dawson trail dispatch may 2016

On the second weekend of April, thirty-eight athletes fromLorette travelled to Niagara Falls to compete in the 2016National Championships. On the senior level, the Lorette Scorpions Senior “StrikeForce” cheerleading team ended the weekend with the firstplace trophy for their division, as well as “Grand Champ”honours for best overall score in their entire level. The teamachieved the second-highest score of the entire competition. The squad had zero deductions for both performances. Thefirst performance was worth 30% of their total score and thesecond performance as worth 70% of their total score. They

Cheer Squad Wins Bigin Niagara Falls

also place 2nd for the entire competition of 360 teams. Theonly team with a higher percentage of perfections was theamazing “Great White Sharks”. Not to be outdone, the junior level, “Black Venom” teamplaced third overall in their division. Team member CambreeRigaux took first place with her solo routine. The Cheer Evolution National Championships are a 3-daycompetition, held annually in Niagara Falls, Ontario. It is thelargest cheer competition in Canada, with over 7,000 athletescompeting in 365 teams from across the country. At Nationals, each team performs their routine twice, once

The Scorpions Elite Junior 3 “Black Venom” cheer team placed third atNationals in Niagara Falls at the beginning of the month.

Scorpions Senior “Strike Force” team won the first place trophy at Nationals in Niagara Falls at the beginning of the month.

each on Saturday and Sunday, with their final scorecalculated based on a weighted average of both scores. The Scorpions Elite Cheer is a cheerleading programowned by Tiffany and Andrew Recksiedler and designedfor athletes of all ages in southeastern Manitoba.

By Marianne Curtis

Every five years Statistics Canada conducts anational census of population and households withthe next one on May 10. In preparation several municipalities and the Cityof Steinbach are working together to encourageeveryone to participate. Steinbach Mayor ChrisGoertzen explained why participation is needed.“The census numbers determine the amount ofprovincial and federal funding our communitiesreceive,” said Goertzen. “With everyone’sparticipation, we can maximize our federal andprovincial support and ensure the continuance andthe creation of first-rate programs and projects inour communities.” The census includes every person living inCanada as well as Canadians who are abroad.When completing a questionnaire, respondentsprovide important information that is used to makedecisions for neighbourhoods, communities,provinces and the country.

ResidentsEncouraged toParticipate in

Census

Continued on page 3

May 2016 Dawson Trail DispatchCelebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities!2

Dawson Trail Dispatch May 2016Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Our Communities! 3

Reeve Stan Toews of the RM of Hanover encourages everyone to becounted. “A census is very important to a local government because weget some funding from the provincial government and it is all based on percapita,” Toews noted. “Since 2011 the dollars that we lost for every personnot filling out the census was $1,200 over a five year period.” For every person ultimately missed by the Census, Manitoba loses $46,000in federal transfer payments over five years. Communities depend on census information when planning for newschools, roads, waterworks, public transit, and police and fire services.Town planners use census information on households and families toplan current and future housing needs, health care, schools and daycarecentres. Population estimates obtained from the census are used to allocatetransfer payments from the federal government to the provinces andterritories and from the provinces to municipalities. As a decennial census,data from the 2016 Census will also be used to determine the distributionand number of Members of Parliament. Some changes have been included for Census 2016. Along with theshort form questionnaire, the long form is back, Statistics Canada hasremoved questions related to income and will instead use informationalready available from the Canada Revenue and the census has beentranslated into 11 languages. Once residents receive their census package, the questionnaire can becompleted online or on paper. The penalty for not completing the censuscan be a $500 fine or up to three months in jail, or both.

Census continued...Continued from page 1

By Marianne Curtis

On April 19, the entire region saw aflood of blue after Kelvin Goertzen(Steinbach), Dennis Smook (LaVerendrye), Cliff Graydon (Emerson),Shannon Martins (Morris) were allre-elected. The newcomer to the tableis Bob Lagasse, who was elected inDawson Trail. After sixteen years in theopposition, Goertzen is lookingforward to being part of a majoritygovernment. “During the campaign,they told me at their doors that theywant a government that will keeptaxes low, invest in strategicinfrastructure and reduce the deficitand debt over time, so there is lessof a burden left to their kids andgrandkids,” stated Goertzen. “I’mexcited about working toward thosegoals with all the residents of theconstituency.” Goertzen, who has served in

Tory Blue Floods Southeast

Newly elected Dawson Trail MLA Bob Lagasse is eagerly waiting to be sworn inso he can get down to work.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

several shadow cabinet positions,says it is too early to speculate on ifhe will gain a cabinet posting. “ThePremier will make those decisions.I’m not going to worry about it. I’mnot going to think about it. I’m goingto have a good day with my familytomorrow and we’ll see what thefuture brings after that,” saidGoertzen. After spending two terms inopposition, Graydon says he ishumbled that voters returned him tooffice for a third consecutive term.“I am looking forward to being partof the government that will makeManitoba a better place,” he added.“The first thing we are going to dois get rid of the vote tax; then we aregoing to work hard.” La Verendrye representativeSmook who was also reelected for asecond term, is looking for anopportunity to bring several keyissues from his area to the provincial

table now that he is part of thegoverning body. “The NDPGovernment did not give muchattention to our issues during thelast term. One of the key is cell phoneservice in southeastern Manitoba.It has a lot to do with safety and ithas a lot to do with economicdevelopment,” Smook says. “I willalso be looking at reopening theEmergency Room at the VitaHospital. Three different HealthMinisters made three promises thatthe ER would re-open and so far, ithas not.” Dawson Trail’s rookie MLA,Lagasse is looking forward togetting down to work. “As part of amajority government, we are goingto accomplish a lot of things, notonly in the area but for the entireprovince,” said Lagasse. “I am hereto work hard, not only for DawsonTrail, but for everyone.” The newly elected government meton April 27 for their first caucusmeeting. Brian Pallister and hisgovernment, cabinet and deputyministers will be sworn into office onMay 3. With 40 of 57 legislatureseats, the new PC caucus is one ofthe largest in Manitoba’s history. Pallister said all his elected MLAs

would be involved in the newgovernment. “There’s lots and lotsof work to do. There’ll be lots ofopportunities for people tocontribute,” he told reporters. Pallister said his government

will table a budget a few weeks afterthe throne speech, but he would notcommit to a specific date. The rest of the caucus will beofficially sworn in on May 11.


The Dawson Trail Dispatch is a monthly newspaperdistributed free of charge to

50 Southeastern Manitoba communities.Published by: One One Consultants Inc.

Box 308, Richer, MB R0E 1S0 Phone: (204) 422-8548 Fax: (204) 422-9768

Dan Guetre, Managing EditorOne One Consultants Inc., Publisher

News Writers: Marianne Curtis and Dan GuetreColumnists: Lee Guetre, Peter Friesen,

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Copy Editing: Monica GuetreAdvertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre

For Advertising Call:Phone: (204) 422-8548

Fax: (204) 422-9768Email: [email protected]

Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.

Subscriptions: $29.95 annually plus GST for Canadian Subscriptions.$52.95 annually for International Subscriptions

Canada Post AgreementNumber 42079020

Never in Manitoba history have we seen a political victory of thismagnitude. Again, it was nice to see negative advertising relegated to thetrash heap of history. Recent history of Canadian elections Provincial or Federal has shownthat good communication wins, negative diatribe looses. This is a welcome turn of events, nasty politics are soAmerican and I’m glad they are not working in Canada. Come to think of it, if we were to cut down the electionbudgets, spending money wisely would become a necessary reality. What came out in this campaign wasPremier elect Pallister was the communicator and Salinger and company were making noise but not communicatingin an adult fashion. The defeated government had of late inherited serious flaws. First, the Hydro price tag and its associatedpower lines. The cost of it all in the billions was and is still something I would like to see discussed and clarifiedin a mature fashion. It always struck me as odd that an all season road would be built on the east side of LakeWinnipeg. So why can’t an easement accommodate the road and a transmission line. Perhaps this United Nationhoped for designation didn’t pan out and there is not much hope of the decision being altered. Why flog a deadhorse? Was this to be a feather in somebody’s fedora and at the cost of this endeavour in the billions we canonly shudder in disbelief. The next subject is the Trans Canada Hwy east upgrade. For all businesses established adjacent to this majorartery we would like to know the changes, which could affect our businesses, as I am also sure that all theemployees working at these establishments would also have more than a passing interest in the immediatefuture of their employment. It would also be educational to calculate the total taxes paid to the Government ofManitoba by these same businesses and their employees. We are all part of the local and Manitoba economy,we first need to be vibrant to pay for these government expenditures. Taxes still pay for everything thereforedialogue with the taxpayer seems prudent. The third problem with the previous government was its internal squabbling. It couldn’t communicate to itselfnever mind the voting clients. That is a sure recipe for voting against a government. Furthermore, after eightyears in office, best before date is usually past and some sort of renewal is imperative. Internal rebellion is notit. Again congratulations on a job well done, next is adult communications, we’ve been waiting a long time.

On April 19, Manitobans voted for a new government and a brighterfuture for Manitoba. After several years of watching NDP infightingwhile the debt grew larger and important services declined, Manitobanssaw the need for a change. The majority government that was given to the ProgressiveConservative Party is the largest in a century in Manitoba. To be part ofsuch a mandate is humbling but also comes with a great sense of responsibility. Premier Brian Pallister has putforward an ambitious plan to make Manitoba the most improved province in Canada while moving us in the rightdirection financially. But it can only happen if we work together, as a team, as Manitobans always do when thereis an important job to get done. I am grateful for the tremendous support that I received from residents of the Steinbach Constituency. Myfamily and I are so thankful for the many words of encouragement that we receive regularly from constituents. I also am grateful for everyone, whether successful or not, who put their name on a ballot during the election.As well to the thousands of people who volunteered for the various political parties during the campaign. Thedemocratic system is only strong when people participate in it as candidates, volunteers and of course asvoters. As well, for those MLA’s, regardless of party, who decided not to run for re-election or who were defeated inthe election, thank you for your service to the province. You and your families deserve the thanks of Manitobansfor your service. As a new chapter begins on Manitoba political history, it begins with realism and optimism. The realism ofknowing that there are financial challenges and the need to bring improvements to areas such as healthcare andeducation. But also the optimism that each of the challenges can be met with the collective effort of Manitobans. I look forward to working with residents as the new Progressive Conservative government begins movingtowards improving Manitoba for the benefit of all Manitobans. I appreciate your comments and concerns. If you have any comments on these or other issues, you cancontact me by writing, #3 – 227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB, R5G 1Y7, by phone at 204-326-5763, by fax at204-346-9913, by e-mail at [email protected] or by visiting my website at kelvingoertzen.com.I look forward to hearing from you.

Southeastern Manitoba is getting attention because of theentrepreneurial spirit of its people. We’ve always been innovators aswe looked for better ways to do things on the farm, in business, oreven just at home. That’s why I was pleased to show a special guestsome of that innovative entrepreneurial spirit in action this week. I had the privilege of spending some time in the community with theLeader of the Official Opposition, Rona Ambrose. Ms. Ambrose andI toured WS Steel, a localmanufacturer inSteinbach, to get afirsthand look at theiroperation. While touring,we were also able to checkout the new CX-6SMART Seeder(tm)being manufactured therefor CleanSeed CapitalGroup Ltd. The CX-6 SMARTSeeder(tm) offersunrivalled levels of precision for modern no-till seeding and has alreadyreceived many agricultural industry awards. I had the privilege ofseeing the first seeder come off the assembly line on April 5. It onlytook one look at the finished product to realize the significant level ofcreativity, inventiveness, and hard work from many involved in thisproject to lead up to that point, and I was pleased to be able to showMs. Ambrose some of the fruit of that entrepreneurial spirit. I believe that the Canadian Government must work with businessesto encourage expansion and put in place incentives that enablebusiness to grow and thrive. The result of business-friendly policiesis more innovation and better jobs for Canadians. We ought to seemore businesses creating and innovating. With Ms. Ambrose leadingour efforts to hold the Liberal Government to account for Canadians,I know we will continue to champion polices that promote innovationand encourage entrepreneurs. You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204-326-9889. You may also write my office at 76 PTH 12 N, Steinbach,MB R5G 1T4, e-mail me at [email protected] or visit my websiteat tedfalk.ca.

Conservative LeaderVisits Provencher An Impressive Win

After six years as President,Lorraine Jones-Racine hasstepped down from the St Malo& District Chamber ofCommerce. Jones-Racine said she isextremely grateful to all thedirectors who have served onthe Chamber’s Board with herduring the past six years. “OurChamber of Commerce and itsmany project volunteers haveaccomplished many objectives

A New Government

St. Malo Chamber President Steps Downand completed numerous projectsin the past 6 years,” Jones-Racinesaid. “All you have to do is take alook around town to see theresults of their efforts. Ourcommunity volunteers are thelifeblood of our projects. Withoutyou we could not have achievedall that we have.” Jones-Racine said she wouldcontinue to donate her time to theChamber on various projects andby being its representative on the

Chambers Bulletin, the chambersmonthly newsletter. “I feel thatthis is a very important“communication link” for ourcommunity and I am committed tocontinuing its operation,” shepromised. To join the St. Malo Board ofDirectors or to volunteer on oneof their projects contact Aggie204-347-5493 or Lucille 204-347-5683.


It has been almost 2 weeks since Manitobans went to the polls, elected BrianPallister, and our Progressive Conservative Team to govern this great province. Theexcitement of being part of this team keeps growing every day. I would like to thank all Manitobans, especially the ones from La Verendrye thatcame out and voted in Election 2016, your overwhelming support has given me theopportunity to be part of Manitoba’s next provincial government. As I watched, the election results come in, it was clear that Manitobans wantedchange. The need for change is what I heard from the majority of the voters I talkedto. They were all tired of paying more and getting less from their government. Theywanted a better future for Manitoba - a province where their children and grandchildrencan prosper. We had our first PC Government Caucus meeting on April 27 and the excitement inthat room was incredible. Our 40 PC MLAs are all ready to get to work and startmoving Manitoba in the right direction. I know it won’t be easy, but I am optimisticthat we can achieve anything with the team that was elected. I am proud to be part ofthis team, and will continue to work hard alongside my colleagues to make Manitobaa better province. I look forward to representing the constituents of La Verendryeand will continue to bring forward any issues or concerns you may have. Once again, I would like to thank everyone for their great support, all the volunteersthat helped my campaign team and my family. I look forward to hearing from you with any questions or concerns. I can bereached at my constituency office at 204-424-5406, my legislative office at 204-945-4339 or at [email protected].

