By Marianne Curtis

On May 2, voters across Canadawill be casting their ballots to electa new federal government. InProvencher, we have fourcandidates that have steppedforward to vie for our votes. Conservative MP Vic Toews hasdecided to let his name stand foranother term after being first electedas Provencher’s Member ofParliament back in 2000. As amember of Stephan Harper’sgovernment, he has served asMinister of Labour, Minister ofJustice and most recently, Ministerof Safety. “I have worked hard to deliverresults for Provencher and we cansee the results of Canada’sEconomic Action Plan all acrossProvencher,” stated Toews. “Whilethere is still work to be done,Provencher like the rest of Canada,has weathered the economic stormbetter than most.” If the Harper government is re-elected, Toews is confident thatthey will continue with theEconomic Action Plan. “Through the Economic ActionPlan, Canada has managed toregain almost all of the jobs thatwere lost, creating over 480,000 netnew jobs – this is an impressiverecord,” Toews adds. “We mustensure that Canada has a stablenational government that canprovide leadership and keep us onthe path toward economicrecovery.” Toews is going to have his workcut out for him during this election.Former provincial MLA Al Macklinghas come out of retirement at

Provencher Residents Head to Polls

Anola resident and former Agriculture Canada employee Terry Hayward iseager to work for the people in Provencher as he travels the southeastspeaking to residents and pounding in signs.Continued on page 2

NDP candidate and former Manitoba Legislative Member Al Macklinghas come out of retirement at eighty-three to take on Toews inProvencher.Provencher MP and incumbent Conservative candidate Vic Toews has breakfast with residents in Middlebro

while campaigning.

Green Party candidate Janine Gibson campaigns close to her home in Grunthal in a “word of mouth”campaign.

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!2

eighty-three to take him on after being named thesurprise New Democrat Party (NDP) candidate forProvencher. “I am running because I am very concerned aboutwhat is happening in Canada,” Mackling said. “Thegovernment has been undermining all of the socialfabric we have built over decades – there should beenough resentment out there about where the Harpergovernment is taking this country that change willoccur.” Mackling is no stranger to politics – he spent manyyears as a MLA and served as a cabinet minister withEdward Schreyer and Howard Pawley. Toews said he welcomes Mackling into the raceand expects a good, clean campaign. He added thathe even worked for Mackling as a provincial lawyerwhen Mackling was in cabinet. “Al Mackling is a gentleman, and not to beunderestimated,” Toews said. Liberal Candidate Terry Hayward lives in the RMof Springfield with his wife on a farm. His portfolioincludes a thirty-three year career in the federalgovernment with Agriculture Canada where heremained “a-political”. He explained that after hisretirement in 1996 he saw things he didn’t like so hebecame involved with the party that he felt would doa better job for Canadians. “I am running because we need Canada’sdemocracy to return to one where the people have avoice, where there is respect for our institutions andwhere the full economic potential of Canada can berealized,” stated Hayward. “Living and working acrossCanada has shown me the strength and commitment

Continued from page 1

Provencher Candidatescontinued...

On March 21st the St. MaloAlouettes defeated the St. MaloPirates in overtime to win the TinCup. The overtime goal was scoredby Real Lambert and assisted byDave Collette. The Alouettes,coached by Jean Maynard, took theseries three games to one. The Tin Cup is a league in St. Malowhich has been around since 1968.The Tin Cup league has 5 teams,Vikings, Rats, Habs, Pirates and themighty Alouettes. This league is forplayers who want to play non-contact hockey. Players can’t becarded.

In the front row from left to right: Justin Maynard, Andre Mellor, Manager RichPilotte, and Ralph Collette. Second row: Marcel Beaudoin, Coach Jean Maynard,Russ Hebert, Jean-Guy Gosselin, Dave Collette, Dave Gentes, Derek Heppner, MVPRuss Beaudette, Real Lambert, Darrell Dubois, Ray Maynard and Chris Gunderson.Missing are: Rick Pilotte and Gaby Gosselin.

of our people – I’ve spend my entire career workingfor a better Canada based on good governance.” While campaigning, he says people do not want afederal election at this time but he is optimistic thatchange will be seen at the polls. “I don’t know that anyone wants to have an electionright away but this is our democracy, if things are notworking well, we go to the polls,” says Hayward. “Ifthe residents feel that the people that have beenworking for us haven’t really been doing their jobswe will see it at the polls.” You won’t see any signs erected by Green Party ofCanada candidate Janine Gibson because she isstanding by her party’s platform of beingenvironmentally conscious, so she is running a “wordof mouth” campaign. She remains the only Green Partycandidate ever to represent our region in a federalelection. “It just goes to show that we are strong enoughnow that we can have a candidate in every ridingacross Canada,” explained Gibson. “If we get a certainpercentage of the vote that means people recognizethat we need to take care of the environment.” Gibson feels strongly that many of the country’sissues could be resolved if the population took anenvironmentally conscious look at the country. “I think people need to pay attention to where theirfood comes from – this has implications in health caresuch as some cancers could be prevented with lesspesticide use,” explained Gibson. “We also need tobe fiscally conservative but let’s also look at thingsfor our grandchildren.” She stands strongly behind the family farm andagriculture.

As of April 2 the Niverville Credit Union has hiredKen Rempel as the financial institution’s new generalmanager. Rempel, who grew up in Niverville, has worked inagriculture and financial services for many years.According to credit union board chairperson CalSchellenberg, the board chose Rempel because ofhis knowledge of the area and his background inmanagement. “He has a strong track record of sales andmarketing success, operational improvements andbusiness results,” stated Schellenberg. “He is alsoan experienced negotiator and leader that believesin the power of teamwork.” Rempel takes over the reins from GeorgeSawatsky who stepped down earlier this year aftera 45-year career with the Niverville Credit Union.

Tin CupChampions

Credit Union WelcomesNew Manager

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 3

By Marianne Curtis

For the residents in St. Adolphe, the reopening of thePierre Delorane Bridge in the community spells freedomat long last after nineteen months of lengthy detours. On March 8, the bridge at St. Adolphe was officiallyre-opened after sustaining major damage during the 2009spring flood. Part of the Pierre Delmore Bridge suddenlybuckled and it cost the province 15 million dollars torepair it. Infrastructure and Transportation Minister SteveAshton was on hand to personally open the bridge,which is vital to the community. “When I looked at the faces of local residents that willbe able to drive over the bridge, that made it all worthwhile,” stated Ashton. “Its more than a $15 millioninvestment – it’s a lifeline to this community and thosethat live around this area.” The bridge has been closed in August 2009 aftersupport piers shifted. In early 2010, the province fasttracked the project financially and constructioncommenced in the spring. However high water levelsaffected the project over the summer and the fall openingdate was pushed back until spring 2011. Initially the bridge was expected to be open in the fall,but the province decided to take the extra time neededto upgrade the bridge to last several more decadesexplained La Verendrye MLA Ron Lemiuex. “The repair took longer than we anticipated but wedecided that since the bridge was going to be closedanyways it would made sense to do the best possiblerepair job,” added. “Instead of just fixing a portion ofthe bridge we did a total makeover to make sure it willlast for another thirty to forty years.” RM of Ritchot mayor Bob Stefaniuk is pleased thatthe bridge was reopened before the community wasforced to close the ring dyke. “In the event that we close the dyke, the bridge is theonly way out of the community – we are glad that it hasfinally opened,” stated Stefaniuk. All traffic lanes on the bridge are now open however

Ste. Adolphe BridgeFinally Re-opened

there will be brief, single-lane closures over the next few weeks and duringthe summer to complete final repairs. As well, road approaches andlandscaping work will be done later in the spring and summer around thebridge. In addition to the bridge repairs, the structure has been rededicated. New signs identify the bridge by name, acknowledging the long history ofthe Delorme family in the area.

Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation Steve Ashton and La Verendrye MLA Ron Lemiuexget ready to officially reopen the St. Adolphe Bridge.

Photo by Karen Jorgenson

By Marianne Curtis

A 15-year-old boy from Ste. Anne was arrested and charged based onallegations that he enticed an 8-year-old Ontario girl to send nude pictures tohim via her IPod. The arrest stemmed from Ontario where the Guelph Police Service said itreceived a complaint from a woman that her 8-year-old daughter had beenlured into sending nude pictures on the internet. Ste. Anne Police Chief Marc Robichaud called the case “disturbing”. “There is no other way to describe it but (as) disturbing,” said MarcRobichaud, Ste. Anne’s chief of police. Police say that the 8-year-old had been using a chat program shedownloaded off the internet on her iPod. Following a forensic examination ofthe girl’s iPod, a suspect was identified. Guelph police contacted officers inSte. Anne and on March 4 the suspect was arrested. Police maintain there is a possibility the teen didn’t know the young girlwas only eight. He has spoken with officers and they say he has beencooperative. Evidence was collected from the teenager’s home and he wasreleased into his parent’s custody. Although no charges have been laid so far, Robichaud believes the arrestshould serve as a reminder to parents. “You wouldn’t leave them alone in a shopping mall or (on) the streets. Theinternet is exactly the same,” said Robichaud. Organizations such as Cybertip.ca warn parents that the internet is the“Door that is Not Locked” and parents should be more proactive in protectingtheir children from online predators. This includes following therecommendation that children under 10 should not be allowed to access chatforums that could put them at risk. Parents are encouraged to visitwww.thedoorthatsnotlocked.ca to find out more about protecting children.

Ste. Anne TeenArrested with

Internet Luring

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!4

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

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

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Canada Post AgreementNumber 42079020

As the opening political salvosecho across the Canadian landscapeit appeared that a majoritygovernment was possible, but onlyfor a fleeting moment. After fiveyears of twisting, mutilating andspindling the truth, the 19-point leadin the polls and the necessary 2 to 3points more needed for a majorityappears to be still elusive… or is it aretreat. But let’s face it; too much ofa minority government is not goodfor the country. Alas, the Tories havejust about started to believe theirown press about the recklesscoalition ganging up on them andany hope of a majority is quicklydisappearing into the scourge ofpolitics American style. Attack ads! Well, let us look at election fatigueand timing. With a 19-point lead inthe polls, the budget which wouldproduce the biggest deficit in historywas undoubtedly crafted in such away as to make sure of its failure atthe hands of the opposition, andbecome the opening shot of theelection for the Tories. Furthermore, if they form the nextgovernment, the goodies promisedwill be scaled back to an affordablelevel with the obvious excuses given“reflecting the new reality of the day”- with, of course, the degree of realityreflecting the number of Tory MPselected. That is, will it be a majorityor a minority situation? Next is the demonizing of the wordcoalition. In the real world,opposition MPs generally cooperate

Federal politics has a huge effecton our daily lives. It determines whatkind of social programs we haveaccess to, or lack thereof; how muchtax money will be deducted off ourearnings, and what return we will seefor those tax dollars. The Federal Government serves asour face on the world stage. Howwe are perceived as a nation isdetermined not only by our ownpersonal actions at home andabroad, but also by the actions ofour elected officials and the choicesthey make. There is a lot riding on your vote.Please, don’t think for one minutethat it doesn’t matter. It does! In ademocracy it is the only voice youhave to say, “I agree!” to whomeverrepresents your interests the best. It is a small way for you to say, “Ilive here, this is my home, and I knowhow I want to see it run!” If currentevents say anything to you, theyshould be saying, “VOTE!” People

Election 2011 or Flagellation 2011to bring down a government if theycollectively disagree with thedirection of its policy and directionand, if numerically, they have thenumbers. Reality follows, sinister isa comment from the unwise that willturn around and bite your own arse.Tories were the only ones, while inopposition, who tried to form acoalition with the Bloc, specifically,in 2004. In 2008 the Bloc, althoughnot in the coalition, agreed not toupset the upstart Grit and NDPproposed coalition for at least twoyears but had a memo ofunderstanding on fiscal stimulus.The Prime Minister either suffersfrom memory loss or it is a case ofcan I get enough people to believethis bull until the election is over. Isuspect the latter. If you studycoalitions in politics they only showpractical politics, such as the onebetween the “Reform” and the “PC”to create the new “Tories”. The artof governing is the merging ofpractical “can do ideas”; if it’s goodfor the “Tories” it should be goodfor their opposition. Another “canard” is the phrase“the reckless opposition throwingus in an unwanted election”. Wasproroguing a parliament in 2008 toseek a majority in that electionconsidered an election thateverybody wanted? Or was that anexample of extreme self-servingHarper interest at the full cost of anelection? I would venture to saymore people feel this 2011 election

is necessary as opposed to the2008 election, if only because morepeople are getting very tired of theinsecurity and games of minorityparliaments. In the course of thecampaign how many people willrealize that a Tory swipe at theopposition is a swipe at your own“back side”. I venture to guess thiswill self-inflict enough damage tosee your majority evaporate. Asyou get nearer and nearer to theheadline that will say “Harpermiscalculates again” you will getcrankier to crankiest, then no matterwhat language you demonize inattacking everybody else,opposition numbers willcollectively receive more than 50percent of the vote. Majority goespoof! The reckless opposition will deraila fragile recovery. That is asubjective “crock”. The nextbudget will follow this election toset a course for the next fiscal year.Today’s economy has been set bypast budgets and how far from

