinbach Chamber of Commerce and Eastman Immigrant Services held their 5th Annual Eastman Employment Fair at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre on February 25. Over 600 people paid a visit to the fair that had on hand 32 employers from all across the southeast.

Marina Klassen, Fair Coordinator and Career Coach with Eastman Immigrant Services, was very pleased with this year’s event.

“With a record number of attendees coming through the doors this is the largest job fair we have hosted,” said Klassen. “We also had a great cross-section of attendees with some coming looking for work, others coming in hopes of making a career change, and still others who want to stay informed with who is hiring in the area for future opportunities.”

While many people attended the event, comments on social media suggested that jobs are not as easy to get in the region, as most would assume.

“Finding employment these days has become very challenging; it’s almost like having a full-time position just looking for a job. There are so many factors involved, such as, do I have the skill set the employer is looking for; not just skills that are essential to the job, but also secondary skills, also called soft skills, or interpersonal skills,” Murray explained. “I understand that not everyone would find the ‘perfect job’ with such a limited number of employers compared to job seekers, however, there are those who do find gainful employment through this fair.”

Klassen recalled that at the 2012 fair a newcomer from the trucking industry had come to see what was available and ended up making a great connection with a law enforcement establishment and was soon hired as a direct result of the fair.

“We had a company from the southeast who attended our fair in 2013 who ended up hiring a high level manager as a result of a contact made at our fair. We are so pleased to see hires being made in all levels of these companies that participate in our event.”

Kyla Murray, from the Chamber of Commerce, said exhibitors ranged from manufacturing to health care to law enforcement and emergency services to financial services and more.

“Businesses were pleased with the turnout and many of them left with stacks of resumes so it seems to have been a very successful evening for our employers,” added Murray. “That’s a good indication of success for us as organizers.”

Plans are already underway for the 2015 fair.

Canada’s average unemployment rate in January was 7 percent compared to Manitoba’s unemployment rate in January at 5.6 percent.

Seine River Loses Board Member

The Seine River School Division will end the school year without representation from Ward 2 after the recent resignation of Randy Engel.

With the next municipal election to take place in October, the school division does not have to hold a by-election to fill the vacancy.

March 2014

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Ste. Anne Rec continued...

Continued from page 1 The RM of Ste. Anne does not fund any of the recreational programs in Ste. Anne even though it has been shown numerous times that a large number of program participants are from various corners of the municipality.

Reeve Art Bergmann said the municipality does not want to fund the facilities in the town of Ste. Anne.

“We are leaving it up to the ratepayers to decide where they want to spend their money,” Bergmann noted.

“We have always maintained that we do not believe that everyone in the municipality should help pay for the facilities.”

While the RM of Ste. Anne does not fund the Town of Ste. Anne’s facilities, they do contribute some funding to recreation facilities in Richer, Giroux and Greenland.

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March 2014

Olympic Heroes An Inspiration to Manitoba Every Olympics, both summer and winter, produce storylines and heroes that are often remembered for a lifetime. While they often serve as an inspiration to the next generation of athletes, they should also serve as a greater inspiration to each of us and to our province.

This Winter Olympics we watched as the Manitoba women’s curling team, skipped by Jennifer Jones won the Gold Medal for Canada and made the case for being one of the best women curlers of all time. As well, local hockey player Jocelyne Larocque from Ste. Anne was a key part of one of the most dramatic Olympic hockey games ever played as she and her teammates won gold by defeating their American rivals.

The success of these and other Manitoba athletes comes after years of hard work and dedication. And they help remind us that as Manitobans, we are able to compete with others from around the world. The Olympic stage brings with it a great deal of attention, but there are many other success stories of individuals and corporations from Manitoba who have made their mark on the world stage more quietly.

And ultimately, that should be the goal that we set for our province. Too often, we allow our province to be defined by what others may say about us. The reality is that Manitoba has unlimited possibilities available to it through its people and its resources. When utilized well and encouraged, there are few things that Manitobans cannot achieve.

But to achieve these things it takes an attitude and commitment to be the best. Canada’s ‘Own the Podium’ program was seen when it was originally created as being somewhat unCanadian, because it was so bold. But it reflected the willingness and desire of athletes to compete to be the best in the world and as we have seen again in this most recent Winter Olympics, there is no reason they cannot.

We can all draw inspiration from these athletes and confidence that, regardless of our sport, occupation or passion, we can compete to be among the best. Manitoba as a whole should be striving to be among the best and most competitive provinces in Canada and we can draw inspiration from individual Manitobans who have shown their own ability.

I want to congratulate all of Manitoba Olympic and Paralympic athletes on representing our province so very well. Whether you won medals or achieved personal bests or simply competed as hard as you could, you have done well and serve as an inspiration to the great things Manitoba and Manitobans can achieve.

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.

Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Politics, Predictable and Without Class Let’s start with the budget. The Minister of Finance could have declared the Canadian books are in the black! Deficit has been slain! High five! But no, the elections are a year and a half away. And damn it to hell if the economy dared to get ahead of the government schedule and show a small surplus. This is a full year before the Minister of Finance can heroically lift the curtain on a plethora of goodness because it is written that a Conservative surplus needs to line up with election time. Suffice it to say the majority of us were meant to joyfully go to the polls next year, uncurl our excited toes and vote the government back in.

If circumstances or thinking were normal, the Minister would accept reality. He would have instituted a few progressive initiatives in this budget which could have accelerated our job numbers. This would have given the Minister of Finance infinitely more credibility going into next year’s budget presentation.

At least some of us could start our toe curling exercises. I am surprised that the government couldn’t just smile at their good luck and go with it. Their siege mentality is robbing them of common sense. Stow flippancy and smile Mr. Minister, economic affairs could be worse and you could be the opposition.

The Ukraine. This poor unlucky part of the globe could use a bit of luck. Its political masters have raped the land and pillaged its citizens for eons. This started even before the Soviet era and has continued under a few subsequent presidents that majored in intimidation, corruption, murder and ballot box stuffing.

As of now they just had a revolution, their president had flown the coop to Russia. Now it will be difficult to move forward without interference by Russian troops. Luck will be a necessary ingredient. But, Russia has 150 thousand troops at the Ukraine border, as of now a destabilizing force in the Crimea as well and has the OK from their Parliament to invade ‘en mass’ if necessary. Mischief is on Russian President Putin’s mind. President Obama has just told Russia hands off, but he is thinking in economic terms, that’s like waving a red flag at a bull. How will this play out? Good question. Multiple forces are in play. I wish the Ukrainians a lot of luck. Yes, Canada needs to participate in their time of need. We are sending a delegation to show moral support and probably suggest monitored new elections but in the meantime helping bail them out financially. They, the Ukrainians, are in dire straits as their President absconded with, if rumours are to be believed, one billion bucks. Let’s not get overly upset with a Canadian financial donation. We now have a surplus, remember, and besides, world peace has a price in dollars and is always cheaper than lives.

In cases such as this, if the past serves me correctly, the Canadian Government sent these delegations, non-partisan. All parties would be represented. I suppose, if we are trying to write history partisanship while writing history, it would make us look small and flippant. The Conservatives have said that the official opposition has taken the wrong side in the Ukrainian struggle. This is not only an untruth, it’s an outright lie, and the NDP opposition has been leading the charge to support the democratic elements in the Ukraine from the outset. As for the third party, they refused to grant them participation because in a previous interview their main man, the brash good-looking kid, flippantly joked recently about the probability of Russia attacking Ukraine because of losing at Olympic hockey. Well that was considered bad taste by the Harper moral police and the Russian ambassador to Canada who personally chastised us for this tongue in cheek flippancy. I wonder if he would at least get some points now that Russia has troops and aircraft at the border and is threatening Armageddon. I wonder if the Russian ambassador is taking any questions on the subject. I don’t suppose 150 thousand troops are out there picking blueberries. Yes, I just now tried flippancy and there goes my hopes of a free trip to the Ukraine.

The brash new Liberal kid in Parliament was flippant in an unguarded moment of human mischief and the Minister of Finance was flippant about our state of our finance. Welcome to predictability with very little class and welcome to the Cold War 2.0.

Strike Diverted Between Hanover and Custodian Staff The Hanover School Division is pleased with a recently ratified contract between the division and their custodial staff. Last month the Hanover School Division managed to curtail a custodial strike after reaching a tentative contract agreement with the division’s 75 custodians.

In the middle of January, custodial employees voted in favour of taking strike action. The vote came after the employer rejected an offer by the union in October 2013 to submit the contract dispute to binding

arbitration.

According to Hanover School Division Board Chairperson, Marilyn Plett, the contract gives custodians a 2 percent wage increase each year for the next four years.

“We’ve agreed to extend the settlement for an extra year, from a three-year contract to four,” explained Plett. “We have also agreed to do a job factor rating review in the fourth year.”

She added that negotiations were delicate because any decisions made by the board would

ultimately be reflected in the budget, which is ultimately taxpayer money.

“We have to look at the big picture: where is the money coming from, being sensitive to our constituency and being fair to our employees, too,” Plett added.

At issue was that the custodial assistants working in the evening and making up the bulk of employees are paid, on average, between $1.80 and $3.50 less per hour than other classifications of Hanover School Division custodians doing similar work.

They were also paid significantly less than neighbouring unionized school divisions.

Hanover School Division is represented by the Christian Labour Association of Canada.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

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March 2014

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More Than Just News!

March 2014

Tougher Penalties in the Child Predators Act As the Member of Parliament for Provencher, I consider the safety of our children a top priority. To sexually abuse, a child is an abominable crime. The consequences for such a crime should match its heinous nature. That is why I am pleased that our Government introduced comprehensive legislation that better protects children from a range of sexual offences and exploitation at home and abroad.

Highlighted below are nine key measures included in Bill C-26, the Tougher Penalties for Child Predators Act: - Requiring those convicted of contact child sexual offences against multiple children to serve their sentences consecutively, one after another.

- Requiring those convicted of child pornography offences and contact child sexual offences to serve their sentences consecutively.

- Increasing maximum and minimum prison sentences for certain child sexual offences.

- Increasing penalties for violation of conditions of supervision orders.

- Ensuring that a crime committed while on house arrest, parole, statutory release or unescorted temporary absence is an aggravating factor at sentencing.

- Ensuring that spousal testimony is available in child pornography cases.

- Requiring registered sex offenders to provide more information regarding travel abroad.

- Enabling information sharing on certain registered sex offenders between officials responsible for the National Sex Offender Registry and at the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

- Establishing a publicly accessible database of high-risk child sex offenders who have been the subject of a public notification in a provincial/territorial jurisdiction to assist in ensuring the safety of our communities.

Our Government made a commitment in the 2013 Speech from the Throne to re-establish Canada as a country where those who break the law are punished for their actions, where prison time matches the severity of crimes committed and where the most vulnerable victims are better protected. The measures contained in this piece of legislation keeps this promise.

Child sexual abuse causes devastation to the lives of children and robs them of their innocence. I believe our most precious and most vulnerable members of society deserve a government that will protect them from predators. It is our duty to ensure that child sexual offenders are punished to the fullest extent of the law and that those laws reflect the harm and devastation caused by sexual predators. I am glad that our Government continues to implement legislation aimed at keeping our children safe.

I am interested in hearing from you on important issues like this one. You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204-326-9889. You may also write my office at 8-227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, e-mail me at ted.falk.c1@parl.gc.ca or visit my website at tedfalk.ca.

Foolish NDP Government The next legislative session opens on March 6, with an NDP budget presentation and will run until mid-June, representing one of the longest spring sessions in recent history.

Budgets should be a time when governments state what their priorities are; however, the NDP used the last two budgets to break major promises. In 2012, after they were re-elected on a no tax increase promise, the government instituted the biggest tax increases in a generation. Gasoline, home insurance and haircuts are all taxed at higher rates than before. Budget 2013 increased the PST on all items by 14 percent. This is a government that called the idea of a PST increase as “ridiculous” instead; they went back on their word.

This will be the NDP’s third budget since the 2011 election. During that election, the NDP promised to balance the books by 2014-15. Based on the government’s own reports and figures, we know that this pledge will be added to the list of broken promises by the NDP. This government makes promises to everyone, but breaks every single one.

In the 15 years that this government has been in place, we have seen legislative sessions become shorter and shorter. Last spring, they tried to push through several controversial pieces of legislation in one of the shortest legislative sessions on record and Manitobans told them that they had enough. This is a government that believes they don’t have to listen to the concerns of Manitoba.

Integrity is an important part of a government. Honesty is something that people expect from an elected government. When the government goes back on their word, not once, but twice, Manitobans start to understand that this government does not have the best interests of Manitobans at heart. This government is too embarrassed to run on their own record and would rather focus on the events of the past. That’s not leadership, that’s desperation.