ExcitingTimes Dr. David Johnson said his tenure

as President of ProvidenceUniversity College and TheologicalSeminary, which began in 2013, hasbeen one of the great privileges ofhis life. At a meeting last month, Dr.Johnson was presented a new, five-year mandate that will keep him atthe Providence helm through 2021by the Board of Governors. Board Chair Dr. Gordon Giesbrechtsaid the board was happy to renewJohnson’s contract. “Dr. Johnsonhas dedicated himself to tirelesslypursuing the success ofProvidence,” said Giesbrecht. “Welook forward to his leadership andinput over the next five years.” Johnson said his main tasks goingforward include bolstering theschool’s academic offerings andexpanding its constituency. “SinceI began teaching at Providence in1990, I don’t think we have everexperienced so much change all inthe same year,” he said. “We arebeginning to take some rapid stepsto serve students.” Giesbrecht believes the next fiveyears of Dr. Johnson’s tenure willsee continued growth, not only inthe student body, but also in theinstitution’s reputation in local,

By Marianne Curtis

A young woman from Lorette is slatedto be the next deserving individual toreceive a specialized wheelchaircourtesy of “Tabs for Wheelchairs”.Delaney Kolowca is a grade 10 studentat St. Boniface Diocesan High School.The former Ste. Anne resident has beenchosen as next year’s recipient. Delaney was born with Gorlinsyndrome, which is a genetic conditionthat can affect many areas of the body.Gorlin syndrome can increase the riskof developing various cancerous andnon-cancerous tumors as well asaffecting other areas of the body. Shehad 17 jaw tumors removed when shewas 12 and 120 plus basal cell skincancer spots removed when she was13, both related to Gorlin syndrome.She was also born with scoliosis, acurvature of the spine. In the summer of 2014, she began tohave difficulty in walking because ofthe scoliosis. She had surgery onNovember 10, 2014, and was given a75% success rate. Unfortunately, theworst scenario happened and becauseof the operation, she became paralyzedfrom the mid chest down. Gwen Buccini, “Tabs forWheelchairs” Coordinator said they arelooking forward to helping Delaney. Forthe past eighteen years, theorganization has collected tabs, andused the money raised from the sale ofthe metal to purchase wheelchairs forpeople who require the specializedequipment. “Throughout all of this, Delaneyalways remained positive with a happyspirit and a remarkable attitude that shewas going to make the best of it,” saidBuccini. “It was an honor to meet thisyoung lady! What an inspiration! Itwill be our extreme privilege to give thisvery brave girl a specialized wheelchairin June 2017!” Buccini said they are grateful for all

Johnson Reappointed asProvidence President

Dr. David Johnson has been reappointed as President of ProvidenceCollege for another five years.

national, and international communities. “I believe thatyears from now we will look back on Dr. Johnson’svision and agree it was a major turning point in ourhistory,” he said.

“Tabs forWheelchairs”

to SupportLorette Woman

These bags contain 180,000 tabs (worth $72) collected fromaround the southeast and gathered at the Pat Porter Center inthe last six months.

Delaney Kolowca, from Lorette, will be getting a newwheelchair next year, through “Tabs for Wheelchairs”.

the help they get with the program. A standardSports wheelchair costs $6,000 or 14 million tabs;a specialized chair that allows for elevation, costs$10,000 or 24 million tabs. “I know I say this every year but we are sograteful for the continued support and dedicationto this program!” Buccini said. “We could not dothis without each and every one of you!” Western Scrap Metals Inc. also provides anadditional way to donate to the “Tabs forWheelchairs” program. They accept cans or anykind of metal and will credit Holy Cross School“Tabs for Wheelchairs” upon request. To ensure the success of the fundraiser, thepublic’s helps is needed. Several schools in theregion are collecting tabs for wheelchairs,including Arborgate School, Ecole St. Adolphe,Niverville Elementary School, Ecole Ste. AnneImmersion, Dawson Trail School, Ecole regionalGabrielle-Roy and Ecole Ile Des Chenes. Tabs canalso be brought directly to the Pat Porter Centrein Steinbach.


Pat Porter Active Living Centre offers programs, activities, servicesand volunteer opportunities, striving to promote healthy and activeliving for older adults of the southeast region. We invite you to comeand pay us a visit and consider participating in some of our programs.For more information drop by the Centre, Monday to Friday 9 am - 4 pm,call 204-320-4600 or online patporteralc.com. Membership is $25 per year due by January 15 for those 55 years ofage and older. Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice inbusiness meetings, voting rights and eligibility to serve on the board orcommittees.

Up and Coming Events and Monthly Programs: Special Event: Mothers’ Day Tea – On Monday, May 9, 2 pm join usfor an afternoon in celebration of Mom. Dainties, coffee and tea will beserved along with a chance to share stories with other Mom’s. Everyonewelcome, price - $2 per person. Register for the Tea at the Centre or 204-320-4600. Seminars: Mature Driver – On Thursday, May 19 at the Centre from10am – 3 pm, register at the Centre by Thursday, May 12. Presented bySafety Services Manitoba. This one-day workshop is a great way tostay safe. In car assessments to follow. This assessment will NOT affectyour license in any way, it is informational only! New - Kemp Hearing Clinic: Every Monday at the Centre clinic room.Call 1-204-487-8000, ext #1 to book your appointment. Old Time Country Dances with Live Band: Small Town Limits onFriday April 1 at 8 pm - 12 am and Nitewinds on Friday, April 29 at 8 pm- 12 am. Tickets available at the centre. Advanced tickets are $11 formembers, $13 for non-members and $16 at the door. Lunch served at 10pm. Save yourself a few dollars and purchase your tickets in advance. Ifyou can’t make it into the Centre, we accept Visa and MasterCard overthe phone and will have your tickets for you at the door. May Potluck: On Thursday, May 12. If you know that, you would liketo attend please call ahead and let us know what you would like to bring.Call 204-320-4600. As always needed are: salads, casseroles, dessertsand buns. Cost is $6. We will be ordering from Chicken Chef for ourPotluck. Computer Lab: Need help with your computer skills? Call the centreand make an appointment. Labs are 1 hour long and available everyWednesday morning from 9 am – Noon. Please call the centre at 204-320-4600. Foot Care: On the first Tuesday, first Wednesday and third Tuesdayof the month from 9 am - 2 pm. Run by a professional foot care nurse.Cost $30. Bring your own towel. Contact the centre to book anappointment. Beltone Hearing: On the third Friday of the month. Contact 1-800-661-2653 for appointment.Monday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball

12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool1 - 4 pm Pickleball1 - 4:30 pm Model Trains1 pm Canasta7 pm Tai Chi7 - 9 pm Drop in Pool

Tuesday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball9:30 am – 3 pm Circle of Friends12 – 4:30 pm Drop in Pool1:30 - 4 pm Floor Shuffle7 - 9 pm Pickleball

Wednesday 10 - 11:30 am Tai Chi12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool1 - 4 pm Cribbage7 - 10 pm Old Time Band Practice7 - 10 pm Drop in Pool

Thursday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool1 - 4 pm Whist6 - 9 pm Drop in Pool

Friday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool1 - 4 pm Pickleball

Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $6. Contact204-320-4605 by 9 am to reserve your meal for that day. Purchase yourmeal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menusavailable at the office or in the newsletter. Bring a friend. Volunteer Opportunities include perogy making, decorating andsetting tables, birthday party hosts, food preparation and serving, cleanup, greeters and receptionists.

By Marianne Curtis

On April 5, the RM of Ritchot was named “SwiftChampions” by the Manitoba Chimney Swift Initiative fortheir ongoing support towards the support and protectionof the endangered bird. The Manitoba Chimney Swift Initiative is a programdedicated to the study and protection of the bird, whosepopulation has been declining over the years as chimneysdisappear in modern buildings. The community of St.Adolphe is considered the Chimney Swift Nest Capital inManitoba. According to Tim Poole, outreach coordinator for theManitoba Chimney Swift Initiative (MCSI) the municipalityhas been long-standing supporters of the organization,thanks to their ownership of the Club Amical in St Adolphe.“This relationship goes all the way back to the very earliestdays of MCSI. Since those days, the RM has always beenespecially helpful, providing access to buildings andcommitting to retaining precious breeding habitat on theirland,” Poole explained. “They have also worked withMCSI to re-point both chimneys on the Club Amical andgiven access to buildings.” Barb Stewart, who accompanied Poole to the awardpresentation, reflected on the first Chimney Swiftmonitoring season back in 2007. “The then mayor [Bob

Ritchot Recognisedfor Protecting

Chimney Swifts

Stefaniuk] was leaving the RM building with acouncillor following an evening council meeting. Themayor, on seeing two strange looking people sittingin the Club Amical parking lot, staring at the chimneytop, exclaimed ‘who are those drunk people?’ Thecouncillor responded, ‘that’s Barb and RobStewart’,” Stewart recalled. In 2008, the RM of Ritchot supported theconstruction of the Ferry Site Tower, and in 2010,the municipality facilitated the relocation of theartificial tower from the municipal ferry site to theChurch grounds. Then in 2015, council purchasedthe former Brodeur Brothers site where one of thefive nest sites in St. Adolphe is located.

Ritchot Mayor Jackie Hunt accepts a plaque of recognition fromBarb Stewart (left) and Tim Poole (right) with the ManitobaChimney Swift Initiative at a recent council meeting.

In the afternoon of April 5 at 5:30 pm during peak traffic, SteinbachRCMP observed a vehicle being operated on Main Street in an unsafemanner. A traffic stop was conducted on the vehicle and the adult male driver,a 57-year-old resident of Woodridge was arrested for impaired operationof a motor vehicle. The driver provided breath samples at nearly twicethe legal limit and was charged for impaired operation of a motor vehicleand driving over .08mg% and will appear in Steinbach Provincial Courtin May.

The province is warning cottagers aboutrising waters and possible flooding insoutheast Manitoba. Levels on West HawkLake, Falcon Lake and other watersheds inthe Whiteshell area are on the rise due torecent rain and melting snow and ice. Levels on Falcon Lake have surpassed theupper limits of what is considered normalfor this time of year. Low-lying lots may bevulnerable to flooding, the province said ina statement. Water levels on West Hawk Lake aren’tquite as high, but continue to rise.

On April 14, members of “D” Division Traffic Services conducted aDistracted Driving initiative in Steinbach and Surrounding areas. Between the hours of 9 am and 2 pm on the 14, 20 persons werecharged with Distracted Driving, specifically using a cellular phone,contrary to the Highway Traffic Act. In Steinbach, RCMP tested out anew tactic to get the message across to drivers. One officer held a signwith “I’m homeless” at an intersection while another officer took noteof the vehicles and drivers who did not notice the homeless manbecause they were on their cell phones. Steinbach Detachment and “D” Division Traffic Services are workingtogether to keep our streets and citizens safer. In Manitoba, distracted drivers receive five demerits, which increasethe cost of vehicle insurance and a $200 fine.

Woodridge Resident Charged with Impaired

Creative Traffic Tactic CatchesDistracted Cell Phone Users

High Water Warningfor Whiteshell


Check out all programs, events and purchase tickets online:www.steinbachartscouncil.ca call 204-346-1077. Annual Gala - On Friday May 6. Reserve your table ‘Celebrate the Arts’ InShades of White! Fundraising Gala - a Fine Night for Fine Attire…in whatevershade of white you desire with special entertainment, delicious food, an evening ofdance, and fun!

And look what’s NEW this year! One of the 50 best photographs in the world by internationally recognizedphotographer, Dennis Fast is up for auction, with a chance to place a Reserve Bidin advance! Live Painting by Signature Artist, Daylon Brown! The signature piece by thistalented artist will be created in front of your eyes during the evening and go to thehighest bidder at our traditional Fine Art Auction. A one-of-a-kind Custom Painting created exclusively for the highest bidder byartist, Melanie Penner! Additional artists featured at this year’s Fine Art Auction include well-knownartists Amanda Von Riesen, Marilyn Pankratz and Don Hoeppner.

Early Bird Registration! Summer Arts Day Camps Early Bird Registration. Join us this summer for ourcamps filled with music, dance, drama, visual arts, field trips, community outings,recreation and more! 2 Camps for ages 5 - 8 and ages 9 -12. Sign up until Monday,May 9 and Receive 10% off.Aloha Summer – Monday, July 4 – Friday, July 8.Wild Wild West - Monday, July 11 – Friday, July 15. Land Before Time - Monday, July 18 – Friday, July 22.Spy Kid - Monday, July 25 – Friday, July 29. The Mighty Jungle - Tuesday, August 2 –Friday, August 5. Note: 4 Day Camp,Monday, August 1 is a Holiday.Welcome to the Carnival - Monday, August 8 – Friday, August 12. The Great Outdoors - Monday, August 15 – Friday, August 19.

Arts4Tots Preschool ProgramWhy are we unique? The most creative way to learn for ages 3 - 5 with specialistsin dance, music, drama and visual arts! Come join Miss Pam and Miss Jen for allnext year’s activities, learning and excitement.

The Backyard Theatre CompanyWe want you! Experience scripts, improv, character building, perform on stageand build your confidence! For ages 5-17.

Fall Programs just around the corner…The Steinbach Arts Council is working on their fall line-up of programs. Check outthe programs at the end of May steinbachartscouncil.ca. Pre-Registration Day isThursday, June 2! Receive 10% off all programs!

Lease beautiful Local Art – for your Home or BusinessChange the look of your home or office - we can customize something just for you!Come and check out many pieces at our Centre. We will come in to install andremove it – you just enjoy it! And support your local artists at the same time. Communications/Marketing Co-ordinator – 35 hrs/wk, 45 wks/yr, withexperience; graphic design, web and social media skills an asset. Organized, able tojuggle many tasks in fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines. Send resume [email protected]. Volunteers needed for Summer in the City Artist Tent – fun and creativityguaranteed! There are many activities that happen with Artists in the City includingsupervising the tent, helping instructors with demos, assisting artists and so manyother fun and exciting tasks.

Hall Gallery Art Exhibit Mosaic Vita Schevchenko School Exhibit opening ceremony on Friday, May 25at 7 pm.

New! Aboriginal Culture GroupAboriginal Community and SAC will partner to run classes learning their culture,art, languages, and food. Call for more details.

By Marianne Curtis

The operator of an Ile des Chenesarea animal rescue is hoping thatpublic attitude towards animals andrescue organizations will change asmore awareness is raised on the rolesthey can play in the community. “If you are not part of the rescuecommunity, you do not know that itexists,” said Jenn Black, founder ofJenn’s Furry Friends Rescue. Since opening in 2012, the rescue,which is a registered andincorporated non-profitorganization’s goal, is to help stray,unwanted or abused animals. “Oncethey receive the care they need, wefind loving forever homes for themall,” said Black. “As an animalrescue, we take in neglected,injured, stray, unwanted orsurrendered pets into our care.” The animals are then placed intoa foster home and receive veterinarycare which includes mandatoryspay or neuter at the appropriateage. The pets are then adopted outto approved homes so that they canlive the happy lives they deserve. While Black’s intentions comefrom trying to assist with helplessanimals, sometimes her efforts aregreeted with ridicule andmisunderstanding. “I went outseveral evenings to try and catch astray chicken in Niverville and keepit from freezing to death,” Blackrecalled. “Instead of helping me,people in the community mockedmy efforts, and some even tried tohinder them.” Another incident involvingseveral trapped stray kittens livingunder a vacant mobile home in Iledes Chenes, led to RCMPinvolvement after a neighbour

By Marianne Curtis

On April 25, twenty-eight year old Kyllan James Ellis, of Lorette was arrestedand charged with the second-degree murder of Simone Sanderson, whose bodywas found in Winnipeg’s North End almost four years ago. According to Winnipeg Police Deputy Chief Danny Smyth, investigatorsbelieve Sanderson, 23, was killed after an argument between her and Ellis becameviolent. Sanderson was last seen alive in a West Broadway neighbourhood on August 26,2012. Police found her body covered in cardboard in an empty lot on September 2.Days later, police declared her death a homicide, after the cause of death wasdetermined to be blunt force trauma. “Police believe Ellis was driving his vehicle inthe area of Main and Burrows. It’s believed that he encountered Simone Sandersonon the street. Investigators believe that Simone Sanderson and Kyllan Ellis didn’tknow each other prior to the encounter,” Smyth said. Investigators believe the two got into a confrontation that escalated into physicalviolence, resulting in Sanderson’s death, Smyth said. Police first suspected Ellis’s involvement in Sanderson’s death in January 2014.Winnipeg police got a break in the case when earlier this month, DNA evidence hadbeen recovered, “At more than one,” location near where Sanderson’s body wasfound. At that time, police released the description of a small, two-door, oldermodel car that according to investigators the suspect was driving in hopes thatsomeone would step forward with new information. Police said Ellis owns a car matching the description given. Upon his arrest,police obtained a DNA sample from him that is being analysed and compared tothe DNA found near the crime scene.

