Dawson Trail Dispatch January 2011

Future of St. Adolphe Nursing Home on Agenda

Ste. Anne Man Heads to India for MS Treatment

By Marianne Curtis In few days a Ste. Anne man is hoping for a second chance as he travels to India for a controversial treatment.

On January 11, Robert Prior will be getting on a plane and flying to India where he will receive the controversial Liberation Treatment. It is the first ray of hope he’s had since finding out he had multiple sclerosis back in 1978.

Multiple sclerosis patients have benefited from the Liberation Treatment for MS, which is surgery which unblocks veins in the neck. It is a procedure that has raised a lot of recent controversy as MS patients demand access while health authorities demand more testing.

Despite the controversy, Prior is prepared to give the procedure a chance.

“Robert found the info about the liberation treatment and it was making sense,” explained his wife Nicole Bedient. Over the last two years, Prior researched the procedure and all information available and decided that it was worth the risk.

“It wasn’t available in Canada so he started looking for anything else and anywhere else,” Bedient continued.

An article in an American paper drew Prior to Fargo where he was able to be tested to see if he would be a likely candidate for the procedure.

Continued on page 2

The future of the nursing home beds in the St. Adolphe Nursing Home is still in question.

By Marianne Curtis The Board of South Eastman Health has a lot to consider after recently meeting with Niverville Holdings, the current owners of the personal care home in St. Adolphe. The health board met with members of the Niverville Heritage Center Board to discuss the future of the St. Adolphe Nursing Home.

It has been a year since the Niverville Heritage Center Board purchased the aged facility along with the beds.

Gord Daman, spokesperson for the Niverville Heritage Center Board, said that the Heritage Center purchased the 42 beds within the facility.

Continued on page 3

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January 2011

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Former Councillor Under Consideration for CAO Position The RM of La Broquerie has assistant administrator position to Moquin. decided to offer the recently vacated former municipal councillor Claude Until the recent municipal elections, Moquin served one 4-year term as councillor for the RM of La Broquerie. He was unable to retain his seat despite running for reelection.

Based on amendments made to the salary scale at the same meeting, Moquin’s salary could start at $39,130 and go up to $50,050 based on his experience. Previously the salary ranged from $34,500 to Continued from page 1 $41,860.

The RM of La Broquerie began “Robert needed to do the test to confirm the blockages before setting their search for a new assistant out into the wild blue yonder of Neverland,” she added. “We made administrator after the sudden the appointment for a test in Fargo only to realize that this clinic was resignation of Nadine Vielfaure the affiliated with Noble Hospital in Pune, India.” day after the October municipal When the results returned showing that Prior would benefit from elections. the procedure an appointment was made for January. He leaves

MS Treatment continued...

January 11 and will face ten days in Hospital. The procedure will be performed by Dr. Anand Alurkar and Dr. Avneesh.

“We believe that we can get the success rate of the procedure well up from the current 50 percent over one year, compared with every other clinic that does this procedure on an almost outpatient basis,” stated Dr. Unmesh, Manager of Noble Hospital.

Unfortunately, this chance at a new life comes with a hefty price tag for the couple. The trip is costing them $17,000, $15,000 of which goes towards the procedure, hospital stay, flight, and meals. But to Prior’s wife, costs do not matter.

“Robert has been living in limbo for 8 years and so have I. This is a positive thing. We will know and we can move on with life and accept whatever happens,” Bedient noted. “Robert has no life to speak of – it’s expensive, but what is a life really worth? We managed to borrow the money from the bank to do this because he needed to have this opportunity of a better life – it’s just something we had to do no matter what the cost.”

Always an active man, Prior’s diagnosis eventually forced him to shut down his business and it put him in a wheelchair back in 2002.

Steinbach Participates in Employment Study The Steinbach Chamber of Commerce is undertaking a research study on youth participation in the local job market.

The Steinbach Chamber of Commerce will be working with Brandon University for Aboriginal and Rural Education Students to conduct a research study that will identify employment opportunities and barriers for local youth.

Provencher MP Vic Toews

personally made the announcement.

“For many young Canadians making the transition to the job market is a challenge, especially in today’s environment,” stated Toews.

“That’s why our government is ensuring that youth have opportunities to succeed through support for initiatives like the Steinbach Youth Employment Survey.”

Once the study is complete, a report

will be compiled and used to provide recommendations on connecting youth with employers to increase youth employment rates.

The study will be conducted with $30,000 in funding from the federal Skills Link program, which helps youth facing barriers in employment such as single parents, aboriginal youth, youth with disabilities, recent immigrants, youth living in remote or rural areas and youth that have dropped out of high school.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

Growth in Niverville School Presents Challenges The Town of Niverville and the Hanover School Division are working together to come up with a plan to that could see a new school built in the community.

According to Hanover School Division superintendent Ken Klassen, student population growth at the Niverville Elementary School has been constantly increasing.

“In the last two years the school has experienced ten-percent growth,” Klassen stated. He added that the board anticipates that more space will be needed next fall so suitable solutions need to be found soon.

“The short term solution is to add portable classrooms,” he added. “Right now trustees are considering all the options.”

Adding six to ten portables would provide a temporary solution until a new school is built.

The portables could be in place for five years. However, the location of those classrooms is posing a problem.

“The elementary school has a very small school yard and there is not enough room,” Klassen continued. If they are located on the school grounds adjacent to the school, the students would lose their playground area, he added.

The board also is looking at the possibility of moving some of the older grades from the elementary school to the Niverville Collegiate as a solution. “This would create a middle school there.”

The idea was initially brought to the table at a public meeting that took place back in November.

Niverville mayor Greg Fehr said his council is committed to working with the Hanover School Division and the community to ensure that an adequate solution be found until a new school can be built.

“There will be a number of issues to be resolved,” explained Fehr. One issue is finding another playground location if the portables are located on the school grounds. Another is adequate protection for the younger students so issues can be prevented as they mingle with an older student population in the high school.

The Hanover School Division has committed to not making any decisions until another public meeting can be held in the community. A meeting is expected to be called within the next two months.

January 2011

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Female in Serious Condition After Collision On December 6, the Steinbach RCMP Detachment, along with Steinbach RCMP Traffic Services, attended to an accident at the intersection of Hwy 12 and Hwy 303 just south of Steinbach.

While on scene police determined that an eastbound Toyota Corolla on Hwy 303 attempted to cross the Hwy 12 intersection and was struck by a southbound Ford Escape.

The drivers of both vehicles were the only occupants of the involved cars and were transported to the Steinbach Hospital for treatment. The male driver of the Ford Escape has been treated for minor injuries and has been released. The female driver of the Toyota Corolla was transferred to a hospital in Winnipeg and was treated for life threatening injuries.

St. Adolphe Nursing Home continued...

Continued from page 1 Daman explained that his board would like to construct either a 60 or 80 bed personal care home as part of the Heritage Center but they still need to get approval from South Eastman Health. The board has offered to shoulder all the costs associated with the construction and set up of the personal care home as long as Manitoba Health takes over the operating costs.

South Eastman Health Board chairperson Aurele Boisvert said that he is confident in the competence of the Niverville Heritage Center board and he is pleased to see them spearheading this project.

“However, we must first consider the impact that this will have on the region as a whole” said Boisvert. “We cannot ignore the fact that a personal care home in Niverville would benefit Winnipeg RHA.” In addition, Boisvert recognized that at a time that health care costs are rising, this project is a unique way to address the sustainability of the health care system.

The health board promised the group to make a decision after considering all the issues. It was noted that the province will make their decision to allow the beds to be moved based on the recommendation of South Eastman Health.

The St. Adolphe Nursing home has been in operation for over 30 years in the old convent along Main Street in St. Adolphe. There is speculation on what will happen to the old convent once the beds are relocated. There is the possibility of a major renovation project that could turn the facility into a condominium.

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January 2011

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

De Salaberry Wind Farm Co-op Moves Forward

By Marianne Curtis For the past three years, a group of RM of De Salaberry residents have been working on a project designed to capture the wind. A recent grant from a federal program is bringing this project another step forward.

In the middle of December the federal government announced that they would be funnelling $62,000 into two wind energy cooperatives in the province, one of which is in the RM of De Salaberry. The goal of this project is to construct two wind farms in Manitoba for the energy production co-operatives in Saint-Claude (CÉÉ) and De Salaberry (DWC).

Last year a preliminary study on wind quality was conducted. Now the cooperatives must analyze and interpret the gathered data, and adapt it to the management model in order to offer the service to Manitoba Hydro. Inspired by the Val-Éo co-operative in Saint-Bruno, Quebec, the CÉÉ and DWC will adopt the co-operative model in Manitoba to help agricultural producers and their communities control the management of their wind-energy resources.

Robert Roger, a De Salaberry Wind Energy Co-operative director, explained that the project has been in the works for a number of years. Five years ago a group went to all the bilingual municipalities, including Ste. Anne and La Broquerie, and asked them to participate in the project.

“We had a bunch of local producers look at the St. Leon project wind farm and they were envious of the project,” recalled Roger. “We didn’t get anywhere.”

Undaunted, the group pressed forward and soon 46 landowners bought into the project with a $1,000 share. A meteorological tower was installed between St. Malo and St. Pierre and has been collecting data for over a year.

“This gives us a secure land base for the wind farm exclusively with RM of De Salaberry landowners,” explained Roger. “We’ve been collecting data for a year and a half. There are three zones in the municipality that have the potential to be a wind farm.”

The next phase will be closing off the membership for landowners and take on financial investors, he added. Once complete, the co-op is looking at installing 25 wind turbines with an output of 50 megawatts.

“We want to develop a co-op model so that it doesn’t matter who has the tower, everyone will benefit,” Roger continued, “We want to have community ownership for the project so we can recoup some of the returns they are noticing in St. Leon – so that we can prosper as a community.”

The De Salaberry Wind Energy Co-operative is optimistic that when the province issues an open call for wind developers for potential wind farms they will be successful.

“We will be a contender,” stated Roger.

Roger said that he is grateful for the many stakeholders that have backed the project from day one. He is convinced that without the ongoing support of these key people, the project would not be what it is today.

Former Arborgate Principal Nominated for Award

Christmas Songs Christmas has always been a favorite time for me for more than a few reasons. Unfortunately there are a couple of things that make the season a little harder to bear, one of them (in case the title didn’t give it away) are the Christmas songs. Not all songs mind you, just most of them.

For the last few years I’ve done my best to avoid them. If I was listening to the radio and something Christmassy came on I’d immediately change the station. If I was in a mall and they were playing a merry tune over the sound system, well… I wouldn’t leave right away, after all, the shopping still needs to get done, but I wouldn’t be happy about.

This year though something has changed, I’m not sure what or why but it has. I find that I don’t turn my radio away from the Christmas songs, if I hear the music playing in the mall I actually find myself humming along. Not only that, but instead of waiting for my wife to put the Christmas CDs in the stereo, I took the initiative and did it myself. Shocking, but true!

While this may sound like I’m completely converted, there are still some lines that I haven’t crossed.

One of those lines being when a gravely voiced rock-star starts grinding out a terrible version of Silent Night, Holy Night. Now that’s the time to switch the station!

While I do favor the hymns and the classics, there are a few other types that have me entertained. One deals with a little girl wanting a hippopotamus for Christmas (quite a cute song) and another deals with white boomers (kangaroos) as they pull the sleigh across Australia. Not really traditional tunes but enjoyable none the less.