The old saying goes, “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.” Fool me three times, you’re the NDP. Manitobans don’t deserve to be fooled. Manitobans deserve a government built on honesty and integrity, with a vision for the future. It’s time for a change.

I look forward to hearing from you with any questions or concerns you may have. I can be reached at my constituency office at 204-424-5406, my legislative office at 204-945-4339, or at dennis.smook@leg.gov.mb.ca.

St. Pierre-Jolys Welcomes New Councillor

The Village of St. Pierre-Jolys welcomed Raymond Maynard back to the council table.

Maynard returns to council after a three year hiatus. He sat on the Village of St. Pierre-Jolys council for eight years, prior to the 2010 municipal election. An avid volunteer in the community, he was part of the Frog Follies planning

committee for 15 years, five as President.

The Village of St. Pierre-Jolys became one councillor short in December when Guy Gosselin resigned from council after being acclaimed three years ago, citing “personal reasons” for his departure.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Pat Porter Active Living Centre offers programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and active living for older adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come and pay us a visit and consider participating in some of our programs. For more information drop by the Centre, Monday to Friday 9 am - 4 pm, call 204320-4600 or online patporteralc.com.

Membership is only $25 per year due by January 15 of each year for those 55 years of age and older. The fee after January 15 is $30. Join early and avoid the $5 late fee! Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice in business meetings, voting rights, and eligibility to serve on the board or committees.

Up and Coming Events and Monthly Programs: Wellness Expo: On Saturday, March 29 from 9:30 am - 5 pm. The Expo promotes a proactive approach to aging! Free Admission - Open to the Public - Free Lunch to those who register for presentations in advance by Monday, March 17. Confirmed topics and demonstrations to include the following: (more will be added) Bridgepark Manor, Dignity Memorial, Tai Chi, Foot Care, Diabetes, Yoga, Lyme Disease, Agape House. Registration forms and more information will be available at the centre. Contact Kathy 204-320-4603 to register.

Bingo: We will are hosting BINGO nights on Tuesdays, March 4 and 18.

Doors open at 6:30 pm and the games start at 7 pm. Please feel free to call the centre at 204-320-4600 for more information.

Afternoon Country Jam: On Thursday, March 20 from 1:30 - 4 pm. Come out and listen to some good old time country music. The cost is $2 in advance for members, $3 in advance for non-members and $4 at the door.

March Potluck: On Thursday, March 13. If you know that you would like to attend please call ahead and let us know what you would like to bring. Call 204-320-4600. As always needed are salads, casseroles, desserts and buns. Cost is $5. We will be ordering from Chicken Chef for our Potluck.

Fitness Classes: Low impact aerobics and strengthening fitness classes with instructor Shanley on Monday’s and Friday’s from 9:30 -10:30 am.

Drop in fee of $4.

P.A.C.E. PROGRAM: We are happy to announce that we will be offering the P.A.C.E. fitness program with our Urban Poling class on Thursday mornings. Cost is $2. We will be doing a half hour of P.A.C.E. and a half hour of poling. Classes start at 9:30 am. Call 204-320-4600.

Old Time Country Dance: With live Band – Small Town Limits - Friday, March 28 at 8 pm. Tickets available at the centre. Advanced tickets $10 for members, $12 for non-members and $14 at the door. Lunch at 10 pm.

Choir: Choir practice is every Wednesday at 10 am (excluding the summer months). New members are always welcome.

Computer Classes: Every Wednesday for 1 hour from 9 am - noon.

Contact 204-320-4600 to make an appointment.

Brain Injury Support Group Meeting: On Monday, March 31 at 7 pm.

Computer Lab: Need help with your computer skills? Labs are 1 hour long and available every Monday to Friday, 9 am - 12 pm and 1- 4 pm from 9 am - noon. Classes at 9, 10 and 11 am are 1 hour long. Cost $1. Contact 204-320-4600.

Foot Care: On the first Tuesday and Wednesday and third Tuesday of the month from 9 am - 2 pm. Run by a professional foot care nurse. Cost $30. Bring your own towel. Contact the centre to book an appointment.

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

Parkinson’s Support Group: Meets the last Friday of the month at 1 pm.

Wood Carving: Try your hand at our woodcarving. The group meets every Monday evening at 6 pm (excluding the summer months). The cost is $ 1 for the evening. Please bring your own supplies.

Weekly Programs: Monday 9:30 - 10:30 am Low impact fitness w/instructor 12 - 4:30 pm Drop-in Pool 1 - 4:30 pm Model Trains 1 pm Canasta 7 pm Tai Chi Tuesday 9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 2:30 - 4:30 pm Family Search Wednesday 8:30 - 9:30 am Urban Poling at Clearspring Centre 9 am - 12 pm Computer classes (call to register) 10 – 11 am Tai Chi 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Cribbage 1:30 – 4 pm Floor Curling 7 pm Old Time Country Band Practice Thursday 9:30 - 10:30 am P.A.C.E. Program and Urban Poling 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool 1 - 4 pm Whist 6 - 8 pm Family Search Friday 9:30 - 10:30 am Low impact fitness w/instructor 9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends 12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $5.50. Contact 204-320-4605 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.

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

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

March 2014

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Local Hunters Compete for Reality TV Hunting Show

By Marianne Curtis Four dedicated outdoorsmen from the southeast area are attempting to turn their love for hunting and everything outdoors into an opportunity to host a television series on Wild TV. Manitoba’s Team Caribou Country will be featured on The Hitmen - The Search competition as it takes to the airwaves on Wild TV at the end of March.

Best friends and business partners, Allan Saindon and Ron Rousset, joined by Paul Gauthier and Phil Arbez, will be one of eight teams competing for an opportunity to host a hunting show.

For the past twelve years, Saindon and Rousset have hosted hunting tours catering to Manitoba hunters from their outpost located at Bullock Lake.

They have teamed up with Gauthier and Arbez, pooling their passion for the outdoors, fishing and hunting into a formidable team, the only one representing Manitoba.

The team geared up and hit the wilderness filming actual hunts with narration. Their goal is not only to educate viewers on the vast diversity of what Manitoba has to offer, but to ultimately entertain. In the submitted footage, viewers can expect to find the team filming each other hunting black bear, elk, white tail deer, moose, caribou and more. An added feature is video featuring local youth and their experience.

“All four of us have been hunting from a young age. The heritage was passed down to us by our fathers,” explained Saindon, who, along with Rousset,

Members of Team Caribou Country - Allan Saindon, Ron Rousset, Paul Gauthier and Phil Arbez - are competing against seven other Canadian teams for an opportunity to host their own hunting show on Wild TV. Something as simple as a “like” on their Facebook page could help them win a spot for a Manitoba produced outdoors show.

video cameras, an investment the team hopes will pay off in the long run.

“We don’t know if they are going to use two hunts or eight [on air],” Saindon added but he knows they are guaranteed to be in four of the thirteen episodes. together.” Gauthier and Arbez, owns the outpost called Caribou Saindon’s interest in filming his also with decades of hunting Country Adventures, which hunts came from a recent offer experience, add their experience to incidentally is where they got their through Travel Manitoba. After name, Team Caribou Country. “Ron the mix. filming hundreds of hours of To be selected for the and I have been friends since 12 footage, Travel Manitoba bought and hunted together since we were competition the team submitted footage from ten hunts, all filmed some for a hunting promotional kids. We make a great team and it campaign. with high quality professional was only natural that we do this

“We would love an opportunity to really showcase hunting in Manitoba.”

Habitat for Humanity Looking for Grunthal Families

By Marianne Curtis Two families in need of housing will see themselves living in a brand home now that the Southeast Chapter of Habitat for Humanity has purchased land in Grunthal to build two single-family homes.

On April 7, families interested in the project are invited to a meeting where they can get more information on the project and fill out an application.

The two families will be chosen through a selection process after all applications are considered.

Sheri Bueckert, Chair of the Family Selection Committee for Habitat for Humanity Southeast, said that while the meeting is not until April, they want to give families a chance to prepare for the process.

“There has been a huge demand for housing in Grunthal and we expect quite a few families to apply,” added Bueckert. “By getting the word out early, we hope that more people apply.”

The Grunthal project will be the third build undertaken by the Southeast Chapter of Habitat for

Humanity in the last three years. This coming June, two families are expected to move into their new single-family dwellings in Richer. The previous year, two single mothers from Steinbach took up residence in a duplex in La Broquerie.

Angele Sobering with Habitat for

Humanity Southeast said families wishing to take part in the project are invited to attend the informational meeting on April 7 at the New Horizon’s Seniors Recreation Club in Grunthal starting at 7 pm.

To become a Habitat for Humanity

homeowner, the family has to demonstrate a need, have an ability to pay based on income and be willing to work alongside Habitat on the project. For example, single families need to put in 350 hours of sweat equity while a couple would have to put in 500 hours.

The Hitmen–The Search competition that highlights Canadian hunting experiences is expected to start airing in the next month in Canada. The winner will be given airtime on the Wild TV channel for their own show, but must organize their own sponsors and production work.

“We would love an opportunity to really showcase hunting in Manitoba,” Saindon added.

Once airing of the footage on Wild TV begins, voting will open to the public. Viewers have the opportunity to vote for their favourite team on The Hitmen The Search website. Facebook likes, twitter follows and team web page hits will also be part of the judging criteria.

You can get involved by looking for Team Caribou Country on Facebook, going directly to their website at cariboucountryadv.com or visit The Hitmen - The Search at hitmensearch.com.

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March 2014

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

New Restaurant Opens in Woodridge

By Marianne Curtis Just over two years after a devastating fire destroyed the Woodridge Inn, residents and visitors alike are celebrating their new community meeting place.

At the beginning of February, the Roadside Grille in Woodridge opened for business.

Construction of the building began over a year ago but it was not until the summer of 2013 that Nicky Thiessen moved onto the property and opened for business. While kitchen installations and interior finishing were being completed, Thiessen and her staff served customers from a mobile kitchen outside.

Two months ago, she was finally able to send the trailer away and open the doors to the community’s brand new restaurant and lounge.

“We are very happy to be here; this community has been without a restaurant for nearly two years,” stated Thiessen. “For many of the locals, having a place to go every day to see their friends and neighbours is a social event. Having a daily coffee and catching up keeps everyone who lives here connected.”

The construction of a restaurant and lounge in the centre of Woodridge took just over two years. On December 13, 2011, a fire levelled the restaurant and lounge leaving several people unemployed. Damages were estimated at about $1 million. Initially the owners planned to rebuild but costs exceeded their insurance policy and the plan was squashed.

For residents, the loss was significant; regulars, many who are older, no longer had a daily meeting place in the rural community. Several residents have attempted to fill in the need for a community meeting place by setting up chip-wagons and opening up the recreation centre for coffee and toast, but this was only a temporary solution.

Steinbach businessperson, Ron Loeppky, has been revitalizing properties in the community that he loves and encourages new people to settle in the area.

“Woodridge isn’t Woodridge without a restaurant,” stated Loeppky in an earlier interview. “For anyone who jumps on their sled in the winter and their motorcycle in the summer and wants to go for a ride, Woodridge is that place to go, and without a restaurant, Woodridge isn’t the same.”

Every winter the Woodridge Inn was a major pit stop for snowmobilers enjoying the pristine Sandilands Forest, but for the people in the area, this was more than a restaurant. Over the years, the restaurant had become the heart of the community that has a population of about 100 year-round residents.

Since Nicky Thiessen opened the doors of the Roadside Grille in Woodridge, traffic through the community has significantly increased.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

Woodridge Firehall to Open End of March Construction on the new fire hall in Woodridge is finally complete and the RM of Piney is in the final stages of getting the facility up and running.

According to RM of Piney Reeve Duane Boutang, other than a few electrical details the building is

complete.

“We recently purchased a water tanker from Ontario. We finally have all our vehicles, a rescue wagon, minipumper and a water wagon,” stated Boutang. “We are ready to go.”

Over the winter months, volunteer fire fighters have been getting ready with intensive training.

“We expect to be able to go into operation by the end of March,” Boutang added. “The people of Woodridge and St. Labre are very happy. They’ve never had fire

protection before.”

The RM of Piney has named Troy Pestrak as the new Chief for the Woodridge department. The municipality is looking at having one municipal fire chief who will oversee all three departments and naming a deputy chief for each individual location.

The Woodridge fire hall will be the third hall in the RM of Piney. The current stations are in Sprague and Piney.

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

SCU Selects New Prez

The Steinbach Credit Union Board of Directors has named Reg Penner as their new President and Board Chair. Penner has served on the board since 2001 and served as First Vice-President for the past 12 years.