Lorette Man Arrested for Murder Local Animal Rescue ChangesLives for the Defenceless

accused her of trying to steal thekittens. “I was trying to save thesekittens from freezing to death,” Blackstressed. “An animal is an animal and if’ it isin distress it needs to be helped. Ido not understand this disregard foranimals in this area,” Blackcontinued. “It was hurtful; I was notasking for opinions, I was asking forhelp.” Black spends a lot of time pickingup animals, matching them withfosters and rehoming animals savedthrough her efforts. She also visitslocal communities and reserveswhere she assists residents asneeded. “Unlike other rescues, we don’tjust go in and take the animals out.We drive in and talk to people, andoffer assistance as needed,” Blackexplained. “Sometimes that meanstaking an animal in for spay or

neuter, grooming, deworming,vaccinations or anything else theymight need. We bring in collars,food, dog beds and even doghouses, if needed.” Jenn’s Furry Friends Rescue, likeother rescues, operates on thegenerosity of donations andfundraisers to pay veterinary costs,and other needs. Anyone can help support a petrescue either through donatingitems, such as cleaning products,leashes, collars and blankets. Fosterhomes are also needed to ensurethat animals have a safe place to stayuntil their forever homes are found.Volunteers can also help withtransporting animals toappointments or moving thembetween foster homes. For more information or tovolunteer, [email protected].


Bryan Bishop and Jenn Black, from Jenn’s Furry Friends Rescue get ready to return thesecats to their homes after the rescue brought them in to be spayed.


On May 31, the RM of Tache has invited residents toattend a public hearing to discuss the construction of anew water treatment facility for Landmark. At the hearing, Council will hear any potential taxpayerwho wishes to make a presentation, ask questions or

register an objection to the LocalImprovement Plan. According to RM of TacheAdministrator Christine Hutlet, thetopic of the night will be the purchaseof property and construct a newwater treatment facility that willinclude a new supply well, a storagereservoir, disinfection equipment andinfrastructure. Once complete, the new facility willmeet provincial regulatoryrequirements. The design includes

You can own one of the Top 50 Photos in the world at the Live Auction taking place at theSteinbach Arts Council (SAC) Fundraising Gala on Friday, May 6. “Frolic in the Fireweed” (30 x 60) showing a Polar Bear frolicking in fireweed on an islandin Hudson Bay was taken by Dennis Fast in 2015 and is recognized as on of the world’sbest 50 photographs by New York-based publication, mymodernmet.com. Fast, a local photographer is known internationally as one of the best nature photographersin the world. The SAC is very excited that the photograph is available for the Gala’s auction. Reservebids are now being accepted by calling the office at 204-346-1077 to register your bidbefore the Gala even begins or watching steinbachartscouncil.ca for the most current bidson this piece and bidding on line as often as you want, anonymity is optional. If you areunable to attend, the SAC can arrange live bidding by phone during the Gala on Friday,May 6. For more information contact 204-346-1077.

By Marianne Curtis

The newly appointed Staff Sergeant of the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMPdetachments is excited to be back in the community and at the head of theregion’s second largest police force. Staff Sergeant Rheal Gravel said he could not think of a better place tofinish an incredible career than St. Pierre-Jolys. The Timmons, Ontario native worked in the local mines for four years,before deciding to become an RCMP officer 29 years ago. “I will neverregret becoming a police officer,” said Gravel. “I have been many placesand seen almost everything; it has been a really good career for me.” Prior to transferring to St. Pierre-Jolys in March, Gravel served, as abodyguard for five prime ministers, was a member of the SWAT team andworked as a Human Resources officer in Montreal. One of his more recentcareer highlights was spending a year in Haiti, training members of theNational Police Force. “When I got there, the police force was non-existent,”Gravel recalled. “Before I came home, I was in charge of 1,400 officers.” Despite overseeing and training a police force in a foreign country, Gravelis confident he will not be bored in St. Pierre-Jolys. “Policing is policing.I’ve spent time in an office, but coming back to St. Pierre, allows me to bein the community again,” Gravel continued. “I am looking forward to gettingout and meeting with the communities.” The St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP Detachment is currently operating at fullcapacity for the first time in a number of years as well. There are currently15 officers and 2 supervisors stationed at the detachment. With a full staffof officers, the detachment hopes to reopen the Satellite offices in Loretteand Niverville. “The towns [Niverville and RM of Tache] are responsiblefor hiring staff for the offices and they are on the cusp of hiring. We needone person, part time, for both offices. I hope that someone is hired beforefall,” Gravel stated. “Members are using the offices for their business, butthe public still have to go to St. Pierre.” Gravel hopes that with more officers, the detachment will succeed inlowering the volume of incidents in the various communities. “One of ourbiggest concerns is the number of impaired drivers; we want to encouragepeople to make that call and report drunk drivers,” he added. “Everyonetakes it for granted, thinking that if it’s on Facebook, that we know aboutit. We don’t follow Facebook. Unless someone tells us something is goingon, we don’t know about it.”

New Staff Sergeantin St. Pierre-Jolys

Staff Sergeant Rheal Gravel is the new head of the St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP detachment. Photo by Marianne Curtis

Amazing Photo Up for Bid

Hearing Scheduled forLandmark Water Treatment

an increase in capacity to allow for futureupgrading of the current distribution system, theimplementation of localized fire protection throughhydrants and takes into account, future communitygrowth based on a 20-year projection. According to Council, the total project cost isestimated to be $4 million of which $1 million willbe borrowed, $2.4 million is expected to come infrom the Federal and Provincial Building CanadaFunds and $600,000 will be withdrawn fromLandmark Reserves. Costs will be spread over a period of twenty yearswith borrowing levied against all properties withinthe LUD of Landmark, including exempt and anyoutlying properties serviced by the LandmarkPublic Water System. The hearing is taking place at the LandmarkKinsmen Community Centre on May 31 at 7 pm.


By Marianne Curtis

Planning is underway for a numberof summer festivals, including theBlumenort Fair. However, volunteersare on short supply and organizersare hoping they can encourage morepeople to offer a hand to ensuresuccess. Karen Doyle Hopkins, one of themain organizers said she wasdisappointed that no one showedup for an open-air fair meeting todiscuss event plans. “We did havea couple of people show up who arewilling to volunteer their time at thefair and we thank them but we needmore,” Hopkins said. “This fair willnot be a success without communityinvolvement. In fact, I’d go so far asto say it won’t be much of a fair atall. Breakfast, a couple of bouncersand some music on Saturdayevening.” Hopkins said this year; the fair istaking a step back in time by offeringa more nostalgic atmosphere to theevent. “There are exciting plansunder way for this year’s fair. As Ihinted earlier, we are going nostalgicwith some “old time” country fairideas that have a modern twist!”Hopkins continued with excitement.“In this spirit, do you belong to aclub or group that you would like toshowcase at the fair? Do you have ahobby that you would like topromote? For example lawn bowlingclubs, curling teams, photographyclubs or quilters groups. How aboutmodel trains, planes, cars, crossstitch, crewel, needlepoint, lace

Blumenort Fair Needs Volunteersmaking, wood carving, leather workor painting?” Hopkins is hopeful that people willcome forward with their ideas andskills. Volunteers are needed todistribute flyers, posters, and withthe actual event as well. Anyone interested in volunteeringcan [email protected] orcall phone 326-9013.

One-half of Manitoba musical duo Keithand Renée has just released her secondsolo album. On April 23, RenéeLamoureux released Dare To BeYou during an event at the West EndCultural Centre in Winnipeg. Specialguests including Those Guys - ACappella and The Amadians, featuringJames Roth, Courtney Krebsbach andKyle Fox, accompanied her that night. “It was such a wonderful night!” saidLamoureux after the show. For Dare To Be You forty newlycomposed songs were whittled down to11, with more emphasis being paid to thesongwriter’s peppier material. Featuringa variety of uplifting tunes, Lamoureuxwas inspired to write a bold and bravealbum circling around never giving up onyour dreams and following your heart.Produced by Murray Pulver, the album ispacked with star players who lend a handin creating the magic behind the meaningof the songs. Lamoureux’s single off the newalbum, I’m a Fighter, placed in the semi-finals in the 2016 International SongWriting Competition out of 18,500 songs. The Ile des Chenes singer-songwriterhas launched eight albums in total duringher musical career, toured across NorthAmerica and contributed herphilanthropy work with Free The Children.

Ile des Chenes MusicianReleases Second Solo Album

Ile des Chenes native andmusician RenéeLamoureux released Dare To BeYou on April 23 at the West EndCultural Centre.

She began exploring music with piano lessons at the ageof six and discovered her singing voice around that sametime after her parents bought her and her siblings amicrophone. Lamoureux wrote her first song at the age often, when her fifth grade teacher rented a drum machineand assigned the class to write a song and perform it livefor their parents.

Organizers of the Niverville OldeTyme Country Fair are excited toannounce that Canadian Country singerand songwriter Gord Bamford willappear on June 11, with guests TheWashboard Union and Brady Kenneth. Bamford, who just released hisseventh studio album Tin Roof, on April8, has been called Canada’s answer toGeorge Strait. He is a 16-time CanadianCountry Music Association (CCMA)award winning artist, including MaleArtist of the Year for two years running. For the first time ever in the historyof the Niverville Olde Tyme CountryFair, the evening concert will be licensed. Tickets can be purchased atnivervillefair.com.

On April 24 at approximately10:45 pm, Steinbach RCMPattended an address on BrandtStreet and arrested 24-year-oldTyler Myska who was found tobe breaching conditions of hisRecognizance stemming fromprevious weapon, drug andbreach charges. Myska was found to be inpossession of edged weaponsand methamphetamine. Myska was subsequentlyremanded into custody forPossession ofMethamphetamine, Possessionof Weapons for Dangerous

Gord Bamford HeadlinesNiverville Fair

Weapon, Drugs and Violations Send Man to JailPurpose and 4 counts of Failing toComply with the Conditions of hisRecognizance.


By Marianne Curtis

Ile Des Chenes resident andbusinessman Marc Palud came infirst place when he participated in aBusiness Entrepreneurship BootCamp competition in Winkler earlierthis month. On April 4 and 5, Palud participatedin a two day boot camp specificallydesigned for business owners andentrepreneurs looking to enhancetheir business skills, grow theircompanies and network withbusiness professionals and like-minded entrepreneurs. “I registeredfor this boot camp to help plan outour expansion plans and businessgrowth strategies for Canada overthe next 2 years,” explained Palud.“I also wanted to build strategicalliances with industryprofessionals that would be able toassist in our growth plans and addimmediate value in an advisoryboard member capacity.” The winning business pitch wasfor a multi-functional fuel enhancerproduct called Xp3, which Palud hadalready secured exclusive rights for,in the Canadian marketplace. Xp3 isalready being sold in Manitobathrough large OE dealers andthrough Warehouse Distributors inCalgary, Quebec City and Saskatoonand expanding into more Canadian

People attending the annualNiverville Heath andCommunity FoundationBanquet and Annual meetingon April 28 got a brief updateon plans to open up a 5,000sq.ft. medical clinic as part ofthe Heritage Centre. The new Primary CareAccess Centre will be locatedon the ground floor of thefacility. Niverville Heritage CentreCEO Steve Neufeld said thenew facility is a partnershipbetween Southern Health, theNiverville Medical Clinic,Niverville Heritage Centre andManitoba Health. “The newclinic will provide additionalservices that you wouldnormally see in a primaryhealthcare centre or doctor’soffice,” Neufeld explained.“Some of these services maybe day surgeries, or lumpsand stitches.” Neufeld hopes peopleinstead of going to emergencyrooms would use that clinic.“Rather than going to anemergency room and waitingsix to ten hours, you’d be ableto come here and get suturesdone by a doctor,” hecontinued. The goal of the new PrimaryCare Access Centre is tocreate a single access point toappropriate health careservices for the communityand the region. The long-termplan is to move towards 24-

Outside the wind is moaning, a shutterscreeches back and forth on rusty hinges, thelights flicker briefly before going out andsomewhere in the old house, a floorboard creaks.I watch in horror and disbelief as the little womandecides that now would be a good time to light asmall candle and go in the basement to see ifthere is someone down there. I have a news flash for you, if there is a person downthere then a) the person downstairs is your missing friend, whom you somehow becameseparated from and he/she is the killer and you should leave the house because forsomething that you may or may not have done, you’re next or b) it is not your friend andthe person downstairs is the killer and you should definitely not go down those stairs.Either way, don’t go in there! I recently watched the movie Shooter starring Mark Wahlberg (beware of upcomingspoilers) and it was a great movie but I did try to warn him ahead of time that the men hewas associating with were just using him and that they were going to try to kill him. Noluck, he didn’t listen and they did exactly like I told him that they were going to do. Youknow, for a military man you think he would’ve listened to my timely advice. What I don’t get is that whether it’s the lonely woman with a candle or the military manbeing used by a corrupt top-secret government organization (aren’t they all?) the menand women don’t seem to want to listen to my advice. No matter how much I warn them,no matter how much information I spout at the television they just don’t seem to care.I shout, I wave my hands in the air and yet they still continue to do what I know theyshouldn’t do. I’m sure that if I was sitting a few feet away from you and told you not tocross the street because a bus will hit you if you do, you’d probably pay attention (orat the very least, take the time to look both ways before you step out onto the street). Another piece of advice for those folks in the movies, if a towering man silently standsbefore you wearing a hockey mask and the aura of death and mayhem almost physicallyradiates off of him... don’t give him a machete! Common sense? Duh! Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.

Primary Medical Clinic Planned for Nivervillehour access, 7 days a week. Services include accessto primary care clinicians, such as physicians, nursepractitioners or physician assistants. Over the years, the Heritage Centre has become acommunity owned campus that provides childcare,medical care, primary health services, dental care,event hosting, assisted living and supportive housingfor seniors and a state of the art 80 bed personal carehome.

IDC Entrepreneur Wins FirstPlace in Boot Camp Competition

Randy Thompson, President of VA Angels (left) and JanLederman, President of Innovate Manitoba (right) with winnerMarc Palud (centre).

cities using a warehouse distribution style businessmodel. At the end of the boot camp, all participantscompeted in a Dragon’s Den style competition pitchingtheir business to a panel of judges for a chance to winup to $6,000 in cash and in-kind services from eventsponsors. Businesses were evaluated on several criteriaincluding commercial potential, the size of the market,proof of concept, profitability and scalability amongother things. The Business Boot Camp is put on by InnovateManitoba, whose mission is to catalyze innovation bypromoting and supporting entrepreneurs, researchersand inventors and assisting in stimulating access togrowth capital for high potential businesses.

Don’t Goin There!

On April 24 at approximately 9:50 pm, Steinbach RCMPtemporarily shut down the Westbound lane ofHighway #52, 1/4 mile west of Steinbach after locatinga firearm and ammunition in a vehicle during a trafficstop. The female driver, aged 33, was arrested and releasedon a Promise to Appear to attend Steinbach Court forcharges of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm,Careless use of a firearm, Possession of a Firearm in a

Gun and Ammo DiscoveredDuring Traffic Stop

Motor Vehicle and Possession ofa Weapon for a DangerousPurpose. The sole passenger, TylerSawatzky, aged 21, was arrestedand released on a Recognizancebefore a Justice of the Peace oncharges of UnauthorizedPossession of a Firearm, Carelessuse of a firearm, Possession of aFirearm in a Motor Vehicle andPossession of a Weapon for aDangerous Purpose.


