dawson trail dispatch november 2014

By Marianne Curtis

The newly elected RM of La Broquerie Reeve is lookingforward to moving the municipality forward after sneakingin his nomination papers at the last minute, then beatingout two seasoned opponents at the polls. Lewis Weiss, who has never held office before wasconfident from the start that he would be elected fromthe moment he turned in his papers an hour beforenomination deadlines. His last minute bid pitted himagainst veteran Councillor Cornie Goertzen and formeradministrator Larry Tetrault. “I believed that I would win, but you don’t know untilthe day of the election,” Weiss said. “There has beensome issues and that is why people voted the way theydid. Residents want to move forward.” While Weiss was confident, he did not leave anythingto chance. “I went door to door; I talked to people,” Weisscontinued. “Our council wants to do what the ratepayerswant and treat them with respect. One of our goals is tobe proactive and sharing information with thecommunity.”

La Broquerie ReeveWins after “Sneaking”

onto the Ballot

Newly elected La Broquerie Reeve Lewis Weiss says his municipalcouncil will be proactive and work with the people.

Photo by Marianne Curtis

Continued on page 2

By Marianne Curtis

On October 24, the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre inIle des Chênes released its second rehabilitated bald eagleback into the wild this year with the help of retired RitchotMayor Bob Stefaniuk and Provencher MP Ted Falk. The young male eagle, which was found unable to fly inRiverton, Manitoba, was admitted by Manitoba Conservationon August 2. Wildlife Haven’s staff assessed and rehabilitatedthe eagle back to health. The eagle was brought up to a normalweight and flight conditioned over the last few weeks forrelease in time for the fall migration. Provencher MP Ted Falk and Bob Stefaniuk, retired Mayorof the RM of Ritchot were on hand for the official releaseceremony, which occurred on the 18-acre parcel of land thatwill one day house Wildlife Haven’s Wildlife Hospital andEducation Centre.

Fly Like an Eagle

Provencher MP Ted Falk and retired RM of Ritchot Mayor Bob Stefaniuk release a young bald eagle back to the wild just north of Ile des Chênes.

For over 30 years, Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre hasbeen caring for injured and orphaned wildlife from all overManitoba and Northwestern Ontario. The Wildlife HavenRehabilitation Centre is a registered non-profit volunteer basedorganization operating under license with ManitobaConservation and Environment Canada. Its mandate is toreceive and care for injured and orphaned wildlife for releaseback to the wild. The organization also provides and promotes publiceducation in wildlife preservation and conservation with itsEducation Ambassador program. Wildlife, that either sustainedinjuries or suffered circumstances that preclude their releaseback to the wild, are used in Wildlife Haven’s EducationAmbassador Program. Wildlife Haven operates strictly on donations and receivesno government funding.

November 2014 Dawson Trail DispatchMore Than Just News!2

The two biggest issues on the council’s table at themoment are the La Broquerie Arena expansion projectand the need to expand the Town of La Broquerie’slagoon. “Growth is currently being held back until thelagoon is done,” Weiss said. “As for the arena, sincewe took office, the price has already droppedsignificantly.” However, he was unable to clarify this,saying he had not reviewed all the information yet. Weiss noted that while he beat Goertzen in theelection, the RM of La Broquerie council has agreedto let him remain as their liaison with the Seine-RatRiver Conservation District. Goertzen has beeninvolved with the district since its inception andcouncil felt that he was still a valuable member of theteam.

Continued from page 1

Weiss

By Marianne Curtis

Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) isreminding employers to ensure workplaces are safe andemployees are provided the proper procedures toperform their duties, after several businesses wereprosecuted for workplace incidents and fatalities. On October 23, WSH announced that a dozencompanies across the province, including Granny’sPoultry, have been charged under the ManitobaWorkplace Safety and Health Act. The chargesstemmed from a February 23 accident when a workerGranny’s Poultry Cooperative (Manitoba) Ltd. wasinvolved in a workplace incident. According to WSH, the worker was attempting toremove turkeys that had become lodged between aspin-chill tumbler and a conveyor belt. While reachingto dislodge one of the turkeys, the worker’s arm wascaught by a paddle of the rotating tumbler and drawninto the machine. The worker sustained significantcontusions and abrasions to his left arm. On August 25, Granny’s pleaded guilty under section4(2) (b) of the Manitoba Workplace Safety and HealthAct to the charge of failing to provide a worker withinformation, instruction, training, supervision andfacilities, respecting the safe operation of a spin-chilltumbler, and section 2.1.1(a) of the ManitobaWorkplace Safety and Health Act Regulation, M.R. 217/2006 by failing to develop and implement safe workprocedures for the operation of the spin-chill tumbler. The company was ordered to pay $31,300 in finesand surcharges. When a workplace incident occurs, ManitobaWorkplace Safety and Health investigates and canrecommend prosecution if it is determined the employerdid not have appropriate safeguards in place or did notimplement legislated requirements, or that employeeshad not been properly trained. Employers are reminded that when a serious incidentoccurs, they are required to notify WSH immediately,by the fastest means available and ensure the sceneremains undisturbed until otherwise directed.