Spring Break Out! Ages 5-12 will love Spring Break camp at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre. Camp runs three days Tuesday, April 1 – Thursday, April 3 from 9 am – 4 pm. Don’t miss the adrenaline rush - each day is infused with Music, Dance, Drama, Crafts and Sports… plus have a blast on our Community Scavenger Hunt! Space is limited - call now to register.

Yoga-size your Way to a Healthier You Spring Sessions starting soon at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre…

Try Easyoga! Simple, calming movements perfect for those who are new to yoga. Relax, breathe and let Easyoga bring balance to your day. Starting Thursday, March 20 Classes run 10 weeks on Thursday afternoons from 12 – 1 pm.

Explore the relationship between your breath, mind and heart with Gentle Hatha Flow Yoga. Enjoy the soft lighting of the relaxing studio atmosphere as you unwind at the end of your day. Session runs 10 weeks starting Tuesday, March 18 from 7:15 - 8:30 pm. Classes are instructed by Bettianne Jolicoeur, offering over 15 years of teaching experience. Limited spaces call now to register.

Gallery Season Event The biggest event of our Gallery Season - Join us on Friday, April 11 to check out the Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit and works by over 70 artists from south eastern Manitoba! These include paintings, photography, pencil drawings, pottery and more. Come celebrate with us at 7 pm at the Cultural Arts Centre Hall Gallery.

Volunteers wanted! Please email Pauline at visualarts@steinbachartscouncil.ca if you would like to help at the Opening Ceremony on April 11. Looking for hospitality and reception hosts.

Looking for youth Join the Creative Youth Council! Be a part of community events planned BY you and FOR you! Upcoming events include the Summer in the City Festival (Youth in the City zone) and our third annual Battle of the Bands.

Contact the SAC Office.

Summer in the City Looking for volunteers to help with backstage (set up and take down, technical crew) work with the Visual Arts Tent committee and 50/50 volunteers.

Arts for Tots Preschool Program Early Fall Registration starts Tuesday, April 1.

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

Performers and Visual Artists!

We are now taking applications for the KR Barkman Concerts in the Park series. These are free concerts in KR Barkman Park on Main Street, proudly sponsored by Barkman Concrete Foundation. Download application forms online - deadline is Friday, March 28.

Chair Covers for Rent Beautiful white chair covers to add that extra touch to your special event. Best prices in town - only $1.50/cover. Call for info.

Celebrate the Arts… 35 Years of Memories. The Steinbach Arts Council fundraising gala is coming up on Friday, May 2 at Friedensfeld Community Centre. Enjoy an exquisite evening of delicious food, sparkling jewels from our jewellery tombola and dancing. Cast your bid for original artwork in our Fine Art Auction. Save the date!

Treble Teens Alumni Seeking Alumni for the Treble Teens to perform at our 35th Anniversary Concert on Friday, May 23. Proposed rehearsal dates are May 15 and 22 and 1 rehearsal the day of the concert, May 23. Music selections will be emailed in advance. Please contact Liz at events@steinbachartscouncil.ca or call the SAC Office. We’re inviting all Treble Teens singers, crew, staff and volunteers from 1962-1989 to RSVP for a Reunion Brunch on Saturday, May 24. Fun and informal, the brunch starts at 11am at the Steinbach Arts Centre. Also, can you help? We are searching for costumes, photos, video clips and memorabilia.

Job Opportunities Looking for a Summer Camp Director and two Assistant Directors. Summer Arts Day Camps run Monday, July 7 – Friday, August 22 at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre, 9 am - 4 pm daily. Computer proficiency, strong organizational skills and good communication skills are required. An interest in Music, Dance, Drama, Visual Arts and Sports is an asset. Please send your resume to Cassandra at programs@steinbachartscouncil.ca by Monday, March 10.

Get Involved Get involved with the Arts and make a difference in your community!

Steinbach Arts Council is looking for volunteers for our Board of Directors, Exhibit Committee and Southeast Visual Arts Committee. Call 204-3461077 to find out more.

“This is a big responsibility and I have some pretty big shoes to fill,” said Penner. “I was expecting this, but I am honoured to be chosen. I have a big job ahead of me.”

Penner expects the transition from Vice-President to President comes with the responsibility that he will now lead everything and oversee the board and operations.

“For the most part the board will remain the same so it will be business as usual,” Penner added.

Russ Fast was named as First Vice-President and Henry Van de Velde as Second Vice-President.

March 2014 The decision was made shortly after former President Ted Falk officially resigned from the position at the recent annual meeting. Falk served as president of the board for 16 years before he was elected Provencher’s Member of Parliament during a fall byelection. He will remain on the board as a member but not hold an executive position.

At the recent Steinbach Credit Union’s annual membership meeting, attendees learned that the institution has surpassed $4 billion in assets. In 2013, assets grew by

9

$200 million. Despite the numbers, the outgoing President said that for the first time growth slowed down to single digits.

“We have a very strong loan growth at the 12 percent mark,” explained Falk. “Overall, growth was around the 5 percent mark.”

Falk said the return on investments has not been good so the Steinbach Credit Union spent last year focused on lending out money to members instead of investing.

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March 2014

Income Taxes: What You Don’t Know

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Getting your taxes done is more than just filling in the blanks. And yet that’s what many people do when they do it themselves using tax software or paper filing or even when they have their family member or neighbour or someone else looking after their income taxes.

You don’t know what you don’t know!

You may think you are saving money by not hiring a tax professional like myself, but I would almost bet it’s costing you even more!

Just in the past month I have met several new clients (and potential new clients), just by having a conversation. I ask some questions and it often ends with: “I think you have been missing out on some credits on your tax return.... would you like me to review your past few years and see if we can do some adjustments?”

Almost always the answer is yes. And about 99% of the time, I find them some past tax savings that we can request from CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) and make sure they get the best tax outcome possible for the current year and in the future.

My frustration is how do I get people like you to even give me a try? Come and see me even just every three years or so (there are some provincial credits that cannot be claimed after three years, unlike federal credits that can be claimed up to 10 years back).

Yes, of course there are some of you with straightforward taxes (just a few tax slips) that I cannot improve upon; you are limited in your tax deductions and/or tax credits.

But anyone who is 60+ or with high medical expenses I can probably help out. Or anyone with a senior in the family I can probably add some value (Manitoba Primary Caregiver Tax Credit).

Anyone with post secondary schooling I can probably help with: not just claiming the tuition, but ensuring the Manitoba Graduate’s Tuition Fee Income Tax Rebate (or advanced rebate) is claimed correctly. And many times those taking a trade at Red River College haven’t always claimed the EI and the tuition receipts properly.

Medical expenses continue to be misunderstood: not knowing all what can be claimed: premiums paid through work, pension, or privately; ALL out of pocket expenses not covered, travel health insurance premiums, laser eye surgery, travelling more than 40km for service/appointments you cannot get locally and more.

Senior assisted living rent and personal care home rent can be claimed as a medical expense (when approved for the disability tax credit); of course only if you have taxes payable and many lower income seniors do not.

Are you receiving a disability income through your employer? Did you know you could deduct the premiums if you paid for some or all of them yourself? Tax software or your neighbour won’t ask you that question.

Do you pay for a “lunch program” at school? Did you know this is considered child care and can be claimed?

Pension Income Splitting has been around since 2007 and most people have been getting it right, but I did meet someone last year who didn’t complete it quite right and was reassessed

by CRA for not doing it correctly. I sent in some adjustments and got them their money back.

If your head is spinning already, you need to come and see me!

Unfortunately the way our tax system works, it’s up to you to find out what you may be eligible for. That’s why I like to ask lots of questions and review past tax returns; especially of my new tax clients.

Anni Markmann is a Tax Professional, a Certified Financial Planner, and a Certified Professional Consultant on Aging living, working, and volunteering in our community. Contact her at 204.422.6631, anni@SteAnneTaxService.ca or 36 Dawson Road in Ste. Anne.

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Landmark Trucker’s Viral Video Nabs Dangerous Driver

By Marianne Curtis The dash cam video taken from a Landmark trucking company’s vehicle was instrumental in leading to charges against an Ontario truck driver. Earlier in March, Ontario Provincial Police charged an Ontario truck driver with dangerous driving and leaving the scene of an accident after an incident that could have killed a Plett Trucking truck driver.

Jenny Plett, from Plett Trucking in Landmark, confirmed that the driver of a semi that was nearly driven off the road when an oncoming truck passed a snowplow is one of their drivers.

“Yes, he’s an owner operator with us and Tim told me the first time that we watched the video, This dash cam shot shows how close a Plett that our driver really thought he Trucking driver came to being run off the road by was a dead man,” explained Plett. another driver while travelling through Ontario. The “Justice isn’t always served but video, shared on You tube, received over 2 million in this situation, social media hits. helped the good guy win.”

The incident took place January 4 along Highway 11 in Ontario. The OPP were called and the driver’s dashboard camera caught the entire incident on film.

“The driver [camera was mounted in his truck] was forced off the road and hit 19 highway posts before he was able to stop,” Plett added. “The guy who caused the accident didn’t stop and they weren’t able to identify the truck or driver through the video footage.”

Plett added that because the driver and truck could not be identified in the video, their driver would have been responsible for the deductible and all his expenses.

Without information to identify the other driver, the company uploaded the video onto You Tube, where it received over 2 million shares.

“Thanks to that video, our driver was told that the truck that caused the accident had been found and that charges are pending,” stated Plett. “Now the other guy and his insurance company will have to do what is fair.”

Officers were subsequently able to identify the vehicle and the driver of the southbound tractor-trailer unit.

“It was obvious from the video, which has garnered a lot of attention from social media sites, that this incident could have easily resulted in much more tragic circumstances,” stated Staff Sergeant Randy Bye, Detachment Commander, Nipigon OPP Detachment. “I am proud of the dedicated work from the members of this detachment that resulted in the successful conclusion of this investigation and grateful for the concern this case has received from the public.”

Because of this investigation the OPP have charges pending under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act against a 31-year-old male driver from Milton, Ontario.

Students Participate in RCMPTalks Session On Pink Shirt day, Grade 7 and 8 students from École Gabrielle Roy in Ile Des Chênes were among students from across Canada who participated in RCMPTalks session on bullying and cyber bullying.

The one-day event, which took place on February 26, consisted of a live, interactive video conference hosted by the RCMP’s Centre for Youth Crime Prevention.

Students from six different Canadian classrooms engaged in the discussion through social media.

The initiative by RCMP coincided with Pink Shirt Day, a day that promotes anti-bullying.

Special guest Nico Archambault, winner of season one of So You Think You Can Dance Canada, shared his experiences of being bullied at school and then responded to questions from participating students.

In honour of Pink Shirt Day, a day that promotes anti-bullying, the students wore wear pink tshirts to symbolize that bullying behaviour will no longer be tolerated.

March 2014

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Arrests Made in Ste. Anne Hotel Robbery Three people have been arrested in connection with an armed robbery that took place at the Ste. Anne Hotel early on February 26.

St. Anne Police Chief Marc Robichaud confirmed that a male and two females have been arrested in the RM of Ste. Anne.

Police were called to the Ste. Anne Hotel after the hotel had closed for the evening. The lone female employee claimed that a masked armed robber made off with an undisclosed amount of cash from

the Ste. Anne Hotel.

“Just before closing a male entered the hotel, produced a knife and demanded cash,” stated Robichaud.

“The female employee handed over the cash and was tied up.”

She later managed to get loose and contact police who attended immediately.

Thirteen hours later, the Ste. Anne Police, along with Steinbach RCMP arrested three people in connection with the robbery. All the stolen cash was recovered.

Chief Robichaud said, “This is an excellent example of police departments working together. The RCMP attended to assist us at the scene and we are in the rural area helping them with an arrest. It’s encouraging to see how well our two police departments work together.”

Robichaud said no further details could be released, as the investigation is ongoing.

No charges have been laid as of yet.

Olympic Golds Last month I was fortunate to have a lot of free time and was able to watch quite a bit of the 2014 Olympics held in Sochi, Russia. With athletes coming together from all over the world, this was an amazing event to watch.

I was going to list the events that I really enjoyed watching but I can’t think of a single one that wasn’t awesome!

Freestyle skiing and men’s moguls were great especially since Alexandre Bilodeau took home the gold for the second year in a row! I remember watching when he won his first gold back in Vancouver in 2010.

I was never a big fan of figure skating but when you see a pair of Olympians performing their routine with grace and beauty, you see the men lifting and spinning their female partners with amazing strength and the women using their core strength to remain in perfect positioning, well, even I have to admit to respecting their abilities.