Most of you have filed your 2015 taxes on time before the May 2, 2016deadline. If you haven’t yet and you are expecting a refund, you can relax:you are not penalized for being late (CRA doesn’t mind having your moneya bit longer), but get it filed soon so you can get your refund. And if youare expecting GST credits or Child Tax benefits, you need to file soon sothose credits aren’t delayed. If you expect that you may owe Canada Revenue Agency, you definitelyneed to get it filed before May 31. You will still face a penalty (5% of whatyou owe), but at least it won’t be more than that (it can be an additional 1%for each month you delay filing). And the interest started accumulating onMay 3 (the interest rate is a reasonable 5%). If you are self-employed, you have until June 15, 2016 to file your personalincome taxes (and your spouse too). The interest does start accumulating,but at least there is no penalty if you file by June 15, so don’t delay! If you filed on time and cannot pay your amount in full, contact CRA tomake payment arrangements. Generally, as long as you pay regularly andhave it paid off within 12 months, CRA does not “bother you”. But don’tignore them! They can garnish your payments if you ignore them toolong. The June 15 deadline applies to Snowbirds in a different way. If youspend about 120 days or more in the USA each year, there is a special taxform you need to send to the IRS. Don’t delay or avoid it. If you don’t fileit and you should, one day you may arrive at the US border and they maynot let you in. They do know when you come and go each year (rememberwe now need to have passports). You do not pay any taxes when you file this return; it’s just an informationreturn. I can help you complete the form (no charge). All I ask is for you towrite down each of your trips to the US in the past 3-4 years. And includethe times you go down for just a few days (for the Casino, or golfing, orcamping). The Manitoba Health Pharmacare letters should be arriving soon givingyou information about what your Pharmacare (eligible prescriptions)deductible is for the 2016/2017 year; it’s based on the 2014 personal incometaxes. If your net family income for 2016 will be 10% less than it was in 2014,you can request the deductible be reduced. Let me know if you want somehelp with the form. I wrote last month that I think the ambulance fees should be included inthe Pharmacare deductible; talk to your newly elected MLA about theidea. I believe those with lower incomes should have their ambulance feescovered by Manitoba Health and those with higher incomes should stillpay (or through their private health plans). Many families with children under 18 will be happy this summer. Thenew federal government has created a new Canada Child Benefit (CCB)providing monthly tax-free benefits that are tied to income, to replacethe Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB), Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB)and National Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS). The Canada Child Benefitpayments will start in July 2016. The new Canada child benefit will be based on your family’s 2015 netincome. For families with net family income under $100,000 your monthlybenefit will likely increase; those with incomes over $100,000 will see adecrease. There is a good calculator on CRA’s website (cra.gc.ca). Use the calculator to see what happens to the Benefit if you buy RRSPsand reduce your family income. Not only do you save on taxes, but areduction in family income will increase the Canada Child Benefit too,saving you even more money. Another reason to consider buying RRSPsto save for the future. Those with family net income of $50,000 to 110,000will really see significant savings with RRSP contributions. Even though the major rush of “tax season” is now over, we are openyear round to adjust your past tax returns, answer questions, and helpwith other forms including the Disability Tax Credit, Manitoba PrimaryCaregiver Tax Credit, Guaranteed Income Supplement, PharmacareDeductible reduction and more. Anni Markmann is a Personal Income Tax Professional and CertifiedFinancial Planner; living, working, and volunteering in our community.Contact her at 204-422-6631 or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne (near Co-op) or [email protected].

By Marianne Curtis

On May 8, three local World War II veterans will be officially awarded the French National Order of the Legionof Honour. At a special ceremony, John Owczar, Bennie Klick and Lloyd Lehman will be presented with their awards byMonsieur Bruno Burnichon, Honorary French Consul for Manitoba on behalf of the President of France. According to Bill Richards, President, of the Steinbach Royal Canadian Legion Branch 190, this is the highestnational order award that France can bestow. “These three true heroes have been awarded the French Legion Medal of Honour in recognition for theirpersonal dedication of duty and sacrifice during the battle to liberate France in 1944-1945,” said Richards. “Theselection criteria and process for award nomination was strict but after careful review of each man’s record byboth the government of France and Canada, [they were] honourably approved.” Richards said it is a huge honour for these veterans to be recognized with this award. “All three of thesedistinguished veterans are members of the Royal Canadian Legion,” said Richards. “This is a proud moment forthese three deserving veterans, their families, Royal Canadian Legion and our community. The criteria and process to be nominated for this honour was strict and rigorous. It required verification ofmilitary records by both Canada and France. The fundamental requirement was that each nominee had to haveparticipated in the D-Day landings of June 6, 1944 and involved in a significant way (i.e. direct combat) towardsthe liberation of France and Paris specifically. Each accepted candidate’s file was then sent to the desk of thePresident of France himself for final signature. The formal medal presentation is taking place at the Steinbach Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion startingat 2 pm.

The month of May is Asian Heritage Month as declared by theGovernment of Canada in 2002 and a local event is scheduled aspart of the celebrations. On May 8, an Asian Canadian Festival is taking place at theMennonite Heritage Village in Steinbach from 1:30 - 4:40 pm. Art Miki, President of the Asian Heritage Society of Manitoba isresponsible for organizing Asian Heritage Month activities inManitoba. “It is a great opportunity for us to showcase AsianCanadian talents and performers and share in the music, dance andmartial arts,” said Miki. “Asian Heritage Month is an ideal occasionfor all to celebrate and appreciate the beauty and wisdom of variousAsian cultures.” This is the thirteenth year that Asian Heritage Month activitieshave taken place in the province.

Snowbirds,Pharmacare,

Families

Local Event Celebrates Asian Month Local Veterans AwardedFrance’s Highest Honour

A couple from La Broquerie has been recognized for their hard working on maintaining their family home. On April 12, David and Christine Bell were presented with the Jefferies Nurseries Ltd. Shield for having theBest Urban Home Grounds. They were presented with the award at the Manitoba Good Road’s AssociationBanquet in Brandon. The Jefferies Nurseries Ltd. Shield is given annually to the homeowners of the Best Urban Homes for urbancentres population 1,001 to 2,000.

La Broquerie Home Owners Win Award

By Marianne Curtis

Several local private campground owners are worried about their situation after an Ontario campgroundraised the alarm upon receipt of a tax bill for close to $250,000 because the Canada Revenue Agency(CRA) says it is not eligible for the small business tax rate. The campground owner claimed that CRA said the campground’s principle purpose is to derive rentalincome instead of providing a service, so it should be paying three times what small businesses pay. Industry officials argue that campgrounds provide a service similar to that of hotels and motels, both ofwhich are usually eligible for the small business tax rate. Peter Friesen, owner of Sunset Oaks Family RV Park, near Stuartburn said this is new to him. “We justheard about it and it hasn’t affected us at all in any way yet,” said Friesen. “It could be devastatingthough. If this is legit, it could easily put us and many other private campgrounds out of business. Wetotally disagree with the assessment. There are many services we provide besides a place to spend thesummer. Just another way for them to get their hands into our business and into their pockets. So muchfor supporting the small business community.” Wild Oaks Campground owner Gisele Turenne said that as an incorporated business, they are not surehow this could affect their business, which is located in Richer. “This might be a question to ask ouraccountant. But if this would happen we would have to close. There is no way we would be able to affordor pay. What about the provincial campgrounds?” Turenne asked. “On one hand, they want to promote tourism, on the other hand, they want to shut us down,” added herpartner Ray. “If they don’t treat the provincial campgrounds the same as the private then this would be aconflict of interest. CRA would force us to close.” Agnes Gosselin, owner of Debonair Campground in St. Malo is also concerned. “Since CRA is doingthis to at least one campground, I’m pretty sure we will all soon be affected. Should this happen, most, ifnot all, privately owned campgrounds will close,” said Gosselin. “We have never played on a levelplaying field with the Government. Now if we end up no longer being eligible for the small business taxrate, we will be forced to shut down. I don’t understand how they can justify not recognizing us as a smallbusiness. I’ve often wondered if this is what the Government wants so they have the monopoly oncamping.” In 2015, the Harper government promised to review the rules after an uproar from small business groups.However, in 2016, the Trudeau government announced that the review was complete and there would notbe any changes. Back in October 2012, the former Conservative government and CRA made a distinction between activeand passive income in order to apply different tax rates to each type of income, as well as to applydifferent rules on a subsequent sale of a business. With active income, businesses can use the lower tax rate on income earned up to $500,000, thereforeencouraging the reinvestment of after-tax income for further growth. Passive income is considered incomeearned from a specified investment business such as making an investment in land and the potentialreturns when that land is sold in the future. A specified investment business is defined by the CRA as abusiness in which the principal purpose is to derive income from property such as interest, dividends,rents and royalties. Under this interpretation, unless you have more than 5 full-time employees a businessis considered a passive investment business. For campgrounds and self-storage facilities, the principal purpose of these types of small businesses isto earn income from the sale of services conducted on their property. In the case of private campgrounds,services can include a place to pitch your tent or RV, groceries, first aid, firewood, access to barbecues,swimming pools, activity centres along with the wonders of nature just as provincial and nationalcampgrounds do.

CRA Says Private Campgroundsare Not Small Businesses


Manitoba Health is warning residents that the risk of Lyme disease ishigh in this corner of the province as the range of blacklegged tickscontinues to expand. Affected areas include Steinbach, Ste. Anne, LaBroquerie, St. Malo, St. Pierre-Jolys, Sprague and Vita. Despite this expansion, not all areas in southern Manitoba providesuitable habitats for blacklegged ticks. Blacklegged ticks are mostcommonly found within and along the edges of wooded or forest habitatand in areas, with thick, woody shrubs and other vegetation that providesufficient cover and typically high humidity. Blacklegged ticks are more likely to be found in Lyme Disease Risk Areasthan in other parts of the province. They are also more likely to carry theagents that cause tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease, Anaplasmosisand Babesiosis than blacklegged ticks found in other parts of the province. The level of risk can vary within each Lyme disease risk area, based onwhether the habitat is suitable for blacklegged ticks. It should however be noted that the distribution of blacklegged tickswithin these Lyme disease risk areas can be non-uniform. For example,forested habitats, even small plots within farmland, dominated by treesthat shed their leaves on an annual basis, can provide ideal habitat forboth blacklegged ticks and animals such as small rodents, birds and deerthat they normally feed on.

By Marianne Curtis

On April 1, new detachment policing boundaries were put into effectbetween the St. Pierre-Jolys and Steinbach RCMP detachments. Staff Sergeant Rheal Gravel, with St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP explained therealignment was based on public sentiment and requests from the affectedcommunities. Both the RMs of Tache and Hanover have a mutual desire inenhancing police response times and services in relation to geographicallocations of assigned detachments, he added. “This change is good for both the departments and the residents,” saidGravel. “It improves visibility and contact with the public; response timeswill be improved and geographically the changes make sense for bothdetachments.” Gravel said community growth, composition and linguistic dynamicshave changed where not as much emphasis is placed on bilingual officersas previously requested by the communities. Under the new realignment, the northeastern part of the RM of Tacheincluding Ste. Genevieve, Ross, Dufresne are now being patrolled by theSteinbach detachment. In conjunction, parts of the RM of Hanoverincluding New Bothwell, Kleefeld, and Randolph now falls within the newSt. Pierre-Jolys’ policing boundary. “These changes in patrol areas represent simple extensions of existingdetachment jurisdictions,” noted Gravel. Calls received by RCMP dispatchfrom the public will be routed to the proper detachment. The realignment reverts to the policing boundaries to those similar tothe pre-1992 configuration at both St. Pierre-Jolys and Steinbachdetachments. Bilingual service to the communities will not be affected.

RCMP Boundary Change Promises Visibility and Faster Response

With the realignment of policing services, the Steinbach RCMP are now patrolling and responding to calls in the blue area and the St.Pierre RCMP are handling the yellow section.

Lyme Disease RiskAlready High

The areas shaded in orange on the map are known Lyme disease risk areas, whereestablished blacklegged tick populations have been found and the risk of acquiring tick-borne diseases is higher.


By Marianne Curtis

In 2011, Providence established itself as a leader in the sustainabledevelopment sector with the installation of a biomass burner. The burner,and the school’s overall commitment to environmental sustainability, hasbeen in the news ever since. On April 16, Richard Grosshans, Senior Research Scientist at theInternational Institute of Sustainable Development (IISD) provided a mediatour of Providence’s new heating system. “This is very exciting for IISD and all of our partners along our chainfrom those harvesting cattails on the landscape to production of the pelletsand eventually to the heating of the college via their heating system,” saidGrosshans. “Burning something like cattails has the same heat value aswood or other fuel products.” He adds the cattail product packs numerous other benefits, includingcarbon reduction, phosphorus capture and renewal, and increasedbiodiversity. “We always believed that one way to keep wetlands on thelandscape would be to prove their economic values alongside theenvironmental values that they provide to society. Through our partnershipwith Providence University College, we have proven that the system canwork in the depths of a Manitoba winter with a product supply that canmatch demand,” Grosshans continued. IISD harvests cattail and other plants from marginal agricultural land,water retention sites, and drainage ditches to remove nutrients andcontaminants absorbed by the plants, and then uses plant biomass toproduce low carbon energy to replace fossil fuels. Providence has been burning biomass since 2011 and burned its firstcattail pellets in January 2016. “They burned exceptionally well, and wewere extremely pleased with the product. At present our campus is poweredby approximately 70 per cent renewable sources,” said Jarrad Peters, creativecontent specialist at Providence University College. The timing of turning cattails into fuel is pertinent. In 2017, it will becomeillegal in Manitoba to use coal as a heat source.

Organizers of the annual St. Labre 200 haveannounced that a wellness farm from St. Malo andSTARS will share in the proceeds of this summer’sracing weekend. The annual event will not take place until July, butteams and organizations are already ready to roll. InMarch, the organizers of the St. Labre 200 invitednon-profit organizations to apply for funds throughtheir “Giving Back to the Community Campaign”. What started as a competition between the Grenierbrothers and friends has blown up into a provincialfestival with 120 participants and 1,500 spectators 7years later. “St-Labre 200 Inc. is all about getting peopletogether and having a great time,” said committeemember Lucien Grenier. “We can accomplish this allwhile raising money for many local organizations,charities and causes.” Over the last 7 years, St. Labre 200 has given backover $50,000 to the communities in the region. Proceeds from this year’s event will be dividedbetween two organizations. The first being, Lil StepsMiniatures & Wellness Farm, which is an animalassisted wellness farm for children between 6-18 yearsold with various needs such as Autism, ADHD/ADD,anxiety, and depression. The farm is located near St.Malo. The STARS – Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society,which provides rapid air medical service to remoteregions in Manitoba, will also receive funds. St. Labre 200 includes many activities and profitsfrom the community supper, concessions,merchandise, team auction, on-site donation jar and araffle. The main event is a 24-hour go-cart build off,followed by a nail biting 200-lap race (50 miles). Thisyear, for the first time, sixteen teams will participate inthe event instead of the traditional fourteen. Otheractivities on the grounds include excavator and skidsteer rodeo, bounce castles, R/C race cars, rubberboot toss, live bands, fireworks, Manitoba ArmWrestling Association sanctioned tournament andmany others. This year’s St. Labre 200 will take place July 8 to 9.

Cattails Produce Heat in Providence

Richard Grosshans, a Senior Research Scientist at IISD with abag of biomass pellets that are used in heating heatProvidence College.