A word of warning to all of you who look forward to the season because of the music; I may be enjoying the Christmas music this year but I could just as easily relapse next year and fall back to my old ways of ducking and dodging the tunes. Also, I’m kind of happy that with Christmas behind us, the music is not being played as much. After all, being a new convert there’s only so much that I can take.

Have a great New Year!

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

The Seine River School Division has nominated the former principal of Arborgate School in La Broquerie for an award.

At a recent meeting, the Seine River School Division board of trustees nominated Elaine Wilson for the 2011 Manitoba School Board Presidents Council Award.

According to assistant superintendent Elaine Lochhead, Wilson was nominated because she pioneered a program that

works with children in the area.

“This award is good recognition for someone that has stepped out of the box over ten years ago,” explained Lochhead.

Wilson, who is now a councillor for the division, began a program a decade ago while she was still the principal at Arborgate School. The program, known as the Little Ones Learning at Arborgate (LOLA), was the first parent/child program in southern Manitoba. The once a week reading program for preschoolers was so successful that it was soon adopted by several schools in the division.

In November, Wilson was recognized with the “Champion of Children” award at the Manitoba Healthy Child Awards banquet.

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Roof Fundraising Begins

Fundraising efforts to restore the heritage church in Richer are now in full swing.

Marcel Gauthier, Secretary of the Enfant-Jésus Heritage Site Corporation says renovations on the community’s heritage church are moving ahead as scheduled.

“The west side repairs are coming along fine and should be completed in January,” stated Gauthier.

“Renovations will go on into phase four which is the east side.”

Costs for the project have been quoted at $41,606.25.

“We are inviting people to make a

January 2011 donation towards the final phase of the roof repairs,” Gauthier added. All the donations will be matched by government grants or foundations.

“Last year, every dollar donated generated two dollars in grants funding obtained,” Gauthier continued.

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Donations of all amounts are welcome, but those contributing $100 or more will have their names placed on a mural inside the church.

For more information, please call Yvonne at 422-9369 or Marcel at 4226880.

RHA Signs Over Land Steinbach 55 Plus 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 call the center 320-4600.

Special events coming up in January 2011 Country Dance Lessons: January 11 through May 17. Instructors are Sandy and Jerry Downcast. $84 members, $96 non member, per couple. Registration dead line is January 4. Beginner and intermediate classes offered.

Old Time Country Dance: Friday, January 28, 8:00 p.m.to12 midnight with live band Buckskin and Satin. Tickets in advance $8 member, $10 non member, $12 at the door for all. Light lunch will be served.

Monthly Programs Single Ladies’ Night Out: The first Friday of the month at 5:00 p.m. Enjoy supper out at a local restaurant. Call the center for place to meet.

Foot Care: The first and third Tuesday of the month from 9:00-3:00 p.m. Run by a professional foot care nurse. Cost: $25.

Bring your own towel. Call center to book an appointment.

Pot Luck Supper: The second Thursday of every month at 6:00 p.m. Main dish and beverages are provided. Cost: $5.00 per person. Bring along a casserole, salad or desert. Call center to reserve your seat.

Birthday Party: The first Wednesday of the month. All members with a birthday are invited for complimentary cake and coffee. Guests are asked to pay $2.00. Entertainment provided.

Perogy Bee: The first Monday of every month.

Beltone Hearing: The third Friday of each month. Call 1-800-661-2653 for appointment.

Brain Injury Support Group: The last Monday of the month. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Weekly Programs Monday

9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Fitness Class 1:00 p.m.

Canasta 1:00 p.m.

H.O. model railway project 7:00 p.m.

Wood Carving 7:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.

Tai Chi Tuesday 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Adult Day Program Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Tai Chi 10:00 a.m.

Choir practice 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Cribbage 1:30 p.m.

Floor curling 7:00 p.m.

Old time country band practice Thursday 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Fitness Class 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Bridge and Whist Friday 8:30 - 3:00 p.m.

Adult Day Program Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $5.50. Call 320-4605 by 9:00 a.m. to reserve your meal for that day. Purchase your meal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menus are available at the office or in the newsletter. Bring a friend.

Billiards – Monday to Friday 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Computer Lab – Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cost $1. There are lessons with Alex Cupples on Mondays from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Call the center for more information.

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

Membership at Steinbach 55 Plus is only $20 per year. Memberships are due in January of each year. Membership is for those 55 years of age and older. Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice in business meetings, voting rights, and eligibility to serve on the board or committees.

For more information on our programs, activities or volunteer opportunities, drop by the Center Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or call 320-4600 or go to www.steinbach55plus.com

The Board of South Eastman Health has signed over a portion of their land to the province as a formality which will see the construction of the East Borderland Community Housing project.

According to the board, Manitoba Housing has signed a letter of intent that they will build a 15-suite seniors housing complex on the site of the East Borderland Primary Health Centre. In response, the RHA transferred the land needed for the construction of the building for the sum of $1.00.

The land transfer was just a technicality on a project on which construction started with a groundbreaking at the end of October.

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January 2011

More Than Just News!

Seven Eastman Bantam Girls Head to ISF Youth Softball World Cup Seven local Bantam age girls are participating with Team Manitoba at the ISF Youth Softball World Cup in Plant City, Florida which runs until January 8. They will gain important international experience playing teams from the USA, Russia, China, South Korea, Philippines, Brazil, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas. All seven girls play regularly in the Winnipeg Fast pitch Super League, 3 with the Eastman Wildcats, 3 with the Smitty’s Terminators and one from the Winnipeg Blue Thunder.

“A” Level softball is the highest level of softball played in Manitoba and Eastman is represented extremely well as all seven are rated at the very top in the province for their respective positions and play. The Eastman Wildcat Organization was created 3 years ago

Dawson Trail Dispatch

after it was apparent that, spread out amongst local clubs, was an incredible softball talent pool. The main purpose of the program is to provide local girls a local high level development program in which to play and to keep the local girls from being farmed out to Winnipeg teams.

This year the Eastman Wildcats will be fielding Midget and Bantam teams and hoping to field a Squirt Level development team, and then in 2012 to also field a Peewee program.

In the programs inaugural season, the Peewee Team surprised everyone, finished second at provincials and won the Silver Medal at the Western Championships after losing a nail-biter to BC in the finals by one run.

If any is interested in becoming part of this organization please feel free to call Giz Bergen at 388-4193.

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

Ste. Anne Ste Anne Winter Carnival 2011 - January 28, 29, 30. The carnival is back! Reserve the date for a fun family time for everyone. The bulk of the activities will be held at the curling rink, arena and seine river banquet hall. Social evening with live band on Saturday night, friendly snow sculpture competition, kids’ zone, rides, face painting, races, games, breakfast on both days, traditional meals and a host of activities are being planned. Contact Nicole at 422-5908; cell: 880-8488 or email: rprior@mymts.net.

Monday Night Bingo in Ste. Anne at the Seine River Banquet Hall. Doors Open at 5:30 pm, Early Birds at 7 pm followed by Regular Bingo This is a weekly event to raise funds for Stacey Pchajek Memorial Foundation Inc. The foundation provides scholarships, bursaries & prizes to students graduating grades 8 & 12. For further info about the foundation please see www.spmf.ca or call Doreen Pchajek at 4225243. Children Under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to be on premises & must play bingo.

Ile Des Chenes Seine river minor ball AGM will be on Wednesday, January 19 in the Ile des Chenes school science lab at 7 pm. There will be a draw for $50 home run gift card and one free registration for all active board members. Come out to support minor ball in your community! Come out and join a great team!

Blumenort Are you looking to get in shape? Are you looking for a place to socialize with fellow community members? Walking is the best and cheapest form of exercise to maintain or reach your physical activity goals. This walking club will help you reach your fitness goals and gives you the opportunity to mingle with your Blumenort neighbours. If you would like more information on the Walking Club, please contact Travis at 346-7132.

Vita The Susydka Ukrainian Dance Club has been in existence for over thirty years! There are over thirty dancers registered in the club. The club dances out of Vita practicing once a week in the Ukrainian National Home of Vita. Our dance season begins in the fall and ends with a Recital in the spring. The dancers love to perform and continue performing through the summer. We are asking you to consider making a donation towards the Rainbow Auction at this year’s Malanka. Proceeds from the event will go to instruction fees, costumes, and rentals. Tickets for the Malanka are available at Smook’s Gas Bar and by contacting Larissa at 425-7912. Ukrainian National Home. 209 Main St. N, Vita. Featuring Kaylna 2011 Beef & Forage Day at Shevchenko Ukrainian Centre, Rosa on a Monday, January 10. Find out the latest news on research, production and marketing for beef and forage management at this one-day seminar. Ben Hamm, BDS-Livestock, MAFRI Vita Go Office 392-9350 benjamin.hamm@gov.mb.ca.

Vita Community Child Care Centre Inc. annual general meeting will take place Thursday, January 20 at the Shevchenko School library. Start time is 7 pm. By-laws will be amended to change year end date and positions up for election are: President and treasurer. Coffee and dainties will be served.

Steinbach Free monthly bus trips to the casinos of Winnipeg. Join us for a fun day at the casinos. Pick up in Steinbach at 8:30 a.m. and at Paradise Village at approximately 9 am. Must be 18 years of age or older to take part. Prizes and cash for everyone. There will be Bingo on the bus. Bus fills quickly so call Marilyn today at 326-4939 for date information and to reserve your seat.

Quitting smoking in the New Year? Most smokers want to quit. Quitting smoking needs a plan. Set yourself up for success in the New Year. Attend this free evening presentation and learn how. Wednesday, January 19, 2011 from 7 pm - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp library in Steinbach (255 elmdale street). Register by calling 346-7001.

General The super start program, a healthy baby program run through south Eastman health/santé Sud-est inc.

This is a program for pregnant women and families with infants up to one year of age. Each session includes a song and rhyme time, discussions, and games on topics related to healthy babies and healthy moms. We offer a door prize and a nutritious snack. Also, we have milk coupons for expectant mothers and mothers who have babies up to six months of age who participate in the program. This month, our session will be held on…

Thursday, Jan 6 from 10 am - 12 pm at the Blumenort EMC Church.

Tuesday, Jan 11 from 10 am - 12 pm at the 4th Ave. Bible Church, Niverville.

Wednesday, Jan 8 from 10 am – 12 pm at the Dayspring Fellowship in Ste. Anne.

Thursday, Jan 13 from 10 am – 12 pm in Village Oaks, Kleefeld.

Tuesday, Jan 18 from 10 am – 12 pm at Mitchell Mennonite Church.

Thursday, Jan 20 from 10 am – 12 pm in the St. Pierre Health Corner, 354 Prefontaine Ave. Tuesday, Jan 25 from 10 am - 12 pm in the Ste. Agathe Community Centre.

Wednesday, Jan 26 from 10 am – 12 pm at the community health office beside the pharmacy in Lorette.

For more information please call terry from super start at 346-7021 or just drop in.

The girls are Sydney Plaisier (Lorette – Wildcats), Victoria Roy (IDC-Wildcats), Mikayla Goertzen (La BroquerieWildcats) , Emma LaFerriere, (Mitchell-Terminators), Sage Patrick (Steinbach- Terminators), Kylee Watt (IDCTerminators) and Cara Pilek (Dufrense– Blue Thunder). Missing from Picture Victoria Roy and Kylee Watt.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

Stuartburn Settles with Franklin The RM of Stuartburn has finally settled an ongoing issue with the RM of Franklin.

At the beginning of December the RM of Stuartburn council resolved to notify their municipal lawyer that they will accept an offer to settle from the RM of Franklin. The exact amount of the settlement was not released.