Granny’s Poultry Chargedin Workplace Accident

continued...

Dawson Trail Dispatch More Than Just News! November 2014 3

By Marianne Curtis

History was made when RM ofRitchot residents when they markedtheir ballots to vote for a new mayor.Once the ballots were counted,Jackie Hunt officially became thefirst woman to sit as mayor or reevewithin the municipality. “I didn’t really even think aboutthe fact that I would be the firstwoman Mayor in Ritchot,” saidHunt. “We have had women oncouncil for decades and I hope that

RM of Ritchot WelcomesFirst Female Mayor

Newly elected RM of Ritchot Mayor Jackie Hunt made history by becoming the first femalemayor in the municipality.


trend continues, regardless of therole they play.” Hunt first joined the RM of Ritchotfour years ago as a councillor, thenserved as Deputy Mayor. Shedecided to run as mayor after BobStefaniuk retired from politicsinstead of seeking reelection. Now that the job is hers, Hunt isexcited to take the reins of thegrowing municipality and makeimprovements for the betterment ofthe entire area. “I love this municipality and I am

working hard to ensure that wecontinue to grow and prosper. Dowe get it right every time? No, but Ican assure you we always arethoughtful in our decisions,” Huntcontinued. “This is a job that youcan’t learn in school or by reading abook. It’s trial and error. I love whenwe get it right and hope we learn ourlessons when we don’t.” “Over the past four years we haveseen our population grow at a rapidpace and as a result, we haveincreased our response to the needsof our residents,” Hunt noted. This includes making recreationand economic development apriority, engaging in long-termplanning, addressing infrastructurerequirements, such as lagoonupgrades, road reconstruction,recreation amenities and providingfunding to our volunteer boards tohelp maintain our arenas andcommunity clubs,” she added.

The Ritchot Regional Chamber of Commerce is excited to be hostingtheir first Chamber gala event at the end of November. According to Roger Perron, Chamber of Commerce Secretary, theorganization is thrilled to be hosting their first formal function. “This is the first large event that our Chamber has hosted,” explainedPerron. “We will be honouring Bob Stefaniuk for his nineteen years ofservice with the Municipality of Ritchot, the majority being the Mayor.” Proceeds from the event will be going to the Wildlife Haven RehabilitationCentre. The local organization recently launched a capital fundraisingplan that will see a new wildlife hospital, rehabilitation and educationcentre built on the north side of Ile des Chênes. The event is taking place on Saturday, November 22, in the TransCanadaCentre in Ile des Chênes. Tickets are available in Ste Agathe at the SteAgathe Service Centre, in St. Adolphe at the Municipality of Ritchot officeand in Ile des Chênes, at the TransCanada Centre office in the afternoonMonday - Friday. Tickets are $75 each or a table of 10 for $750. Contact Roger Perron at [email protected] or call 204-899-0035for more information.

