By Marianne Curtis

A grade 12 student from Shevechencko Schoolin Vita was recently awarded a scholarship fromthe Manitoba Council for Exceptional Children. On February 24, 17-year-old CandaceMaxymowich was awarded the, “Yes I can Award”,which is an academic scholarship from theManitoba Council for Exceptional Children. TheManitoba Council for Exceptional Children is anon-profit organization dedicated to theadvancement of effective practice in educatingstudents with exceptional needs in Manitoba. At a special event in Winnipeg, Maxymowichwas presented a scholarship worth $750.00. The“Yes I Can Award” supports students fromManitoba who are pursuing a career directlyrelated to working with persons withexceptionalities. To be considered she had to writea resume and an essay about her communityinvolvement and what and where she sees herselfin the future. “My volunteer experience has convinced mefurther to follow a career working in the healthcare field,” Maxymowich said. “In the fall I planto attend Brandon University with the goal ofbecoming a Psychiatric Nurse. I would like to workin the Selkirk Mental Health Centre and hope toopen a young wilderness program for youngwomen in emotional distress.” Maxymowich explained that her interest in thefield grew from volunteering at the Vita and DistrictHealth Center and other areas in South EastmanHealth.

Vita Student Wins Award

“Yes I Can” scholarship winner Candace Maxymowich said she is especially gratefulto her mentor Michelle Gawronsky for influencing her life and motivating her to followher dreams. Continued on page 2

Book lovers and collectors alike should mark theircalendars for March 23 to 26 because the BethesdaHealth Care Auxiliary Book sale will be taking place atthe Clearspring Centre in Steinbach. Over the past month volunteers have been sortingthousands of books and other reading materialscollected for resale at the annual auxiliary book sale.Verna Thiessen from the Bethesda Auxiliary said thereare thousands of books, records, tapes, magazines,puzzles, and games priced to be sold. Money raised during the 4-day event is earmarked forspecial purchases that benefit the Bethesda Hospital inSteinbach. This year’s goal is to raise a good portion ofthe $70,000 needed to purchase a gamma probe that willbe used at the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach. Thespecialized equipment is used primarily for sentinellymph node mapping and parathyroid surgery. The Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary started hostingthe annual book sale several years ago and has raisedwell over $100,000 for a variety of medical equipmentneeded in the region. Since 1980, the Bethesda HealthCare Auxiliary has presented nearly $400,000 worth ofequipment to Bethesda Hospital. Cash donations are also being accepted. They can bemailed to the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary at 316 HenryStreet, Steinbach R5G 0P9.

By Marianne Curtis

The RM of La Broquerie is once again on the hunt fora new chief administrator after John Livingston wasrelieved of his duties at the beginning of February. RM of La Broquerie Reeve Claude Lussier confirmedthat his council has terminated a contract that was onlysigned in the fall by the former council. “I can’t comment on why he was dismissed,” Lussierstated. “He has been relieved of his duties and he willbe compensated according to his contract.”

There were some tense moments outside the community of Woodridgeon February 8 when a CN freight train derailed shortly after 6 a.m. A total of nine cars on an eastbound train jumped the track. Sevencars were carrying lumber and the other two were empty. The accident took place in an isolated area and traffic was not affected.There were no injuries. CN crews and investigators were on scene clearing the tracks andlooking for the reason for the derailment. A cause of the accident hasnot been released.

Train DerailsNear

Woodridge

Auxiliary toHost Mid-March

Book Sale

La BroquerieOusts

Administrator

Continued on page 2

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!2

“I enjoy volunteering in the personal care home setting and assistingand entertaining the elderly residents,” she added. While Maxymowich appreciates the award, she said there was onething that made receiving it extra special. “Seeing the pride in my family and friend’s faces meant more to methan receiving this award,” she added. The ambitious teenager sees herself eventually running for municipal,provincial, or federal government office. “I will be attending the Forum for Young Canadians in Ottawa fromFebruary 27th to March 4th where I will have the special privilege ofsitting in both the House of Commons and Senate,” Maxymowichnoted. “I will meet the nation’s leaders, interact with decision-makers,and debate contemporary issues.” In May she will also be participating in the Youth Parliament ofManitoba.

Continued from page 1

Vita Studentcontinued...

Livingston was initially hired by the municipalityas acting administrator in October 2009. InSeptember, a two year contract was signed betweencouncil and the administrator. While the majority of council agreed with thedecision to terminate Livingston, both CouncilorsRon Hamilton and Darrell Unger voted against thedecision. This is not the first time that Livingston has beenterminated without a public explanation. Prior to hisarrival in La Broquerie he worked for the City ofSelkirk for 17 years as director of finance until hisemployment was terminated without a publicexplanation. Meanwhile, the RM of La Broquerie hasdesignated newly hired assistant administratorClaude Moquin as acting administrator until areplacement can be found. Moquin, a formermunicipal councillor, was hired as the new assistantadministrator at the end of December. Until the municipality hires a new administratorthey have also appointed Roger A. Bouvier as amunicipal advisor to council. He will receivecompensation at a rate of $60 per hour plus mileagefor working alongside council until the position isno longer vacant. It would appear that the RM of La Broqueriecouncil is cleaning house in other areas as well. Asof the beginning of January the council laid off thepublic works foreman, two public works employeesand dismissed a third. Since the October electionthe municipality also lost their assistantadministrator and building inspector.

Continued from page 1

La Broqueriecontinued...

Are you one of the lucky young people to name a future working policedog? This is your chance to find out. Canada’s national police force invitesall young people from coast-to-coast-to-coast to name ten Germanshepherd puppies born at the Police Dog Service Training Centre (PDSTC)in Innisfail, Alberta. The deadline for entries is March 7. Contest winnersand prizes will be announced on April 4. Winning names will be chosen by the PDSTC staff. A draw will determinethe winning entry in the event of multiple submissions of the same name.“In 2010, the RCMP Police Dog Service Training Centre (PDSTC), ‘Depot’Division, received over 9,000 individual entries,” said Inspector LawrenceAimoe, the officer-in-charge of the Centre. “This contest provides atremendous opportunity for Canadian children to take part in a policeprogram that saves lives and protects their neighborhood.” Young peopleare encouraged to be original and imaginative in finding names that willserve these puppies well in their career with Canada’s national policeforce. When thinking of names, it is important to keep in mind that theseare working police dogs, not pets. Contest rules are simple:- Contestants can suggest only one name (one entry per person). Thename may be for a male or a female pup.- The name must start with the letter “D”.- The name must have no more than nine letters.- The name must be one or two syllables.- Contestants must live in Canada and be16 years old and under. To enter, contestants must print their name, age, address, telephonenumber and the suggested name for a puppy on a postcard and mail it to:Attn: “Name the Puppy Contest”Police Dog Service Training CentreBox 6120Innisfail, AB T4G 1S8 The RCMP will accept more than one entry per household provided thateach participant submits one name per postcard. Although there can beonly ten winners, names not selected for the contest will be considered forother puppies born during the year. The PDSTC is home to the RCMP national police dog training programand is a proud member of “Depot” Division – the RCMP Academy. As aresult of the Centre’s breeding program there are more than 160 RCMPbreeding program dogs working as police dogs within the force, as well aswithin other partner agencies.

On February 16 at approximately 9:15 a.m. the RCMPin Steinbach responded to a report of a robbery at theUPS store on Brandt Street in Steinbach. At the sceneRCMP determined a male suspect entered the storewearing a balaclava over his face and confronted thelone store clerk, advised him that he had a gun anddemanded that he turn over money. No gun was actuallyseen. Once the male obtained the money from the clerkhe ran out the back door. A police dog attended but wasunsuccessful in locating the suspect. The suspect was described as being around 5 feet, 7inches tall. He had a medium build and was wearing ablack hooded sweatshirt, black pants and black shoes.The suspect may also have a darker complexion. Video surveillance from the area showed the possiblesuspect running from the area. The individual attemptedto run across Loewen Boulevard in Steinbach and wasalmost struck by a passing car. He then crossed thestreet and was seen running north towards Highway12. RCMP in Steinbach are requesting that anyone whomay have observed this person or anyone withknowledge of this robbery to contact the SteinbachRCMP at (204) 326-1234 or to contact Crime Stoppers.

By Marianne Curtis

In a historic vote the Roseau River First Nation hasapproved a multi-million dollar land settlement package. On February 8 a vast majority of the community’sregistered members voted to accept the $80.6 millionsettlement from the federal government in a land disputethat goes back more than 100 years. The money iscompensation for 12 large sections of land that the bandwas pressured to open up to farmers and settlers inwhat is known as the 1903 Surrender.

Armed Robberyin Steinbach

Roseau River Accepts$80.6 Million Settlement

Chief Terrance Nelson is pleased that his band’smembers voted to accept the settlement. “We believe we negotiated a good settlementamount, over $10,000 for every acre that was lost.The leadership is recommending the settlement,”Nelson explained. “The people have spoken and itis a clear mandate.” Included in the agreement is a Per CapitaDistribution of $5,000 to every Tribal member. Upto $13 million is set aside for the Per CapitaDistribution for projects such as housing andeducation. “While no settlement is perfect and no truststructure is acceptable to everyone, we haveachieved an overwhelming positive vote,” addedNelson. Out of 1,444 eligible voters – 929 votersparticipated in the referendum. However, the Band may now have to wait anotheryear before they will see any payout on theagreement after allegations have surfaced. Indian and Northern Affairs Canada have receivedan objection from a band member over the votingprocess. The objection alleges that band memberswere forced to vote on the same day as a settlementinformation session was held and that voters werepaid $50 to cast their ballots. The man filing thecomplaint alleges that could be construed as vote-buying. At the time of the vote band officials said the $50was offered to cover transportation costs.

“While no settlement isperfect and no trust structure

is acceptable to everyone,we have achieved an

overwhelming positive vote.”

RCMP “NameThe Puppy

Contest” 2011

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 3

By Marianne Curtis

Niverville raised race car driverDavid Richert has signed with TeamTorino Motorsport in Italy for the2011 race season. Richert will contestseveral events in the very quickFormula Renault race car at some ofthe most prestigious race tracks inthe world, including races at Imolaand Monza. “I am very excited to climb backinto a single-seater race car and tobe able to do that in Italy is going tobe a dream come true,” said Richert.“This is a great opportunity toadvance my racing career and I amlooking forward to the challenge.” Marco Braghero, Team Managerof Team Torino Motorsport, islooking forward to working withRichert. “He is a successful Canadian racecar driver with a lot of experienceand we are honored to have him,”stated Braghero. Twenty-eight year old Richert saidthat this achievement places himexactly where he needs to be if hewants to continue his dream. “A lot of young talented driverswho have come out of this categoryhave achieved a higher level ofracing – this is exactly where I needto be right now,” he adds. Two years ago, Richert ended atwo year racing career as aVolkswagen Jetta TDI Cup race cardriver, which gave him valuableexperience. In his second year hefinished the season in 15th place

Richert Takes on Italy

based on overall points. “It helped me really build theground floor of my racing career – Ireally learned the business side ofthe sport and the better you are at it,then the further you get in yourcareer,” Richert explained. “You notonly have to be good on the trackbut you have to be the business endof it.”

Richert will take part in several testdays in April prior to his first 2 racesat the Autodromo InternazionaleEnzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola at thebeginning of May. The circuit hashosted many years of Formula 1World Championship events andwas the location of a weekend oftragic events in 1994 which took the

life of F1 legend Ayrton Senna. The Formula Renault 2.0 has beenthe race car of choice for many oftoday’s top drivers in launching theircareers. The race car is capable ofaccelerating from 0 to 160 km/h in4.85 seconds and braking from 200km/h to a stop in 4.6 seconds.

By Marianne Curtis

It has been a quiet few months inSte. Genevieve but spring floodforecasts have started to raise alarmbells for area residents, many stillwaiting for answers after last year’sflooding. Last year, several residents fromthe Ste. Genevieve area startedasking the RM of Tache for help butlittle was actually achieved. CarmenAllard, spokesperson for the group,said that residents are hoping thatthis spring will be different. “We are back in full swing in ourefforts with regards to the waterissues in our area,” stated Allard.“With the recent provincial forecastof massive flooding in the spring weare ramping up and are back on trackputting pressure on the RM andprovincial officials to get the leadout.” Issues that have been raised bythe group include insufficientdrainage and wrong sized culverts.Beavers and plugged ditches, inaddition to two soil companiesallegedly pumping water out frombehind their dikes, are also causingproblems. She added that lastsummer, after heavy rains, a few ofthe roads remained impassable forseveral weeks. “Due to extensive road closuresour emergency vehicles have tomake up to a 9 mile detour to reachproperties that are less than a mileaway from the fire hall, which in turncould cost a resident their home or,worse yet, a loved one,” stressedAllard. “This is not acceptable.” Despite calling meetings, talkingto Cooks Creek ConservationDistrict, the municipality and severalgovernment officials, the residentsin Ste. Genevieve remain frustrated.

