H2O Guide 2007

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2 H2O Summer 2007

6 ON MAP, PAGE 17

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David Humniski & Jill Arnason

Kathy Marks

Bev Stevens

John Wishnowski

Cyndi Johnson

Chris Neufeld

Lisa McLean

Darlene Hargreaves

daretodream@mts.net

kmarks4@mts.net

stevensb@mts.net

iwish@interlake.mb.ca

alyce@mts.net

chrisneufeld@mts.net

lmclean@mts.net

ber234@mts.net

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H2O Summer 2007 3

H2O Guide now on the WEB! ast year we celebrated the re ceipt of the Travel Manitoba Tourism Media Award, and this year is no less exciting, as we proudly announce the launch

of

our

new

website

at

www.h2oguide.ca Not sure where to go, what to have for supper, or what exciting event to take in? Let H2O be your navigator!

The maps you have come to depend on in the H2O Guide are now available on-line. Hover over a location dot and find all the contact information for a particular business or service, then click on the live links which will take you directly to a specific advertiser’s website.

A categorized list of advertisers, as well as event listings will also be available on-line so you should have no trouble finding that which you seek. A section for feature stories and an archive of past stories is currently being pieced together, and we thank you for your patience as we continue to develop these areas of the website. For fun, visit the photo gallery of growing images featuring the beauty of the Interlake.

Gimli is an all-season community,

there’s more

and we are proud to now be able to

. . .

marinas [13] events [18, 19] Town of Winnipeg Beach map [16] R.M. of Gimli map [17] Town of Gimli map [20, 21] Willow Creek padding map [23] restaurants [26, 27] shopping [28, 29] accommodations [30, 31, 32] nite life [33]

bring H2O to you, all year round.

I wish to extend heartfelt thanks to Norman

Shewchuk

and

Chris

Gauthier of Elektrus Communications Technology Company for their dedication, professionalism and sincere interest in making this challenging website project the best it can be.

The H20 Gimli & Beaches Adventure Guide is published annually by Rune Stone Publications, Inc. Mailing Address: Box 1320, Gimli, MB, R0C 1BO. Telephone (204) 642-7424. Fax (204) 642-7855. E-mail: h2oguide@mts.net Website: www.h2oguide.ca Publisher and Editor: Linda M. Goodman.

Advertising: Kerri Taverner. Feature contributing writers: Roger Newman, David Fuller, Andy Blicq, Ken Porteous, Jan Keryluk, Catherine Strong, Heather Hinam, Holly Bochukra, Leo Sawicki, Alex Tretiak, Linda Goodman.

Additional articles written by: Kathryn McBurney. Editing: Rune Stone Publications, Inc. Printing: Transcontinental LGM Graphics, 737 Moray St., Winnipeg. Printed on recycled newsprint. H20 Gimli & Beaches Adventure Guide is a trademark of Rune Stone Publications Inc. All rights reserved.

Copyright 2007. No part of this magazine, including ads, articles or photos may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission.

Rune Stone Publications, Inc. (204) 642-7424 Linda Goodman, Publisher h2oguide@mts.net

4 H2O Summer 2007

Thanks also to Kerri Taverner, my parents and my husband, Eric, for all their support and love.

www.h2oguide.ca

H2O Summer 2007 5

by Catherine Strong

I

t’s probably the best-kept secret in Manitoba. From one block away, you wouldn’t know it was there unless it was a stormy day in the late fall, when the roar of breakers on the beach would give it away.

Lake Winnipeg, the Forgotten Great Lake, our vast Prairie Ocean, is modest and unassuming. It does not proclaim itself, nor advertise its presence, except perhaps for tantalizing glimpses through the trees at a lane’s-end, or between cottages, as you travel north on Highway Number Nine. Not until you are actually in Gimli and turning on to Centre Street do you see the flat silver-grey vista of the tenth largest freshwater lake in the world.

You progress to the harbour and the beach, and then you suddenly get it––here before you lies one of the greatest bodies of water in the world, and you have approached it all unknowing. It’s breathtaking in its scope and majesty, and for those who have never before seen a great lake, it is truly awe-inspiring.

Locals, of course, see it rather differently. It is a valuable resource, a place to visit, a constant companion, and the source of a microclimate that produces later springs and later winters than the rest of the province because of the modifying effects of such a large body of water.

Tourists come to rest on the golden sandy beaches, to watch the sunrise over tasty breakfasts in waterfront restaurants, to dangle languorous feet in the rippling The Namao’s presence in the Gimli water from the edges of docks and jetHarbour is a visual reminder that ties, to water ski or swim or jet-ski, or fish notLake Winnipeg’s health is being taken seriously. As individuals, too-intently from the main pier. Visitors will our choices can, and do, stay to shop in the eclectic variety of stores, make a difference. and eat Icelandic specialties in delightful cafes and bakeries. Over all you will find the traditional Gimli welcome, the smell of great coffee brewing, and the all-pervading presence of the Lake.

Relatively shallow, Lake Winnipeg is a remnant of prehistoric Lake Agassiz, occupying a natural basin with an enormous watershed. With an area of 24,514 square kilometers, Lake Winnipeg drains approximately one million square kilometers, including four Canadian provinces and four U.S. States.

The commercial fishing industry on Lake Winnipeg is valued at $20 Million dollars annually. In parts of the Unites States, the walleye (Pickerel) caught in Lake Winnipeg is more in demand in fine restaurants than is steak; and a majority of the fish caught here is exported to far-flung destinations.

Lake Winnipeg supports a tourism and recreation industry that generates more than $100 Million annually. It is a huge and important natural resource, and one that is presently under ecological threat.

Algal blooms in recent summers have spoken clearly to scientists of a phenomenon known as eutrophication – the overloading of the lake waters with nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous. The danger to the delicate ecosystem of the lake, on which so many people depend, is very real.

One of the hazards to water quality in Lake Winnipeg is human presence and activity throughout its watershed. Nitrogen and phosphorous have many sources,

6

H2O Summer 2007

including municipal sewage, septic fields, industrial effluent, and agricultural sources such as fertilizers and livestock manure.

Steps are being taken to address the all important issue of declining water quality. The establishment of the Lake Winnipeg Research Consortium and the Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board, as well as the various stakeholder groups collaborating in tackling this problem, indicate that Government and citizens alike are serious in seeking to halt the decline in water quality, and to preserve this huge natural resource for future generations.

Gimli as a fishing harbour, Gimli as a tourist destination, Gimli as a growing and vibrant community. With over half its summertime population consisting of cottage-owners, Gimli still has a year-round population of 5,797 permanent residents. This figure has increased by over 12% over the last five years, while the population increase for all of Manitoba has been 2.6%. Much of this is accounted for by relocation from other communities. Gimli is known as one of the fifty best places in Canada to live and is also known as a place with a rich history, one that preserves its heritage while simultaneously looking to the future. It is also known as an environmentally responsible community.

All of this hinges on Lake Winnipeg – the fishery, the tourism, the attraction of more families to work and play here. Centuries of human settlement can be documented on these shores. Old Lake Agassiz left its treasures to be found by those who care to look––find any old beach ridge to the north-west of the town site and dig a hole.

You may be surprised to The delicately balanced eco-system of Lake Winnipeg can be seen in find hundreds this fresh summer tidal pool on the west shore. upon hundreds of shells. You may find flint tools, arrowheads, spearheads and sharpening stones from ancient communities that lived beside, and fished in that prehistoric lake, as dependent in their time upon the bounty of its waters as we are now, in our own time, upon our own Prairie Ocean.

For more information on environmental issues related to Lake Winnipeg, green products available, and how you can help make a difference, please contact one of the following: Bill Barlow, Chair, Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board, Box 305, Gimli, MB, R0C 1B0 - phone (204) 642-4899, email: barlow@rmgimli.com - or, Save Our Lake (SOUL) at saveourlake@mts.net -or, Lake Winnipeg Foundation Inc., Box 376, Matlock, MB. R0C 2B0

Tranquility Serenity Peace

Best described as Tranquility, Serenity and Peace, this one hundred year old stacked-wall construction house, the “Sanctuary of Grace”, restored as a legacy, now serves as an ecumenical education centre and spiritual retreat.

This unique home, formerly the Archbishop’s cottage, was restored in 2004 by a group of volunteers.

The Sanctuary of Grace features an exhibit of the ancient Byzantine tradition of iconography. The word iconography literally means "image writing", referring here to the painting of icons in the Byzantine and Orthodox tradition.

Bringing this art to life, Sister Carmela Lukey has been teaching iconography in Winnipeg for 10 years, immersing her students in practical iconography techniques and also the theological and physiological aspects of this ancient

tradition. As a student of Sister Lukey, Ted Rebenchuk’s desire to learn the disciplines of hand, mind and heart, lead him to “the Sanctuary of Grace”, where this June he will realize his dream of bringing the beauty of this ancient tradition to the public through the WAVE Artists Studio Tour.

Together with the Sanctuary, on the shores of Lake Winnipeg, sits the St. Volodymyr Chapel. This unique and interesting architectural heritage also houses a display of iconography.

Take the time to visit the quiet and solitude of this retreat house and chapel, just north of Gimli in Ukrainian Park, for a pleasant and unexpected surprise.

For more information, please contact Diane 667-5565, dianehuselak@mts.net; Marilyn at 338-8534; or Ted at 642-1338.

The “Sanctuary of Grace” at Ukrainian Park is one hundred years old and is now a spiritual retreat and education centre. You can visit the Sanctuary and the lovely St. Volodymyr Chapel (left) in the woods during the Wave Tour.

R.M. of Gimli Office Gimli, MB. R0C 1B0

62 - 2nd Avenue 204-642-6650

Box 1246

M ON MAP, PAGE 21

H2O Summer 2007 7

hether it’s invisible Icelandic huldufólk or ephemeral restaurateurs, Winnipeg artist Karen Johannsson has a talent for bringing the unseen to life.

Born in Iceland, Karen immigrated to Canada with her family when she was 11. The family settled in Winnipeg. At that time, she says, Canada “was not a mosaic, it was a melting pot.” She shared classes in school with Germans and Italians, even some Argentines.

She says the first year was difficult, and she alternated between shedding and reclaiming her use of the Icelandic language.

She mastered English and retained her mother tongue, speaking both without a foreign accent. As an adult, she studied Icelandic at the University of Manitoba with Haraldur Bessason, where she also did her Fine Arts degree.

Karen is known for her work in batik, but ironically it was not something she studied as part of her degree. It was on her third trip back to Iceland that she became interested in the medium, when she was working in Reykjavík as a graphic artist for what was at that time Iceland’s main television broadcaster.

“I bought a book in Reykjavík about batik, but I couldn’t find any tools,” says Karen. “So the fellow who was in charge of the prop department at the TV station made a tool for me.” She had a cup belonging to a friend who used to make chocolate, and the props master soldered it onto a handle. “He made two tools [for

me], and those were the tools I used to learn batik.”

The tool used to put wax on fabric is called a tajanting; the wax then resists dye applied to the fabric and allows the artist to apply colours in succession. “It’s the same principle as with dyeing Ukrainian Easter eggs,” she says.

Colours stream through the batiks like stained glass. “I often make them specifically for certain-sized windows,” she says. “You know how some of these old houses are — you’re right next to the neighbours and you don’t want to cover up completely, but you don’t want to have them look in on you!”

She also produces decorative batik pillows — doublesided and quilted, they are more like fabric sculptures — and handmade portrait dolls.

For inspiration, she draws

heavily from Norse mythology and Icelandic folklore. Among her work are depictions of Thor’s drinking contest with the giants; the apples of Idunn, which enable the gods to stay young; and Ódin consulting with his ravens, who bring him news from across the world.

She has also created a series based on Iceland’s Christmas folklore.

Instead of Santa Claus arriving on his sleigh, Icelandic children have for centuries awaited the arrival of thirteen mischievous troll-children, who play pranks on Icelandic families on the twelve days before Christmas and the twelve days afterwards. Far more troublesome than these trolls — called the Jólasveinar in Icelandic — is their mother, the cantankerous troll-woman Grila.

What is it about these characters and their stories that interests her? “That’s my background; those are the early stories that I heard and read,” she says. “I’ve always had a fascination for mythology and I love the old folktales. The fact that Christmas is cele-

8 H2O Summer 2007

brated with these naughty little creatures that come down from the mountains — it’s a nice contrast!”

She also enjoys the fact that some Icelanders will not mow parts of their lawn for fear of disturbing the huldufólk, “the hidden people.”

“My mother, she was always talking about them. And it’s so handy — when you lose something, you didn’t forget it, the huldufólk took it.”

Karen notes also that Norse gods can die; they are not immortal like the gods in other mythologies.

“Europe was becoming Christian, and continental Europe long before Iceland,” she says. “And that’s what created the whole Ragnarök [the

“fate of the gods”], I think; the knowledge that the gods are going.

They are not forever.”

Her show last year, “Dreams and Memories,” presented works in

that vein at the Dr. Paul H. T. Thorlakson Gallery in the University of Manitoba’s Icelandic Collection.

Storyteller Sue Proctor regaled visitors with the tales behind the images.

Karen’s work is also well-known in Gimli. Her batiks are available at Koma

Heim Trading (the name means “come home” in Icelandic), as well as Mermaid’s Kiss, for which Karen creates mermaid batiks exclusively.