Two of the events that I have always liked are the skeleton and the luge. Just think how much fun it would be to go sizzling down this icy track at 130-140 km with your face and body being mere inches away from the ice. Sounds great!

Any event that had to do with snowboarding automatically had my attention. It is a sport that I am glad to see at the Olympic level and I look forward to seeing it more in four years time. Just think how much crazier some of these athletes’ jumps, tricks and skills will be.

What can I say about the Canadian curlers other than that they were amazing. With both the men and the women winning gold, they were definitely a force to be reckoned with.

Speaking about forces to be reckoned with, did you see the hockey? If you didn’t then I’m sure that you heard about it. Now I’m not one of those hockey fans that sits in front of the TV watching an NHL game.

I don’t have a favourite team and I could care less what the scores were the night before. The exception to this comes around every four years. This Olympics my wife was surprised by the obsessiveness and the focussed attention that I was giving to our Women’s Canadian Olympic Hockey team. The men’s hockey was great too, but there was just something amazing about how the women played. To my watching eyes, it seemed like the women played a better, more intense game. It seemed like they played a game more on skill than on smashing the player with the puck into unconsciousness. Don’t get me wrong, these women could be aggressive and tough when they needed to be but it seems like they just showed more strategic thinking and heart for the game.

The 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics was a pleasure for me to watch and I’d like to give all the athletes, whether they came in 1st or 51st, a gold medal from me to them. Great job!

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

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March 2014

More Than Just News!

Niverville Athlete Earns Prestigious Scholarship

Fans and Beards Return to Festival of Friends

By Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis A Niverville athlete has been named as a recipient of this year ’s Dr. Dale Iwanoczko Memorial Vo l l e y b a l l Scholarship from the Manitoba High School Athletic Association.

On February 25, Jonathan Daman of the Niverville Panthers was named as one of five recipients of the Dr. Dale Iwanoczko Memorial Volleyball Scholarship for 2014.

Daman was captain of the Niverville Panthers boys’ volleyball team that advanced to the Provincial “AA” Championships. He is also Co-President of the student council and a member of the school’s honour roll.

When not playing volleyball, the Niverville Collegiate grade 12 student also participates in Soccer and Basketball, while also being very active in church activities.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Niverville Collegiate student Jonathan Daman accepts the Dr. Dale Iwanoczko Memorial Volleyball Scholarship from Don and Erna Iwanoczko.

He is hoping to attend Canadian Mennonite University and play for their Volleyball team next year.

The $1,000 scholarship is awarded annually to five players in the province. To be eligible for this scholarship a student must be proceeding to a post-secondary institution and have a minimum 65 percent academic average. The student must have proficiency in volleyball along with good academic standing, community activity involvement and citizenship are also considered.

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

Iwanoczko played volleyball with the University of Manitoba Bisons, where he was named a five-time All-Canadian. He obtained his medical degree from the University of Manitoba before passing away at the age of 30 from Hodgkin’s disease. A number of Dale’s friends have organized an annual golf tournament to raise funds for this scholarship named in his honour and memory.

After a one-year hiatus, fans of the region’s newest winter festival flocked to St. Malo when the annual Festival of Friends returned on February 14.

The return of the annual festival drew hundreds of participants to St. Malo for a spectacular celebration of culture, cuisine and traditions.

Festival of Friend’s committee Past winners of Canada’s Got Talent, Manitoba’s own Sagkeeng President, Georges Pageot, said Dancers, showed off their jigging talents for the crowd. that this year’s festival was a little different from other years.

“We did not set up the tent in the park as we do normally, instead we had a number of businesses in town open their doors to our weekend festivities,” explained Pageot. “We had some great entertainment, several new activities and we had a great turnout.”

Ice skating and cross-country skiing still took place in the park while various competitions and live entertainment took place in town.

For the first time this year, organizers introduced a new beard contest. Judging took place in two categories; the Long Time Voyageur is for those who already have established beards and Novice is for those who start with a clean-shaven face. Members of the Manitoba Facial Hair Club entered the beard-growing contest but no one could beat out area resident Mikel Derbowka who took home top prize.

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

Money raised during the festival is going towards the construction of a four-season shelter in St. Malo Provincial Park.

Members of the Manitoba Facial Hair Club had entered the beardgrowing contest but no one could beat out area resident Mikel Derbowka (second from left) who took home the top prize.

Hylife Buys La Broquerie Arena Naming Rights The La Broquerie Community and Recreation Centre expansion committee received a major boost in their fundraising campaign towards a $2 million expansion project at the community’s recreation facility.

Once the La Broquerie arena has expanded, it will be renamed as the Hylife Sports Complex as the result of an agreement with the municipality. Hylife Foods purchased the naming rights to the building for $100,000.

RM of La Broquerie Reeve Claude Lussier said that the contribution will go a long way towards helping raise the $400,000 community contribution needed for the project.

“They decided they were going to support the arena and hockey in the municipality,” explained Lussier. “They have always been very active in local hockey so this is exciting news.”

The RM of La Broquerie hopes that other donors in the municipality will come forward. Naming rights to various rooms throughout the expanded project are available until March 14.

“The project is moving forward so the more money we raise over the next four years, the less of a debenture we will have,” Lussier added. The municipality has capped the project at $2 million and at the end could see a $1.6 million

debenture, which will be repaid through tax revenue.

The arena expansion project will include five dressing rooms, improved lobby, canteen and community hall facilities and a community meeting room. It is expected to be done by the end of the year.

Hylife Helps with Hockey Tournament On the weekend of March 7 and 8, Hylife in La Broquerie will hold their fifth annual fundraising hockey tournament.

André-Michel Audette said the annual tournament has changed since its inception and is growing every year.

“In our previous years we have supported CancerCare MB, the Children’s Wish Foundation, SE Health’s Out of the Blue Program, the Alzheimer Society and the Heart & Stroke Foundation,” stated Audette. “In the past with all the donations collected we have raised over $100,000.”

This year all proceeds will be gifted to the Special Olympics Manitoba, the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba Inc. and the Parkinson Society of Manitoba during the Saturday supper event.

The 2-day hockey tournament will be held at the arena in La Broquerie.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

Marchand Grocery Store Re-opens

March 2014

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Niverville Limits Curb Side Garbage Pickup

By Marianne Curtis

Residents in Marchand are celebrating the re-opening of the town’s only general store and community post office after owners were forced to rebuild because of a devastating fire last May. photo by Marianne Curtis

By Marianne Curtis After eight months of hard work, the owners of the Marchand Grocery are thrilled with welcoming customers back into the community’s only store. On the first weekend of February, the community was taken by surprise when the owners opened the doors and welcomed customers into a brand new store.

The brand new Marchand Grocery is quite different from the old country store it replaced. The building is divided into three separate spaces in an effort to accommodate the grocery, the community post office and to provide rental space for local business, Evolve Green.

Rob Demasson, owner of the Marchand Grocery, said there is still some work that needs to be done, but he is open for business.

Initially he had hoped the project would be completed last fall, but the simple rebuild turned out to be more extensive than originally anticipated.

“I am glad that the big part is over and it is open; I can finally sleep again,” Demasson joked. “I still have a lot to do, and there is still a lot of stock to bring in; we have room for more variety and we try to bring in everything people ask for.”

Along with the new store, Demasson made the decision to upgrade services, including the fuel pumps.

“The biggest change for us is that we now have full service fuel, including premium and diesel,” added Demasson. “Once people realized that we re-opened we had a huge line-up; the community has been very supportive.”

To maintain the old country store facade Demasson added a wrap-around veranda, which will be furnished with picnic tables to encourage customers to sit down and visit.

“The store has always been a community meeting place; now people will have a place to sit and visit,” Demasson noted.

Demasson purchased the Marchand Store from previous owner, Wilfred Chabot, in the fall of 2011. On May 7, 2013, the store was destroyed after an electrical fire that originated in the attic destroying the landmark business.

Seine River Looks at Tax Increase Taxpayers living within the boundaries of Seine River School Division can once again expect a small tax increase when it comes to budget time.

Mike Borgfjord, the Superintendent of Seine River School Division, said the board is looking at a small increase but they do not have solid figures yet.

“The province gave us a 5.7 percent increase in funding which is significant, but the division is also looking at some expensive projects,” stated Borgfjord.

The increase was due to a higher student enrolment, which resulted in more costs for teachers and bus transportation.

One of the more expensive projects under consideration by the board includes improving the division’s wireless internet service.

Once final discussions are conducted, the Seine River School Division board may propose a 2.5 to 3 percent school tax increase.

The Town of Niverville has imposed a residential trash limit on residents after receiving notice of a significant tipping fee increase.

On February 7, MidCanada Environment Services Ltd. advised the Town of Niverville that effective March 1the solid waste tipping fee will increase from $33 per metric tonne to $49 per metric tonne. The fee increase will add approximately $17,300 to the cost of the removal of solid waste from the community.

Council conducted a comparative analysis on waste collection fees and disposal tonnage for 2012. Estimates for 2014 were prepared using this information.

According to council, the report notes that the cost of land fill waste collection and recycling has increased from $82.23 per residential unit in 2012 to $96.96 per residential unit in 2013. It is estimated it will reach $109.04 in 2014.

“As a result the current special levy rate of $80 per residential unit, which is found on the residential property tax statement, is woefully short of covering service costs,” stated Councillor Myron Dyck.

“Council decided on the bylaw instead of imposing these costs onto residents.”

Three options were considered including subsidizing residential waste collection from general revenues of the community, increasing residential waste collection rates to cover the cost and reducing the number of garbage bags or containers from two to one bag or container per residential unit.

After a lengthy discussion, council decided to limit the number of trash containers to one per residence.

“Option one seemed unfair because residents and businesses would have to arrange their own waste collection and cover the cost of their service. As a matter of principle, they should not be asked to subsidize residential waste collection services. Council remains of the opinion that waste collection fees should be set as close to cost recovery as possible. Option two was deemed not feasible because many residents actively recycle and currently only put out one container a week,” Council noted.

As a result, council gave first reading to a bylaw that will limit residential waste pickup to one bag or container a week. This can be increased by purchasing and attaching a surcharge sticker on any additional containers or bags.

Unlimited bags and bins of weekly recyclable waste will continue.

Recyclable waste shall be placed in blue recycling boxes or in semitransparent blue recycling bags.

The new policy is expected to be in effect starting April 1.

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More Than Just News!

March 2014

Senator Plett Accused of Illegal Smokes Seized near Unnecessary Travel Costs Deacon’s Corner

By Marianne Curtis Senator Don Plett has found himself in the middle of the senate expense account scandal after it was revealed that he has been expensing business-class flights for his wife.

Plett is one of the three top-spending Conservative senators who were recently revealed to have routinely purchased high-priced business class airfares and repeatedly used public money to take their spouses with them on trips to Ottawa, even while the Senate expense scandal was in full swing last fall.

The expenses were discovered amid voluntary online expense reports posted to Conservative senators’ websites for the same five-week period, from October 14 to November 17.

Out of the three top-spending senators, Donald Plett claimed the second-highest amount of money on travel during the five-week period. The cost of airline tickets between Winnipeg and Ottawa purchased by Plett ranged from $1,300 to as high as $3,000 totalling just over $12,000. He also flew his spouse to Ottawa using public money three times at a total cost of nearly $6,000.

“I will be audited along with all my other colleagues, so I am not going to comment until after the audit is complete,” Plett said in an interview. “I’ve been here for four and a half years and it is a fairly complex system at times and certainly I will not comment on whether there have been some mistakes made, but I will not have intentionally done anything wrong.”

Senate travel rules restrict the number of flights a senator can take each year, but place no limit on how much a senator can spend on each airline ticket.

According to the Senators’ Travel Policy adopted in 2012, senators are allowed to fly business class.

They are also warned to use good judgment.

“Spending public funds on travel is a sensitive matter and sound judgment must be exercised when travel-related decisions are made,” the policy states.

“It is expected that decisions to incur travel expenditures will be made with due regard to the need, frequency, cost and purpose as it relates to a senator’s parliamentary functions.”

The policy allows spouses and family members to travel with senators to Ottawa in business class and at taxpayer expense for “family reunions” after a lengthy time apart.

The pricey travel came at the same time as senators were debating whether to suspend Pamela Wallin, Mike Duffy and Patrick Brazeau for questionable spending practices.

Plett was not in favour of suspending the three senators whose fate was being debated at the time.

The other two senators in the top three include Senator Scott Tannas of Alberta and Senator Don Meredith from Toronto.

At the beginning of February, Falcon Lake RCMP along with the members of Manitoba Finance Special Investigation Unit seized 858,800 contraband cigarettes along with a vehicle and a trailer.