Twenty-eight year old race car driver David Richert from Niverville will be steering one of these Team Torino Formula 1 cars during theupcoming race season in Italy.

Ron Lemieux, MLA for La Verendrye and Minister of Local Government, is encouraging area businesses andcommunities to take advantage of Hometown Manitoba, a program that is helping improve rural neighborhoodsacross Manitoba. “We all want to make our neighborhoods stronger and that’s why we created the Hometown Program,” saidLemieux. “Together we’re improving street fronts, parks, day care centres, recreation centres, seniors centersand museums in communities like ours.” Last year, Hometown Manitoba helped support several projects in La Verendrye including:- Clubhouse improvements at Richer Community Club,- Support for painting the Giroux UFM Co-op Society,- Improvements to the façade of church operated by Friends of Prayer Inc. The application deadline for the Hometown Manitoba Program is March 15. To learn more, download the Hometown Manitoba Program Guide at www.manitoba.ca/agriculture/ri.

Flood ForecastConcerns

Ste. GenevieveResidents

MLA urgescommunities applyfor support beforeMarch 15 deadline

Hometown Manitoba Improves Quality of Life in La Verendrye

March 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

Dan Guetre, Managing EditorOne One Consultants Inc., Publisher

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

Production/Design: Dan Guetre, Myriam Dyck,Linda Bennett and Wilma Priebe

Advertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre

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

Fax: (204) 422-9768Email: sales@dawsontrail.ca

Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.

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

Canada Post AgreementNumber 42079020

I am very pleased to confirm that there is currently a public tender out forthe Ste. Anne Hospital expansion. This will be awarded this spring so thatconstruction can be completed this summer. Since 1999, we have invested to build, renovate and modernize over 100health facilities around the province and bring services closer to home. Thehospital expansion in Ste. Anne is part of that plan and I was pleased to learnthat in late January, the South Eastman RHA issued the tender for this important project to find a construction firm to buildthe hospital expansion. The expanded operating room capacity will be important not only to residents in Ste. Anne, butalso in surrounding communities as this helps to solidify Ste. Anne Hospital as a regional surgical center. The NDP government has a long commitment to health. This includes a commitment to everyone in Manitoba havingaccess to a family doctor by 2015. For Manitobans without a family doctor, this will help them get one. For families thatalready have a family doctor, this will help patients get in to see their doctor faster, when they need to. More family doctors are clearly needed, but Manitobans also know that there are often times they don’t need to see afamily doctor. That’s why nurse practitioners, nurses and other providers are vital to our plan. We also believe that all Manitobans deserve access to high-quality health care close to home, which means governmentmust continue to recruit doctors to rural areas. According to the College of Physicians and Surgeons, there are 111 moredoctors in rural Manitoba than in 1999 (609 today, up from 498 in 1999). This has been supported with increasing medical school from 70 to 110 spaces, working with the U of M to adjustadmission guidelines to medical school to increase rural recruitment, and developing rural recruitment and retention grantsfor doctors. As part of our plan to provide all Manitobans that want one with a family doctor by 2015, we announced in late 2010that starting this Sept, the province will fully cover the costs of medical school for students that agree to work for up to2.5 years in underserviced communities, mostly in rural and northern areas.$16 million long term care investment Manitoba families will also benefit from enhanced access to home-care services, more affordable supportive-housingoptions and an expansion of personal-care home (PCH) beds under a renewed long-term care plan. The provincial plan includes a two-year, $16-million investment that will provide:- more home-care supports for those older adults that need support to help them live at home longer; - an innovative new rehabilitation program to help seniors regain and maintain their independence following surgery orinjury, and also delay or prevent untimely or inappropriate placement in a personal-care home; and- a new income-protection benefit of up to $295 per month to make supportive housing an affordable alternative to PCHplacement for low-income seniors. This builds on Manitoba’s investments in long-term care since 1999 that have resulted in:- more than 400 additional personal-care home beds;- over 500 new supportive housing units;- expanded home-care services for thousands more seniors;- a caregiver tax credit of $1,020 for caregivers of home-care clients;- new supports for approximately 3,500 seniors in group living including assistance with transportation and dailyactivities;- improved quality of care in PCHs with more than 500 new staff hired since 2007;- quality standards legislated in 2005; and- the creation of the Protection of Persons in Care Office in 2001. As always, I appreciate hearing your comments and thoughts on these and other provincial initiatives. I encourage youto contact me by e-mail (rlemieuxmla@mts.net), by phone (878-4644), or by mail at 101-1309 Dawson Road, Box 517,Lorette, MB R0A 0Y0 and together we can continue to move La Verendrye and Manitoba forward.

It looks more and more that thebattle plan for the next election willbe fought partly on corporate taxcuts. Are you for those cuts oragainst them? The Federalcorporate tax rate is now at 18percent. The theory goes, cut therates and jobs will grow. Soundsgood, but in fact it’s a crock. Wehave exceeded and passed thatbang for that buck. Let us expose awee bit of corporate indifference tothe economy. In 1981 the corporatetax rate was a whopping 36 percentcreating 11.5 percent of newinvestment in the economy fromtheir profits. In 1990 the investedpercentage was down to 10.8percent with the tax at 28 percent.The tax is now 10 points less butthe reinvestments have not beenimproving and corporate taxescollected are less by billions ofdollars. Sorry for this run of dryfigures but thanks for staying withme. Needless to say, Canadiancorporations are very profitableand are being bought and sold likeMonopoly properties. Profits arethe name of the game. If jobs

It Should Be the “Time of the Drones”happen to be created it’s only anaccidental consequence and, moreoften than not, management jobsincrease only in the new off shoreheadquarters with manufacturingjobs increasing in a completelydifferent off shore location. Thenew world economy is mobile andvery profitable but any and alllocal economies are at their mercy.They have zilch loyalty to theirroots which are us. I am notagainst profits, providing theybenefit all fairly. I do not suggest that corporatetaxes be raised but they do notdeserve another cut because we,the individual taxpayers, arefooting a larger and larger part ofthe tax bill. We pay for health,welfare, infrastructure, aid andsocial security, etc., and, as itturns out, an exorbitantly largeamount of taxes go toward theirentitlements, towards accumulatedcorporate profits and sharedividends, and these, by andlarge, do not necessarily stay inCanada. The Canadiangovernment is starting to make mefeel like a sucker and I am not

amused. Many of us come from ageneration that had a Puritanvirtue outlook towards work.Rewards we knew, were down theroad, but we were productive. Wehave seen the change towardsthe consumerism economy. Nowthe order of the day must beinstant gratification which, ofcourse, can only survive withcash or debt. We have seen whatdebt and speculation has done toour economy. The destructionhas not been pretty. To continuesolely down the consumerismroad does not seem prudent. Itwould be equivalent to a youngcouple expressing their undyinglove for each other with tattoos.Sexy now, but 40 years passesoh too quickly, and “I Love

Mary” in a large heart shape sagsto a severely expanded anddistended hairy mid-riff, while“George forever” is now perched ,oh heaven forbid, at the swell ofperky breast then one daydisappears to 3 degrees south ofher belly button. This disasterprompting George and Mary toparticipate in the economy byhaving their tattoos removed andchanging their names to Josephineand Effraim. But, if the economy needsstimulation I could suggest a taxcut to us, the workers and self-employed that now make up thevast majority of the workforce andthe economy, and if we have aprofit to spend it stays in thecommunity. I propose a tax cutwith a twist. Your first 40 hours aweek we carry on as usual and payfor our obligations to Canada, thatincludes grinning and bearing onthe portion we pay in the collectivepot while large corporations duckthe issue and think of this as theirfeudal rights. But after the 40hours I would like overtime freeand clear, no deductions. Yah, Ican hear all the naysayers now.The aggressive workers willmonopolize all the jobs. That’s thepoint, shock troops in theeconomy. This tax free incomewould be quickly reinvested orspent, would decrease the amountof borrowed money in the marketand again increase the availablepool of money to invest. Creating,in a short time, a shortage of laborand exposing the need for cajoling,

training and incentives to inducemarginal workers to join in the fun.Not much would change in thatsector. With a little imagination thegovernment could induce us topool our extra tax free cash andinvest into desired areas such asinfrastructure, which would returnthem about $1.50 for each of ourcollective $1.00 invested. Anybodyever hear of toll roads and bridges?Well, we wouldn’t sell you thebridge but we most certainly wantyou to use it. Do you think theycould get that from another twopercent reduction in the corporatetax rate? You can rest assured thatthey would only get donations totheir political coffers while we willhave to make up the slack and getzip. Many people already work morethan 40 hours a week: owners ofsmall businesses, lawyers,accountants, truckers, doctors,farmers and quality workers thattheir bosses find indispensible(clearing snow comes to mind). Thislist goes on and on. But theargument is, who could light asustained fire in the economy, largecorporations or us who live, work,play and take all the necessary risksto build a community? We know bythe statistics that the choice ofgovernment to favor largecorporations has becomeineffective, so then give us, thedrones, a crack at it. Is there apolitical party out there willing togive us a hand? Or do we just standhere and say, “Please sir can I haveanother crumb?”

Ste. Anne Hospital Expansion

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 5

Many residents in the southeast part of the provinceincluding the La Verendrye area will be paying a directcost for the NDP government’s decision to put thenew Bi-Pole III transmission line through the region.That’s because for many in the region, thetransmission towers are scheduled to go right overtheir farmland and near their homes. This would be a hard enough decision to take underideal circumstances, but this decision is far from ideal.Almost every group that has examined this decision,from engineers to taxpayer protection organizationsto Manitoba Hydro itself has said the line should becoming from northern Manitoba down the east sideof Lake Winnipeg to the converter station nearWinnipeg. The fact that the NDP have mandated that the lineshould go across the north, down the far westernpart of the province near Saskatchewan, through theflood prone Red River Valley and throughsoutheastern Manitoba at a cost of billions more thanthe eastern route makes it even more frustrating tolocal landowners. They know, as do most Manitobans,that the NDP route makes no sense. But at what point will even the NDP admit thatenough is enough when it comes to the added costof their west side route? Internal documents fromleaked from Manitoba Hydro recently showed thatthe cost of the west side Bi-Pole III transmission linedhad ballooned from an estimated $2.2 billion to a costcloser to $4.1 billion. And that’s years beforeconstruction is even scheduled to begin. And if you are wondering who is going to pay forthis foolish decision the answer is every Manitoban.

As a Member of Parliament from a predominantly rural riding it is alwayswelcome news when I see investments that will directly improve the lives ofthose who choose to live outside of major cities. While healthcare is the purview of the provinces, there are still areaswhere the federal government can make a positive impact. One of theseareas, the shortage of doctors in rural Canada, was the target of Health

Minister Aglukkaq recently. As countless Canadians alreadyknow, access to family doctorsremains a challenge in many partsof the country. If you live far from acity, getting to and from a doctor’soffice could mean hours of driving.It is a problem that won’t be solvedovernight. On February 23, Minister

Aglukkaq pledged to fund 100 new medical residency positions for ruraldoctors. The funding will result in more family practices springing up onmain streets in rural Canada. That’s $40 million over six years for doctorswho agree to practice for two years in a rural or remote location. Opposition parties have already been critical of the creation of the newresidency positions, even though the Canadian Medical Association haslong called for a push for more doctors. Through initiatives such as this, ourConservative Government is once again proving that we are committed tostanding up for rural Canada. More still needs to be done to get to the point where we as a countrywould like to be regarding healthcare, but this is a concrete step forwardand I am thrilled to see our government focus on the needs of ruralManitobans. You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at (204) 326-9889or in Lac du Bonnet at (204) 345-9762. You may write my office at 8 - 227Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, by fax at (204) 346-9874 or by e-mail attoewsv1@parl.gc.ca.