She has also displayed her work during Íslendingadagurinn, the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba. Last year she had her display on the harbourfront until stormy weather forced her inside; this year she will be at the Gimli Park Pavilion.

Karen does all her work out of

Lipton Street Studio, a large house on the corner of Lipton and Westminster in Winnipeg’s Wolseley neighbourhood. It’s a building she has had a long association with.

Karen and her life partner Shanker Singh took over the business of the Lipton Luncheon Confectionary in 1977, renaming it “Mrs. Lipton’s Restaurant.”

Shanker bought the building in 1980 and they made ongoing improvements until 1993, when the restaurant closed.

“It was never a vegetarian restaurant, but the vegetarian part of the menu dominated almost from the start,” Karen says. Mrs. Lipton’s took a “whole food” approach from the beginning — everything was made on location from scratch.

“At that time I had no idea what I was getting into — what kind of work that would involve!” she says with a laugh.

17 ON MAP, PAGE 20

Karen Johannsson can be reached at Lipton Street Studio at 162 Lipton Street in Winnipeg. Her phone number is (204) 775-7096. You will be able to view her artwork, but we’re not so sure about getting a veggie burger.

19 ON MAP, PAGE 20

H2O Summer 2007 9

by Roger Newman etty Jane Jackson and an enthusiastic group of volunteers have introduced a whole new concept of cottaging in the Village of Dunnottar, 20 kilometers south of Gimli.

Instead of worshipping the sun and sand, Jackson and her friends work each summer on a variety of projects that have significantly enhanced the arts and cultural life of Dunnottar, a municipality of 1,500-plus encompassing the Lake Winnipeg beach communities of Matlock, Whytewold and Ponemah.

Jackson, her husband Bruce Smith, and their volunteer troop have converted a former grocery store into an arts centre, formed the Western Beaches Historical Society and refurbished the old Matlock CPR station to serve as a museum for the community.

“We're just a bunch of crazy people who don't know how to lie on the beach,” Jackson says in explaining the frenetic non-stop volunteer work.

The parade has developed into one of the biggest extravaganzas in the East Interlake since the first edition when Jackson and three other neighbours with convertibles drove around Ponemah tooting their horns in celebration of the nation's birthday. A few floats and costumes were added the second year to a procession that has become progressively longer each summer. With the ninth annual parade looming at 11 a.m. this July 1, as many as 200 to 300 marchers and float riders may participate in the event which circles Ponemah and ends

10 H2O Summer 2007

with hot dogs, birthday cake, horseshoes and bocci at Central Ave. and Railway St. The parade's success has been noted by Travel Manitoba officials and rated a mention in the national “Our Canada” magazine. Jackson, the chief costume designer, believes it has thrived because it is non-commercial. Dunnottar residents dress up as Queen Elizabeth or court jesters instead of bringing their septic or roto-rooter trucks.

Betty Jane Jackson in front of the Ponemah Beach Central Station. Now the local arts centre, it is also a gathering place for community potluck suppers and get-togethers. The building has slowly evolved to become Ponemah’s epicentre. Photo below: an antique ‘Velocipede’. Photos courtesy of Roger Newman and Betty Jane Jackson.

The only drawback is that the parade attracts a relatively small crowd because almost everybody in Dunnottar is in it. Hopefully, the larger world will discover it this year because the weather is always good.

“It never rains in Ponemah,” Jackson says. “We haven't had a drop on Canada Day in the eight years we've been holding the parade.”

The parade takes place just once a year, but another Jackson-Smith venture Ponemah Beach Central - is busy every day from the May long weekend to early fall. This historic building, at 27 Central Ave., was the community’s general store and post office from 1927 until the 1970s. After usage as a cottage until the 1990s, it was bought several years ago by the couple’s daughter, Tanis Froese, who planned to turn it into an ice cream store. When Froese found she didn't the have time to run a business, she sought ideas from her mother who came up with a plan for a non-profit arts and social centre.

That was a natural because Jackson has a background as a Winnipeg watercolour artist and operator of the “Block Mounts” picture framing store at St. Mary's Rd. and Tache Ave. in Norwood. She and Smith bought their Ponemah cottage in 1995 and became permanent village residents upon retirement two years ago. The transition actually started four years ago when Jackson opened Ponemah Beach Central and started developing a program that is expanding every summer.

Typically, the cosy central building offers weekday art and quilting classes plus weekend shows and sales by local artists and crafts people. Open daily, it is also the site of occasional dessert parties and potluck suppers, as well as being a stop on the Interlake artists wave tour in June and

early September.

“It is a nice setting for an art show,” says Gimli artist Lorraine Bohn who exhibited at Ponemah Central last summer. “It is good for local artists to get exposure and the Ponemah shows help both the artist and the gallery. It is just getting known and I believe it will have a bright future.”

Jackson says her gallery is developing as a social centre as well. “We have a bulletin board out front and people come to see what's going on,” she says, adding that a bit of gossip may take place at the same time.

Art has always been a labour of love for Jackson who grew up on an Inglis farm in the Russell-Roblin area of Western Manitoba. Allergic to animals, she spent a lot of time indoors, learning to sew before she started school. Watercolour painting and quilting were also added to her accomplishments before her family moved to Winnipeg where the teenage Jackson graduated from Kelvin High School.

A long-time member of the Artisans 12 artists' co-operative on Winnipeg's River Ave., Jackson has always lived in Manitoba except for three years in the 1980s when husband Bruce, a Supercrete Ltd. executive, was a contract manager for construction of Vancouver's light rapid transit Skyway train system. West coast living was an interesting experience, but Jackson doesn't rate it with her dozen years in Dunnottar.

"The village is my Shangri-La,” she says.

“There is a real sense of community and I have met some of the greatest people I know.”

Besides the parade and arts centre, Jackson and Smith were pillars of the “Friends of Dunnottar - Station Project” which purchased the Matlock CPR station from the Harrison family and moved it to 300 Railway Ave., kitty-corner to Ponemah Beach Central. Refurbished before the official opening last July, the 1904 era station is developing as a museum of Dunnottar memories with artifacts collected by the Western Beaches Historical Society.

The collection already includes historic pictures, a vintage police siren, a rail conductor's uniform and a velocipede, a small handpumped rail vehicle that CP employees used to check the tracks. But it is Jackson's hope that this is just the start. ...continued on next page

Physiotherapy Massage Therapy Acupuncture Orthotics (braces, splints, custom foot orthotics)

Providing Rehabilitation Services at the Lake!

LIGHTHOUSE MALL, Centre St., Gimli Betty Jane Jackson and her family at the Dunnottar Canada Day Parade.

From left, Betty Jane, Bruce, Tannis and Cornie Froese and Katie Froese.

“We would like Dunnottar residents to submit more memorabilia,” she says. “We are particularly looking for photographs and written personal histories.”

She is the first to admit that the four separate projects couldn't have been accomplished without countless hours of work by volunteers. Although the names would run into the hundreds, some of these luminaries are Barb and John Morris, Don Bowles, Frank McKinnon, Robin Mather, Jason Oliver, Don Cardinell, John Muir, Elaine Twanow, Cornie and Tannis Froese, Katie Froese and Daniel Aitken.

Dunnottar Mayor Rick Gamble has been an active supporter of all four projects. “Betty and Bruce have been an absolute asset to the village,” he says. “There are not enough superlatives to describe them. They epitomize community spirit and always have

GIMLI

something on the go.”

The mayor's sentiments are echoed by the arts community. Winnipeg Beach painter Helma Rogge Rehders, organizer of the annual Wave artists tour, says Jackson's art and museum ventures are making a significant contribution to Interlake culture. “Betty has combined an artistic vision with expertise and energy,” Rogge Rehders said. “Her gallery has been a great addition to our tour.”

Now that Jackson is a permanent resident, she has added carol singing to her repertoire, joining a new Dunnottar group, led door to door last Christmas by Gwen Adams. That was a prelude to another busy summer that will once again keep Jackson away from the beach.

“I will carry on with my projects as long as I have the energy,” says the soft-spoken 69 year-old mother of four grown children.

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17 ON MAP, PAGE 20

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20 ON MAP, PAGE 20

H2O Summer 2007 11

by Linda Goodman

O

n Wednesday nights during the summer months, it’s a tradition in Gimli to watch from shore as the Gimli Yacht Club’s weekly 7:00 pm Regatta takes place. It’s difficult to discern what’s truly happening, as upwards of 20 sailboats “play chicken” with each other, jockeying for the coveted best starting position. One particular team, however, does stand out. On board Sunshine, Nancy Folliott is at the helm of her C & C 27 Mark III Racer/Cruiser. She is skipper of the spirited, all-women Keelboat team who are entering their seventh thrilling season of regatta racing. Her crew of six are all seasoned sailors, most of whom own yachts of their own and have put in time sailing with their husbands and friends.

The team’s tactician, Sally Brodrick, amongst others, were looking for a personal challenge. “I didn’t want to be deck fluff anymore,” she said, referring to how, when the going got tough during a race, the men would always take over, leaving the women to feel superfluous.

Similarly, Cynthia Downs, now the team’s Spinnaker Chief, did not enjoy feeling like ballast: “One year, at the Yacht Club’s annual wine and cheese, with some liquid encouragement, we started complaining about this annoying male habit,” she said.

Indeed, it was Nancy who felt that men were not a “necessary ingredient on a racing team. Nancy was looking for a regular crew, so we jumped ship and have been having fun ever since,” said Cynthia, the mother of three children, all of whom sail.

Weekly sailing races began in 1980 when Tom Smith and Don Gustafson initiated the event at Silver Harbour. By 1995, Smith decided to introduce the Regatta event at the Gimli Yacht Club, and the tradition continues on.

From a shoreline vantage point, it is all white sails and colourful spinnakers, as the sailors romance the wind and the waves. On deck, it’s a different story.

“When we first began racing, it was intimidating,” admits Nancy, who assumed other competitors were significantly more experienced than she. However, having sailed on her own most of the time, Nancy is continually testing her skills.

She notes that she has now mastered combat skills during competition. “The real thrill is being in control and pushing the boat to its limits,” she said.

For Judy Conn, on foredeck, it’s not really about competition. “I like to do well, of course, but it’s about getting better at sailing and the fun of getting together on Wednesday nights. Sometimes we have a really good race and it makes you feel good that the team in in sync,” she said. Those Wednesday night gatherings are about more than just racing. As Cynthia put it: “We sail, we discuss life, we argue, we laugh, we shout at each other. It’s all good.”

12

H2O Summer 2007

Nancy’s biggest challenge as skipper is to keep the crew focused on the racing.

“Some of my team members tend to share recipes, discuss books, announce births and deaths, and where they vacationed last winter.”

It is Michele Evans’ job on foredeck to communicate to the crew. “I really have to shout when I need their attention,” says Michele. “The blind spots at the start line are one of the most tense parts of the race, but also the most exciting.

When 20 boats are all jockeying for position they get really close and they’re coming at you from all directions.” Michele recalls a close call when another boat tried to push the Sunshine close to the mark so they could get a better angle to the wind and pass. “There was lots of screaming on Sunshine and the other boat didn’t respond until the last second,” she explained. They ended up going over the anchor rope of the crash boat, which was being manned by Cynthia’s son, missing it by mere inches!

For Cynthia, sailing “takes wind and water.

Racing takes guts. We go out in all kinds of weather.”

“Lake Winnipeg is a lake of enchantment, romance, thrills and tragedy, and the mood changes at the whim of the wind,” said Nancy who has a great respect for Lake Winnipeg. Indeed, four years ago the fleet was in position to begin a race; “The sky was black with cloud and the waters grey with turbulence.

The clouds swirled east and within 30 seconds, the wind speed went from 15 knots to 45 and maxed out at 58 knots!” explained Nancy. “The team was fabulous, everyone had a role to play in getting the sails securely stowed.” While below decks they even discovered some beer throughout all the excitement. Go team!

The spinnaker, a large, boldly colored three-cornered sail, is set forward of the mainsail. Typically bulging when full, ‘jibing the spinnaker’ has been likened to a ballet, but can also cause public humiliation, as well as being dangerous. Flying ‘the spin’ for the first time was a memorable experience for Cynthia and her ambitious shipmates: with a xeroxed ‘how-to-fly-a-spinnaker’ manual in one hand, Cynthia shouted orders to her responsive crew. They’ve since honed their skills.

There is one event that truly separates the women from the men. Frock Night.

This annual event was inspired by Sally at Princess Harbour when, doing her best imitation of a posh lady, dress and all, she zealously attempted to jump onto another boat with a foil-covered Cornish game hen in hand. Now, once a year, in honour of this incident, the Sunshine sailors don incongruous frocks and set sail.

Yes, this team is serious about sailing, and yes, they test their skills as athletes.

Rodica Dragomir, a marathon runner who hails from Transylvania, is proud to substitute when she is needed. Weather Goddess and back-up helmsman, Janet Smith, has played hockey and ringette for 30 years and also rollerblades. But, these gals also know how to have fun. Frock night emphasizes the fact that this all-women team compete in a traditionally male-dominated sport in which they are highly successful.

“Nancy is a wonderful captain. I have a lot of respect for her,” says Judy. “She is the strategic planner and no one ever questions her decisions.” The team view Nancy as their personal hero. “Racing is a way for us to escape the commitments of family and career,” says Nancy, who believes that sailing has provided her with renewed confidence. “It has opened the door for many other experiences. I tend to live more adventurously and look beyond my own community.” A leader in all aspects, Nancy continues to draw loyalty from her fellow shipmates and friends.