The lawsuit stems back nearly a decade when the RM of Stuartburn received a $200,000 funding commitment of Canada-Manitoba Infrastructure funds to complete approximately six miles of ditching along the inter-municipal road divided by Hwy 201. This amount accounted for two-thirds of the project, with $100,000 to come from the two municipalities.

However, when the RM of Franklin was requested to cost share the project at $50,000 they returned with a counter offer and a proposal to add another two miles of ditch so that the water could be diverted to the Roseau River.

Stuartburn eventually completed the project but without any financial contribution from Franklin.

The matter ended up in litigation.

Manitoba’s Income Taxes Increase Again!

So the Province of Manitoba has gotten away with it again. You may have a small increase in your income (employment, Pension, CPP, OAS) starting in January 2011, but did you know you will now pay more Provincial income taxes too?

Federal taxes have been staying the same or going down, but not the Provincial taxes. They are actually going up! What? You didn’t see that news release in the paper? They didn’t have to. They are practicing what is known as “Bracket Creep”.

Bracket Creep is when the various brackets governments use to calculate taxes do not change with the rate of inflation. So you pay more tax on your income even if your income only increased a small amount – barely enough to keep up with inflation. When the Province does not increase its brackets it is like a hidden tax; an affect called Bracket Creep.

During the 1990s, the Federal Government (with the provinces tied in) didn’t increase the brackets to keep more tax revenue (they said to fight the deficit but that’s another discussion). But since the year 2000 the Federal Bracket Creep has been almost non existent. The Feds, for the most part, have kept the tax brackets increasing with inflation every year.

The current Government of Manitoba has loved the idea of Bracket Creep: They get more tax revenue without having to make announcements they are doing so! And they have been doing it since the year 2000. They are addicted!

Here’s an illustration. Say you are a senior receiving Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security, maybe a small pension, and some interest income. Your 2009 taxable income was $18,728 for the year (based on an actual tax client I have). You paid no Federal tax but did pay $369.59 in Provincial tax. Already you can see that the Feds have not asked for any taxes, but you have to send more than $300 to the Province’s coffers!

Let’s say your income in 2010 increased by a very modest 1.0 percent. Your taxable income increased to $18,915 – barely enough to keep up with rising expenses right? But your Provincial tax went up to $391 – that’s a 6 percent increase in your taxes.

I know these are small numbers, but you just paid more in Provincial tax even though you didn’t make more money when adjusted for inflation.

Why is this? The Age Amount Credit – everyone over 65 is entitled to this additional credit (does get clawed back with higher incomes) did not change at the Provincial level. It’s still at $3,728. The Federal Credit has increase in the past 10 years to $6,446.

Back in the year 2000, Manitoba along with the other provinces decided to change how they collected taxes. Up until then, the Provincial tax collected was a percentage of the Federal tax. So as the Federal tax brackets and credits changed, so did the provinces’ brackets.

In 2000, the provinces “examined the tax method and determined that it no longer meets their needs”. Translation: it no longer allowed them to collect more tax dollars by not changing brackets.

They were addicted to Bracket Creep that the Federal Government had done in the 1990s.

I think it’s a dishonest method of getting more of your tax dollars without having to announce that they are.

As a comparison, Saskatchewan’s Age Credit is up to $4,366; that’s 17 percent higher than ours.

Every province in the country has a higher Age Credit (and other credits and income tax brackets).

So send a letter to your MLA and tell him or her it’s time to stop Bracket Creep. Regardless of your age and income, they are getting more of your tax dollars even if your income barely increases with inflation!

While you are at it, remind them that the Pension Income Amount has increased to $2000 on the Federal side and yet remains at $1000 at the Provincial level.

Even for those of us who are not seniors, we have been affected too. The Basic Personal amount on the Federal side has increased to $10,382 (increasing to $10,527 in 2011) and only $8134 on the Province of Manitoba side (27 percent difference; will be 29 percent in 2011); the first higher Tax Bracket starts at $40,970 on the Federal side and yet remains at $31,000 on the Manitoba side (a whopping 32 percent difference); the Federal Bracket is increasing to $41,544 in 2011 – a 34 percent difference!

Yes more tax dollars collected by the Province and you didn’t even hear about it; year after year after year.

It makes me roll my eyes when I hear the Province announcing proudly that they are increasing the minimum wage rate to $9.50/hour, putting more money in the pockets of low income earners. Well they just got a bit more tax revenue from those same people. So much for an increase! If they really wanted to help those at or under the poverty line, they should exempt them from income taxes!

Time to keep our taxes fair. The least the Province of Manitoba could do is keep their hands in our pockets in line with inflation. Start your letter writing!

I will have a petition at my office starting now and during tax time to send to the Government demanding that the Tax Brackets get in line with inflation. Drop by if you would like to sign it with me.

Anni Markmann in an independent financial advisor and income tax professional working, living, and volunteering in our community. Contact her at 422-6631 or annimarkmann@mts.net or 107 Central Ave in Ste. Anne.

January 2011

7

Man Stabbed in Richer Altercation with Girlfriend On January 3, 2010 just after 1:00 am, RCMP in Steinbach responded to Richer for a report of a male who had been stabbed. Members attended the residence and determined that a 42 year old male had been stabbed by his 24 year old girlfriend. The victim was transported to the Ste. Anne Hospital where he was treated for his wounds and released.

24 year old Carolyn Marie Sinclair of Winnipeg has been charged with Aggravated Assault and two counts of Breaching a Court. She has been remanded into custody.

Residents Reminded to be Prepared

By Marianne Curtis Winter is here again and with the season comes a number of challenges and potential hazardous situations for which we all need to take extra precautions. Most of us are aware of the more common precautions we should take, such as driving with caution and dressing for the weather, but there are many other safety measures we can exercise.

Steinbach’s Emergency Planning Coordinator, Denis Vassart, is raising awareness on the importance of being prepared.

“It is important to make sure you are prepared for an emergency whether at home or on the road,” said Vassart. “Ensure you have Emergency Preparedness Kits both at home and in all your vehicles.”

At home residents should have an emergency kit that includes a number of items. These should include an extra set of car and house keys, a first aid kit, blankets or sleeping bag, special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members, medications necessary for a period of at least one week, a battery powered radio and extra batteries, a flashlight and extra batteries, bottled water sufficient for at least three days, a three-day supply of non-perishable or canned foods, candles, matches and/or cigarette lighter, and sanitation supplies (soap, paper towels, toilet paper, tissues, pre-moistened towlettes, waste containers, feminine hygiene products, etc.).

Vassart suggests that vehicles should have two kits – one for the trunk and one for the cab.

Items in the trunk kit should include: shovel, sand, salt, tow chain, booster cables, fire extinguisher, warning light or flares, and extra clothing. The kit in the cab of the vehicle should include: a flashlight, blanket, first aid kit, matches, candles (in a deep can to warm hands or heat a drink), and an emergency food pack.

8

January 2011

Safer Neighbourhoods and Faster Access to Health Care The province focused on speedier access to health care, strengthening the justice system, growing the economy and protecting the environment during the fall sitting of the 39th legislature, house leader Jennifer Howard said.

The house will resume sitting in the spring of 2011.

Howard said important anti-crime measures initiated during the fall sitting included: - Legislation passed allowing Winnipeg’s new 30-member police cadet corps to help make neighbourhoods safer, - Legislation passed denying victims’ compensation to convicted criminals, - Legislation passed requiring parents to pay the legal aid bills of their children, - Legislation in effect taking drivers’ licences from drug dealers, - Legislation passed making impaired driving laws tougher, and - Legislation passed holding lawbreakers who don’t pay fines responsible for fine collection costs.

Health-care initiatives launched included: - A commitment to provide access to family doctors for every Manitoban by 2015, - A commitment to establish quick-care clinics staffed by nurse practitioners, - Announcement of a new one-stop location for addictions and mentalhealth services, - Introduction of legislation which would restrict prescription of narcotics and other controlled drugs, - Provision of more addictions beds for women seeking treatment, - Adoption of incentives for doctors who agree to practise in rural and northern parts of the province, - Announcement of a new clinic for northwest Winnipeg, and - Legislation introduced which would extend workers compensation health coverage for firefighters and paramedics.

Economic initiatives launched included: - Elimination of the Small Business Tax on Dec. 1, - Reduction in rates of Workers Compensation Board premiums for businesses and workers, - Passage of legislation allowing unrestricted shopping when Boxing Day falls on Sunday, and - Opening of a one-stop centre for immigrants to help augment the successful Provincial Nominee Program.

Initiatives to help train youth for the jobs of tomorrow included: - Introduction of legislation which would require all Manitobans to pursue their education through the age of 18, - Creation of the Manitoba Youth Corps to connect 2,500 Manitoba youth to mentor and job opportunities and create nearly 350 jobs for at-risk youth, and - adoption of a new policy allowing for penalties for late student assignments and clarifying that schools have the right to fail students for poor performance.

Initiatives to help families and individuals included: - The launch of a website to help Manitobans get information about private pension plans, - Creation of a 24-7 elder abuse hotline, - $10.7 million for construction of new affordable housing for families and people with disabilities, and - Passage of legislation to provide leave from work for immigrants to attend citizenship ceremonies.

Initiatives to benefit the environment included: - Creation of two new provincial parks, - Passage of legislation allowing for creation of the Polar Bear Centre, and - Introduction of legislation which would strengthen rules governing pig barns and other large livestock operations.

Initiatives for rural and northern communities included: - Unveiling of a world-class water bomber for northern firefighting, - Creation of a new, $1-million small communities transit fund, - Announcement of $2.3 million in funding for innovative agriculture research, - Announcement of consultations with municipalities on a new municipal bridges program, - Announcement of a new hospital for Notre Dame du Lourdes, - Introduction of a new grasslands project to keep pollutants out of Lake Winnipeg, - Construction of a new dialysis service for Berens River, - Opening of a new Workers Compensation Board office in Brandon, and - Provision of improved compensation for producers who lose livestock to wildlife As always, I appreciate hearing your comments and thoughts on these and other provincial initiatives. I encourage you to contact me by e-mail (rlemieuxmla@mts.net), by phone (878-4644), or by mail at 101-1309 Dawson Road, Box 517, Lorette, MB R0A 0Y0 and together we can continue to move La Verendrye and Manitoba forward.

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Hope for 2011 As we put to bed another year and thoughts and recollections oscillate between warm fuzzy feelings and/or disappointment on particular past events. Which was it… a banner year or a very forgettable one?

Individual perspective, family unit, neighbors, work and play, all had their influences but the further afield one got from Manitoba the worse the news got. The consensus seems to be that as Manitobans we were at least economically lucky.

The world economy is still in a fragile recovery, such as the USA and Europe whose job numbers, deficits and currencies have been battered all year. Some of our neighboring provinces are experiencing slow growth but at least it is not shrinkage.

Yet there will be changes this year in Manitoba when we go to the polls. Not that the government is bad or that bad, it’s that it has become boring. A Government cannot survive being boring.

There will be changes with a change of government, some more predictable than others. Bipole 111 will not be built in western

ESPN. The battle with terrorism will continue and, I hope we as Canadians, stay vigilant and lucky.

I hope we and our allies can wind down the nightmare called Afghanistan.

I believe the world economy is Manitoba for instance. Hydro will going to improve but many world authoritarian governments will share the east side of the continue with their paranoia and Manitoba province with the start of an all-weather road. We already the flood of refugees to Canada know the rhetoric between the two will continue. In part, of course, just to annoy our Government. ideologies will be dramatic but The Korean peninsula is scary and both parties govern from the China would rather keep it that middle. No yawning now – that way than have the Americans conveys too much indifference.