Recently I’ve had the opportunity to go ice fishing. I’ve loved summerfishing for many years but, despite living in Manitoba all my life, I’ve nevergone fishing in the winter. Riding with some of my friends (they had never ice fished before either)we drove out to St. Malo lake and met up with some of my friends’ relatives(they had ice fished plenty). When we arrived at the lake it was an interesting experience for me to havethe vehicle that I’m riding in to not stop at the shore but continue drivingonto the frozen water. Imagining the ice cracking beneath the weight of thevehicle, it would only be moments before the thinly frozen water would giveway and we would begin our descent into the depths of the lake. Of course,the ice did not crack and we did not break through, much to my delight. Climbing out of the vehicle, we walked over to what would be our spot forthe afternoon. With a gas-powered auger, our holes were quickly andeffortlessly drilled and our lines were soon in the water. Then began themost important part of ice fishing, the learning of the patience. With nobites happening for some time, it doesn’t take long to become discouraged,especially when you begin to feel some of your unnameable body partsbeginning to freeze. Walking around helped to stay warm and there were acouple of pop-up shelters to warm-up in but with a fish about to bite my lureat any moment, I didn’t want to take the chance on missing it. Soon ithappened, a fish was on the line! Sadly, it wasn’t mine. I watched as the man ran over and pulled out a smallnorthern pike. Looking back at my setup I knew it would only be a matter oftime before a fish would hit it. A hour or so later, a flag on a tip-up line holder sprang into the air and offraced the owner of that setup. Having nothing better to do, I ran over (okay,it was more of a walk than a run) and watched as another northern pike waspulled through the hole in the ice, this one being a little bigger. As the day wore on and the sun played hide-and-seek in the clouds, thetemperature dropped and so did my hopes of catching anything. Beforelong, it was time to pack up and head for home. Consoling myself that thiswas merely a learning experience (and yes, thanks to Josh I did learn quite abit) I made plans to better equip myself and to someday soon head back outonto the hardwater. Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.

Over the past few days the newshas been abuzz with outrage overcomments made by Winnipeg judgeRobert Dewar when he sentenced aforty year old man for raping a 26year old woman. What has upset people fromacross Canada were comments madeby the judge that “sex was in theair” because the victim was drunk,had been flirting with her attackerand when they were finally alone,he raped her. The judge suggestedthat her clothes and behavior gavethe accused the wrong impressionthus placing some of theresponsibility of the victim.Attitudes like this are disgustingespecially coming from someone thatis the court system. As a result of this incident, rapevictims from across the country arecringing – including myself. I of allpeople realize that things can betaken the wrong way and veryquickly. About twenty-five yearsago, I was sexually assaulted whileattending one of the high schoolsin the region. I was raped, in thesecond floor bathroom, in the

When Will Enough BeEnough?

Manitoba Hydro is currently asking for a rateincrease and there will be many more rateincreases in the future to pay for the decisionby the NDP to force the line through the westside of Lake Winnipeg and then throughsoutheastern Manitoba. So will the NDP decide that enough is enoughand the cost of this poor decision is simplytoo high? Or are they willing to force any coston Manitobans to not admit they have madea mistake? It’s a question residents should beasking NDP members of the Legislature everychance they get. Because in the end, everyoneof us, regardless of income or where we live,will be paying for the NDP decision to forcethe Bi-Pole III line down the west side foryears to come if it isn’t changed. If you want more information or want to seethe proposed route of the line, visitwww.bipoleiiicoalition.ca I appreciate your comments and concerns.If you have any comments on these or otherissues, you can contact me by writing, #3 –227 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7,by phone at (204) 326-5763, by fax at (204)346-9913, by e-mail atkelvin.goertzen@leg.gov.mb.ca or by visitingmy website at www.kelvingoertzen.com.I look forward to hearing from you.

Support forRural Manitoba

By Marianne Curtis

Through the Looking Glass

No means NO!school – during exam week. Was itmy clothes? I was wearing a longdress and a turtleneck. Was it mybehavior? I was shy and did nothave any contact with boys otherthan in school and had never had aboyfriend. When the principal found out, Iwas suspended from school whilethe boy remained in classes. Wordcirculated among the students thatI was “easy” because “rape” wasnever brought up. I became a targetfor every oversexed teenage boy inthat school until I eventually gotexpelled after being caught midmolestation by a grade 12 boy (I wasin grade 10). He graduated and myschooling was done. Because no one stepped in and letme know I had rights and supportedme at the time, these incidents havecome to play in my adult life. It taughtme that I had no value, that my wordhad no meaning. Thankfully yearslater, I received the help I neededand I can now talk about thiswithout hating or blaming myself. As a mother, I have raised threedaughters and a son. I’ve been

teaching them the importance ofrespect and the meaning of “Nomeans No”. It has let me down inthe past and yet in my optimism Ibelieve they are still true. Yet wehave a judge, seeminglyreinforcing the long standing“truth” that if we as women dressprovocatively, smile too broadly orare in any way shape or formsexual, that we lose our rights tochange our minds. Everyone hashad a moment they’ve beencaught up in a moment andsuddenly sanity kicks in – do wenot have the right to walk away? It is attitudes like Dewar that willkeep victims trapped in their ownprivate hell instead of seeking thehelp, support and justice that weall deserve. Without justice we cannot heal and without healing, wecan not live.

IceFishing

RCMP St. Pierre Jolys Detachment is seeking the public’sassistance with a suspicious fire which occurred onFebruary 9 at 12:25 a.m. in Lorette. A backhoe parked at 15St. Amant caught fire resulting in over $50,000 in damage. RCMP are also seeking the public’s assistance in a Breakand Enter to a residence, under construction at the samelocation two days prior. Sometime overnight on February7th, culprits entered the residence and stole numerouspower tools from the residence. If you have information about these incidents pleasecontact the RCMP St. Pierre Jolys Detachment at (204)433-7433 or if you wish to remain anonymous, call ManitobaCrime Stoppers toll free at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

RCMP Seek Public’sAssistance in

Suspicious Fire andBreak In

Advertisein the

Dispatch

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!6

Steinbach 55 Plus offers programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities, striving to promotehealthy and active living for older adults of the southeast region. We invite you to come and pay us a visitand consider participating in some of our programs. For more information call the center 320-4600.

Special events coming up in March 2011Life Is All about Change: Monday, March 14, 1:30 p.m. A healthy living workshop, learn how to embrace life’sever changing circumstances: Retirement, separation, divorce, loss of a loved one, moves to a new home andthe many other obstacles that face us every day. Speaker is Maggie Magnusson. Call the center to register.Mature Drivers Workshop: Monday, March 21, 1-4 pm. Safety Service Manitoba in partnership with ManitobaPublic Insurance is offering a workshop to experienced drivers who wish to brush up on their skills toenhance their driving performance. This workshop is being offered at no cost to you. All mature driverswelcome. The Mature Driver Workshop will teach you defensive driving techniques, show you how toenhance your driving skills, update your knowledge of current traffic laws and show you how to compensatefor changes that occur in hearing, vision, flexibility and reaction time. Please note there is no testing involvedand this workshop will not affect your drivers licence in any way. Call 320-4600 to register (15 people requiredfor the workshop to run)Country Dance Lessons: Tuesday, March 22 - May 17. Cost per couple: $84 member, $96 non-member.Warroad Casino Bus Trip: Thursday, March 24, 9:30 am - 6:30 pm. $30 member, $35 non member. Receive $20U.S. Deadline is March 17.Old Time Country Dance: Friday, March 25, 8 pm - 12 midnight with live band, By Request. Tickets inadvance: $8 member, $10 non member, $12 at the door for all. Light lunch will be served.

Monthly ProgramsSingle Ladies’ Night Out: The first Friday of the month at 5 p.m. Enjoy supper out at a local restaurant. Callthe centre for place to meet.Foot Care: The first and third Tuesday of the month from 9-3 p.m. Run by a professional foot care nurse. Cost:$25. Bring your own towel. Call centre to book an appointment.Pot Luck Supper: The second Thursday of every month at 6 pm. Main dish and beverages are provided.Cost: $5 per person. Bring along a casserole, salad or desert. Call centre to reserve your seat. Marchentertainment is Steinbach 55 Plus Old Time Band and the meat is chicken.Birthday Party: The first Wednesday of the month. All members with a birthday are invited for complimentarycake and coffee. Guests are asked to pay $2. Entertainment provided.Perogy Bee: The first Monday of every month.Beltone Hearing: The third Friday of each month. Call 1-800-661-2653 for appointment.Brain Injury Support Group: The last Monday of the month. 7 pm - 9 pm.

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

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

Tuesday 8:30 am - 3:00 pm Adult Day ProgramWednesday 9:30 am - 10:30 am Fitness Class

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

Thursday 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Bridge and WhistFriday 8:30 am - 3:00 pm Adult Day Program Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $5.50. Call 320-4605 by 9 am to reserve your meal forthat day. Purchase your meal ticket at the receptionist desk before noon. Monthly menus are available at theoffice or in the newsletter. Bring a friend. Billiards: Monday to Friday 1-4 pm Computer Lab: Monday to Friday 9 am - 12 pm & 1 pm - 4 pm. Cost $1. There are lessons with Alex Cuppleson Mondays from 9 am - 12 pm. Call the centre for more information. Volunteer Opportunities include perogy making, decorating and setting tables, birthday party hosts, foodpreparation and serving, clean up, greeters, receptionists, etc. We welcome new volunteers. Membership at Steinbach 55 Plus is only $20 per year. Memberships are due in January of each year.Membership is for those 55 years of age and older. Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice inbusiness meetings, voting rights, and eligibility to serve on the board or committees. For more information on our programs, activities or volunteer opportunities, drop by the Centre Monday toFriday from 9 am to 4 pm or call 320-4600 or go to www.steinbach55plus.com.

By Marianne Curtis

The Board of South Eastman Health is currently looking for a new chiefexecutive officer after the recent resignation of Monique VielfaureMackenzie. For the past six years Vielfaure Mackenzie has been chief executiveofficer for South Eastman Health. Prior to the promotion she served as theVice President of Corporate Services and Planning for the RHA for sixyears. Upon leaving South Eastman Health, Vielfaure Mackenzie will be steppinginto the position of Executive Director with the Regional Health Authoritiesof Manitoba. She will assume that role June 1. “This move will bring new challenges and opportunities,” said VielfaureMackenzie, who admits that she is leaving South Eastman Health withmixed emotions. “It has been a privilege to serve the residents of theregion.” South Eastman Health Chairperson Aurele Boisvert recognized hercommitment to advancing and advocating health care for South Eastmanresidents and has been an inspiration to her staff. “Although I am fully supportive of Monique’s decision to embark on anew career path, I am saddened about the significant loss to ourorganization,” stated Boisvert. “We will sincerely miss her leadership andwill remember her contributions.” Last month Boisvert announced that he will be stepping down from hisposition as board chairperson at the end of March. He was first appointedto the board by Manitoba Health back in 2003 and appointed chairpersona year later. His term with the board expires March 31.

Health AuthorityLoses Chief Executive

South Eastman Health Chief Executive Officer Monique Vielfaure Mackenzie has steppeddown as the head of the regional health authority after six years.

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 7

13th Annual SoutheastOpen Judged Art Exhibit

You are invited! The biggest event of our Gallery Season – nearly 80 southeast artists! The public is invited to attend the 13th Annual Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibitceremonies: Adult Exhibit Opening: Thursday, March 3 at 7 p.m. Juvenile Exhibit Opening:Friday, March 4 at 7 p.m. No admission.

New! Spring Break Camps Limited Spaces, register by March 22. Three awesome days, March 30 to April 1.Music, Dance, Theatre & Art. Ages: 5-12yrs; 9-4 p.m. daily; $78 per camper. Enjoy indoorrecreation, dance, drama, music & visual arts.

New! Urban Arts ’11 Program Urban Arts ’11 – TEENS: Mar 31 – Apr 1 Ages 13 -17 Funky & Creative Youth MuralProject – A program for our youth to learn urban arts and create a mural for SAC inpartnership with Graffiti Art Gallery from Winnipeg – FREE PROGRAM –\Minimum 15students; register by March 15th

Vancouver Chamber Choir – Jon Washburn, Conductor-Thursday, March 3 at 7:30 pm Grace Mennonite Church Guest Artists: SRSS ChamberChoirCanada’s outstanding professional vocal ensemble, the Vancouver Chamber Choir andconductor Jon Washburn have performed across the country and internationally sincethe choir’s formation in 1971.

Belly Dance – for your CORE area!You can still Sign Up – Beginners welcomed!- Saturday classes with Ildiko Gyarmati. A great workout and focus upon your body’score muscles.- Tuesday classes: Adults and Youth Belly Dance (ages 12-15) with Jessica Thurston.This class offers physical wellness and encourages self-confidence!

Art Classes for ages 2-16 yrs. Sign up now- Play Date With Art: Ages 2-4 (plus parent), 10:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Parent & child willenjoy a favorite story while creating a related craft.- Art Adventures: Ages 5-7, 5:45 p.m.-6:45 p.m. Try out different mediums including clay,drawing and painting.- Kids Art X-Travaganza: Ages 8-12, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Offers drawing, painting and claywork.

Creative Adult Art Classes: 17+ yrs- Pottery – Barb Plett: March 9 – May 4, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.- Watercolor I: March 7 – May 2, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. For those who are new to watercolor,learn the basics.- Watercolor II: April 12–May 31, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. For those who have previously takenwatercolor.- Digital Photography: March 2 – April 27, 7:00-9:00 p.m. Get to know your camera;create a good photograph.- New! With Jack Tate: Drop-in Drawing Classes, Mondays at 7-9 p.m. $10/class

Spanish class starts NOW! Great Corporate packages – send your employees! Back by popular demand, instructed by Marisol Pullido. 10 Wednesdays, March 2 –May 11. Our classes are almost full.