Around 4:30 am on February 7, Manitoba Finance investigators, RCMP officers from the “D” Division Traffic Services Roving Unit and the Falcon Lake detachment, stopped a vehicle pulling a trailer westbound on Hwy 1 near the junction of Hwy 207.

With search warrants in hand, RCMP searched the vehicle and seized 858,800 cigarettes of mixed brands not marked or stamped for Manitoba tax purposes.

Because of finding the contraband tobacco products, the vehicle and trailer are subject to a 30-day impoundment period.

Charges of possession of non-Manitoba marked cigarettes under the Manitoba Tobacco Tax Act and the Tax Administration and Miscellaneous Taxes Act are pending against a 67-year-old male and a 32-year-old male, both from Fort Alexander.

The men face fines of $1,000 to $10,000 and/or up to six months in jail, as well as a triple tax penalty of $747,156. Manitoba stood to lose $249,052 in tax revenues should this tobacco have reached the black market.

The individuals may also face charges under the federal Excise Act (2001), as none of the product seized complied with the required federal marking regulations.

Keepin’ The Beat My last two articles dealt with the health benefits of mindfulness and laughter. Today I want to write about another way that brings great spirit and happiness to our lives, the benefits of music.

I don’t know anyone who doesn’t enjoy a good tune or song, love a great band, or totally relaxes at a party where there is someone with instruments. Music can express joy, create excitement, emit sadness, show anger, put a smile on your face, put a tap in your toe and may put a tear in your eye. Music passes all barriers of language, religion, or physical abilities or disabilities.

Music truly is miraculous.

When I was a teacher I used music to connect kids to many topics, but the subject that seemed to have the most impact with music was poetry. So many people have an aversion to poetry but if you look at the words in songs, you will realize that you are actually listening to and enjoying poetry in musical motion. By using music, the students learned to love poetry. Music really is the poetry of life.

During Festival de Voyageur last month, I was blessed with an invite to attend the Fiddling Contest. I wanted to hear and watch 13year-old Danele Dequier, who has been playing violin for over four years. This young lady from Ste. Anne has entered five contests because she loves to perform and share her gift of music. Even at this young age, Danele has discovered a secret to happiness. She has been singing since birth, played guitar and drums for a couple of years and played piano since she was 5 years old. Watching her and all the other contestants compete, I was aware that everyone in the venue was receiving a precious gift. The contestants were giving out their prescription for a healthy life. Deep within their souls was a desire and a purpose to make others happy. The giving made the giver even more blessed. It takes courage to walk onto a stage and give all you have. I admire Danele and the others for being so brave.

On that same day a woman, named Alice Herz-Sommer, age 110, passed away. She was the oldest survivor of the Holocaust, a passionate piano player to the end. She said that the power of

music saved her life and the lives of others during those horrid years. Until her last days, full of spunk and spirit, she honoured the classical composers by playing their works every day. To see her and learn more, go to Alice Herz-Sommer on You Tube. She is and was an amazing example of the therapeutic value music can have in one’s life. Is her longevity a testimony?

You don’t need to be a musician to allow the gift of music into your heart. Some of us just sing along. Some of us hum. Some of us just tap our toe. Some of us just listen intently. There is always a human reaction to music. Babies can be calmed. The depressed can be uplifted. The angered can be soothed. Those with dementia and Alzheimer’s can momentarily be responsive. Autistic children have been known to become more tactile and communicative. Those with tension and stress can relax. Music really is magic!

The beat of the music connects to the beat of your heart. The beat of your heart connects to the beat of your soul. Your spirit comes alive. With each note, you blissfully become a part of a deep connection with life.

So, I say to all my Dear Readers, for your health, for your happiness and to cure any ailments of the soul, invite as much music into your days as you possibly can. Let music be the cure for everything. Turn up your favourite tunes. Get to concerts. Learn to sing and dance more. Take up learning to play an instrument. Join a choir. Whatever it takes, you’ll be ‘Keepin’ the beat’ to life.

I wish you all good health, and good music.

Raylene Snow is a health advocate, retired teacher and owner/operator of Raylene’s Wellness Spa located south of Ste. Anne on Hwy. 210 S. You can reach her at 204- 422-6234.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Vita School Hosts Namesake Bicentennial Birthday

By Marianne Curtis On March 7, a very special bicentennial birthday party is taking place at Shevchenko School in Vita. The public is invited to the school for an open house to celebrate the bicentennial birthday of the school’s namesake, Taras Shevchenko.

“We invite community members and former staff and students to come out and celebrate the life of Taras Shevchenko and connect again with the history of our school and community,” invites Aaron Klassen.

The program, which starts at 1 pm, will consist of presentations by Dr. John C. Lehr, of the University of Winnipeg, and Father Roman (Ron) Bozyk, of St. Andrew’s College in Winnipeg, traditional Ukrainian dancing by Susdyka and Zvizda, readings of Shevchenko’s poetry and birthday cake.

Taras Shevchenko was chosen as the namesake for Vita’s school because of his significance to Ukrainian history. He was a poet and artist born March 9, 1814 into a serf family in the Ukraine. After his parents died, Shevchenko was taken away by his master, Baron Engelhardt, to be a kitchen boy and lackey. It was here that his master realized that Shevchenko had artistic talent and sent him to the Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg with the intent of Shevchenko becoming his court artist. At the Academy, other artists banded together and paid for his freedom.

At the Academy Shevchenko discovered his gift for writing poetry. It’s through his poems that Shevchenko had the most influence on Ukrainian literature, language and culture. He wrote his poems in the Ukrainian language, even while they were under attack by the

On March 7, Shevchenko School in Vita will be celebrating their namesake, Taras Shevchenko’s 200th birthday.

ruling Russians. The themes of his poetry appealed to the large serf population of the Ukraine. Shevchenko became a national hero and continues to have a large influence in the Ukraine and abroad.

Ritchot Chamber Presents First Networking Event The newly formed Ritchot Chamber of Commerce is inviting everyone to come out and see what the area has to offer when it comes to local businesses.

The inaugural event’s theme is geared towards bringing business owners together to share who they are and what services or products they provide. Anyone with a business, corporation or firm, including individuals, non-profit organization and Friends of the Chamber can attend to learn more about the region’s business community.

Since the Ritchot Chamber of Commerce officially organized in December over 30 businesses from Ile des Chênes, Grande Point, Ste. Agathe, St. Adolphe, Glenlea and other small communities have joined.

You do not have to be a chamber member to attend. However,

anyone with a business, corporation or firm can sign up as a member of the Ritchot Chamber of Commerce. Individuals, nonprofit organization and Friends of the Chamber are two other categories of membership that non-businesses can sign up for as a member.

The event, called Exposed: Introducing Your Business to Others, is taking place Tuesday, March 25, at the Ste. Agathe Hall

in Ste. Agathe from 7 - 9 pm. Come for some refreshments and introduce your business to others in an interactive networking opportunity and bring business cards. There is no cost but registration is encouraged. Please RSVP to Lesley at cedo@ritchot.com or 204-803-2871.

To find out more about the Ritchot Chamber of Commerce or businesses within the area visit ritchotchamber.ca.

March 2014

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Steinbach Recruiting Storm Watchers

By Marianne Curtis Manitoba is still buried in a deep freeze but the City of Steinbach is looking towards summer by putting out a call for volunteers interested in participating in the community’s storm watcher program.

The City’s Storm Ready Team is looking for additional volunteers to act as weather spotters for the coming storm season. As spotters, volunteers become the community’s eye on the sky for severe weather, such as tornados.

Denis Vassart, Steinbach’s Emergency Planning Coordinator, said they have 22 volunteers but are still looking for more.

“We would like to add a few more team members and have a few more spares,” explained Vassart. “Just to be clear, we are storm watchers, not storm chasers.”

Spotters must be residents of Steinbach or live within a 10 km radius of the city.

Each team consists of four members and is ‘on call’ for one week per month during the months of May through September. Volunteers are provided training by Environment Canada as well as guidelines on how to report a sighting.

When they are needed, volunteers are notified and asked to watch the sky for signs of severe weather developing. They then contact the Emergency Operations Team and Environment Canada to report it. Spotters also play a significant role should a tornado touch down by conducting a preliminary evaluation and report it so that a plan of action can be made and the public informed.

“We cannot control the weather, but we can help our community be better prepared by providing information on what to do during a severe weather event,” Vassart added. “Our group watches the radar and when something gets tracked towards our city, they mobilize and head out so they can see the sky and try to give us a heads up if hail, severe winds or a tornado is coming.”

The storm watching team will be active from April 30 to September 24 but the team will be busy training in the next few weeks.

Anyone interested in volunteering can call the City of Steinbach’s Emergency Planning Coordinator, Denis Vassart, at 204-392-5996 or dvassart@steinbach.ca.

Training is provided.

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March 2014

Winter’s Annual Actif Epica Challenges Athletes

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Rat River Supports Doctor Recruitment The Rat River Health Commission issued a statement after Southern Health told media that Vita’s Emergency room is not being affected by the recent opening of a medical clinic in Grunthal.

A spokesperson for the Rat River Health Council said that in its efforts to have a stable medical clinic, able to accommodate the majority of residents in the De Salaberry District Health Centre region, the Rat River Health Council understands and supports Southern Health’s approach in recruiting physicians ready to provide care in a primary care environment as well as hospital, emergency room and personal care home.

“Every day we witness the challenge physicians face, when there is not enough

physicians to share the responsibility of covering care needs in the hospital, emergency room, and personal care home,” said the Rat River Health Council. “This contributes to the continuous come and go of physicians.

Continuity of care is the key to helping people stay healthy. We support and encourage a system that works towards patients needs first, so he or she does not have to keep telling their story over and over again.”

Southern Health has struggled for over a year to find suitable doctors for the Vita and District Health Care Centre.

Meanwhile, privately owned medical clinics have popped up in a number of communities, including Grunthal and Ile Des Chênes.

Crown Appeals Acquittal of Lorette Driver A Lorette businessman is back in court on March 24 after the Crown filed an appeal to overturn a judgement made last year which saw him acquitted of dangerous driving.

Last July, Manitoba Justice filed a last minute appeal in the case of Mitchell Blostein saying the judge “erred in his judgement” after the 70-year-old was acquitted.

A month earlier, there was a brief trial where Blostein faced charges of dangerous driving causing death. The charges stemmed from the accidental death of 21-year-old Brittany Murray on October 10, 2010.

The judge acquitted Blostein partially based on witness testimony that placed part of the responsibility on the flagger and her employer. The victim was found wearing ear buds and an IPod was found nearby when rescue personnel arrived.

A Humbling Responsibility Stephan Graupner, from St. Malo, was the first of five runners to cross the finish line.

By Marianne Curtis Despite the challenges of a brutal winter and large volumes of snow, organizers of this year’s Actif Epica outdoor winter race are thrilled with the success of this year’s event.

The one-day winter adventure, which took place February 15, consisted of a 130-kilometre bike challenge which began in St. Malo, travelled along the Crow Wing trail and ended in St. Boniface. A majority of the trail took place along the Crow Wing Trail, which goes through the RM of De Saleberry, the Town of Niverville and the RM of Ritchot.

Ian Hall, one of the organizers, said that this year was the events biggest, but it also brought the biggest challenges.

“This year’s edition had much more snow than past races, with more variable snow conditions. Firm drifts that runners and cyclists could stay on top of in some places, bottomless powder in others and a wind that started as a tailwind but swung to the north almost as soon as the race was underway,” stated Hall.

Fifty-seven individuals signed up for the race, including 13 runners and 44 cyclists who took on either an 80-km run or a 130-km bike ride. Last year’s event drew 42 participants; the first year there were 32.

Of the 44 cyclists who started in St. Malo at 7 am, 11 did not finish the race. First place finishers JP Peters and Dan Lockery were the first two cyclists to cross the finish line 3.5 hours later than last year’s first place finisher was in 6 hours and 10 minutes.

Stephan Graupner, from St. Malo, was the first of only five out of 13 runners to finish the race. It took him 16 hours and 43 minutes.

Hall added a special thank you to the host communities that opened their doors to the group, including the St. Malo and Festival des Amis, St. Pierre Museum, Providence College, Niverville Arena and St. Adolphe Bible Fellowship Centre. The finish line was celebrates in St. Boniface at the Festival du Voyageur.

Actif Epica brought together riders from communities throughout Manitoba plus participants from Minnesota, Delaware, Colorado, Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Fifty-seven cyclists took on the frozen prairies in this year’s Actif Epica, a 130-kilometre adventure that started in St. Malo and ended in St. Boniface.