STARS and WellnessFarm Slated to Benefit

from St. Labre 200

By Marianne Curtis

The Ste. Anne Lions Club is hosting the community’s first AlzheimerSociety Walk next month on June 11 at the Ste. Anne soccer park. Ste. Anne Lions Club spokesperson Patricia McPherson is excitedthat the first Alzheimer Society Walk in Ste. Anne is taking place thesame day as the Lions Club Kite Festival Family Day. “The AlzheimerSociety has been active in the Villa Youville since February. Theywanted to start a walk in town and approached me the other day askingif I could organize a BBQ and start and finish location for the walk,”explained McPherson. “I thought hosting the Alzheimer Walk alongside our annual kite fest will be a great way to connect the community’syouth and seniors.” Leona Doerksen, Regional Coordinator of the Alzheimer Society andwalk organizer said the group is grateful to the Ste. Anne Lions Club

Ste. Anne to Walk for Alzheimer’s Awarenessfor hosting the event. “We are honoured to be asked to share in theKite Festival Family Day,” Doerksen added. “Families are soimportant especially to people who have been diagnosed withAlzheimer’s or other dementia. It is possible to live well, even withdementia, when we have the help and support we need.” The Alzheimer Society Walk is taking place at the Ste. Annesoccer park, near the fire hall. Registration starts at 10 am, with thewalk starting at 10:30 am. Participants can join for a minimumdonation of $25 for adults and children participate free. Taxabledeductable receipts will be provided. There will be team challengessuch as a team of 10 committed to raising $1,000, will receivematching team t-shirts, or gift cards depending on how much fundsthey raise. For more information or to register for the walk contact Leona at204-326-5771, email [email protected] or visitalzheimer.mb.ca.


By Marianne Curtis

A former teacher from Steinbach and her husband are celebrating therelease of their first children’s book called Secret Adventures of Tiny Toba. On April 20, Tiny Toba, a little bear, June, the Golden Retriever Therapy

Dog, and co-authors LindaSzyszkowski and DanielClement, and their custommotorcycle rolled down thehallway at Ecole Ste. AnneImmersion and Ste. AnneEnglish School to share theirstory with the students.“There and unforgettablelibrary book presentationwent down in history,” saidLinda. “We’ve been havingfun sharing our book withkids of all ages.” The couple is thrilled withthe success of their debut

children’s book. The Secret Adventures of Tiny Toba, Gold Star Gratitude- First Journey is written and illustrated by the couple. Dan and Lindabecame a design team, illustrating, writing and creating the made- inManitoba book. Prior to publishing their debut children’s book, Szyszkowski taught fortwo years in Steinbach. The Secret Adventures of Tiny Toba is based on a true story for all ages.In the forty-page full colour hardcover, Tiny Toba travels the world,teaching the importance of sprinkling gratitude into every area of yourlife. The book’s design is an eye popping, eclectic fusion of photographs,drawings and graphic design elements linking gratitude into schoolcurriculum with a powerful lesson plan and worksheets. The Secret Adventures of Tiny Toba is available at Ten Thousand Villagesin Steinbach. $1 from every book sold at Ten Thousand Villages Steinbachwill be donated to ROC Recreation Opportunities for Children.

By Marianne Curtis

The RM of Tache is hoping that by spring 2017, the municipal office willno longer be situated in Lorette. Tache Mayor Robert Rivard has confirmedthat the municipality has decided to construct a brand new municipalbuilding, outside of the community. At this time, the plan is to construct a brand new public works shop andmunicipal office at the corner of the TransCanada Highway and ProvincialRoad 206. The new building is expected to cost up to $4 million. Rivard admits this caused a problem for some councillors. “One of thecouncillors believes the building should be in either Lorette or Landmarkwhile others say it has always been in Lorette so it should stay,” Rivardadded. “Very few people are walking into the office, and if you look at ourpopulation, most of it is rural.” Councillor Armand Poirier added that removing the municipal office andpublic works building from within the community, opens up the area toother options. “If the RM can house all offices under one roof at our newfacility and do so for a fraction of the cost of building a new building itwould mean the building we now occupy as an RM building could beused for something else,” stated Poirier. “This might be an ideal opportunityfor us to consider re-locating the Thrifty Treasures and Food Bank to thislocation and designate this facility as a resource centre which would allowan expansion of these much essential services to our community.” The RM of Tache has been trying to move towards a new office buildingfor over ten years. The plan to build a public works building and a municipaloffice together would save Tache considerable money. The last time theRM of Tache looked into a quote for a new office, the project was estimatedto cost up to $2 million. Rivard said none of the projects being contemplated at this time shouldbe considered a threat to the future of a multiplex. “One project does notinterfere with the other,” reassured Rivard. “We have reserves and plansfor both projects, as long as government funding falls into line for therecreation complex.” Construction of the new municipal office building is expected to begin inearly summer and completed in one year. Once the municipality moves outof the current public works building in Lorette, it will become the shop forthe LUD of Lorette. As part of this year’s budget decisions, the municipality is also movingforward with Landmark’s $4 million water system upgrade, with themunicipal contribution of $1.6 million and $2.4 million. The Lorette lagoonupgrade, which will cost Tache $800.000.

Tiny Toba Rollsinto Ste. Anne

Linda Szyszkowski and Daniel Clement were pumped to share Secret Adventures of Tiny Toba, with the students in Ste. Anne.

Tache Looking toRelocate Municipal

Office


The Steinbach RCMP has successfully apprehendedone suspect in connection with a home invasion thattook place in Steinbach and is still actively seeking thesecond suspect. Twenty-four year old Harley William Delorme, fromMarchand and thirty-two year old Jean Pierre Gagnonfrom Richer are both being charged in connection with ahome invasion. On the evening of April 18, members of the SteinbachRCMP responded to a home invasion at a Brandt Avenueresidence, in Steinbach. The initial investigation revealed that two suspectsallegedly forced their way into an apartment, where analtercation took place with a resident and one of thesuspects discharged a firearm. No one was injured andinvestigators believe the incident was targeted. Following the home invasion, a warrant for the arrestwas issued for Delorme. He was arrested at a residencelocated along Henderson Highway in Winnipeg withthe help of the Winnipeg Police Service Tactical SupportTeam and Integrated Warrant Unit. He faces a variety ofweapons related charges as well as Break and Enter andCommit. RCMP thanks the public for their assistance. Subsequent to Delorme’s arrest, a warrant was issuedfor Gagnon. He has been charged with a number offirearms and violence related offences. He has ties to theSte. Anne and Winnipeg areas and should be consideredarmed and dangerous. RCMP urges the public not to take any steps toapprehend Gagnon themselves and is asked to contactthe police with any information on his whereabouts.

The Town of Niverville has opened up a community compost site located at the northend of Arena Road, behind the curling rink. The compost site is now limited to accepting grass clippings and leaves. It will nolonger be accepting any tree branches, wood products or other rubble. According to a notice sent out to residents the new regulation is because of the compostsite continuously receiving products that cannot be chipped and composted. Council acknowledges and regrets that the abuse of this community service has defeatedthe purpose for which the compost service was designed. Residents may choose to bringtheir branches to the local transfer station or a landfill site of their choice. Residents are asked to remove plastic bags from grass clippings and leaves and placethe bags in the garbage containers provided, located up against the fence, west of thegrass clippings and leaves.

All terrain vehicles grow more popular every year, and the Southeast ATV Associationis ensuring that riders stay educated and safe. On May 28, the organization is hostingtheir 4th annual ATV Awareness Day. A number of riders who wanted to encourage more families to the sport organized theSoutheast ATV Club. Club president Gary Gebhardt said the group is all about saferiding. “We are geared towards safety and fire prevention,” said Gebhardt. He said SoutheastATV Association has been working together with many organizations in gettinginformation on safe riding out to the public. MPIC, Manitoba Safety Services, Conservation and Water Stewardship, RCMP andthe Canada Safety Council are supplying the information. While the Southeast ATV Club is dedicated to educating riders and the public aboutATV safety, the group also likes having some fun. The club organizes family orientedrides, which brings out riders as young as eight and nine years old. The Southeast ATV Association is a nonprofit organization with the purpose to advancethe sport of ATVing and the positive aspects of ATV use, through the education of itsmembers and the public. This year’s ATV Awareness Day event is taking place May 28 at the Mennonite HeritageVillage in Steinbach. For more information email [email protected] or call 204-429-3276.

On April 14, the Steinbach and Area Lion’s Club members arrived at the Steinbach RCMPDetachment to present Headway Coordinator Brenda Brown with a cheque for $2,500 for theHeadway Program. Headway is a new initiative to support local youth and their families.

RCMP Hunt for ArmedHome Invader

Harley William Delorme is in custody.

RCMP are still seeking Jean PierreGagnon.

Southeast Club to HostATV Awareness Day

New Restriction forNiverville Compost Site

Steinbach and Area Lion’s ClubDonate to Headway Program

Pictured are Lion’s Club member Hank Klassen (left), Headway Coordinator Brenda Brown, and Lion’s member, BenjiFriesen.

On April 10 Steinbach RCMP, with the Manitoba Conservation, were investigating theillegal harvesting of wood on crown forest land in the RM Reynolds near the community ofRicher. While attending an address on Provincial Road #302 in Richer, RCMP located an improperlystored firearm in a residence. A warrant of arrest was issued for Joshua Bert Ross, 34, which included charges of Possessionof a Firearm when knowing possession is unauthorized, unsafe storage of a firearm, possessionof a weapon obtained by crime, two counts of possession of weapon for a dangerous purpose,and 5 charges of failing to comply with the conditions of a recognizance. Ross was located later that evening and remanded into custody for the above charges.Steinbach RCMP would like to remind citizens that harvesting timber on crown land withoutthe proper permits could carry a fine of up to $299.65.

Illegal Harvesting of Wood Investigations Nets Bigger Fish


Padmount transformers are thegreen metal boxes, often found onresidential lawns and in gardens,which supply electrical energy tohomes. While they pose alandscaping and gardeningchallenge, it is important to readthe warning signs on them as theycontain high voltage electricalequipment. Children should neverplay on or near them. Locks are inplace to ensure the doors andcovers on transformers remainclosed. Because padmount transformersare surrounded by undergroundcables, digging around themcould cause an electrical outageas well as severe and potentiallydeadly electrical shock. If you areplanning any type of digging neara padmount transformer,ClickBeforeYouDigMB.com tohave the underground lineslocated free of charge so you candig safely.Report Open or VandalizedEquipment If you see a substation fence ora padmount transformer that hasbeen vandalized or is unlocked,stay away and call ManitobaHydro immediately to report thehazard by calling 204-480-5900in Winnipeg or 1-888-624-9376toll-free.

The majority of homeowners want their properties toappear as appealing as possible. While manyhomeowners want to be proud of their properties andcome home to a welcoming home each night, thebenefits to maintaining landscaping go beyond thenotion that well-cared for lawns make for morecomforting retreats. Because numerous variables, includinglandscaping, influence property values, it’s difficult toassess just how much the property values of homeswith impressive landscapes are influenced by thosevery landscapes. Indeed, studies have producedvarying results regarding the effect of well-landscapedhomes on property values. But what many studieshave shown and what many realtors indicate is thatimpressive landscaping adds a significant amount toproperty values, with estimates suggesting landscapingincreases home values by anywhere from 5 to 20percent. Such estimates are good news for homeowners, andthey also highlight the stakes involved when makinglandscaping decisions. Homeowners with greenthumbs may embrace the challenge of revitalizing theirlawns and gardens, but many, especially those pressedfor time, can benefit greatly from working withprofessional landscapers. Why hire a professionallandscaper?

Why Hiring A Landscaper May Be For You Maintaining a property requires more thanjust mowing the lawn every couple of weeks.Even homeowners committed to making theirproperties as pristine as possible can run intoproblems when adverse weather conditionspose a threat to lawns and gardens. Thefollowing are just a handful of reasons whyhomeowners may find working withlandscaping professionals is the best thing fortheir properties and their bank accounts.• Professionals understand the local climate.Experienced professional landscapers willunderstand the local climate and thechallenges it presents to your lawn. Experiencecan prove invaluable as lawns battle adverseconditions that threaten its survival. Whilehomeowners going it alone may strugglethrough a trial and error period as they try toaddress problems threatening their lawns,experienced professionals are more likely toidentify the problem immediately, providing aready solution that can prevent potentiallycostly repairs down the road.• Professionals can provide inspiration. Inaddition to maintaining properties, manylandscaping professionals have vast experienceimproving properties through landscapedesign. Professional landscapers may have ahost of ideas for your property that you wouldnever think of. Homeowners with little to nolawn and garden experience may not realize allthe things they can do with their properties,and those who go it alone may end up withunappealing landscapes that do not attractbuyers’ attention when the home hits themarket. Professionals typically have a wealth ofideas and, perhaps more importantly, theyunderstand which ideas will and won’t work ona given property.• Professionals can remove some of the stressof managing landscaping projects.Homeowners know that home improvement

projects, whether they are addressing home interiors or exteriors, canbe stressful. Professional landscapers typically have a network ofprofessionals, including contractors, who they have worked with in thepast. Such connections can ensure more complex projects that requireboth landscapers and construction contractors go as smoothly aspossible. In addition, homeowners who receive contractorrecommendations from their experienced landscapers tend to resteasier knowing the people working on their properties have alreadydeveloped a rapport and established a successful track record workingtogether. Professional landscapers can be just what homeowners needto turn their properties into appealing oases no buyer can resist.

Gardening and Playing SafelyAround that Green Box in Your Yard


Homeowners understandably envy the award-worthy photo spreads in lawn andgarden magazines, wanting to emulate those same looks on their own properties. Scoresof designers and landscape architects are involved in the process of creating thoseamazing lush lawns and perfectly placed plantings. Although not every homeowner hasthe budget to create lavish landscape designs, it’s still possible for homeowners to createlawns they can be proud of.· Establish your budget. The first step in any project is to determine how much money youcan devote to the job. Once you have established the budget, all other factors can bebuilt around it.· Find an inspiration piece. Great landscapesare inspired by many things, whether it’s amemorable piece of art or a landscape layout ina lawn and gardening magazine. Use photos ofother gardens or neighbors’ yards as inspirationand build off of them. As long as the theme iscohesive, it will look pleasing to the eye.· Consider the space and how you want to useit. Understanding the space will help you betterallocate your budget. If your yard is more of aretreat, look for ways to create privacy and avacation feel. If you have kids and entertainingfriends is a main priority, focus on recreationalaspects, such as a pool, playset and somedurable plants. Understanding how to allocateyour budget will help you to avoid spendingmoney frivolously.· Think about reclaimed or repurposedmaterials. Brand new items can quickly eat up abudget. However, repurposing salvaged orinexpensive items can stretch that budget whileadding some unique flair to a landscape. See ifyou can find an outdoor patio set that someoneis giving away or selling for a lower price. All ittakes is a coat of paint and some new cushionsto make it look like new. Discarded bricks orstones can be worked into a patio space or usedto create raised garden beds. Purchaseinexpensive flower pots and then paint them tomake them look like stone or another desiredmaterial.· Buy native plants. Native plants, shrubs, trees,and flowers will fare better than non-native,exotic plants. That means you’ll have to spendless time and money nurturing them into health, and less money having to replace plantsthat cannot withstand your climate.· Consider perennial plants. Perennials may cost more at the outset, but the savings willbe realized in the years to come.· Hire a professional. It may seem counterintuitive to spend money on a landscaping

Create A Budget-FriendlyHome Landscape

professional when you’ve established a strict budget, but that’s one way to savemoney. Landscape artists or garden designers have the experience to guide you inthe right direction and help you avoid potentially costly mistakes.· Use gravel in spots where plants don’t thrive. Gravel is an inexpensive landscapingmaterial that can fill in voids where plants or ground cover simply do not flourish.Those working on limited budgets may be happy to learn gravel is typically lessexpensive than concrete or pavers.· Ask friends or family for clippings. Don’t be shy about admiring the plantings of

those you know. Flatter their good taste and ask if you can have some clippings topropagate yourself. These clippings can turn into lush plants in no time – with noadditional spending required.With some frugal spending, planning and budgeting, anyone can create a beautifullandscape.