Arts for Tots Preschool Program- Early Fall Registration Begins March 1 The most creative way to learn early child development through dance, theatre, musicand visual arts – for ages 3-5. Instructors: Miss Carol & Miss Pam, Monday & Wednesday,9 – 11:30 a.m. & 1 -3:30 p.m.Tuesday & Thursday, 9 – 11:30 a.m. & 1 – 3:30 p.m.

Free Classes for Seniors – You can still sign up- Granny’s Secret Recipes, March 9 – 30. Give us your favorite recipes to create withother seniors; learn some new tips from our nutritional facilitator. Fun, and delicious.- Grandma & Grandpa’s Green Thumbs, April to June Participate in community projects, with local students. Share your knowledge! Thanks to Human Resources and Skills Development Canada.

Steinbach Arts Council Clubs- Photo Club with Dan Hewson: First Monday of the month- Southeast Artists Group: artists meet Tuesday mornings, 9:30 -11:30 a.m. Call GaryHolden, 346-9623

Summer in the City Festival 2011- Calling all Artists: Musicians, Bands, Singers, Actors, Dancers – or visual artists inoils, watercolor, pottery, and more. We are currently taking applications. Entry Deadline:March 31st.

Save the Date!Friday, May 13, Celebrate the Arts… in Mask-erade Style! Annual fundraiser. Watch forearly bird tickets on sale March 21st

Register for all classes at Steinbach Cultural Arts Centreor www.steinbachartscouncil.ca

School Gives FinancialSupport to Library

The Board of Bibliothèque Taché Library was very pleased to receive support for their‘Building Fund’ from students and parents of Ecole Lorette Immersion. In lieu of receivinggifts during the Christmas season, administration and staff encouraged families to make afinancial donation to the new facility. What a wonderful opportunity to work together toreach important goals like building community and promoting literacy for all!!

Teacher and Library Board member Michelle deRocquigny presents Board Chair Susan Berry (centre) and librarianMeghann Galbichka with a cheque for $192.00.

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!8

The City of Steinbach is already looking toward summer and putout a call for volunteers interested in participating in the community’sstorm watcher program. The City of Steinbach Storm Ready Team is looking for six volunteersto act as weather spotters for the upcoming storm season. As spotters,volunteers become the community’s eye on the sky for severe weather,such as tornados. Spotters must be residents of Steinbach or live within a 10 km radiusof the city. Each team consists of four members and is “on call” forone week per month during the months of May thru September.Volunteers are provided training by Environment Canada, as well asguidelines on how to report a sighting. When they are needed volunteers are notified and asked to watchthe sky for signs of severe weather developing. They then contactthe Emergency Operations Team and Environment Canada to reportit. Should a tornado touch down, spotters also play a significant roleby conducting a preliminary evaluation and reporting it so that a planof action can be made and the public informed. The city council decided two years ago that they would look forpeople interested in becoming the eyes and ears of potential emergencystorm situations. Sixteen people stepped forward and in part, this wasthe reason why the City of Steinbach was recognized as the firstcommunity in Canada to meet the requirements of the U.S. WeatherService’s StormReady Program. Denis Vassart, Emergency Planning Coordinator, explained theprocess. “I believe that having a StormReady plan in place will greatly enhancethe City of Steinbach’s Emergency Preparedness and help us mitigatethe severity of severe weather,” said Vassart. “We cannot control theweather, but we can help our community be better prepared byproviding information on what to do during a severe weather event.” Anyone interested in volunteering can call the City of Steinbach’sEmergency Planning Coordinator, Denis Vassart, at 392-5996.

By Marianne Curtis

Residents in both the Seine River and Hanover School Divisions canlook forward to seeing a zero school tax increase on their property tax bill. At a recent public meeting the Hanover School Division told attendeesthat they have crunched the numbers and will maintaining a cap on schooltaxes. Marilyn Plett, Hanover School Division financial chairperson, said thatthe division will be accepting the incentive grant from the province inorder to maintain a zero tax increase this year. “We are proposing to accept the tax incentive grant this year and thismeans that we will then go with a zero percent increase in mil rate,” explainedPlett. “We are not dropping any services.” Plett adds that different departments from throughout the division havecome together and identified different projects to move forward with. Whenthe division finds out exactly how many funding dollars will come in a finaldecision will be made on what items can be delayed or removed completelyfrom the budget. “We are not drawing down our reserves,” Plett adds. “The estimatedreserve of $2.5 million will remain in our accounts.” The Seine River School Division has not made a decision to accept theTax Incentive Grant yet, but according to finance chairperson Randy Engel,it is a possibility. “There are cost increases throughout the system and we will see howthose fit in with the Tax Incentive Grant,” Engel said. “We don’t have a lotof wiggle room right now.” The Seine River School Division accepted the grant last year andmaintained a zero tax increase. However, they were forced to dip into thedivision’s surplus to cover unexpected maternity and paternity leaves. “The division’s surplus is down at this point and well under the fourpercent target,” Engel continued. “If our budget projections are off, wedon’t have enough surplus to pull us out.” Both school divisions have one more meeting to finalize their budgetsbefore they must be submitted to the province for approval. The deadlineis March 15.

School Divisions Lookat Zero Tax Increases

The community of Grunthal has a very unique Olympic connection after they were recently awarded one of300 defibrillators used last year in Vancouver. The community of Grunthal was one of more than 200 community groups, aboriginal communities, search-and-rescue organizations, ski patrols, old-timer hockey leagues, schools and non-profit groups that receivedsurplus automatic external defibrillators that were used during the Vancouver 2010 Olympics and Paralympics. The defibrillators are gifts from the Vancouver Organizing Committee and Medtronic, the manufacturer. Shelley Parker, a spokeswoman for Medtronic, said nearly 350 groups across Canada applied for the machines,which can be used by bystanders when someone goes into cardiac arrest. Grunthal received the machinebecause of its distance from the nearest hospital and ambulance service in either Steinbach or St. Pierre. The machine designated for Grunthal will be kept at the community arena in the winter and then moved to thepark during the summer to be used at the swimming pool and the baseball diamonds.

Storm WatchersNeeded

Olympic DefibrillatorAwarded to Grunthal

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 9

By Marianne Curtis

The sod has been turned andconstruction has begun on a newfifty-two unit affordable seniorshousing complex in Steinbach. On February 11, construction ofBridgepark Manor, which includesunits geared towards independentliving kicked off on the heels of a $3million funding announcement bythe federal and provincialgovernments. Provencher MP Vic Toews was onhand to make the announcementpersonally. “This new building will allow lowincome seniors and seniors withdisabilities to stay in the communityclose to family and friends,” saidToews. “Safe affordable housingkeeps the seniors here, which helpsstabilize the area and strengthen thecommunity.” Kerri Irvin-Ross, Minister ofHousing and CommunityDevelopment admitted that this wasthe first sod turning she’s attendedthat had construction crews alreadyon site ready to work. “Today is a great day, and I havenever been to a sod turning beforewhere the machinery is already outthere, I am not surprised because Iknow this region already and whenthey get their minds set on[something] they get it done andthis is just another example of that.`

Sod Turned on AffordableHousing in Steinbach

Steinbach Mayor Mayor ChrisGoertzen is also pleased to seeconstruction begin. The city hasfinancially backed up the project ata rate of $1,400 per unit. “I have had many conversationswith people that have not been ableto keep their families in Steinbachwhen they became ill and it’s anincredible hardship, not only on theseniors, but on their supportnetworks as well,” explainedGoertzen. “This is not just for thecity – the entire region will benefitfrom this project.” Included in the 52 seniors’ units inBridgepark Manor will be 15 two-bedroom units and 37 one-bedroom,independent living and fullyaccessible apartments for mobility-impaired residents. Rents for theone- and two-bedroom units will beat or below the current medianmarket rent in Steinbach andadditional services, such ashousekeeping and recreationalprogramming, will be available totenants. Construction is expected to becompleted in October 2011. Federal funding was madeavailable through Canada’sEconomic Action Plan. Provincialfunding for the project was providedby Manitoba Housing throughHOMEWorks!, the Province ofManitoba’s long-term housingstrategy and investment plan.

Steinbach MLA, Kelvin Goertzen has launched anew website, www.getbethesdabuilt.com, to givearea residents an opportunity to directly email theprovince’s Premier to demand that the expansion ofthe Emergency Room at Bethesda Hospital finallyget completed more than three years after it wasannounced. “This project is important to the region and hasbeen stalled for far, far too long. This is anopportunity for residents of the region to send thatmessage directly to the Premier,” said Goertzen.

Residents from throughout the region are expected to benefit from the construction of a new 52-unit low income seniors housing facilitythat is now under construction in Steinbach.

Goertzen Asks Residents toEmail Premier on Emergency

Room Project

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!10

The RM of De Salaberry councilhas laid over a decision to approvean eight suite apartment blockproposed for St. Malo. At the beginning of February themunicipality held a conditional usehearing to allow the construction ofan 8-suite apartment block onDubois Street in St. Malo. Theproject is being proposed by BrunoHebert of Forty Creek Investmentsand Duane Enns of HazelwoodHomes. According to Hebert, the projectconsists of creating a single story,U-shaped 8-suite apartmentcomplex. “The clientele being targeted areyoung families starting out that arenot ready for a mortgage, who arecurrently required to move out of thecommunity to seek rental housing,to seniors looking to downgradefrom a dwelling,” he told council atthe hearing. Hebert already owns a 16 suiteapartment block on Main Street inSt. Malo. “There is a need for rentalproperty,” Hebert stressed. The subdivision was conditionallyapproved in 2010 and is scheduledto be developed in 2011. The complexwould generate over $8,000 inmunicipal and school taxes. Nine concerned residents voicedsome objections at the public

In the early morning hours ofFebruary 13, two suspects brokeinto the Village Green Restaurant onPark Road in Steinbach. They tookseveral bottles of liquor beforeleaving the business. They werewearing parkas and toques and onewas carrying a back pack. SteinbachRCMP have been continuing toinvestigate. If you have anyinformation you are asked to contactthe Steinbach RCMP at (204) 326-4452 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

On February 18 at approximately10:15 a.m. Falcon Beach RCMPresponded to a report of a motorvehicle collision on the Trans CanadaHwy approximately 1 km east ofProvincial Road 506, in the RM ofReynolds. Investigation revealed that apassenger car traveling east on theTrans Canada Hwy lost control andcollided with a Department ofHighways pickup truck that wasstopped on the shoulder of thehighway while at the scene of anunrelated single vehicle rollover. The driver of the passenger car waspronounced dead at the scene. Thepassenger in the car was transportedto hospital in unstable condition.The driver of the Department ofHighways truck sustained minorinjuries in the collision.

St. Malo ApartmentsUnder Consideration

hearing. Many of them came forwardwith concerns that a natural couleecould be closed. This could presenta flooding problem in the area,council heard. However, theproponents assured the group thatthe coulee would not be affected,along with many of the trees. Another concern raised by severalpeople was the type of people thatcould be renting the suites. Hebertresponded with assurances thatsince they were building a newstructure tenants would not be “lowincome”. Councillors Gerry Maynard andGermain Roy both agree that thereis a need for new affordable housingdevelopments in the community foryoung families to start off and saidthey were grateful that there areinvestors willing to invest in thecommunity of St. Malo. The RM of De Salaberry councilclosed the hearing and decided todelay any decisions until they couldconsider the matter further.