These questions have often been asked, “How come Christianity is so full of rules, guidelines and do’s and don’ts? Why should a Christian have a separate set of guidelines to follow than the non-Christian? Can’t we all just follow the Golden Rule and be O.K.? Why should the Christian live to a higher standard than the non-Christian?

To answer these questions we must consider what happens when a person becomes a Christian. First, you must realize your lost hopeless condition before a holy and righteous God. Then believe that Jesus Christ died on Calvary 2,000 years ago and shed His blood to make perfect payment for all your sins. When you pray, believing in your heart, confess your lostness to God and ask Him to forgive you and save your soul, He will respond. He will give you a new spiritual heart and change you instantly from a non-Christian to a Christian.

The moment this transaction takes place in your life, God puts His Holy Spirit inside you. (John 14:16,17, I Thessalonians 4:8, I John 3:24, 4:13) Now you have God living in you and He says He will never leave you (Hebrews 13:5). Every Christian is the temple (dwelling place) of God. I Corinthians 3:16 says, “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” It’s an awesome thought to realize God, Himself, lives inside you. But, along with this special privilege comes a humbling responsibility.

People judge other people by their living quarters. If you let the grass grow in your lawn, the weeds take over your garden and the outside of your house fall apart; then people who pass by will think the tenant is lazy and irresponsible.

When you drive by a yard where everything is in disarray, one of the thoughts you have is, “I sure wouldn’t hire them to run my business!” Also as a veterinarian, I used to judge the character of pet owners by how well they tried to take care of their animals. So when people look at a Christian, they judge the tenant (God the Holy Spirit) by what they see and hear on the outside. We may say we love God, reverence, obey and serve Him, but if our actions say otherwise then we are sending the wrong message to the world and God is not pleased. Therefore as Christians, we need to be careful what we put into our body and what we do with it.

All of us misrepresent God at one time or another and God realizes our human weaknesses. But if our heart’s desire is to honour and please God, then God will help us be a better testimony for Him. So every Christian should do some honest soul searching and determine what kind of Christian he/she wants to be for God and then ask Him to give you the strength and wisdom to accomplish that goal.

Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthened me.” What kind of ‘temple of God’ are you portraying by your life? May God bless you as you strive to be more like Him!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

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March 2014

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Ordinary People Mark 1:16-20... 16) As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 17) “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” 18) At once, they left their nets and followed him. 19) When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. 20) Without delay, he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him. (NIV) In our text, you and I see Jesus walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee. However, we soon realize this was more than a just a simple casual afternoon stroll. Christ was looking for people. He found Peter and Andrew, James and John. They were fishermen. They were just ordinary people.

They were not trained in the Jewish religion as Scribes or Priests. They were not Rabbis. They were just common folk, people like you and me.

But, apart from all the others whom Jesus could have called, He called these. It is as if Jesus wanted to make a statement to all of us that anyone can be used by Him for His purpose. Here He found four and He called them.

1 Corinthians 1:26... God delights in calling ordinary people when He says, “brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth.” (NIV) In other words, those characteristics, which the world prides, itself in having, God is able to create in the most humble of us.

The kind of people He delights in using, just ordinary people. The Gospel is to the poor, the broken-hearted, the needy, and the sinful. It is not for the proud who say they are without sin; but it is for those of us who hunger and thirst for righteousness.

1 Peter 1:2... Who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance. (NIV) Peter is saying that we are members of this chosen group; we are the Chosen People of God. Surely, there can be no greater mark of respect and privilege in the entire world than to be selected by God. However, we must also recognize our responsibility. God always selects people for His service. The honour that He gives to us is that of being used for His purposes. It is precisely here that we often fail. It is a constant struggle for us to make sure that we do not fail. We sometimes feel we are exiles in this world. We know we cannot withdraw from this world and we should not. It has been wisely said that the Christian must be apart from the world but never unapproachable, never detached from it.

The Christian is to be consecrated by the Holy Spirit. I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength, believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour. For the Christian the Holy Spirit is essential to every part of the Christian life and every step in it. It is the Holy Spirit who awakens within us the first faint longing for God and righteousness. It is the Holy Spirit who convicts us of our sin and leads us to the Cross where that sin is forgiven. It is the Holy Spirit who enables us to be freed from the sins which have us in their grip and to gain the qualities which are the fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22-25). It is the Holy Spirit who gives us the assurance that our sins are forgiven and that Jesus Christ is Lord. The beginning, the middle and the end of our Christian lives are the work of the Holy Spirit.

As Christians, we have been chosen for obedience, for faithfulness to our call. Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, Christians are called into a new relationship with God. We believe and have the assurance from the Holy Spirit in our heart that the sins of the past are forgiven and that we now pledge our obedience until Christ calls us home.

Would you pray this prayer with me? “Lord Jesus, come into my heart.

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

I Love To Read Month

IIn celebration of February being ‘I Love to Read Month’, Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen donated books to the library of each elementary school in the Steinbach Constituency and read to students in several of the schools. Here, together with his son Malachi, they present books to Woodlawn Elementary School Librarian Sandy Loewen.

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March 2014

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

Giroux Seine River Wildlife Association Annual Trophy/Banquet Night - Our annual awards and banquet evening will be held on Saturday, March 29, at Giroux Hall. Catered meal and music

by F&R Music. Silent auction fundraiser. Contact Marc Gagnon 204-381-4007 or Ted Pott 204-346-0717 or any other director to get tickets prior to evening. Cost is $25 or $10 under 14 years.

equipment, foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yard maintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games. Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan, 204-424-5285 or labseinerss@gmail.com.

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

Grunthal Swim, Baseball, Softball and Soccer Registration – On Wednesday, March 5 at New Horizon’s, 109 Main Street from 4 - 8 pm. Contact Carol at 204-434-6750 or 204-326-3570.

Lorette Bud, Spud and Steak - Join Tache Community Day Care for our annual fundraiser on Saturday, March 15, at the Dawson Trail Motor Inn. Tickets $20 ea and available at Tache Daycare.

Contact 204-878-2286 to purchase tickets.

Hadashville Tae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the Hadashville Community Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 years old to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, great stress release and have an excellent workout at the same time. Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Ask about 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 or KSTA.academy@gmail.com.

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

Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) – Volunteer opportunities.

If you go for walks, bike rides, jogs or even just drive around the community, please put on a COPP vest and show your support or help with administrative duties. Can you donate an hour per month?

Contact Trevor, 204-955-3434 Lorettecopp@gmail.com.

New Horizons Seniors - Play cards, Scrabble, Wii and more.

Drop in Tuesdays 1-5 pm at Foyer Notre Dame Lorette 12 St.Amant Ave. Contact Iris 204-878-3552.

Mitchell Soccer Registration – On Thursday, March 27, from 7 - 9 pm at the Mitchell Elementary School. Contact Char at 204-346-1575.

Breakfast and Social - Every Tuesday morning, 7:30 - 9 am except the last Tuesday of the month when the social is held Kleefeld instead. Lunch starts at noon at the Mitchell and Area Seniors Baseball Registration - On Thursday, March 13 from 6 – 8 pm Centre. Contact 204-326-6944. at the Kleefeld Recreation Building. Contact Rick Roberts at baseball@kleefeldpark.ca. Please return any jerseys/pants New Bothwell on registration night.

Winter Carnival - Starts Friday, March 7 to Saturday, March 8 at the park. Crib tournament, cost $20/team as well as youth Soccer Registration - On Tuesday, April 8 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm night. The annual sponge hockey tournament is on Saturday, at the Kleefeld Recreation Centre - 100 Park Avenue. a Chili/Soup Cook-Off. Pancake breakfast starts at 8 am.

Registration fees are $20 per child and include soccer shirt Evening events include the candy auction, grocery scrambles, and wind-up. Contact Dave Dueck 204-377-4177 or Mike silent auction and much more. See newbothwell.com.

Peladeau 1-204-377-4808, soccer@kleefeldpark.ca.

Niverville Community Playgroup - for parents, caregivers and children GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced the ages 0-5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs loss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learn and snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the about the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to register Kleefeld Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013. or go to Nivervillegriefshare.com.

La Broquerie HyLife Fun Days - Annual Vendor Sponsored Hockey Tournament. A two-day hockey tournament at the La Broquerie arena from Friday, March 7 – Saturday, March 8. Visit during the games and our supper on Saturday to present funds raised for charity groups. All proceeds gifted to Special Olympics Manitoba, Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba Inc., and the Parkinson Society of Manitoba.

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

Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in the lower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62 4th Avenue S.).

Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, along with a large open space for the kids to play while the moms visit. Contact Karen at klenzrpeters@hotmail.com.

Piney Bingo - Every 2nd Friday.

Minor Baseball Registration - On Wednesday, March 12 from 5 – 7 pm at the La Broquerie Arena - Community Hall (upstairs) Prawda Contact Louis Côté @ 204-424-5981.

Circuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cool down and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, clean Art Expo & Wine & Cheese – On Friday, March 14 starting from runners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondays 7:30 pm at the Centre d’amitié. Local artists displaying their and Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. Contact pieces while you enjoy samples of wine and New Bothwell Wendy 204-348-2433. cheeses. Free admission. Cost to sample the different wines.

This is a come and go event. Contact Annette Tétrault 204- Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am at 371-6982, cclabroquerie@gmail.com. the Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacks provided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

Wii Love Seniors Bowling Challenge 2013-2014 - 5 challenges in different towns including La Broquerie, Lorette, Richer Ste-Anne and St. Adolphe and then one more day of fun to Seine River Services for Seniors - Tai Chi – On Thursday at 6:30 end it all. Challenges are on Wednesdays from 1 - 3 pm. pm at the Richer School, Gym. Free. Instructor Sara Trudeau.

Refreshments provided. We ask for a donation of a Loonie Seniors are encouraged to consult with a doctor before starting each event. Beginners welcome. Contact Juliette 204-424- this program. For all programs, you must register with Seine 5285 or Denise 204-883-2880.

River Services for Seniors – Contact Juliette Rowan Community Resource Coordinator at 204-424-5575 for Richer services or Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de email labseinerss@gmail.com.

Santé from Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Services and programs for seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

Richer Recovery AA - Group meets every Thursday and Saturday the province. Attendees will hear from expert speakers about from 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Lee at 204- marketing, creating innovative attractions and promotions, 451-0255. branding their business, pricing their products and production information. Opportunity for networking with members. Contact Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey Pchajek Karen Walker Chair, Direct Farm Marketing Conference at 204Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides 821-5322, karen.walker-tibble@gov.mb.ca. scholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduating grades 8 and 12. Children Under 14 must be accompanied by Steinbach & Area Garden Club - On Monday, March 10 at 7 pm an adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Open at the Mennonite Heritage Village. The Best Fruit Trees & at 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club 22 Dawson Rd. in Richer. Shrubs for Your Landscape with Sheldon Falk, owner of Falk’s MGCC License # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422- Nursery. New! Have your gardening questions answered in a 5243 or doreen@spmf.ca.

Gardening Q and A segment! Everyone welcome! Door prizes!

Refreshments! $5 non-member fee. Contact Sprague sagardenclub.com.

Sprague & District Historical Museum Dinner & Dance – Held in March - TBA. Contact 204-437-2284, 204-437-2060 or Hanover Soccer Free Club Coaching Clinic – On Saturdays, rmofpiney@wiband.ca.

March 8 and 15 from 12 – 4 pm at the Clearspring Middle School Gym. For coaches of children under age 9 groups.

Bingo - Every 2nd Wednesday.

Email to register. Contact Jackie Anderson, jaxbakx@gmail.com 204-381-1030.

St. Adolphe Wii Love Seniors Bowling Challenge 2013-2014 - 5 challenges WBN Networking Lunch – On Wednesday, March 12 from in different towns including La Broquerie, Lorette, Ste-Anne 11:30 am - 1 pm at Chicken Chef, upper level, 365 Main St. and St. Adolphe and then one more day of fun to end it all. Our Staff from the Golden West Radio Station will tell us about next challenge on Wednesday, January 15, 2014 in St. Adolphe non-traditional ways to get media attention. Members and at Le Club Amical - 344 Main Street. Challenges are on future members welcome. Contact and RSVP by Monday, RSVP Wednesdays from 1 - 3 pm. Refreshments provided. We ask for to tracey.drabyk-zirk@gov.mb.ca. a donation of a Loonie each event. Beginners welcome. Contact Juliette 204-424-5285 or Denise 204-883-2880.

Children’s Author - Dan Syvestre Presentation at the Library from his first book, On Thursday, March 20 from 7 – 8 at the St. Malo Jake Epp Public Library, “The Great Grocery Getaway.” Inspired Family Hockey Tournament – On Friday March 14 – Sunday, by his 2-year old Australian niece who loves food. It’s about March 16. Tournament prizes, Beer Garden, 50/50 draw and vegetables and condiments who decide to break out of the much more. fridge. The book is available for purchase and the author will sign. Free cookies and punch.