For sustenance, Michele’s partner Brad treats the team to gourmet sandwiches on the way to Gimli. After racing he has served Cuban chicken and pears and hand-tossed pizza. And, one cold, wet evening, the weary sailors were treated to hot rum toddies. It seems that everyone has their priorities straight on this team!

Now, what’s this scuttlebutt I hear about the Commodore and ‘Thong Night’?

The best shoreline angling spots: 1. Willow Creek, 5 km south of Gimli 2. Stevensen Point in Winnipeg Beach 3. The Gimli Pier in Gimli

140 slips, seasonal and daily moorage, gas, boat launch, licensed restaurant, picnic area, close walk to town. Call 389-3584.

Boundary Creek Marina,

275 slips (to be increased this season), seasonal and daily moorage, Yacht Club, water, diesel and gas, pump-out facility, boat launch, picnic & BBQ area, historic site. Call 642-7517.

Gimli Harbor Marina,

Silver Harbor Marina, 110 slips, seasonal and daily moorage, showers,

picnic area, boat launch, boat storage. Call 642-7245.

15 O N M A P PAG E 1 7

Catching your limit:* (C - Conservation/R - Regular) Pickerel, Sauger and Pike - C4/R6; Perch - C25/R25; Goldeye - C10/R10; Whitefish and White Bass - C25/R25; Catfish - C1/R4; Carp - No Limit; *Size restrictions apply.

The best bait for the catch: Pickerel - live Emerald Shiner (ES) minnows*, or lure in creeks; Sauger, Perch and Goldeye - live ES minnows; Pike - flashy lure (silver or red and white stripe), or dead smelts; Sunfish crayfish or night crawlers; White Bass live Emerald Shiner minnows, small shiny spinner; Catfish - blood bait (head of a goldeye), earthworms, crayfish. *Catch Emerald Shiner minnows using a minnow net (live bait is permitted on Lake Winnipeg).

What line to use/the best times to fish: High quality12-14 test, like Silver Thread. Last week of May through midJuly (until the water warms up), and September. Dawn to 9am & 5-9 pm.

The cost of a fishing license:* MB Senior (65 & over) - CFree/R$16 MB Resident (16- 64) - C$10/R$16 Canadian Resident (16+) - C$19/R$37 Non-Resident (16+) - C$28/R$51 *See 2007 Manitoba Anglers’ Guide for details or call 642-6070. Visit the website at www.manitobafisheries.com

TUBES & WATERSKIS AVAILABLE NO BOATERS LICENSE REQUIRED

ON GIMLI BEACH!

FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY! open daily - weather permitting Y ON MAP, PAGE 21

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for more information call 642-9788 or 642-8772

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H

e stole it! It was the summer of 1978. I was working as a seasonal nature interpreter at Grand Beach Provincial Park. As I conducted a nature walk along the east beach, my group and I watched an osprey flying overhead with a large fish grasped tightly in its talons. Seemingly from nowhere, a bald eagle swooped in, clipped the osprey, which, when startled, let go of the fish. The eagle quickly dove down to recover the osprey’s lost meal. At the time, we stood there in stunned amazement. In my subsequent research, I discovered that the bald eagle is one of the eight species of world- wide Sea Eagles.

Moreover, they all practice “kleptoparasitism”, or stealing prey from other raptors––ospreys, hawks and falcons.

As Roger Tory Peterson, author of the popular Peterson Field Guides, so aptly put it, the bald eagle is “all field mark.” Its huge size, all white head and white tail make it unmistakable. Its massive bill and feet are yellow. However, because it does not attain these physical features until its fourth or fifth year, the immature baldie is almost always mistakenly identified by the layperson as a golden eagle.

Although golden eagles can be observed in Manitoba, the majority of these sightings are confined to the south-western corner of the province. The golden eagle is a raptor that inhabits the Great Plains and Rocky Mountain foothills where it hunts rabbits and other small mammals. The bald eagle, on the other hand, feeds almost exclusively on fish and carrion and thus can be observed around lakes and along rivers.

The bald eagle is Canada’s largest bird of prey. It can attain a wingspan of up to 8 feet, or 2.4 meters. At a distance, eagles can be distinguished from ospreys and vultures by the manner in which they hold their wings while they soar. Vultures hold their flight feathers curved up in a dihedral position, while ospreys glide with a crook in the elbow. Eagles, on the other hand, characteristically soar with wings held straight out and horizontal. Unmistakable––even at a great distance.

Eagles have remarkable eyesight. Try this in your yard: place an eraser on the ground to represent a mouse. Now step backwards slowly away from the eraser until you no longer can see it. Measure the distance from you to the eraser and multiply it by 8. Now walk off that measurement from the eraser. That is approximately how high in the sky an eagle could typically be and still see a tiny mouse scurrying in the grass below. ‘Eagle eyes’, indeed!

You may expect to see bald eagles almost anywhere in the province as their numbers and breeding range increase.

The Manitoba one-day record count was set near the border crossing of Windygates on April 1st, 2006, when a ‘convocation’ of 245 bald eagles were counted moving through the Pembina Valley.

That’s no April fool’s joke. I have seen them regularly from the fairways of the Sandy Hook Golf Course during spring and fall migrations. I have also observed them throughout the year, in every weather condition and increasingly near, or in, Winnipeg. I remember looking up from my spring yard work last year when, against a brilliant blue, late winter sky, two baldies soared by, their white tails flashing mirror-like as the sun reflected at just the right angle. During this past winter’s cold snap, when it was unfit for neither man nor beast, a bald eagle flew across PTH 8 as I drove from Sandy Hook back to Winnipeg. Where this creature would have found enough food to sustain itself at this challenging time, is a mystery. Carrion from road kill, perhaps.

Bald eagles are renowned for their enormous stick nests. Eagles choose to build nests high up in large trees, near water, which normally affords a good view in all directions. As new material is added to the same nest annually––provided the tree does not collapse under the weight––the nest

14 H2O Summer 2007

by Ken Porteous will expand to massive proportions. For perspective, picture two eggs the size of billiard balls, laid on top of a Volkswagen beetle.

Two, or sometimes, rarely three, ivory white eggs, with a granular surface, are laid in late March or early April. After 35 days on average of incubation, the first chick hatches. The sibling hatches one to four days later which gives the first chick a significant advantage when it comes to competing for food. Therefore, the chick first hatched frequently kills or starves the second born. The young eagles take to flight sometime between mid-July and midAugust. Eaglets repeatedly return to the nest for some time, to roost and feed.

Bald eagles are a success story continent-wide.

For the first half of the 20th century they suffered from persecution and poaching. DDT and related pesticides nearly wiped them out in eastern North America from 1946 to the 1960s, before the effects of DDT became apparent. From that time forward to the present, the bald eagle has made an impressive comeback. They surely are the poster bird for an enlightened generation. A more respectful understanding and appreciation of this magnificent creature has enabled it to co-exist and thrive throughout North America. But let us not become complacent; we must remain ever vigilant of its protection, for, to lose this symbol of freedom from our skies would be a travesty of the highest order.

by Kathryn McBurney We didn’t always have the comforts provided today by electricity.

History enthusiasts and those of us who simply appreciate the ability to flick a switch to turn on a light in the evening will enjoy the Manitoba Electrical Museum & Education Centre’s temporary exhibit at the New Iceland Heritage Museum this summer.

The Power Up on Electrical History exhibit presents a snapshot of rural electrification in Manitoba as well as aspects of electrical development in general.

The exhibit also offers a glimpse of the large collection of artifacts, photographs, documents, and interactive displays which can be found at the Manitoba Electrical Museum & Education Centre, located in Winnipeg.

Learn about the first uses of electricity in Manitoba, what year Gimli was first electrified, and which electrical appliance was most popular in the province in 1954. The exhibit also features one of the oldest electrical artifacts existing in Manitoba along with Manitoba’s oldest refrigerator. Read about people from Gimli who played major roles at Manitoba Hydro and about the generating stations that provide essential electricity to our province.

If you can’t imagine a time when the most basic electrical household appliances didn’t exist you should definitely visit the Power up on Electrical History exhibit. And, if you are able to imagine that time then simply visit the New Iceland Heritage Museum’s latest exhibit for a walk down memory lane.

The exhibit is on display from mid-May to mid-October, 2007. More electrical antiques and information can be discovered year round at the Manitoba Electrical Museum & Education Centre––680 Harrow Street in Winnipeg. They are open Monday to Thursday, 1-4 p.m. and by appointment at 477-7905.

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1 ON MAP, PAGE 21

Waterfront Centre Main Floor, 94-1st Avenue

Lake Winnipeg Visitor Centre Gimli Harbour

Photogenic Hecla Island captured in new book

Gimli Public School (1915) 2nd Floor, 62-2nd Avenue

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nyone who regularly visits Hecla, or knows Icelandic, will recognize that the word ‘Mikley’ translates as ‘Big Island’. Mikley Moments, Portraits of Hecla Island, is a recently released self-published book, produced by Maxine and Stephanie Ingalls. The mother and daughter team decided to publish a book to showcase Stephanie’s work as a photographer and so that they could share their personal views of their beloved Hecla, where much of their time is spent. Maxine’s family (Helgason) arrived in Hecla from Iceland in 1885; she and her family lived there until they were expropriated.

The photographs capture Hecla’s breathtaking natural beauty, ever-present wildlife, as well as the living legacy of a venerable fishing industry that co-exists with today's modern tourism lifestyles. The book is available in Gimli at Tergesen’s, Sandstone Gift & Home, the Gimli INL office, and the New Iceland Heritage Museum.

Mikley Moments will also be available throughout Hecla Island.

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EXHIBITS - GUIDED GROUP TOURS

(204) 642-4001

Blessed, Portrait of Amma

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t the request of her beloved Amma, Katrina Anderson spent six years interviewing and documenting the stories of her life in rural Manitoba. The result is Blessed: Portrait of Asdis Sigrun Anderson, a “rich, compelling personal narrative of a pioneer woman and her life of strength and indisputable goodness.” Edited by Marjorie Anderson, a Professor of Literature at the University of Manitoba, Blessed has inspired the launch of her new publishing business, Anderson House Publishing. Previously, in collaboration with Carol Sheilds, they co-edited the highly successful Dropped Threads triad, with contributions from such luminaries as Margaret Atwood, Anne-Marie MacDonald and Chantal Kreviazuk. The book is available at Tergesen’s in Gimli and at McNally Robinson in Winnipeg.

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H2O Summer 2007 15

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Match the number or letter listed below (to the left of the businesses, attraction or service) with the corresponding number or letter in the Red or Blue Circle on the map. Example: S Outdoor Stage

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Advertisers Helma Rogge Rehders Fine Art Studio at Boundary Creek Blue Rooster GrafficWear; Russin Insurance Fishfly Gallery Gimli Credit Union Lone Oak Motel Niakwa Restaurant & Lounge

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Attractions & Services Boardwalk & Walking Trail Children’s Park Winnipeg Beach Legion Boundary Creek Marina Public Parking Outdoor Stage Tennis Courts Peter Toth Totem Pole Washrooms / Change Rooms Winnipeg Beach Town Office

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e has sailed on the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, and many lakes in between, but the pull to the shores of the Interlake was strong for Gordy Driscoll, and his “first mate” Sandy, who have lived in Sandy Hook for 10 years. Earlier, “the boat was our cottage,” said Driscoll. “That was ideal.

There is no grass to cut when you live on a boat.”

Driscoll first acquired his love of the sea and all things nautical as a young sea cadet. Since 1994 he has been sailing on Lake Winnipeg and is a long standing member of the Winnipeg Beach Yacht Club.

“All aspects of the ocean are here on Lake Winnipeg,” says Driscoll, a seasoned sailor who spent

THE BEACH Enjoy our beautiful sandy beaches, great for water sports, including the best windsurfing on the west shore of the Lake Winnipeg.

THE PARK

Come experience our impressive provincial park and HISTORIC BOARDWALK nestled on the shores of Lake Winnipeg.

Great for a picnic or family reunion.

SKATEBOARD PARK For the young and the young at heart, our skateboard park will keep you fit all summer long!

H2O Summer 2007

an entire year sailing the Bahamas. “It’s a great expanse of rough, shallow water. I have a great respect for this lake.”

Their refurbished lakefront cottage is now their permanent home. “We love it here and we really feel connected,” he said. What they connect with most closely is the rich artistic community that exists here. As a retired commercial artist, Driscoll now focuses on his marine art, which includes detailed boat portraits, current and historical, as well as birds and evocative waterfront landscapes.

But, with Sandy as his working partner, he still takes on special commercial art projects such as our new Town of Gimli Map, seen on pages 20 and 21 of this issue of the H2O Guide. The map also appears on our new website.

THERE’S ACTION EVERY WEEKEND AT ‘THE BEACH’ Please call our Events Line at 389-5126 or check our Website at www.winnipegbeach.ca for dates & times of upcoming attractions.

Bring the entire family and see why “The Beach” is truly the best place to be!

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Television Series!

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Always Open - Never Closed!