Collision on TransCanada Hwy East

Takes Life

Thieves TargetRestaurant

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 11

I love being a senior. I enjoy the never ending conversation withpeople who have lived a long time, men and women who honestly lookinto the future and debate life after death. We can agree that ever sincepeople have walked on the face of the earth they have wondered aboutlife after death. However, only inthe last days, say 30 years or so,have modern medicalprocedures become so efficientthat I have read that 100,000plus lives are saved each year. Itstretches the mind a bit whenwe read about clinical deathexperiences, people who havebeen snatched out of the clawsof the undertaker, people whohave come back to tell us what itwas like on the other side. Thishas created a whole new ideaconcerning death, its sensation,and its meaning. Let’s explore a thought: Whatsort of ideas come to mind whenwe talk about dying? Asbelievers we believe that death has occurred when the spirit leaves thebody. The medical side (I hope I am correct in saying this) says ithappens when the brain no longer shows any activity. But what does it really feel like to die? I do not know, I have neverbeen there. I can only go by what people who have had some neardeath experiences say or write. There are those who will say that themoment of death is absolutely painless. No choking or smothering, itfeels like fainting. But do you not think that the fear of death is muchbigger than that? Perhaps it is the fear of the unknown. If we wouldtruly know what happens the moment after death and what it wouldfeel like then, I believe, much of the fear of death could be removed –and that is where our faith in God takes over. We cannot ignore what the Bible has to say about after deathexperiences. In the book of Luke, chapter 16:22-26, Jesus is the onedoing the talking about a beggar by the name of Lazarus and a richman. Verse 22: “the time came when the beggar died and the angelscarried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and wasburied.”(NIV) We can be sure that the rich man’s burial was one ofgreat showiness and an elaborate ceremony. So much for the humanside of things! It is his soul that interests us. Where did he go? Verse23 tells us, “In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and sawAbraham far away, with Lazarus by his side.” (NIV) Notice severalthings that happen. First, he is in torment. There is literal pain.Somehow he catches sight of those who are in heaven and at peace.The second thing we see is that he is fully conscious. Finally we aremade aware that he has his senses and his memory. Verse 24: “So hecalled to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus todip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am inagony in this fire.’”(NIV) Before he was in torment; now he is in agony.He has the capacity for reason. He could see his surroundings. He hadfeelings. He could hear. He could taste. Speaking for the Lord, Abraham answers the man’s request in verse25. “But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime youreceived your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but nowhe is comforted here and you are in agony.’” (NIV) There was a timewhen I would joke about hell; but what do I do with verse 26? “Andbesides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, sothat those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyonecross from there to us.” (NIV) This fixed chasm that Abraham is talkingabout suggests a forever place where nobody, no matter who they are,will ever be able to come to one’s rescue after one dies. The Biblical lesson that we have discussed does not say, “It is a sinto be rich.” Rather, it teaches that, whether rich or poor, it is a sin toreject Christ and live only for ourselves, when we shut our ears to thevoice of God and fail to practice the love and mercy taught by Jesus inthe Bible. However, salvation, the way to heaven, comes to us whenwe put our trust in Jesus Christ, then tell others with our own mouththat Jesus is our Lord, believing in our heart that God has raised Himfrom the dead; for it is by believing in our heart that we become rightwith God. When we tell others with our mouth about our salvation,that brings confirmation to our faith. Would you pray this prayer with me? “Lord Jesus, come into myheart. Forgive my sins. I want my life to change. My thoughts and myattitude need to change. I do not have the peace in my heart that Iyearn for. I really want that peace, joy and happiness that will fulfill myheart’s desire. Please let the Holy Spirit help me be the kind of Christianthat will honor Your Name.” Amen

This FixedChasm

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!12

The public is invited to the Crow Wing Trail Association’s Annual Meeting, to be heldon Monday March 7 at 7 pm at the Sugar Shack next to the St.-Pierre-Jolys Museum in St-Pierre-Jolys. At the AGM, the Crow Wing Trail Association (CWTA) will proudly presented the newmarketing materials that were developed with funding from received from the South EastmanRHA Start Fresh! Program. This program is part of the provincial Chronic Disease PreventionInitiative (CDPI) to support communities in developing projects that address lifestyleissues and habits that increase the risk of chronic diseases. The grant enabled the CWTAto increase the visibility of our local section of the Trans Canada Trail as well as encourageresidents of our local communities to increase their physical activity out on the trail. The marketing tools that were developed include a stand-up banner featuring one of themain attractions of the trail – the Senkiw Swinging Bridge as well as a map of the entire trailwith pictures of trail activities and unique views along the way. The banner will accompanythe CWTA’s promotional tent, which is now decorated with the CWTA name and logo, atlocal events and displays to promote the Crow Wing Trail. Using Crow Wing Trail accesspoints, four community maps were developed to include directions to short looped walksalong with topics of interest. The Heritage Resource Guide and a photo album of the trailwere placed on cd’s for distribution at community events. In April, Georges Beaudry will present the Crow Wing Trail: Manitoba’s First CommercialHighway 1800-1870 at the National Association for Interpretation Workshop in Pinawa. The Crow Wing Trail is attracting more and more interest from trail use clubs, schools,seekers of active transportation and local residents alike. The trail was traveled by RedRiver Cart for the Metis Journey in 2002, and has been biked from one end to the other, andwalked in short loops. With the completion of the Floodway Expansion Project the trail willsoon be linked to the new Duff Roblin Park at the Red River Floodway. The Crow Wing Trail is the section of the Trans Canada Trail that connects Winnipeg toEmerson. The trail is based upon a historic fur trade route connecting the Red RiverSettlement of Fort Garry with St. Paul Minnesota. Although the trail is located along theoriginal route in some instances, for the most part is has been routed on a combination ofgravel roads, undeveloped road allowances, community parks, sidewalks and in someinstances, on private property to connect our communities and significant sites. The CrowWing Trail promotes hiking, biking, cycling, horseback riding and cross-country skiing. The Crow Wing Trail was officially registered with the Trans Canada Trail in 1999 andofficially opened in 2006. At 191 km, the Crow Wing is the longest section of the TransCanada Trail in Manitoba. The CWTA is a regional trail association comprised of volunteers from six municipalitiesand one First Nation: Ritchot, Niverville, De Salaberry, St. Pierre-Jolys, Franklin, Emersonand the Roseau River First Nation – who work together to welcome the Trans Canada trailthrough our communities in order to promote tourism, economic development, historicalawareness as well as provide for a great recreational opportunity. For More Information: Crow Wing Trail Website at www.mrta.mb.ca/Trails/CrowWing/home.htm.

Trail Association toHost Annual Meeting

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 13

By Marianne Curtis

On February 16 Jordan Siemens, owner of SiemensFarms and Providence College student, was named a2011 Student Entrepreneur Manitoba Champion. StudentEntrepreneur is a national competition operated bycharitable organization, Advancing CanadianEntrepreneurship (ACE) and CIBC, proud programsupporter. Since 2010 Siemens has owned and operated SiemensFarms, a start-up farming business focused on soybeanproduction, based in Horndean. A fourth generationfarmer, Siemens started his business this past summerby renting land and equipment from his father. He thentook advantage of his father’s bulk buying abilities topurchase seed, fertilizer, insurance, chemical, and laborand completed his first season with 50 acres ofsoybeans planted. “This award is a great honour as it gives me theconfidence and incentive to take my business further,”commented Siemens, “It also gives me the invaluableopportunity to meet other student entrepreneurs and anexclusive network of major business leaders.” Initially he was expecting a 25 percent profit, but withgood weather, commodity prices and soundmanagement Siemens managed to nearly double hisinvestment. “With today’s ever changing economic situation, ACEis proud to continue its work developing leaders,creating connections and building a better Canada,”explained Amy Harder, President of ACE. “We areconfident that our 2011 Student Entrepreneur ProvincialChampions will make meaningful contributions to thecountry and its economy for years to come.” As a provincial champion, Siemens will now move onto represent Manitoba in the regional round ofcompetition taking place at the 2011 ACE RegionalExposition in Calgary on March 14. ProvincialChampions will each present their business to a panel ofentrepreneurs and industry professionals who willdetermine two Regional Champions. Each will receive a$1,000 cash prize and move on to the final round ofcompetition at the 2011 ACE National Exposition inToronto on May 11. The National Champion will receivea $10,000 cash prize and have the opportunity torepresent Canada at the international level ofcompetition, the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards.

By Marianne Curtis

A grade seven student from St. Malo willbe honoured by having her award winningpainting distributed among youth anglersprovince-wide during the upcoming fishingseason. Twelve-year-old Jackie St. Hilaire wasamong several Ecole St. Malo students thatrecently took part in an art contestsponsored by Manitoba Youth Angler.Students had to depict a yellow perch in itsnatural environment. Her painting, called “Underwater Fun”,earned her a first place prize of $200 and aposter of her painting which will adorn thefront of 50,000 youth angling cards. To helppromote recreational fishing among youth,youth angling cards are available to childrenfree of charge wherever fishing licenses arepurchased.

ProvidenceStudentNamedStudent

EntrepreneurSt. MaloStudent

ProducesAward

WinningArtwork

The 12-year-old explained her painting. “I decided to use pencil crayons because I thought with pencilcrayons you could make more colors clash together,” said St. Hilaire.“I drew a lot of plants because yellow perch like hanging aroundswampy and plant filled places at the bottom of big lakes.” Rachael Plummer, an Ecole St. Malo art teacher, is thrilled with herstudent’s achievement. “We began by researching the yellow perch, looking at pictures andfinding out things such as it diet and natural habitat. Then weexperimented with some different media in the pictures and studentsdecided on whether to use oil pastels, pencil or paint in their finalpicture,” Plummer explained. “Jackie spent a lot of time working onthe details in her picture, such as the yellow perch’s scales, whichreally made her final product stand out.” As part of her prize, St. Hilaire and her parents went to the ManitobaLegislature to meet with the Minister of Water Stewardship ChristineMelnick.

A Human Resource event focusing on Employee Retention was offered at theSteinbach Chamber of Commerce February 17th. Attendants were pleased with theinformation received. They agreed that the changing economy has huge effects onretention, and retention is a direct factor in a company’s success. During the information session topics such as learning styles and generationcharacteristics were covered. It is extremely important to recognize each employeefor their differences. The event was sponsored by the Buller Centre for Business and the SteinbachChamber of Commerce. It was facilitated by Sarah Houghton of Safeway.

Water and Stewardship Minister Christine Melnick congratulates twelve year oldJackie St Hilaire for winning a province wide art contest hosted by Manitoba YouthAngler.

Event Focuseson Employee

Retention

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!14

EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT TOEDITOR@DAWSONTRAIL.CA

OR FAX 204-422-8548COMMUNITY EVENTSS p r a g u eS p r a g u eS p r a g u eS p r a g u eS p r a g u eThe Sprague & District Historical Museum annual dinner and concert will be held at the Sprague Hall on Saturday, March 12 at 5 pm. For more information, call Mary at 437-2342.

L o r e t t eL o r e t t eL o r e t t eL o r e t t eL o r e t t eSix evenings are offered for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one and would like an opportunity to share with others. Sessions are offered in French by Louise Dupontwho wrote a book about her son’s death to suicide 7 years ago. The sessions will be based on her book: “Mission accomplie: le parcours d’une mère vers la guérison et la réconciliation.”First session starts Thursday, March 10 at 7 pm at the Light of the Prairies Centre, 22115 Oakgrove Rd situated between Lorette and Ile des Chênes. Sessions will continue for 5 consecutiveThursdays. Please call Louise at 255-9548 for registration and/or further information.

Lorette Metis Local will again be holding a membership drive. To all new and previous members, everyone has to get their new card by September 2012. Membership drive, April 7at 7 pm, Centre Jubinville, 1298 Dawson Road. Please contact Lorraine at 878-3704 to confirm your attendance and for further information.

Le mercredi 23 mars prochain à 19 h en la salle paroissiale de Lorette, le Comité culturel de Lorette organise une soirée spectacle de Mathieu Lippé; auteur-compositeur-interprêtedu Québec, qui présente un heureux mélange de chansons de slam et de contes qui sont portés par des rythmes et des musiques du monde. En première partie, le groupe Les Imposteurs(élèves de Gabrielle-Roy), qui sont un des récipiendaires de prix à la Chicane électrique 2010, nous divertissera avec quelques chansons.  Les billets coûtent 7 $ à l’avance ou 10$ à la porte.  Pour réserver vos billets ou pour plus de renseignements, veuillez contacter Christianne au 878-3496.  Nous recommandons ce spectacle pour les personnes de 11 anset plus mais tous sont les bienvenues. On espère de vous voir en grand nombre!

The Lorette Metis Local is hosting its 3rd Annual Metis Cultural Event on Saturday, March 26 from 7:30 pm to 12:30 at the Lorette Parish Hall on Dawson Road in Lorette. Featured musicalartist Michael Audette & The Real Deal will be on hand. 50/50 Draw, Silent Auction and Door Prize! Advanced Tickets only - $12.50. Lunch served. For more info call Lorraine at 878-3704 or Rene at 298-9887.

S t e i n b a c hS t e i n b a c hS t e i n b a c hS t e i n b a c hS t e i n b a c hBreakfast with the President. Mar. 19, 8:15 - 10:30 am at the Brass Lantern, 145 Main Street, Steinbach. Join President Gus Konkel for an excellent hot breakfast and an informativepresentation on Providence College and Seminary. Please RSVP to Margaret Schonewille, at 204-433-7488 x 236.

You are invited to attend the 13th annual Southeast Open Judged Art Exhibit ceremonies. Adult Exhibit Opening Ceremony – Thursday, March 3 at 7 pm. Juvenile Exhibit Opening– Friday, March 4 at 7 pm. Be among the first to view the works and meet the artists in person. Enjoy an evening of coffee and refreshments with other special guests, and dignitaries,our Board of Directors and our Arts Community.