accurate will be determined by thecorrective measures in futurebudgets. Even if it comes to passthat the corrective budget will be aGrit /NDP budget. The Grits knowdeficit reduction we can believe in.The NDP know social fairness. Therelevant questions are whether thenew generation of fighter jets willcost $9 billion (your forecast) or $20billion (the opposition and theAmericans forecast), many of uswould like a sober second look. Tenbillion makes us nervous. The newtwo percent reduction in corporatetax is looking more and more like anentitlement with nothing to do withjob creation. A telling analogy is theCEO of CN taking home more than$2.78 million in 2008, more than $5.75million plus last year and on targetto benefit in pay and bonuses of $7.7million in 2010. Bonuses have a directimpact on profits and tax cuts equalmore profit to the bottom line. Thisnumber seems to have benefitedgreatly from ongoing corporate taxcuts and we could be forgiven if weviewed them as entitlements. Whatwill be this final remuneration numberin 2011 with the benefit of anothercorporate tax cut? I dare say the hardpressed middle class is not amused.How many of us, do you think, feelthat we are entitled to the benefitsof our labors? Probably a substantialmajority don’t you think? Nowheredo I see numbers for job creationcorresponding to these corporatetax cuts. If they existed would they

not be plastered all over thenewspapers? How much of these CNprofits have found their way into Toryelection coffers? How many otherCorporate CEOs are receivingentitlements? I am sorry I forgot I wasonly entitled to ask two questions inEnglish. Would it help if I rephrasedone or two in French? Damn, I wasteda question on that. Yet the burning sentiment is a stablemajority government and you arewasting good campaigning time onblaming the opposition. Amend yourfoolish ways or this is what willhappen. You will get to present a newminority budget. You will be defeatedin the big House. You will then gosee the Governor General and he willmost certainly refuse you leave foranother election because of voterfatigue. He will then call on the Gritsand the NDP (which is his duty) toattempt to form a government and, toyour chagrin, without the Bloc! TheBloc, who much like your Reformroots, have destabilizing dreams andwonderful pensions. Your greatestnightmare is that a future “new” Toryleader will eventually get a majorityand take “your page” in history. I’m so damn good at this historything it’s embarrassing. Seriously, myfactitiousness is directionallyproportional to the credibility of thiscampaign and I’m trying to maintainmy sense of humor. Sanity, forget it,that’s long gone. I suppose it wouldbe better for my health if I bought acase of whiskey and woke up in June.

By Marianne Curtis

Through the Looking Glass

Apathy Sucks!are dying for the freedom of choicewe enjoy in Canada - literally. Beyond just the importance ofyour vote is educating yourself inorder to make that vote really count.My advice is don’t vote rigidly forone party because it’s your longstanding tradition, or how you wereraised. Vote on the issues that speakto you, regardless of party lines.Listen to what each candidate hasto say. Forget the myth that politics areboring. Politics are exciting. Sportsfans could equate politics to horseracing (first past the post), baseball(hitting a policy home run), orhockey (dropping the gloves andthrowing a good punch at theopposition, or scoring a goal in thefive hole when the other team isn’tlooking). Movie and book lovers can equatepolitics to a good romance, drama,mystery or sometimes, a chillinghorror! Love reality TV? Some of

the so called reality shows arenothing compared to the dramathat occurs in the House ofCommons every day. Try watchingCPAC for an afternoon. Theshouting and insults could curl thetoes of the best “trash TV” lover. Apathy is boring. And it can bedeadly. If we are not careful aboutwho we elect, it can be harmful tous as a whole. As I stated above,politics affects us in so many waysthat we need to make informedchoices. Don’t vote based strictlyon tradition and allegiance. Voteon the issues that matter to you.Educate yourself on those issuesand use the reasoning skills youwere born with to come to adecision worthy of your time tocast that vote.

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 5

Dear Editor: A recent CTV news story highlighted one case where a thief was given between $30,000and $60,000 after smashing up a stolen car and getting injured in the process. That’s overand above the cost to our health care system for fitting him up with expensive prostheticlimbs and other procedures. To add insult to injury, MPI also conceded they will sometimes pay for criminals’ familymembers to be flown in to visit them in the hospital. MPI will even provide compensationto the families of criminals that die in stolen cars. Worst of all, the NDP voted down a bill in 2008 that would have ended such nonsense.It’s time to tell Andrew Swan, the Minister responsible for MPI, to wise up. Cut off thebenefits to criminals or resign...taxpayers have had enough. What can people do? Contact Minister Swan at 945-3728 or minjus@leg.gov.mb.ca tohave your voice heard.Agnes GosselinSt. Malo, MB

The Pierre Delorme Bridge is nowopen with full traffic access.Infrastructure and TransportationMinister Steve Ashton and I wereable to make this announcementearlier last month as we officiallyreopened the structure on Hwy210 and rededicated the bridge toPierre Delorme. The Pierre Delorme Bridge is akey piece of infrastructure in theRed River Valley and I’m pleasedthat area residents and localbusinesses will again have accessto it. We invested over $15 millionin the reconstruction work andalthough the contractor’s progresswas delayed last summer and fallby near-record rains and highwater levels, the structure has beenreopened well before spring. The bridge was closed August20, 2009, after an unexpectedgeological event damaged thebridge’s foundation. Reopening the bridge was a highpriority and completing such majorrepairs on a bridge of this size, injust over a year, is an excellentturnaround. Crews were able tominimize damage to the bridgeduring the demolition phase andthis saved money and time on theoverall project. The new PierreDelorme Bridge is expected to lastfor decades to come. All traffic lanes on the bridge arenow open; however, there will be

If you receive money back that youshould never have paid to begin withare you receiving a windfall? That’sjust one of the questions motoristsshould be asking themselves in thewake of the announcement by theNDP government and ManitobaPublic Insurance (MPI) thatmotorists would be receiving a 45percent rebate on the premiums theyhave paid. By now many Manitobans willhave discovered the pattern that hasdeveloped regarding their insurancepayments. They overpay for a fewyears and then are sent a rebateduring the year of a provincialelection. Usually the rebates are inthe range of 10 percent. That wasthe plan again this election year untilthe NDP government suddenlyannounced that there was $250million of ratepayers’ money sittingat MPI that really wasn’t needed andshouldn’t have been paid. While the NDP no doubt arehoping this feels like a mini-lotterywin for all Manitobans what it reallydoes is shine a light on the fact thatfor years Manitobans have beenoverpaying for their car insurance.In fact, including the latest rebate,Manitobans have collectivelyoverpaid for the insurance on theirvehicles by a whopping $600 million. The pattern of several years ofoverpayment followed by anelection year payout continues thisyear with perhaps the size of therebate being both a reflection of theoverpayment and the desperation ofthe NDP government. What is clear is that there issomething not quite right with theway that, under the NDP,Manitoba’s public auto insurer isoperating. The overpayment ofpremiums is only one aspect of it.

Windfall RebateRaises Questions

Another is the fact that the NDP haveused MPI as something of a personalpiggy bank, raiding it for a varietyof projects that have littleconnection to auto insurance. Themost flagrant of these was the $20million the NDP attempted to takefrom MPI to give to the universitiesa few years back, an attempt that wasdropped after massive public outcry. The other concern is that it is verydifficult to actually examine thefinancial position of MPI becausethe government refuses access.How these massive overpaymentsare allowed to pile-up remains amystery to a large extent becausethe books are tightly sealed. MPI is owned by Manitobans andoperates for the benefit ofManitobans. Like other CrownCorporations, such as ManitobaHydro, it creates value whenmanaged properly. Getting therebate cheque will be nice, but theNDP needs to answer why you wereovercharged for years to begin with. I appreciate your comments andconcerns. If you have anycomments on these or other issues,you can contact me by writing, #3 –227 Main Street, Steinbach, MBR5G 1Y7, by phone at (204) 326-5763,by fax at (204) 346-9913, by e-mail atkelvin.goertzen@leg.gov.mb.ca orby visiting my website atwww.kelvingoertzen.com.I look forward to hearing from you.

Reopening of Pierre Delorme BridgeRestores Full Access to St. Adolphe Area

brief, single-lane closures over thenext few weeks and during thesummer to complete final repairs.As well, road approaches andlandscaping work will be done later inthe spring and summer around thebridge. In addition to the bridgerepairs, the structure has beenrededicated. New signs identify thebridge by name, acknowledging thelong history of the Delorme family inthe area. I would like to thank Hubert Delormefor saying a few words at the openingof the bridge and extend my thanks tothe family members that came out tocommemorate the rededication of thebridge to their ancestor.

Province Announces $1 Million forCommunity Centres and Teams Young people, families andcommunities will enjoy improved sportand recreational opportunities andfacilities, and the work of parentvolunteers will be supported thanksto the new First Sports Program forrecreation and sports clubs and theirteams, Premier Greg Selinger hasannounced. Community and recreation centersare important hubs for children andfamilies. Investing in children bysupporting the places where they areoften first introduced to sports andactivities is what First Sports is allabout. The $1-million First Sports program

will provide grants of up to $10,000for community and recreation clubsand affiliated teams to purchaseshared sports equipment such ashockey nets and baseball bases, aswell as maintenance items such asgrounds-keeping equipment. Theprogram will also help communityclubs serving youth to undertakesmall capital projects to maintain andimprove the condition of theirfacilities. The First Sports Program will helpvolunteers and staff continue toprovide opportunities for familiesacross the province to play andgrow. Applications for First Sports areavailable today at community centreoffices across the province andonline at www.gov.mb.ca/housing/cpp/index.html. As always, I appreciate hearingyour comments and thoughts onthese and other provincialinitiatives. I encourage you tocontact me by e-mail(rlemieuxmla@mts.net), by phone(878-4644), or by mail at 101-1309Dawson Road, Box 517, Lorette, MBR0A 0Y0 and together we cancontinue to move La Verendrye andManitoba forward.

MPI Needs to CloseLoopholes

On March 14th at approximately 10:30 p.m, Steinbach RCMP, as well as local EmergencyServices and EMS, were dispatched to the scene of a two vehicle collision on Hwy 303,east of Hwy 216 in the Rural Municipality of Hanover. Investigation indicates that a 1999 Suzuki was traveling Westbound when it crossed thecenterline of the highway and collided with an Eastbound 2007 Volvo Semi. Both drivers were transported from the scene by ambulance. The driver of the Suzuki, a 16-year-old male from the Steinbach area, was taken to hospitalin Steinbach where he was pronounced deceased. The driver of the truck was not seriouslyinjured. Speed or alcohol is not believed to have been a factor in this collision. Weather was likelya contributing factor due to mild temperatures, blowing snow, heavy drifting and icy roadconditions.

Fatal Motor Vehicle Collision

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!6

An 83-year-old Woodridge man is alive today thanks to a smoke detectoralerted him of the early morning fire which destroyed his home. On March 3, at around 1:30 a.m., the Sprague Fire Department respondedto a fire at the 2-story home of 83-year-old Ed Chatel. Sister-in-law Mavis Chatel said that the elderly bachelor was awakenedin the middle of the night by the smoke detector and managed to escapewith only the clothes on his back. “He is okay but he lost everything,” said Chatel. “He got out when thesmoke detector went off and he came out with just a t-shirt, socks and hispants.” Mavis, who lives across the street said, that cause of the fire is unknown. “When a guy brought him here – we live across the street – the housewas totally engulfed – there is no doubt about it, he would not have madeit out without the smoke detector,” Mavis stressed.

By Marianne Curtis

The RM of Tache is getting somefunding to help supportenvironmentally friendly initiativesin their communities. RM of Tache municipaladministrator Dan Poerschconfirmed that the municipality isreceiving $60,000 towards severalgreen initiatives that are expected tohelp reduce greenhouse gasemissions. The RM of Tache is looking atseveral large projects including amethod to capture methane at themunicipal landfill. The moneyreceived will also be used to switchcurrent lighting along streets to LEDas well as increasing compostingand improvements to the municipalwide recycling program. These projects were selected by agrassroots committee that wasformed last year to identify areaswhere greenhouse gas emissionscan be potentially reduced includingwaste management, transportation,and residential. The RM of De Salaberry and theVillage of St. Pierre are alsoparticipating in the pilot program. The funding came from theprovincial government under aprogram called the Community LedEmissions Reduction pilot project(CLER). The province offered $3.5million in grants for various projects.The money is expected to helpdevelop and implement projects andactivities that reduce greenhousegases and support lasting changes. The pilot project CLER program isa partnership with the Associationof Manitoba Municipalities,Association of Manitoba BilingualMunicipalities, Conseil de

Tache Goes Green

Are you in need of mobilityequipment to get around? SeineRiver Services for seniors can helpyou. Mobility aids such aswheelchairs, walkers and canes areavailable forup to three months on therecommendation of a medicalprofessional. A nominal fee isrequired. For more information pleasecontact Juliette Rowan at 424-5575.

développement économique desmunicipalités bilingues duManitoba, Manitoba Hydro, local

not-for-profit environmentalorganizations and the Federation ofCanadian Municipalities.

Mobility AidsAvailable

Smoke Detector Alerts Senior

The RM of La Broquerie is in no hurry to fill a number of vacancies in themunicipal office, or at least not until council has a chance to streamline themunicipality’s employee handbook. Over the past few months the RM of La Broquerie has lost their chiefadministrator, assistant administrator, public works foreman, bylaw officerand several other employees. While the municipality is currently operatingwith the assistance of new assistant administrator Claude Moquin andRoger Bouvier, the municipality is in no hurry to fill the vacancies. By law, municipalities are required to have an employee code of ethicsand code of conduct. The RM of La Broquerie council has decided tocreate a handbook that includes hiring and harassment policies and acode of ethics and conduct. It will also include clear job functions anddescriptions for all employees including those working in public works.Plans are that these documents will be up to date before they fill theadministrator vacancy. According to Reeve Claude Lussier, the current employee handbookdates back to early 2000. “There are some portions that need to be brought up to date,” Lussiersaid. Council is also looking into making it clearer. “The whole idea of anemployee handbook is to eliminate confusion – everything will be onpaper and they (staff) will know exactly how to proceed.” The RM of La Broquerie doesn’t expect to fill the position of chiefadministrator until after this spring’s anticipated flood situation has passed.