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OPEN 24 HOURS! NE CORNER Hwy #8 & PR #231 - GIMLI (204) 642-4600 1

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REGIONAL MAP

Match the number or letter listed below (to the left of the businesses, attraction or service) with the corresponding number or letter in the Red or Blue Circle on the map. Examples:

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18 Health Launch - Sherrill Ruckert W Willow Creek Centennial Park

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Gimli & Beaches

Recycling

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Clean, dry materials can be dropped off at any of the recycling locations.

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Advertisers 1 Biscuit Harbour; Hecla Oasis Resort; Integrity Foods (Riverton) 2 Interlake Heating & Ventilation Ltd.; Oakley Vision Centre; Smitty’s Furniture & Appliances 3 Elektrus Communications 4 Northernaire Golf & Country Club 5 Spruce Sands R.V. Resort 6 Chudd’s Esso; Chudd’s Chrysler 7 Giesbrecht & Sons 8 Fraserwood Hotel & Club 231 9 Gimli Animal Shelter 10 Cornerstone Enterprises 11 Estates West Real Estate - Odin Green 12 Siglavik & Miklavik 13 Sandy Hook West Developments 14 Sandy Hook Gardens 15 Beach West Productions / Gordon Driscoll 16 Sandy Hook Cooking Classes 17 Sandy Hook Hairstyling by Lori 18 Health Launch - Sherrill Ruckert 19 Solmundson’s Greenhouse 20 Interlake Garden Centre 21 Brushfire Signs; Meet Market Adventures; Murphy Wall Beds by Kitchens Plus; Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre; Poulin’s Pest Control Attractions & Services Gimli & District Health Centre Lake Winnipeg Visitor Centre Marina Public Park Gimli & District Recreation Centre Gimli Sports Park, Youth Centre, Skateboard Park, Lawn Bowling Club, New Horizons 55+ Centre W Willow Creek Paddling Route

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Cornerstone Enterprises

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642-5028

RE/MAX Real Estate Service 61 Centre Street GIMLI, Manitoba

204 642-4888 Toll Free 1-866-642-4888

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Large selection of Basket Stuffers Annuals - Perennials - Herbs - Shrubs Hanging Baskets - Planters 19 ON MAP

3 1/2 miles west of Wpg, Beach, on hwy #229

389-3016 H2O Summer 2007 17

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Arts, Crafts & History May - September - “Power Up on Electrical History” - Temporary exhibit from the Manitoba Electrical Museum at the New Iceland Heritage Museum, 941st Ave, Gimli. Call 642-4001.

June, July, August - Ponemah Beach Central Art Centre & Dunnottar CPR Beach Station Museum - On-going displays of local artwork. Watercolour classes Tue & Wed pm. Quilting classes Thur. pm. Weekend art shows, The Wave Tour, Folk musical evenings & flea markets. Station open weekends for visitors and donations. 27 Central Ave at Railway St., Ponemah.Call 389-5682, or 641-0234 / rbsbjj2@mts.net June 9 - 10 - Catch the WAVE! Self-guided Artists’ Studio Tour–west shore of Lake Winnipeg. 10-6 pm. Free.

389-5633. www.watchthewave.ca June 24 - Gallery Open House Paintings, pottery and photos. Fine Art Gallery at Boundary Creek, Wpg Beach, 2-4 pm - Until the snow flies. 389-5633.

July 7 - 8 - Summer Craft & Trade Show Centennial Rd- Gimli Rec Centre.

Free. Silent Auction. NEW this year - the TRADE SHOW / 642-6670.

July 21- “Homage” - Group Show at Mermaid’s Kiss Gallery until July 28th at 85-4th Ave., Gimli. Artist Reception at 7:30 pm. 10% of sales from show to go to Gimli Animal Shelter / 642-7453 www.mermaidskissgallery.com Sept 1 - 2 - Catch the WAVE! Selfguided Artists’ Studio Tour - west shore of Lake Winnipeg. 10 am-6 pm. Free.

389-5633. www.watchthewave.ca

Sept 29 - 30 - Fall Craft Show at the Gimli Rec Centre, Centennial Road, Gimli. Free Admission. Silent Auction.

For information call 642-6670.

Oct 21- Walk to the Rock - 132nd Anniversary of Icelandic immigrants arrival. Sponsor: Gimli Chapter INL.

Festivals & Entertainment May 26 – Grand Opening of the Fraserwood Tourist Hotel - Pig roast, keg of beer - 2pm. Prizes! 643-5304.

June 16- “Standard Time Trio” on the Outdoor Stage, Winnipeg Beach.

Theatre - 2nd Ave., Gimli. For details, call 642-7356 or 642-9447.

June 20 - Singles Kick off to Summer Patio Party 6:30 pm - Pony Corral, 1700 Pembina Hwy, Winnipeg.

Meet Market Adventures (MMA) www.meetmarketadventures.com / 204-663-6338

July 1 - Hecla Community Church Regular services begin at 11 am Sundays from July 1 - Sept 2nd.

Maxine/John Ingalls 279-2061.

June 22 - 24 - “The Rivals” by the Shoestring Players - Winnipeg, opens the Summer Theatre Festival at the ASpire Theatre - 2nd Ave., Gimli. Call 642-7356 or 642-9447 for details.

June 23- “High Profile Band” on the Outdoor Stage, Winnipeg Beach.

May 26 - MMA Singles Pub Crawl starts at 7 pm - Winnipeg location TBA. Early bird discounts. Meet Market Adventures (MMA) 204-663-6338 / www.meetmarketadventures.com

June 30–July 1- Wildflower Wonders An expert botanist helps you discover Hecla’s beauty. Hecla Island EcoTours. 1-800-267-6700, heather.hinam@heclaoasis.com

June 2 - Birding By Ear - Learn to identify birds on Hecla Island EcoTours. Also on June 3, 16, 17, 23, 24; Info: heather.hinam@heclaoasis.com or phone 1-800-267-6700.

June 30 – Canada Day Family Fun Day at Winnipeg Beach / 389-5126.

June 2 - “B-Man and the Chickenhawks” - Outdoor Stage, Winnipeg Beach, 389-5126.

June 9 - Spring Pickerel Fry at Gordon Lee’s - Viking Inn. 8-course meal of pickerel delicacies. 642-5168.

June 9 - Singles Urban Scavenger Hunt 12:30 pm - 5 pm - Winnipeg location TBA. Early bird discounts.

Meet Market Adventures (MMA) www.meetmarketadventures.com / 204-663-6338.

June 9- “Slidin’ Clyde Roulette Band” on the Outdoor Stage, Wpg Beach.

June 30 - Canada Day Fireworks A magnificent fireworks display at the Gimli Harbour on Saturday night, plus entertainment at Gimli’s Pier to kick off the Canada Day festivities! 642-7220.

July 1 - Canada Day Celebrations Gimli Pier: Pancake Breakfast, parade, Fish Fry, ceremony, birthday cake, entertainment. Gimli Park: Family games, entertainment, drinks and hot dogs. Free shuttle service from Pier to Gimli Park. Call 642-7220.

July 1 - Ponemah Canada Day Parade. 9:30 am - best seen along Gimli Road between Central Ave. & Ponemah Rd. Community floats, hot dogs & birthday cake at noon at grounds near Selkirk & Railway Ave. Prizes & Gifts. All Welcome!

July 1 – “Scottish Festival” - Bands on the Boardwalk - Winnipeg Beach.

July 1 - “The Odd Couple” by the Gimli Theatre Group, switches poker for tupperware with female leads in this Neil Simon classic comedy. At the A-Spire

July 6-8 - “Jason Beck’s Comedy Guys” led by Sandy Hook cottager Beck at the A-Spire Theatre - 2nd Ave., Gimli. Call 642-7356 or 642-9447.

July 7- “Big J and the Jive Flyers” on the Outdoor Stage, Winnipeg Beach, 389-5126.

July 8 – Cruisin’ Gimli Beach Car Show - Get up close to see awesome vintage, classic and modern specimens of car perfection on Centre St. Call Bob Forzley at 642-9481 or John Hykawy at 642-7554 for more info.

July 14 – Children’s Fishing Derby - Gimli Harbour. Pre-register at the dock on July 7. Limited to first 100 kids. Same day registration at Harbour10am. Derby runs from 11 am - 2 pm.

July 14 – “Stoney Point Bluegrass Band” Outdoor Stage, Wpg Beach.

July 15 - Live Entertainment - TBA. Hecla Community Hall. Maxine/John Ingalls 279-2061, or jingalls@mts.net July 20-22 “A Month of Sundays”- a comedy play by Virden’s Tumbleweed Productions. A-Spire Theatre - 2nd Ave., Gimli. 642-7356 or 642-9447.

July 27, 28, 29 - Boardwalk Days at Winnipeg Beach. Parade on July 28.

July 27 - 31 - 7th Annual Gimli Film Festival Enjoy over 30 new feature length films, documentaries & innovative shorts from Canada and the circumpolar nations, including Iceland. The Canwest Global Best Manitoba Short Film Award & Audience Favourite Awards. Gimli Beach, Lady of the Lake Theatre. Box 1225, Gimli, MB. R0C 1B0 www.gimlifilmfestival.com

Saturday- Canada Day FIREWORKS & June 30 Entertainment at GIMLI Pier Sunday - Canada Day CELEBRATIONS July 1 Pier: Pancake Breakfast, Parade, Fish Fry, Ceremony Birthday Cake, Entertainment GIMLI Park: Family Games, Entertainment FREE Drinks & Hot Dogs.

18 H2O Summer 2007

Free Shuttle Service from Pier to Gimli Park Contact: 642-7220

2007 GIMLI & BEACHES July 28 - Boardwalk Days Parade.

Winnipeg Beach, 389-5126.

Sept 1 – “Romi Mays” Outdoor Stage, Winnipeg Beach, 389-5126.

Aug 3 - 6 118th Icelandic Festival “Íslendingadagurinn,” one of Canada’s largest ethnic celebrations with authentic costumes & cooking. Parade, fireworks, concerts, fine art show & more.

Souvenir program available everywhere with all events listed. Call 642-7417.

Sept 2 – Old Timers Dance Gimli Park Pavilion. Band-TBA. 642-6670.

Aug 3 - 6 Costumed Viking Village at the harbour “hill.” Meet this spirited group of professional costumed Vikings and artisans and learn all about the Viking way: costumes, cooking, battle & lifestyle reenactments. Jewellery & and unique items for sale.

Aug 5 – “Almost Famous” Outdoor Stage, Winnipeg Beach, 389-5126.

Aug 11 – “Tune Raiders” Outdoor Stage, Winnipeg Beach, 389-5126.

Aug 17-19 - “Arsenic & Old Lace”- a classic comedy play by the Seven Ages of Brandon A-Spire Theatre - 2nd Ave., Gimli. Call 642-7356 or 642-9447.

Aug 17-18 Model Air Show Saturday morning see the static display at the Gimli Harbour. Saturday afternoon, enjoy the “Fun Fly.” On Sunday capture the excitement of the model air show! Don’t miss it!

Aug 18 – “Bonnie & The Clydes” Outdoor Stage, Wpg Beach, 389-5126.

Aug 18 - The Elvis Show At the Gimli Rec Centre. Numerous Elvis impersonators invade Gimli. Doors open at 6 pm. Call 643-5597.

August 26 -"Blessing of the Fleet" 11 am - Service honouring Hecla Fishers, past & presenet. Fishing & historical displays, refreshments. Everyone Velkomin! Hecla Community Church, Hecla Island. Maxine/John Ingalls 279-2061, or jingalls@mts.net

Sept 2 – “Countryblend” Outdoor Stage, Winnipeg Beach, 389-5126.

Sept 3 - “Love on the Prairies” a musical comedy by the Shoestring Players. A-Spire Theatre - 2nd Ave., Gimli. Call 642-7356 or 642-9447.

Sept 20 - Fall Pickerel Fry at Gordon Lee’s at the Viking Inn. 8-course meal of succulent pickerel delicacies. 642-5168.

Fundraisers May 26 - “Artsy Phartsy” Fundraiser A spectacular evening of fine food, fine art and fine entertainment. All proceeds to the Gimli Community Health Centre Healing Garden. Lakeview Resort.

Cocktails 6 pm, dinner 7 pm. Silent Auction of local artists’ work. For info and/or tickets call Dolores at 642-6440.

ble format. Golf, power cart, dinner & prizes. $110/player, $400/team. Call 642-9820 or 642-8565 for info.

Early bird discounts. Meet Market Adventures (MMA) 204-663-6338 / www.meetmarketadventures.com

Sept 16 - Terry Fox Run Fundraiser for Cancer Research. Noon at Gimli Park. Call 642-6670.

June 3 - Singles into Rock Climbing 12:30 - 4 pm - Vertical Adventures, 77 Paramount Rd, Winnipeg. Early bird discounts. Meet Market Adventures (MMA) www.meetmarketadventures.com 204-663-6338

Sept 23 – Parkinson's Walk in memory of Leo Kristjanson - Register 9am; walk begins 10 am at Gimli Public School, 2nd Avenue. Pledge forms everywhere & at www.superwalk.com Oct 27 - Peter’s Pumpkin Party MLA for Gimli, Peter Bjornson hosts the 4th annual event. Pumpkin carving, decorating & costume contests!

Face painting, reading tent, Bounceroo, men’s baked goods, silent auction & entertainment. Gimli Park Pavilion.

Noon-4 pm. Proceeds to the Healing Garden, Gimli Community Health Centre. 642-4977 or 1-866-253-0255.