Canadian Blood Services invites Steinbach and area residents to assist patients in need of blood treatment by attending the blood donor clinic in Steinbach on March 17. Please attendthe clinic at Steinbach E.M.C. 422 Main St. on Thursday, March 17 from 12:30- 3:30 & 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Since a single donation (unit) of blood can assist up to three people, reachingthe goal of 173 units of blood will benefit up to 519 patients in need of blood treatment. You can help! Call now for an appointment or for further information call 1 888 2 DONATE (1888 236 6283). Saving lives together!

Steinbach Mixed Curling Bonspiel March 11 – 13. Entry Fee $140/team Includes Meal Contact Wilf Peters 326-3676.

YFC Steinbach Festival of Friends Fund Raising Dinner on Thursday, March 10, Steinbach Mennonite Church, 345 Loewen Blvd. Come to hear, see and participate: Philip and KathyPenner on Harp and Piano Teen Stories from 2010. All tickets are compliments of Steinbach Canadian Tire and Dunn Rite Chicken. For tickets call 326-4366.

Fitness classes at Steinbach 55 Plus until March 17th. Mondays and Thursdays 9:30 am - 10:30 am. Classes take place at Steinbach 55 Plus 10 Chrysler Gate. Instructor Marisol. Paymentoptions $55 member, $60 non member, $4 Walk in. For more information call 320-4600.

Are you interested in expanding your leadership abilities? Do you have trouble with speaking to others, from making small talk at a party to making large group presentations at workor in the community? Then Toastmasters is for you! The Carillon Toastmasters Club of Steinbach has regular meetings Thursday evenings at 7 pm in the activity room of the Jake EppLibrary, 255 Elmdale Street. Guests are welcome to visit for free!

Canada’s outstanding professional vocal ensemble, the Vancouver Chamber Choir and conductor Jon Washburn have performed across the country and internationally since the choir’sformation in 1971. The Choir presents a full concert season, tours, performs in broadcasts and recordings, and offers five highly acclaimed educational programs. Come hear their stunningconcert on Thursday, March 3 at 7:30 pm with a special appearance by our own SRSS Chamber Choir. Phone 204-346-1077 for more information.

Come along and join us for a fantastic informative program for teen girls (aged 12-15) and their moms on Friday, March 4 from 6 to 8 pm at the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre. Wewill have fun workshops including makeover nights, jewelry making, hair and skin care, and even a chance for moms to be dressed by their daughters for a fun fashion show! Topicsalso covered at the groups will include advice on drugs, alcohol, running away, behaviours, safety, nutrition - moms and daughters will go into separate groups throughout the eveningand then join together as a group. Refreshments and door prizes included and this event is Free of charge to attend! For more information call or email Zoe at 371-1509or zoe.clark@shaw.ca.

If you are 60 years of age or over and like hockey, you are invited to our Shinny Drop-in Hockey every Monday from 10 am – 11 am at the Centennial Arena in Steinbach. For moreinformation, contact Bob Barrow at 204-392-3596 or email bob.r.barrow@gmail.com.

Cribbage at the Steinbach Legion will take place on Friday, March 11 and also on March 25. Everyone is welcome! Whether you’re a pro or just learning, come out for an evening offun. Registration begins at 7 pm and Game starts at 7:30 pm. The cost is $5.00/person and includes a snack, a light lunch and prizes. For more information, contact Carol at 204-326-4281 or email johncarolf@hotmail.com.

2010-2011 Rural City AA and Rural City A Midget Hockey Provincial Tournament, with 7 teams. From March 11 - 13. Gates open on Friday at 8:30 a.m. Opening ceremonies to be heldon Friday, March 11th, at 6:30 p.m. in the Centennial Arena. Skills competitions for Midget AA on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. and for Midget A on Friday at 7:30 p.m. Medal games to beheld on Sunday.

All are welcome to this year’s spring Bethesda Auxiliary Healthcare Book Faire at the Clearspring Mall that will be taking place from March 23 to March 26. Donations can be droppedoff at the former Saan store or the bin in front of Sobey’s at Clearpsring Centre in Steinbach. For more information, contact Verna or Phyllis at 204-326-3028 or 204-346-1640.

Old time country dance at Steinbach 55 Plus on March 25. Live Band By Request. Tickets available at Steinbach 55 Plus $8 member, $10 non member, $12 at the door for all. Startsat 8 pm and a light lunch will be served at 10 pm. Contact Maggie at 204-320-4600 or email ssinc@mts.net for more information.

Ile Des ChenesIle Des ChenesIle Des ChenesIle Des ChenesIle Des ChenesSeine River Minor Ball registration 2011 is available online starting now. Go to srmb.countmein.com to register. Online Volunteer signup is also available. Walk in registration is onSaturday, March 12 from 10 am to 2 pm at the Ile des Chenes Arena. Visa, Mastercard, cash or cheque to Seine River Minor Ball. A Cheque of $50 for volunteer deposit will also berequired. Deadline for registration is April 10. Call Jennifer at 204-878-2217 for more info.

Ile Des Chenes Rec Centre AGM will be held March 31st, 7:30 pm at the Rec Centre, 414 Main St., Ile des Chenes.

B l u m e n o r tB l u m e n o r tB l u m e n o r tB l u m e n o r tB l u m e n o r tAre you looking to get in shape? Are you looking for a place to socialize with fellow community members?  Walking is the best and cheapest form of exercise to maintain or reachyour physical activity goals.  This walking club will help you reach your fitness goals and gives you the opportunity to mingle with your Blumenort neighbours.  Our group gets togetherweekly on Wednesdays at 10 am. If you would like more information on the Walking Club, please contact Travis at 346-7132.

M i t c h e l lM i t c h e l lM i t c h e l lM i t c h e l lM i t c h e l lBreakfast every Tuesday morning at the Mitchell and Area Seniors Center from 7:30 am to 9 am (except the last Tuesday of the month - a social is held instead). The social includeslunch entertainment and socializing. Lunch starts at 12 noon. For information, call 204-326-6944.

Falcon LakeMarch 19 will be the Falcon Lake Winter Fish-Off – This is the 8th annual event. Anglers are allowed on the ice at 9 am. Prizes are awarded to the 50 heaviest fish caught with $10,000cash going to the heaviest fish. For more info, email setthehook@shaw.ca or call toll free 1-866-676-FISH.

G e n e r a lG e n e r a lG e n e r a lG e n e r a lG e n e r a lThe super start program, a healthy baby program run through south Eastman health/santé Sud-est inc. This is a program for pregnant women and families with infants up to one yearof age. Each session includes a song and rhyme time, discussions, and games on topics related to healthy babies and healthy moms. We offer a door prize and a nutritious snack.Also, we have milk coupons for expectant mothers and mothers who have babies up to six months of age who participate in the program. This month, our session will be held on…Tuesday Mar 1 from 10 am – 12 pm in the Family Hut in the South Oaks School, Grunthal. Thursday, Mar 3 from 10 am – 12 pm at the Blumenort EMC Church.Tuesday, Mar 8 from 10 am – 12 pm at the 4th Ave. Bible Church, Niverville.Wednesday, Mar 9 from 10 am – 12 pm at the Dayspring Fellowship in Ste. Anne.Thursday, Mar 10 from 10 am – 12 pm at the Kleefeld Recreation Center.Tuesday, Mar 15 from 10 am – 12 pm at Mitchell Mennonite Church (CMC).Thursday, Mar 17 from 10 am - 12pm in the St. Pierre Health Corner, 354 Prefontaine av.Tuesday, Mar 22 from 10 am – 12 pm in the Ste. Agathe Hall.Wednesday, Mar 23 from 10 am – 12 pm at the Community Health office beside the pharmacy in Lorette.For more information please call terry from super start at 346-7021 or just drop in.

On February 24, at approximately 10:50 am, Steinbach RCMPresponded to a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of MainStreet and Friesen Avenue in Steinbach. The investigation determinedthat a North Bound Mazda Van failed to stop for a red light andstruck an east bound school bus. Both vehicles then collided with atraffic light and then struck a west bound dump truck. The school bus was empty except for the driver. Neither the busdriver nor the dump truck driver was injured. The driver of the van, a 73-year-old male from Steinbach, was takento the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach. He was subsequentlytransported to the Health Science Center in Winnipeg where he waslisted in critical condition, but he succumbed to his injuries thefollowing day. The investigation has determined that speed and alcohol were notfactors in the collision. The driver of the van was not wearing a seatbelt.

On February 14 at around 11:50 p.m. RCMP in Steinbach received areport of a suspicious vehicle in a parking lot near the Le Depanneur Store(Shell Station) in La Broquerie. According to the caller, two males wereseen exiting a vehicle and walking towards the store wearing balaclavasand carrying a baseball bat. A short time later Steinbach RCMP received areport of an intrusion alarm at the Le Depanneur Store. RCMP attendedand learned that the store had been broken into and Lottery tickets hadbeen stolen. Based on interviews of witnesses, RCMP were able to gatherdescriptions of the suspects and the vehicle they were driving. Approximately an hour later a vehicle matching the description waslocated traveling west bound on the Trans Canada Hwy near the Hwy 12turn-off. It was stopped and four youths were arrested. Inside the vehiclepolice located balaclavas, bear spray, and the stolen Lottery tickets. The investigation led to two 16-year-old male youths being chargedwith break and enter, wearing a disguise in the commission of an offenceand possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace. One of theyouths was released by a justice for a court date in March. The second youth, based on evidence obtained during this investigation,was also charged with an armed robbery that occurred at the same storeon January 18. In that case a lone male entered the store wearing a balaclavaand carrying pepper spray. He confronted the store clerk and made offwith an undisclosed amount of money. This youth was remanded intocustody and appeared in court on February 16. RCMP in Steinbach would like to thank the public who assisted in thisinvestigation.

Citizens’ Tips Leads toCharges of Break and

Enter, and Armed Robbery

Man Dies After Colliding with School Bus

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 15

By Marianne Curtis

Snowmobile enthusiasts may be wondering whathappened to the trails that are normally groomed throughoutthe region. Unfortunately, due to a lack of funding, theVoyager Trail Grooming Association (VTGA) was forced toshut down trails early. Todd Temple, president of the VTGA, said that he wouldlike to apologize to snowmobile riders in the area. “We would like to apologize to local sledders in our areafor our current grooming shutdown,” stated Temple. “Wedecided to stop grooming our trail system due to the financialrestraints that SNOMAN (Snowmobilers of Manitoba) hasplaced on the club.” Temple explained that the issue arose over the use of theclubs grooming equipment. The club uses a CATChallenger 85 C and a mogul Master 12' drag whichefficiently grooming the trails at an average 19 km/hour.The VTGA trail system takes approx 40 hours to groom andapproximately $1,000 of fuel is used per grooming. He said that SNOMAN changed the rules and now requiresthat the groomer operate at a maximum speed of 13km/hour

By Marianne Curtis

Two youth programs administrated by Youth forChrist in Steinbach recently received a $5,000 fundingboost thanks to a newly established philanthropygroup. The Chrysalis Fund, established by Simone Pennerand Debbie Krahn, recently presented the staff ofBackStage with a cheque for $5,000. Penner is pleased with the group’s first grantpresentation. “We have done our first granting and it is veryexciting,” stated Penner. “This year our giving projectwas the U-Turn House in Steinbach for new flooringand the supper club that Youth for Christ hosts onWednesday evenings.” Half of the donation is going towards installing newflooring in the basement of U-Turn. U-turn is a semi-independent home for youth aged 15-19, whichprovides a stable living environment and training foremployability and independent living. The remaining$2,500 will go towards purchasing groceries andenhancing programming for the Wednesday eveningSupper Club. The club meets weekly and discussionsare held to discuss life issues and then they eattogether. Established back in October, the Chrysalis Fund is agroup of women that have gathered together in a newphilanthropic venture through a non-profit givingcircle. The 17 members decided to combine their moneyinto a shared fund and each member contributed$1,000. Grants are then given out to variousorganizations from the earned interest. The Chrysalis Fund meets twice a year to reviewand celebrate the impact granting has made, to receivefeedback from the organizations they’ve funded, andto learn about new opportunities to give. Local organizations looking for some support fromthe Chrysalis Fund can pick up an application fromthe Steinbach Chamber of Commerce office. Anywomen interested joining can emailthechrysalisfund@gmail.com.