The 2-storey home of Ed Chatel still smoulders after an early morning fire levelled thestructure.

La Broquerie Looks intoEmployee Handbooks

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 7

Steinbach 55 Plus offers programs, activities,services and volunteer opportunities, striving topromote healthy and active living for older adults ofthe southeast region. We invite you to come and payus a visit and consider participating in some of ourprograms. For more information call the center 320-4600.

Special events coming up in April 2011Parkinson Disease information session: MondayApril 11th. 1:30 p.m. Presented by the Parkinson’sSociety of Manitoba. There is no charge for thisworkshop. Call the center to register 320-4600.Navigating the Health Care System: ThursdayApril 21st. 2:00 p.m. Presented by Frances Peters.Our modern health care system is a complex mazethat people sometimes find overwhelming. Empoweryourself to become an active participant in your ownhealth care. There is no cost to this workshop.Old Time Country Dance: Friday April 29th. 8:00p.m. Live band: The Frazer River Boys. Tickets inadvance: $8 member, $10 non member, $12 at thedoor for all.

Monthly Programs Single Ladies’ Night Out: The first Friday of themonth at 5:00 p.m. Enjoy supper out at a localrestaurant. Call the center for place to meet. Foot Care: The first and third Tuesday of the monthfrom 9:00-3:00 p.m. Run by a professional foot carenurse. Cost: $25. Bring your own towel. Call centerto book an appointment. Pot Luck Supper: The second Thursday of everymonth at 6:00 p.m. Main dish and beverages areprovided. Cost: $5.00 per person. Bring along acasserole, salad or desert. Call center to reserve yourseat. March entertainment is Steinbach 55 Plus OldTime Band and the meat is chicken. Birthday Party: The first Wednesday of themonth. All members with a birthday are invited forcomplimentary cake and coffee. Guests are asked topay $2.00. Entertainment provided. Perogy Bee: The first Monday of every month. Beltone Hearing: The third Friday of each month.Call 1-800-661-2653 for appointment. Brain Injury Support Group: The last Mondayof the month. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Weekly ProgramsMonday 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Fitness Class

1:00 p.m. Canasta1:00 p.m. H.O. model railway project7:00 p.m. Wood Carving7:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. Tai Chi

Tuesday 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Adult Day ProgramWednesday 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Fitness Class

10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Tai Chi10:00 a.m. Choir practice1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cribbage1:30 p.m. Floor curling7:00 p.m. Old time country band practice

Thursday 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bridge and WhistFriday 8:30 - 3:00 p.m. Adult Day Program Noon meals are available Monday through Friday.Cost $5.50. Call 320-4605 by 9:00 a.m. to reserveyour meal for that day. Purchase your meal ticket atthe receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menusavailable at the office or in the newsletter. Bring afriend. Billiards: Monday to Friday 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Computer Lab: Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. - 12p.m. & 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Cost $1.00. There arelessons with Alex Cupples on Wednesdays from 9:00a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Call the center for more information. Volunteer Opportunities include perogy making,decorating and setting tables, birthday party hosts,food preparation and serving, clean up, greeters,receptionists, etc. We welcome new volunteers. Membership at Steinbach 55 Plus is only $20 peryear. Memberships are due in January of each year.Membership is for those 55 years of age and older.Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice inbusiness meetings, voting rights, and eligibility to serveon the board or committees. For more information on our programs, activitiesor volunteer opportunities, drop by the CenterMonday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or call320-4600 or go to www.steinbach55plus.com.

Guy Lévesque has been appointed by Manitoba Health as the new Board Chair of SouthEastman Health. Lévesque is a long-time resident of the Town of Ste. Anne where he served as ChiefAdministrative Officer for over 26 years. He is married and has two children who currently workin healthcare. He is also a proud grandfather of four. “I am thrilled to be joining a dynamic and forward thinking Board of Directors,” said Lévesque.“I have often admired the health system in South Eastman for its dedication to patient safety andquality of care. Treating people with care and respect will be an important priority for me as newBoard Chair.” During his time as Chief Administrative Officer he collaborated with government and communitystakeholders to improve the healthcare system in his own town of Ste. Anne. However, Lévesquereadily and whole-heartedly accepts his new responsibility and role of approaching healthcarefrom a regional perspective. Lévesque will spend some time doing a regional tour to better understand the healthcare needsof other districts in South Eastman and meet with staff and other key stakeholders of the RHAfollowing his orientation. Lévesque replaces outgoing, retired Chairman, Aurèle Boisvert, from the R.M. of Ste. Anne,who is ending his term on March 31st. Manitoba Health has also appointed two new members to the board. Roy Enns of Steinbachand Ron Tardiff of Lorette join the Board of South Eastman as new members while Jean Balcaenfrom Richer and Leo Van Den Bussche of St. Adolphe have both been reappointed.

Lévesque Named NewHealth Board Chair

Former Town of Ste. Anne administrator GuyLevesque was recently named as the newchairperson for the South Eastman Healthregional board of directors.

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!8

The Enfant-Jésus Heritage Site Committee in Richeris looking for information on the history of one ofRicher’s founding fathers so that a proper monumentcan be placed in his honor. Patricia Gendreau, the committee’s archivist, is lookingfor concrete historical information on Pierre Michaud.In 1903 Pierre donated 17 acres of his land for the futurebuilding site of the school, convent, chapel, rectoryand parish hall in Richer. “As Pierre Michaud is an important figure in our town’shistory, we hope to have a commemorative monumentinstalled on his reserved grave site, next to his wife’s,in the Enfant-Jésus Cemetery,” explained Gendreau. “Weare looking for any photos, documents or genealogyfacts of the Michaud or the Favreau Family.” What the committee does know is that Pierre Michaud,son of Julien Michaud and Marie Josephine Proulx,was born in La Limouzinière, France in 1867. TheMichaud family came to Canada in the late 1800’s andPierre’s family settled in Richer at the turn of the century. In 1904 Pierre Michaud wed Hélène Favreau, daughterof Pierre Favreau and Marie Guilbault, in theThibaultville Chapel. This was the first wedding in thechapel. Helene served as a midwife and also worked ontheir farm. The early settlers would be childless. Helene’ssister, Marie, married Henri Mercereau. Her other sister,Thérèse, married Maurice Marcoux. After Helene’s death in 1944, Pierre moved to Wade,Ontario, where he lived with his cousin, MarcelleWarren. He spent his remaining years there. “One day he went to gather blueberries in the nearbyforest and never returned; only his pail was found near

Committee Wants to HonorRicher Founder

a railroad track and he was never heard ofafterward,” Patricia added. Anyone with further information orwanting to participate in this project can callPatricia at 422-6880.

Pierre Michaud and his wife Hélène Favreau, takenfrom the Enfant-Jésus Heritage Site Archives.

Construction of a new middle school in Steinbach has officially begunafter the Hanover School Division recently turned the sod and kicked offthe project. Education Minister Nancy Allen was on hand to help the Hanover SchoolDivision dig in and officially start construction on the new ClearspringMiddle School. “This school is a leading edge, green technology building that is alreadybeing used as a learning tool,” stated Allen. “It is a model in our countryon how schools should be built and we are really proud of it.” Last month, the Hanover School Division awarded the project to Penn-Co Construction of Blumenort. Doors to the new school will open forclasses in September 2012.

Sod TurnedOn Middle

School

By Marianne Curtis

The RM of Ritchot has been working diligently behind the scenes inpreparation of an anticipated flooding emergency. RM of Ritchot Mayor Bob Stefaniuk says that his council and communityhave been getting prepared despite a spell of favourable weather. “The flood forecast has not changed very much over the past while andwe are still expecting water coming in from the south,” stated Stefaniuk. “Iam confident that we are prepared. Unless something significant happenswe should be okay.” Stefaniuk added that based on the current forecast the flood may not beas damaging as first anticipated but it will be a major inconvenience forresidents. Most of the municipality’s flood prone properties are protectedto the 1997 plus two feet level. Under favourable conditions, there is a one in ten chance that the areacould see 2006 water levels. There is an 8 out of ten chance that water willrise up to two and a half feet above 2009 levels. Unfavourable conditionswould put the level at one foot higher than 1997 but there is only a one inten chance of that happening. Despite the optimistic attitude, the RM of Ritchot is proceeding withpreparations. As of March 24, the RM of Ritchot’s emergency measuresoffice opened for business. Manned by trained volunteers, residents canfind access to answers and resources. They can also pick up sandbags. Harold Schlamp, emergency coordinator for the RM of Ritchot advisesresidents to schedule an appointment to have empty sandbags deliveredto residents or business. “The driver will bring the bags and supply information on how to builda dyke properly along with the names of contractors that will deliversand,” says Schlamp. Residents will be required to pay the contractor andthen make a claim to Disaster Financial Assistance for reimbursementlater, if possible. “There are things that residents can do – knowing your flood proofingelevations is one of them,” Schlamp added. “Moving equipment, propanetanks, drums and other items to higher ground is another.” Videos on how to build and determine how many sandbags are neededis available at the municipal website. Anyone requiring assistance can call883-2147. In addition an automated phone line at 883-2596 has been hookedup to provide daily updates on Red River water levels.

Ritchot Ready forSpring Flooding

The RM of Ritchot council recently met with Ron Lemieux, MLA for La Vérendrye to discussthe municipality’s protection plans in preparation for this year’s anticipated flooding event.

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 9

Summer in the CityJune 17 & 18 – looking for Performers and Artists for the Main Stage.

Musicians, Bands, Singers, Actors, Dancers! Visual Artists – painting, drawing, pottery, sculpture. Join the Artists in theCity tent – limited numbers. Here’s a great opportunity for you! Send in yourapplication today; available at Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre or check our website.Call for Entry for KR Barkman Concert in the Park 2011 Series. Musicians, Bands, Singers, Actors, Dancers… Interested in performing?Here’s a great opportunity for you to perform in the KR Barkman Park on MainStreet. Event runs from June to July. We are currently taking applications. Theseare free concerts open to the public, and are designed to promote local talent, sodon’t delay! Send in your application today, available at Steinbach Cultural ArtsCentre or on our website.

‘Celebrate the Arts…in Mask-erade Style!’ Fundraiser Gala 2011 Save the Date! The Steinbach Arts Council is pleased to announce the date oftheir upcoming ‘Celebrate the Arts…in Mask-erade Style!’ Annual FundraiserGala Dinner and Dance will be on Friday, May 13. Watch for early bird tickets –on sale March 31st.

Summer Art Day Camps – 15% off Remember to register by April 29. Have the best summer ever! 4 & 5-day camps for kids aged from 5-12 years,running from July 11- August 26. Experience activities in music, dance, drama,visual arts and sports/recreation and physical arts. Camp themes: Blast from thePast, Topsy Turvy Holidays, A Pirates Life for Me!, Sporty Camp, HeritageHunt, Year 3000

Southeast School of Dance presents... Living the Rhythm – Southeast School of Dance Recital. Family and friendsare invited to come and watch the performances on Saturday, April 16, 2 & 7 p.m.– SRSS Theatre

Backyard Theatre Company Final performance! Live, Act & Dream, Steinbach Arts Council, Backyard Theatre Class 2010-2011. Final Performance is on Thursday, April 28, 7:00 p.m. at the SRSS Theatre.Six months of classes in singing, acting and movement lead up to a theatre showcase-recital for friends and family.

‘From the Beginning’ Exhibit by John Nielsen. Exhibit runsApril 6 – May 2. See you at the SACHall Gallery!

Music lovers and singers! A 250-voice mass choir for ‘TheGreat Hallelujah’, a Steinbach andregion community event proudlypresented by the EvangelicalMennonite Conference, the SteinbachArts Council and CHVN. ‘The Great Hallelujah!’ will be a powerful and dynamicworship-concert celebration in the black gospel tradition. Under the leadership ofSteinbach’s own, and international singer/song-writer/recording artist, Danny Plett,and accompanied by Danny’s four piece band of professional musicians, ‘TheGreat Hallelujah!’ will be performed at the Steinbach Mennonite Church on April30, 2011. Admission free event!

Drop-in Drawing with Jack Tate Mondays 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Ages: 17+. You can drop in and learn the art ofdrawing – or improve your drawing skills if you are a painter. Designed forstudents who have little or lots of drawing experience, this course provides anintroduction to basic techniques and fundamental concepts of drawing and also acontinuing of your skills.

Creative Adult Art Classes for 17+ yrs- Pottery: Barb Plett Wednesdays until May 4, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.- Watercolour I: Mondays until May 2, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. For those who are newto watercolour, learn the basics.- Watercolour II: April 12–May 31 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. For those who havepreviously taken watercolour.