By Marianne Curtis

Getting your flu shot will be easier this year in Manitoba. The Manitoba government recently announced a new flu campaign,offering more locations and pharmacies where you can get immunized,along with at the doctors’ office. Only 20 to 25 per cent of Manitobans get their flu shot each year. Dr.Michael Routledge, the Chief Provincial Public Health Officer, hopes thatall groups at risk of infection will be vaccinated. “We used to really focus on high risk and we still do, but now with thisuniversal program we’re trying to really make it available for everybody,”he said. More than 530 pharmacists are certified to administer the vaccine inManitoba and it will be available at 240 pharmacies across the province.There are five new ACCESS centres and four QuickCare clinics that will beopen for service. Details on locations are available online. “The flu can spread easily from one person to another through coughing,sneezing, or by touching objects contaminated with the flu virus,” addedRoutledge. The flu vaccine is free of charge to all Manitobans older than six months.The groups most at risk of the flu are seniors age 65 and older, residents oflong-term care and personal care facilities, health care workers, firstresponders, children under five, aboriginal people, people with chronicillness, overweight and obese people and pregnant women. This year, Manitoba children and adolescents two to 17 years of age areeligible to receive publicly funded live attenuated influenza vaccine(FluMist), provided they do not have any contraindications. The nasalspray is as effective as the injection. Manitobans over the age of 65 should also get a pneumococcal vaccineat the same time as the seasonal flu vaccine. The pneumococcal vaccinehelps protect against pneumococcal disease, including a serious type ofpneumonia, blood infections and meningitis. Most adults only need onepneumococcal vaccine in their lifetime. Anyone wishing to be immunized by their pharmacist should call inadvance to make an appointment. Pharmacists can administer vaccines topatients seven years of age and older.

Chamber Gala toHonour FormerRitchot Mayor

Getting Flu ShotsEasier this Year


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, Dave MillarProduction/Design: Dan Guetre, Myriam Dyck,

Monica Guetre and Wilma PriebeAdvertising: Karen Jorgenson and Dan Guetre

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

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

Serving the communities along the historic Dawson Trail and beyond.

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

Canada Post AgreementNumber 42079020

I recently celebrated 15 years asan NDP MLA at the Trans CanadaCentre in Île-des-Chênes,alongside family, friends andcolleagues. I want to thankeveryone for coming out and formaking this celebration a specialone. Your support over the past 15years means a lot to me. I have learned at least one thingas MLA over the last 15 years andthat’s the importance of family andcommunity. Together, we have builtand strengthened our communitiesand I am proud of that. But, there isalways more we can do. To do that,though, cooperation is key. Working for families in DawsonTrail isn’t a one-man job. It takesfamilies and community leaderscooperating to get the work done.That’s what we’ve done and that’swhat we will continue to do. I continue to enjoy serving as theMLA for Dawson Trail, keepingactive and connected, to build evenbetter places to live, to strengthenour infrastructure and a growingeconomy, to deliver services asefficiently as possible and toprovide better opportunities for ourkids and grandchildren – and all thatfor a brighter future for allManitobans, for Dawson Trailfamilies.

Dawson Trail Families

Stand with All Canadians.

My thoughts and prayers are withthe family and friends of soldier Cpl.Nathan Cirillo, 24, tragically killedin Ottawa on October 22, 2014. Asour flags flew at half-mast in ourcommunities, families in DawsonTrail joined all Canadians tocommend and thank the firstresponders, police officers andsecurity personnel who putthemselves in harm’s way. As westruggle to make sense of these

In the past couple of weeksCanada as suffered the ignominyof two terrorist attacks. The shocksof these sad murderous acts havewrenched us out of our naiveCanadian complacency into ashocked and angry mood. As anex-military person, I and others likemyself are definitely the ones in anugly foul mood. But, all democratsshould share our wound and pain.As we attend the RemembranceDay parades and reflect on thosewho died for our values and gaveus our rights to lofty ambitions, wemay try to square this with thelatest acts of terrorism, yet know itwill not square easily. We, theCanadian communities are the oneswho should have assumed theprivilege of standing guard;however, this has become anindelible stain of shame on us all.We have a right to be in a foulmood. We also have been told latelythat 80 or 90 ‘Jihadists’ are at largein Canadian communities andknown to Canadian authorities.After hearing the RCMP confessthat the second terrorist at theParliament Hill was not on theirradar, 80 or 90 potential terrorist islikely a very conservative number.It definitely should be a pre-requisite that the Imams instructingthese future terrorist be madeaccountable now. Should weCanadians lose some collectivetemporary liberty for the greatergood of rounding up the garbage,if need be, so be it. It’s a small priceto pay.