Sports Events

June 16 - Singles Tandem Power Hang Gliding - 9 am - 4 pm at Adventure @ Altitude, Steinbach, MB. Early bird discounts. Meet Market Adventures (MMA) 204-663-6338, or www.meetmarketadventures.com Aug 7 - 13 - Gimli Minor Hockey Week-Long Camps for girls & boys.

Gimli Rec Centre, 642-7862.

August 18 - Jerry Johnson Memorial Lawnbowling Tournament. Gimli & District Lawnbowling Club. Please call 642-7117 or 642-9332.

Aug 25 - 26 - Rona MS Bike Tour “Biking to the Viking” - then party on the beach after! www.mssociety.ca

May 30 - Singles Indoor Volleyball 6:30 - 9 pm - Winnipeg location TBA.

June 8 - 9 - Relay For Life A celebration of cancer survivors & a tribute to those lost. Teams of 10 take turns walking, running or strolling for 12 hours. Gimli Park Pavilion. Contact Sylvia at ssmith@irha.mb.ca to register.

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June 15 - 3rd Annual Viking Open Golf Tournament & Dinner. Proceeds to the New Iceland Heritage Museum.

At Links at the Lake, 1 mile north of Gimli. Texas Scramble format. Register early by calling 642-4001.

Aug 25 - Annual Texas Scramble Golf Tournament at the Gimli Golf Club, Hwy 231 West. Sponsored by the Viking Inn. Proceeds to Heima Er Best community home. 642-5168.

Sept 10 - Annual Westshore Community Foundation & Lakeview Resort Charity Golf Tournament Links at the Lake Golf Course: scram-

For more information call (204) 642-7417

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Gimli Townsite

MAP LEGEND Match the number or letter listed below with the corresponding number or letter in the Red or Blue Circle on the map. Examples:

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A-Spire Theatre

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ADVERTISERS

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Icelandic Festival Gift Shop Comodo Chinese Restaurant Lakeview Resort / Vacation Club Bayside Gifts, Diamond Beach/Gimli Florist, Sandstone Gift & Home Viking Rentals Gimli Film Festival (July 27-31) Whitecaps Restaurant & Lounge Deals For Dollars H.P. Tergesen & Sons Waterfront Centre, Peter Bjornson - MLA for Gimli, New Iceland Heritage Museum, Icelandic Festival Gift Shop Koma Heim Trading Central Bakery, Chicken Chef Gimli Credit Union Fish Lips Hemp Co., Isaac & Denchuk, P. Crystal Taylor/Scotia McLeod Aurora, Lakeshore Family Chiropractic Lighthouse Mall - Oakley Vision Center, Quarry Physiotherapy, Royal LePage/JMB Associates Paco’s Pizza / G& C Grocery Mermaid’s Kiss Gallery Taylor Pharmacy, Gimli Liquor Mart Interlake Real Estate / Insurance Gimli Super A Foods Gimli Bowling Centre Remax Realty, Russin Insurance Cocoa Bella Chocolatier, Gimli Veterinary Services Johnson’s Department Store Red River Co-op - Mac’s Beachcomber Family Hair Design Gimli Physiotherapy Clinic The Home Store, Sveinson Construction Autumnwood Motel & RV Resort Sobeys Viking Inn / Gordon Lee’s Restaurant DIAGEO Canada / Crown Royal Elektrus Communications

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Home of the Cinnamoniest of Cinnamon Buns, King of Imperial Cookies, Unsurpassed Apple Strudel, and, of course, every kind of bread you can imagine.

Breakfasts Andarethesimply the Best!

72-1st Ave. Gimli

A Gimli Landmark

Try our Icelandic Specialties: Kleinur - Serbaka 7 ON MAP

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www.centralbakery.ca

30 Centre Street, Gimli

642-5544

H2O Summer 2007 21

Whether you are just starting out on a physical activity program or whether you’re a seasoned runner, there are many ways to experience the Interlake and to continue to have a positive impact on your health!

E

veryone needs a vacation!

And continuing to be physically active can be part of those plans. Without the pressures of your everyday routine, and with the inspiration of beautiful Lake Winnipeg, there are many ways to discover the Interlake and get your heart rate up at the same time!

Walking, hiking or running are great ways to explore, socialize with friends and family and a way to enjoy being outdoors. While on foot you can appreciate the beauty and history of your Interlake vacation destination.

You will be inspired to get out of your vehicle and explore the Hearts in Motion Pathway in Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park.

Discover the rich history of the “Moonlight Specials” and the “Daddy Trains” that delivered cottagers and vacationers to the “Coney Island of the North” complete with amusement rides, the boardwalk and dance hall.

Why not experience the solitude of a stroll along the pathways in Camp Morton Provincial Park north of Gimli? Or, you could take in an Interlake sunrise on another popular route along south beach in Gimli, to the Gimli pier and public beach, and on into the cottage area of Loni Beach.

This is the favoured route of Ron Chopek, one of the founding members of the Gimli Gliders, Walking & Running Club.

Chopek, now in his ‘60s, started running in his early 30’s and hasn’t looked back! At his doctor’s recommendation to add more physical activity into his life, Ron laced up his running shoes and ran his first marathon

after only 8 months of training!

While his physician supported his efforts, Ron says that today there are a lot more supports in place for people to learn to run. Ron believes that “we should all have a passion” and that his “is running. It’s a big part of my life.”

Ron shared his passion by starting up a running club in 1981, while he was still living in Winnipeg. To this day he is a member of that club, citing the buddy support network as a great motivation to stay active.

And now, that kind of support network is here in Gimli! The Gimli Gliders meet every Thursday at 5:30 pm and every Sunday morning at 9:00 am at the Kaffe Haus. If you’re from out of town or a permanent resident of the Interlake, you are invited to join this casual group for a walk or run.

Everyone goes at their own pace, it’s a non-competitive atmosphere, you can share information about your experiences, meet others who share an interest in staying active, and explore the community on foot.

As a 2006 inductee to the Manitoba Runners Hall of Fame for his vast contributions to the running community, Ron offers these words of advice about running: “Anyone can do it. It is possible.” He recommends using a buddy support system so that you have a commitment to someone else to get out and get active. He

Jan Keryluk is a Manitoba Fitness Council Certified Fitness Leader and winner of the Reh-Fit Centre’s Healthy Living Awards for 2006. She is currently leading fitness classes for Evergreen School Division and writing an online newsletter promoting physical activity in the region. To subscribe to her e-newsletter, email jank@mts.net

Ron Chopek

stresses the importance of educating yourself by reading or talking to others about the proper shoes and clothing for the activity so that you are comfortable. If asked about nutrition Ron recommends following the “Canada Food Guide, watch your fats and sugar intake and also monitor your portion sizes.” After guiding many people through the 10-Week Learn to Run Program with the Running Room in Winnipeg, Ron still enjoys seeing the confidence that is built when a goal is attained. He says “the transformation is a joy to watch.”

Ron Chopek has “a positive addiction to movement” and if you do too, there are other ways to add walking and running to your summer plans.

Why not take in the 10 mile road race as part of your Icelandic Festival activities? Or, while doing something good for yourself, why not do something good for others? The Relay for Life, The Parkinson's Walk and the Terry Fox Run are all events where you can be active while raising money for very worthy causes. (Details below and on the Events Listings on page 18-19).

June 8 – Relay for Life in Gimli Park – Contact Sylvia Smith at ssmith@irha.mb.ca to register a team.

June 17 – Manitoba Marathon – for Manitobans Living with Intellectural Disabilities – www.manitobamarathon.mb.ca September 16 – Terry Fox Run – Annual walk/run inspired by Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope – www.terryfoxrun.org September 30 – CIBC Run for the Cure – in Winnipeg – www.cibcrunforthecure.com September 23 – Leo Kristjanson Memorial Walk – Old Public School, 2nd Ave., in Gimli – www.superwalk.com

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22 H2O Summer 2007

Siglavik Canal

Crow Island

Pelican Island

Lake Winnipeg

Siglavik Canal

Siglavik

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ust an hour up the road from Gimli, the farmland transforms into more rugged terrain. The land falls away and before you know it, you are surrounded by water.

You have crossed over to Hecla Island.

Named for the Icelandic volcano whose eruption triggered a mass immigration to this area in the late 1800s, the island is the largest in Lake Winnipeg and the showpiece of Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park. The park is also a nature lover’s paradise, packing several habitats into about 1000 square kilometers. Its combination of open water, sweeping marshes, jagged cliffs and dense forests offers a number of opportunities for the avid naturalist.

As part of a major migratory route, the park is home to over 200 species of birds. Birders can watch pelicans and eagles patrolling along the lakeshore, listen to songbirds flitting through the forest or search for waterbirds among the reeds. However, birds are not the only things Hecla has to offer.

Many other critters call the park their home. Moose and deer blaze trails through the forest. Beavers build canals through the wetlands. Garter snakes can be found in crevasses in the limestone bedrock. Those who are daring can venture out after dark and scan the

skies for bats. Nighttime might also bring the chilling howl of a wolf or call of an owl through the background chorus of frogs. The variety of habitats also presents the opportunity to observe myriad wildflowers and butterflies.

A well-established trail system offers many ways to explore Hecla on your own. In addition you could try out one of the new guided tours soon to be offered by the recently renovated Hecla Oasis Resort. Their new ecotourism program is designed to give visitors the chance to get up close and personal with the natural world.

Guided by trained naturalists, guests will learn about the wilderness around them through both traditional tours and by participating in long-term research programs. Packages range in length from half a day to several days.

So if you are looking to take a walk on the wild side, head up to the Hecla/Grindstone region and experience a little island magic.

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Heather Hinam, Ph.D., is the Director of Ecotourism at the new Hecla Oasis Resort, Gull Harbour. For tour details, call 1-800-267-6700. Also, check our website at www.h2oguide.ca for updates.

Photo above: Heather and “Killer”, a jeuvenile Northern Saw-whet Owl.

5 km to Gimli

WILLOW CREEK

Paddling Map

SIGLAVIK

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Wetlands channel

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Great birdwatching!

Start Here WILLOW CREEK

LAKE WINNIPEG

Centennial Park

H2O Summer 2007 23

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awn. The first rays of sun reach the sky as a new day begins. They greet the ripples on the lake with sparkling diamonds that dance on the crests. A light breeze reaches from the water and engages my presence. I walk along the shore in solitude, an ephemeral participant in a timeless scene.

Light, wind, waves and sand— physical elements that create an atmosphere for the soul, where spirituality and Nature are one. A place for deep thought and meditation. What are the dynamics of the shore that can evoke such powerful emotions?

Wind and waves. The uneven heating of the earth’s surface creates wind, which generates waves that crash on shores. Waves. Kinetic energy replaces radiant energy. As a wave approaches the shore, a piece of wood bobs on the surface. Up and down, back and forth, as the wave goes by. The wave comes toward you, but the water and the stick are left behind.

The wave is an entity that uses water as the medium for its message. As it enters the shallows, the trough of the wave drags the bottom and slows. The following crest rushes on and overtakes the trough.

Simultaneously, the wave is lifted by the sloping beach, and gravity claims the steepened crest. With a roar, it plunges back on the beach.

The water—the swash— rushes up the slope, pauses, and leaves its mark. It dashes down the slope—the backwash—gurgles, shifts pebbles and sand, and encounters its kin, a following wave on the same eternal journey.

At the height of the wave’s progress, a clear swash mark is left on the beach—a wavy line of fine sand, foam, twigs, needles and other debris. Each wave leaves this signature, and just as each wave is unique with its own history, each swash mark is a fingerprint from its parent.

I walk the beach along the swash zone just above the water’s edge and look for stones, shells and pebbles.

Here the backwash has been deflected

by Alex Tretiak around these objects, resulting in Vswash marks. Sand grains have been sorted by size and arranged in geometric patterns. As the day advances and the wind abates, the waves diminish.

Their progress up the beach is reversed, and a series of swash marks trace their retreat to the water’s edge.

Evening approaches, the wind wanes, and sand ripples appear in the calm shallows. They have been produced by the back and forth motion of the water under the waves—oscillatory ripples, with their crests parallel to the beach. There are many features on the sand waiting to be discovered, and an inquiring mind will reveal their stories. usk. Insects touch the water, small fish jump, seagulls call and congregate as they prepare for the night. The moon arrives above the horizon across the lake. In this tranquil setting, I get the urge to skip a stone.

Skipping stones is not a crude sport, but an acquired skill and an art

“I am struck by this message from the shore.”

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in its own right. Select a flat, somewhat circular stone. The crucial step is to put a spin on the stone—angular momentum—as you throw it.

This keeps the stone spinning flat as it heads out over the water, instead of tumbling. Throw it with a sidearm delivery, and parallel to the ground. The stone should hit the water in the flat position, and skip along for several hops. After each skip, the spin is less, and the skips shorter until the stone digs in and sinks.

I notice rings moving out from each spot where the stone skipped on the water. Tiny waves generated from the energy that I transferred to the stone, and the stone to the water. Waves from human energy; waves from the wind. I am struck by this message from the shore: we are part of the energy that flows through the cosmos. Our presence may be transient and humble, but we have a remarkable gift—to be on the shore, and to know we are here.

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24 H2O Summer 2007

you agree that sitting next to the water offers a special healing quality. A Reiki session will be great to open up any blocks and get the energy flowing through your body. Even the spiritual guidance massage at Aromansse in Riverton might be interesting. This is the summer that you will think yourself into better health.