By Marianne Curtis

A Vita woman that has left her mark on thecommunity in which she lives has beennominated for a prestigious Woman ofDistinction Award. Michelle Gawronsky is one of many womenthat are up for an award at the upcoming May 4YMCA-YWCA Women of Distinction Award’s35th Annual Banquet and Awards night. Gawronsky was nominated by CandaceMaxymowich, who considers her a mentor. “She has been a role model to me and manyothers,” Maxymowich stated. “She is an every-day woman and a living inspiration to any girlor woman looking to succeed on their ownterms, in a world still dominated by the “goodol’ boys.” Maxyymowich credits Gawronsky forencouraging her to become a psychiatric nurseand to follow her dreams. “I have seen Michelle work hard in everythingshe does and watching her continually inspiresme to do better and be a better person,”Maxymowich adds. “She is an inspiration forany generation.” Gawronsky has a long history of servicewithin the community of Vita. She is activelyinvolved at the Vita and District Health Centerin a variety of capacities including as aparamedic and activity director at WhisperingPines Personal Care Home. However, she isbetter known for her advocacy for improvedhealth care and services for the Vita area,community and her tireless efforts as vice-president of the Manitoba GovernmentEmployees Union. She is also an activevolunteer within the community. The YMCA-YWCA Women of DistinctionAwards Program is an inspirational and exciting

Arts for Tots Preschool Program Early Registration for Fall 2011. Register today….Spaces are limited! The most creative way to learn early child development through dance, theatre,music and visual arts – for ages 3-5. Instructors: Miss Carol & Miss Pam Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday 9 – 11:30 a.m. & 1 - 3:30 p.m.

Free Classes – Looking for more Seniors! Granny’s Secret Recipes – Tuesdays, April 5 & 12 – 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Createyour recipes in a nutritious way – get handouts for variations on many recipes. Agreat time to make meals and socialize! Grandma & Grandpa’s Green Thumbs – April to June 2011. We are lookingfor seniors to share their gardening knowledge with local elementary students. Call our Visual Arts Coordinator @ 346-1077

Steinbach Arts Council Clubs Photo Club with Dan Hewson – First Monday of the month Southeast Artists Group – Tuesday mornings 9:30 -11:30 a.m. New! Welcomingnew artists for only a $2/Drop in fee! Call Gary Holden 346-9623 for details.

Vita Woman Nominated forWomen of Distinction Award

celebration of talent, achievement, imagination andinnovation, honouring Manitoba women who have made aunique and exemplary contribution to the development ofothers in our community. The annual presentation of these awards reflects the Y’scommitment to increase public recognition of these womenwho have earned our admiration and respect.

The Steinbach Arts Councilreceived an investment of$16,800 from the federalgovernment in support of theSummer in the City Festival. The Summer in the CityFestival will showcase localartists, artisans and heritagepresenters through music,dance, comedy, visual artsexhibitions and tours of thecommunity.

Michelle Gawronsky (right), from Vita is up for an award at the upcoming35th YWCA Women of Distinction banquet in May. She was nominated byCandace Maxymowich, who she has been mentoring.

Summer in the CityFestival ReceivesFederal Support

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!10

EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT TO EDITOR@DAWSONTRAIL.CAOR FAX 204-422-8548

COMMUNITY EVENTS

BlumenortAre you looking to get in shape? Are you looking for a place to socialize with fellow community members? Walking is the best and cheapestform of exercise to maintain or reach your physical activity goals.  The Hanover walking club will help you reach your fitness goals and giveyou the opportunity to mingle with your Blumenort neighbours.  We meet every Friday. If you would like more information on the WalkingClub, please contact Travis at 346-7132.

LoretteIf you or anyone you know is interested in enrolling a child in Kindergarten for the 2011-2012 school year at École Lorette Immersion, pleasephone the school office at 878-4233 to make arrangements to pick up a registration package. The children must be 5 years of age by December31, 2011.

There will be a Fundraiser/Craft Show in Lorette on Saturday, April 16th. It will start at 9:00 a.m. and run until 3:00 p.m. This event is in supportof the Bles dor Senior Club.

GrunthalThe Keenagers are a 70 voice choir that sings to bring glory to God and to bless the singers and audiences.  Come and enjoy great music, coffeeand fine dessert on April 8th, 7:30 at the Elim Church in Grunthal on Main Street!  There is no admission however any donations received willgo to the Elim building fund.

FriendensfeldThere will be a Country Dance at the Friedensfeld Hall on Saturday April 9. Start time is 8:00 p.m. and tickets are $10.There will be lunch servedand also a Silent Auction. This event is Alcohol free.  For more info please call Bill at 346-2445 or Karen at371-1333. Music will be by “D”Good “Ole” boys.

RicherThe Enfant-Jésus Heritage Site in Richer will host a Good Friday Walk on April 22. Meet at the Richer LUD Hall at 10:45 a.m. The walk startsat 11:00 a.m. Way of the Cross inside the Enfant-Jésus Church to follow the walk at around 11:30 a.m.

OtterburneProvidence College & Seminary would like to extend an invitation for you to join them for the Class of 2011’s Graduation Ceremonies.Providence Seminary Graduation Ceremony will take place on Saturday, April 16 at 10 a.m. Providence College Graduation Ceremony willtake place on Sunday, April 17 at 2 p.m. Both Ceremonies will be held at Providence College & Seminary, Hanna Centre Jubilee Auditorium,Otterburne.

VassarThe Vassar Recreation Centre will host a Pancake Breakfast at the Vassar Hall on Sunday, April 17 from 8:30 to noon. Also rainbow auction,50/50 cash draw and door prize. Funds raised go towards the swimming pool expenses.

St. AdolpheThe St. Adolphe Cultural Committee presents House-concert with singer/storyteller Roger Dallaire and his musician Daniel Gervais on WednesdayApril 6th, 7:30 p.m. at 1388 Road 210 in St. Adolphe. Admission is $15 per person. Lunch will be provided. For more information pleasecall 883-2383.

SteinbachCanadian Blood Services has added an extra Spring blood donor clinic to meet anticipated demand for blood over the Easter holidays.  Theclinic on Monday, April 18 is in addition to the regularly scheduled clinic on Thursday, April 21.  You can help by donating at either clinic from12:30 - 3:30 & 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Over 200 blood donors are needed at each of these clinics for surgery, trauma, cancer and other patientsover the holiday season.  You can help.  Make a commitment to save a life by donating and by bringing a friend to ensure an optimal bloodsupply during the holiday season. Call now for an appointment - 1 888 2 DONATE (1 888 236 6283).

Free monthly bus trips to the casinos of Winnipeg. Please join us for a fun day at the Casinos. Pick up in Steinbach is at 8:30 a.m. and at ParadiseVillage at approximately 9 a.m. Participants must be 18 years of age or older. There are prizes and cash for everyone. There will also be bingoon the bus. Call Marilyn at 326-4939 for date information and to reserve your seat on the bus. The next scheduled trip is April 12th.

The Christ our Savior Youth Ministry presents a Youth Rally featuring Massive Worship on Friday, April 8, 2011. Start time is 7 p.m in theSteinbach Mennonite Church at 345 Loewen Blvd. Admission is by Donation with all proceeds to South East Helping Hands. All ages arewelcome to attend.

Old time country dance April 29 at 8 p.m. - Midnight. There will be a live band, The Frazer River Boys. Advanced tickets for sale at Steinbach55 Plus office. $8 member and $10 non member or $12 at the door for all. All ages are welcome. Lunch served at 10:00 p.m.

Come Walk the World in a Day at Culturama!! Join Eastman Immigrant Services for the region’s most culturally colourful festival of its kind!This free festival showcases a variety of cultural performances. You can enjoy professional international dance, music, art and visit booths whileyou sample the wonderful array of free traditional international food on offer! There will be kids’ crafts and musical story telling. Free admissionto all, everyone welcome! For more info call Zoe at 371-1509

Help keep Steinbach a beautiful place to live by participating in the annual Pick Up and Walk Community-Wide Clean Up Saturday, April30.Meet at the T.G. Smith Arena at 9 am to pick up your route and instructions.  A complimentary barbecue lunch will be served at 12 noon. For more information, contact Grace Hiebert at 326-9020, ext 229.

LandmarkCome learn to line dance! No experience required. First hour dedicated to learning the basic steps, second hour is open to practicing what hasbeen learned or working on more complicated steps at the Landmark Kinsmen Community Centre (right beside the Landmark Arena). April 7,14, and 21. Thursday evenings from 7 to 9 pm Cost is $5 per evening per person. Everybody is welcome!

GeneralThe super start program, a healthy baby program run through south Eastman health/santé Sud-est inc. This is a program for pregnant womenand families with infants up to one year of age. Each session includes a song and rhyme time, discussions, and games on topics related to healthybabies and healthy moms. We offer a door prize and a nutritious snack. Also, we have milk coupons for expectant mothers and mothers whohave babies up to six months of age who participate in the program. This month, our session will be held on…Thursday, April 7 from 10 a.m - 12 p.m. at the Blumenort EMC Church.Tuesday, April 12 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the 4th Ave. Bible Church.Wednesday, April 13 from 10 a.m - 12 p.m. at Ste. Anne Dayspring Fellowship.Thursday, April 14 from 10 a.m - 12 p.m. in the Kleefeld Recreation Center.Tuesday, April 19 from 10 a.m - 12 p.m. in the Mitchell Mennonite Church (CMC).Thursday, April 21 from 10 a.m - 12 p.m. in the St. Pierre Health Corner, 354 Prefontaine Ave.Tuesday, April 26 from 10 a.m - 12 p.m. in the Ste. Agathe Hall.Wednesday, April 27 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. in the Lorette Community Health Office.For more information please call terry from super start at 346-7021 or just drop in.

On March 27 the Lorette Royals U14 Tween B ringette team made it a ‘double’ when they tookthe Provincial Ringette Crown at the Billy Mosienko Arena in Winnipeg. Two weeks earlier thegirls had won a hard fought series to take the Winnipeg Ringette League Championship. It wasn’t an easy weekend for the girls as one loss in the Round Robin meant they had to playthree games on the third day of the tournament while the undefeated Selkirk Stingers advanceddirectly to the final, explained the Royal’s Coach Joy Howden. “To see them play that third game on Sunday with such heart and determination was the best!”recalled Howden. “I had such a great time coaching these girls this year! To see them cometogether as a team like they did is so great, and I am so proud of all of them for all their hard workand awesome accomplishments!” Despite losing to the Selkirk Singers in their Round Robin game, the Royals proved to be toomuch in the first of two Gold medal games where they dominated Selkirk with a 6-4 victory. This setthe stage for the re-match and after building up an early lead that they would never relinquish; theRoyals won 8-5. “We asked them to give it their all and they did, every one of them,” Howden remarked. The Lorette Royals were a bit of a hybrid team this year with three players from long- time rivalSpringfield invited to play with the team. Former foes became fast friends when Taylor Sumner,Jayann Madechyck, and Bailey LePla joined the team in the fall of 2010 and had an immediateimpact on the team.

Lorette Royal’sMake it a Double

The Lorette Royals U14 Tween B ringette team won two major championships during March. The winning team consistedof: (top row left to right) Joy Howden and Darrin Lynch, Melina Audette, Jayann Madeychyk, Nicole Leclaire, ReilliHowden, Hayley Lynch, Tracey Levasseur; (middle left to right) Gabby Pfeil, Colleen Levasseur, Taylor Sumner, SarahTaylor, Alyssa Mcdonald and Breanne Gagne. Bailey Lepla is missing from the photo.

By Marianne Curtis

Every five years Statistics Canada conducts a census and the next census will take place May10. In preparation several municipalities and the City of Steinbach are working together toencourage everyone to participate. Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen explains why participation is needed. “The census numbers determine the amount of provincial and federal funding our communitiesreceive,” said Goertzen. “With everyone’s participation we can maximize our federal and provincialsupport and ensure the continuance and creation of first-rate programs and projects in ourcommunities.” The census includes every person living in Canada as well as Canadians who are abroad.When completing a questionnaire, respondents provide important information that is used tomake decisions for neighborhoods, communities, province and the country. Reeve Stan Toews of the R.M. of Hanover encourages everyone to be counted. “The 2011 Census is important to our municipalities to identify the future needs of the residents,”Toews added. “It is also a source of revenue other than property taxes.” The RM of La Broquerie has committed to working with Census Canada in collecting data fromresidents, adds Reeve Claude Lussier. “This joint effort will serve us well in the future as it will guide us in the development of policiesand services that the RM of La Broquerie needs to be able to reflect the aspirations of itspeople,” stated Lussier. Communities depend on census information when planning for new schools, roads, waterworks,public transit, and police and fire services. Town planners use census information on householdsand families to plan current and future housing needs, health care, and day-care centers. Population estimates obtained from the census are used to allocate transfer payments from thefederal government to the provinces and territories and from the provinces to municipalities. Asa decennial census, data from the 2011 Census will be used to determine the number of Membersof Parliament.

Residents Encouraged toParticipate in Census

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 11

The 3rd annual St. Pierre Recreation Center’s3rd Annual Skate-a-thon was a great success.During the one day event, twenty-three skatersparticipated and collectively raised a total of$2,560. The top two skaters, Mikael Berard andJocelyn Collette both skated over threehundred laps. They were closely followed byMyles Friesen, last year’s champion. In total, the three skate-a-thons have raisedover $11,000 in funds for the St. PierreRecreation Center. The money is being usedtowards the kitchen and hall renovations.

Skate-a-thon a Success

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!12

By Marianne Curtis

Two months after deciding to close their doors, the Steinbach HumaneSociety board has announced that the organization will be able to remainin operation, thanks to help from the community. At the end of January, Lisa Rogal, one of the founders of the SteinbachHumane Society, regretfully announced that the organization could notremain in operation. The group, which operates with the help of fosterfamilies and volunteers, was forced to make the decision due to lack offunding and support. “Due to lack of funding and manpower we could no longer stay open,”explained Rogal. “It was very disappointing.” However, when the news hit that the organization would be no longeroperating, the public stepped up. Thanks to the support of two recentfundraisers, the group was able to pay off nearly $4,000 in outstanding vetbills and recruit some new volunteers. “It is very exciting to be back in action saving lives,” stated Rogal. “Butwe need funds for a new building and more foster homes so much.” Rogal said that the group will look at applying for grants to achieve theirgoals. Until now, fundraisers have modestly supported the organization’srescue operations but did not allow for future growth. The Steinbach Humane Society was founded in June 2008 by KarenPruden and Lisa Rogal. Since then about 300 animals have been rescuedand housed with volunteer foster families until they found new homes.