St. Pierre-Jolys Spring Pie and Coffee Kick Off - We will be having the HELP MHV Founder’s Night – On Saturday, March 22 from 7 – 9 pm (Canada Food Grains Bank) on Sunday, March 30 at the Sugar at the Mennonite Heritage Village. Celebrate With us as we Shack in St Pierre-Jolys at 2 pm with a special speaker. honour those who have contributed significantly to the founding and making of MHV. Includes refreshments.-Donations Sugaring-Off Festival - On Saturday, April 12 - Sunday, April accepted. Contact Natashia Lapeire 204-326-9661 ext. 228, 13 from 10 am - 4 pm at Musée de Saint Pierre Museum, 432, natashial@mhv.ca. rue Joubert Street. Free Admission. Historical Interpretations start at 11 am - 3 pm, Maison Goulet circa 1890, the only Call Out - K.R. Barkman Concerts in the Park season again! We historical ‘living’ building in the province, great traditional are looking for Local Performers and Visual Artists – Musicians, food & music, maple sugar production and on Sunday at 2- 4 Bands, Singers, Dancers, Visual Artists. Deadline to apply is pm Traditional Fiddling Competition.

Friday, March 28. Concerts run Thursdays to Sundays from May 29 – June 29. Contact steinbachartscouncil.ca, email to Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression support events@steinbachartscouncil.ca or drop off at the Steinbach th group meetings held on the 4 Tuesday of every month at 7 Cultural Arts Centre, 304 Second Street. pm. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital. Contact Judy Dunn 444-5228.

Wellness Expo - On Saturday, March 29 from 9:30 am – 5 pm at 10 Chrysler Gate, Pat Porter Active Living. A pro-active Ste. Anne approach to aging. Free Admission to all. Free lunch to those Seine River Services for Seniors – Invite to all seniors interested who register for presentations in advance before Monday, March in the Wii Bowling game to come, try it out and have fun. On 17. Topics and demonstrations include Bridgepark Manor, Monday at1 pm, at Le Club Jovial. Contact Juliette Rowan at Dignity Memorial, Tai Chi, Foot Care, Diabetes, Yoga, Lyme 204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for local Disease, Agape House. Registration forms available at the services or e-mail labseinerss@gmail.com. centre.

Contact Kathy 204-320-4603 programs@patporteralc.com.

Ste. Geneviève Library Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the Community Rotary Fund Raiser – On Thursday, April 3 from 6:30 – 9 pm Centre on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, from 6:30 at the Mennonite Heritage Village. Contact Dennis Schroeder - 8 pm. Selection of books in both French and English, all 204-326-9565. ages. Over 21,000 books including audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, large print books and magazines plus they can import books International Cooking Class – Every second Tuesday, from 6 from any library in Manitoba. Special requests can be made to – 8 pm. Eastman Immigrant Services has invited immigrant the librarian, Brandi Schmitz at 204-878 - 9488, newcomers to teach a cooking class. Cook a delicious meal. bibliotachelibrary.com or in person.

Hands on opportunity to prepare new and delicious foods, go home with recipes, know how & insider secrets along with Steinbach having the chance to enjoy new friends in our community.

SRSS Film Festival - On Thursday, March 6 at 7 pm in the SRSS Contact Lois Loewen Epp 204.346.6609 or Theatre. Admission is free. See a collection of short films made lois@eastmanimmigrantservices.com.

by SRSS students. Contact Andrew Unger aunger@hsd.ca.

Southeastern Manitoba Festival – Month long festival starts Simply Cook and Enjoy! – Sponsored by Southern Health RA on Friday, March 7 with string instrumental, Senior piano on on Thursday, March 6 from 7-8 pm at the Superstore Community Monday, March 10 – Thursday March 13, Dance on Saturday, Room (2nd floor). Cooking tips and recipes for the fast-paced March 15 -16 and March 22 – 23, Vocal Monday, March 3 world. Cooking demonstration to get ideas for quick, healthy 6, Musical Theatre Saturday, March 8 – 9, Junior Piano and delicious meals. Register by phone 204- 326-7569, option Monday, March 17 – 20, Speech/Theatre Arts Friday, March 2, ext.

3653 or by email 21, Choral Tuesday March 25 - 26. Cost per Session – morning, cdhmadminsupport@southernhealth.ca. afternoon or evening (all ages) – $2, Awards Night ($12 max/ family) – $4, Dance Highlights Evening – $4, Festival pass Direct Farm Marketing Conference - On Friday, March 7 from (all sessions & Awards Nights/Highlights evenings) – $12, 11:30 am - 2:30 pm at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre. Southeastern Stars Gala Concert – No charge. Official Program Tradeshow and Manitoba agri-tourism operators, market available for $8 starting February 1, from Steinbach Cultural garden owners, fruit growers and farmers’ market vendors in Arts Centre or Outbach Music (behind the Post office).

personal values and well-being, self-respect and respect for others; promote fun, friendship, adventure and challenges through new experiences; develop leadership and decisionmaking skills; give service to the community; value the natural environment.

Book Sale - Bethesda Healthcare Auxiliary – On Tuesdays (gently and not-so gently) used book sale at Clearspring Centre. Book donations accepted year round at Clearspring Centre from 9:30 am – 4 pm.

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 204-346-7021 or just drop in.

Blumenort - EMC Church on Thursday, March 6 at 10 am-12 pm Niverville - Community Fellowship Church on Tuesday, March 11 at 10 am-12 pm Ste. Anne - Dayspring Fellowship Church on Thursday, March 13 at 10 am-12 pm Kleefeld – Mitchell Fellowship Church on Thursday, March 27 at 10 am-12 pm St. Malo – St. Malo School on Wednesday, March 19 at 10 am -12 pm St. Pierre-Jolys - Health Corner on Thursday, March 20 at 10am12pm Ste. Agathe - Community Hall Centre on Tuesday, March 18 at 10 am-12 pm Lorette - Seine River Church on Tuesday, March 25 at 10 am12 pm Mitchell - Fellowship Church on Thursday, March 27 at 10 am -12 pm

Healthy Eating Cooking Classes - Every other week on Thursdays at South East Helping Hands. No Charge, enjoy a meal with other community members and learn how to plan & prepare healthy meals on a budget. Contact and register 204-326-2599 or southeasthelpinghands@gmail.com.

Adult Book Club - Tuesdays from 7 – 9 pm. Bring book suggestions or peruse our book lists. Meet some other book lovers too and bring a friend. At the Jake Epp Library 255 Elmdale St. Contact Tracey Pankratz 204-326-6841 programming@jakeepplibrary.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.

Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the United Church of Steinbach, 541 Main St. Registration for girls 5-17. Develop

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.

The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon at the Pat Porter Centre for active living. Contact Cornie at 3263155.

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

MS Lunch Group- on fourth Thursday of every month, from 12 – 1 pm at the Village Green Restaurant. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Coordinator 204-326-1434 or email nadine.konyk@mssociety.ca.

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

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

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

Steinbach and Area Lions Club meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at the Magnolia Restaurant. Contact 204-326-2313.

Carillon Toastmasters - meetings are open to adults who want to improve their leadership and communication skills. Thursday evenings starting at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street, Contact Doreen 204-326-7525.

Steinbach AA 12 Step Recovery Program - Meetings are held on Wednesdays at 7 pm. Steinbach United Church, 541 Main St. Ring the front door bell.

Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group starts at 4:30 pm at Anna’s House B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact 204-346-0413.

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

General Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- Join us for a great day of fun and friendship. Visit McPhillips Street Station in the morning and Club Regent in the afternoon. Starting at 8:30 am pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village.

Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cash giveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from the casinos for those wishing to play. Contact Marilyn at 204-326-4939 to reserve your seat. The next scheduled trips are on Tuesdays, March 11, April 8 and May 13.

Special Casino-Folklorama Trips – Must be book early, as buses, hotel and Folklorama venues all have to be booked and paid for in advance. From Tuesdays and Wednesdays, August 5 - 6 and August 12-13. Two trips planned, giving you the opportunity to go to Folklorama without the line-ups, no hassle parking and enjoy preferential treatment at the pavilions. You will also get to enjoy both of the Casinos of Winnipeg and stay at the Club Regent Casino Hotel by Canad Inn. Excellent rates. Must be 18. Buses are filling quickly.

Contact Marilyn at 204-326-4939 to book and reserve your seat.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

March 2014

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Where Have All the Monarchs Gone?

By Cathy Shaluk When I was a young girl, seeing monarchs flit around was as common as hearing the songs of the meadowlarks and the chipping of ground squirrels. I was fortunate to grow up on the edge of suburban Winnipeg. A quick pedal on my bike and I was in the ‘wilderness’. At least in my mind it was. But in reality, it was semi-rural market gardens and patchy mixed wetlands and prairie. Apparently, this was the perfect mix of habitat to support the monarchs and hundreds of other native prairie species.

As I grew older and into my teenage years, I noticed even then the changes to my ‘wilderness’ and the diminished occurrences of meadowlark songs and flitting butterflies. My bike ride to serenity was soon taking longer, as new communities popped up in the areas around us. That five-minute bike ride was soon up to 15 then 30 minutes to reach the wilds.

As a young adult with many career paths to choose from I was drawn back to what was important in my youth, being a part of and supporting the natural world.

Twenty-five years later, I am fortunate to work in environmental education and conservation. In particular, I have spent the last 10 years with Canada’s largest land conservation organization, the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC). My focus and drive has always been the advocacy for the conservation of natural lands and prairie species in Manitoba and in particular the monarchs that rely on these lands.

In the last 20 years, NCC’s Manitoba Region has secured and is now managing 23,744 acres (9,609 hectares) of native tall grass prairie in southeast Manitoba. The tall grass prairie supports approximately 1,000 species that require this unique landscape for survival. Many of these prairie species, including the monarchs, are seeing a drastic decline in their populations.

In recent years, scientists across North America have become increasingly concerned about the status of the monarch, which is listed as a species of special concern by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Species in Canada. This winter scientists in Mexico reported that the species is now occupying the smallest area since records began almost a decade ago.

The news is sobering. If these trends continue, the monarch’s historic migration may be no more.

Despite this I take solace in the fact that there are things we can do here in Canada to help this vulnerable species. For the last several years, NCC staff have participated in the Monarch Habitat Restoration Project that restores native prairie habitat to help ensure the monarchs have a safe place to land, feed and breed when they migrate north each summer.

NCC is also part of the international Monarch Teacher Network, which provides hands-on learning opportunities for educators and garden enthusiasts to help the butterfly. NCC’s Manitoba Region will be hosting several one-day workshops in Winnipeg, Sioux Narrows, Ontario and in Saskatchewan this summer.

Heightened public awareness of the issues surrounding the decline of this butterfly has initiated many conservation and education projects in support of this species across North America. I am thrilled to be working for NCC during this time where every action we do on the landscape will benefit this incredible symbol of conservation. I hope

Monarch butterfly perches on Hill’s Thistle

that the many generations to come will also find enjoyment in having the monarchs flit around and solace in hearing the songs of the meadowlarks and the chipping of ground squirrels.

Cathy Shaluk joined the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) almost 11 years ago with a challenge to create the first curriculum-focused program for youth for the organization. Since then the interactive Prairie Studies Education Program has blossomed. Cathy and her education team have inspired more than 57,000 students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 in southern Manitoba through in-class presentations and field trips to the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve.

Cause Still Unknown in Pipeline Explosion TransCanada Pipeline is still investigating the cause of last month’s explosion that blew a natural gas line near Otterburne and turned off the heat for over 4,000 customers.

Davis Sheremata, a spokesperson for TransCanada Pipeline said that a bypass was successfully installed but they are still unsure of the exact cause of the explosion.

“We are still onsite investigating exactly what happened and why it happened in order to ensure that it does not happen again,” stated Sheremata.

“But it could still be some time before we learn the actual cause.”

Sheremata said work crews would be onsite for a while yet.

A natural gas pipeline exploded in southern Manitoba early in the morning of January 25. It sent massive flames into the air and leading to immediate evacuation of five homes.

Within hours TransCanada Pipeline cut natural gas flow in three lines which ultimately turned off the heat in St. Malo, St. Pierre-Jolys, Grunthal, Dufrost, Ste. Agathe, Niverville, New Bothwell, Kleefeld, Otterburne and Marchand for almost four days.