As you allow your thoughts free association and revel in awe of the beauty that surrounds you, you notice a sun dog––this is a good omen. Holding the palm of your left hand up you visualize a steam of rainbow colours entering your body.

Soon your entire body is filled with a rainbow and you lift up your right hand holding your palm to the sky and allow the rainbow to return to its original source.

Another smile and a deep sigh as you name the exercise––mental floss. The Things To Do This Summer list can wait until tomorrow. Someone once said that Ponemah means ‘paradise’ and Gimli means ‘harmony’. This morning you know that you are somewhere in between the two.

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t’s the first day of summer vacation. You arrived late last night. Your bags are still at the door. You will unpack later. For now, you just want to lay in bed and listen to the sound of the lake as it laps at the beach, and stare at the slow moving blades of the ceiling fan. The sounds of the city, traffic, and sirens are noticeably absent. You don’t have to be at a certain place, at a certain time. A smile spreads across your face as you pull up the covers and stretch.

Maybe today you will just sit on the beach with a good book. Maybe you will explore the shore for glass or drift wood and add to your collection of lake treasure.

If you’re lucky you may find a few Odin stones, the ones with the holes in the middle. Maybe you’ll pull the canoe down from the rafters and head for Willow Creek Centennial Park off highway 9 and paddle through the marsh. For sure you’ll take your camera, perhaps even your sketch pad.

The birds are calling through the open window. Sitting up on the side of the bed, you tuck your toes into a favorite pair of slippers, slip on your bathing suit then go in search of the old coffee pot. While you wait for the coffee to perk, you decide to pull out the box of photos that you always meant to put into albums, and place them on the kitchen table for later.

Pouring a cup of fresh coffee you pick up a pencil and paper for writing your Things To Do This Summer list and venture outdoors to the deck where your favorite Adirondack chair waits.

Comfortably seated, you lean back, close your eyes and listen to the sounds of the morning. It feels good to take deep breaths, hold them and release slowly as your thoughts drift with the waves. It is as if a heavy cloak of hustle bustle is slipping off your shoulders and being replaced with a sense of free-floating spirit. For now, its just you, the sounds of nature stirring in the light breeze, those big white fluffy clouds in the sky and a body of water so big, you cannot see to the other side. The more in tune you become with the waves, the deeper you breathe and the more relaxed you are. A smile of bliss seems stuck on your face. As the morning sun warms your body a squadron of airborne pelicans seem to tip their wings in an official salute and you wave back.

For the time being, nothing else exists in your world. In this meditative state you ponder the concept of time. The past is gone, the future is yet to be, there is only the present. You send a little prayer of gratitude out into the universe for this reminder. A book you had read by Masaru Emoto, author of Hidden Messages in Water, comes to mind. According to Emoto a person can change themselves at the cellular level with their thoughts alone. Being made up of more than 70% water,

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H2O Summer 2007 25

Biscuit Harbour Resort 125 km north of Gimli - Follow Hwy 8 to PR 234 / 1-888-536-5353 Relax on our lakefront deck overlooking beautiful Biscuit Harbour on Lake

Winnipeg. Sit back and watch the float planes and the birds soaring along the shoreline. How can you resist? Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Central Bakery 30 Centre St., Gimli / 642-5544

daily at 11 am. Check our store for our earlier Summer Hours.

A Gimli tradition. Scrumptious breakfasts and delicious homemade soups and sandwiches. Next door, you’ll find fresh baked breads, cinnamon buns, bagels, cookies, pies, and Icelandic specialties. No smoking. Open daily.

Bakery: 9am- 6pm. Coffee shop open from 6 am-4 pm.

Comodo Chinese Restaurant 81-1st Ave., Gimli / 642-1888

Chicken Chef / 642-8588 Centre St. and 2nd Ave, Gimli

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Go no further! A family style restaurant, with lots of parking. Featuring their famous chicken recipes, plus freshly made pizza, ribs, burgers and fries, plus delicious new salads.

Dine-in, take-out, catering. Open

Open daily at 11 am. Gimli’s newest restaurant. Authentic Chinese food with an All-You-Can-Eat Buffet (subject to hours/seasonality). Outdoor patio & fireplace adjacent to harbour.

Licensed lounge. Dine-In & Take-Out. Gordon Lee’s Chinese Dining Centre & Hwy 9, Gimli / 642-5170 In the Viking Inn. Gimli’s favorite Chinese dining spot for 15 years. Their Chinese chefs prepare every dish to your liking. Licensed. Reservations recommended. Dine-in or take-out.

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Corner of 4th Ave. & Centre St., Gimli Phone 642-6540 20 ON MAP, PAGE 20

Summer Hours (until September 2/07) Mon thru Thurs: 10 am - 6 pm, Fri: 10 am - 9 pm Sat: 10 am - 8 pm, Sun: 12 noon - 6 pm

Mastercard, VISA, American Express & Interac Accepted ® Trademark of AIR MILES International Holdings B.V. Used under license by Loyalty Management Group Canada Inc. and the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission.

Please Drink Responsibly ... Moderation Tastes So Much Better

26 H2O Summer 2007

Niakwa Restaurant / 389-2299 Hwy 9/Kernstead Rd, Winnipeg Beach Now those are home-cooked meals!

Niakwa is renowned for its delicious German specialties, German beer and assorted, irresistible tortes. Sat. dinner buffet. Licensed. Air-conditioned patio.

Take Out & Delivery. Gourmet style pizza, chicken, chicken wings, garlic cheese bread, sauce & more! Home of G & C Grocery & Amazing Video.

Open Sun-Thur 11 am -11 pm.

Fri-Sat 11am -12 am Sandy Hook Cooking Classes www.sandyhookcookingclasses.ca Sandy Hook / 642-1341 Group and private cooking classes with your hosts Cathie & Fokke Hoekstra.

Enjoy an entertaining and educational evening and experience a delicious sit down dinner in our lake-front home.

An exceptional culinary experience.

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Paco’s Pizza & Checkers Country Fried Chicken - 98-3rd Ave., Gimli 642-4151 / 642-8742

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Pizza Nite on the Farm! Enjoy woodfired pizza, made fresh; then eat ‘alfresco’ with your friends and family. June and Sept - Fridays Only. July - Sept (long) - Fridays & Saturdays. Organic Bakery open Mon-Sat. See our ad for coupon offer. www.integrityfoods.ca

Whitecaps Restaurant /Lounge 72-1st Avenue, Gimli / 642-9735

“A great restaurant at the end of your journey” (Ciao!) Succulent seafood, chicken, veal, pasta, ribs and juicy charbroiled steaks. Nightly “Chef’s selections” & delicious desserts. Open 11am-10pm.

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Integrity Foods / 378-2887 10 Km north of Riverton on Hwy No.8

Featuring home-cooked meals. Daily lunch and dinner specials. Sunday Brunch. Reasonably priced meals in a comfortable atmosphere.

store movie rentals & ATM machine on premises. Open 9am-9pm daily.

okin

Three new restaurants to enjoy at the Resort include fine dining, a family restaurant and spa café. Our renowned chefs and culinary team will work hard to ensure your dining experiences bring you back for more epicurean delights.

Morel’s Café / 643-5304 At the Fraserwood Hotel, Fraserwood

We’re co

Hecla Oasis Resort - 45 min north of Gimli -Hwy No. 8 / 1-800- 267-6700 Email: info@heclaoasis.com Website: www.heclaoasis.com

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Seagull’s /Lakeview Resort 10 Centre Street, Gimli / 642-4145 The menu here includes fresh, local fish, steaks, pastas, chicken, fresh salads and more. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Outdoor patio overlooks Gimli Harbour. New, full service lounge.

Spruce Sands Café & Bakery Spruce Sands Trailer Resort Arnes / 642-4469 or 642-5671

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Delicious cookies, pies and desserts, made fresh daily. Open for breakfast, lunch & dinner with a full menu. We have 16 flavours of hard ice cream in-

Gourmet Style Pizza - By the slice!

“Wingos” Chicken Wings Garlic Cheese Bread & Sauce CHECKERS Country Fried Chicken

TAKE-OUT & DELIVERY Delivery Time: 5 pm to Close

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FREE

642-8742

IN-TOWN DELIVERY!

98 - 3rd Ave GIMLI, MB

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or

Home of G&C Grocery & Roger’s Video

Hours Sun-Thur 11 am - 11 pm Fri - Sat 11 am - 12 am

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H2O Summer 2007 27

Aurora Boutique 3-40 Centre St., Gimli / 642-5258 Clothing. Handbags. Jewellery. Like the mystical northern lights, aurora transcends the traditional in a wide array of colour, texture and personality.

You’ll find pleasant surprises in all shapes and sizes. See you this summer. www.aurora-gimli.com Bayside Gifts & Country Jenny’s Antiques Lakeview Resort Gimli / 642-4310 An adventurous excursion in treasure hunting...an eclectic blend of something old & something new. Antiques, collectibles, retro, jewellery, souvenirs and many unique items. Specialty award-winning gourmet food products.

Ask about our personalized shopping service. Open 7 days a week.

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DEAL$ FOR DOLLAR$ 16 Centre Street, Gimli - 642-9183

Souvenirs, Gifts, Toys, Housewares Fishing Supplies, Fireworks, Novelties Great Beach Supplies

*

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DOLLAR STORE

Mon - Fri 9:30 am - 8 pm Sat 9:30 am - 6 pm Sun 12 noon - 5 pm

open 7 days a week July & August Mon - Sat 9:30 am - 9 pm Sun 12 noon - 5 pm 8 ON MAP, PAGE 21

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Blue Rooster GrafficWear Plaza Mall, Wpg Beach / 389-5086 Funky comfort-wear for all ages. Hats, t-shirts, bathing suits, sarongs, activewear. Gifts, cards and custom printed clothing.

Cocoa Bella Chocolatier 68A Centre Plaza Gimli / 642-7940 Bringing old world chocolates to a new age world! Fresh fudge, Belgian chocolates, nuts/brittles, chocolate dipped fruit, frozen delights, and gourmet apples. A chocolate lovers dream!

Deals For Dollars 16 Centre Street, Gimli / 642-9183 Stop in and meet the friendly staff and browse through one of the Interlake’s

best dollar stores. Housewares, beauty, giftware, stationery, toys, fishing gear and beach accessory departments. Join their 55+ club. Open every day.

Diamond Beach/Gimli Florist 77E First Avenue, Gimli / 642-8001 An attractive boutique featuring unique jewellery, diamonds, quality giftware and fresh flowers. In the Lakeview Resort.

Fishfly Gallery / 389-5661 18 Main St., Winnipeg Beach Come visit Fishfly on the Boardwalk – an oasis of creativity & talent showcasing works by prairie artisans in wood, fibre, jewellery, pottery, glass, metal and framed art.

Fishlips Hemp Company 33 Centre Street, Gimli / 642-7050 Your only earth friendly hemp store!

We offer hemp clothing, body-care, crafts and hemp food like Hemp Heartz.

Come in and check us out! Directly supporting the transition to a healthier community, lake & planet. Fair Trade products now available.

Helma Rogge Rehders Fine Art Studio 247 Laurel Ave, Wpg Beach / 389-5633 This gallery features a collection of original artwork by talented local artists.

Functional pottery, glassworks, photography, paintings, including gallery owner Helma Rogge Rehders’ acrylic landscapes and bird paintings. (Helma signs her art work–– H.RogueRaiders).

H.P. Tergesen & Sons 82-1st Avenue, Gimli / 642-5958 A Gimli landmark since 1899. An

Icelandic Festival Gift Shops 3 Centre Street, Gimli / 642-7305 & Waterfront Centre, Gimli / 642-7417 Great gifts & souvenirs. Viking helmets and headbands, plastic swords, Icelandic flags and windsocks, adult and kids’ Icelandic Festival clothing, plus hats, mugs, and so much more.

Prices from $2–$175. Open daily 10 am-4 pm (July/August). Call ahead for September thru June for store hours.

Johnson’s 76 Centre Street, Gimli / 642-4010 Easy lifestyle clothing & footwear for men, women and children at your Cottage Country Department Store.

Newly-expanded ladieswear dept.

Exclusive to Johnson’s– funky, fashionable Lovergirl t-shirts. Bedding, linens, housewares & gifts make this a complete Gimli shopping experience..

Koma Heim Trading / 642-8725 77 1/2 Second Avenue, Gimli Adventure on 2nd Avenue…Exotic or rustic, elegant or fun – home furnishings and accents that will enhance your home and reflect your unique style. From armoires to antique benches, masks to mirrors and beautiful hand-crafted items from the Interlake to India. Stop in & discover the possibilities.

Sandstone Gift & Home Lakeview Resort, Gimli / 642-9020 They have a reputation for quality and superb service. Fabulous clothes, unique gifts, art, contemporary kitchenware and garden accessories.

Come and explore. Summer hours: Sunday - Wednesday 10 am-6 pm; Thursday - Saturday 10am - 8 pm.

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Sandy Hook Gardens / 389-3872 1/4 mi east of Hwy #8 on PTH 519 Custom landscaping service available.

Annuals, hanging baskets, perennials, shrubs, large selection of bedding plants. Growing Since 1985!