Grooming Club Apologizes to Ridersaveraged over a seasons grooming. If the speed is exceeded,the payout to the Club has been reduced to 50 percent. Thenew speed reduction ups the hours for grooming to seventyhours at a cost of about $1,500 in fuel. “By almost doubling our costs and decreasing our payoutby half, it does not make financial sense for the club tocontinue grooming until we are reimbursed equally with otherclubs in Manitoba,” Temple added. “We have askedSNOMAN to meet with us multiple times and witness ourgrooming in action or compromise a solution with us, but wehave been declined every time.” Prior to shutting down grooming for the season, VTGAgroomed approximately 2,750 km of trail this season alreadyand are faced with a 50 percent reduction in payment fromSNOMAN for that work, said Temple. Money raised through the sale of the passes by SNOMANis funnelled back into local snowmobile clubs who maintainand groom the system’s many trails. Temple encouragesSnopass purchasers to demand a refund from SNOMAN forbeing unable to use some of the local trails due to thegrooming stoppage.

Giving CircleMakes FirstPresentation

Garage Saleenthusiasts travellingto Steinbach will haveto travel to a centrallocation to find thelatest bargain spotsafter the city hasofficially bannedboulevard advertising. The City of Steinbachcouncil has come upwith a solution to agrowing problem afterdetermining that traffic

volume through Steinbach has grown considerably,making it dangerous for people putting up garage salesigns and for shoppers gathering that information. “We have come up with an alternative,” said MayorChris Goertzen. The City of Steinbach has decided they will set up acentral sign on a vacant lot near the TG Smith Arena.The sign will contain protected slots the size of a sheetof paper so that people can put up posters advertisingtheir sales. The city has already allocated $5,000 from this year’sbudget to pay for the sign, including installation. Thesign is expected to be erected this spring as weatherallows. Signs that are placed along the city’s streets andboulevards will be removed by the City. Those placedon private property will be allowed to stay as long asthey are within the community’s sign bylaw.

Garage SaleSign Ban inSteinbach

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!16

For four days in February the St. Malo Provincial Park hosted the Festivalof Friends. Kicking off February 17 and running until February 20, the annual festivaldrew hundreds of participants to St. Malo for a spectacular celebration ofculture, cuisine and traditions. Friday’s highlights included a movie, fireworks and entertainment bythe Les Girls. A vintage snowmobile parade took place on Saturdayfollowed by a hockey game with Winnipeg Jets alumni, On Sunday iceracing and live entertainment by the Luzzif Classic Rock Band, BernieElastic and his Rubber Band, Michael Audette and Tickle Trunk roundedout the activities. Other activities took place including ice fishing, skating,a snow maze, snow shoeing, horse drawn hay rides and much more.

By the last weekend of February, the community of St. Adolphe was a-buzz asconstruction crews working on the Pierre Delorme Bridge have been cleaning up thesite and slowly moving out. Mayor Bob Stefaniuk has confirmed that the community’s only direct access toHighway 75 could re-open to traffic by the end of the first week of March. “There are a lot of rumors going around now, especially since the boarding on thebridge has been taken down,” stated Stafaniuk. “What I have heard through oursources is the bridge will re-open on or before Friday, 4 March – time will tell!” RM of Ritchot residents have been impatiently waiting for the bridge reconstructionto be complete. The bridge was closed in August 2009 after support piers shifted. In early 2010 theprovince fast tracked the project financially and construction commenced in thespring. However, high water levels affected the project over the summer and the fallpushed the opening date back until spring 2011. Additional roadwork will continue over the summer but residents will be able touse the bridge during that time.

St. Malo HostsFestival of Friends

Left: Ayva Perry and Kamryn Perry got into the festival spirit during this year’s Festival ofFriends.

Below: Traditional snow sculptures welcomed visitors to St. Malo Provincial Park.

St. Adolphe Bridge Expectedto Re-open March 4

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 17

By Marianne Curtis

On Mother’s Day the fourth annual Run for Mom istaking place in Steinbach. Money raised during theone-day event will go towards Anna’s House, whichoffers programming designed to help mothers fromthroughout the region. The annual Run for Mom is a Steinbach and areacommunity event that consists of a 5-kilometer or 10-kilometer run or walk. The year 2010 marked the thirdconsecutive successful year with 476 registeredparticipants and over 100 volunteers on the streets ofSteinbach on a beautiful Mother’s Day afternoon. Greg Penner, event organizer, is looking forward tothe event. “We are now in the planning stages for an evenbigger and better event for this year,” stated Penner.“One of the changes this year is that the start line is atthe TG Smith Arena.” Penner adds that fundraising is not required toparticipate in the event. The registration fee is donatedcompletely to the facility. “This is not an event that you need to fundraise for,though we do have a charity aspect,” explained Penner.“We are hoping to see 500 runners this year with evengreater support from surrounding communities.” Pre-registration is encouraged and cost forparticipation ranges from $15 for youth to $30 for anadult, dependant on length of the run and date ofregistration. Family rates are available also. To registeror find more information visit the event’s website atrunformom.ca. Anna’s House is a family resource centre that islocated in Steinbach, but is dedicated to servingexpectant mothers and families with children up to theage of 5. Programs are designed for children in eachage group along with resources: a library, car seat andbreast pump lending program, clothing, and nutritionprograms are all offered at the facility to women fromthroughout the region.

RegistrationBegins for Run

for Mom By Marianne Curtis

Residents interested in recreational developmentin Niverville are encouraged to participate at ameeting designed to create a recreational plan forthe area. The Niverville Recreation and WellnessCommission is currently spearheading thedevelopment of a Community Recreation Plan forNiverville. The planning process will begin withcollecting information from community residents andrecreation groups. From the input received, the groupwill identify community issues, needs and interests. Donna Watts, Director of Recreation and Wellness,explained the benefits of community recreationplanning. “By developing a shared future vision and arecreation plan for our community, we will be able toachieve more,” explained Watts. “Input from allcommunity members and groups that are interestedin sport, recreation, leisure, and culture is critical indeveloping a comprehensive plan.” The group will also examine and determine values,issues, priorities and goals for recreation in thecommunity. “The future of recreation in our community isimportant – from the input received we will start toidentify community issues, needs and interests,”Watts added. “By working together and taking aproactive approach we can make great thingshappen.” The public community meeting will take placeMarch 9 at the Niverville Centennial Arena in thesouth end meeting room starting at 6:30 p.m. Thosein attendance will be able to provide thoughts onrecreation in the area and hear about trends andfactors that impact recreation in the area.

The Hanover School Division is eagerly looking forward to thestart of construction on the new Clearspring Middle School. According to Ken Klassen, Hanover School Divisionsuperintendent, the construction contract for the new school wasrecently awarded to Penn-Co Construction of Blumenort.Construction is expected to begin in the next few weeks and doors tothe new school will open in September 2012. In preparation the Hanover School Division will also begin lookingfor a new principal designate for the school. Klassen explains that theprincipal designate will have some release time to work together withthe superintendents and the principals of the sendingschools to make arrangements for furniture, supplies and resourcesneeded for a successful start-up and to ensure a smooth transfer ofstudents and staff. The Hanover School Division expects to begin staffing the newschool in March 2012.

South Eastman Health is getting ready to go totender on a major expansion project for the Ste. AnneHospital. According to Monique Vielfaure Mackenzie, SouthEastman Health’s chief executive officer, sevencompanies responded to a pre-qualifying tender. Thepre-qualifying tender was issued to identify potentialcompanies that would want the project. “We should have approval to go to tender at thebeginning of March,” stated Vielfaure Mackenzie. The Ste. Anne Hospital expansion includes thecomplete renovation of the surgical unit at theregion’s second largest hospital. An additional 10,000square feet will be added to the 20,000 square foothospital at a cost of around $15 million. The board of South Eastman Health expects toannounce the winning bid by early April andconstruction expected to begin at the end of the month.

Committee Lookingat Recreation in

Niverville

Ste. AnneHospital ProjectReady for Tender

Middle SchoolTender Awarded

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!18

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 19

The RM of Hanover recently celebrated thecompletion of renovations at the municipality’sEmergency Operations Centre by unveiling newequipment purchased specifically for the facility. On February 11 the RM of Hanover officiallyrecognized the contribution of funds to themunicipality for the renovation of the municipality’sEmergency Operations Centre. Provencher MP Vic Toews was on hand to turn ona new backup generator located at the RM ofHanover’s Emergency Operations Centre locatedinside the municipal office building. RM of Hanover Emergency Coordinator DennisVassart expects that the new equipment will makethings easier for the people working within theemergency centre if the need arose. The new generator and other equipment werepurchased by the municipality using federal fundsfrom the Joint Emergency Preparedness Program(JEPP). The JEPP grant was $21,865. In addition tothe generator, the municipality was able to purchasesome cots, laptops and communications equipment.

By Marianne Curtis

In a few short weeks the Ste. AnneHospital Foundation will belaunching their second annualonline fundraising auction sale.Money raised during the week longonline auction will go towards asignificant expansion in the worksat the region’s second largesthospital. Colleen Rivard, with the Ste.Anne Hospital Foundation, isoptimistic that the auction sale willdo well. “Last year was our first auction andwe cleared $9,176 which we felt wasa great success being it was ourfirst,” explained Rivard. “We arelooking for support from companies,organizations, and people to helpmake this happen.” The upcoming auction is takingplace from April 5-15. Items up forauction will be for building/remodeling/landscaping needs.There are various items such as airconditioning units, water softeners,door and window packages, lightingpackages, fascia soffit, siding, giftcertificates for cabinetry, excavationprojects, backfill, prairie stone andmore. This year tradesmen’s servicesand landscaping material will also bepart of the auction. The Ste. Anne HospitalFoundation is currently committedto raise money needed for therequested 10 percent communitycontribution towards the newsurgical suite and recovery areawhich will be housed in a new wing.The total cost for the project isestimated at $15 million and thefoundation has committed tofundraising $1.5 million. The Townof Ste-Anne, the surroundingmunicipalities and the private sectorhave been invited to contributegenerously to the project. Once the surgical suite is completethe Ste. Anne Hospital will be ableto offer full time operating servicesand alleviate some of the pressureon Bethesda Hospital’s surgicaldepartment. To find out more information aboutthe online auction or the Ste. AnneHospital Foundation visitsteannehospitalfund.ca/auctions/.

Hanover Adds Generatorto Emergency Centre

The RM of Hanover council, along with Provencher MP Vic Toews and other dignitaries, check out the newgenerator purchased for the municipality’s emergency operations centre.

There will be a Public Hearing inNiverville on March 22 at 7:35 p.m.regarding the closing of a portion ofa Public Reserve in Plan 8285(Ritchot Drive). There will also be aPublic Hearing at 7:45 p.m. on March22 regarding the re-zoning of a partof a Public Reserve Plan 8285 andLots 1-4 inclusive, from \”R1\” SingleFamily Residential to \”R2\” Two-Family Residential Zone (RitchotDrive). For more information contactJim Buys 204-388-4600 ext. 105.

Online AuctionReady forLaunch

Niverville toHost PublicHearings

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!20

Young Canadians are invited to takepart in the Canadian SecuritiesAdministrators (CSA) ‘FinancialFitness Challenge’, an online contestthat uses videos, Facebook andTwitter tips to help youth getfinancially fit. The contest is aimedat helping youth increase theirfinancial literacy and offers them thechance to win an Apple iPad or agrand prize of $2,000. The Financial Fitness Challenge,FinancialFitnessChallenge.ca, runsto April 15 and uses interactive toolsand scenarios to raise awareness ofimportant financial concepts such asbalancing needs versus wants,budgeting, saving and investing.This year, visitors to the site will seefour new entertaining and informativevideos on budgeting, credit cards,investing and investment fraud. “With close to 60,000 youth activelyparticipating in the challenge overthe past four years, the CSA haspresented financial literacyeducation in a format that resonateswith youth,” said Bill Rice, Chair ofthe CSA. “We encourage parentsand teachers to continue to developfinancial literacy skills in youth byusing the Challenge as a fun andinformative learning tool.” The bilingual contest is open toCanadians ages 15 to 21 and offersyouth the opportunity to invitefriends to join the Challenge, and tocompete and engage with contestparticipants at a local and nationallevel. Classroom materials includinglesson plans are available todownload from the Teacher andParent Resource Centre at thewebsite. At the close of the contest, 13entries – one from each province andterritory – will be randomly selectedfrom eligible participants to win anApple iPad, and one national grandprize winner will be awarded a $2,000scholarship. The CSA, the council of securitiesregulators of Canada’s provincesand territories, coordinates andharmonizes regulation for theCanadian capital markets.

Unusual Tax Tips Most people know the common tax tips for saving money on your personal income tax return: medical expenses, tools for tradespersons,meals for truck drivers, child care expenses and the like. But there are some unusual ones that I find out about from time to time, or some itemsthat are not very common.