On the Federal scene more of the closer to their border. The phrase “To hell in a hand basket” keeps same seems in store. The rhetoric will continue from the far right and playing in my mind. Yet... there is hope. governing from the slightly right.

Hope, yes. I think we will see Our “raproachment” with the taxation switched more and more Americans will continue with towards consumption with security and trade being the unassailable necessary twins. Will progress being made on reversing we become more American? I long the increasing gap between the very rich and the working class. for the days when the difference But just in case of disappointment, was obvious and CBC was just what does one take for lunch in a about necessary and gave us a hand basket ride? Is a bottle of red sense of comfort. Now you can Chardonnay too ostentatious? watch an NHL game between the Maybe I should crack it open now.

Thrashers and the Lighting on

Explosive Device Located in Grunthal On December 17 at about 11 pm, arrested and interviewed and more will be appearing in court in St. St. Pierre Jolys RCMP Detachment arrests are expected. A 16-year-old Pierre Jolys in February facing was dispatched to a complaint of a male youth from the Grunthal area criminal code charges. homemade explosive device.

Initial reports indicate local Citizens on Patrol members had come across several youths in the Grunthal Fair Grounds attempting to detonate some type of homemade explosive device.

Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.

When they were observed, the youths fled, leaving behind the The Dawson Trail Dispatch is a monthly newspaper device. RCMP was contacted and distributed free of charge to the scene was contained.

50 Southeastern Manitoba communities.

RCMP Explosive’s Disposal Unit Published by: One One Consultants Inc. attended the location. The device Box 308, Richer, MB R0E 1S0 was described as a homemade Phone: (204) 422-8548 Fax: (204) 422-9768 incendiary type bomb containing a black powdery substance with small containers of starting fluid Dan Guetre, Managing Editor One One Consultants Inc., Publisher and propane cylinders attached to News Writers: Marianne Curtis, and Dan Guetre it. The device was dismantled and Columnists: Lee Guetre, Peter Friesen, Anni Markmann, Peter Martens, detonated at the location as a precautionary measure. There were Production/Design: Dan Guetre, Myriam Dyck, no injuries reported and no Linda Bennett and Wilma Priebe damages to any property.

Advertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre Several suspects have been

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

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

Getting Things Done Hay Harvest For Canadians As another year has drawn to a close, it is often a time for reflection and a time to take stock of our accomplishments.

This past year saw the economy as our Government’s primary focus because you told us it was your number one priority. In early 2010 we entered the second phase of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, which took a measured approach to balancing the budget while still creating jobs and stimulating the economy. The Infrastructure Stimulus Fund was a large part of our Plan and we are eager to see those projects up and running in our communities in 2011.

I was also given a new job this year, as I was appointed Canada’s Minister of Public Safety last January. Over the year I spent a lot of my time focusing on my new role as our Government passed laws aimed at improving the quality of life of citizens by making them safer in their homes and on the streets.

Our Protecting Victims from Sexual Offenders Act means predators and not victims will be forced to pay the price for their actions. It also means police will be able to track them down more easily should they show signs of offending again. Some of them will retire while in jail, but thanks to our Eliminating Entitlements for Prisoners Act they won’t be receiving any old age security payments.

Auto thieves have garnered our attention and will face a strong response from the Tackling Auto Theft and Property Crime Act. This means thieves and those who pay them for stolen autos will both pay a higher price for their crimes.

We have also taken proactive measures to get after those who target you while you use your computer. The Fighting Internet and Wireless Spam Act stops spammers from inundating you and your family with unwanted and sometimes inappropriate communications. Most importantly it targets identity theft, phishing and spyware.

Consumers can rest easy knowing we have been aggressively targeting those who don’t take their health as seriously. The Canadian Consumer Product Safety Act means products entering this country will need to meet higher standards especially those that end up in the hands of children.

Last, but certainly not least, Celebrating Canada’s Seniors Act creates a National Seniors Day to recognize the significant and continuing contributions seniors make to their families, communities, workplaces and society.

In 2011, our government is looking forward to picking up where we left off this year. Our focus will be to move forward on our public safety agenda, and to introduce a new budget.

I would like to wish you all the best in 2011.

Please feel free to contact my office if you have any concerns or issues you would like to discuss. You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-3331933 or at 204-326-9889 or in Lac du Bonnet at 204-345-9762. You may write my office at 8 - 227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, by fax at 204-3469874 or by e-mail at toewsv1@parl.gc.ca.

Seine River Trustees Want Election Changes It has been two months since the recent municipal and trustee elections and the Seine River School Division is already looking towards making some changes for the next one.

Chairperson Wendy Bloomfield said that the board is reacting to a report made by the Senior Elections officer which showed a number of procedural problems with the trustee election on October 27.

“One of our concerns is the confusion at the polls on election day,” stated Bloomfield.

She noted that Seine River School Division is unique because it crosses 13 separate municipalities.

“This means different boundaries, different election lists and it is a tremendous challenge to coordinate everything,” Bloomfield explained.

Polls were set up at the same location as election officials; however they were not clearly marked, nor were there signs directing people where to go.

“A lot of people ended up not voting for a trustee,” Bloomfield added.

The Seine River School Division board of trustees agreed that they need to work more closely with the municipalities when coordinating the next trustee election.

The board decided that this issue will be brought up at the next Manitoba Association of School Trustees (MAST) convention in March. It is hoped that a policy will be developed between MAST and the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) that will develop a better working relationship for all school boards and municipalities for joint elections.

Contract Available

January 2011

9

Bids are being received by the Town of Niverville for right to harvest hay from town reserve lands and public road allowances.

The Town is prepared to enter into a hay harvest contract for a three (3) year term beginning in 2011 and running through 2013. Depending on the year, approximately 31 acres in total harvestable hay may be available.

Each bid must be in a sealed envelope addressed to the Town of Niverville, Box 267, Niverville, MB, R0A 1E0 and must be marked on the outside with the words, “Bid for Niverville Hay Contract January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2013”.

Deadline for receiving of bids is January 28 at 4:00 p.m. at the Niverville Civic Offices, 86 Main Street, Niverville. For more information, or to pick up a Hay Harvest Contract, please contact the Town office at 204-3884600 or at ryan@whereyoubelong.ca.

10

January 2011

More Than Just News!

Fundraiser Launched to Finish Ile Des Chênes Community Centre

Construction of the new energy efficient geothermal community centre in Ile Des Chênes has been progressing smoothly over the past six months.

De Salaberry Wants Safer Intersection The RM of De Salaberry is taking their concerns about a dangerous intersection to the province in hopes of finding a solution that could save lives.

The municipality has made a formal request to Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation to have additional warning devices installed at the intersection of Hwy 200 and Hwy 23. The Hwy 200 which starts between St. Malo and St. Pierre has stop signs at the intersection so that traffic along Hwy 23 has the right of way.

“We feel that this intersection seriously warrants investigation by provincial authorities...”

According to the municipality, the pleas for better safety control at the intersection comes after two fatalities and numerous close calls have been reported.

“We feel that this intersection seriously warrants investigation by provincial authorities in regards to looking at ways at making this a safer crossing,” stated council.

“At first glance this intersection does not appear dangerous,” stated Ron Musiak, RM of De Salaberry reeve. “The problem is that it is so wide open that people don’t pay enough attention to it.”

The municipality suggested that Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation install a red flashing light, highway warning “wake up strips” or any other device in order to better warn of the approaching intersection.

The intersection, which has stop signs installed for west and east bound traffic, has been the scene of two fatalities in the past six months.

On November 9, a 54-year-old woman from Rosenort was killed in an accident that also injured four people.

Two of those injured were from Landmark. On June 16, George Forsyth, a teacher in Dominion City, was killed when the vehicle he was in was struck by a vehicle that did not stop at the sign. Three other occupants, all teachers with Borderland School Division, were injured.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

By Marianne Curtis Over the past six months a new community centre has been going up at the north end of Ile Des Chênes. Now that the structure is clearly visible local fundraising crews are hitting the streets looking for donations that will see the facility complete and fully functional.

The Community Centre is expected to bring much needed services to the community and will also create employment opportunities. The new centre includes a hall and a bilingual public daycare for 94 children. There is also office rental space, with a focus on bringing medical services to the community and surrounding area such as a medical doctor, pharmacy, dentist, and physiotherapist.

Cyrille Durand, on behalf of the fundraising committee, hopes that businesses and local residents will pitch in financially and help furnish the facility. The group is looking to raise $750,000 from the community.

This money will be used for a fully furbished commercial kitchen, acoustic tile ceiling, sound system, tables, chairs and a stage, main entrance canopy, paved handicap parking and a rain water collection system.

“We are targeting the residents in the area that will be using the arena, the daycare, the community centre, the health services, all those people plus we are targeting businesses, employers and larger corporations,” explained Durand. “It’s a huge project.”

Some donations have begun to flow in and the group hopes that the balance will be raised over the next few months. The new community centre is expected to be ready for use in the late spring or early summer.

Durand admits that while there are no firm commitments there is interest from a doctor, pharmacist, physiotherapist and dentist who may set up their practices in the rental office space. The committee has already included any anticipated costs associated with ensuring that a working practice can be established within the fundraising goal.

“We are only coming to the community once for this project,” Durand said.

The $4.7 million community centre was made possible with $2.77 million in federal funding through the Community Adjustment Fund and the Rural Municipality of Ritchot.

The Ile Des Chênes project is unique because it is one of the first energy efficient geothermal community centres in the province. The geothermal system is also connected to the community’s local arena and the RM of Ritchot fire hall bringing the entire costs to $6.5 million.

Journey For Sight Looks for Riders

By Marianne Curtis The Steinbach Lions Club is still looking for a few adventurous people to come out and hit the trails with them during the upcoming Journey for Sight.

Sam Slobodesky, from the Steinbach Lions Club, invites anyone with a snowmobile and in the mood for adventure to come out and join the southeast portion of the ride. The eastern leg of the trip runs from January 20 to 23 and starts at Moose Lake. Riders will travel some of the most beautiful snowmobile trails in the region.

“We are doing the ride again this year and we welcome anyone that wants to participate explained Slobodesky. This year’s Journey for Sight will be his 15th. “We hope to see

more this year.”

Participants and their crew accept cash and cheque gifts along the trail in any amount. Tax receipts will be issued for donations greater than $10.00.

Those wishing to help the organization are invited to meet with the Steinbach Lions Club participants when they gather at the Franz Motor Inn in Steinbach around noon on January 21.

For the past 27 years, the Journey for Sight ride has taken place and more than $1 million has been raised for the Lions Eye Bank.

Anyone wishing to join the ride can call Slobodesky at 3209635 or email slobos31@hotmail.com.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Niverville Eyes Library

More Than Just News!

Residents in the Town of Niverville could have access to a community public library in the future.

By way of bylaw, the Town of Niverville council has established a library reserve fund. This money would become available in the event that council proceeds to establish a community library.

Last year council budgeted $5,000 for library services that was used to payback membership costs to residents that use libraries outside of the community. The balance remaining will go into the reserve fund.

Bothwell Cheese Wins Awards for Fifth Year

The production staff at Bothwell Cheese responsible for making the award winning cheese: Front Row: Reinhold Sawatsky, David Ray, Nathan Dueck, Gil Dueck, Rob Hiebert. Back Row: Eddy Doerksen, Gerard Toews, Gerhard Plett, Levi Falk

For the fifth year in a row Bothwell Cheese has placed first at the prestigious 83rd Annual British Empire Cheese Show.

Bothwell won in the Marble Cheddar class at the international competition, which has been handing out coveted awards since 1927. The British Empire Cheese Show is one of the largest cheese shows in Canada and Bothwell Cheese has been entering the competition for the past six years.

The company has placed first in its respected category five years in a row at the show put on by the Central Ontario Cheese Makers Association.

“It’s a tremendous feat to be recognized by such a prestigious organization, especially considering the high calibre of the competition,” said Ivan Balenovic, Bothwell Cheese president and CEO. “It is a highly respected competition.”

He noted that he doesn’t think that any other company has ever taken the same award home five years in a row.

“We are excited about the win because we recognize that we do things a little different and we put a lot of extra attention into our cheese,” explained Balenovic. “With these awards our cheese makers and staffers are being recognized for what we think we are doing, which is producing the best cheese in Canada – we pride ourselves in that.”

Bothwell Cheese is known for producing cheese made with completely natural ingredients, pure milk, and no modified milk ingredients. They make their marble cheddar a little different than other companies because it is milled.

Bothwell Cheese took home two other awards from the event. They placed second for their medium cheddar and Monterey Jack varieties.

The company produces and distributes more than 20 varieties of cheeses throughout Canada. Bothwell also placed second in the Medium Cheddar and Monterey Jack categories.

Over the past five years Bothwell Cheese, which used to only be available locally, has now expanded and sells in about 1,500 stores across Canada.

January 2011

11

2011 Spring Thaw Preparation in Niverville While it is still snow and ice on the ground some discussion in Niverville has already started on potential concerns for next spring’s thaw.

Throughout the province officials are preparing for potential flooding due to the saturated soil and higher than average snow falls predicted.

Council was informed at a recent meeting that the province has already begun some preparations including the placement of pumps within the community. Council, staff and emergency personnel will be continuing to monitor and plan to ensure that in the event of a flood situation it can be handled as smoothly as possible.

Citizens are encouraged to visit the provincial emergency measures website for more information on forecasts and steps they can take to prepare.

12

More Than Just News!

January 2011

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Call for Entry...

13th Annual Southeast Adult & Juvenile Open Judged Art Exhibit

Start 2011 with a Creative Bang!

You are invited to our Family Pyjama Party! We’re serving Milk and cookies too!

The Paper Bag Princess and More – Saturday, January 22, 2:00 p.m., SRSS Theatre.

Prairie Theatre Exchange brings the charismatic characters of Robert Munsch to life on the stage.

Kids! Enter to win free family tickets by joining this Story writing opportunity – check our website for details.

Upcoming Events & Shows

January 5 ‘Moments’ – oils & acrylics by Bernice Brandt and Cathy Sawatzky January 16 Jorge Miguel Flamenco Ensemble January 22 Family Show – Prairie Theatre Exchange February 21 ‘Wingfield On Ice’ Manitoba Theatre Centre March 3 Vancouver Chamber Choir April 30 The Great Hallelujah! With Danny Plett How to Register? More Info? Tickets?

Call 346-1077 or check out www.steinbachartscouncil.ca

Dance Classes Start January 13

Limited numbers. Learn several styles of dance - Latin Dance: January 13 to April 7, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

- Social Dance: Beginner – January 13 to April 7, 8:30-9:30 p.m.

- Social Dance: Intermediate – January 13 to April 7, 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Free Practice time: 9:30-11 p.m. for all classes

Southeast School of Dance Winter Classes

- Creative Tap: Ages 4-7, January 4 to April 16, 6:00-6:45 p.m. Explore basic tap steps!

- Dress Up Song & Dance: Ages 4-5, January 4 to April 16, 4:45-5:15 p.m. Dancing with a theatrical twist, featuring weekly themes, such as Fairy Tales, Safari, Under The Sea, Rainy Day, My Favorite Animal & more….

- Urban Ballet: Ages 8-10, January 5 to April 16, 6:00-7:00 p.m. Ballet with an urban twist.

Nurture Your Creative Child

Registration in now on. All ages and media are welcome. Pick-up a registration form at the SAC office or check out our website.

Exhibit runs March 3 to April 4. Registration deadline January 14. Deadline for work submission is February 11.

Backyard Theatre Company starts now!

Gain confidence! Ignite Creativity!

Acting Exploration: Ages 9-11, January 13 to April 21, 5:45-6:45 p.m.

Explore character development with emotions, costumes, physicality and vocal.

Extreme Acting: Ages 12 – 14, January 13 to April 21, 6:45-7:45 p.m.

What is IMPROV? Learn more about it and how to do it!

Arts for Tots Preschool Program on Now!

The most creative way to learn early child development through dance, theatre, music and visual arts – for ages 3-5. Instructors: Miss Carol and Miss Pam. Classes from January 3 to June 14, Monday & Wednesday 1:00-3:30 p.m. and Tuesday & Thursday 1:00-3:30 p.m.

NEW Winter 2011 Classes

Cooking: Kids in the Kitchen, Creative Cooks & Multicultural Cooking; Seniors: A Stitch in Time, Granny’s Secret Recipe, Seniors in Motion & Grandma & Grandpa’s Green Thumb; Language: Spanish, French Level 2, High German.

‘Creative Community’ 2010-11 Annual Corporate Campaign

Be ready for our CALL – 2010-11. Goal: $45,000 We will be calling for your support – help sponsor a show, an event or - Play Date With Art: Ages 2-4 (plus parent), February 18 to March 25, 10:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Parent & child will contribute to our programs. You make a donation – SAC will acknowledge enjoy a favorite story while creating a related craft. this as your donor support on our donor wall, signage, in programs and at - Art Adventure: Ages 5-7, February 16 to March 23, 5:45 p.m.-6:45 p.m. Try out different mediums including events. Call 346-1077 for more details. clay, drawing and painting.

- Kids Art X-Travaganza: Ages 8-12, February 15 to April 12, 6:007:00p.m. For children interested in drawing, painting and clay work.

- A Taste of Art for Teens: Ages 13-16, February 17 to April 14, 6:00Interested in having your own exhibit? Please get an application from 7:30 p.m. For youth interested in drawing, painting and sculpting. the Centre. Deadline for entry is March 1. Check website for more details.

Art Classes for ages 2 yrs to 16 yrs

Calling all Artists!

Creative Adult Art Classes 17yrs +

Pottery: Barb Plett, February 16 to April 13, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Acrylics: February 15 to April 12, 7:00-9:00 p.m. Basic Acrylic techniques, theory & color.

Do you want a ‘Better You’ in 2011?

Wellness Classes Pilates: Beginner: January 12 – April 6, 6:15 - 7:15 p.m. Beginner class is intended for those who have never taken Pilates.

Intermediate: January 10 – April 11, 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. Intermediate class is intended for those who those who are comfortable with Pilates.

Zumba: Work out using Latin rhythms and easy moves! Saturdays, January 15 to April 23, 9:00-10:00 a.m.; Mondays, January 10 to April 18, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Yoga: Beginner: January 12 to April 27, 5:30-7:00 p.m. Begin with breath work and end with relaxation and short meditation.

Intermediate: January 12 to April 27, 7:15-8:45 p.m.

Flamenco Show

Jorge Miguel Flamenco Ensemble: Sunday, January 16, 7:30 p.m. at Grace Church.

A world music performance that features music, song and dance. Call 346-1077 for tickets.

Fire Fighters Addressed by Workers Compensation

By Marianne Curtis At the beginning of December, Manitoba made proposed amendments to the workers compensation act that includes four more disease presumptions for firefighters.

Manitoba firefighters have worked with the government to bring together the scientific and medical research showing that firefighters experience higher rates of certain cancers. Back in 2002, Manitoba was the first province to have a firefighter disease presumption based on this information.

New proposed amendments to the act add four new occupational disease presumptions for firefighters. The four new cancers which would be added to the list already covered are multiple myeloma, primary site prostrate, skin and for the first time in Canada, breast cancer.

Steinbach deputy fire Chief Don Smith is pleased with the amendments.

“This is a good move,” Smith said. “Anything that is added to the Act for firefighters is important because of the risks that we face.”

He also added that he is pleased to see that with the growing number of women joining the ranks, breast cancer has been included along with the addition of prostate cancer.

The Steinbach Fire Department currently has one fire fighter that is fighting a form of cancer but Smith could not comment if he is qualified for coverage under the Workers Compensation amendments.

The new presumptions are in addition to the ten cancers that have been added to the original presumption in 2002: brain, bladder, kidney, lung, ureter, colorectal, oesophageal and testicular cancers, non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and leukemia. It is also presumed that any heart injury within twenty-four hours of an emergency response is also work related.

The amendments apply all fire fighters – full time, part-time and volunteer.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

January 2011

13

RHA Reports Deficit

South Eastman Health is halfway through their budget year and Ron Janzen, Chief financial officer for South Eastman Health, says that the health authority is reporting a modest deficit.

Janzen explained that, according to the Statement of Operations, there is a deficit of $250,000 as of September 30.

“This includes allowances for additional volumes in the third and forth quarters of the fiscal year,” Janzen noted. “However, there is still income from Manitoba Health that is still expected and arrives at various times.”

Janzen says that South Eastman Health is currently under budget overall and recommends that the boards’ accumulated surplus of $1.8 million will be available to offset any deficit for the 2011-2012 budget year.

Winter Carnival Returns to Ste. Anne After 5 Year Absence

By Marianne Curtis

Along with the return of the Ste. Anne Winter Carnival comes the return of the annual snow sculpture contest. Those wishing to participate can order a block of snow by contacting the Village of Ste. Anne. Sculptures must be complete by January 24 to qualify for the contest.

Provencher Farmers Get Feed Assistance

It has been a few years since the community of Ste. Anne has hosted a winter carnival and this January the event is returning in full force.

For three days the community of Ste. Anne will play host to the return of the annual Ste. Anne Winter Carnival. The once annual event is taking place on the last weekend of January after a five year hiatus.

Nicole Bedient is helping organize the return of the annual event which kicks off on January 28.

“This year the Ste Anne winter carnival, with the support of the Community Development Corporation, is hoping to make a comeback,” stated Bedient. “The Knights of Columbus had a good thing going, but they had to let it go – there was not enough support.| The Knights of Columbus and the Comite Culturel de Ste. Anne organized the first community winter carnival back in 1999 on the last weekend of January. The weekend event is notorious for being fun filled with music and great food supplied by the Knights of Columbus along with children’s entertainment that celebrated traditional French roots.

“I remember the fun, the laughter and the warmth generated in the big tent back in 2006 – that was the last one that was held,” recalled Bedient. “The problem was the lack of volunteers and the same people doing it all every year to the point of it being too much for the few that were organizing it.”

Bedient said that the committee that has taken on the carnival planning this year is hoping to encourage people to step forward and volunteer their time and participate in the events return.

“Let’s welcome it and become a part of it by asking how we can help, what we can do and who else we can invite,” Bedient said. “Something good is happening in Ste. Anne so why can’t we share it and get involved.”

The Ste. Anne Winter Carnival is making its official return January 28 to 30. The bulk of the activities will be held at the curling rink, arena and Seine River Banquet Hall. A Social evening with Biivvers Rock & Roll dance band (40s to 80s music) on Saturday night, friendly snow sculpture competition, kids’ zone, rides, face painting, races, games, breakfast on both days, traditional meals and a host of activities are being planned for the weekend.

Anyone wishing to volunteer or can help in any way can contact Nicole at 422-5908 or 880-8488 or email: rprior@mts.net for more information.

Vic Toews, MP for Provencher, has announced funding for Manitoba realizes these are exceptional circumstances, and is ready to provide much livestock producers facing feed shortages this winter following an needed assistance to our producers.”

The Canada-Manitoba Feed and Transportation Assistance Program extremely wet 2010 growing season. has two components. The first is transportation assistance of up to $0.22 “This funding will assist with their cash flow per ton per loaded mile for producers who must transport feed to livestock or up to $0.10 per head per loaded mile for producers that need to transport and enable them to purchase additional animals to higher ground. The second offers feed assistance of up to $30 per ton based on an identified forage shortage to help producers who feed for their animals this winter.” could not grow their own forage to purchase feed.

“Manitoba’s livestock producers are the backbone of our economy, and “Our livestock producers faced exceptional weather this year, which this funding will assist with their cash flow and enable them to purchase lead to delayed harvest and feed shortages,” said Toews. “Our Government additional feed for their animals this winter,” concluded Toews.

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More Than Just News!

January 2011

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Lemiuex Announces Paving Project... Again Representatives from the RM of Tache and the Town of Ste. Anne are both pleased that a long awaited paving project will soon be complete after a significant announcement by the province.

In the middle of December, Ron Lemiuex MLA for La Verendrye announced that the province has found money to pave Hwy 210 between Ste. Anne and Landmark.

“Our government is committed to rural economic development and the continued renewal of our roads,” stated Lemieux. “The upgrade to Hwy 210 is a move in that direction, allowing year-round, unrestricted access to the road.”

Work is expected to begin summer of 2011.

This is not the first time that Lemiuex has made this exact same announcement. Eight years ago, prior to the provincial election, he stood at the same corner and promised that the only road that directly connects Ste. Anne and Landmark would be paved.

Town of Ste. Anne Mayor Bernie Vermette, MLA for La Verendrye Ron Lemiuex and RM of Tache Mayor Bill Danychuk were on hand to hear that the road between Landmark and Ste. Anne will soon be paved.

St. Malo Co-Op Gives Back to Community

By Marianne Curtis The St. Malo Co-op has issued a challenge to customers in an effort to raise money for projects within the community. Customers fueling up at the gas bar will be pumping money directly into community projects.

According to Rene Robidoux, St. Malo Co-op Manager, the profits made from fuels sales will be used to develop a community grant fund for St. Malo and surrounding communities.

“The St. Malo Co-op is always looking for avenues to give back to the community,” explained Robidoux.

“We are running this pilot project for one year to see if community members are up to the TEAM St. Malo Challenge.”

He says that the TEAM St. Malo program is one that could build a community grant to benefit to assist many community organizations. These profits will come from the Co-op shares and not affect individual memberships, he says.

“The more gas purchased the larger the community grand fund,” Robidoux added.

There are three projects that will benefit from the challenge. Some of the money will go towards St. Malo Arena renovations, the Garderie des Bambins Co-op Inc expansion project and the St. Malo Church renovations.

Lucie Maynard, President, Garderie des Bambins, is grateful that the Coop is taking a leadership role in the community.

“They are giving us a chance to make a community positive choice every time we fill our cars, trucks and ATV’s,” stated Maynard. “We are very thankful that a new way has been found for our community to rally together to create something that we all be proud to call our own.”

The money will go into the fund based on how many liters of gas is sold.

For example, if 800,000 liters of gas is sold, .04 cent per liter goes into the fund and the grant would about $2,000. If 3,000,000 liters is sold, the donation goes to 1 cent per liter making the donation $30,000.

The St. Malo Co-op Gas Challenge kicked off December 1, 2010 and will run until December 1, 2011.

New Board Represents St. Malo Businesses The St. Malo Chamber of Commerce has a whole new group of faces to lead the community into the next year.

Lorraine Jones-Racine is the new president of the St. Malo and District Chamber of Commerce. She says that the last year has been spent rebuilding the committee after a few directors left several vacant positions.

“I am happy to report that our community has met this challenge,” said Jones-Racine. “Our Chamber now has a wonderful group of directors that bring their ideas, energy and knowledge to tackle the goals we have set.”

The Board of Directors recently met with Lesley Gaudry, RM of DeSalaberry’s economic development officer and Mark Ratzlaff from Triple R for a Strategic Planning Session.

“From this session we have been able to develop a new Mission Statement and prioritize short & long term projects,” Jones-Racine continued. “Some projects are well under way while some are still in the development stages.”

One project that the St. Malo Chamber board is focusing on is assisting Chamber members in the promotion of special events they may be having.

The Chamber rents a portable sign north of St. Malo and in the past few months it has been used to promote the farmers market, St. Malo Summer Festival, Mini-Folklorama and the fall supper. Several projects that the Chamber is continuing is the “Proud to be the home of” sign, volunteer and business recognition, the street beautification project and family hockey tournament.

“Our community is growing and we need to keep growing with it,” JonesRacine concluded. Anyone interested in the St. Malo and District Chamber of Commerce can attend their meetings which take place every third Monday of the month.

The new mission statement reads: The St. Malo and District Chamber strives to promote a sustainable business climate that encourages and nurtures a healthy vibrant community.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

January 2011

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January 2011

More Than Just News!

St. Adolphe Bridge Anticipated to Reopen in Spring the province fast tracked the project financially and construction commenced in the spring. However, high water levels affected the project and the fall opening date was pushed back until spring 2011.

“Due to factors beyond our control important parts of the reconstruction were not able to go ahead as scheduled.”

After weather delayed the fall completion on the reconstruction of the Pierre Delorme Bridge in St. Adolphe the province is anticipating the project to be done by March.

By Marianne Curtis After a number of construction delays, Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation is trying to assure RM of Ritchot residents that they can anticipate that the Pierre Delorme Bridge in St. Adolphe will be reopened in the spring.

In December, RM of Ritchot residents were updated by the province on the status of the reconstruction of the St. Adolphe Bridge. The bridge was originally closed in August 2009 after support piers shifted. In early 2010

Ron Weatherburn, from Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation, assures residents that the project remains a top priority with the province.

“Construction completion was originally scheduled for the end of 2010 but this year’s unusually wet weather resulted in high water levels on the Red River,” Weatherburn said. “Due to factors beyond our control important parts of the reconstruction were not able to go ahead as scheduled.”

In preparation for continued construction, the contract for the last portion of the reconstruction project has been awarded to MD Steel.

RM of Ritchot mayor Bob Stefaniuk said that it was “unfortunate” for residents who are faced with another winter of driving on roads that are considering dangerous in winter.

“Everyone was looking forward to having the bridge open at the end of December after being out of commission for 16 months and now it will be 18 months,” continued the mayor. “It will be another winter with potentially dangerous driving conditions along Hwy 200.”

“As long as the weather cooperates I expect the bridge to be reopened

by March 2011,” continued Weatherburn. Additional roadwork will continue over the summer but residents will be able to use the bridge during that time.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Villa Youville Coming Down Ste. Anne’s Main Street will be looking a little different in the next month as demolition crews descend upon the old sections of the Villa Youville personal care home.

According to Monique Vielfaure Mackenzie, Chief Executive Officer for South Eastman Health, the old personal care home in Ste Anne is coming down.

“It has remained vacant for a few years since the new personal care home was built,” Vielfaure Mackenzie explained.

The new 66-bed Villa Youville Personal Care Home has been open for about five years.

Three years ago the Villa Youville board of directors wanted to see the old personal care home converted into a housing complex geared to serve people that are not ready for a personal care home, yet unable to fully take care of themselves.

However, problems discovered with the condition of the building’s foundation changed the plan.

A decision was then made that the old building be torn down and a new facility be built as a replacement. Once the site is cleaned up, construction of a brand new 25-suite supportive housing complex will begin. Construction is expected to begin in the spring.

Former CEO Part of Review Team The former head of South Eastman Health has been chosen to be part of a review committee that is investigating another regional health authority.

Reg Toews, former chief executive officer for South Eastman Health, has been named as part of a four member review committee that is looking into issues that arose from concerns expressed by residents being serviced by the Nor-Man Regional Health Authority.

Health Minister Theresa Oswald said that Toews was chosen as part of the review committee because of his extensive experience in the medical and administrative aspects of the Manitoba Health system.

Toew joins Donna Forbes, former Deputy Health Minister, Jan Currie, former Chief Nursing Officer from Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and Dr. Brian Postal, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and former CEO for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.

Seine River Services For Seniors A new service is now available at Seine River Services for seniors.

Huguette G. Leonard is now available to perform reflexology in your own home. Reflexology is a natural healing art. There are reflexes in the feet, the hands and the ears which correspond to every gland and organ of the body.

Applying pressure on these reflexes relieves tension, improves circulation and helps promote the natural function of the related areas of the body. If you require this in-home service, prices range from $30 to $35 an hour. All that is required of the client is for him or her to relax and enjoy.

Huguette G. Leonard can be reached at the following telephone number: 4225793.

For more information please contact Juliette Rowan at (204) 424-5575 – Community Resource Coordinator.

Dawson Trail Dispatch

More Than Just News!

January 2011

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Compiled By Marianne Curtis Another year has passed and once again we take a look back at the news that mattered over the past 12 months.

It was a year of many highs and lows that included top stories such as the upcoming municipal elections that brought out scandals and uprisings. The Vancouver Olympics drew local communities together, along with the province’s celebration called Homecoming Manitoba.

Despite a struggling economy, federal and provincial funds flowed into almost every single southeast community and successfully created jobs and encouraged communities to flourish. Big named companies like Loewen Windows, CT Loewen Building Center and Biovail saw changes of ownership.

There is always good news and bad news, but that really depends on the perspective of the reader. Join us now for a summary of the top news stories from each issue of the Dawson Trail Dispatch during 2010.

January 2010 The year kicked off with an exclusive that would dominate the news for ten months. The RM of La Broquerie reeve confirmed that the municipal council was under investigation by the Ombudsman’s office. The investigation was launched after several former staff members stepped forward with a list of allegations against the council.

Alvin Funk, a writer from Ste. Anne, was thrilled that his first n o v e l , Familiar Stranger, was chosen as a possible screenplay by Steve Spielberg ’s c o m p a n y, DreamWorks Studios so that it could be adapted into a movie.

The Seine River School Division unveiled preliminary drawings for a new school in La Broquerie before sending them to the public Schools Finance Board.

Nineteen-year-old St. Malo native Travis Hamonic made the final cut as a member of Team Canada when they competed in the 2010 IIHF World Under-18 Championship in Regina Saskatchewan.

Above: The community’s of Falcon and West Hawk Lakes announced that construction on a new medical clinic for the communities is complete and open for business. On December 16 the doors of the South Whiteshell Medical Center were opened and Dr. Richard Duval welcomed his first patient into the new facility.

Above: At the beginning of December World Junior Formations Champions Quinn Charrière, Brittany Davies, Jennifer Unrau, Kaylee Hildebrand, Chelsea Broesky all from Stoney Brook Dance Company, show off their gold medals after they competed in the World Tap Championship in Reisa, Germany.

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January 2011

February 2010 The Town of Ste. Anne and the province announced that the existing building in Ste. Anne that currently houses the South Eastman Regional Health Authority would be expanded to accommodate a new Bilingual Service Centre as well as offices for the Town of Ste. Anne and other tenants.

Fourteen year old Tasiya Barkman returns safely to her family in Kleefeld after being caught in the devastating Haitian earthquake. She was among four local women that traveled to Haiti to volunteer at an orphanage and five hours after they landed the earthquake hit.

March 2010

Below: The Niverville Arts and Culture Group relaunched their organization by hosting a successful fundraising event which included Over 200 immigrants and a number of displays, exhibits and newcomers alike attended the first performances by local performers and Immigrant and Newcomer artists.

Employment Fair that was hosted by Eastman Immigrant Services, along with the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce. The one day event was designed to connect those seeking employment with perspective employers.

After 105 years of exclusive ownership by the Loewen family, Loewen Windows in Steinbach was sold to Danish company VKR Holdings.

Landmark Collegiate student Sarah Ens was recently named as a recipient of the Loran Award which is a $75,000 scholarship. It includes a tuition waiver at any Canadian University, along with an $8,000 stipend.

Falcon Lake native Megan Imrie finished in 15th place as part of the women’s biathlon 4x6 kilometer relay at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. The 24-year-old Imrie finished her very first Olympic experience on a high note despite not landing on the podium.

A program offered to Grade nine students in the Steinbach area was

recognized for its success at benefitting underprivileged students in the community. The program reaches out to students that

Megan Imrie of Falcon Lake receives her Olympic jacket and is named an official member of Team Canada. She competed in the Vancouver Olympics as a member of the Biathlon Team.

Several bilingual municipalities in the region, including the RM’s of La Broquerie, Ste. Anne, De Salaberry,

Dawson Trail Dispatch Tache and Ritchot, received $1.68 million in federal and provincial funding. The money went towards rural diversification; green projects; youth retention and entrepreneurship; and export development and advisory services to new Canadians.

Above: Olympic fever hit communities throughout the region as the torch made its way to several towns including Falcon Lake, Richer, Ste. Anne and Steinbach.

Above: The Steinbach Lions Club is thrilled that a dozen people joined their cause and helped raise $14,000 for the Lions Eye Bank during this year’s Journey for Sight.

April 2010

The province gave notice to Dawson Trail Opportunities that live in poverty, have anger issues, they will no longer be receiving are foster kids, kids with mental federal and provincial funding after health issues, and often kids who allegations surfaced about alleged verbal and physical abuse, along just need some extra care. with financial irregularities. The facility, located in Ste. Anne, provided programming for 35 mentally challenged adults and oversaw five homes where ten people resided.

On St. Patrick’s Day, Diane and Gerald Hiebert were named as the winners of the 2010 St. Boniface Hospital Foundation’s MegaMillion lottery.

Above: For three days the St. Malo Provincial Park played host to events like glow skating, live music, fireworks, snow racing, vintage snowmobiles, ice fishing, and hockey on the lake.

Below: Volunteer Elise Plessis and Lisa Rogal, Co-Founder and Vice President of the Steinbach Humane Society, manned a booth at the Clearspring Center earlier in March to raise awareness of the organization and fundraise. Adorable adoptables were also available.

The Niverville Foodbank put out a call for donations to ensure that the needs of those less fortunate could continue to be met. The nonprofit organization packs hampers for 20-25 families from Niverville, New Bothwell, Otterburne, St. Adolphe, Ste. Agathe, St. PierreJolys and St. Malo every two weeks.

After ten years the Steinbach RCMP charged two individuals in connection with the fire that destroyed the famous windmill at the Mennonite Heritage Center.

Thirty-year-old Kynan Patram of Mitchell and 30-year-old David Wiebe of Winnipeg were each charged with one count of arson.

Left: This house in the RM of Ste. Anne is the first to be put up for sale under new legislation by the province that allows for the sale of a home that was used as a grow operation. The house was recently purchased after receiving a clean bill of health.

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Dawson Trail Dispatch

May 2010 Mavis and Earl Asmundson, from the RM of Piney were both presented the Lieutenant Governor ’s Make A Difference

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Right: The community of Landmark banded together to raise money for the family of 2year-old Sophia Penner, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, by hosting a fundraiser. 450 people attended the dinner event and over $9,000 was raised to help the struggling family.

complete by fall, but unfortunately weather caused construction delays and the bridge remains closed until March 2011.

More than 200 items ranging from a cabin to golf balls were put up for auction to help raise the last $100,000 needed so that construction could begin on the Chalet de La Broquerie Inc.

Left: After over three decades in politics long time political figure and Steinbach councilor Art Rempel is calling it quits.

June 2010 The public accounts committee (PAC) met recently to discuss a report conducted on the RM of La Broquerie from a few years ago.

Instead of accepting the report, the discussion turned to new information provided prior to the meeting and a decision was made to send the file to the RCMP. In response, the Steinbach RCMP launched a number of investigations into the alleged actions of several members of council.

The Susydka Ukrainian Dancers from Vita celebrated their 30th anniversary with a dance recital and dinner. Over 30 dancers were on hand at the Shevchenko School to perform as the group celebrated this significant milestone.

Don Dulder, a long time coach and athletic instructor from the Niverville Collegiate, was honoured by staff and students when he retired from teaching in the school after thirtyseven years.

Diane Drysdale, a nurse from the St. Adolphe Nursing Home, received a little extra love and support after the community and fellow staff hosted a fundraiser to raise money for a new laptop. The longtime staff member was injured in a head-on collision in May that kept her hospitalized for several months.

Award and the 2010 LieutenantGovernor’s Vice-Regal Volunteer Award by Lieutenant-Governor Philip S. Lee at a special gala event.

The Steinbach RCMP and Ste. Anne Police department celebrated the success of a joint task force. In six weeks time the two departments were able to successfully execute six search warrants on drugs in both communities that saw 11 people charged with varied drug offences.

The province fast tracked $15 million in funding so that the Pierre Delorme Bridge in St. Adolphe could be reconstructed before year end.

The project was expected to be

January 2011

Above: Moni Loewen from Eastman Recreation Opportunities for Children collected forty gently used bikes that were donated to children of low income families throughout the region.

Above: Members of the Mulaire family accepted an award on behalf of Rose and Emery Mulaire from St. Pierre who were honored by CDEM and AMBM for being Pioneers of Francophone Entrepreneurship at a special gala event. The award recognized four generations of entrepreneurs from the family.

Above: Despite attempts by fire crews from the RM of Tache, Ste. Anne and Ritchot this Landmark home was destroyed by fire leaving a family homeless.

Left: The sod was turned to kick off construction of a new $4.27 million community center in Ile Des Chênes. The new center includes a hall with a capacity of 500 people, a daycare center and office rental space.

July 2010 Steinbach based Biovail Corp merged with Valeant in a $3.2 billion deal.

Renamed, Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc, the deal completed a comeback of sorts for Biovail, which was tainted by scandal and saw its sales fall when drugs, including Wellbutrin XL, faced competition from low-cost generics.

As of July 15 anyone caught texting or using hand-held cell phones while driving could face up to $200 in fines under the Highway Traffic Act under a new law passed by the province.

A group of flooded out residents from the St. Genevieve area are angry and disappointed with the RM of Tache council for ignoring their pleas to step in and help residents after many were flooded out by heavy rains.

Construction of a new daycare at Réal Berard School added an additional 59 childcare spaces in St. Pierre bringing the total spaces available at the facility to 89.

After a 45-year career with the Niverville Credit Union, manager George Sawatzky decided to call it quits and announced his retirement.

Right: The grounds and ball diamonds at Friedensfeld Hall, south of Steinbach, were nearly destroyed by strong winds on June 26.

Below: A children’s choir, including music students from the southeast, took to the field and performed both national anthems at a Goldeyes’ home game earlier in June.

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January 2011

August 2010 Manitoba Hydro announced that they have chosen a route to construct the controversial Bipole III transmission line. The plan proposes to consume acres of land across the municipalities of Ritchot, Hanover, Tache and Ste. Anne despite strong opposition.

The ribbon was cut to officially open the Eastman Immigrant Services and the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce by Minister of Labor and Immigration Jennifer Howard, Premier Greg Selinger, President of the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce Keith Unger and

Dawson Trail Dispatch

Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen.

The community of Lorette received the news that the province is kicking in one-third of the $350,000 needed to construct a splash park in the community. Construction is expected to be completed in 2011.

A motorcycle and vehicle collision near Ile Des Chenes claimed the lives a 56-year-old Dugald man and his 52-year-old wife. The accident took place at the corner of Hwy 405 and Poirier Road when a vehicle failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with the couple’s motorcycle.

Right: On Day Two of the St. Labre 200, gocart racers took their newly created contraptions to the track for 200 laps as they rallied for the coveted St. Labre 200 Cup.

September 2010

Above: Premier Greg Selinger was on hand to personally cut the ribbon to the newly expanded Growing Minds Daycare Center in Niverville. Located within the Niverville Heritage Center, the daycare center is in the process of an expansion that will see the facility able to accommodate 105 children.

October 2010 Things started to heat up with municipal elections around the corner and candidates began vying for votes. Several mayors and reeves were acclaimed including Chris Goertzen (City of Steinbach), Greg Fehr (Town of Niverville) and Bob Stefaniuk (Ritchot) along with Stan Toews (RM of Hanover).

The entire councils of St. Pierre, including Mayor Denis Fillion, and Ste. Anne with Bernie Vermette as mayor, were also acclaimed. The RM of Piney’s only female candidate, Sian Barrow, was acclaimed while the remaining council saw upsets across the board.

Eighty-six year old Joseph Kuz from Hadashville is found alive by seachers in a heavily wooded swamp near the community after being lost for four days while hiking in the area.

Residents in St. Adolphe were disappointed to find out that the long awaited re-opening of the Pierre Delorane Bridge in St. Adolphe will not be completed on schedule, so the bridge will remain closed until spring despite promises by the province to have it completed in the fall.

Le comité des amies de la prière from Richer are looking for help from the community to help support and preserve a historical cemetery located in the community. The cemetery dates back to 1904 and contains over 900 graves.

Below: Provencher MP Vic Toews, RM of De Salaberry Reeve Ron Musick and La Verendrye MLA Ron Lemieux cut the ribbon on the newly completed water treatment plant in St. Malo.

The family of Henry Peters Dyck claims he died two years ago from a morphine overdose and launched a lawsuit against his doctor, nurse, hospital and South Eastman Health. An autopsy was conducted and according the court documents, the cause of death was confirmed.

A sod-turning ceremony took place to mark the start of construction of a new $3.5 million landfill project in Steinbach.

The new Solid Waste Disposal Ground Development project is being built on the same lot as the current facility.

About 100 people attended a special volunteer appreciation evening that was hosted by the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary. The honored guests at the event consisted of volunteers from the Bethesda Gift Shoppe, the Book Fair, knitters and sewers for the gift shop and the board members.

Recently nearly 400 people from both sides of the border made the trip to the annual Gardenton Demolition Derby and Quad Mud Bog which took place at the back of the museum grounds.

Representatives from the RM of Hanover and various government departments kicked off construction of the $1.2 million expansion of the New Bothwell Lagoon with an official sodturning.

Above: This junior bull rider had a tough time hanging out for eight seconds during the 65th Annual Hanover Ag Fair that took place in Grunthal.

Left: Longtime ballplayer and volunteer Richard Cayer was recognized by his community for a lifetime of dedication to community baseball by renaming Vassar’s only park Richard Cayer Park.

Left: Vita resident and businessman Dennis Smook (right) gets a photo op with Manitoba PC leader Hugh McFayden. Smook became the first Tory candidate for the newly redesigned constituency of La Verendrye. He beat out four other contenders during a series of nomination meetings the previous month. As of yet, neither the provincial NDP or Liberals have announced their candidates.