Solmundson’s Greenhouse Hwy #229, Wpg Beach / 389-3016 Large selection of basket stuffers, annuals, perennials, herbs, shrubs, hanging baskets, planters. 3 1/2 miles west of Winnipeg Beach on Hwy 229.

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Taylor Pharmacy 50 Centre Street, Gimli / 642-7470 For all your health needs this summer.

Allergy relief, first aid, sun care, cosmetics, beach toys, magazines & greeting cards. Friendly service.

The Viking’s Purse, New Iceland Heritage Museum Gift Shop Waterfront Centre / 642-4001 Imported giftware, clothing, music and books from Iceland. Crafts and fine art by local artisans and an array of unique souvenirs. Open daily.

A ARTIST COL OB LE T C NI

DERNE MUS MO E VE TI

Interlake Garden Centre Hwy#9 Winnipeg Beach / 389-3200 Come see what you’ve been missing!

Annuals, perennials, shrubs, herbs, air plants hanging baskets, planters, topsoil and gardening supplies. Lawn & garden services. www.interlakegardencenter.ca

Mermaid’s Kiss Gallery 85-4th Avenue, Gimli / 642-7453 Fine art including pottery, raku, fibre, glass & paintings by well-known Manitoba artists. Handmade lampwork glass jewellery by Gallery owner Linda Vermeulen. Custom picture framing & photo restoration available. Open Thurthru Mon. Tue & Wed by appointment. www.mermaidskissgallery.com

ENTIC ART BY TH M U A A

eclectic collection of clothing, footwear, books and gifts in a turn-of-the-century family store. Huge selection of the most fashionable mens’ and womens' apparel, shoes, beachwear, swimwear, plus great accessories, fabulous gifts, and a large book section. Open everyday.

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Family Hair Design Pam Natalie Laura Walk-Ins Quantum Hair Products

email bayside@mts.net

642-4310

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Welcome!

Open 7 Days a Week JULY & AUGUST Open til 8 pm

4 ON MAP, PAGE 21 In the Lakeview Resort, Gimli

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84-6th Avenue - Gimli

642-HAIR (4247)

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Autumnwood Motel & RV Resort Gimli Park Road, Gimli / Call 642-8835. (Formerly Gimli Trailer Park).

A short walk to town and Gimli Beach. 18 guest rooms, with kitchenette or fridge.

Cable TV & AC. Some units with freshwater jet tubs. Full service RV sites. 30 new fully serviced overnight R.V. sites & seasonal R.V sites. Shower house and laundromat. Daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal sites. Owners of the new 8-lane, licensed Gimli Bowling Centre, 93-6th Avenue, Gimli. Enjoy your stay.

Biscuit Harbour Resort 125 km north of Gimli - Follow Hwy 8 to PR234 / Call Toll Free 1-888-536-5353

Beautiful views of Lake Winnipeg from our Lakefront Cabins and Harbourview Rooms. Enjoy lunch on our outdoor decks. Hot tubs, fireplaces, hiking trails, sight-seeing, limestone caves, wildlife. Open year-round. Stay three days and get your 4th night free!

“For those who like a little luxury with their wilderness.”

Fraserwood Tourist Hotel Hwy 231 & Hwy 7, Fraserwood / Call 643-5304.

Nine miles west of Gimli. Four private rooms, with colour TV and double beds.

Plus, four rooms with shared washroom, and TV in all rooms. Starting at $25 a night! Morel’s Café next door. Club 231 bar with pool tables & VLT’s also next door. Special entertainment events montly.

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Traditional Chinese dishes prepared to perfection by our expert Chinese Chefs.

Reservations recommended.

TAKE-OUT is also available, and is conveniently located next to the Cold Beer Store.

& 642-5170 Take-Out Reservations Reservations

Also at the “Viking”...

Cold Beer Store located at the back of the Viking Inn. Open daily including Sunday.

Meeting Facilities for up to 40 people. ATM Cash Machine.

At the Corner of Hwy #9 & Centre Street in GIMLI, MB.

642-5168 642-4778 fax bpi1@mts.net

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Our 21 spacious rooms offer air-conditioning, colour T.V., coffee-maker and a small fridge. When in Gimli, let the Viking Inn be your “home away from home”.

The “Two Friends” Nite Club features: VLT’s, a large dance floor, a state-of-the-art sound system, two pool tables, six wall-mounted, big screen T.V.’s, and an outside seasonal deck.

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Hecla Oasis Resort Spa | Conference | Golf 45 mins. north of Gimli - Follow Hwy 8 past Riverton Call 1-800-267-6700 Email info@heclaoasis.com Luxury, health and relaxation are yours to experience. Enjoy our 90 guest rooms, 3 restaurants, deluxe vacation villas, indoor and outdoor water park, full service day spa, conference and special event facilities. 18-hole championship golf course, Biologist-lead eco-tours and outdoor recreational programs. Health and wellness centre plus pet spa. All this set on the tranquil shores of Lake Winnipeg.

Lakeview Resort 10 Centre Street, Gimli / Call 642-8565 or 1-877-355-3500.

Beachfront Resort and Conference Centre offering suites and luxury vacation suites with fabulous views of Lake Winnipeg and the harbourfront, indoor & outdoor pools, sauna & whirlpool, fitness room. Enjoy a meal at Seagull’s Restaurant then relax in our new Lounge. Video games room, free movies, cable TV and DVDs, banquet/meeting space, plus easy access to shops and boutiques offering thousands of unique and interesting items.

Lone Oak Motel & Beach Resort 46 Arundel St., Winnipeg Beach / Call 389-2818 14 modern rooms, kitchenettes, suites. Daily rates $65 - $95. Book six days and get your 7th day free! Great family atmosphere. Beautiful park-like courtyard, complimentary gas BBQs, free firewood & movies. We’re pet friendly. Just a few minutes walk to the beach. Your hosts: Alanna & Neil Bradley.

Spruce Sands R.V. Resort Spruce Bay Road, Arnes Call 642-5671 or 1-866-642-5671 315 full-service RV–5th whee l sites in a lovely setting, right next to Lake Winnipeg. Firewood available. Half mile of sandy beach. Coffee shop, bakeshop and convenience store with movie rentals and Laundromat. ATM machine available on site. Large playground and putting green on site. Daily, weekly, monthly and seasonal rates.

Viking Inn / Call 642-5168 Hwy 9 & Centre Street, Gimli A short walk to Gimli shops and our great beaches. 21 air-conditioned rooms, with colour TV, fridge and coffee maker. Gordon Lee’s Chinese Dining and Take-out. Visit “Two Friends” Nite club: VLT’s, dance floor, pool tables and deck. Entertainment and music! Open Sundays. Beer Store. Meeting facilities. ATM cash machine.

Turn to Page 33 for Nite Life listings...

Privately situated on a beautifully treed 50 acre campground, just a short walk from the sandy shores of Lake Winnipeg.

• • • • • • •

Year Round Motel

• 18 Guest Rooms • Kitchenettes • 2-Person Freshwater Jet Tubs

8 Lanes Automatic Scoring Glow Bowling Leagues & Open Bowling Group Bookings Bingo Bowl Licensed Premises

Seasonal RV Park

• New Full Service Sites • Seasonal Sites & R V Hookups • Showerhouse & Laundromat • Sewage Disposal

93-6th Avenue, GIMLI 23 ON MAP, PAGE 20

642-8787

Next to Rotary Towers Adrian & Debbie Zelenitsky

31 ON MAP, PAGE 20 Formerly Gimli Trailer Park

GIMLI PARK ROAD SOUTH

Adrian & Debbie Zelenitsky

Phone (204) 642-8835

www.autumnwoodresort.com

H2O Summer 2007 31

Camouflaged within their natural surroundings, this golden brown mushroom is a close cousin to a poisonous species, with its narrow, deep brown wrinkled skirt flowing delicately over its light, cream coloured stalk. However, once familiar with it, even a child can partici-

carry their own lore. More than once, an excited, breathless local has burst into my house with tales of giant mushroom garden discoveries. Mushrooms the size of small children, gardens of them, just waiting to be plucked, will, however, sadly go to waste, as the secret locales are

written and illustrated by Holly Bochurka

T

wenty years ago, this little farm gal from southern Manitoba was introduced to the annual Interlake fungi cult of spring. An old diesel Oldsmobile was ditched in the middle of nowhere, somewhere in Sandy Hook, and the adventure from this side of barbed wire fences, into live cow pastures, began. With one eye on the bull grazing a hundred feet away, and the other frantically scanning the ground for the protruding heads of brown fungi, everything from eyeglasses to loose change was deposited in the bushes of that Promised Land.

Splashing through puddles and crawling on underbellies searching for

the ultimate Ukrainian delicacy–the prince of mushrooms, the pride of the Interlake–the ambrosial Morel, life lessons on foraging were quickly learned by myself and my children.

Never having scavenged for food before, I naively envisioned picking daisies and frolicking with tame deer.

This was before I realized how difficult it was to spot the tiny brown projections poking shyly out from under moss covered logs. I discovered my first mushroom bloom nestled between thin blades of prairie grasses and hidden poison ivy sprouts. I would later learn that mushroom gardens also enjoy being in the company of carnivorous parasite nests.

The Sands Beach Cafe and Bake Shop Visit us beachside for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Enjoy a picnic on the beach or relax in our air-conditioned lakefront cafe.

Join us for a meal, a snack, or try one of our freshly baked pastries.

If ice cream is your passion, we have more than 16 flavours of hard ice cream.

It’s great between the lakes where life is always a beach!

Phone (204) 5 ON MAP, PAGE 17

642-5671 www.sprucesands.ca

pate in the harvest. In fact, my four children have all been involved in the “pick” from a very early age, but not before being sworn to secrecy and blindfolded, lest the location of our secret mushroom gardens be divulged.

Even though children don’t make great secret-keepers, they do make good mushroom-pickers. Perhaps this is because they are closer to the ground, but, more likely, it is because finding the mushrooms quickly is a survival tactic to get out of the bush, dry their feet, and pluck off dozens of blood sucking wood ticks. Unfortunately, wood tick season coincides precisely with Morel mushroom picking season.

The competition for this delicacy is Olympian in this little lakeside town.

And the talk is even bigger. One cannot go down to the local store without noticing a comrade picker, proudly swinging their bucket of mushrooms for all to see.

The Morel mushrooms are often referred to as ‘Smorzee’, named after the Ukrainian gravy into which they are added.

In especially successful years, enthusiasts will tote a 5 gallon pail of the popular fungi for days, just to drive their neighbors crazy. Even when stalked, then plied with whiskey in efforts to reveal his ‘garden’, he remains stubbornly silent.

Just as fishing fables brag about the ‘big one that got away’, Morel mushrooms

3 ON MAP, PAGE 21

32 H2O Summer 2007

always too well hidden. However, ask this guy where this garden is, and his face becomes perplexed, his articulate memory suddenly gone.

For almost twenty years, the quest for Morel mushrooms has been a part of our family’s spring ritual. In spite of mosquitoes, wood tick nests, and rain, this has been one of life’s most enriching moments. The exhilaration as each mushroom is unearthed is akin to finding a secret treasure.

The popular Morel mushrooms are prized in Christmas and Easter festivities, prepared into delicious side dishes, or stir fried with butter, but most often cooked into gravy with cream and garlic. They can be successfully frozen or dried for later use, retaining their strong pungent flavour. The Peepynky mushrooms are also found in this area, however, that ritual takes place in the fall.

If you are interested in mushroom reaping, search out your own wild gardens, (or stalk your Smorzee laden neighbors.) Look for older cow pastures with woodland, (complete with abandoned vehicle nearby). Tip: Morel mushrooms grow profusely on grounds that have been previously burnt.

For more information on mushrooms, you can contact ‘The Mushroom Man’–Ken Fosty at the Manitoba Forestry Association, at kfosty@gourmetmushrooms.ca or kfosty@mts.net Or, call (204) 453-3182.

22 ON MAP, PAGE 20

Cheryl & Kevin St. Martin Owners and Managers 30 ON MAP, PAGE 20

I nsurance B rokers A ssociation M anitoba

of

AUTO • CONDOMINIUMS • HOME • BOATS • COTTAGES MOBILE HOMES • BLUE CROSS • HEALTH • DENTAL • LIFE HAIL • TRAVEL • INCOME PROTECTION • FARM • COMMERCIAL

PROUD

24 ON MAP, PAGE 20

2 ON MAP, PAGE 16

642-8591

389-4883

61 A Centre St. GIMLI

54 Main St., WINNIPEG BEACH

SPONSORS IN OUR COMMUNITY

55 CENTRE ST. GIMLI 204-642-7447 OPEN 8:30 am - 8:00 pm Monday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Sundays & Holidays

SUPER FRESH SUPER SERVICE

“SUPER A”

Club 231 - Fraserwood Hotel Main Street, Fraserwood / 643-5304 A relaxing atmosphere and a great place to meet your friends for a cool one. Free Stage Jamboree every third Saturday. Karaoke every first Friday night. Enjoy our pool tables – free pool every Wed. & Sun. VLT’s, TV, and beer vendor. 35¢ Wing Night every Thur. & Sat. Bud spud & steak night on fridays.

Hecla Oasis Resort 45 mins. north of Gimli Call 1-800-267-6700 After a day on the links or on the trails, come in for a nightcap after a dip in the spa pool. A perfect ending for the perfect day.

Pizza Nite on the Farm - at Integrity Foods - 10 km north of Riverton Call 378-2887 Enjoy wood-fired pizza, made fresh.