At this time of year manyManitoba homeowners are itchingto get outside to begin working intheir yards. If you’re among thisgroup and if you’re planning anyproject that involves excavation –

Manitoba Hydro joinsClickBeforeYouDigMB.com

like digging postholes for a fence,planting shrubs, installing asprinkler system, or even putting ina new garden or flowerbed – findout the location of undergroundnatural gas and electrical lines

before you dig. This could saveyour life and the lives of thosearound you. Every year, homeowners andcontractors in Manitoba damageburied utility lines on their propertyor job sites resulting in costlyrepairs, injuries, lawsuits andtragically, even fatalities. Sadlythese accidents can be easilyprevented with a free line location. Recent changes to gas pipelineregulations have made it possiblefor Manitoba Hydro to be part ofthe ClickBeforeYouDigMB.comservice provided by the ManitobaCommon Ground Alliance. As aresult, a landowner can now alsorequest natural gas and electricalline locates, along with manyother utility locates, with oneonline request or phone call.

ClickBeforeYouDigMB.com is free,simple to use and available 24/7.Once an online request issubmitted and the locate isscheduled, Manitoba Hydro willmark underground natural gasand electrical lines free of charge,so work can proceed safely. You must send a locate requestto ClickBeforeYouDigMB.com at

least three full work days beforeyou intend to begin any projectthat involves excavation ordisturbing the ground deeper than15 cm. If you don’t have access to acomputer, you can callClickBeforeYouDigMB at 1-800-940-3447. Dig safe. Know what’sbelow.


Psalm 145:18-19... 18) The Lord is near to all who callon him, to all who call on him in truth. 19) He fulfills thedesires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and savesthem. Hebrews 9:27... Just as people are destined to dieonce, and after that to face judgment. (NIV) What is on the other side? How can we be sure what isbeing preached is true? What makes you so sure that thereis this wonderful place called heaven? “How do you knowthat this person, who was laid to rest, is really in the heavenas you talked about in your message?” Well! My answer sounds rather simple. I believe what theBible says about the miracle called Calvary. I believe thatJesus died for my sins and the sins of every person in theworld. I believe that He rose again on the third day. All wehave to do, is by faith, accept Him as our Lord and Saviour.Furthermore, the Bible promises that if we believe thatJesus Christ is the Son of God and that He did in fact die forour sins, and He rose from the dead, and if we confess withour mouth, that we have accepted this Biblical truth, we aresaved and on our way to heaven. The person who was just laid to rest made a publicconfession that they had accepted Jesus Christ as theirLord and Saviour, and based on that confession, I believewhat the Bible teaches and that person is indeed in a placecalled, “Paradise – Heaven man is destined to die once, andafter that to face judgment.” Reading these verses, andbelieving what the Bible says is true, we should live in sucha way that when it comes our time to die, we are ready toface a Holy God. What about the other side? Well, I believe that deathreally is not death if in a moment of time we leave this earthand enter Paradise. Nobody reading this column doubts thefact that we must all die. And we know that some are givenmany years to live. There are those who have had theprivilege of watching their children grow up. They have hadthe opportunity to share their life’s experience. They havebeen able to touch the lives of many people in manydifferent ways. They have had the opportunity to leave alegacy in both material things and spiritual things.However, one thing we have never been successful at, andthat is death... We must all die. But let’s for a moment look at death as a transition. Ourbody ceases to function. However, our spirit, the real youand me, does not die, but lives on. Now if that be true... andI believe it is... That means death according to the Bible ismerely a change from the physical to the spiritual. So thepart of us that died is this body of ours, but our spirit neverdies, it is eternal, and death brings us into the verypresence of The Living Holy God. There is another way to look at this issue. When we diethese weak human bodies of ours are changed into aperfect body fit for heaven. No more pain or suffering ofany kind. No more artificial knees or joints. But wait aminute, it gets better. No more sorrow or sadness. Oh whata day that will be never to grieve again, never to weep againbecause we will be in the very presence of Jesus ChristHimself in whom we have believed. No more doubts tobother us, to tempt us, you know the kind of thing that tugsat our most inner being. Also, remember the friends and family members that havepassed away? Well the Bible teaches that we will bereunited with them in glory because Christ has conquereddeath for Himself and for those of us who have put ourtrust in Him. A thought to consider. There will be no night in the city ofGod to frighten us because God has moved into ourneighbourhood to make His home among us. We are Hispeople and He is our God. He will wipe every tear from oureyes. He will make everything new. He promises to give tothe thirsty soul from the springs of the Water of Life freely...To God Be the Glory. Please pray with me . . . Heavenly Father you know myheart. I acknowledge that I’m a sinner. I now invite JesusChrist to come into my heart to forgive all my sins. I wantmy life to change. Many times my thoughts and attitudearen’t that great, please help me to have a positive attitudeand good thoughts. I pray that Your Holy Spirit will help meto be the kind of Christian that will bring honour to YourName. I pray this in Christ Jesus’ name. Amen.

What’sOn theOtherSide?


Have you ever thought much about the virtue of Patience? Patience is something we want everyoneelse to have especially toward us. But we ourselves struggle with it. Patience is defined as having thequality of enduring and waiting without complaining, all the time submitting calmly to thecircumstances. The virtue most of us display is impatience. We get upset when things don’t go our way, in ourtime, for our benefit. We got a new puppy recently in our home. First, there was the training to do her business outside.That understandably took a little time. Now she thinks our floors need redecorated with rocks,branches and any other treasure she finds in the yard. Someday, maybe, she’ll grow up. I’m not sureif our patience will hold out that long. Patience is needed in almost all areas of life. We need it in our marriage relationship and in raisingour children. It’s definitely an asset at work, when you’d like to take matters into your own hands andsolve problems your way. Patience is definitely an asset in community and church work. The word “patient” or “patience” occurs almost fifty times in the Bible and almost exclusively in theNew Testament. Maybe God realized patience would be more of a problem for us today than in OldTestament times. There are certain words and phrases attached to the idea of patience in the Biblethat help us understand it better. You’ve heard the old adage “Tribulation worketh patience.”Tribulation is ‘suffering affliction’ (trouble). It will test or ‘try your faith.’ The development ofpatience involves waiting and enduring, always learning and hoping that the experiences you arepresently going through will yield the fruit of patience at the end. It has always been an encouragement to remind myself that God allows all circumstances in ourlives. He allows them for a reason that we may never know this side of glory. But if God allows thingsin my life, then it’s for my good. I may not understand or even like what God’s doing, but if I’ll submitand surrender to Him, things will be better for me. I will develop patience as I trust and wait on God towork out my problems. There is one verse that sums up this idea of patience. James 1:4 says, “But let patience have herperfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” If I will allow God to work His workof patience in my life, then He will complete or perfect that which is lacking so that I end up a betterperson and am more content (wanting nothing). May God strengthen, encourage and bless you as you walk on your journey to get patience!!!

By Marianne Curtis

The St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP are keeping quiet on the details of an incidentin Grande Pointe on April 26, but they have confirmed that residents wereinstrumental in the apprehension of several suspects accused of breakinginto and stealing items from vehicles. St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP Staff Sergeant Rheal Gravel confirmed that arrestswere made in Grande Pointe. “The incident is still under investigation soI cannot comment on the details,” Gravel confirmed. “I cannot say whowas arrested or where they are from, only that they were under eighteen.” Grande Pointe resident Marc Casey said he was one of nearly a dozenlocal residents who helped police catch the underage culprits. “I was outchasing them and witnessed the arrest. Almost a dozen of us all told,between IDC and Grande Pointe put the run on them after they rammedmy dad’s car when he tried preventing them from getting away [after hewitnessed them go from car to car down our street, including his],” statedCasey. “They went from bicycle to car to quad to foot and finally theRCMP caught up with them. I hope these are the same ones who havebeen causing trouble all along.” “I was a part of chasing them early this morning,” added Lucy Thornhill.“The RCMP would not have caught them on their own if it wasn’t for helpfrom the Grande Pointe community.” Gravel confirmed his detachment is investigating a rash of vehicle break-ins in Ile des Chenes, Lorette, St. Adolphe and Niverville that have takenplace over the past few months. In Niverville, residents are installinghome surveillance systems to aid police with footage of break-ins inprogress. “We’ve seen people in the past come in from the City; these are plannedbreak-ins,” Gravel continued. “Many of these are planned break-ins. Theycome out, look for vulnerable areas and go from house to house.” He would not confirm if the kids apprehended in the Grande Pointeincident were local. “We are still investigating,” he responded. Gravel said the best way residents can protect themselves is throughpreventative measures such as keeping their vehicles locked and notleaving valuables in plain sight. He also suggests getting to knowneighbours in order to identify who belongs in the community.

On April 27, the City of Steinbach tested its emergency notification service,Steinbach Alert Now, by sending residents and businesses a test message. Onlyresidents signed up for the Steinbach Alert Now service, having a publishedlocal Steinbach number, or a phone number on file at the City received thenotification. “This is our first real test of the system and we’re doing it for two reasons,”said Denis Vassart, the City’s Emergency Planning Coordinator. “First, wewant to try out the system to make sure our processes work; second, we wantresidents to know that even if they receive the notification, it’s up to them tomaintain their emergency contact information in the system.” During the test notification, residents and businesses received a combinationof email, voice and text messages, along with instructions on how to confirmreceipt of the messages. Responses would also gauge how many people wereinformed of the situation, Vassart added. It also served as a reminder forsubscribers to update their accounts. People who received a test notification on their home or business phone, arereminded to sign up so the City can contact them using the most efficientmethod. By signing up at steinbachalertnow.ca, residents and businesses canspecify if they want text message, email or a phone call. “The service is only as good as the contact information we have,” saidVassart. “By signing up, it ensures you will be included and made aware of anemergency in the City, such as a tornado warning, flooding or major fire. TheSteinbach Alert Now system may have your home phone number, but what ifyou aren’t at home? Ideally, you could also be contacted on your cell phone, bya text or an email.” Of course, there are residents and businesses that will not receive a testnotification at all. Vassart hopes that friends and family that received a notification will encouragethese residents to sign up as soon as possible. Signing up is the only way toguarantee notifications during an emergency. This was the first time the City of Steinbach has sent out a test notificationsince implementing the Steinbach Alert Now service last September. Bi-annualtesting will be conducted once in the spring and in the fall.

On May 10, the community is invited to participate in the Accueil KateriCentre Inc.’s first annual general meeting. The Ste. Anne foodbank, otherwise known as the Accueil Kateri CentreInc, is located in the Knights of Columbus Hall. Staffed with local volunteersthe facility, which opened a year ago, has been addressing the unfortunateneed in the community. The organizations first annual general meeting takes place at the Knights ofColumbus Hall in Ste. Anne starting at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome and newmemberships will be accepted.

The Virtueof Patience

Grand Pointe ResidentsAssist in Arrests

Steinbach TestsEmergency System

Ste. Anne Foodbank to Host First AGM


Manitoba Hydro has issued awarning about a current furnacescam affecting customersthroughout the province. Fraudulent solicitors have beengoing door-to-door, claiming to beaffiliated with Hydro. They insiston checking the furnace inside thehome. They then offer to rent thehomeowner a new furnace forzero percent financing and suggestthat it could be added to theirManitoba Hydro bill. Reports have been submitted toManitoba Hydro from Lorette, Iledes Chenes and Landmark. “Thereis a group going door to door inLorette stating that your furnaceneeds replacing as it’s notefficient,” confirmed RM of TacheCouncillor Steve Stein. Manitoba Hydro is not involvedin such a program, and adviseshomeowners to deny entry. While Manitoba Hydroemployees do go door-to-doorperiodically for various reasons,they always carry an officialidentification card with their nameand photo. If someone asks toenter your home claiming to be

The Steinbach Arts Council is offering a 10% discount on all its Summer Arts Day Camp registrationsuntil May 9. This year camps are arranged in two age groups, ages 5 - 8 and ages 9 -12. Day camp programs includechoices of music, drama, dance, crafts, sports, field trips and more. Day Camps run from July 4 - August 19. Call the SAC Office at 204-346-1077 to register or for more information. You can also read more atsteinbachartscouncil.ca.

Manitoba Hydro Warns Publicof Furnace Scam

with Manitoba Hydro, ask fortheir name and to see their IDcard. If you have any doubts aboutsomeone who claims torepresent, or be affiliated withManitoba Hydro, ask for thename of the person and thebusiness and contact 1-888-624-9376 before allowing theindividual into your home. Homeowners purchasing anew furnace should also get atleast three quotes fromreputable vendors so they cancompare prices and service. If you believe you haveencountered, or are a victim offraudulent solicitation, contactthe Manitoba ConsumerProtection Office at 1-800-782-0067, the Canadian Anti-FraudCentre at 1-888-495-8501, ormake a report to your localpolice department.

Summer Arts Day Camp Offers Early Bird Registration


By Marianne Curtis

During the month of April, theannual spring festival thatcelebrates history and tree sapsugar took place in St. Pierre-Jolys at the Cabane Sucre. The annual Sugaring Off Partytook place April 9 and 10 in theCabane à Sucre, which is locatedat the Musée de Saint-Pierre-Jolys Muséum in St. Pierre-Jolys. Each year, visitors from all overthe province attend the festival,which is designed to celebratelocal history and the tradition oftapping Maple sap to makesyrup and maple butter. Rolly Gagnon, one of theorganizers of the event,explained the event started as afundraiser for the St. PierreMuseum. “We needed to pay offthe mortgage, and raise somecash so some of our elders cameup with the idea to hold thefestival,” Gagnon explained.“We’ve been holding the festivalsince then.” As part of the celebrations,visitors to the Cabane Sucrewere shown how to properly tapa Maple tree for the sweetnessinside, witness the dehydrating

On April 3, Steinbach RCMP received a report of a stolen quad froma property on Barkman Avenue in Steinbach. The theft occurredsometime during the previous night. The quad is a black Polaris 2013Ranger RZR XP 900. On April 9, Steinbach RCMP received a report of two stolen quadsfrom a property on Simard Street in La Broquerie. The theft occurredsometime during the previous night. The quads are two green camoYamaha 2013 YFM700 Grizzlies. On April 14, the Steinbach RCMP responded to a report of a stolenvan from a residence on Hanover Street in Steinbach. The van wasstolen sometime between April 13 and April 14. The van is a grey 2004Chevrolet Venture bearing Manitoba Licence Plate HFG 341. If you have any information in regards to the above theft you areasked to contact the Steinbach RCMP Detachment at (204) 326-4452or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or manitobacrimestoppers.com ortext “TIPMAN” plus your message to Crimes (274637).

Steinbach detachment received a dispatch of a single vehicle rollover onHighway 1 at Rd 39E, just east of the Paradise Village turnoff. Investigationdetermined that a pickup truck from Ontario was travelling westboundwhen the driver appeared to fall asleep and slowly drifted into the medianditch rolling several times before coming to rest on the passenger side ofthe vehicle. A 23-year-old male passenger from Winnipeg was pinned inside the cabof the truck requiring extrication by Ste. Anne Fire Department. STARSambulance was contacted to transport to the victim to Health ScienceCentre in Winnipeg. The male was later reported to be in stable conditionalthough with critical injuries. The male driver and a female passenger sustained minor injuries andwere both transported to Ste. Anne Hospital for observation. Both werefrom the Kenora area. Alcohol was not a factor in the collision.

Sugaring Off Party DrawsCrowds to St. Pierre-Jolys

Visitors at the festival could check out an authentic voyageur camp that was set up on thegrounds during the weekend event.

process first hand and then giventhe opportunity to sample thefinished product. In addition, the weekend eventwas full of activities, includingtaffy on snow, an interpretivecentre demonstrating theproduction of maple syrup, horse

wagon rides, museum tours,fiddling contest, traditionalFrench-Canadian dining and localentertainment. Today’s Parent Magazine haslisted the Cabane Sucre Festival inthe top 10 sugaring off festivalsacross Canada.