Subsequently, TransCanada set up information centres in Niverville and St. Pierre-Jolys so that affected residents could process expense claims to recover money spent on direct costs due to the impact of being without natural gas. Approximately 400 claims have been received ranging from heating blankets, heaters, insulation, contractor fees, diesel, propane and accommodations. These centres were all closed in the middle of February.

Sheremata said the company is still working with farmers to compensate losses incurred by producers because of the shutdown.

Even though the centres are, closed TransCanada employees are still available to answer questions and process expense claims for residents and businesses affected by the service disruption. Contact Community_Relations@TransCanada.com or call 1-855895-8754 for more information.

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March 2014

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Hog Truck Collides with Tractor

This livestock hauler collided with tractor carrying s bale near Pansy on February 18.

On February 18, St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP responded to an accident near Pansy between a fully loaded tractor-trailer and a tractor on Hwy 403 near Hwy 216.

According to police, the crash occurred after a tractor carrying a hay bale and a semi-truck hauling hogs collided.

The semi was driven by a 40-year-old Lorette man and a 55-yearold man from the RM of Hanover was behind the wheel of the tractor. Both drivers were taken to hospital and treated for non-lifethreatening injuries, according to RCMP. None of the hogs were injured in the incident and they were safely transferred to another truck and taken to their destination, RCMP noted.

St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP continue to investigate the crash.

St. Pierre Grow Project Needs Help The local Canadian Food Grains Bank (CFGB) project H.E.L.P. will be holding an open house on March 30 at 2 pm at the Cabane à Sucre in St. Pierre-Jolys.

According to Gerald Lahaie, with H.E.L.P., the meeting will consist of a question and answer period about the program. A presentation will also be made by Roberta Gramlich, who will explain the partnership works in their Development and Peace program.

“We believe that positive results have been achieved in needy countries as a result of these contributions,” stated Lahaie.

Development and Peace (The Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace is the official international development organization of the Catholic Church. Development and Peace has supported 15,200 local initiatives in fields such as agriculture, education, community

action as well as the consolidation of peace and advocacy for human rights in 70 countries.

In 2011, the local H.E.L.P. designated 50 percent of its profits in the amount of $20,000 to Development and Peace. These funds were matched 4 to 1 by The Canadian International Development Agency for a total of $100,000.

Police Seek La Broquerie Thief

On February 7 at 11 pm, Steinbach RCMP responded to an alarm at the Le Depanneur / Shell gas station in La Broquerie, Manitoba.

On arrival the police confirmed that a break and enter had occurred and an undisclosed amount of cash and cigarettes had been stolen. Review of video surveillance showed a single suspect entering the store wearing a black jacket, brown pants, and a black face covering and carrying a black hockey bag with an NHL logo on the side.

The suspect is approximately 6' 1" and medium build. Police believe the suspect fled in a small dark coloured car.

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

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

Luke Reimer Packs Park Theatre

March 2014

21

St. Labre 200 Organizers Ask Community Groups to Rev Up

By Marianne Curtis

The Park Theatre was a packed house when local country singer Luke Reimer celebrated the release of his debut CD, Miles on this Truck, on February 8.

Steinbach’s Luke Reimer celebrated the release of his debut CD, Miles On This Truck, with a headlining concert on February 8 at the Park Theatre in Winnipeg. Over 200 people attended the 19-year-old’s first major performance where he was the one the crowd came to see.

“I was blown away by the crowd’s size and energy level,” stated Reimer. “People responded to my music and seemed to be having a great time.”

Hosted by Jonathan Best from QX104, the event featured performances by local country artists Bryce Pallister, Rhia Rae and Shannon Patterson.

“It was a complete Manitoban country night,” said Reimer. “I was honoured to see so many outstanding artists rally around me and my new EP.” On January 20 Reimer’s debut CD, Miles on this Truck, broke the top 100 Country albums on the Canadian iTunes Store. At least six radio stations across the province added Reimer’s debut single Smokin’.

“People are taking notice,” Reimer added. “I think this project and concert [was a] show that you don’t necessarily need a large budget or big-name backing for to be successful. It comes down to hard work.”

Now that Reimer has released his debut CD, he plans to hit the local summer festival circuit to boost sales and bring his music to communities throughout the region.

Organizations throughout the southeast looking for extra funding are invited to put in an application to the organizers of the St. Labre 200. While the event does not take place until July, organizations have the entire month of March to apply for a grant, courtesy of the St. Labre 200 ‘Giving Back to the Community’ campaign.

What started out as a friendly competition between brothers has turned into a community event that draws hundreds of spectators to the community each summer. Charles Bourgeois, board member and volunteer coordinator, said the group is looking forward to seeing this year’s grant requests.

“Over the last 5 years we’ve been able to give back to over $30,000 to needy organizations, and we owe it all to the generous crowd and participants,” said Bourgeois. 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.

Over the past five years, the organizers of St. Labre 200 have helped local organizations including last year’s recipients ROC Eastman, Today’s House and LGD of Piney’s Community Resource council. Each group received $3,000. Previous recipients include Treasure Keepers Daycare, Les P’tits Brisous and East Borderland Community Housing. Other organizations that have benefited from the event include Out of the Blue, Seine River Services for Seniors, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Le Chalet expansion project and Ecole Saint Joachim.

In preparation for this year’s event, the committee is currently accepting applications from anyone or any organization looking for funding for miscellaneous reasons.

This year’s St. Labre 200 will take place July 11 to 12. The premier 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 rodeo, bounce castles, R/C race cars, a Rubber Boot Toss and live bands.

Organizations interested can submit an application on the website at stlabre200.ca. The deadline for applications is March 31.

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More Than Just News!

March 2014

4-H Gather in La Broquerie

Zone Communications 2014 Participants.

The Stony Ridge Riders 4-H club hosted the 2014 Central Zone Communications on February 22 at the St. Joachim school in La Broquerie. Approximately 120

people attended the event. Four clubs in our zone participated, The South East Dairy Club, The Home School Club, The Steinbach Sizzlers and The Stony Ridge Riders.

The winners in each category (except Cloverbuds) are encouraged to attend the next level of communications at the Eastman Area Level being held on March 8.

2014 Central Zone Communications Winners Cloverbud Speeches 1st Jennifer Schroeder Stony Ridge Riders Junior Speeches 1st Lydia Andres S E Dairy 2nd Sara Champagne Home Schoolers 3rd Jeffrey Ruus Home Schoolers Intermediate Speeches 1st Dana Andres S E Dairy 2nd Brianna Bloom Stony Ridge Riders 3rd Maxine Chartier S E Dairy Senior Speeches 1st Sydney Shukla-Bergen Stony Ridge Riders 2nd Mikayla Ruus Home Schoolers 3rd Marie Cure S E Dairy

Junior One Person Visuals 1st Abby Friesen Steinbach Sizzlers 2nd Jolene Schroeder Stony Ridge Riders Intermediate One Person Visuals 1st Mackenna Hildebrand Stony Ridge Riders 2nd Stephen Unrau Stony Ridge Riders Junior Two Person Visuals 1st AJ & Jayden Giesbrecht Home Schoolers 2nd Tessa & Fiona van der Meer Home Schoolers Intermediate Two Person Visuals 1st April & Sabrina Burnell Steinbach Sizzlers Senior Two Person Visuals 1st Savannah & Mariah Giesbrecht Home Schoolers

Bethesda Auxiliary to Host Spring Book Sale

By Marianne Curtis The women from the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary are once again looking for the public’s help in making their annual spring book sale another success.

Over the past several weeks, the ladies from the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary have collected thousands of books and other reading materials for resale at the upcoming event scheduled to take place March 26 - 29 at the Clearspring Centre in Steinbach.

The Auxiliary raises approximately $30,000 per year through donations and fundraising, including the book sale. Money raised during the four-day sale is usually earmarked for a special purchase for the Bethesda Regional Hospital in Steinbach.

Verna Thiessen, from the Bethesda Auxiliary, said their most recent fundraising campaign has successfully paid for a new bedpan washer for Bethesda Place.

“We just finished paying off the bed pan washer and we are going to meet in the next few weeks to pick a new project,” stated Thiessen. “At the end of our last fundraiser, we officially raised over $500,000 since 1980.”

When the Auxiliary was founded in 1938, the group consisted of women devoted to supplying the hospital with food for patients, helped with laundry and sewed for patients. Since then their efforts have evolved more towards fundraising.

To ensure the continued success of the sale, donations of used books for the sale will still be accepted up to the week of the sale. Donations of books, records, tapes, magazines, puzzles and games are gratefully accepted. The only reading materials not accepted are old encyclopaedias, weekly magazines, videos, DVDs or Condensed Readers Digests.

Donations of reading material can be brought to the Clearspring Centre on Tuesday’s from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm by Sobey’s.

There are also items for sale at the drop-off zone including a large number of books that have been discounted and homemade items from the Bethesda Hospital Gift shop.

Volunteers are also still required and anyone wishing to help with the book sale is invited to contact Verna Thiessen at 204-326-3028 for more information.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Helmeted Robber Leaves Empty Handed

On February 13 at approximately 7:30 pm, Steinbach RCMP responded to an attempted robbery at the Mitchell Co-op gas station in Mitchell.

Investigation revealed that a male dressed in snowmobile gear, including a helmet entered the gas station and demanded money from the till. The cashier refused to provide any money and the unknown male fled the scene empty handed on a snowmobile heading east towards Steinbach.

The male was wearing black snowmobile pants and a brown jacket as well as reflective rainbow coloured goggles. He was described as approximately 6 feet tall with an average build. No weapons were reported.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP at 326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or at manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Impaired Driver Arrested On February 5 just after 6 pm, St.Pierre-Jolys RCMP responded to a single-vehicle collision on Hwy 59, 3 kms south of Ile des Chênes. An SUV was on its roof in the ditch on the east side of the highway and the local EMS and fire department were attending to the occupant.

A 32-year-old male driver from Stony Mountain was the sole occupant of the vehicle. Although he sustained no injuries in the collision, RCMP officers noticed signs of impaired behaviour from the driver. A breath test was administered resulting in a reading of more than twice the legal limit.

The male was charged with Impaired Driving and Driving Over .08 and was released on a promise to appear in Winnipeg court on April 11.

Auxiliary Gives Up Hospital Gift Shop When the long awaited Bethesda Regional Hospital emergency room expansion is completed, the Bethesda Hospital gift shop is expected to reopen.

However, unlike previous years, the new shop will not be under the care of the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary.

According to Verna Thiessen, VicePresident of the Auxiliary, the organization will not be at the helm of the hospital’s trademark gift shop.

“We decided to give it up when the hospital started renovating,” explained Thiessen. “It will be reopening, but we will not be operating it.”

Thiessen said the decision was difficult because it was getting harder for volunteers.

“We are getting tired,” Thiessen noted.

“It is a lot of work and we have decided to focus on the book sale as our major fundraiser.”

For 11 years, the ladies of the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary operated the little gift shop as a fundraiser for the organization. The gift shop has been closed since December 2011.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Steinbach Hosts Winter Carnival

By Marianne Curtis On February 8, the City of Steinbach celebrated fun in the snow with their 12th annual winter carnival in and around the Centennial arena in Steinbach.

Jason Peters, Recreation Programmer for the City of Steinbach, said that this year the City of Steinbach partnered with Eastman Immigration Services to bring the event to the community.

“The weather was a true Manitoba winter day; a little bit chilly, but sunny,” stated Peters. “There

Steinbach winter carnival 2014.jpg The parents took on the kids during the afternoon winter classic hockey game that took place during the carnival.

were many people out for public skating and the sleigh rides.”

In previous years, the weather has made it challenging to boost attendance. This year, the City held the winter carnival at the Centennial arena instead of various community parks.

The carnival was geared towards families and featured a variety of indoor and outdoor activities included a Novice Winter Classic hockey game on the outdoor rink, snow painting, sleigh rides, cultural music and dance demonstrations in the Centennial Arena lobby.

School Bus Flips into Ditch

There were no children on board when this Red River Valley School Division bus flipped onto its side earlier in February.

On February 7, RCMP responded to a school bus accident west of St. Pierre-Jolys along Hwy 205.

According to St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP, a school bus hit the ditch and flipped onto its side a few kilometres out of St. Pierre-Jolys.

Corporal Paul Manaigre said the 26-year-old female bus driver was taken to De Salaberry Health Centre for observation but was otherwise okay.

There were no children on the bus at the time.

“The bus took out the guard rail on the bridge that crosses the Rat River and made it across the bridge before hitting the ditch,” Manaigre explained.

He added that investigation indicates the accident was caused by driver inattention.

The bus was owned and operated by the Red River Valley School Division.

More Than Just News!

March 2014

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March 2014

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch