Vita Dancers Conclude Another Season By Marianne Curtis On May 22, the Susydka Ukrainian Dancers from Vita celebrated the conclusion of their 31st season with a dance recital and dinner. Over thirty dancers were on hand to perform as the group celebrated another successful year of dance in the community. Club President Larissa Bodz says that the recital was a huge success. “The event was awesome,” stated Bodz. “The dancers worked extremely hard and it showed in their performance.” Now the club is off to Teulon to partake in the Veselka Dance Competition with over a thousand other dancers and has been invited to perform at Folklorama. “Our dancers are ranked highly and represent our community with pose and grace,” added Bodz. The Club continues On May 22, the Susydka Ukrainian Dancers from Vita took to the stage for their 31st annual spring recital.
Mayors and Reeves Say Census Counts
to dance out of Vita with practices once a week at the Ukrainian National Home of Vita. “We promote the Ukrainian Culture, physical wellness, participation, team spirit, a love of performance, and with belonging to a dance club, all are included - no one sits on the bench,” stated Bodz. “Our dance season begins in the fall and ends with a recital in the spring but the dancers love to perform and continue performing throughout the summer.” The 2011/12 dance season will start in September and the club is already planning their annual fundraising events” Halloween Dance – October 29, 2011 and Malanka Ukrainian New Years Supper and Dance – January 14, 2012 featuring “Kalyna”.
Left to right: Mayor Chris Goertzen, Reeve Claude Lussier, Reeve Art Bergman, Reeve Stan Toews encourage residents to fill out their census forms.
By Marianne Curtis Those that have yet to fill out their census forms will have an still have an opportunity to participate when enumerators start knocking on doors in June to collect the information. During May, Canadians were encouraged to fill out the 2011 census forms either on paper or online. Those that did not respond will still have a chance in June and local officials are encouraging everyone to be counted. The City of Steinbach and the municipalities of La Broquerie, Ste. Anne and Hanover strongly encourage all households that have
yet to participate in this year’s census to do so because it determines the amount of provincial and federal funding that communities will receive. “With everyone’s participation we will maximize our federal and provincial support and ensure the creation and continuance of firstrate programs and projects in our communities,” stated Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen. The census includes every person living in Canada as well as Canadians who are abroad. When completing a questionnaire, respondents provide important information that is used to make
decisions for neighborhoods, communities, provinces and the country. Hanover reeve Stan Toews echoed Goertzen. “The 2011 Census is important to our communities in order to identify the future needs of residents,” said Toews. “It is a source of revenue other than property taxes and everyone should participate.” La Broquerie reeve Claude Lussier noted that in areas like ours the census is very important because our area has seen significant growth over the past few years.
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More Than Just News!
June 2011
Dawson Trail Dispatch
New Sign Recognizes Local Athletes By Marianne Curtis The community of St. Malo is showing pride in of four locally born and raised athletes that call the community “home”. On May 12, the St. Malo Chamber of Commerce unveiled their new “Proud to be the home of…” sign which is located along Highway 59 as visitors enter the community from the north. The sign acknowledges that hockey greats Travis Harmonic, Richmond Gosselin and Daniel Lambert, along with musher David Hochman, who were all born and raised in St. Malo. According to Lorraine JonesRacine, president of the St. Malo & District Chamber of Commerce, the project was initiated to show the community’s pride at being the hometown of all four athletes. “This project took more than a year to design, finance and finally construct,” explained JonesRacine. “The chamber thanks the many people that contributed to this project – we couldn’t have completed it without their help.” St. Malo’s claim to fame started
Visitors driving through St. Malo will notice the huge sign that proudly acknowledges four professional athletes that call the community home.
when Richmond Gosselin was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in 1976. He would later play for the Winnipeg Jets during the 1978-79 season. Daniel Lambert was the next
hometown hero when he was selected by the Quebec Nordiques and turned pro in 1990. He started his career by splitting his time playing professional hockey for the Fort Wayne Komets and the
American League Halifax Citadels. He was eventually traded to the Winnipeg Jets but was never given a chance in the NHL. Instead, he decided to play internationally and went on to play successfully for international teams, including the Hannover Scorpions in Germany until 2009. Travis Harmonic is the next generation of hockey star to come from the community. He was a member of the gold medal winning Canada Under-18 team in Kazan, Russia. In 2008, the New York Islanders drafted him. Currently Hamonic is a key contributor on the WHL’s Moose Jaw Warriors. In a sport completely different from hockey, David Hochman is one of the top 10 mushers in the world. It started as a means to make delivering newspapers easier during the winter. Hochman has competed many times, including in the famous 10-day 1,000 kilometer Iditarod Sled Race in Alaska. In Manitoba, he has been named Manitoba champion three times, but his favorite memory was when he finally won the Festival du Voyageur, after nineteen attempts.
New Date for Frog Follies Historically, St. Pierre’s annual Frog Follies takes place on August long weekend. This year, however, the event has been moved forward by a couple of weeks. This year the community will celebrate tradition, family and community with the 42nd Frog Follies & Agricultural Fair on a new date, July 14-17. The non-profit event brings together people from all over for a fun-filled, action packed weekend. In celebration of the new date, the committee is offering free gate admission. The committee is also hosting a “name the mascot” contest to name the event’s two mascots. Three lucky finalists will be chosen on July 1 and the winner will be announced during the Frog Follies. Some of the featured activities include one of Manitoba’s premier agricultural exhibition displays and fair, numerous children’s activities, a slo-pitch tournament, a parade, fireworks, Sunday night DJ social, and the Canadian National Frog Jumping Championship. Volunteers are still needed for various duties over the weekend and to organize some of the events. Those interested can contact Sebastien at 433-2888.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Census continued... Continued from page 1 “Our communities have welcomed hundreds of new residents over the past ten years from within the province and from outside Canada,” added Lussier. “Information obtained through the census will guide us in the development of policies and services that can accurately reflect the needs and aspirations of our people.” Ste. Anne reeve Art Bergman added that unreturned census information will affect how much provincial money is returned to communities for services. For example, a family of five that is not counted in the census is a loss of funding equaling about $550 each year. Since the census is taken every five years, this can amount to a loss of $2,750 in funding. Communities depend on census information when planning for new schools, roads, waterworks, public transit, and police and fire services. Town planners use census information on households and families to plan current and future housing needs, health care, and day-care centres. Residents that have not filled out their forms yet will still have an opportunity to do so. Starting the beginning of June enumerators will visit homes to personally obtain the questionnaire. According to the Statistics Act, all residents of Canada are legally required to complete the census questionnaire.
More Than Just News!
June 2011
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Community Cleanup Yields 8.59 Tonnes of Garbage By Marianne Curtis The volunteer numbers were down in this year’s “Pick up and Walk” community clean up event this past Saturday in Steinbach, but far more garbage was collected, 8.59 tonnes to be exact, which is up by three tonnes from last year. Just under 600 volunteers showed up at the TG Smith Arena on May 7 to pick up routes, maps, gloves and bright yellow t-shirts before heading to the streets to clean up the town. The event was previously scheduled for April 30 but that date was rained out for the first time since the event began in 2006. Eldon Wallman, the City of Steinbach Solid Waste Dept Head, is thankful for the support from residents, volunteers and local businesses who participated in the 5th annual community cleanup event. “It was a great day for city of Steinbach residents,” stated Wallman. “They really came through with two annual events held that day, our Pick up and Walk as well as our Hazardous Waste collection day.” Regardless of the fact that volunteer numbers were slightly lower because it was a rain date, the group managed to collect a record amount of garbage. “In just 3 hours, over 8.5 tonnes of trash was cleaned up within the City boundaries,” Wallman added. On the same day, the 6th annual Household Hazardous Waste Day also took place. “Four hundred vehicles came through our collection point and a full semi load of hazardous material was removed from the residences of Steinbach,” continued Wallman. Organizers are already looking toward next year and have scheduled the next Pick up and Walk 2012 for Saturday, April 28, 2012.
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June 2011
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Shared Investigation Leads to 29 Arrests – 3 Locally By Marianne Curtis As part of a long-term investigation that dates back to last year, RCMP officers from the East District in Selkirk have arrested 29 people – including three from the area – in connection with drug trafficking. Police officers made the arrests on May 6 in the communities of Selkirk, Stonewall, Beausejour, Lac du Bonnet, Powerview, Grand Marais, Steinbach and Oakbank based on information they gained in an investigation called Project DEVELOP. Locally, 19-year-old Tyler Jordanov of La Broquerie, 24-yearold Danielle Stevens of Steinbach and 24-year-old Jeremy Unrau of Steinbach were all charged with two counts each of marijuana trafficking. Steinbach RCMP Corporal Sean Grunewald said that while the arrests were a good start there is still a lot of work to be done in the area. “We have a lot of hard drugs in the area and a lot of it is in Steinbach,” stated Grunewald. “We are trying to get to it but it takes task forces like this to really get into them.” The project, which was started in November 2010, focused primarily on street-level drug trafficking and resulted in over 100 charges being laid against 34 people, which primarily included trafficking in cocaine and marijuana. “I want to say how proud I am of all the members from our detachments on the front lines, this is a very important day for them,” said Assistant Commissioner Bill Robinson, Commanding Officer of the RCMP “D” Division. “They’ve been, over the past six months, collecting important intelligence relative to some gun and drug trafficking activities and this just goes to show just how much organized crime is impacting [not only] our large communities but also our smaller communities.” During the course of the investigation, police seized an estimated street value of $18,000 worth of drugs and 32 nonrestricted and six restricted firearms, which included pistols, rifles, and shotguns. While the majority of the drugs seized in the investigation were fairly standard, police also came across DMT, or dimethyltryptamine, a synthetic drug similar to ecstasy, uncommon to the Manitoba area. The DEVELOP investigation was designed to target smalltime street dealers with the intent of getting them out of circulation before they developed larger operations. Police said they do not believe the individuals arrested were working together but were wary of divulging whether or not they were linked to large organized crime syndicates like the Hells Angels. However, RCMP pointed out that often small-town dealers are eventually approached by and are initiated into crime organizations.
La Broquerie Hires Interim Administrator The RM of La Broquerie has hired Roger Bouvier as interim administrator for the municipality after putting out a call for applications last month. Reeve Claude Lussier says that council has decided that they would hire Bouvier on an interim basis while continuing to search for a more permanent solution. Bouvier has been working for the municipality under a term contract since the former administrator left back in February. “We received a number of applications including one from Roger,” explained Lussier. “We are hoping by retaining him we will have stability and cohesiveness in the office.” The RM of La Broquerie council agreed that while Bouvier is nearing retirement, he was a good choice based on his credentials. “He teaches the administrator course at the University of Manitoba and wants to teach our staff how to work as a team and do the job right,” explained Lussier. “Our staff has a lot of potential but they do need some training.” The RM of La Broquerie has seen quite a turnover of staff over recent years and council is optimistic that with Bouvier’s help the municipality will be capable of retaining skilled staff without issues. “We want a team that likes to work here,” Lussier concluded. Lussier stresses that while Bouvier has been hired as interim administrator, the search for a permanent replacement is still underway. Council is optimistic that they will be able to find a suitable bilingual candidate over the next few months.
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Cyclist Killed in Steinbach tried to flee the scene. Eyewitness accounts say that the driver had a green light when he was making the turn. The cyclist went under the trailer. “I was there when it happened,” stated one witness. “It was a terrible accident but hopefully people will learn from this – while riding a bike you do not have the right of way.” The intersection was closed for several hours while the RCMP, along with traffic analysts investigated the circumstances surrounding the accident. It is expected to take several weeks before the RCMP determine the exact circumstances of the accident. Olivia Nesom The semi-truck driver, from An 18-year-old woman from Mitchell, was uninjured in the Steinbach died as a result of a tragic accident. accident that took place at one of the community’s busiest intersections. On May 26, Steinbach RCMP responded to a collision between a semi-truck loaded with hogs and a cyclist. The accident occurred around 2:30 in the afternoon at the The Seine-Rat River Conservation corner of Hwy 12 and Highway 52. District will be conducting their Well Staff Sergeant Davy Lee said that Inventory program again this spring the semi-truck was making a legal and summer in Niverville. This will right turn onto Hwy 52 when the involve two Summer Resource driver struck the cyclist as she was Technicians employed by the crossing the highway. Eighteen- Conservation District going dooryear-old Olivia Nesom was killed as to-door offering free well water a result. testing for Nitrates and E. coli “The young woman died at the Bacteria. Please contact their office scene,” Lee confirmed. He verified at (204) 424-5845 for more the driver was making a legal turn information on this program or any and quashed the rumors the driver of their other programs.
Niverville Well Water Inventory
June 2011
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June 2011
Ste. Anne Celebrates Community Park
The project would never have seen completion without the hard work of this group of dedicated volunteers.
By Marianne Curtis In the middle of May, the community of Ste. Anne joined the four local schools to celebrate the completion and grand opening of the SPADE playground, a million dollar project. The SPADE Foundation (School Partnership for Active Daily Enjoyment) was created in 2003 to develop a recreational park for the community of Ste. Anne. Thanks to support from countless volunteers, the community and the provincial and federal governments, the $1 million dream has been realized. Louise Hingley, with Ecole Ste. Anne Immersion is excited about the completion of the project and subsequent celebration. “The field that was once covered with low spots and puddles, is now green, levelled, and even has a few low berms to sit on,” Hingley recalled. “Now the fields are high and dry and park benches have been installed.” Over the past eight years the group raised and invested over $650,000 to complete the project in various stages. A walkway connecting the four schools in Ste. Anne was built along with beach volleyball court, fitness stations, baseball diamond, paved walking, skateboarding, jogging, and a biking path that is lit up at night year round. “We want to send out a heartfelt thank you to Joanne Brunel who led this project from start to finish and dedicated many hours to complete this mission,” added Hingley. The $1 million project was completed through a partnership with the Town of Ste. Anne, Ste. Anne Soccer, École Pointe des Chênes, École Ste. Anne Immersion, Ste. Anne Elementary, Ste. Anne Collegiate and Garderie Petits Amis Daycare.
An aerial view of the new park located in Ste. Anne between the community’s schools.
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Chamber Honors Local Volunteers By Marianne Curtis On May 14, the community of St. Malo recognized a dozen local volunteers for their tireless dedication to the community. Lorraine Jones-Racine, president of the St. Malo & District Chamber of Commerce, was pleased with the event which is expected to become an annual occurrence. “There were nearly 50 nominations submitted for 12 adult and two youth volunteer awards,” Jones-Racine says. “The evening took more than 500 volunteer hours to plan, organize and host so I am very proud of my board of directors for their vision, dedication and hard work they put into this event.” There are 35 committees in the St. Malo area with approximately 240 volunteers that sit on the boards of these groups, she says. “These individuals make a difference,” Jone-Racine added. The 12 adult volunteers recognized during the event were Marcel Colette, Gabriel Catellier, Gisèle Marion, Gilles Forest, Hervé Marion, Gilles Hébert, Denis Hébert, Robert Lambert, Henri Harmonic, Orest Christiuk, Monique Catellier, and Léo Lafrance. The two youth volunteers honored were Justin Colette and Raelene Gosselin. The St. Malo and District Chamber of Commerce is already looking forward to next year’s banquet which is scheduled to take place May 12, 2012. Herve Marion was one of a fourteen volunteers recognized for their dedication to the community who received an award from event organizer Rachelle Laroche.
COMMUNITY EVENTS EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT TO EDITOR@DAWSONTRAIL.CA OR FAX 204-422-8548
Grande Pointe On Saturday, June 4, Grande Pointe will be having a Community Garage Sale in conjunction with their Concert in the Park event. There will be something for everyone, a slow pitch tournament, beer gardens, kid’s afternoon activities and a social evening featuring the live music of “BCUZ” and “The Other Side”. For more information or tickets, call Pat at 255-0825. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 ages 3-17. St. Adolphe The Red River Mission invites you to its Spaghetti supper and Cake auction fundraiser for roof repairs to the St. Adolphe church on Thursday, June 9 at 5 pm at the Pioneer Hall, St. Adolphe arena. Tickets are $10 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. For information, call Nicole at 883-2089 or Huguette at 883-2009. There will be an auction of delicious cakes after supper. Anola Everyone is invited to attend the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the Anola Community Club expansion. It will take place on Friday, June 24 at 2 pm at the Anola community club, 701 Dugald rd. in Anola, Manitoba. Please contact Valerie Ralke, chair of the acc expansion project at 204-866-2393. Vita The 12th Annual Walk Around the Block (rain date June 2), will take place Wednesday, June 1 at 1:30 pm. The walk starts at the Vita Personal Care Home and goes to Dr Toth Memorial Park. There will be refreshments and prizes. Niverville The Niverville Drama Club is performing the murder mystery comedy “Clewed Out”, written by Cathy Krahn, on June 3rd and 4th, 7:30 pm at the South End of the Arena in Niverville. Come meet Mr. Gelderbag, an American multi-millionare who buys up small Canadian businesses like Dyckson’s of Niverville. Gelderbag is inviting you, Professor Plum, Mrs. Peacock, Mrs. White, Miss Scarlet and Colonel Mustard to a murder mystery party. Butler Green will attend to you to the best of his limited capabilities as butler. Your favourite actors will be Keanan Byggdyn, Josiah and Bethany Speers, Karenza Mamchuck, Joel Wiebe, Conner Wiebe, and Chris Reimer. Cost is $7 at the door. Call Cathy at 388-4798 if you would like front row seat reserved. Mitchell There will be a Bolivia Nursing Home Fund Raiser on June 18 at the Mitchell Senior Centre. Free Will Offering. The Fundraiser is trying to raise funds in order to ship a container of beds, blankets and other items. Entertainment will be from 4:15 - 5:30 pm. There will be a Silent Auction from 4:30 - 6:45 pm and a live auction /slide show at 7:30 pm. For more info call Tina at 326-5181 Marchand 3rd Annual Biker Service at Marchand Chapel June 5 at 10 am. WORSHIP -BBQ LUNCH - AFTERNOON RIDE. Steinbach Every Saturday, from 9 am to 4 pm, beginning May 14th, members of the public will be able to bring their leaves, grass clippings, and any other garden cuttings to Steinbach’s Community Compost Depots! There are two depot locations, one at the Steinbach Junior High School track (77 Lumber Avenue) and one at Woodlawn School yard (411 Henry Street). This compost material is brought to the Landfill where it is composted and used in the City’s parks and gardens. Finished compost is also available for the public to pick-up at no charge! Steinbach EMC - 422 Main Street - will host an evening of high energy Praise and Worship on Friday evening, June 3rd. Doors open at 7:30 pm - music to start at 8 pm. Worship led by Adam Pepper and the musical group “Limitless”. Bring a friend! Veteran’s Appreciation Night. Bud, Spud & Steak Night at the Steinbach Legion Hall on Saturday, June 4. There will be Cocktails starting at 6 pm. Supper will be at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $15 each. For tickets call Carol at 326-4281. Football camp for children ages 5 - 10 years old, conducted by SRSS head football coach Jamie Peters. Camp being held at the SRSS field May 31; June 7; 14 and 21 at 6:00pm No obligation, come to one or come to all. No charge, no contact, no equipment, no experience necessary. Camp is geared towards developing skill but focusing on playing and having fun. For more info email japeters@hsd.ca. Bring used oil to the Eco Centre at the Steinbach Landfill (104 Hanover Rd. E.) on Wednesday, June 8, 11 am to 2 pm and receive new oil FREE! For every 5L of used oil, receive a coupon to pick up 1L of Coop 5W-30 oil FREE! Also, enjoy a hot dog and drink for $2. For more info visit www.steinbach.ca or call 346-6532. Elmdale School P.A.C. is having a Bud, Spud & Steak night as a Play Structure Fundraiser on Thursday, June 9th. It will run from 6 - 8 pm at the Frantz Motor Inn. Take a night off from cooking for a good cause!!There will be a Silent Auction & Dessert Auction also.
The Eastman Judged Art Exhibition invites all artisans living in the Eastman region to enter the 2011 Judged exhibition which will be held at the Niverville Heritage Centre this year on June 10 and 11th. The completion is open to all facets of art and the rules and entry form is available on line at www.nivervillestyle.ca. This is a great opportunity for local artists to showcase their talent locally and have it critiqued by experienced artists. So, get your application in early. The Manitoba Lotteries 55 plus games will be staged June 14-16 in Steinbach. There is a call for volunteers with a variety of opportunities available. For more information phone 320-4600. Canadian Blood Services is asking Steinbach and area residents to attend the blood donor clinic on Thursday, June 16. Over 200 blood donors are needed for this clinic from 12:30 - 3:30 & 5:00 - 8:00 pm at the Steinbach E.M.C. 422 Main St. New donors are also needed! Please call NOW 1 888 2 DONATE (1 888 236 6283). Saving lives together! The Steinbach Minor Hockey Association is hosting its 2nd annual fun filled 4-on-4 Street Hockey Tournament. Age Divisions are: 5 to 8 (’06-’03) 9 to 11 (’02-’00) 12 to 14 (’99-’97). Entry Free - $10 per Player, 4 players plus 1 goalie per team. All players receive a FREE STIX in the City T-shirt. REGISTRATION DEADLINE is JUNE 1st! The Annual Red Rock Bible Camp Cyclathon will take place Saturday, June 4. The purpose of the event is to raise funds to subsidize the summer camp program and to provide camperships for financially needy campers. Individuals, families and corporate teams are welcome. Phone 326-9784 or go to www.redrockbiblecamp.com for more information. Red Rock Bible Camp’s Open House is Sunday, June 5 from 10:30 am until 3 pm. The worship service will be at 11 am followed by a barbecue lunch and an afternoon of camp activities. General The Super Start program is a healthy baby program run through South Eastman Health. 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. In addition, 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, June 2 from 10 am - 12 pm at the Blumenort EMC Church. Tuesday, June 7 from 10 am - 12 pm in the Family Hut in the South Oaks School, Grunthal. Wednesday, June 8 from 10 am - 12 pm at Ste. Anne Dayspring Fellowship. Thursday, June 9 from 10 am - 12 pm at Village Oaks, Kleefield. Tuesday, June 14 from 10 am - 12 pm at the 4th Ave. Bible Church, Niverville. Thursday, June 16 from 10 am - 12 pm in the St. Pierre Health Corner, 354 Prefontaine Ave. Tuesday, June 20 from 10 am - 12 pm at the East Borderland Primary Healthcare Centre, Sprague. Tuesday, June 28 from 10 am - 12 pm in the Ste. Agathe Hall. For more information please call terry from super start at 346-7021 or just drop in.
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More Than Just News!
June 2011
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Run for Mom Huge Success Five hundred and thirty five participants took part in the third annual Run for Mom which took place in Steinbach on Mother’s Day. The annual Run for Mom is a Steinbach and area community event consisting of a 10 km Run, a 5 km Family Run/Walk and Kids Run took place May 8th. “Our mission is to promote an active lifestyle and to raise money for designated community initiatives,” stated organizer Greg Penner. “This year ’s event marked our fourth successful year with 535 registered participants – that’s up by about seventy-five.” The annual Run for Mom is used to raise funds for Anna’s House, a non-
Hanover Unveils New High School
profit resource centre located in Steinbach that supports families in the area through a variety of programs. In the 10 km, Jamie Falk of Winnipeg came in first for the men and Erin Schinkel from Winnipeg for the women. The top two runners in the 5 km were Kris Doerksen of Steinbach for the men and Sara Taylor from Steinbach for the women. Jared Johnson of Mitchell was the first boy 17 and under to cross the finish line in the 5 km and Brooke Gauthier of Winnipeg was the first girl. In the 10 km for the same age group Cody Price from Steinbach was the first boy and Brittany Klassen from Steinbach was the only girl that participated in the race.
By Marianne Curtis
Over five hundred people participated in this year’s Run for Mom which took place in Steinbach on Mother’s Day.
The Basics We have all had a desire for wealth and prosperity. We all wish to have the comforts that come from a healthy income. I wonder, if we were to give our body the same consideration and look at our health the same way we look at wealth, would we choose a diet that continues to keep us on a path of high energy and optimum performance? From day one, would we go only to quality foods full of nutrition? Would we only replenish our body with nutrients to perform the millions of physiological functions every day from “healthy” food and leave behind anything that was not useful? I know you have heard “you are what you eat”, and you need to “eat to live”. Good food is the basis of good health. There are so many links today to set you
on a healthy road. Internet information at our fingertips, show after TV show on health. We love this! But we often ignore the message. My future articles will talk of many healthy topics too. However, will you heed the message? If you would use only poor quality supplies on your business, bankruptcy would likely be the result. So I say get to the basics today! Start researching. Look at what’s in the food you are giving your body. Then ask, is this for the “Wealth of my Health”? Raylene Snow is the owner/ operator of Raylene’s Wellness Spa, located between Ste. Anne and Giroux.
With construction of a new middle school in Steinbach well underway, the Hanover School Division recently unveiled preliminary plans for a new regional high school. At a public meeting on May 24 Ron Falk, planning committee chairperson, said that it was good to finally be able to show off the new plans. “Over the past few months we have been showing the plans to groups informally but this is the first time that the public gets a look,” stated Falk. “Excitement is starting to build.” Superintendent Ken Klassen said that the forum is a good opportunity to share the history and the future of the facility. The new high school will be added onto the Steinbach Regional High School. “The Steinbach high school campus will provide (by the end of 2013) two thousand Steinbach and area grade 9 to 12 with first rate vocational and academic programming in an inviting and safe atmosphere,” stated Klassen. The school is designed to include a “mall” area near the front entrance that will house a coffee shop and bring the cosmetology department to the front of the school. “This will be a very welcoming space for visitors when they walk through the front door,” added Klassen. The plan also includes building another gym, a larger music room and arts area, a daycare and nursery. The gym will also be designed so that it can be opened up into another room so there is room for large functions. Now that the preliminary drawings are complete, the next step required is for the Hanover School Division to submit the plans to the province for approval. Once that approval is given the project needs to go through another series of planning meetings before the final construction drawings can be laid out.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
June 2011
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Returning Thieves Nabbed by RCMP It’s time to sign up for Fall Programs – at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre – for ages 3-99! Southeast School of Dance offers: Dress Up Song & Dance, Hop N Bop, Creative Movement, Pre-Ballet, Ballet, Creative Tap, Urban Ballet. For Teens: Youth Pops, Pop Dance, Jazz, Hip Hop. New Classes include Techinique, Jazz and Irish Dance. Backyard Theatre offers Actors Playhouse, Dress Up Drama, Acting Exploration, and Extreme Acting. Visual Arts: Photography, Teens art, Animation, Watercolour, Pottery, Jewellery Making, Acrylics, Play Date with Art, Art Exploring, Art Fusion and more! Other Community Programs include Arts for Tots Pre-school, French and Spanish languages, Social Dance, Social Dance, Belly Dance, Kids in the Kitchen, Creative Cooking, and Photography Club. Wellness Classes: Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Body Pump, and Stability Ball. Music classes: Manitoba Conservatory of Music offers lesions in Voice, Piano, Theory and violin. User Groups: Southeastern Manitoba Music Teachers, Southeastern Manitoba Festival, Eastman choral Association, and XCOMPANY – hip hop, wushu, breakdance and more! www.xcompanydsf@yahoo.ca
Calling all Seniors Grandma and Grandpa’s Green Thumbs - starts June 6th. Need seniors to share their love of gardening with local elementary students. Call Samantha, 346-1077
Looking for Visual Artists Display/sell your works in the Artists in the City tent – painting, drawing, pottery, sculpture. Demonstrate your talents, and receive an honorarium. Check out www.summerinthecity.ca for application details or call 346-1077.
KR Barkman Concerts in the Park Runs May 26 to July 5 at KR Barkman Park on Main street, Steinbach. We are Excited to announce our performers for K.R. Barkman Park Concerts 2011. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the fabulous music. Line-up includes: June 2 - In-Seine River Jazz Band, Thursday, 7 pm June 5 - Alyssa Friesen, Shannon Shewchuk, Soul Purpose - 7 pm June 10 - SRSS Music Department, Jazz bands, vocal groups - 7 pm June 12 - Jason Petric, Jason Kirkness - 7 pm June 24 - Trevor Johnson, TBA - 7 pm June 26 - Shannon Patterson, Mint *2 p.m. * Local Artists painting in the Park July 5 - Walk the Line, McKenzie Road and Corny ‘Elvis’ Rempel - 7 pm
Summer in the City Festival June 17 and 18. Free outdoor fun. Lots of events and two days of entertainment on the Prudential Stage featuring local artists. Headliners are Trooper on Friday night and George Canyon on Saturday. Tickets are available at SAC office. See artists painting on the street, food vendors, midway, and more! Volunteers needed to help with stage production, set up, and visual arts activities, the children’s tent and more.
Summer Art Day Camps Have the best summer ever! 4-day and 5-day camps for kids ages 5-12 years, running from July 11- August 26. Experience activities in music, dance, drama, visual arts and sports/recreation, swimming, and physical arts. Camp themes: Blast from the Past, Topsy Turvy Holidays, A Pirates Life for Me!, Sporty Camp, Heritage Hunt, and Year 3000.
Summer Stay in Shape Dance Camp July 18-22, by Sasha Smith for ages 7-12 years. Learn new techniques, develop your personal dance style, and create your own choreography.
Hall Gallery Exhibits Features Southeast Artists Group. June 1-27. Artists from the region will have their works for display and sale.
Arts for Tots Preschool Program Only a few spaces left for Arts for Tots Preschool Program. Early Registration for Fall 2011. The most creative way to learn early child development through dance, theatre, music and visual arts – for ages 3-5. Instructors: Miss Carol & Miss Pam. Mondays and Wednesdays; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 - 11:30 am and 1 - 3:30 pm.
Looking for Board Nominees Serve on the Steinbach Arts Council Board of Directors for the 2011-2012 season. A willingness to support community programs, an interest in the arts, and ability to give a little time to this policy making board is required. Call 346-1077 for more info, or email director@steinbachartscouncil.ca Annual General Meeting - June 22, 7 pm, Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre.
On May 6, the Steinbach RCMP were called to the Steinbach Canadian Tire and the Steinbach Shoppers Drug Mart for two separate reports of shop lifting. In the Canadian Tire incident, four individuals were reported to have stolen several cameras worth approximately $1,500. At the Shopper’s Drug Mart, four individuals attempted to steal make up but dropped the property after being confronted by security. From reviewing surveillance photos police were able to determine that the suspects were the same in both thefts. On May 7, Steinbach RCMP received a call from the Steinbach Canadian Tire and were advised that two of the suspects from the day before were once again back in the store. Police attended and arrested both suspects without incident. Helen Jean Boucher, aged 29, of Winnipeg, was charged with two counts of theft and two counts of breach a probation order. She was released on a recognizance for a court date in June. Harley James Henderson, also of Winnipeg, was charged with two counts of thefts and several breaches of court orders. He was remanded into custody. Steinbach RCMP are currently attempting to identify the other two suspects that were involved. If you have any information regarding this incident, you are asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP at 204-326-4452.
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June 2011
Firefighters Issue Breakfast Invitation
More Than Just News! The RM of Tache Fire Department is inviting the public to come out and enjoy a fundraising pancake breakfast and open house. The 1-day event will be taking place June 11 at the Landmark Fire Hall from at 8 am until noon. Visitors will be able to enjoy freshly flipped pancakes and sausage cooked by the local fire department. Attendees will also have an opportunity to check out all the municipal fire trucks, watch a JAWS demonstration with the department’s brand new equipment and participate in a silent auction. Money raised at the event will go towards helping the department purchase a thermo imaging camera. Thermal imaging cameras pick up body heat and are normally used in cases where people are trapped and rescuers cannot find them. It will cost the RM of Tache Fire Department $15,000 for the purchase.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Niverville Club Get Upgrade Funding
Niverville Curling Club receiving $2,000 and a plaque from Monsanto. Andrew Kaminsky (Monsanto), Dustin Krahn (president), Heather Martens, Donna Watts (Recreation and Wellness Director), Joel Martens, John Falk (Town Councillor), John Stott, Marc Loeppky (missing: Kevin Stott)
By Marianne Curtis The Niverville Curling Club was one of a ten curling clubs in three provinces to be named as winners in the Monsanto’s Imagine a Better Home Contest. The prize was $2,000 towards rink upgrades at the club’s Niverville facility. The club boasts three sheets of natural ice and has seen amazing growth this year with a record 300 curlers playing at the club this past season. There are three mixed leagues, along with 2 on 2 bonspiels, curling clinics and other fun events to encourage new curlers to pick up a rock or broom. The Monsanto’s Imagine a Better Home Contest was launched back in 2008 with the aim of assisting small-town curling clubs in Western Canada with local improvement projects. This year nine other curling clubs from Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta took home cash prizes of $10,000, $5000 and $2,000 to assist with a wide array of improvement projects at their local clubs. Monsanto is an agricultural company and a leading global provider of technology-based solutions and agricultural products that improve farm productivity and food quality.
The End Good news everyone! I am happy to inform all of you that if you’re reading this column then you’ve survived the end of the world! According to those who like to predict the end of the world, the world was supposed to end on May 21, 2011. Thankfully, it did not. After all, I still have some more fishing that I’d like to do this summer. Not to worry though, the new date for the last day is now October 21, 2011. While I could go into what the Bible says about the final days, that’s not really the direction that I would like this month’s column to go. Instead, I would like to head towards more of a philosophical field of thought and discussion. This thought being that if you knew without a doubt that the world was going to end on a certain day, what would you do? Would you run around trying to get the word out to as many people as possible? Would you contact the newspapers and television stations? How about run down the street yelling that the world is about to be finished? I don’t think I’d do that, after all, do I really want to spend my last days on Earth being thought of as a lunatic… not that I mind being considered a lunatic, more to the fact that no one would believe me and it’d be a waste of my time. Depending on how much time there was until the end, would you travel the world and see as much as you could see? Would you go and do wild and exciting things like skydiving, cliff jumping or maybe even a bungeejump or two? For myself, I think that I’d like to just hang around at home with my family. We’d play all the games that the kids could think up and pretty much eat as much junk food as we wanted. How about your possessions? Would you give them away or clutch tighter onto them? This is a trickier question. First off, what if you gave it all away and then it turns out that you’re wrong? Second, if the world is going to end, whether you give it away or keep it doesn’t really matter since it will be gone soon enough for everyone. One of the few reasons to give it all away could be to make yourself and others feel better. After all, if you’re the only one who believes it’s about to end, why not give someone else a bit of joy. While I could go on and on, it seems that this month’s column has now come to the end. Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
June 2011
Ride for Breast Cancer Research Comes to Manitoba By Marianne Curtis Horse lovers and riding enthusiasts are invited to hit the trail for three weeks this fall when the first ever Manitoba Wild Pink Yonder makes its way throughout the region while raising funds for breast cancer research. Pam Glover and a volunteer committee have been making their rounds to various communities along the route to gather community support and volunteers. The ride which started three years ago in Alberta will kick off September 10 in Morden, meander through southern Manitoba until the final stop on October 1 in Birds Hill Park. The trail covers 265 miles and brings the group through 28 communities. “Our goal is to raise money for research with the final goal to find a cure for breast cancer,” explained Glover. “Anyone over twelve can participate in the ride but we are hoping that communities along the trail will support us in whatever way possible.” The Wild Pink Yonder can accommodate up to 30 riders per day and anyone over the age of 12 can participate. Riders can join at any point and travel either a few miles or as long as they want as long as they raise at least $200 per day in pledges for each day of the ride they want to participate in. Riders are encouraged to give Glover a call at 422-8076 for rider info. Glover, who has volunteered in the Alberta rides has a personal reason for taking on this momentous event. “After I lost my stepdaughter Shannon to breast cancer I went looking for a way to help,” Glover shared. “Shannon was very big on doing the walks and the runs - she knew it wouldn’t help her but was determined to try to help others. Instead of whining about needing a cure, I decided to Trail Boss Jane Hurl, her son Rusty and Pam Glover worked so well together in Waterton Lake, Alberta that they are bringing the take a cue from her and do something.” successful Wild Pink Yonder fundraising ride for breast cancer to Manitoba. Communities can get involved by raising funds which are designated for Cancer Care Manitoba. Some communities will be asked to host the riders by giving them a safe place to camp for the night, feed the group and provide entertainment. “The ride is extremely exciting, especially when the entire community is involved in making our stay as PINK as possible,” she added. “In Alberta, many people have said they have never seen their towns pull together for any event as they did for Wild Pink Yonder. I can see that happening in towns here in Manitoba already. In many, fundraising has already started and many of the towns are also planting pink flowers in their town planters this summer.” Communities along the trail where the group will be making either lunch or overnight stops include Niverville, Ile Des Chenes, Landmark, Otterburne, St. Pierre, La Rochelle, St. Malo, Grunthal, Kleefeld, New Bothwell, Blumenort, Steinbach, La Broquerie, Richer, Ste. Anne, Lorette, Dugald and Oakbank. Volunteers are desperately needed in a variety of areas either in communities or on the ride itself. Anyone interested in participating can visit the www.wildpinkyondermanitoba.com for more information.
Keeping Your Best Interest in Mind What is important to you as a consumer? As a consumer in real property, you may want to have representation by a licensed Realtor. Realtors are trained professionals. As a consumer you need to team up with someone who will be looking out for your best interest, not just someone who is on their way to closing their next deal. Buying or selling a property can be one of the biggest financial decisions that a person can make in a lifetime. You want to be sure you have someone who is representing you with honesty, integrity and professionalism. When you’re shopping for a home you want to have someone who will show you all the homes on the market in your price range. It is important to know that as a member of the Winnipeg Real Estate Board, a realtor can show and sell any listing (property) that is listed on the Multiple Listing Service. Don’t be limited by someone who insists on showing you only their exclusive listings. If you’re selling your property be sure to list with a Realtor who considers themselves a member of a network or team of professionals. Don’t limit yourself to having one person market your home? Be represented by a Realtor who sees the value in having the network of professionals working with them to sell your home, to show your house to their prospective buyers. When you list with a Realtor who believes in the success in the MLS system and uses it you will have all Realtors representing you. That is 1400+ real estate professionals. A professional real estate salesperson will also have a team of professionals in their circle to help with answers to other questions… like a home inspector, mortgage broker. Stay tuned for more real estate news and updates. ‘Til next time… If you have any questions call Travis Olifirowich at 371-7223 or Eileen Lewis at 371-0255 at Prudential Riverbend Realty.
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More Than Just News!
June 2011
Richert Shows Well in Italy Niverville native David Richert completed his first ever open-wheel race May 8 and finished things off in style with a thrilling last lap pass through the grass at Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, Italy. Richert, one of 25 racecar drivers from around the world, took part in the Formula Renault Italia championship races as Canada’s only representative in the event. Things got off to a tough start when his car suffered mechanical failure in two of Friday’s three practice sessions. With just a fraction of the experience of other drivers in the field, this setback really made things difficult as Richert spent the rest of the weekend trying to catch up. He admits that while he wasn’t on the track alone, he was racing against himself in an effort to bring his car up to speed in unfamiliar conditions. “I’m happy that I was able to improve my lap times in every session,” stated Richert, “Although it’s a struggle to compete with the higher experience levels and budgets that the other drivers have, I learnt a lot and managed to keep the car in one piece, so hopefully, we’ll move
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Success for Southeast Business Women
Niverville racecar driver, David Richert was the only Canadian driver competing in the Formula Renault Italia race that took place in Imola, Italy on May 8.
towards the front soon.” Starting from 19th position Richert was able to work his way up to finish 16th by passing French driver Herve Clement on the final lap of the race. In a wheel-to-wheel battle approaching the tight Variante Alta corner, Richert was forced to overtake by sailing through the grass. After holding off Clement
through the final corner, he was greeted by cheering Team Torino Motorsport crewmembers as he streaked across the finish line just 0.377 seconds ahead of the French driver. Richert is now at home gearing up for a return to Italy for futures races this season including one at the world famous track at Monza.
Raylene Snow, president, networking with member Liz Katynski.
The Women’s Business Network of Southeast Manitoba (www.womensbiz.ca) held their Annual General Meeting on May 17, hosted at the Log Haven Lodge in St Malo owned by Lorraine Jones-Racine. The current executive will remain… President: Raylene Snow, VicePresident and Treasurer: Anni Markmann, Secretary and Moderator: Nancy Brommell and Meeting Coordinator: Susan Kadobiansky. The members and guests were treated to a beautiful sunny, warm evening and enjoyed the meal outdoors. An introduction of all the women in business attending was followed by a quick overview of the 2010 activities, events, and financials. To end the evening, Marian Hiebert of Moments Photography by Marian presented a short talk on Digital Marketing. The evening closed with a lot of networking and exchanging of ideas and business cards. It was a very inspiring evening! This group has tripled in size since 2009 and now has close to 50 members. All women business owners are welcome to join this vibrant group by visiting the www.womensbiz.ca or by calling Nancy Brommell at 803-6990.
Calling All Up-And-Comers Youth Business Camps Set to Launch this Summer Budding entrepreneurs and future product developers will want to attend the “R Biz Camp” for rural youth. The one week long, day camps organized by Community Futures Triple R Corporation and CDEM (Conseil de Développement Économique des Municipalités Bilingues du Manitoba) will focus on teaching kids basic business skills and culminate with a mini trade show where they will sell their products. “We really wanted to work with youth; they have the energy and creativity that will be leading our communities, says Debbi Fortier, CEO at Triple R. “The camps are a really fun way to encourage and educate kids about self employment.” Campers aged 9 to 13, will learn about idea development, business plans, understanding financials and marketing a business. Using seed money provided through the program, campers will purchase supplies and develop a product. Campers will sell their goods at a mini trade show and hopefully generate a profit for their efforts. The camps will be hosted in three rural communities. The English camps in Niverville, July 4th to the 8th, 2011 and Altona, July 25th to the 29th, 2011 and the French camp in St. Malo from July 18th to the 23rd. More information and registration forms are available at www.cftripler.ca (English) and www.cdem.com (French). Availability is limited to 15 campers per session and will be on a first come first serve basis. “The goal of the camp is to instil a spirit of entrepreneurship in youth, to provide a strong reason for youth to stay in rural Manitoba communities and to start the development of business planning skills needed for a new generation of business owners,” says Simon Méthot, Youth Projects Officer at CDEM. Community Futures Triple R Corporation provides community development and business development services to 17 RM’s, towns and villages in the Southeast and South-central region of Manitoba.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
Steinbach Ready for Summer In The City
June 2011
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Toews Named to New National Security Team
Re-elected Provencher MP Vic Toews is welcomed back to Ottawa by Prime Minster Steven Harper.
By Marianne Curtis Rockers of all ages are expected to enjoy Trooper on Friday night.
Canadian Country star George Canyon takes the stage on Saturday night.
By Marianne Curtis The City of Steinbach is gearing up for an exciting couple days when the 3rd Annual Summer in the City Festival takes place on June 17 to 18. The 2-day community event showcases local arts and entertainment with headline performances by rock group Trooper on Friday and Canadian country star George Canyon on Saturday. Keith Unger, Chairperson for the Summer in the City Festival, anticipates that the annual event, which is in its third year, will exceed the success of previous years. “This year we are looking forward to even bigger and better things,” stated Unger. “Main Street in Steinbach is the perfect venue for us to celebrate the diverse culture, arts, and entertainment from the Community. What a great weekend to create lifelong family memories with attractions for everyone to come enjoy our great city” Dozens of food vendors, artists and crafters are expected to line Main Street in Steinbach starting at noon on Friday. The entertainment hits the big stage Friday following the opening ceremonies at noon. Entertainment is free until 5:00 p.m. Some of the events include a Friday night Show ’n Shine,
midway, a street hockey tournament, along with the returning festival of food and showcase of local arts and entertainment. There will also be tons of children’s activities, skateboard and sporting demonstrations and emerging cultural entertainers. New this year will be the “Sale in the City” event, which is encouraging Main Street businesses to host their sidewalk sales over the weekend. Kyla Murray from the Chamber of Commerce said the first time the annual Sales in the City will coincide with the community’s third annual Summer in the City Festival. “We are partnering with Summer in the City to make our campaign bigger and better than ever,” explained Murray. “We are excited to revitalize what has been a very successful campaign for many years and we hope that the rebranding will help to make it a more effective promotion for our business community.” Tickets for Trooper and George Canyon are available at Earl’s Meat Market and Steinbach Dodge, MTS Connect and Steinbach Arts Council or online at www.steinbachsummerinthecity.ca. Costs are $25 each or $45 for both nights.
Provencher MP Vic Toews has been named vice chairperson for the new Cabinet Committee on National Security. This appointment came after the re-elected MP was reappointed as Canada’s Minister of Public Safety, a post he held prior to the election. The new committee, chaired by Prime Minister Stephen Harper, will provide broad strategic direction on security and foreign policy related to Canada’s national interests, and oversee Canada’s national security planning and activities. Toews is pleased with the appointment. “Canadians elected a strong, stable, national government to make Canadian families safer in our communities,” said Toews. ”I am honoured to have been selected by Prime Minister Harper to play this important role in guiding our country’s approach to national security and foreign policy.” On the committee, Toews will be working closely with Justice Minister and Attorney General Rob Nicholson; Defence Minister Peter MacKay; International Cooperation Minister Bev Oda; Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird; Transport Minister Denis Lebel; and Immigration Minister Jason Kenney. As reappointed Minister of Public Safety, Toews adds that he is also looking forward to finishing what he started before the election. “My first priority is to bundle a number of justice bills into one omnibus criminal law bill,” he says. “Once done this will significantly reform our criminal justice system.” Toews will also serve on the Cabinet Committee on Priorities and Planning and the Cabinet Committee on Social Affairs.
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More Than Just News!
June 2011
Accident Claims Local Teacher
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Additional Funding Funneled into Île Des Chênes
By Marianne Curtis A teacher from the Hanover School Division is dead after a 2-vehicle collision earlier in May. Around 6:30 p.m. on May 5, St. Pierre RCMP, along with Niverville Fire and De Salaberry EMS, were called to the scene of a two-vehicle accident east of the community involving a motorcycle and a vehicle. The collision occurred at the intersection of Hwy 311 and Municipal Road 20, two miles east of the Town of Niverville. Police say that the investigation indicates that the motorcycle was traveling west on Hwy 311 when the driver collided with the passenger side of a 2003 Chevrolet Blazer that was crossing the highway heading northeast. The driver of the SUV failed to stop at the controlled crossing, RCMP confirmed. The driver of the motorcycle, 32year-old Ryan Letkeman from Niverville, was transported to hospital where he was pronounced dead. According to family, Ryan had just purchased the motorcycle in the States and was heading into Niverville to show off his new purchase to family and friends. “His final ride became his glory ride,” read his obituary. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. There were four occupants in the blazer, including the 18-year-old driver, and three passengers, two aged 18, and one aged 16 who also
Ryan Letkeman
were from Niverville. None of the occupants were reported to be injured. No other vehicles or persons were reported to be involved in this collision. After spending a year teaching full time in Grunthal, Letkeman decided to become a substitute teacher, which placed him in classrooms throughout the Hanover School Division. When students returned to class on Friday, Hanover School Division had support staff available in several of the division’s schools to help students cope with the loss, especially Niverville Collegiate. Several sources allege that Letkeman taught all four occupants of the SUV at that school.
La Verendrye MLA Ron Lemieux congratulates the community for their hard work and commitment towards seeing that the Île des Chênes Community Centre and Garderie Île des Chênes Daycare Centre are completed.
By Marianne Curtis The Province of Manitoba recently invested an additional $250,000 toward green projects at the Île des Chênes Community Centre. On May 19, La Verendrye MLA Ron Lemiuex was on hand personally to announce that the province is contributing an additional $250,000 towards the facility, bringing the total of contribution to $935,000. “These include the installation of equipment to access the geothermal heating and cooling system located in the newly completed Île des Chênes Arena, as well as other energy efficient and water conservation upgrades to further improve the environmental sustainability of the community center,” explained Lemiuex. The funding has been broken down as $430,000 for the geothermal plant in the arena; $200,000 in capital costs for the Garderie Île des Chênes Daycare; $40,000 from the Community Places Program to help with the geothermal project; $10,000 towards the kitchen in the community center and $5,000 towards paving the community centre parking lot. Families in Île des Chênes and surrounding area will also see the benefits of recent investments in childcare from the provincial government. The province has committed $200,000 in new capital funding for the Garderie Île des Chênes Daycare Centre, located in Île des Chênes, for a new facility, which will include 94 childcare spaces. “This is a great initiative for our community,” Lemiuex continued. “The daycare will be serving residents of Île des Chênes and area for years to come.” This capital investment for Île des Chênes is part of 46 capital projects province-wide over the next two years. This includes 25 new centers and the revitalization of 21 others.
Construction Begins on Arborgate School Over the next few months the community of La Broquerie will be able to watch the landscape change now that construction at Arborgate School has begun. Seine River School Division board chairperson Wendy Bloomfield is thrilled to see that construction is moving along. “We have been waiting so long to see this project start that it seems unreal,” stated Bloomfield. “Work is on schedule and in about a year we will be looking at opening the new building and beginning renovations on the old building.”
Arborgate Principal Teresa Yestrau is also glad to see the project moving ahead. “After years of waiting and wondering, the construction has begun,” stated Yestrau. “Shortly after spring break the fences went up and the bulldozers moved in.” While the construction is exciting, the school did have to make some alternative plans to accommodate students outdoors. “The playground got very small,” Yestrau added. To accommodate the loss of outdoor play space the school created other activities for the students instead of everyone going outside during recess. The RM of La Broquerie has even offered up their property as a playground. The new school will be a two-story building that adds new classroom space without losing any of the playground. The new building will increase the size of the school by almost 40,000 square feet. Once the construction is complete, the current building will then be renovated so that the entire building will hold 450 students.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
Snowbirds – Filing a U.S. Tax Return Exception? Do you travel to the U.S. for the winter for long periods of time? If so, you may need to file an exception to filing a U.S. tax return that is due June 15 each year. If you don’t want to face some possible penalties, you may need to file a form called the Closer Connection Exception Statement for Aliens, IRS form 8840. Many people think that if you spend less than 180 days in the U.S., you are safe. But that is not completely correct. It depends on how many days you spent in the U.S. in the past three years. If you spent more than 121 days in each of the past three years (2010, 2009, and 2008) you should be filing for an exception. The exception acknowledges that you had a significant presence in the U.S., but that you have closer ties to Canada. Here’s how the formula works: calculate the number of days you were in the U.S. in 2010 (for some snow birds that is often January to maybe April and sometimes November and December). Then calculate the number of days for 2009 and for 2008. You need to file for an exception if you are considered to have a “substantial presence” in the U.S. in the past three years. If it exceeds 182 days, you need to file. You use a formula that works like this: you include all the days in 2010, one third of the days in 2009 and one sixth of the number of days in 2008. So you are close to the 183 days if you spent 121 days in each of the three years (2010 – 121 days; 2009 is 40 days (1/3 of 121) and 2008 is 20 days (1/6 of 121). That totals 181. You are very close to having to file; remember the magic number is 183 days. Why has this not been a big deal in the past? Well, it was harder for the U.S. government to keep track of you. Remember we could cross the border with just our driver’s license and birth certificate. Now we need our passports. And don’t you think they are keeping track of when you came into the country and when you leave?? So if you think you might qualify as having a “substantial presence” in the U.S., better get that form completed. You can find it on the U.S. taxation (IRS) website: www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8840.pdf If you don’t have access to the internet, or you need some help, give me a call or drop by my office. Final reminder to those of you that are self employed. The filing tax deadline for us is June 15 to avoid any penalties. Of course, the interest on what we owed started accruing on April 30, but at 5 percent interest, it’s not too bad. So get your tax information in soon. I still need to get mine filed before June 15 after I get everyone else’s looked after first! Anni Markmann is a tax professional and an independent financial advisor working, living, and volunteering in our community. Contact Anni at annimarkmann@mts.net or 422-6631 or 107 Central Ave in Ste Anne.
June 2011
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More Than Just News!
June 2011
Another Year, Another Flood The unwanted yearly soaking has become commonplace. We seem destined to experience this annual calamity as a necessary rite of passage. To alter its impact is perhaps possible, but to eliminate it is beyond our present capacity for the foreseeable future. In retrospect and at first glance our forefather’s choice of location to build our inheritance seems a wee bit wet as far as ideas go. But it’s far more likely than not that our collective present mistakes are coming home to roost. Two things have come to pass that our forbearers saw in a different light than we do. One, waterfront property has begun to lose its blush and second, sandbags are not a good landscape ornament Our geography, although not entirely unique, is unusually large in the area which it must drain, four provinces and parts of four states have water flowing through Manitoba. Lately, it resembles a very large storm sewer. This is a huge watershed. Under normal conditions, if there is such a thing, this eco system is a great benefit to all. However, over the last 15 years, waiting for the flood has become the norm, the only question is who will it be that gets too much? Lake Winnipeg needs to be dredged and its phosphate content reduced. Much of it has been imported from beyond our borders. Yes, this is an argumentative point but a valid point nevertheless. The Red River valley has seen
much improvement in flood protection and now it appears that the Assiniboine Valley needs attention. It is also necessary to remember that many square kilometres drain through our province, for which we must negotiate cost of improvement to ward off devastation. To my knowledge, no other province or state contributes to the maintenance of this storm sewer. It is fair to point out that local and neighbouring land use (or abuse) is a contributing factor of high water run off and pollution. Too much need for quick drainage upstream requires impossible dykes and ditches downstream. When local authorities have to deliberately flood a few to save many you know the equations have reached a breaking point. Leadership is required to bring all off these watershed partners to the table, and this is far beyond the mandate of the provincial government. Plus, dangerously wet beyond this date is now far below the high water mark. To argue at this point that this change in weather patterns is manmade is counter productive. Yes, partly. It could be a natural cyclical phenomenon, but to state categorically that the excess carbon in the atmosphere is not contributing to excessive moisture is ridiculous and to continue with this leadership decision is criminal, aside from ignoring science. To see that this is repeating itself all over the world in devastating weather related
Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.
The Dawson Trail Dispatch is a monthly newspaper distributed free of charge to 50 Southeastern Manitoba communities. Published by: One One Consultants Inc. Box 308, Richer, MB R0E 1S0 Phone: (204) 422-8548 Fax: (204) 422-9768 Dan Guetre, Managing Editor One One Consultants Inc., Publisher News Writers: Marianne Curtis, and Dan Guetre Columnists: Lee Guetre, Peter Friesen, Anni Markmann, Peter Martens, Production/Design: Dan Guetre, Myriam Dyck, Linda Bennett and Wilma Priebe Advertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
IDC Receives Additional $250,000 for Community Center disasters is worrisome. The increase in human toll is frightening. The dollar cost is increasing dramatically and I do not see any positive concerted action until a fair price is attached to carbon. I see the topping up of the disaster part of the annual budget as a continuing expense, and I am surprised that the insurance corporations are not applying any pressure. Are they waiting until flood insurance has become too expensive for individuals to consider this as an option? If we, as taxpayers, foot an ever increasing cost due to weather, why are large carbon emitters’ tax bills going down? The right of carbon emitters to profit at any cost is too damned expensive for my liking. Lets remember the old adage, “necessity is the mother of invention” and cost drives necessity. Therefore it stands to reason that cost be apportioned to the responsible.
The Île-des-Chênes community center has received an additional $250,000 for green projects. These include the installation of equipment to access the geothermal heating and cooling system located in the newly completed Île-des-Chênes Arena, as well as other energy efficient and water conservation upgrades to further improve the environmental sustainability of the community centre. The province of Manitoba is pleased to support environmentally friendly community projects. We have also contributed the following to Île-des-Chênes: - $430,000 for the geothermal plant in the arena - $200,000 in capital costs for the Garderie Île-des-Chênes Daycare - $40,000 from the Community Places Program to help with the geothermal project - $10,000 towards the kitchen in the community center
No More Excuses on NDP Bi-Pole Decision Ever since the NDP government made the decision to run a new hydro transmission line from the northeastern part of Manitoba down to a convertor station near Winnipeg along the west side of the province instead of the far shorter east side route, Manitobans have questioned the reasons for the decision. This is particularly true for residents of southeastern Manitoba where the line will cross if the NDP have their way. After all, an east side route would be shorter, cheaper, more reliable and better for the environment. Now, as the result of a secret internal Manitoba Hydro report that was leaked late in May, we have new insight as to the opinion of experts at Manitoba Hydro regarding the decision. The report, prepared in 2005 for the Board of Manitoba Hydro, says that a west side route for the Bi-Pole III transmission line could not be recommended because of the significant problems it would cause. These significant problems include an increase in Hydro rates for Manitoba customers, a decrease in the reliability of the Hydro system, and an increase in waste of electrical power because of the longer length of the line. All this without providing any environmental benefits. In short, the experts at Manitoba Hydro said that it would be unjustifiable in the short and long term to build a new Hydro line on the long west side route. Just a short time after receiving this report, the NDP government ignored the experts at Hydro and ordered that the west side route be built. It is often said that Manitoba Hydro should be as important to our province as oil is to Alberta. However, this will never be the case if the NDP government continues to interfere in the decisions of Hydro. Completely ignoring the advice of Hydro experts defeats the purpose of having these very professionals within Manitoba Hydro. The decision to go down the west side and cut through prime farmland in southern Manitoba will impact generations in our province. It will result in higher Hydro rates and be of no benefit to the environment as compared to other routes according to the internal Hydro report. This fall when your NDP candidate comes knocking at your door looking for your vote, you should ask them why it is they think they know more than the experts at Manitoba Hydro and why it is that they are supporting a decision that will have such negative long-term implications for the province. I appreciate your comments and concerns. If you have any comments on these or other issues, you can contact me by writing, #3 – 227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, by phone at (204) 326-5763, by fax at (204) 346-9913, by e-mail at kelvin.goertzen@leg.gov.mb.ca or by visiting my website at www.kelvingoertzen.com. I look forward to hearing from you.
- $5,000 towards paving the community center parking lot (for a grand total of $935,000). I would like to thank all of the volunteers who help to get these projects off the ground. Congratulations on your monumental successes. It is by working together on projects like these, and others to come, that we can keep Manitoba moving forward and on the right track.
Investments in child care for Île-des-Chênes Families in Île-des Chênes and surrounding area are seeing the benefits of recent investments in childcare from the provincial NDP government. This is a great initiative for our community. The daycare will be serving residents of Île-des Chênes and area for years to come. I would like to thank the board members as well as my colleagues for all of the hard work that went into getting this project off the ground. The provincial NDP government has committed $200,000 in new capital funding for the Garderie Îledes-Chênes Daycare centre, located in Île-des-Chênes, for a new facility that will include 94 childcare spaces. This capital investment for Île-desChênes is part of 46 capital projects province-wide over the next two years. This includes 25 new centres and the revitalization of 21 others. The provincial NDP government is committed to building a quality childcare system in this province as part of our long-term childcare plan, Family Choices. Budget 2011 adds to this commitment by providing more spaces, including 2,100 funded spaces, a focus on infant spaces, and improved pensions for childcare workers. We know that affordable childcare is important to our community, and these investments show that our government has made this a priority. 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), and together we can continue to move La Vérendrye and Manitoba forward and on the right track.
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Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
June 2011
17
Grass-Free Landscaping a Viable Alternative Many homeowners equate a beautiful landscape to rolling acres of pristine lawn. But changes in the climate and widespread seasonal restrictions on water use each year could change the way people think about outfitting their yards.There are many reasons people choose to forgo grass and opt for different ornamental elements in their yards. Cost is one factor. While grass seed is relatively inexpensive, the upkeep, including mowing, fertilizing, reseeding, and watering, requires a significant investment of both time and money. Many homeowners choose to lay down sod to create a beautiful lawn, an expensive option for homeowners with vast landscapes. The environment is another reason homeowners look for grass alternatives. Grass requires a lot of upkeep, much of which is not environmentally friendly. For example, maintaining a pristine lawn requires the use of a gaspowered mower and oftentimes the application of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Seeking alternatives to grass can be friendly on both the wallet and the environment.
homeowner by chipping trimmed branches from trees in the yard. It helps lock water into landscaping beds, decreasing the need for frequent watering. * Water features: Think about installing a pond in the yard that can be bordered with stones and mulch. This will take up a good amount Grass-free alternatives, such as ground cover mixed with patio stones, can be an option for of space and can create a natural habitat for wildlife and even some low-maintenance pond fish. homeowners looking for less upkeep. * Concrete or patio stones: Although they’re not all-natural materials, patios can take up areas normally consumed by the lawn and create expansive outdoor entertaining areas. It will require an initial investment of the patio material, but once installed, patios don’t For those who are ready to say goodbye to grass, there are many require significant maintenance. Homeowners can offset the concrete alternatives. * Ground cover: Homeowners who still desire the look of green can jungle feel by placing plenty of potted plants and container foliage choose among different types of ground cover that will quickly fill in the around the perimeter. landscape. Clover, low-growing evergreen plants and ivy are some of * Decking: Another alternative to concrete and stones is a wood or composite material deck. Again, this structure will increase outdoor the more popular ground cover alternatives. living space and won’t require the level of routine maintenance needed * Rocks: Decorative rocks intermingled with native plants can add dimension and color to the yard. Once rocks are placed, there is little to keep a lush lawn. upkeep except for pulling the errant weeds. * Mulch: A less expensive alternative to rocks is mulch. Mulch is available in different colors and types and can even be created by a
Grass-Free Landscaping Alternatives
Did You Know? Highlighting, or up lighting, is a landscaping technique in which light from below is used to accent certain focal points in a landscape. In many instances, the light is used to illuminate a particularly impressive or unique plant. When highlighting, two or more spot light fixtures are placed at the base of a landscape component and pointed upward. While highlighting is most commonly used to illuminate plants, it can be used to draw attention to other focal points of a landscape as well, including sculptures or other garden structures. Light fixtures are aimed away from observers as a means to preventing glare, and oftentimes the fixtures themselves are camouflaged to maintain the natural beauty of the landscape.
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June 2011
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Real Soul-Mates Philippians 2:19-22 . . . 19) I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20) I have no one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare. 21) For everyone looks out for his own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22) But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. (NIV) Strange how things change as we age, we sometimes think we are so independent that we really do not need the friendship and help of others. However, we read that the apostle Paul needed his friend Timothy to cheer him up. “There is no one like Timothy who has a real interest in you,” he says. “All the others seem to be worrying about their own plans and not those of Jesus Christ.” The apostle Paul sounds like me or us. We all need companionship. Can you imagine what this world would be like without people who stand with us during the good times and hard times? Let us face it. We need friends to help us through life, friends who share the same interests we do. Friends like Pastor Norm Dyck (Executive Secretary, Church Engagement, Mennonite Church Canada) who helps me with this column each month. Before I release the column for circulation, he reads the column and gives his special insight on how I can improve what you eventually read. This has made an enormous difference in my mind-set. Pastor Norm has been helpful and generous with his time. I must admit I sometimes think I do not need his help, I think I can go it alone. However, it does not take very long for me to come to my senses and find that I am not as independent as I thought I was. Did you know that we are important to God? That is right! Actually, we are His greatest success story. He put into us His very likeness. It was for the salvation of all of us that Christ went to the cross and died, and it will be for us that He will someday return. As you likely do, I struggle as a Christian today with some questions. Questions such as, is my life being changed? Is my knowledge in the Lord Jesus Christ increasing? Am I more mature this year than I was last year? What about my thought-life, is it becoming more Christ-like? Faith is a forever journey of learning, growing and maturing. God has called us to live as practical down-to-earth Christians; a model of Christ. By that, I mean God invites us to live transformed lives that are a reflection of the very image of Christ. Then we can reflect our faith in sensible ways that will really have an impact on others. Timothy had a special relationship with Paul. They were, so to say, soul-mates. Their ideas were much the same, they had the same vision, and they were in step with each other’s ministry. They could rely on each other for advice and help. However, the most important part of their relationship was that Paul sought to impart his wisdom and understanding of faith to Timothy. Paul took a significant interest in Timothy’s life inviting, challenging and encouraging him to grow into a deeper faith relationship with Christ. Most of us have many good friends. We must admit that some are, however, closer than others. However, finding someone who we can share our confidential thoughts with is a bit uncommon today. Many people never consider finding a mentor or someone they can mentor along life’s journey. Timothy walked and talked the way Jesus did. He did not show off his stuff. He lived out what he had heard and seen from his mentor and friend, the apostle Paul. Paul and Timothy never tried to be a substitute for Jesus. Their messages were identical, that the love of Christ reaches out to us and waits for us to reach back in faith to Him. Their message was that Christ could change our hearts and transform our lives. Who else but Christ was able to remove not only our sins, our guilt, our shame and restore us to a new and redeemed life in Him? To God be the glory Would 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 bring honor to Your Name.” Amen
Tache Takes on Mosquitos The RM of Tache is giving notice to residents that they will be undertaking larvaciding in 2011. The municipality recently decided that they will do what they can to help control the mosquito population. This includes control of larvae in stagnant water within the boundaries of Landmark and Lorette. The program will extend to 3 km outside of the local urban district boundaries. After an inspection is conducted, the municipality will be using AquaBac and VectoBac (Bacillus thuringiensis var. isaelensis—Bti) for the application. Projected days of application will be from June until August. The duration and extent of the project will depend on the weather and insect population.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
June 2011
19
St. Malo Tin Cup Champs
The St. Malo Alouettes defeated the St. Malo Pirates to win the Tin Cup 2010-2011 championship. The winning overtime goal was scored by Real Lambert and assisted by Dave Collette. The Alouettes, coached by Jean Maynard, took the series three games to one. The non-contact league has been in existence since 1968. Front row, l-r: Justin Maynard, Andre Mellor, Manager Rich Pilotte, Ralph Collette. Second row, l-r: Marcel Beaudoin, Coach Jean Maynard, Russ Hebert, Jean-Guy Gosselin, Dave Collette, Dave Gentes, Derek Heppner, MVP Russ Beaudette, Real Lambert, Darrell Dubois, Ray Maynard and Chris Gunder-son. Missing: Rick Pilotte and Gaby Gosselin.
Trees Hit the Soil
Three generations of the Scouting movement help plant over 300 trees at the Lorette Community Complex in Lorette with 1st Lorette Scouts. The Scoutrees program is a Canada-wide environmental program designed to give all members of Scouts Canada the opportunity to demonstrate, through the planting of trees, their concern for the environment. Cal Richardson (Steinbach), his son Jay (Ile des Chenes) and grandson Logan (Ile des Chenes) have been involved in the Scouting movement for a combined total of over 20 years.
New Tanker for La Broquerie The RM of La Broquerie fire department will soon have a newer water tanker unit. Recently council recently agreed to
purchase a 2005 International 4700 at a cost of $187,000 from Grunthal Fire and Safety. The purchase was made in response to a formal request made by the department back in January. The La Broquerie fire department asked council to consider either upgrading or replacing their current water truck, which is a converted mail truck that is over 24 years old.
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June 2011
More Than Just News!
Make Your Backyard Barbecue as Safe as it is Fun Few summer traditions are as beloved as the backyard barbecue. Typically laid back get-togethers with family and friends, backyard barbecues are synonymous with warm weather and the relaxed atmosphere that such weather promotes. But even the best backyard barbecue comes with some level of risk. Cooking over an open flame will never be risk-free, but there are steps barbecue enthusiasts can take to make their next summer soiree that much safer. * Check for leaks. Due to their ease of use and convenience, propane grills have grown in popularity over the years. However, proponents of propane grills should inspect the propane tank as well as its hoses for leaks, cracks and corrosion. Any of those problems has the potential to be very dangerous, so address any issues before guests arrive. If guests are on their way already, simply visit the local hardware store and purchase a new tank or replace the damaged one. If the hoses are damaged, buy a charcoal grill to fill-in for the propane grill during the party. Charcoal grills are much less expensive than propane grills, and it might be a good idea for households that frequently host guests during grilling season to have a backup grill anyway. * Dress in tighter clothing. The party’s grillmaster should not wear loose clothing. Loose-fitting clothing, particularly long sleeves, can dip into the grill and potentially catch on fire. Avoid this risk by wearing tighter clothing that doesn’t hang off the body. * Be certain all briquettes are extinguished. For those who prefer a charcoal grill, once the cooking has been completed be careful to extinguish all briquettes. If briquettes are discarded before they are full extinguished, they could easily spark a fire. Many a garbage can, and considerably more, has been lost to briquettes that were discarded before they were fully extinguished. As a safety measure, pour water over briquettes and never discard any briquettes that are still hot. * Never move the grill indoors. If an unexpected summer rain storm arrives on the night of the party, the grill should stay outside while the guests move indoors. A grill, whether it’s propane or charcoal, should never be used indoors because of the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. *K eep kids and pets clear Keep clear.. It’s easy for kids and pets to suffer burns when around the grill. Kids might not be tall enough to see what’s on the grill and, to make up for that, will grab the grill with their bare hands and push themselves
up. This is almost certain to lead to burns. Pets don’t know any better and are likely to get burned or even tip the grill over if they’re allowed near it. * Don ’t be liberal with the lighter fluid. When Don’t grilling on a charcoal grill, it’s not always easy to get the fire started. As a result, many people look to lighter fluid to help speed the process along. While this can work, it’s important to note that not much lighter fluid is necessary, and fluid should never be applied after the coals have lit.
Grilling over an open flame is a popular warm weather tradition, but one that also carries risks.
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Dawson Trail Dispatch
More Than Just News!
Block Party: An Ideal Way to Celebrate Warm-Weather The warm-weather season is often awash with opportunities to host parties and other celebrations. The months of June, July and August are commonly a prime time for birthday parties, graduations, celebrations of Canada Day and general social occasions among friends and neighbors. A block or neighborhood party can be a distinctive way to have a good time and share celebrations on a group level. Who hasn’t walked or driven by a neighborhood and felt a tinge of envy when he or she came across a block party in full swing? Laughing neighbors spilled out onto front lawns, children enjoying the freedom of prancing in the street, barbecues smoking and coolers overflowing with ice and drinks are just some of the elements to assail the senses. There’s bound to be a deejay or some amusement-type rides to complete the picture, too. Chances are the celebrations continue into the evening hours. Although a block or street party may seem like it can simply be thrown together with a few conversations among neighbors, there is actually a good deal of planning that should go into executing a neighborhood event.
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Online Auction Huge Success
The numbers are in and the Ste. Anne Hospital Foundation is pleased with the success of their recent online auction. The online auction, which took place in April, was held to raise money towards the expansion of the emergency room at the Ste. Anne Hospital. set aside for treats, such as hiring an Colleen Rivard, with the Ste. Anne Hospital Foundation, is thrilled with Getting Started ice cream truck to stop by and give the success of this year’s online auction. At the start, a committee or group out treats for a set amount of time. “Last year was our first auction and we cleared $9,176 which we felt was leader should be put in charge of * Entertainment: Chances are a great success being it was our first,” explained Rivard. “This year, over organizing the event. This is often the block party attendants will want to be $30,000 was raised for the Ste. Anne Hospital construction project, person on the street that is friendly entertained. There should be activities including the operating room development and patient lounge.” with the most people and has a for both adults and children. Party The Ste. Anne Hospital Foundation is currently committed to raise money rapport that enables him or her to rental businesses can be contacted for needed for the requested 10 percent community contribution towards the easily converse with the neighbors rides, moonbounce inflatables, new surgical suite and recovery area to be housed in a new wing. and gauge their feelings about a block clowns or magicians, and carnivalThe total cost for the project is estimated at $15 million and the foundation party and what date would work best. inspired games. A deejay or band can has committed to fundraising $1.5 million. The Town of Ste. Anne, the Very often neighbors will be on board be hired for musical entertainment. If surrounding municipalities and the private sector have been invited to with a party idea. It’s safe to expect budgets don’t allow for that, put one contribute generously to the project. opposition from a few. These people person in charge of music and have a Once the surgical suite is complete, the Ste. Anne Hospital will be able to are under no obligation to participate playlist of songs available. If offer full time operating services and alleviate some of the pressure on and can be urged to spend the day performers will be available, one Bethesda Hospital’s surgical department. elsewhere if a block party would seem neighbor will have to donate an intrusive. electrical hook-up so that amplifiers The next step is to find out if the and instruments can be plugged in. town or city has any ordinances * Accessories: It’s often the little regarding neighborhood parties or if details that can make block parties Once again, the Seine River School Division has honored several students a permit needs to be granted. fun. Party supply stores carry a host of with citizenship awards. Because hosting a block party often items that can coordinate with a These awards are given to a select few students from throughout the means closing the street to traffic, it’s theme. Online retailers may offer division. Three students were named, all of which are directly within our adviseable to visit the town hall and some better deals on bulk items that region. find out about the legality of such an can be used, such as glow sticks or The recipients of the 2011 Seine River School Division Student Citizenship event and the guidelines that must be necklaces. Sparklers (if they’re legal), Awards recipients include Stephan Bell from Arborgate School in La followed. This may include what time light-up bands or hats and items of Broquerie in the Early Year’s level. the “noise” should cease. Once this sort can illuminate the evening At the junior high level, the Middle Years award was given to Megan approval has been granted, the while revelers are enjoying Gauthier from the Dawson Trail School in Lorette. The senior level award creative ideas can start flowing. themselves. went to the entire student council at the Lorette Collegiate. Party Planning * Advertising: Invitations or The Seine River School Division has also awarded the first set of awards Volunteers will be needed to handle postings around the neighborhood in honor of former school board trustee Sharon Marshall who passed the undertaking that is a block party. are a must to spread word of the away in November. As a legacy, the board established the Sharon Marshall Funds also will have to be allocated event. Volunteers can solicit local for the event. Some towns have grants businesses to donate an item for free Award for the award which went to seven students in the division. Recipients include Marissa Dheily from La Barriere Crossings School; available for social events, but very advertising as well. The more people, Claire Huberdeau from Ecole St. Adolphe School; Jenny Jerke from Ste. often members of the community the merrier the event will likely be. Anne Elementary School; Alexis Johnson from St. Norbert Collegiate, Riley hosting the party simply donate an Neighbors should be encouraged to Perreault from Lorette Collegiate, Tayler Blask and Marie Wrede from Ste. agreed on amount of money to be put invite family members and friends to Anne Collegiate. toward the festivities. In addition to the event. money, there are a few other areas of Wrap Up consideration. Each neighbor should be in charge * Food: Resources can be combined of cleaning up his or her property, as to have food catered or to purchase well as the area of the street items that will be cooked in bulk and Rain or shine, pet owners and animal lovers alike are invited to participate immediately in front of his or her enjoyed by all. However, it is often in the second annual Paws in the Park. easier for each individual household home. If budget allows, a sanitation The one day event, which is the biggest fundraiser for the Steinbach service can be hired to sweep the to be in charge of their meal for the Humane Society, is taking place on June 4 at AD Penner Park in Steinbach. street afterward. The party organizer day. Barbecue fare is some of the Registration for the five-kilometre walk starts at 1:30 with registration and should be sure to send around an simplest food to feed a crowd, and the actual walk runs from 2 pm until 5 pm. The day will conclude with a itemized list of what was purchased backyard grills can be moved to the fundraising barbeque supper. and how the donated money was street with grill masters donning According to Lisa Rogal, spokesperson for the Steinbach Humane spent to promote good will among aprons and spatulas. Society, the event is expected to help the organization immensely. the neighbors. If there are funds left * Refreshments: Again, “Our first annual Paws on the Path walkathon and Pets in the Park event over, these can be allocated to next homeowners may want to have their was a huge success,” stated Rogal. “We raised $3,558 which went towards year’s event if it was a success. Thank paying vet bills for the animals we take in and towards our building fund.” own coolers filled with soft drinks. you notes to volunteers and donors Though alcoholic beverages are The Steinbach Humane Society has been struggling to stay alive but commonly found at social events, they can be sent out as well. still hopes to purchase a piece of property to build a permanent home. A neighborhood block party is a shouldn’t be the cornerstone of the Until that is done, animals taken in by the organization are fostered out to unique celebration idea that fits well celebration. All it takes is one temporary homes until they are adopted. inebriated individual who gets out of with the warm-weather season when Rogal stresses that a new building would be of great benefit, especially people are out and about. Organizing during times like spring and summer. Anyone wishing to volunteer as a hand for law enforcement to close down the party. A budget can also be the event can help ensure it is one to pet foster family can contact that facility at 326-7299 and leave a message. remember.