More Than Just News!

Dawson Trail Dispatch

November 2010 On October 27 voters went to the polls to elect new municipal representatives and school board trustees for the upcoming four years.

Some municipalities saw little change while others experienced stunning upsets in areas where ratepayers demanded the biggest changes.

The tiny hamlet of Stuartburn is rocked by the sudden death of a four-year-old girl. Her mother, 32-year-old Mary Joana Belanger, was charged with second degree murder and failing to provide the necessities of life.

Niverville lost one of its community

leaders when 77-year-old Jake Redekop died after he was pinned in the cab of his tractor after it broke an axle, throwing him into the steering wheel.

A Ste. Genevieve woman was fired from her job because she was doing what she thought was the right thing. Vi Hancock was fired from her job after she was accused of stealing hundred of loaves of bread from the business. She insists the bread was outdated and destined for the garbage. She was donating the rescued bread to a breakfast program at a school.

Provencher MP Vic Toews was presented with an honorary Doctorate of Law from the University

January 2011

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of Winnipeg despite strong objections from some students.

The Steinbach RCMP arrested and charged two Richer residents after comments on Facebook led the RCMP to their door. Thirty-seven year old Paul Fiola and 62-year-old Gertrude Fiola were both arrested and charged with numerous firearm and drug charges.

The Ste. Anne police and the Winnipeg City Police arrested several suspects in connection to a shooting incident that took place in Winnipeg the night before at a residence along Central Ave. in Ste. Anne.

Right: Seventeen women, including Karen Toews, Bev Dueck, Sherril Reimer and Angela Dyck joined the Chrysalis Fund, a giving circle created so that women can become involved with philanthropy in their community.

December 2010

Below: Over 120 people came out to celebrate as the ground was broken and construction commenced on the East Borderland Community Housing in Sprague. The entire project is composed of 12 personal care beds, 8 supportive units and 15 elderly person’s housing units.

Above: A La Broquerie family is trying to put together the pieces of their broken lives after 36year-old Jakob Merkel died as a result of injuries sustained while trying to rescue his son from a house fire that destroyed their RM of La Broquerie home.

After over 100 years of exclusive ownership by the Loewen family, CT Loewen Building Center in Steinbach was sold to Dauphin based McMunn and Yates Building Supplies.

While the rest of the community was trick or treating, the graduating class of the École-College Regional Gabrielle-Roy in Ile des Chênes spent the night sleeping outside in -3 degree weather. Through this event the school collected 1,010 pounds of food for Winnipeg Harvest and three vehicles full of used clothing for Saloam Mission.

The RM of Tache and community of Lorette celebrated the opening of the new Pubic Water System and Treatment Plant. The $5.3 million state of the art project has eliminated the boil water advisory placed on the community back in July 2005.

In East Braintree the Shoal Lake 40 First Nation celebrated the milestone opening of Freedom road, a new resource access road that marked the end of the community’s days as a “man-made island.”

South Eastman Health received the last installment of $250,000 towards the completed Cancer Care Center in Steinbach. The cheque was final payment of the $1.5 million commitment that was pledged by the Bethesda Foundation.

After a century of isolation, Shoal Lake 40 First Nation celebrated the opening of “Freedom Road”. In 1916, 3,000 acres of Reserve land was expropriated by the federal government to service the City of Winnipeg Aqueduct and since then Right: Jody Reimer of Steinbach will be studying for three years at Oxford University in England after recently winning a Rhodes Scholarship.

the community has been isolated from development due to the water quality concerns of the City of Winnipeg. Freedom Road is a new access road that marks the beginning of the end of the community’s days as a “man-made island.”

Chrysler Canada announced that Steinbach Dodge Chrysler has been selected as one of its 58

dealers to initially represent the Fiat brand in Canada.

The Bethesda Foundation made good on its word when the last installment of $250,000 out of the $1.5 million commitment that was pledged for the Cancer Care Centre in Steinbach was turned over to South Eastman Health.

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January 2011

We Can Choose the Colors 2 Corinthians 1:5-9, “5) For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6) If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer, 7) And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.” (NIV) Time and again I question why parents sometimes feel the pain and hurt of their children even before the children tell them of pain that they experience. Another thought that comes to mind is whether there is anybody today that does not know what it is like to suffer? Some people actually believe that as Christians we should not have to or will not suffer if our faith is strong enough. But for me, I have found that life is not that simple. We soon learn that suffering is really part of being human.

I will admit that sometimes I have a tough time with the thought that God actually allows us Christians to experience suffering. However, when we look at our Scripture text today we find that the Apostle Paul was not immune or exempt when it came to suffering. Check me if I am wrong. There are times when you and I feel a burden, a heaviness in our heart, for our children or for people we know. It is like a mystery, it is beyond our understanding, but we feel it, we sense it, and we cannot explain it away.

When we accepted Christ as our Savior we, perhaps without knowing, chose a lifestyle that will cause us to face testing. There are those who might experience hostility from family members and former friends. The Holy Spirit remains a comfort in these times while also reminding us that God has called us to be in Christ, just as we share Christ’s suffering in the world. Christ faced a hostile group of people, and since we are to walk with Christ we cannot expect to escape hardships and/or suffering in some form or another. We soon realize that there is a price to pay for being a Christian. True Christianity is not without its cross.

Can it be that our suffering actually teaches us that if we will endure the testing, we will become spiritually stronger? In other words, what do we do when we face trials? Do we just say that this is my lot in life, or do we accept our suffering and triumph over it through prayer? It has been said that trouble colors life, messes things up. But hey! We can choose the color! I have found, and I think you would agree too, that when we have been tried and tested, gone through the fire so to speak, we realize that our spiritual muscles have become stronger because of the testing and discipline which has helped us to be victorious.

There is another benefit when we have come through the fires of testing. We have gained the power to comfort others who are going through difficult times. The apostle Paul said that is how it worked for him. 2 Corinthians 1:4, “who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” (NIV) That means when others in our circle of friends, families and church are in trouble and they need our sympathy and encouragement, we are able to pass on to them the same type of help that we ourselves have received from God. Scripture teaches that when we suffer it is really for our good. Kind of hard to believe and harder still to accept at times, but it is true. When we share in Christ’s suffering, the more He showers us with His mercy, His love and kindness. When we are comforted by God, that also helps us so that we can show from our experience how Christ tenderly comforted and delivered us from our troubles.

To God be the glory great things He has done.

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

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

Ritchot Wants More Say The RM of Ritchot has developed a new policy that will require that service providers to work more closely with the municipality.

Council recently approved a policy that authorizes members of their Transportation committee to review and comment on any plans submitted by Manitoba Hydro, MTS Allstream, Shaw Cable and other providers.

“The Transportation and Water/Wastewater Superintendents review the plans and provide their comments on the drawing plans,” noted council. The policy states that council can approve the plans or request amendments.

“The service provider is to review and conform to any comments indicated by the municipality,” states the policy. “Any damages to municipal infrastructure must be repaired by the service provider.”

The municipality drew up the policy in response to the many times that municipal infrastructure is damaged as a result of an installation for hydro, natural gas or communication services.

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Calling All Eastman Artists Eastman Judged Art Exhibition Heading for Niverville After a one-year hiatus, the Eastman Judged Art Exhibition will be held in June 2011 in Niverville. An organizing committee has been formed as an adjunct to the Niverville Arts and Culture Group and is well into the preliminary planning for this exciting event.

The venue will be fabulous, as the exhibition will take over the Niverville Heritage Centre, an exquisite host location that is highly sought after for group events such as weddings.

The art exhibition will be held in conjunction with the Niverville Fair (June 10 and 11), which will provide an extra spectator draw for fair weekend as well as increased exposure for the artists displaying their work.

All facets of original art will be accepted for the exhibition and entries will be judged by artists selected through the Manitoba Arts Council.

The Eastman region encompasses eastern Manitoba, bounded by the U.S. border on the south, and highway 75, the East Perimeter and Lake Winnipeg on the west.

To receive detailed information about the exhibition, please call 1-800-665-6107, visit www.nivervillestyle.ca or email eastmanjudgedartexhibition@gmail.com.

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January 2011

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Artists Need Apply The 13th Annual Southeast Open Judged Adult & Juvenile Art Exhibit is gearing up for another season.

It is open to all mediums & skill levels: oils, acrylics, watercolors, charcoal, ink, pastels, photography, mixed media, pottery, etc. Registration deadline is Friday, January 14. Cost of registration is $10 for adults and no charge for juvenile entries. The artwork submission deadline is Friday, Febrary 11.

The exhibits will run from March 3 to April 4.

Entry forms are available at Steinbach Cultural Arts Center, 304 Second Street in Steinbach, or call 3461077, or visit their website at www.steinbachartscouncil.ca.

Teaching in Local Hospitals Going Well South Eastman Health is pleased with a program that is currently underway at two of the region’s four medical facilities.

At a recent health board meeting the board of directors received a report on the Family Medicine Enhanced Distributed Education Center. Through the program, both the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach and the Ste. Anne Hospital are taking on the role of teaching medical residents. A medical resident is a doctor that has received their medical degree but must still practice under the supervision of another doctor.

Dr. Karen Toews is the site lead for Steinbach. She said that the program is working well and has been recognized as a viable recruitment and retention tool for the region.

She noted that things are going so well that there is a general lack of awareness that Bethesda Hospital is a “teaching hospital”. To ensure that the public is informed an information pamphlet is now being given to patients to introduce them to the concept of the teaching hospital.

She added the Ste. Anne Hospital is also seeing the same success because they offer a bilingual program.

Seine River Loses Former Trustee The Seine River School Division recently acknowledged a great loss when former school board trustee Sharon Marshall passed away on November 10. Marshall served on the board of trustees for the Seine River School Division from 2006 to 2010.

In a tribute the board recognized Sharon’s positive spirit and commitment to making the communities better places for children inspired everyone who worked with her.

“She worked tirelessly behind the scenes to help others, always asking if all of the children’s needs were being met,” said the board. “She was highly practical and never lost sight of the bigger picture and was always willing to unselfishly give of herself to help others.”

Marshall earned the respect of her peers, divisional employees, the community and the children in our schools, they added.

As a legacy, her family has established the Sharon Marshall Memorial Award, which will provide two scholarships to students attending Ste. Anne Collegiate on an annual basis. Anyone interested in supporting this scholarship can send donations to the Sharon Marshall Memorial Award at any Steinbach Credit Union Branch.

Armed Robbers Nabbed On December 29 at approximately 9:40 pm Steinbach RCMP responded to a report of an armed robbery at

the Express Foods in Mitchell.

RCMP attended and learned that a male had entered the store with his face covered by a bandana. The male advised that he had a gun and demanded cigarettes and cash. The female clerk turned over several packages of cigarettes and a quantity of cash. No gun was shown or seen during the incident. The male then left the store and met up with a second male that had been seen in the store a few minutes earlier.

Police searched the area but were not able to locate the suspects upon arrival.

Later that night, acting on a tip, RCMP attended to a residence and arrested a 13year-old male youth for armed robbery. The youth is facing charges of Armed Robbery, Wearing a Disguise during the Commission of an Offence and Breach of a Probation Order.

On December 31, RCMP arrested a second male involved in the Armed Robbery.

Eighteen year old Michael Jordan Briem of Steinbach was remanded into custody on charges of Armed Robbery, Wearing a Disguise during the Commission of an Offence and Breach of Probation.

While the investigation is still continuing, Steinbach RCMP do not believe that anyone else was involved.

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January 2011

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