HumaneSociety Backin Business

To adopt this pet or one of the adorable pets currently living infoster care and looking for forever homes, contact the SteinbachHumane Society at 326-1274. Hi there, my name is Chance because the SHS gave me a secondchance at life. I’m a friendly medium-sized, short-haired, house-trained border collie blend looking for a warm safe place to callhome. I’m told that I look like a miniature German Shepard though I’mfriendly and playful. I especially like to take baths and play in thetub where I act like a toddler. Are you looking for a little boy to playfetch with? I am too! My adoption fee is $250 and includes my first vet health check,neuter surgery and tattoo, first vaccinations and first de-worming.

Adoptable ofthe Month

By Marianne Curtis

Six seniors programs from throughout the regionwill see funding funnelled into their programmingafter a recently federal announcement. On March 22, Provencher MP Vic Toewsannounced that 14 projects totalling $160,000 will beinvested in through the New Horizons for SeniorsProgram. Of these 14 projects, six groups locatedwithin south Eastman will share a total of $63,083. “These projects will encourage seniors tocontribute their skills, knowledge and experience forthe benefit of the entire community,” stated Toews. Serving Seniors groups in Ste. Anne, SouthJunction, Niverville, Steinbach and Middlebro willbenefit from the additional funding. Le Club Jovial Inc. in Ste. Anne will receive themost funding at $25,000. The money will be used torepair the floor and replace the pool table so thatseniors can continue to participate in cards, pooland luncheons. The Steinbach 55 Plus will receive $10,000 to replacethe chairs in the auditorium. In South Junction, two groups are getting funding.The LGD of Piney Community Resource Center isslated to get $6,860 to replace three computers sothat seniors can continue to use the systems andtake computer classes. The Pinegrove Seniors aregetting $8,635 to replace the floor in their facility. In Niverville, Golden Fellowship Circle is getting$7,918 to replace four stoves, kitchen counters andbacksplash so that seniors can continue to participatein the weekly meal program and other activities. Finally, the Eager Beaver Seniors Club fromMiddlebro is getting $4,670 to replace the furniture,appliances and equipment at the facility so seniorscan still participate in the weekly meal program, socialclub and special events.

By Marianne Curtis

Come September, grade six studentsattending school in Niverville will findthemselves moving to the high schoolinstead of remaining at NivervilleElementary School. Hanover School Divisionsuperintendent Ken Klassen hasconfirmed that the division has receivedapproval from the province that fournew portable classrooms can be locatedat the Niverville Collegiate due to lakeof room at the elementary school. “The portable classrooms will beplaced at the high school because thereis no room at the elementary school,”Klassen explained. “We have looked atthe yard and realized that we could fittwo or three portables at the school butif we keep adding there would be noplayground left.” The Hanover School Division has anew school for Niverville in their fiveyear plan but it could take awhile beforefunding could be in place. “That means that in the short term wehave to look at portable classrooms,”Klassen continued. “If growth continueswe will need to have a bigger solution.” When school reconvenes in September,the existing elementary school willbecome a kindergarten to grade 5 schooland the high school will become a grade6 to 12 school. This is expected to givethe school division the option of creatinga middle school in Niverville at a laterdate. Meanwhile, the division has alreadydecided to create one wing of theNiverville Collegiate for grades 6 to 8students in order to segregate the youngerstudents from the older ones. There isalso consideration being given to hostinga special orientation and welcome dayfor new students where only the grade 6and 7 students are at school on the firstday, which is already being done at someof the division’s other schools. The Hanover School Division iscontinuing to work with the communityand parents on this issue. Aninformation meeting is expected to takeplace in the next few months for parentsof students who will be going to the highschool next year.

Despite a high success rate, the organization has been unable to raiseenough money to keep the organization afloat and proceed toward theirdream – constructing an actual humane society building in the community. Anyone wishing to either adopt a pet, foster an animal or wishing to helpin other ways is encouraged can contact Lisa at 326-1274.

NivervilleStudentsPreparefor Move

SoutheastProgramming forSeniors Get Funds

Seine River Services for seniorshas announced the winners of theSRS Raffle Fundraiser which washeld on February 17. The Grand Prizeof $614.75 was won by Mr. J. Holmesof Ste. Anne. Second prize of $368.85was won by M. Zebrasky and thirdPrize of $245.90 was won by L.Saindon of Richer. Fourth Prize, $200worth of gasoline, donated byRicher Husky went to Mrs. Brissonof La Broquerie. Fifth prize, anoutdoor swing and hammock whichwas donated by Don VincentBackhoe & Excavation, went to Mrs.J. Lessard Kulchyski of LaBroquerie.

Raffle WinnersAnnounced

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 13

By Marianne Curtis

For the ninth consecutive yearthe Bethesda Regional HealthCare Auxiliary has hosted asuccessful book sale at theClearspring Center thanks to bothdonators and buyers alike. After four days thousands ofgently used books, records,tapes, magazines, puzzles, andgames found new homes andover $15,000 was raised by theAuxiliary. The money raised at the event,which took place March 23 to 26,will be used to purchase a $70,000gamma probe for the BethesdaHospital. The specializedequipment is used primarily forsentinel lymph node mapping,which makes breast cancerdetection less invasive. Bethesda Regional Health CareAuxiliary spokesperson VernaThiessen was pleased with thesuccess of this spring’s sale. “The community and thevolunteers are what make saleslike these a success,” praisedThiessen. “Without their helpthis fundraiser would not be assuccessful.” The Bethesda Health CareAuxiliary started hosting the

By Marianne Curtis

The community of Niverville was left reeling after an earlymorning fire at the end of March completely destroyed a stripmall containing seven businesses. Niverville fire crews were called to the Main Street strip malllocated on the east side of the community around 1:30 a.m. onMarch 29 after a 911 call was placed by a passer-by whospotted flames coming from a second floor window. Thevolunteer fire department along with the help of neighbouringfire departments was finally able to control the blaze threehours later but the building was a total loss. The $2.2 million blaze destroyed the entire building containingbusinesses including a bakery, bookstore and linen andglassware rental business as well as a number of offices, shopsand warehouse space. No one was injured in the blaze. Despise the entire loss of her business, Kristin Von Riesenand her sister who own the Slice of Life Bakery, remainsoptimistic. “We are definitely going to rebuild and be running as soonas possible,” she says. “We were hoping to expand a little butnow that the whole building is coming down we can startover.” She admitted that while the initial call was a shock and for amoment she panicked.

Book Sale Nets Over $15,000

There was something for everyone among the thousands of books that were donatedto the Bethesda Regional Health Care Auxiliary Book Sale where $15,000 was raised forequipment at the local hospital.

annual book sale several years ago and has raised well over $100,000 for avariety of medical equipment needed in the region but not covered byManitoba Health. Since 1980 the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary has presentednearly $400,000 worth of medical equipment to Bethesda Hospital. Cash donations are also being accepted. They can be mailed to the BethesdaHealth Care Auxiliary at 316 Henry Street, Steinbach R5G 0P9.

Fire Levels Niverville Businesses “We were kind of worried that it was just our bakeryand that we had caused some sort of fire,” Von Riesenadded. “It was a relief to know that it wasn’t started byus.” A couple of the other businesses destroyed included‘A Touch of Glass’ which is a linen and glassware rentalbusiness and ‘Solomon’s Porch, which is a bookstore,along with a woodworking shop and several upstairsoffices.

Niverville mayor Greg Fehr says that the fire is a blow tothe community. “These businesses have suffered a setback because theywill have to find somewhere else to continue operating,” Fehrsays. ``At the same time, it could have been worse and we aregrateful that the fire department was able to contain the blaze.” While the exact cause of the blaze is not known at this time,the fire commissioner’s office has determined that the blazestarted at the center of the mall and spread outwards.

The sign in the forefront is the only thing left after a $2.2 million fire destroyedthe entire strip mall containing several businesses at the east end of Niverville.

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!14

Hebrews 4:14-16 … 14) Therefore, since we have a great highpriest which has gone through theheavens, Jesus the Son of God, let ushold firmly to the faith we profess. 15)For we do not have a high priest who isunable to sympathize with ourweaknesses, but we have one whohas been tempted in every way, justas we are—yet was without sin.16) Let us then approach thethrone of grace withconfidence, so that we mayreceive mercy and find grace tohelp us in our time of need.(NIV) We look at our Lord’s life andcrucifixion here on earth andlisten to his words and we say, “Here is someone who understandswhat is happening to us.” He has experienced all life’s bitternessand heartaches. He knows how difficult it is for me to overcome oldhabits that are harmful to my spiritual life. He understands ourindifference and our soul’s resistance to change. He understandsthe power of sensual attraction. He has felt the arrogance of others;He has seen the smirks and ill-disciplined smiles. He has experiencedchilliness and the inability of others to understand. He knows. Heunderstands. That means we can approach Him in prayer withconfidence. Doubts come and go, but we need not be alarmed or becomeoverwhelmed by them. Doubt is not a first sign that our faith hasfailed but that it is being attacked. When doubts come we shouldcounter by reminding ourselves of their source and that what thedevil says about God is not true … Satan is a liar. Then we canrenew our mind and strengthen our heart with the truth that God isthe God who does not lie. He is working for our good. There isnothing like Christ’s presence to dispel the fear, the panic, and theterror of the unknown. Any hour can bring disaster, danger anddistress from many unknown quarters. We live in a world driven byfear and troublesome times. However, you and I can live at peacebecause of the Holy Spirit who lives in our heart. Sometimes you and I think that all is doomed to failure. But then allat once there comes the awareness, the consciousness, therealization that the Holy Spirit is there. His presence makes all thedifference. Things are not so black or so terrifying. The outlookchanges and there is hope. Then we find ourselves delivered fromfear. Rest returns and we can relax. This is the special work of God’sgracious Spirit that communicates with our fearful heart. He comesquietly to reassure us that Christ Himself is aware of our problemand deeply involved in it with us. The Bible teaches that Christbrings peace to a troubled heart. That means Jesus Christ deliversus from tension, rivalry, and cruel competition within our circle offriends. Should we allow the devil to suck us into this quagmire, itwould not take long to find that envy would show its ugly face. Thisis where the smallest of things can grow into horrible hate. It iswhen ill-will and contempt come into being, the place where heatedrivalry and deep discontent is born. It is here that dissatisfactiongradually grows into a way of life where one has to be foreverstanding up to claim their rights. Most of us have had to break up some form of ruckus, wheresomeone or somebody was trying to get to the top. But moreimportant was the fact that it was the Holy Spirit’s presence that putan end to all the rivalry. In our human relationships, when webecome acutely aware of being in the presence of Christ, our foolish,selfish snobbery and rivalry will end. This is the place of rest, and Imust remind myself over and over again that in the end it is Christwho will decide and judge what my status really is. After all, it is Hisjudgment of me/us that is of importance. Any human measurement isat best bound to be pretty unpredictable and unreliable. To be close to Christ is to be conscious of His abiding presencewhich is made so real in our mind by the indwelling Holy Spirit.There is the wider but equal awareness of God all around us. We livesurrounded by His presence. We are open minded individuals, opento His scrutiny. He is conscious of every circumstance we encounterbecause we belong to Him. Would you pray this prayer with me? “Lord Jesus, come into myheart. Forgive my sins. I want my life to change. My thoughts andmy attitude need to change. I do not have the peace in my heart thatI yearn for. I really want that peace, joy and happiness that will fulfillmy heart’s desire. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind ofChristian that will honor Your Name.” Amen.

Someone WhoUnderstands

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 15

By Marianne Curtis

The RM of Ritchot recentlybecame the first municipality in theprovince to go green by connectingthree community buildings togetheron one geothermal system which isexpected to save money throughenergy efficiency. On March 19, residents fromGrande Point and Ile des Chênescelebrated the completion ofextensive renovations at thecommunity’s local recreation centerwith the RM of Ritchot officiallygoing green. The project, which is also a first inthe entire province, consisted ofinstalling a geothermal system thatconnects the arena, and the fire-hall.It also will soon be cooling andheating the new community centeronce construction is complete. Roger Perron, EconomicDevelopment Officer of RitchotCommunity Development

Ile Des Chênes CelebratesGreen Re-opening

Corporation, said this project makesRitchot one of the greenestmunicipalities in Manitoba. “We are the first to have a districtgeothermal system capable ofheating three or more buildings,”stated Perron. “The arena nowoperates in an environmentallyfriendly manner.” Ritchot Mayor Bob Stefaniukexpects that the geothermal systemwill pay for itself over the years. “This is a very efficient system,”said Stefaniuk. “It will last a longtime, which will save us a lot ofmoney in the long run.” The Ile des Chênes arena projectcost $1.3 million, with the provincekicking in $430,000 through theBuilding Manitoba Fund. The arenaboard expects to reduce their utilitycosts by 50 percent. The project involved replacing theexisting ice surface concrete, iceplant, dasher boards, bleachers andzamboni room. The natural gas

heating system was removed and aGeo-thermal system was installed. A new zamboni room was also builtwith geo heat in the ice pit and thezamboni room. An electric zamboniwas purchased to replace theexisting propane powered ice maker.