RCMP SeekBrazen Thieves

STARS Dispatched toRollover on TransCanada


EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT TO [email protected] OR FAX 204-422-8548COMMUNITY EVENTS

FriedensfeldCelebrate the Arts In Shades of White – On Friday, May 6 atthe Community Centre. Cocktails at 5:30pm, a delicious fullcourse meal and exciting entertainment at 6:30 pm, JewelleryTombola, Dance with F&R Music to end the night withprofessional photographers to capture every glamorousmoment. Tickets $115 each, Table $800 for 8. Contact 204-346-1077 to reserve your table.

GirouxBingo - Every Thursday at Giroux Hall. Doors open at 5 pm,Bingo starts at 7 pm. Hall rental information for Socials,weddings, family functions, Meetings and more please callDebbie 204-424-5506 or Mike 204-326-6260.

GrunthalGymkhana – On Friday, May 27, at 6:30 pm at the Ag grounds.Registration will take place prior to the event from 5 – 6 pm.An awesome warm up event to kick off the Heartland Rodeoon Saturday and Sunday. Canteen open. Cost $5 per person.

Rough Stock Riding School - On Friday and Saturday, May 27- 28 at the Ag grounds. Providing safe instruction in Bull Riding,Steer Riding and Bullfighting, from Beginner to Intermediatelevels. Space Limited to 15 for Bull & Steer Riding, 5 for BullFighting. Reserve your spot by May 1. Cost $300. $150 non-refundable deposit required.

Heartland Spring Rodeo – On Saturday, May 28 from 4:30 -7:30 pm and Sunday, May 29 starting at 9 am. A mouth-watering chicken barbecue on Saturday and dance to followat 8pm.

HadashvilleTae Kwon Do - Every Wednesday at 6 pm at the HadashvilleCommunity Club (Reynolds Recreational Centre) from 6 yearsold to adults. Pursue a black belt or learn new skills, greatstress release and have an excellent workout at the sametime. Cost after registration fee is $40/month per person. Askabout 2 week free trial. Contact Shelly at 204-426-5266 [email protected].

Ile-des-ChênesThinking Green Initiatives Open House – On Tuesday, May 3from 7 - 8:30 pm at the Ecole Gabrielle Roy hosted by RM ofRitchot. Join us to learn about our community-garden boxes,composting program (composters for sale) and cost sharingfor tree planting on municipal right of ways. Unable to attendcontact Amber at [email protected] or 204-803-6115.

Block Therapy – On Thursdays until May 26 from 7 - 8 pm inthe Trans Canada Centre (2nd Floor). Cost $56 for the fullsession or $10 for a drop in. Contact Joanne [email protected], jmhwellness.com.

IDC Youth Art Club – On Tuesdays until May 24 at 7 - 8 pm inthe Trans Canada Centre. Ages 9 - 15 yrs, Cost $15. Contact PatLloyd 204-275-8101, 204-396-5052 or [email protected].

Story Time in Pyjamas - Every Thursday evening at the RitchotLibrary Ecole Regional Gabrielle-Roy at 6:30 pm. Ages 2-8however all ages are welcome.

50+ Programs - At the Trans Canada CentreIndoor Walking - Mondays, Wednesday and Friday 9 – 10 amYoga - Monday 10 -11 amCoffee Talk - Wednesday 10 - 11 amBlock Therapy - Tuesday 10 - 11 amWater Colour Painting – Thursday 10 - 11:30 amLine Dancing - Thursday 7 - 8 pmFloor Curling - Friday 10 am – 12 pmContact to register Mary [email protected], 204-339-6141.

Our Lady of the Roses Prayer Group – Meets on the first Saturdayof every month, at 6:30 pm to recite the Rosary and learn aboutOur Lady of the Roses, Mary Help of Mothers and receive BlessedRose Petals and other Sacramentals from Blessed Mother’splace of miracles. Contact Corinna 204-878-4908 or email herat [email protected] for more info and register.

KleefeldCommunity Playgroup - For parents, caregivers and childrenup to age 5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songsand snacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at theKleefeld Rec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013.

La BroquerieCommunity Clean Up Day – On Saturday, May 7. Registrationat the arena between 9 am and 2 pm. Lunch voucher provided.Bring your own water bottle. Gloves and garbage bags provided.

Dinner, Silent Auction Fundraiser – On Sunday, May 15 from4 - 6:30 pm at the Frantz Motor Inn, hosted by the DistrictSchools Heritage Association/Willow Plain Municipal HeritageSchool Museum. Dinner, silent auction, and 50/50 fundraiser.Cost $22 per person. All are welcome. A 135-page genealogybook of Sarto community pioneers and descendants living inthe area will be available for purchase. Contact [email protected] or 204-453-4041.

Seine River Services for Seniors- Health Centre/Centre de Santéfrom Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm. Services and programsfor seniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment,foot care, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yardmaintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games.Contact Community Resource Coordinator Juliette Rowan, 204-424-5285 or [email protected]. Shopping Trips toWinnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursday of the month,leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’s ClearspringCentre every last Thursday of the month, from 10 am - 1 pm.Cost $10.

LoretteA Grief Support Group - On Saturday mornings until Saturday,June 25 in Notre Dame de Lorette Parish. Providing educationon the grieving and mourning processes for individuals whohave lost a loved one. 10 weekly meetings of 2 hours perweek. Group size limited to 6 participants. Facilitator isMaryanne Rumancik and we will be following the programfound in Understanding Your Grief: Ten Essential Touchstonesfor Finding Hope and Healing Your Heart by Dr. Alan Wolfelt.Suggested donation to cover book costs is $45. Registrationdeadline Saturday, April 9. Contact Fr. Charles Fillion 204-878-2221 or Maryanne Rumancik 204-878-3901. Exactmeeting time TBA.

New Horizons Seniors - Play cards, Scrabble and more. Dropin Tuesdays 1-5 pm at Foyer Notre Dame Lorette 12 St.AmantAve. Contact Iris 204-878-3552.

MiddelbroBake and Craft Sale - On Saturday, May 14 from 9 am - 3 pmat the Community Hall on Main Street. A wide selection ofcrafts, baking, house goods, bedding and many other uniqueitems. Contact 204-437-2415. Also, 3 tables are left to rent.Kitchen is open for snacks and lunch. Admission free.

NivervillePancake Breakfast – On Saturday, May 14 from 9 am - 12 pmat the south end of Arena. Cost is by donation. Pancakesprepared by the Niverville Firefighters. Children’s Activities. Allare welcome!

Volunteers Needed – For Friday and Saturday, June 10 -11 forthe Niverville Olde Tyme Country Fair. Sign up now to get yourpreferred shift for the following: wristband sales, fence andtable set up/tear down, volunteer tent or food service. Anyonewho signs up for a volunteer shift before May 10 is entered ina draw to win one of 50 free wristbands! [email protected] or Amanda at 204-388-9660.See you at the Fair!

The Crow Wing Toastmasters Club – Meets every Monday at7:30 pm at the Niverville Heritage Centre. If you want to becomea better speaker, run meetings that are more effective ordevelop leadership skills, a Toastmasters Club is the place tostart. Contact Sheryl Berglund, [email protected].

GriefShare - If you or someone you know has experienced theloss of a loved one we wish to help, you get support and learnabout the grieving process. Contact 204-381-1155 to registeror go to Nivervillegriefshare.com.

Moms N’ Tots Playgroup - Moms with children up to age six.Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 11:30 am located in thelower level of Fourth Avenue Bible Church (62-4th Avenue S.)Free drop-in program with coffee and snacks provided, alongwith a large open space for the kids to play while the momsvisit. Contact Karen at [email protected].

PansySpring Supper & Dance – On Saturday May 7 at the Hall. Doorsopen 5 pm, perogy supper 6 pm with live band Nite Winds at7:30 p.m., silent auction 10:30 pm hosted by St. Michael’sParish. Cost advance tickets, adults $15 (supper) or $20 (supper& dance), kids under 12 $10, under 6 yrs free. Contact Olga204-434-6660, Leonard 204-434-6078, Leanne 204-427-2996.

PrawdaCircuit 30 - Alternate aerobic and weight exercises, with cooldown and stretch exercises. Wear comfortable clothing, cleanrunners, and bring a bottle of water. Cost $2/class, Mondaysand Thursdays at 7 pm, in the Reynolds School Gym. ContactWendy 204-348-2433.

Busy Bodies Playgroup – Every Wednesday from 9 - 11 am atthe Reynolds School Gym. Free to parents and children. Snacksprovided. Contact Cassie 204-793-8290.

RicherAGM Seine River Services for Seniors’ – On Thursday, May 19at 11:30 am at the Richer Young at Heart Community Centre.Includes a luncheon to acknowledge our great volunteersfollowed by the AGM at 1 pm. Includes entertainment, guestspeaker on wills (is yours up to date) and door prizes. Everyonewelcome to join. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285before May 13.

Community Wide Garage Sale – From Friday, May 27 – Sunday,May 29. Lots of great deals available all over town. Everyonewelcome!

Ride for Mom – On Saturday, June 4 hosted by the EastmanATV Association Inc. in support of the Canadian Breast CancerFoundation. Registration $40 per ATV or Side by Side and $10per extra rider. Check in at 8 am at the Maple Inn Lot StagingSite, just past Geppetto’s on Hwy 1, East. The new 80-km trailis the first of its kind built on Crown Land, in the beautifulSandilands. Sure to impress! Includes a delicious OriginalPancake House Breakfast with Maple Leaf Sausages and aHot Cup of McDonalds Coffee and at the halfway point, Danny’sWhole Hog, Pork on a Bun with their Famous BBQ Sauces,Chips and a Cold Drink. Registration also puts your name intoa draw for the chance to win a great door prize! A 50/50 draw,amazing Silent Auction Prize Baskets, Sponsorship, andDisplays from Major Dealerships. Contact to register online ateastmanatvassociation.com.

Richer Recovery AA - Group meets Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 pmat LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Paul at 204-422-7673.

Monday Night Bingos - To raise funds for Stacey PchajekMemorial Foundation Inc. The foundation providesscholarships, bursaries and prizes to students graduatinggrades 8 and 12. Children under 14 must be accompanied byan adult to be on premises and must play bingo. Doors Openat 5:30 pm at the Young at Heart Club, 22 Dawson Rd. MGCCLicense # BI/BO4164. Contact Doreen Pchajek at 422-5243or [email protected].

Roseau RiverFish Fry Supper - On Sunday, May 15 from 4 – 7 pm at theRoseau River Park. Cost Adults $12, Children 5 - 12 $5, under5 eat free.

SpragueSprague & District Historical Museum - Open by appointmentfrom June – September 30. Explore life as it was in the earlydays. Free Admission Donations Accepted. Contact 204-437-2210, 204-437-2209 or 204-437-4686.

St. AdolpheTownwide Garage, Craft Sale, & Freebies – On Saturday, May14 and Sunday, May 15.

Old Tyme Dance – On Sunday, May 14 from 7 – 11 pm at theCommunity Centre Pioneer Hall. Cost $13 per person.

50+ Programs Programs at Ritchot Senior Services Active LivingCentre 457 Main St.Moving - Mondays 9:30 amYoga Fusion - Wednesday 10:30 amFirm Up – Fridays 9:30 am10-class pack for $40 or drop in fee $5 per class. ContactJanice at [email protected] or 204-883-2880.

Weekly Bingo – On Tuesday nights at the St. AdolpheCommunity Club. Doors open at6 pm, 6:55 pm - Speedo Game, 7 pm - Early Bird Games, 7:30pm - Regular Games. We hope to see you there! Proceeds willsupport the Community Club.

St. MaloSponge Puck Hockey – On Wednesdays at 8 pm at the arena.Come out and play for fun. Contact Gilles 204-347-5079.

St. Pierre-JolysRat River Quilt Show – On Saturday, May 7 from 10 am- 4 pmat the St. Pierre Collegiate, 515 Hebert St N. Over 100 quilteditems displayed; rainbow auction, mini-market, coffee & lunch,handmade quilt raffle, People’s Choice Awards. Cost $2. Contact204-433-7449 or [email protected].

Step Aerobics with Weights - On Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm, at the ICSP School Gym. Contact Stephanie 204-320-2667, Louise 204-433-3839 or The Health Corner 204-433-3891.

Diabetes Educational Resource Centre – On 2nd Thursday ofthe month from 1:30 - 3:30 pm at the DeSalaberry DistrictHealth Centre. Contact 204-346-6254.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression, bipolar,post partum mood disorders support group meetings held onthe last Monday of each month at 7 pm at the Chalet Malouinboardroom. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital.Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

Ste. AgatheThinking Green Initiatives Open House – On Tuesday, May 10from 7 - 8:30 pm at the Ste. Agathe School hosted by RM ofRitchot. Join us to learn about our community-garden boxes,composting program (composters for sale) and cost sharingfor tree planting on municipal right of ways. Unable to attendcontact Amber at [email protected] or 204-803-6115.

Ritchot Chamber Networking Event - Practicing Your 30 secsSales Pitch & Business Card Exchange – On Tuesday, May 17from 7 – 8:30 pm at Ste-Agathe Cartier Park – FloodInterpretive Centre/Picnic Shelter. Network with fellow ChamberMembers and new members, exchange business cards, andtalk about opportunities in Ritchot and beyond. Cost free.Contact Lesley [email protected] or call/text 204-803-2871.

Taekwondo - Every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:15 - 7:30 pmat Ecole Sainte Agathe hosted by Kang’s Taekwondo Academy.Cost $40/month. Family rates available. Contact JasonBarnabe, [email protected] or 204-802-3458.

Ste. AnnePublic Meeting – On Tuesday, May 10 at 7 pm for AccueilKateri Centre, Inc. (foodbank) at the Knights of ColumbusHall, 132 Central Ave. Everyone welcome and new membershipsaccepted. Contact Guy 204-422-5408 or 204-346-2049.

Hospital Family Health Walk – On Saturday, June 4 from10:30 am - 1:30 pm at the Hospital Grounds. Hospital Fundraiserincludes a 4 km family walk, followed by a picnic lunch withoutdoor activities for all ages, including the chance to see aFire Truck! Contact to register fondshopitalsteanne.ca/health-walk/ and download pledge form. Registration is free. Doorprizes and grand prizes to be won for most money raised!

Ste. Anne Cultural Committee - Invites artists of all kinds totheir weekly open houses at 112 Centrale Ave. on Tuesdaysfrom 9 - 11:30 am and Wednesdays from 7 - 8:30 pm. Thesegatherings are to bring artists together to work on and discusstheir craft and there is no cost to attend. Contact Diane at 204-422-9599 or email [email protected].

Seine River Services for Seniors – Services and programs forseniors. Income Tax help, Lifeline, mobility equipment, footcare, hair care, transportation, home maintenance, yardmaintenance, Telecheck, E.R.I.K. program, puzzles and games.Shopping Trips to Winnipeg’s St.Vital Mall every first Thursdayof the month, leaving at 10 am - 3 pm. Cost $15. Steinbach’sClearspring Centre every last Thursday of the month, from 10am - 1 pm. Cost $10. Contact Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285Community Resource Coordinator for local services or [email protected].

Ste. GenevièveLibrary Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the CommunityCentre on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 - 8 pm,brings a large selection of books in both French and English,for children and adults. Special requests can be made to thelibrarian, bibliotachelibrary.com or in person. Come for a visitand see what we are all about.