June & Sept - Fridays only. July - Sept (long weekend) Fri & Sat. See our ad for coupon offer. Organic Bakery.

Rollercoaster Lounge at Niakwa Family Restaurant Hwy. 9, Wpg Beach / 389-2295 We have a big screen T.V., pool table and VLTs. Seagull’s Sports Lounge, Lakeview Resort 10 Centre St., Gimli / 642-4145 Enjoy our full service Lounge, VLT’s, & satellite TV. We have the best view in town - sit outside on our licensed deck overlooking Gimli’s picturesque Harbour.

“Two Friends” Nite Club Viking Inn, Hwy 9 & Centre St., Gimli / 642-5168 Dance floor, pool tables and deck.

Entertainment, Karaoke, and music!

Open Sundays. Beer Store. ATM. Whitecaps Lounge 72-1st Avenue, Gimli / 642-9735 Food service, VLT’s satellite TV. A friendly place to meet.

H2O Summer 2007 33

W

hat strikes you most forcibly in speaking with him is his dedication.

Rene Granger is sitting in the Gimli Animal Shelter, one cat in his arms and another prowling restlessly around his feet. Bear, the resident dog, sits at my feet and stares expectantly at me until I pet him. A staff member and a volunteer move around the shelter, preparing the dogs for their daily walk, feeding the cats, cleaning the animals’ sleeping quarters.

The Gimli Animal Shelter came into being in 2001, the brainchild of a group of concerned citizens spearheaded by Granger himself. Before that, strays were kept for the specified number of days and were then humanely euthanized.

The first shelter was in a converted boiler room with little space, but Granger looks back on it fondly, because from that location new homes were found for 200 animals. The present building was constructed in 2005

by Granger himself.

The Shelter now employs three staff members in addition to Granger, and costs about $25,000 a year to operate. This includes fuel, internet, a commercial phone line and high-quality pet food. Granger believes in proper, consistent nutrition to ensure healthy animals. All animals are checked by a vet, dewormed, vaccinated, and spayed or neutered; they are

20 ON MAP PAGE 17

34

H2O Summer 2007

Consider the animals Milton

Fiona

Easy

kept until they are adopted. Some of this is covered by the adoption fee, but Granger reports that they “barely break even” on most animals, especially those requiring extra treatment or medication.

As well as the occasionally hazardous and often thankless task of apprehending stray animals, Granger undertakes school visits several times a year. He talks to the young people about pet care, the responsibility of ownership, the necessity of spaying or neutering and about combating animal cruelty.

He also visits to the Betel Home with some of his liveliest animals. Bear is a special favourite with the residents and Granger says that there are few things more gratifying than Bear jumping up on the bed with someone who was previously unresponsive, and seeing a hand creep out from beneath the blankets to pet the dog.

Granger has been on call twentyfour hours a day, seven days a week, year round for twelve years. He loves his job and is constantly amazed that a relatively small community such as Gimli can support its own animal shelter, one of only a handful

throughout rural Manitoba. He attributes it to the heart of the community, to those who donate funds, those who volunteer their time, and those who adopt the animals. Operating costs and ongoing care of the animals are funded largely by donations.

The Shelter has saved 500 animals from euthanasia and last year fed 5000 meals to the homeless – the strays, the injured and the outcast.

The outstanding need now, if the shelter is to continue to do this necessary work, is for monetary donations.

Visit the website at www.gimlianimalshelter.com to learn more, to adopt a pet, or to find out how to donate.

“Imagine how you would feel if you were a dog and no-one wanted you? Where would you go?”asks Granger.

S

imultaneously, as this year’s H2O Guide was being prepared, we were also working hard on a project which is designed to enhance the H2O Guide experience for both readers and advertisers. The project is our recently launched website which has been garnering very positive response.

Expertly designed by Norm Shewchuk and Chris Gauthier of Elektrus Communications Technology Company, the website offers special interactive features that will assist visitors in navigating their way through the Gimli and Beaches communities.

The address is www.h2oguide.ca once there, click on the maps and start having some fun. Every advertiser and most of the attractions and services in the Town of Gimli, the Town of Winnipeg Beach and the R.M. of Gimli who appear in the printed version of the H2O Guide, can be located with

our ubiquitous numbered red location dots.

When your cursor hovers over each location an information box pops up with all the essential contact information, along with live links to those businesses who host their own websites. For both readers and advertisers, this enables instant connections - and that’s a good thing.

We are also working on a categorized list of advertisers, along with feature stories plus an archive of past stories. Each season our current rates and deadline dates will also be posted for downloading. Check out our photo gallery featuring images from in and around the Interlake area. A listing of events will also be included that will be available year round.

So, hop on board and let H2O navigate you toward your Interlake destinations. And, be sure to give us your feedback through our contact page.

30 ON MAP, PAGE 20

lp He

♥ ♥ ♥

! ing You Keep Your Lov ed O n e s H e a l t h y

Lisa Taylor, DVM Kristine Torske, DVM, DVSc Wendy Slezak, DVM

70 Centre St. GIMLI

642-8398 9 ON MAP, PAGE 17

25 ON MAP, PAGE 20

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Complete Physical Exams Vaccinations Microchip Implants Heartworm Testing Orthopedics Complete In-House Laboratory Diagnostic Imaging (X-Ray & Ultrasound) ECG & Blood Pressure Monitoring Pet Dentals Cancer Consultations House Calls Large Animal Farm Calls

14 ON MAP, PAGE 17 21 ON MAP, PAGE 17

H2O Summer 2007 35

by Andy Blicq

L

ike all great adventures, this one is more about the journey than the destination. It begins in June of 1997, at the corner of Fourth Avenue and Keenora Street, in the heart of Gimli. It ends…well; it likely won’t ever end as long as there is one more wall that needs paint, or one more new idea to improve our little corner of paradise.

Paradise is the right word to describe our cottage, although it didn’t start out that way. On that first day, when we turned the antique key to our new place, it was like stepping into the past…and into a building that looked like it didn’t have much of a future. Except for one small addition and some minor improvements, number 50 – 4th Avenue had changed little since skilled Icelandic carpenters pounded it together around 1919.

Our friends and family were polite.

“It has possibilities” and “it looks like a great project,” they said, when they dropped by to see our latest adventure in real estate. We knew what they were thinking. Why would they leave their comfortable little place in Loni Beach for this dump? The truth is, we were asking ourselves the same question.

We had spent 10 happy years fixing up a cheerful little shack in the historic Loni Beach cottage development. It was a great summer getaway, but the possibilities for adding on and fixing it up were pretty limited. The new place had a 30-foot veranda, it was a short walk to the beach and shops and Gimli was showing so much promise as a fun place to spend our summers and eventually retire.

As we mourned the loss of our old shack that first day and gloomily swept up and tossed piles of junk onto the back lawn we made a surprising discovery. Under a board, in the corner of the kitchen, either lost or placed there 75 years ago, was a 1921-penny. That penny has become a keepsake and a symbol, because – like the building – it is something found and saved.

And that penny would become the first of our many discoveries. Discoveries about

36

H2O Summer 2007

strengths and skills we didn’t know we had and the power of an old building to bring a community’s history to life.

As those first weeks and months passed and we debated about what to do with our ‘project’, we began to hear about how our place was a fixture in the memories of local people. It was the raspberry drops that came up most often. And the affectionate memories of a widow named Pearl Glendorah, who spent her summers there long

before us and who dispensed candies to the local kids who tapped on the screen door in search of treats on a hot summer afternoon.

And neighbours told us the story about the piano - a battered old stand-up beauty that was left behind in the corner of the centre room, along with a chipped bench containing sheet music dating back to the 19th century.

So the story goes, when there was party in need of music somewhere in town, a crowd of burly fisherman would show up to carry the piano away for the night, with Pearl’s blessing. No one in our family plays the piano and space was at a premium, so we decided to give it to friends who live in town. In keeping with tradition, it was moved with the help of our neighbour, Bruce Benson, and his brothers-in law, all of them burly fishermen, or ‘fishers’ as we’re now told to call them.

The 30-ft veranda extends the summer living space.

Amazingly, the workings of the piano were found to be in excellent condition, despite the fact that it had over-wintered for decades in an unheated building. Today, it’s giving pleasure to a new generation, when friends gather on music nights in Rick and Heather Lair’s living room.

We think Pearl Glendorah would be pleased.

While doing research at the Manitoba Archives, I came across a photograph of our cottage, taken from the roof of the school around 1920, looking much as it does today. Visible behind it are marsh and bush for as far as the eye can see.

As the years go by, there are fewer of these old cottages left. Many have been renovated out of recognition, or replaced by permanent homes.

Ours nearly went that way. One contractor we consulted tore a piece of rotten drip rail off the front corner and announced that we would be better off paying him to build us a new place.

But we got better advice from someone with a different world view. The late Leo Kristjanson is fondly remembered for being instrumental in saving Gimli’s historic Old Public School and turning the old fish sheds on the harbour into a Visitors’ Centre. He took one look and declared that our old girl had good bones, which we soon discovered, were as solid as steel.

Most of the cottages built around the time of The Great War were constructed with west coast Douglas Fir. After eight decades of drying and hardening, nails bend under the hammer. That was just the first problem.

The cottage sat on concrete pads and posts and over the years some had sunk and settled.

The wiring was out of date, the plumbing, pretty basic. A small addition was built in the ‘60s to accommodate a sink and a toilet when water and sewer came to town, but the shower was attached to an outside wall, with no enclosure.

We decided that the neighbours would prefer to not watch us scrubbing down our 40-something carcasses.

In 1998 a contractor raised the building, leveled it and poured a concrete footing. We allowed for a small addition to include a utility room, a new bathroom and, to the relief our neighbours, an indoor shower.

At the centre of our renovation plans was a commitment to maintain the cottage, as much ...continued on page 38

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2 ON MAP, PAGE 17

Hours: 9 am - 6 pm Tuesday to Saturday

376-5242

E-mail: smittysfurniture@mts.net Toll Free: 1-800-361-4156 Fax: 376-5577

H2O Summer 2007 37

...continued from page 36

as possible, as it was in 1921 and to use recycled materials, appropriate to the building’s history.

‘New’ Douglas Fir windows to replace rotting old ones were rescued from a house on Kingston Row in Winnipeg. Two more ‘Douglas Fir’ rescues helped with the finishing. Clear tongue and grove interior siding was salvaged from two vintage Gimli cottages and installed in our place.

Today, number 50-4th Avenue’s future looks secure. After 10 years of hard work, we’ve finished insulating; last year we heated it through the winter for the first time.

Neighbours say they’re pleased to see Christmas lights illuminate what has always been a dark corner of town in winter.

There have been many problems to overcome, there’s still more work to do,

and as with any old building. But, we’re happy to do it all because the long journey through the renovation has brought us great pleasure and pride. We’ve done the work together and it’s made us closer as a couple and a family.

Back in 1997, as the keys passed from the previous owners to us, Pearl Glendorah’s son, stared up at the towering evergreens in the yard and told us, wistfully, that he had planted them as a young man, 50 years ago. Time and change, as they say, wait for no person.

And so it seems to us now that owning an old place that’s worth saving is a bit like sailing a wooden ship toward an unknown horizon. You enjoy the voyage and work hard to keep her shipshape until the time comes for a new ‘crew’ to take over and begin another great journey to a destination of their own making.

SURVEYORS

21 ON MAP, PAGE 17

15 ON MAP, PAGE 21

BUYING PROPERTY? HAVE IT SURVEYED FIRST. Why do I need a survey? To determine the extent of the land that you are buying and to protect

yourself from inheriting problems related to building encroachments and zoning violations.

Do I get survey pins with my survey? Upon request. There is a financial saving to be gained by having pins installed when the buildings are located. Consult a Land Surveyor before your lawyer orders your survey.

Do I need title insurance to insure my title? No. By law, the Winnipeg Land Titles Office must assure that your title is valid. Furthermore, title insurance will not tell you where your boundaries are.

Should I accept a copy of an old survey? No. Buildings, zoning laws & survey standards are subject to change. Unauthorized copies may have been illegally altered. Copyright violation can result in financial penalty.

Who can prepare a “survey”? Under the Land Surveyor’s Act, only a Qualified Manitoba Land Surveyor is authorized to conduct a land survey.

ISAAC & DENCHUK MANITOBA LAND SURVEYORS THE INTERLAKE, THE LAKE WINNIPEG Gimli Office: 642-5341 SERVING BEACHES AND THE TRIPLE “S” REGION

Open Wednesdays, May 1 - Oct 31)

Selkirk Office: 785-2924

(SELKIRK - ST. ANDREWS - ST. CLEMENTS).

Toll Free: 1-800-325-5963

Interlake Heating & Ventilation Co. Ltd. is a family-run business that proudly continues to offer quality products, installation and unparalled service. Photo, from left to right: Boyd, Brian, Marcie, Jason, Mel, Ken, Eric and Gerald. Missing from photo: Bill, Sharon, James and Darren.

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2 ON MAP, PAGE 17

38

H2O Summer 2007

interlakeheating@mts.net

500 RIVER ROAD, ARBORG, MB

204-376-5034

32 ON MAP, PAGE 20

H2O Summer 2007 39

The H2O Guide is a tabloid sized paper that folds (here) into a magazine size for convenience.

27 ON MAP, PAGE 20