Students Honored in Seine River
Pet Walk Planned
Charges Dropped in Windmill Fire Charges have been dropped against one of the men accused of setting the fire that destroyed the historic windmill at the Mennonite Heritage Village. A year ago, Steinbach RCMP finally laid charges against two men in relation to the October 2000 blaze that destroyed the landmark windmill. Both men were charged with one count of arson and released with the promise to appear. In a recent court appearance, a charge of arson against David Wiebe of Winnipeg was dropped. The decision to drop the charges came after coaccused Kynan Patram of Mitchell pled guilty to the same charges. He will be sentenced in Steinbach court on June 23. The charge stemmed from an October 22, 2000 blaze, which destroyed the landmark windmill in Steinbach’s Mennonite Heritage Village Museum. At the time, RCMP investigated the fire and deemed it arson. The value of the loss and replacement of the windmill was estimated at about $600,000. Both men were suspects from the start of the investigation but it took ten years before Steinbach RCMP were able to gather enough evidence to lay formal charges against the duo.
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June 2011
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
Gardenton to Host Mud Bog and Derby 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, pay us a visit, and consider participating in some of our programs. For more information, call the center 320-4600.
By Marianne Curtis On the first weekend of June the community of Gardenton is expected to grow by a few hundred people when this year’s annual mud bog and demolition derby takes place. On June 4, the Gardenton Demolition Derby and Quad Mud Bog will take place at the back of the museum grounds. The annual oneday event draws spectators from both sides of the border for an exciting afternoon full of big car demolition derbies, quad mud bog and obstacle course. Organizer Sheila Arseny is looking forward to another successful event that will take place on the grounds of the Ukrainian Museum and Village Society, otherwise known as Gardenton Park. Money raised from the event is used to support the community’s only park. “It is a very fun day and it is always a great show,” stated Arseny. “The event is held for fun, a few trophies and of course, bragging rights.” New this year is “truck football” where trucks will be used aggressively and defensively to push a football, or in this case, a car across a goal line. The derby has been taking place since 2004 and Arseny has been involved with organizing it since 2006.
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 is $25. Bring your own towel. Call the 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 the 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. Last year, hundreds of people came out to watch drivers like this one take on the mud and dust during the Gardenton Mudbog and Derby. Photo by Marianne Curtis
“My husband is from Gardenton and his brother was into demolition derbies so they both decided that it would be fun bringing such an event to their hometown,” explained Arseny. “There are not many demolition derbies around anymore and people love to come out for them when there is one.” This year ’s event is expected to draw participants and visitors from communities throughout the region, including Ste. Anne, Zhoda, Sundown, Tolstoi, Grunthal, and Lorette along with Selkirk and Winnipeg. The event starts at 1 pm and tickets are $10 each, available at the gate.
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 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Fitness Class 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 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 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 $1.00. There are lessons with Alex Cupples on Wednesdays 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 Centre Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., call 320-4600, or go to www.steinbach55plus.com.
RCMP Looking for Missing Youth Steinbach RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a 14-year-old female youth. Shianne Racquel Meeches of Steinbach left a friend’s residence for Winnipeg on the afternoon of Thursday, May 19. She was in the company of a female adult acquaintance. She has not been heard from since. It is believed that she is living with friends. Police have learned that Meeches may have been seen in the North End of Winnipeg within the last week. Meeches was last seen wearing black shoes, black yoga pants and a black hoodie with a white shirt beneath. She is native in appearance, 5 feet 7 inches tall, and has a slender build with black hair and brown eyes. A photo of Meeches is attached. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP at 326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or www.manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).
Four on four Street Hockey Tournament The Niverville Old Tyme Country Fair and Clipper Ice Sports are pleased to announce their 1st Annual “Take It To The Street” 4X4 Hockey Tournament! Visit the Rec & Wellness website at www.NivervilleActiveLiving.com for more details!
Summer Camps in Niverville A list of 2011 Summer camps, along with a registration form, has been posted on the Rec and Wellness website www.NivervilleActiveLiving.com. Information about an exciting youth business camp organized by Community Futures Triple R Corporation and CDEM is also included online.
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch
On May 22 at approximately 9 am, Steinbach RCMP received a complaint of mischief to a vehicle situated in an underground parking lot at 388 - 1st Street in Steinbach. Upon arriving police discovered that eight more vehicles had been damaged or broken into. To date there are no suspects and police continue to investigate. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Steinbach RCMP at 326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or www.manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).
By Marianne Curtis
Daytime Firefighters Wanted
Keanan Byggdin cuts the cake at the opening of the Niverville Youth Employment center.
Get Green Niverville! It’s time to roll up your sleeves, have some fun and welcome Spring to Niverville with a community clean up at Hespeler Park! Niverville residents are invited to join members of the Recreation and Wellness Commission for the first annual “Get Green Niverville!” on Saturday, June 4th from 10 am - 2 pm. Bring down your gardening gloves and tools, or just a pair of gloves and help clean up, “green” up and add some color to Hespeler Park. At 1 pm there will be an informational session and a draw for a prize from Sheldon Falk (Falk Nurseries). If you have any questions, please contact Donna at 3884600 ext 110 or by email at Donna@whereyoubelong.ca.
The Town of Ste. Anne fire department has put out a call for men or women who are available to volunteer as daytime firefighters. Fire chief Ken Dayment says that his department is looking for suitable individuals, particularly those available during the daytime, who are willing to volunteer with the fire department. “Applicants must be able to travel to the local fire station within seven minutes Emergency medical services staff in Vita will soon have a more comfortable place to stay while waiting for calls thanks of being paged,” stated Dayment. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and possess a good standard of to a recent provincial announcement. During Emergency Medical Services Week, the province physical fitness. Training is provided. announced an increase in funding for various emergency Those interested in helping out can contact the town of Ste. Anne office. medical services centers. Included in the announcement is the addition of a crew quarters to the Vita and District Health Center. When on call, rural ambulance A tornado touched down near St. Adolphe on May 28. personnel are expected remain within a Environment Canada said the short-lived tornado was observed at 5:30 pm. certain distance of the facility to ensure Winnipeg and much of southern Manitoba were under a tornado watch Saturday, speedy response in the event of an and at least three funnel clouds were reported including one south of Steinbach. emergency. However, the travel distance The watch was issued Saturday morning and remained in effect until the evening. of the Vita facility from the region’s other Mark Gerlyand, Environment Canada meteorologist, said pea-sized hail was three facilities in Steinbach, Ste. Anne reported in various areas in the southeast. and St. Pierre can make it challenging for “There were quite a few phone calls we received about funnel clouds ... from staff due to the commute and lack of a different locations,” he said. place to stay. The combination of a weak low-pressure system moving across southern Additional financial support is also Manitoba, daytime heating and moist unstable air mass produced favourable being provided for inter-facility conditions for the development of funnel clouds, Environment Canada said. transports between all four of South Eastman Health’s hospitals and to being associated with such a fantastic Winnipeg for more efficient coordination inter-facility ambulance portfolio of quality products.” says of Gettis. “I look forward to continuing transportation. the great Bothwell tradition.”
Vita EMS Gets Expansion
Tornado Touches Down Near St. Adolphe
Bothwell Cheese Hires New Sales Manager
Bothwell Cheese has appointed Steven Gettis as the company’s Sales Manager. Steven’s focus is to initiate, direct, plan, develop, coordinate and execute Bothwell’s sales and marketing activities, maximize customer loyalty, increase sales and overall corporate profitability. Steven has over 15 years of experience in the food industry, and sales and marketing development. His previous employment includes Customer Manager at Kraft Canada, and Product Representative at Parmalat Canada. “We’re very pleased Steven has joined the company in this, our 75th year in business.” says President & CEO Ivan Balenovic. “Steven will play a key role in building on Bothwell’s reputation and growing our markets across Canada.” “I am proud to be part of the Bothwell family as well as genuinely excited about
Kids Wanted for Local Fishing League The Manitoba Recreational Fishing league is looking for energetic volunteers in Niverville who enjoy fishing, the great outdoors and working with kids. The Manitoba Recreational Fishing League is an annual program that has been running for over 10 years in participating communities across the province. It is geared towards youth aged 9 to 15. Katherine Thiesenhausen, Coordinator of the Manitoba Recreational Fishing League, hopes that the group can establish a league in Niverville. “The goal is to introduce kids to recreational fishing through an organized league similar to hockey, baseball or other
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Mischief to Vehicles in Underground Parking Lot
Niverville Job Center Open for the Season Students on the west side of the region are being encouraged to check out the youth job center that recently opened in Niverville for the summer. Keanan Byggdin is the new office manager of the Manitoba Youth Job Center (MYJC) in Niverville. “Through us students have access to any job that they might be able to do, even some they might not think of,” explained Byggdin. “I’ve gone to the seniors of the community and there is a need for kids to do things like yard work and even vacuuming.” The program is sponsored by Manitoba Education, Citizenship, and Youth and is in partnership with the Niverville Town office. It is designed to help students and youth aged 12 to 29 with their employment needs, as well as assisting employers fill vacant positions. Byggdin invites employers of all types – business, household, farm and construction – to take advantage of the free services the Centre provides. “Only the most qualified candidates are referred, and the employer always has the final hiring decision,” added Byggdin. “We encourage students and youth over the age of 12 to register with our office.” On average, about 75 students use the service each summer, and many continued their jobs into the following year. As well, each year at least 50 employers are looking to fill numerous positions, including servers, cashiers, child caretakers, and mechanics. The MYJC also runs the Odd Job Squad, which hosts summer events such as barbeques, strawberry picking, perogy sales, labor lotteries and car washes that are held by the youth with the office manager’s supervision. This gives youth under the age of 16 a chance to make money and gain work experience. The Niverville Manitoba Youth Job Center offers services to the communities of Glenlea, Grande Pointe, Île-des-Chênes, Landmark, Lorette, New Bothwell, Niverville, and St. Adolphe. The MYJC in Niverville operates out of the Town of Niverville office and is open daily from 9-5.
June 2011
recreational activities,” explained Thiesenhausen. The rules are designed to encourage participation by young anglers at all skill levels. Teams from throughout the province compete while learning about the fisheries and the environment. Each team consists of six to eight kids and two adult coaches. They meet once a week for six weeks for 2-hour sessions that include actual fishing. The Manitoba Recreational Fishing league is organized by the Manitoba Wildlife Federation. For more information, please contact Manitoba Wildlife Federation at 633-5967 or by email at mrfl@shaw.ca.
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June 2011
More Than Just News!
Dawson Trail Dispatch