SteinbachStonebridge Community Garage Sale – On Saturday, May 7from 9 am - 6:30 pm. Many garage sales all in oneneighbourhood all the way to the east end of StonebridgeCrossing, including Coral Cove, to Granite Park Boulevard andCastlerock Cove.

Asian Canadian Festival - On Sunday, May 8 from 1:30 - 4 pmat the Mennonite Heritage Village. To celebrate Asian HeritageMonth, acknowledging the long, rich history and traditions ofAsian Canadians and their contributions to Canada that hashelped Canada become the multicultural and diverse nationit is today. Everyone is invited.

Steinbach & Area Garden Club Meeting - On Monday, May 9,7 pm at the Mennonite Heritage Village. Speaker, BrendaNewton, daylily hybridizer and gardener from Brandon.“Daylillies: Queen for a Day”. Come learn about the daylily’sfascinating anatomy, culture, best varieties and how to breedthem. Brenda will also bring Plants for Sale, daylilies, hostas,Siberian Iris, heuchera, hens & chicks and many more, atreasonable prices. Plant Exchange for members only. Bring aplant(s); take a plant(s). Everyone welcome! Refreshments.Door prizes All are welcome. Non-members $5. Contactsagardenclub.com.

Summer Arts Day Camp – Early Bird registration until Monday,May 9 - get 10% off. Camp for ages 5 - 8 and ages 9 – 12. 7New Themes: Aloha Summer, Wild Wild West, Land BeforeTime Spy Kid, Welcome to the Carnival, The Mighty Jungle andThe Great Outdoors. Contact Steinbach Arts Council at 204-346-1077 to register.

Indigenous Peoples and the Land in Southeastern Manitoba– On Saturday, May 14 at 7 pm in the Steinbach RegionalSecondary School Theatre. First Annual Local History Lectures:“The Manitoba Act, the Métis, and the Mennonites: a tale oftwo reserves” Gerhard John Enns, U of Alberta, and“Anishinaabe Understandings of Treaty #1” DarrenCourchene, U of Manitoba, Sagkeeng First Nation. Cost isFree.

Let’s Run – On Saturday, May 14 at 8:30 am. Participate in the9th annual 10km/5km/2km running event to build and supportthe running community and promote healthy lifestyle choicesfor individuals and families. Events for all abilities and ages.Proceeds to support 2 local charities; Steinbach Family ResourceCentre and Recreation Opportunities for Children (ROC). Contactwebsite letsrunsteinbach.ca.Sun., May 15/Steinbach

Shake, Rattle & Read – On Saturday, May 14 from 10:30 – 11:30 am at the Jake Epp Library. A literacy and movement programfor toddlers (ages 2-4) and their parents! Encourages earlymovement & co-ordination, promotes positive attitudes towardphysical activities. Cost is Free. Limited Spots. Advanced signup is required.

MS Society Walk - On Sunday, May 15, check-in 1 pm; starttime 2 pm for 2.5 km or 5 km at the Pat Porter Active LivingCentre, 10 Chrysler Gate. Contact to register at

[email protected] or call 1-800-268-7582.

Annual Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit – Exhibit runs untilWednesday, May 18 at 304 Second Street, Cultural Arts Centre.This year a showcase of over 120 entries of juvenile and adultoriginal local artwork featuring photography, pencil drawings,watercolour and acrylic paintings, sculpture, and pottery toname a few.

ATV Awareness Day – On Saturday, May 28 with the SoutheastATV Association at the Mennonite Heritage Village at 2361Hwy 12. All welcome.

Lions Car Show – On Sunday, June 5 at 11:30 am at theMennonite Heritage Village. Come see antique and restoredshow vehicles displayed on our village streets. The day isorganized by the Steinbach Lions Club. Cost $10.

2016 Power Smart Manitoba Summer Games – From Sunday,August 7 – Saturday, August 13. Volunteer to have fun, toexperience a great time and to participate in the province’slargest ongoing multi-sport program. Looking for 1,000volunteers to welcome kids ages 10 - 17 from across theprovince. It is a great opportunity to meet new people, builda sense of community and gain experience. There are variousvolunteer opportunities; something for everyone. Volunteerregistration at manitobagames.ca. Come join in the fun. Dreamit! Live it! Contact the Games Office at 204-371-1212 [email protected].

Eastman Safety Upcoming Programs: Located at 385 LoewenBlvd. Register online at eastmansafety.ca or contact 1-204-371-1595.

Eastman Immigrant Services - Many events and activities tosupport and help you make new friends. Start to make thiscommunity feel like your home. Volunteer to help at ourcommunity events. To register contact 204-346-6609,[email protected] Events: Cultures in the Kitchen -Submit your recipe.Help us create an amazing ethnic cookbook.Let’s Chat – Informal conversation group that meets everyWednesday 1:30 – 2:30 pm.Pronunciation Skills – Intermediate Pronunciation on Mondayand Wednesday from 5 – 7 pm. Advanced Pronunciation onMonday and Wednesday from 7 – 9 pm at D4-284 Reimer Ave.Classes are free.Hip Hop – Every Tuesday for youth ages 8-15.

Mommies Group at Kidzone - On Wednesdays, from 9 am - 1pm. Come by to meet other moms to chat with and get yourkids to make some new friends. Cost $7, free coffee.

Creativi-Tea Time - Need to relax and have some you time?Give adult colouring a try. Event runs the second Wednesdayof every month, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the Jake Epp Library.Come and go as it suits you. We’ll provide basic supplies(including tea and coffee.

Games Day & Games Night – Every 1st Saturday from 12 – 5pm every month and 3rd Wednesday every month from 6 –8:30 pm, at the Jake Epp Library. Come down to play strategygames. Bring a friend, your strategies and games. Test yourskills and have fun. Ages 14 and up unless accompanied byan adult. Contact 204-326-6841,[email protected].

Canadian Legion - On 1st Tuesday every month at 8 pm andLadies Auxiliary meets 1st Monday of each month at 7:30 pmat the Steinbach Legion Community Hall, 294 Lumber Ave.

Craft Sale, Flea Market & Bake Sale – Saturday, May 7 from9 am – 3:30 pm at the Steinbach Legion Hall. Host by theLadies Auxiliary. There will be crafters, seamstresses, jewelrymakers and other artisans from across the southeast displayingtheir unique creations. All day canteen featuring hot mealsand freshly baked pies. For more information contact Lori at204-346-4222 or [email protected].

Adult Book Club - Tuesdays from 7 – 9 pm. Bring book sug-gestions or peruse our book lists. Meet some other book loverstoo and bring a friend. At the Jake Epp Library 255 Elmdale St.Contact Tracey Pankratz [email protected].

Steinbach Girl Guides - Every Tuesday at the United Church ofSteinbach, 541 Main St. Registration for girls 5-17. Developpersonal values and well-being, self-respect and respect forothers; promote fun, friendship, adventure and challengesthrough new experiences; develop leadership and decision-making skills; give service to the community; value the naturalenvironment.

Green Drinks South Eastman - South Eastman Transition Ini-tiative presents Green Drinks South Eastman. On the 3rd Tues-day of every month at 7 pm at Lecoka, 8B - Brandt Street. Dropin and discuss sustainable living. [email protected].

The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noonexcept when Monday falls on a long weekend at the ChickenChef, 365 Main Street, visitors are welcome. Contact Cornie at326-3155.

Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for familyand friends of people with mental health issues are held the


On May 1, the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre in Ile des Chenes hosted their first annual open house fundraiser. The afternoon event took place at the TransCanada Centre, followed by the organization’s annual general meeting. Hundreds of people came out for the event, which gave them an opportunity to visit with the many facility ambassadors. Visitors alsotoured the current facilities and the new building.

The Village of St. Pierre-Jolys isholding a public hearing on May 5to discuss the community’swastewater lagoon expansionproject. The Village is proposing to expandthe current sewage treatmentlagoon, which has reached itscapacity in order to meet theprovincial and federal water qualitystandards. Mayor Mona Fallis said thelagoon is a huge issue for thecommunity. “We’ve had a three yearmoratorium on construction so nota lot has happened in recent years.We need to expand our lagoon,”explained Fallis. “Once this is done,we expect people to move back toSt. Pierre and we want to make surethey feel at home and want to stayand raise their kids here.” The hearing is taking place at theSugar Shack, on Joubert Street, St.Pierre-Jolys starting at 7 pm. At thattime, council will hear from taxpayerswho wish to make a representation,as questions or register an objectionto the improvement plan. The local improvement tax requiredto service debt to be issued underthis project will be levied against alltaxable, grant-in-lieu, otherwiseexempt properties within the Village. Council estimates it will cost $2.6million for the expansion project. According to council, ManitobaWater Services Board has alreadyconfirmed a $400,000 contribution,with another $900,000 to beconfirmed. The Village would needto borrow the remaining $1.3 million. Under the proposed project, aresident with a home valued at$100,000 would pay an additional$93.15 annually in local improvementtax over a 25-year period.

Niverville racecar driver, DavidRichert kicked off the EurocupFormula Renault season in front of51,000 spectators in hot and sunnyconditions April 16 and 17 with 3races in Spain at the MotorlandAragon race circuit. Richert’s weekend got off to adifficult start after a 160km/h, high-speed spin during qualificationsdamaged his tires causing asignificant vibration in the car forRace 1. After battling through thevibration, he managed a 20th placefinish. “Obviously the spin in qualifyingwas not ideal, but I’m very happywith the steady progress we madethroughout the event,” Richertrecalled. “In fact, I believe my fastestlap time of the weekend was the verylast lap of the last race, so I’mconfident we can compete with thisgroup of drivers and slowly workour way up the field. Now my mindhas already shifted to Monaco asthat’s going to be an absolutelyunbelievable experience.” His second race proved anadventurous one as rain began to

2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden Eastbuilding, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or [email protected]

MS Monthly Self-Help group meeting - for people living withmultiple sclerosis. The group meets on the second Thursdayevening of each month from 6 - 7 pm at Fernwood Placeapartments. Contact Nadine Konyk, Rural Client Services Co-ordinator at 1-800-268-7582 or [email protected].

MS Lunch Group- On 4th Thursday of every month, from 12 –1 pm at All D’s Restaurant 320 Main Street. Contact StephanieBevacqua 204-988-0904,[email protected].

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and sup-port groups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety,stress, bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotionalconcerns. Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at JakeEpp Library from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.

The Bethesda Regional Healthcare Auxiliary - meets on thefirst Tuesday of every month except for the months of July andAugust at the Bethesda Hospital. We welcome anyone inter-ested in auxiliary work. Contact Verna Thiessen at 326-3028.

Steinbach and Area Lions Club - Meets on the second andfourth Wednesdays of every month at the Magnolia Restau-rant. Contact 204-326-2313.

Carillon Toastmasters - meetings are open to adults who wantto improve their leadership and communication skills. Thurs-days at 7 pm at the Jake Epp Public Library 255 Elmdale Street,Contact Sheryl at 204-326-7628 or Irene at 204-424-5737.

Al-Anon Program – Meets on Mondays at 7:30 pm at theCultural Arts Centre back door, downstairs. Contact Lloyd 204-326-4365.

Al-Anon 12 Step Recovery Group - Meets on Wednesdays at7:30 pm at United Church, 541 Main St, front door, ring door-bell. All are welcome.

Young moms to be - Bi-weekly support group starts at 4:30 pmat Steinbach Family Resource Centre B-11, Hwy 12N. Contact204-346-0413.

WoodmoreYard/Craft/Bake Sale - On Saturday, May 14 from 9 am – 4 pmat the Woodmore Hall, 1 mile north of Hwy. 201 on road 24E.Silent auction, light lunch, and a collection of vendors for allages and baking to make your mouth water! Contact 204-427-2431.

WoodridgeT.O.P.S -Taking Off Pounds Sensibly - On the second Wednes-day of every month at the Community Club. For club hours ofoperation, contact Stan 204-429-2253.

The Mobile Clinic – Is onsite on the third Thursday of everymonth from 9 am – 4 pm at the Community Club. Contact forappointments 1-855-644-3515 or southernhealth.ca.

ZhodaSpring Dance – On Saturday, May 14 from 8 pm – 1 am at theCommunity Hall. Cost $15.

GeneralFree Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- On Tues-days, May 17 and June 14 from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Join us fora great day of fun and friendship. Visit McPhillips Street Sta-tion in the morning and Club Regent in the afternoon. Startingat 8:30 am, pick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and ParadiseVillage. Must be 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cashgiveaways every trip. Bingo played on the bus to and from thecasinos for those wishing to play. Bi-monthly overnight trips toSouth Beach Casino and Folklorama trips are also available,amazing prices on these trips so call for details. Contact Marilynat 204-326-4939 for information and to reserve your seat.

MayHearing forSt. PierreLagoon

Richert Debuts in Spain’s Eurocupfall around the circuit and caughtmany drivers by surprise withconditions changing drastically fromlap to lap. Richert was able toimprove his result from the first raceby finishing 18th in Race 2.

Richert’s finishing result in Race3, 22nd, was not indicative of thethrilling battle; he had with Americandriver, David Porcelli. Richert andPorcelli traded quick lapsthroughout the race, which

eventually saw Porcelli cross thefinish line just eight tenths of asecond ahead of Richert. Richert’s next race will take placein Monte Carlo at the luxuriousMonaco Grand Prix from May 26-29.

David Richert on track during the Eurocup Formula Renault race weekend. Photo provided by Richert Racing

Wildlife Haven Hosts FirstPublic Open House



During spring break at the end ofMarch, Master Tam of the LoretteBranch, Kang?s TaekwondoAcademy hosted a seminar andworkshop on women’s self-defence, which included achildren’s safety awarenesscomponent. Each workshop ran for two hourson March 29 and 31. Additionally,young black belt students from the

Lorette Taekwondo Hosts Women’s andKids Self-Defence Seminar

Winnipeg Downtown Branch wereinvited to come to Lorette to assistwith the demonstrations andinstruction. Many members fromLorette Branch, white to blackbelts, were also present to assist.Participants included 14 ladiesduring the two days and 13children under the age of 16 years. Instruction was given on the dosand don’ts of self-defence and on

A group of participants listening to the instructions of Master Tam with RCMP Cst. Samuel Chassé observing.

awareness of one’s surroundings.Participants were shown somebasic moves on how to escapeattackers who could be grabbingfrom behind and some arm twiststhat could be used when accostedfrom the front. Children wereshown how to use the wriggletwist followed by the drop-to-thefloor move to escape an older“bad guy.” Following the class

component of the demonstrations,participants were given theopportunity to practice what theyobserved with the help of the blackbelts who were able to give one-on-one instruction. Although the class sizes weresmall, participants felt engaged inthe seminars and were very pleasedwith the instruction anddemonstrations.

Special invited guests arrived onthe last day to observe andprovide some self-defence advicefrom the perspective of the RCMP.Joining the group were Cst.Samuel Chassé and Cst. KevinTheriault of the St. Pierre-JolysRCMP Detachment. This may be afirst where two differentorganizations came together forthe benefit of the communityregarding the same topic.

At the end of Tuesday night’s session, students and instructors line up for a group photo. Taekwondomembers at left l-r: Aaron Bernier, Lionel Bernier, Derek Jolicoeur, Tori Smith, Elisabeth Fust, LukeJolicoeur, Maria Krawec and Angelina Oliveira. Black Belts at right l-r: Allanah Climaco, Dwight Baker,Jeffrey Phan, Unice Chang, Vince Torres, Master Michael Tam, and Alecs Barzaga sitting. Children infront l-r: Cory Jolicoeur, Marco Filleti (green shirt), Antonino Filleti (behind Marco), three childrenparticipants, Ava Asprey-Prudun, Jhette Perozak (not wearing her uniform), Gaiden Bernier, and RyaBernier.

dawson trail dispatch may 2016

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