For example, laser eye surgery is becoming more common as people tire of wearing glasses or contacts. Didyou know this is an eligible medical expense credit? And since it costs hundreds or thousands of dollars, it canmean quite a saving on your tax return. If you have had eye surgery in the past ten years, you can still go backand adjust that past tax return (I hope you still have the receipt or can get a duplicate of one! Speaking of medical expenses, you do not have to use the normal calendar year. Say you had major expensesat the end of one year and at the beginning of the next year. You could claim all of these on the one tax return.You could choose the 12 month period ending say March 31 2010 and use expense going back to April 1 2009if that is a better tax savings for you on your 2010 tax return. Hair transplants are also considered a medical expense; it’s considered to be beneficial to the patient’s health.Although some cosmetic medical surgery has been eliminated from the list of eligible expenses, many are stillclaimable if it’s recommended by your physician. Did you use a lawyer to receive additional compensation from your employer? Maybe a severance payment?These lawyer fees are a deduction from that income. One that is very unusual is a farmer who deducts the costs of his cats (food and vet bills) because they areused for pest control. Yes, if you can prove you need the cats or dogs legitimately for your business then youcan certainly deduct their expenses as business expenses. Of course if you have a service dog, you can deductthe dog food and other related expenses. I have seven furry friends, too bad I can’t figure out a way to deducttheir expenses!

Do you pay for a “lunch program” at school for your child? This is supervision and is considered child care expenses. This also applies forany before and after school programs you pay for if it includes “supervision”. Moving expenses can also be claimed as a deduction if you moved more than 40km to be closer to your new job. Although many people arereimbursed by their employers (and cannot deduct these expenses), I find young people are often moving around and are not claiming theseexpenses, even if it’s just the vehicle expenses (based on a per kilometre amount) and meals. Other expenses of course could be a moving vanand accommodations or even storage costs. If one spouse has dividend income and by having the other spouse claim it the spousal amount is created or can be made larger, then it canbe moved to the higher income spouse. I’ve only seen this situation a couple of times over the years. Pension Income Splitting is fairly new (2007 was the first year), but when I review some past tax returns for new tax clients, I find that most areclaiming the full 50%. This is not always the best option. Sometimes splitting less than 50% means more medical expenses can be claimed bythe lower income spouse. Tax software used by professionals makes this exercise a lot easier. These are just a few examples of why it sometimes pays to have a professional file your taxes for you. At least every few years if you reallywant to do it yourself Unfortunately the way our tax system works, it’s up to you to find out what you may be eligible for. That’s why I like to ask lots of questionsespecially of my new tax clients. Anni Markmann is an independent financial planner and tax professional working, living, playing, and volunteering in our community.Contact her at 422-6631 or annimarkmann@mts.net or at 107 Central Avenue in Ste Anne.

Online Videosand ContestOffer Youth

Chance to GetFinancially Fitand Win Big

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 21

We have some interesting information on what the 2011 economy may bring for Manitoba. At theWinnipeg Realtors Annual Breakfast Meeting recently, president Ralph Fyfe conveyed that, “Thecontinued strength of the local real estate market has received national headlines proclaiming thatWinnipeg will lead the way in 2011.” Michael Benarroch, keynote speaker and Dean of the faculty of Business and Economics at theUniversity of Winnipeg, spoke about the current global financial crisis and the recovery now underway.He said, “The recovery is still fragile, especially in the U.S. The GOOD NEWS for Canada was that itcame out of the recession relatively unscathed in comparison to the U.S.” “The U.S. debacle resulted from the approval in 2007 of $2 trillion in sub-prime mortgages, whichrepresented 20 percent of the total mortgage market. From 2005 to 2007, 40 percent of mortgages wereadjustable, meaning buyers were counting on a continual upward climb in house prices, but theopposite occurred.” Benarroch emphasized the difference between American and Canadian mortgage delinquency rates-over 25 percent in the U.S., a mere 2 percent in Canada. While Canada’s recession officially ended in the fourth quarter of 2009, Benarroch said there was aslow recovery in 2010. Canada’s economy is projected to grow by 2.5 percent in 2011. Manitoba has certainly fared better than most of Canada in 2009 with only .03 percent decline in GrossDomestic Product (GDP) (2.6 percent for Canada). In 2010, however, its growth rate of 2.2 percent fellbehind Canada’s rate of 2.9 percent. Manitoba’s unemployment rate of 5.3 percent is below Canada’s 7.8percent. Manitoba averaged weekly earnings growth of 1.7 percent (0.5 percent in Canada) last year, abig jump in housing starts and a population increase of 1.3 percent. Greg Dandewich, senior vice-president of Economic Development Winnipeg (EDW), outlined theprogram that is in place to attract new business and help existing local business to expand. His chartshowed that the city had grown by 44,000 people over the last 10 years, and surrounding ruralmunicipalities grew by 54,000 people. This growth is in stark contrast to the 1990’s, which were relativelystatic. More impressive was the forecast that rural municipalities will grow by 210,000 and the city by170,000 people over the next 10 years. These stats, includingthe job increase andmajor constructionforecasted in the future,make Manitoba’s futurelook bright for Real Estatein the coming years. Travis Olifirowich(371-7223) and EileenLewis (371-0255) arewith PrudentialRiverbend Realty. Forinformation on thisarticle feel free tocontact them.

Overall... It’sGood to Be AManitoban!

The only difference between a tax man anda taxidermist is that the taxidermist leavesthe skin.

- Mark Twain

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!22

The RM of De Salaberry council has decided that itis time to update the security system throughout themunicipal office. According to council, the municipality has agreedthat a modern security system should be installedthroughout the 56-year-old office building. Reeve Ron Musick explained that the matter came tothe table after the office was broken into aroundDecember 27. Culprits gained entry by breaking a sidewindow and they damaged 11 interior doors.Approximately $750 in cash was stolen from thepremises. The municipality’s insurance company is coveringthe damages sustained in the break-in. To prevent further incidences, the municipality hasagreed to re-key all 49 doors in the building and installa security system. The system, which is being installedby Legal Locksmith, is costing the municipality $9,500.

Parents from four rural community schools within the Hanover SchoolDivision will breathe a little easier when the division launches a newprogram after spring break. Hanover School Division Finance officer Marilyn Plett said that thedivision is moving ahead with installing adult crossing guards in fourcommunities. “We are looking at starting an adult crossing guard program in theschool division and have identified four communities where there is agreat need for that,” stated Plett. “We have given the four schools thegreen light to start the program after spring break.” Adult crossing guards will be placed in Blumenort, Landmark, Grunthaland Niverville. The Hanover SchoolDivision has alreadyaccounted for theimplementation in theirupcoming budget. If theprogram is successful it willthen be expanded to otherschools or communities.

The Town of Niverville has asked for an extension of their infrastructurefunding so that they can complete upgrading the community’s watertreatment plant without losing money for the project. The Town of Niverville council is hoping to take advantage of the federaland provincial offer of a onetime extension on the deadline for fundingprojects under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund and the Building CanadaFund. The community’s $2.5 million water treatment plant upgrade projectreceived funding from both these programs but due to weather was unableto be completed before the March 31 deadline. Historically, if not completedby the program completion deadline a project could lose all fundingcommitments. In this case, the town of Niverville could lose $1.66 millionin funding – $832,300 from each program. Initially, projects that received funding from these programs weresupposed to be completed by March 31. However, for a variety of reasons,both governments have extended the deadline to October 31 for one timeonly. The Town of Niverville council is confident that they will have theproject complete by the October 31 deadline if the request is accepted.

A St. Pierre business woman has pled guilty to tax evasion and fraudafter charges were brought against her by Revenue Canada. Marcelle Bergeron, owner of Country Charm Cleaning Services and MRBEnterprises, is facing fines of $47,335 after pleading guilty of tax evasionand GST fraud. The 56-year-old cleaning woman has 60 months to pay thefine. She is also responsible to pay over $98,000 in back taxes and returnover $43,000 in GST refunds she wasn’t qualified to receive. Revenue Canada went after Bergeron after she did not file an income taxrefund for five years. The court was told that from 2000 to 2005 she earnedjust over $391,000 through both Country Charm Cleaning Services andMRB Enterprises, on which she did not pay taxes. She also filed for GSTCredits she was not entitled to claim, said the claim. Revenue Canada has reserved the right to assess additional civil penaltiesat a later date. In a statement Revenue Canada said that the case is an object lesson fortaxpayers. “Individuals who have not filed returns for previous years or who havenot reported all their income can still voluntarily correct their taxes,” aslong as Canada Revenue isn’t prosecuting them, the statement said.

The Seine River School Division is looking into waysto better promote division activities using the internet,specifically social networking sites. At a recent meeting Trustee Theresa Bergsonsuggested that there might be some value to usingsocial networking sites like Facebook to promote theschool division and its activities. “We are not looking for feedback or comments buta way to get information out to people,” Bergsonexplained. The board agreed the social media would be a quickand easy way to get information out to the public.However, there were concerns about how it wouldreflect on the division. The Seine River Board of Trustees decided that theywould look into the matter to see if there is any valueto using social networking. Further information onthe value of advertising through social meeting isbeing gathered to be brought back for furtherdiscussion at a later date.

Niverville SeeksFunding Extension

St. Pierre CleanerGuilty of Tax Evasion

Hanover LaunchesGuard Program

Seine RiverConsiders

SocialNetworking

De SalaberryBeefs UpSecurity

March 2011Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! 23

On February 3, Steinbach RCMP responded to a 2-vehicle collision at the intersection of Road 34 Northand Road 29 East in the RM of Hanover. The police investigation determined that a west-bound minivan failed to stop at a stop sign and strucka southbound pick-up truck. The occupants of theminivan, both in their 80’s, were transported to theBethesda Hospital for treatment. The femalepassenger was then transported to Winnipeg forfurther treatment. She is still in serious condition buther injuries are not considered life threatening. The36-year-old male driver of the pick up truck was alsotransported to the Bethesda hospital for treatment.

On February 27 at 7:40 pm, RCMP in Steinbach responded to a reportthat a snowmobile had collided with a guide wire of a hydro pole at theintersection of PTH 12 and Hanover Road just south of Steinbach. RCMP arrived on scene and determined that a 2010 Arctic Catsnowmobile was traveling north in the ditch next to PTH 12. Near theintersection of Hanover Road the snow machine struck a guide wire froma hydro pole. The passenger of the snow machine, a 48 year old femalefrom Steinbach, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The 43 year olddriver of the snow machine also of Steinbach was transported to theBethesda Hospital for precautionary reasons. He has since been treatedand released. Alcohol was not a factor in the accident. An RCMP Traffic CollisionAnalyst attended and is assisting with the ongoing investigation.

By Marianne Curtis

On February 23 immigrants and newcomersalike were invited to the Steinbach 55 Plus forthe second annual Immigrant and NewcomerEmployment Fair. Eastman Immigrant Services, along with theSteinbach Chamber of Commerce, hosted theevening event with the expectation to connectthose seeking employment with perspectiveemployers. “Making connections for the future” wasthe slogan for this year’s 2nd annualemployment fair, hosted by EastmanImmigrant Services and the SteinbachChamber of Commerce. There were 25 exhibitors and over onehundred perspective employees at the event. Marina Klassen, from Eastman ImmigrantServices, stated that she was very pleasedwith the success of the evening. “People were networking and makingconnections,” Klassen recalled. “Manyemployers left with intentions of contactingthe potential employees.” There was an employer informationsession with a speaker panel that consistedof various employers who spoke on topicsrelated to employer expectations. The secondpart was an employment fair where job-seekerscould converse with local employers that werehiring, and apply for available positions andsubmit their resumes. It was noted that there was a diversity ofbackgrounds and skills found in the peoplewho attended the fair. Nearly half the groupconsisted of immigrants from 17 differentcountries and the remaining 51 percentconsisted of local Canadian citizens.

On the heels of an accident thatinjured two volunteer fire fighters,the RM of Tache has decided topurchase a new set of jaws-of-lifefor the department. Council made the decision tofinancially support the immediate

Traffic AccidentInjures Three

Connections Made at Employment Fair

Over 100 perspective employees gathered at theSteinbach’s 55 Plus Center to find out how they can besuccessful in finding a job.

Tache ReplacesJaws-of-Life

purchase of a replacement jaws-of-life for the department after meetingwith Tache Fire Chief PeterSkjaerlund. At the meeting council was toldthat a malfunctioning issue with theexisting jaws-of -life was cause for

concern. In January two fire fighters were sent tohospital while conducting a rescue after one ofthe hydraulic hoses that operates the jaws-of -liferuptured. Normally the fire department fundraises for sucha purchase but the circumstances surrounding thereplacement demanded immediate action. The RM of Tache council agreed to purchasethe new set on the terms that any money raisedfrom future fundraising goes towards the purchaseand that the assistance be reflected in thedepartment’s yearly budgeted equipmentpurchases.

Fatal Snow MachineAccident in Steinbach

March 2011 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!24