Ron Lemieux, MLA for La Vérendrye, andRitchot Mayor Bob Stefaniuk get ready tocut the ribbon at the grand re-opening of theIle des Chênes Arena.

By Marianne Curtis

The arrival of spring may be delayed but the Steinbach and area GardenClub is excitedly preparing for another season by hosting an event for allgarden enthusiasts from throughout the region. Karen Loewen, President of the Steinbach & Area Garden Club saysthat the club is hosting several upcoming evenings and the general publicis invited to participate. On April 18, the group is hosting a Gardener’s Desert evening. Theevent, which will take place at the Mennonite Heritage Village draws two-hundred and fifty gardeners and their friends. “This event is open to the public as well as garden club members,”explained Loewen. “We organize this evening, not as a fundraiser, butsolely for the enjoyment of the gardeners and to highlight gardening inthe area.” For the event, Lyndon Penner, a well known Calgary horticulturist andCBC Radio’s gardening expert will be guest speaking on the topic of“Adventures of Gardening on 4 Continents.” “. “It’s all related to gardening, from the fantastic silent auction prizes

During the month of April theannual sugar festival will take placein St. Pierre at the Cabane Sucre. The annual Sugaring Off Party isbeing held on April 16 and 17 from10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Cabane àSucre, at the Musée de Saint-Pierre-Jolys Museum in St. Pierre. Each year visitors from a wide areacome to the festival, which isdesigned to celebrate the traditionof tapping Maple sap to make syrupand maple butter. As part of thecelebrations, visitors to the CabaneSucre are shown how to properly tapMaple trees for the sweetnessinside. They are then shown thedehydrating process followed bythe opportunity to sample thefinished product. This weekend event promises tobe full of activities, including taffyon snow, an interpretive centerdemonstrating the production ofmaple syrup, horse wagon rides,museum tours, traditional French-Canadian dining and localentertainment. There is noadmission.

Garden Club Gears Upfor Spring

(which are donated by gardeningrelated businesses) to the food anddecorating, and of course, thespeaker,” Loewen added. The evening event will take placeApril 18 at the Mennonite HeritageVillage in Steinbach at 7:00 p.m.Tickets are $18.00 and are availableby calling Anne at 326-2396. SAGCmemberships are also available atthat number. In addition to the desert evening,the group will be hosting a plant salein May and at least two garden tours,one of which is expected to drawseveral hundred gardeners fromWinnipeg. The Steinbach and Area GardenClub (SAGC) has a membership ofabout 150 local gardeners withapproximately 60% being inSteinbach, and the remaining 40%from 18 communities throughout thesoutheast.

Sugaring OffFestival Coming

to St. Pierre

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!16

By Marianne Curtis

Former RM of La Broquerieadministrator Larry Tetrault has beennamed as the first officialConservative candidate in the newprovincial riding of Dawson Trail. On March 21, Tetrault was officiallynamed as the first Conservativecandidate for the new riding ofDawson Trail after he was acclaimedat a nomination meeting that night. “It is time for change in Manitobaespecially in Dawson Trail,” statedTetrault. “The NPD government istired and out of touch with ruralcommunities. We need a freshoutlook and renewed energy, notgrandiose projects that only serve afew.” No stranger to politics, Tetrault hasserved his community for 36 yearsas the Chief Administrative Officerat the RMs of La Broquerie andSpringfield. The bilingual father offive has deep roots in the farmingcommunity, is an experiencedbusiness owner, and has served onnumerous boards. “The residents of Dawson Trailwant change,” explains LaurentTétrault. “After 12 long years at thehelm of our province, thegovernment has become tired andis lacking in new ideas. Manitoba’seconomy is lagging behind, we havereturned to deficit financing, and ourrural communities have beenabandoned. It is time to inject newenergy in our province.” Provincial Conservative leaderHugh McFayden was on hand tocongratulate Tetrault. “I am excited about Larry and Iwelcome him to the team – he sharesthe same values and concerns,”

One of south-eastern Manitoba’slargest summer festivals is gettingextra funding thanks to the federalgovernment. On March 21 it was announcedthat the Hanover Agriculture Fair,which takes place each summer inGrunthal, will receive $30,100 infederal funding towards theirupcoming 66th Annual Fair. The fair, which is slated to takeplace August 18 to 21, drawsspectators and participants fromacross the province to celebrateagriculture in the region. TheHanover Agriculture Fair showcaseslocal bands, musicians and singersalong with a rodeo, agriculture fairand historical demonstrations. The federal grant was madepossible through the BuildingCommunities through Arts andHeritage program.

Several railway crossingsthroughout southern Manitoba willsee improvements made after thefederal government pitched in$22,800 towards four projects. The funding, which is under a newprogram called Grade CrossingImprovement Program, will be usedto replace existing incandescentlights with LED lights at railcrossings. The four projects include thereplacement of a total of 38 lights atcrossings along Highways 11, 12,302 and at Oakbank Road. The LED replacement initiative isthe result of a study on LEDTechnology for ImprovedConspicuity of Signal Lights atHighway-Railway Grade Crossingssponsored by Transport Canada(TC) and its stakeholders. Thereplacement is expected toimmediately have a positive effect onrail safety in the area.

The community of St. Pierre isgoing blue this summer in supportof the “Out of the Blue” SuicidePrevention program. The St. Pierre Community in Bloomcommittee is in the process ofplanning their summer flower basketorder after making the decision tofill them with a variety of blue flowersthis year in support of the program.This is just one of many “blue”events being planned for during themonth of April and beyond. The “Out of the Blue” programwhich is being funding by SouthEastman Health, is geared to addresssuicide prevention by providingeducation and skill development byproviding education and skilldevelopment to community and toservice providers. During February and March,South Eastman Health’s SuicidePrevention Committee visitedschools and talked to studentsabout “the blues”. Now they areopening up the campaign to thegeneral public by encouraging themto “go blue” and participate incertain awareness activities whichare outlined on their website. At theend of May, the event will be cappedoff with a gala event where awardswill be presented to the bestparticipants in each category. Anyone wishing to either learnmore about suicide prevention or

The Hanover School Division is polling parents with students goinginto Kindergarten in Grunthal on how they would feel about an all-day kindergarten class. According to Randy Hilderbrand, people from Grunthal have beencoming forward and asking for an all-day kindergarten class, everysecond day. “This is something that we have already been experimenting within Niverville,” Hilderbrand explained. The Niverville Elementary Schoolhas been offering the every second day, all-day class for two yearsnow with such success that it is carrying on into a third. “The board is open to whatever a community wants when it comesto kindergarten schedules,” he added that there is no board mandateon the matter. The Hanover School Division has decided to send out a survey toparents to see how they feel about the concept before any decisionis made on the matter.

Grunthal Looks at All-Day KindergartenHanover Ag FairReceives Federal

Funding

Tetrault Makes Bidfor Dawson Trail

McFayden said. “His experience inlocal government will be animportant asset as we go forward.” This is not the first time thatTetrault has made a bid for provincialpolitics. Four years ago, he wasunsuccessful in his bid to replaceJake Penner when he retired afteryears as Emerson’s legislativemember. The Manitoba PC Party now has33 nominated candidates for the nextprovincial election. “Our party has never beenstronger than it is today – we areready to take on the NDP machineand offer Manitoban’s somethingbetter,” added McFayden. Tetrault will be taking on currentLa Verendrye MLA and cabinetminister Ron Lemiuex who wasrecently nominated as the first NDPcandidate for Dawson Trail. TheLiberal party has yet to name theircandidate for the fall provincialelection.

Provincial PC leader Hugh McFaydenwelcomes candidate Larry Tetrault (right) tothe team after he was recently named thefirst PC candidate for the newly formedconstituency of Dawson Trail.

Railway CrossingsGet Funding

St. Pierre Goes Blue for Causeparticipate by organizing a “blueevent” can visit outoftheblue-jasonsdublues.ca for moreinformation.

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 17

By Marianne Curtis

An RM of Reynolds business recently received a major funding boostthanks to the federal government and Canada’s Economic Action Plan. On March 4 Berger Peat Moss Inc, which is located in Hadashville,received Federal funding of $1,072,763 through the Community AdjustmentFund (CAF) as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. Denis Lebel, director of Operations from Berger Peat Moss, said hiscompany will invest the money in local operation improvements. “Berger Peat Moss is investing in the Hadashville plant to enhance ourproduction capacity and become more competitive while ensuring a longterm relationship with the community,” said Lebel. “This will enhancecurrent operations and create job opportunities.” According to Lebel, Berger will construct storage pads; build field accessroads and open bog areas; implement the Customs-Trade PartnershipAgainst Terrorism (C-TPAT) program; enhance screening equipment inthe plant; and purchase loading and field harvester operating equipment. Berger Peat Moss, which originated from Quebec, opened the operationin Hadashville in 2008. The company invested $6 million in an operation toharvest and sell peat moss while bringing twenty new jobs into the area. For almost 50 years Berger Peat Moss, Ltd. has been harvesting peatmoss in Quebec and in 1986, harvesting began in New Brunswick. Thecompany provides services to professional growers in over 15 countries.

How many of you have heard of Clue: TheMovie? I know I have, but then again, I havea VHS copy and have watched it numeroustimes. This little gem came out in 1985 and isbased on the Parker Brothers board game Clue.Using the names from the game: Miss Scarlett,Professor Plum, Mrs. White, Ms. Peacock,

Colonel Mustard and Mr. Green; along with a few extra characters to roundout the roster like the butler, the maid, the cook and Mr. Boddy. The charactersmust try to discover who the killer is before they get killed or the police arrive,whichever comes first. As the movie plays on the characters get more and more frazzled trying tofind out who the killer is and this, of course, adds to the hilarity. From accidentally finding secret passages, to having a Doberman pinscheroutside the Conservatory, to having the lights turned out, they must keeptrying to stay ahead of the killer (…was that a gunshot?). One of my favorite parts is when Colonel Mustard has just finished goingthrough another frightening ordeal and he stresses to everyone that he can’thandle anymore surprises. As he finishes speaking, he steps forward and justmisses having a chandelier crash down on him. As it smashes right behind himhe gets this awesome look of shock and terror on his face. That scene alonenearly bursts my sides with laughter. One more thing, this movie also has a very unique feature to it… it has threesurprise endings! Quite cool. Now after having watched it again, my mind turns to the board game andhow much I enjoy playing it. The question is, do I risk inviting my five year-old son to play a round of Clue with me? After having been whupped atCandy Land and more recently at Monopoly, I’m not sure that I want to takethe chance at being outsmarted at Clue. I’m just not sure that I can handle thattype of humiliation. Of course, I could get lucky and win… Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.

By Marianne Curtis

After years of controversy the province has finally added Mediationand Sylvia Lakes in Whiteshell Provincial Park to their natural protectedareas list. In recent years Mediation Lake has been at the center of controversyafter wildlife protection groups were successful is shutting down a bid toconstruct a youth camp at the location. These groups raised concernsthat such a development would negatively impact the lakes after clearcutting in the area was believed to be the cause for a mass fresh waterclam die-off. Conservation Minister Bill Blaikie explained why the province addedthe lakes to their list. “These two areas were the focus of public reviews related to the proposedTim Horton Foundation Youth Leadership Camp,” said Blaikie. “The reviewprocess has led to our decision to ensure the Meditation Lake area remainsas undeveloped backcountry and that the lands adjacent to the camp atSylvia Lake will not be developed or made accessible for new cottagedevelopment.” Under the new policies both lakes will be managed as natural,undeveloped landscapes for today and for future generations. A land-usecategory change will be initiated in the near future adding an additionallevel of protection to these sites, Blaikie added.

South Eastman Health and its board of directors recently unveiled theirnew 2011-2016 Strategic Plan which is expected to meet the board’s visionof achieving wellness and the best possible health by residents in southernManitoba. According to Monique Vielfaure Mackenzie, the strategic plan is thefinal product that came from months of discussion, consultations andresearch. “The plan was developed using an evidence-based approach todetermine the Health Authority’s focus for the next five years,” saidVielfaure Mackenzie. “Results from our recent Community HealthAssessment were taken into consideration to identify the best possibleapproach to meet the health needs of our citizens.” South Eastman Health’s list of Strategic Priorities includes strengtheningregional primary health services; enhancing regional mental healthservices; fostering greater individual ownership and responsibility forhealth; addressing the expanding health needs of the region’s agingpopulation and achieving more equitable health service delivery acrossregional populations. In addition, the RHA Board defined five evidence-based Strategic Themesthat will guide all health services designed to meet the region’s StrategicPriorities throughout the five-year planning period. These themes includea continued focus on patient safety and quality, addressing the impacts ofregional population growth, strengthening communications amongproviders and the community and a focus on recruitment and retention.

On May 1, the St. Malo Provincial Park will be the site of the 8th annualHike for Hospice. Registration starts at 1PM and at 2PM participants willtake part in a six kilometer walk through the park to raise money for theregion’s palliative care program. The purpose of the Hike for Hospice Palliative Care is to help SouthEastman Health raise much-needed funds for the region’s local hospicepalliative care program. It is also held to raise awareness of hospice palliativecare programs and services within the community, and awareness of thephenomenal professional, family and informal caregivers who care forthose at the end of life. The Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association reports that 80% ofCanadians say they want quality hospice palliative care at the end of theirlife, yet currently less than 15% of Canadians have access to this type ofcare. Preregistration can be done by downloading the registration form fromthe South Eastman Health website or at the event. Registration fees rangefrom $10 for students and $25 for adults. All money raised will remain in the region and used locally.

The RM of De Salaberry Economic Development Office is looking forthe names of a few good women or men that may have been exemplaryvolunteers in the municipality throughout the past year. Every year the municipality and St. Malo Chamber of Commercerecognizes an individual that has made a significant difference in thecommunity by naming them Volunteer of the Year during a special eveningevent complete with an award and public recognition. “That‘s the night we recognize the efforts of individuals in our communityfor their tireless contributions to our community,” stated Lorraine Jones-Racine, president of the St. Malo Chamber of Commerce. This year, the organization plans to present twelve individuals with anaward to recognize their efforts. In addition two awards will be given twoyouth volunteers under the age of 25 who have made contributions toschool, organizations or community through volunteer work. This year’s Volunteer Recognition evening will take place May 14 at theIberville Hall in St. Malo. To nominate a worthy volunteer please contactLorraine at 347-5624.

Should a flood emergency take place this spring, the City of Steinbachhas committed to being a host community for evacuees. The provincial Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) has officiallyrequested that the City of Steinbach be ready to host flood evacuees ifneeded. Denis Vassart, Steinbach’s emergency coordinator is asking localresidents to step forward and sign up as billet families, similar to what wasdone during the 1997 flood. “We need to know who can host families and how many people theywould be willing to have in their home for a time that could exceed two orthree weeks,” stated Vassart. The City of Steinbach is also preparing in the event that the arena orother similar facility may be required. If this happens, the Red Cross orfederal government’s National Emergency Stockpile System would supplycots and blankets. Vassart pointed out that EMO has indicated that there is only a tenpercent chance that Steinbach will be used as a host community, but thecity must be ready for the “worst case scenario”. Anyone interested in opening their home to possible flood evacuees isencouraged to contact Vassart at the City of Steinbach office by calling326-9877.

Mediation Lake Added toProtected Areas List

Billet Families Wanted in Steinbach

Chamber to Host Volunteer Appreciation

Hike for Hospice Kicks Off in May

RHA Unveils Strategic Plan

Feds Invest $1 Million inHadashville Business

Caisse Financial Group hasannounced a donation matchingprogram up to $10,000 and is invitingits members and all those interestedin helping the victims of theearthquake and tsunami in Japan tomake a donation at any of their 26branch locations or via e-Caisseonline banking service. Caisse Financial Group will matchdonations collected at its branchesand via e-Caisse, dollar for dollar, upto $10,000. “As a co-operative we arecommitted to the well-being ofcommunities, and the entirecommunity of Japan desperatelyneeds the immediate assistance ofindividuals, organizations andbusinesses across the globe to beable to surmount the difficulties theyface. We want to encourage all thosewilling to join the critical fundraisingefforts, therefore Caisse FinancialGroup will match donations, dollarfor dollar, up to $10,000, similar tothe matching program we offered forthe recent catastrophe in Haiti,”announced Joël Rondeau, ChiefExecutive Officer. Donations collected will be remittedto the Canadian Red Cross. Forfurther details please visitwww.caisse.biz.

In the early morning hours ofOctober 9 Steinbach RCMPresponded to a residence onBarkman Avenue in Steinbach wherea female reported that she had beenattacked in her garage by an intruderarmed with a knife. Membersattended and determined that a 21-year-old female resident of the homehad returned from taking her dog fora walk and was attacked when sheentered her garage. The female was able to fight offthe attacker and yell for help. Theattacker then fled on foot. He wasdescribed as being Caucasian male,five feet ten inches tall with a skinnyframe. A police dog attended but wasnot able to track the suspect. Thevictim suffered minor injuries to herhands as a result of theconfrontation. On March 11 Steinbach RCMP,with the assistance of the RCMPMajor Crime Unit and the Ste. AnnePolice Department, arrested 30-year-old Ronald Dyck of Steinbach. Hehas since been charged with Break,Enter and Committing an Assaultwith a Weapon. Dyck has also beencharged with Break, Enter and Theftfor an incident that occurred at thesame residence last June 23. Dyck is still in police custody andwill be remanded into custody.

Clued In

ArmedIntruderArrested

HelpEarthquakeand Tsunami

Victims inJapan

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!18

Spring cleaning is an annual tradition at households across the country. Whether you live in astudio apartment or a sprawling mansion, the rejuvenating feeling of spring stems from more thanjust the warm air outdoors. It’s also the opportunity to open the windows and let that warm airbreathe some new life into your home. Though spring cleaning is primarily about ridding a home of a season’s worth of clutter, it shouldalso be about making a home healthier for the months to come. Once the clutter has been cleared,the following cleaning tips can make your home a healthy haven when those inevitable springshowers arrive.Tackle mold and mildew Few homes can escape the wrath of mold and mildew during the winter months. In addition tobeing unsightly, exposure to mold can also cause a host of physical problems, including respiratoryailments, eye irritation, and nasal and sinus congestion. There are highly effective products availableto control mold and mildew and prevent any future problems, such as those that commonly resultfrom spring rains.Clean the filters, ducts and vents Spring might be synonymous with warmer temperatures, but for allergy sufferers spring can be adifficult time of year. When spring cleaning, don’t forget to thoroughly clean filters, ducts and vents tohelp decrease exposure to airborne allergens.Protect against viruses and bacteria Effectively cleaning a home can involve several preventive measures to keep everyone free fromviruses and bacteria. A high quality disinfectant will rid a home of many “potential sniffles.”Clear the garage and basement of potentially harmful supplies Garages and basements are often used to store paints, paint thinners, oils, solvents, and otherpotentially toxic supplies. If any of these toxic supplies are old, consult your local municipality todetermine how best to discard such items. For those you want to keep, be sure the lids are tight andnot leaking potentially harmful chemicals into the air.Make up for lost time For those who don’t consider spring cleaning an annual tradition, it’s never too late to startmaking your home a healthier place.Embrace eco-friendly cleaning A healthy home should also be one that’s healthy for the environment.

Spring Clean Your Wayto a Healthier Home

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 19

The spring season is a time for many things, from rediscovering the great outdoors toclearing the clutter leftover from another long winter. For many homeowners, that spring cleaning also means a careful examination of ahome’s exterior. Winter can prove especially harsh on a home’s exterior, in particular

the roof. While stains on the ceiling or obvious leaksare easy ways to detect roof damage, many timesproblems with a roof are not so obvious. Forhomeowners hoping to give their roof a thorough end-of-winter examination, consider the following tips forrecognizing roof damage.* Look on the ground surrounding the home. While itmight seem odd to look down to see if a roof has beendamaged, some of the most telltale signs of roofdamage could be right in the yard, nearby bushes ordriveway. Strong winds, common in many regionsduring the winter months, can blow off shingles. Thoseshingles can then land in the yard, trees, bushes,driveway, etc. In areas that receive heavy snowfallduring the winter months, these shingles can get buriedin the snow, all the while giving homeowners a falsesense of security with respect to their roof. Once thesnow clears, homeowners should take a walk aroundthe property and look on the grounds for any shingles,

be it full shingles or pieces of shingle. This is best done as soon as possible anddefinitely should be done before the first lawn mowing of the spring season.* Get on the ladder and get up on the roof. The best way to detect any roof damage isto go up on the roof. Certain roof damage requires careful inspection, as not all roofdamage announces its presence via a leaky ceiling or blown off shingle. Roof damagefrom hail, for instance, leaves marks or dents on the shingles and can even crack theshingles’ tabs. Oftentimes, such damage isn’t noticeable to the naked eye, requiring acareful rooftop inspection.* Inspect for fire damage. The obvious response to being advised to inspect a roof forfire damage is to ask, “Well, if my home hasn’t been on fire, how can my roof haveundergone any fire damage?” Unfortunately, even a neighboring fire can cause firedamage to roofs within its proximity. Heat from a nearby fire can cause damage to aroof that was never actually on fire. That damage will manifest itself via scorch marks onthe roof or areas of the roof that seem inconsistent. Such inconsistencies might be theresult of melting, which could also have caused damage to the material beneath theshingles, be it wood or metal. Homeowners living in neighborhoods where there was afire over the winter should look for signs of fire damage.* Inspect the roof’s supporting cast. Homeowners living in regions where heavy snowfallis common should also look at the support beams in their attics. Roofs tend to take abeating in regions with heavy snowfall, as the weight of all that snow can take its tollover time. That toll can extend to support beams in the attic, resulting in saggingsupports or cracks. Even if the roof appears to have made it through another harshwinter, it’s still a safe and smart bet to see how well the roof’s supporting cast handledthe harsh weather as well.

Recognizing Roof Damage

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!20

Restoring a yard after a long winter is a springtime rite of passage for manyhomeowners. Harsh winds and heavy snow can take their toll on even themost beautiful landscape. Spring is a homeowner’s first chance to survey the damage and beginrestoring the yard to where it was before all those strong winds andsnowstorms. To get started on your yard this spring, consider the followingtips.* Don’t begin too early. The early bird might get the worm, but the earlyhomeowner might get a damaged lawn. If temperatures for an upcoming freeweekend are unseasonably warm, it’s best to avoid doing spring yard cleanupuntil there have been several warm weekends to thaw the ground. Unless theground has completely thawed, footsteps on the yard will damage the grass,compacting the soil and preventing the air and moisture that soil needs fromdoing its job and penetrating the soil. What’s more, if the yard is raked beforethe ground has thawed, the rake might just be pulling the grass out by its roots.* Survey the property. A close survey of the property will give homeowners anidea of just how big or small their restoration project will be. A thoroughsurvey will reveal any problem areas and may also reveal some unexpectedguests. Rabbits and squirrels often nest in yards during the winter. Rabbits willnest in the ground, while squirrels typically build nests made of leaves in thetrees. Unless it’s entirely necessary, avoid removing any nests, and be sure tocarefully inspect the yard before the season’s first mow.* Out with the old. When the cleanup process is ready to begin, it’s time to

When the warm weather arrives, people ventureoutdoors and animals wake up from hibernation. Manyinsects hatch or revive from winter slumber and can becommonly seen in and around the home. Once temperatures rise to about 12 C, many insectsstart their life cycles anew with eggs or larva hatchingand winged and webbed creatures rearing theirattenaed heads. It can be frustrating for homeownersfacing an insect infestation, especially when bugs arefound in quantities inside or around the perimeter ofthe home. There are many insects one might see in spring.* Ants: Small black ants, called pavement ants, comeout of dormancy and begin to forage for food andnests. Although pavement ants build their coloniesoutdoors, they will venture inside for easy foodsources. They can be nuisance pests if not quicklytackled. Carpenter ants are large, black ants that arefound in and around the home. They build nests andchannels in wood, so they can be particularlytroublesome to homeowners for the potential structuraldamage they may cause. If they are seen in numberinside of the home, there already may be an establishedcolony inside of the walls.* Bees: Bees and wasps may overwinter in home atticsor eaves and then come out of dormancy. If a large beeis seen inside of the home, chances are it is a queenlooking for a good nesting area in which to lay hereggs and set up her new colony. Treat bee and waspproblems early on before established nests can becreated.* Termites: Subterranean termites swarm when it iswarm or in the morning. Swarming termites are thosetaking flight to create new nests and colonies. Swarmscan be scary for homeowners as they likely indicate atermite problem inside of the house. Consult with aprofessional exterminator if termite infestation issuspected.* Spiders: Where there are other insects, there will bespiders to prey on them. When building a nest, spidersprefer out-of-the-way places that are dark andcomfortable. There are some spiders, like the wolf

Restore Your Property OnceWinter Weather is Gone

remove remnants from last season. This includes removing anydead plants as well as last year’s mulch. If new mulch is simplythrown on top of old, plants could suffocate. Dead leaves also tendto gather during the winter, often up against fences or a home’sexterior walls. Rake up these dead leaves and add them to theseason’s compost.* Get rid of thatch. Thatch can be soil’s worst enemy, preventing itsaccess to the sunlight, air and moisture it needs to make the lawnlook beautiful and healthy. Thatch removal can be tiresome, but visitthe local hardware store and pick up a dethatching rake to make thejob a little easier. Thatch removal isn’t always necessary everyspring. Many homeowners have found removing thatch every otheryear is effective enough.* Aerate the yard to revive the soil. Soil often becomes compactedas spring becomes summer and summer becomes fall. This isespecially true of yards that are heavily used, be it by kids playingoutdoors or families who love to host warm weather gatherings inthe yard. Aerating in the spring  removes plugs of sod from the soil,loosening it up and making it easier for air and water to reach theroots. * Address those ugly bald spots. Bare spots in a yard can resultfrom any number of things, be it a dog urinating in the yard or evendisease. Early spring, when temperatures are a little cooler and

Identify All Those Pesky Springtime Pestsspider, that will actively attack insects instead of lying in waitfor a web to snare them. To keep spiders out of the home,make sure it is pest-free. Some homeowners like spidersaround the home because they can prevent other insectsfrom becoming nuisances.* Flies and gnats: Springtime may be a season when certainvarieties of flies and gnats emerge from their infant stagesand take flight. Certain flies and gnats bite, while otherssimply are buzzing nuisances.* House centipedes: It’s likely that homeowners willencounter house centipedes mostly in spring and fallbecause the insects are either coming out due to thewarmer weather or retreating indoors to find a warm placeto stay. These centipedes prefer a cool, damp place to live,

promote grass growth, is a great time toaddress the yard’s bald spots. Do so byclearing away the spots and sprinkling thefreshly exposed soil with some grass seed.Then add some fertilizer and be sure thenewly seeded areas get some water until thenew, healthy grass begins to grow in.

like a basement or bathroom, and generally lay 60 or more eggs at one time.They feed on many different insects, including spiders. But their alarmingappearance, which includes 15 pairs of feathery legs, makes few homeownerscontent to share a residence with them. As humans and other animals become active and enjoy the warmer weather,so, too, do many insects and arachnids. Springtime is a common season toencounter many of the “bugs” that disappeared when winter weather reared itsugly head.

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 21

What is a Water Table? The zone of saturation is the underground depth atwhich the ground is totally saturated with water. Theupper surface of this zone is called the water table. It

is also the level at whichgroundwater pressure is equal toatmospheric pressure. The water table can fluctuatedepending on the season andweather conditions. When there isan excess of rain or runoff, thewater table may rise considerably.During periods of drought, thewater table may diminish. It’s also important to note thata water table is not a flat line ofwater. The table actually fluctuatesdepending on the landscape andhuman modification ofsubterranean topography. Thewater table may be shallow insome areas and deep in others. Insome cases, people may live inareas with a “high water table.”A high water table may contributeto leaks in basements and crawlspaces. That’s because hydrostaticpressure, or the pressure of thegroundwater pressing up againstthe home foundation, can causethe water to find weak points andother areas of entry. In theseinstances, a method of keepingthe water from entering the homemay need to be investigated.

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!22

It’s becoming more and morenoticeable. It’s actually starting todrive me crazy! There are still a fewweeks left before the April 30Personal Income Tax deadline and I’llstill complete hundreds of tax returnsbefore then. That is not what isdriving me crazy. I normally review the 2010 IncomeTax Summary with my clients oncetheir taxes are completed. I reviewtheir total, net and taxable incomes(sometimes they are different forvarious reasons). I review the non-refundable tax credits they areclaiming. Then I get to the part that isdriving me really batty. “Here is the amount of your federaltax payable and here is the amount ofyour Province of Manitoba taxpayable”. Then I pause. Now here iswhere I’ve started to hesitate moreand more. And this is what is driving me crazy.I point out again how much their

My Province of ManitobaIncome Tax Crusade

provincial tax payable is. And recentlyI’ve started to point out that about 10years ago this figure used to be about60 percent of what the federal taxpayable used to be. Now it’sanywhere from 80 to 120 percent! Yes, I have actually seen many taxreturns where the provincial taxpayable is actually HIGHER than thefederal tax! How can that be?? Well, the Province of Manitobastopped increasing the tax bracketsused for calculating income taxes andfor calculating various non-refundablecredits. The Feds and the Provincesused to have the brackets indexed toinflation so that all the bracketsincreased a little bit each year. About 10 years ago the Province ofManitoba decided to stop increasingits brackets with inflation. It realizedit could get more tax revenue each yearif it didn’t. (You earn a bit moreincome each year, you don’t pay anymore federal taxes, but you sure dopay more provincial taxes!) Those with lower incomes, thosewith children, and seniors have beenaffected the most. Those with highincomes and not many credits to claimhave been affected the least. Do I have your attention now?!? If you have already completed your

taxes (by yourself, using software, orusing a tax preparer or tax professionallike myself) have a look at your taxsummary or page four of the T1General or look at your Notice ofAssessment if you have alreadyreceived it. Look at how much yourFederal Tax Payable is; and look athow much your Provincial Taxpayable is! I bet if you take your provincial taxpayable and divide it into your federaltax payable, it is way more than 60percent! If you still have some past taxreturns (you should be keeping themfor 6 years), have a look at those fromseveral years ago. I bet the provincialtaxes payable were a much lowerpercentage of federal taxes than theyare today! For the past ten years the Provinceof Manitoba has left their tax bracketsand the amount of the tax credits thesame almost every year. The federalamounts have been indexed toinflation. Here’s an example: the basic federalcredit for 2010 is at $10,382; the sameManitoba basic credit is at $8,134(about 78 percent). Back in 2003, thefederal amount was $7,756 and theprovincial amount was $7,634 (about98 percent of the federal amount). So say you had taxable income of$10,382; you would pay absolutelyno federal income tax, but you wouldbe paying some Provincial Taxes! Somuch for our provincial government’sconcern about those with lowincomes! If they were reallyconcerned, don’t you think they’d dosomething about this?? The Age Credit in 2003 was $2,016for the feds and $1,890 for theprovince (or 94 percent). Today theAge Credit is $6,446 for the feds and$3,728 for the province (now only 58percent)! A senior (65+) today could earnalmost $17,000 and pay no federal tax.

But at $12,000, that same seniorwould be paying Provincial taxes!Does that seem fair to you?? And the Government does not haveto announce anything, send out a newsrelease, or even vote on anything tokeep their brackets the same. So that’swhy no one knows about it or noticesit. I’ve written about this before, butmaybe I can get your attention in themidst of “tax season”. If you have already completed yourtaxes, have a look at your taxespayable and see what I’m upset about. And what can we do about it? Well,you can write to your MLA and ourPremier and our Finance Minister! Or you can drop by my office andsign my petition. I already have many

signatures, but would love to havehundreds more. There are some otherpetitions going around the provincetoo. One of my tax clients brought someup to the Anola area to place in somepublic places. I had one at the SteAnne Curling Club during the season.If you are there for their Annual SudsSpud & Steak Night on Friday April29, I’ll make sure a petition is theretoo! Maybe with hundreds of voices wecan get our Provincial Government tostart increasing their brackets andindexing them to inflation so we aren’tpaying more and more taxes each yearwithout even knowing about it. Theyneed to be held accountable!

Anni Markmann is a tax professional and an independent financial advisorworking, living, and volunteering in our community. Contact Anni atannimarkmann@mts.net or 422-6631 or 107 Central Ave in Ste Anne.

April 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 23

Despite the cold February therewere 12 percent more listings thanlast year and sales were up 10 percentfrom last year at this same time. Theinventory of houses on the marketrose 16 percent from last year’sinventory. This meant more housesto choose from for buyers, thesecond highest inventory of resalehomes in the past 5 years. You would think that with more

Spring Rush is Hereinventory house prices woulddecline, however just the oppositehas taken place. The dollar volumefor the month is also up 14 percentfrom last year at $171 million – andlast February was a record Februaryfor dollar volume. One factor that isat work here is the 0.8 percentvacancy rate in rentals which in turndrives up housing prices and makesthe housing less affordable. When

there’s less opportunity to rent,people look for options to buy. Thatmeans that there are more peoplelooking for a particular home andoften they find themselves in abidding war. If you are a builder or an investormaybe you should look at buyingor building rental properties.Shortage of rentals also drives uprental prices. Another avenue is tobuild some homes for sale on thecurrent market, maybe pre-sell themand get your buyers to pay ininstallments. This is actually a goodthing for buyers because they onlypay land transfer tax on the lot asopposed to the home as well. Thereis always an opportunity if you lookfor it. Note: This is our opinion. Alwaystake a longer time period, study thetrends and ask questions beforeinvesting your hard earned cash.For more info in this housingshortage you can see a study doneon this matter, “Manitoba’s Rental

Housing Shortage” onwww.winnipegrealtors.ca under“Position Papers”. The following statistics are fromFebruary 2011 sales. 20 percent of all residentialdetached sales were under $150,000,

22 percent between $150,000-$199,999, 20 percent between$200,000-$249,999, 16 percentbetween $250,000-$299,999, 8percent $300,000-$349,999, 7 percentbetween $350,000-$399,999, 2percent $400,000 and up.

Travis Olifirowich (371-7223) and Eileen Lewis (371-0255) are withPrudential Riverbend Realty. For information on this article feel freeto contact them.

April 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!24

By Marianne Curtis

Starting and running a business in the Whitemouth Reynolds Planning District justbecame easier, thanks to BizPaL, an online business permit and licence service thatsaves time spent on paperwork and helps entrepreneurs start up faster. David Turchyn, Chair of the Whitemouth Reynolds Planning District, welcomed thelaunch of BizPaL in the rural municipalities of Whitemouth and Reynolds. “BizPaL is a tremendous partnership involving all levels of government, and we arevery pleased to have it available to our residents,” said Turchyn. “Current and futurebusiness owners will benefit from this service and in turn create more opportunities inthe area.” The RM of Reynolds joined the project back in 2008 after having heard of the programand they recently completed the task of entering the applicable info into its website. BizPal is an online, one-stop service for entrepreneurs that simplifies the process offinding information on business permits and licenses from all levels of government. Itprovides entrepreneurs with simplified access to information on the permits and licencesthey need to establish and run their businesses. There are now over 40 municipalities in Manitoba on board, with more announcementsexpected in the near future.

Entrepreneurs in the RM of De Salaberry and area have access to the Manitoba BusinessGateway thanks to a recent opening at the Bilingual Service Centre. Marcel Mulaire, president of the St. Pierre Chamber of Commerce, is pleased with theopening. “As president of the St. Pierre Chamber of Commerce and owner of a small business, I amvery encouraged to see a business gateway being set up here providing additional access toprograms, services and information in both French and English to support entrepreneursand businesses in the Red River Region,” said Mulaire. The Manitoba Business Gateway provides single-window access and referrals to a widerange of business and employment information and services. These include business starts,permits and licences, financial programs, business planning, recruiting, training and managingemployees, business expansion and growth, exporting and more. The Manitoba Business Gateway will also provide businesses with improved access to theprovince’s growing list of online services including the Manitoba Business Portal, ManitobaBizPaL, Online Name Reservation and TAXcess.

St. Labre 200 is a 2 day go-kart building and racing competition where teams have 24 hoursto build their own go-kart with a specific list of material. Every team hopes to have their go-kart be fast and tough enough to endure the grueling 200 laps (50 miles). This dirt track isrough and very unforgiving on the motorized creations. Drivers push their vehicles to thelimit in hopes of earning the prestigious St. Labre 200 trophy. Spectators are invited to visit and cheer on their favorite team during the build off and raceall while enjoying the many side activities and live bands during the weekend of July 16th and17th. St. Labre 200, a nonprofit organization, was created by local individuals and is run byvolunteers who want to give back to their community. Currently in its third year, St. Labre 200has been able to donate much of its proceeds to organizations in need of funds, helping thelocal community be a better place. This year St. Labre 200 would like to hear from organizationsin the southeastern Manitoba. Please tell us why you feel your organization would benefitfrom proceeds raised by this rapidly growing event. Whether it be fundraising for medicalresearch, community development and well being or simply to help those in need, St. Labre200 wants to hear from you! In your letter please include, organization name, a short description of your organization,why you think your organization could benefit from the moneys raised, how this moneywould be used and contact person with address, email or telephone number. Please send to:St. Labre 200, P.O. Box 192, St. Labre, MB R0A 2NO or email: contactus@stlabre200.comuf.com.Entry deadline is May 31st. Check them out online at www.stlabre200.comuf.com.

Saturday, April 2 was the day picked by the Middlebro Parks and Recreation group as theday to have a fundraising Pancake Breakfast, and it turned out to be a very good day indeed.Blue sky, nice temperatures and a great turnout helped to make the day a success. Many people came out to enjoy the Pancake, egg and sausage breakfast that was servedup by local volunteers. There was also a 50/50 draw and a silent auction held while breakfastwas being served. There were games for the children to enjoy, and face painting as well. Approximately 160 people came out to support the event. Event organizers said that the event would not have been the success it was, without thehelp and support of the many volunteers that gave their time. Organizers also wish to thankeveryone that came out and enjoyed the food, fun and games. Middlebro Parks and Recreation Organizers hope that this is just the first of many successfulfundraising opportunities which will help with getting a new play structure in the community.One hundred percent of the proceeds derived from the Breakfast event will be used directlyto fund new playground equipment in the town of Middlebro.

The Ste-Anne Hospital Fund is pleased to announce its 2nd Annual Online Auctiontaking place on eBay from April 5th to 15th. The products and services featured at this year’s auction will again serve those interestedin building, remodeling or landscaping. For example, last year’s items included airconditioning units, water softener, fascia and soffit package, bathroom fixtures, cabinetry,lighting packages, concrete, asphalt, prairie stone, excavation and backfill packages,sandblasting, roofing & siding packages just to name a few items. This activity will help the Fund reach its goal of 1.5 million which represents thecommunity contribution to the Ste-Anne Hospital’s development project: a new surgicalsuite and a solarium patients’ lounge dedicated to Doctor Doyle. Please check out our website www.steannehospitalfund.ca/auctions and Q&A sectionto see how you can benefit as a donor as well as a buyer.

Bizpal Launched in Hadashville

Deputy Reeve Gary Gaetz and Peter Bjornson, Minister of Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade, celebrate theofficial unveiling of BizPaL at the RM of Reynolds office.

2nd Annual Online Auction

Business Gateway Opens in St. Pierre

Fundraising Success for MiddlebroParks and Recreation

Two communities in the southeast will have some extra money to spend while planningtheir Canada Day celebrations, thanks to modest federal grants. On March 22 the Federal Government announced that Celebrate Canada funding will begiven to four communities within Provencher, including South Junction and Steinbach. The South Junction Community Club received $825 towards their planned Canada Dayevents. Activities being planned include a flag raising, birthday cake and fireworks. TheCity of Steinbach received $7,000 towards their annual Canada Day celebrations forpromotional materials, fireworks and a birthday cake. Funding was also allotted for festivities in Pinawa and Emerson.

St. Labre 200 Giving Back to the Community!

Canada Day Festivals Get Funding