Lest We Forget The question on everybody’smind is why aren’t these fanaticsin custody for conspiracy tocommit terrorist acts, conspiracyto murder and numerous othercriminal code violations. The nextquestion that I find inexplicable isthe anti terrorist laws enacted after9-11 was allowed for a time toelapse put back in force, but notused. Why? Are we not still at warwith terrorism? How many of us remember whena certain Prime Minister invokedthe ‘War Measures Act’ and thefamous line, “Well, just watch me.”It was a time when leadership wasnecessary and that mantle wasaccepted. Compared to the presentwe have closet hiding andcringing, as our only foot forward.This is an unforgivable let down. The biggest impediment todefinitive action seems to be thefear of being labelled politicallyincorrect. We keep hearing thatIslam is a religion of peace. Wellsince 2001, there have been over2,000 terrorist acts by Islamicpeople in the world. This is makingthe meaning of peaceful very hardto digest. To say that Christianityor Judaism has not always beenreligions of peace is accurate andnot considered politicallyincorrect, it is reality. There aremany times history has recordedtheir shame. Not all were badapples but enough to embarrassthe rest. So, why when we take in, the ongoings in Syria, Iraq, Lybia,Yeman, Somalia, Nigeria, Mali ect.,

ect., couple this with terrorist actsby the same ilk in America,England, France, AustraliaCanada, I could go on and onwith geography in everycontinent. Do these cowardlyfacts become unacceptable tomention out loud? This worldwide murderousactivity should not leave anyniggling doubts about thesesupposedly peaceful intensions.Honest questions and answerson this reality should be the onlyacceptable course of action. Notall Muslim are bad apples, still tosay none are, is an unacceptableand dangerous lie. Within two years of the ArabianSpring with the exception ofTunisian and Indonesia all othermiddle-east Muslim countries

that had a glimpse ofenlightenment has sinceadumbrated the unbelievablesectarian violence. This is millionsof people resorting to violence. Isit politically incorrect to point outthe truth? Would it not instead bedangerous to be ‘politicallycorrect’ and then be in partresponsible for the subsequentcasualties? In our country all should besubservient to democracy thisincludes all religions and allideologies. This is our birthright. We have had two recentcasualties both in uniform andunarmed as is our armed forcescustom when on ‘civvy streets’ inCanada that comes from a wellearned and long peaceful tradition.They were murdered by two home-

grown, recent Islam converts. So, why is it we not removingthese terrorists off our street andneighbourhoods again? If anybodyis offended by this, so be it.Lest we forget, this is the time fordecisive action. We should not apologize for ourtraditions, nor should we letanybody change them. Immigration,yes absolutely, within the best rulesin the world.

Celebrating 15 Years as MLAtragic events at the heart of ournation’s democracy, families inDawson Trail stand with allCanadians, united in our sadness,strength and resilience.

Calling All Beer Lovers

In my role as Minister of Tourism,Culture, Heritage, Sport andConsumer Protection, responsiblefor Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries, Ihad the pleasure to launch in-storeGrowler Bars at five Liquor Martsand two beer vendor locations.Commonly found at breweries andbrewpubs across North America,growlers are becoming anincreasingly popular way to enjoycraft beer.It’s no secret that Manitobans arebeer enthusiasts. Our government isa strong supporter of our localbrewers and the introduction ofGrowler Bars to the marketplaceprovides Manitobans with a newway to enjoy some fantastic craftbeers. What is a growler? A growler is arefillable 1.89L/64oz container oftensold by breweries or brewpubs socustomers can enjoy freshly bottledcraft beer at home. For the duration of the six-monthpilot, Growler Bars will offer both coreand seasonal listings from localbrewers, Fort Garry and Half Pints.Currently on tap at Growler Bars areFort Garry’s Das MunchenOktoberfest and Fort Gilbraltar andHalf Pints’ Punk’n’Fest (Winnipeg),Bull Dog Amber Ale (Brandon) andLittle Scrapper IPA. To see what’s on tap at localGrowler Bars, Manitobans areencouraged to visit liquormarts.ca.

Help Us Plan the Next

Provincial Budget

Our government is hosting a seriesof meetings across the province to

hear what Manitobans have to sayabout the next provincial budget.What do you think are the challengesand opportunities facing Manitobafamilies? Families in Dawson Trail can sharetheir ideas at the Lorette Parish Hall,1282 Dawson Road (7 - 8:30 pm) onWednesday, November 12, 2014.Please pre-register by calling theMinister of Finance’s office at 204-945-3952. For more information,please call 1-866-Manitoba (1-866-626-4862).

2014 Municipal Elections

I would like to extend my sincerestcongratulations to all newly electedmayors, councillors, and schooltrustees in the Dawson Trail area andI wish them the best of success incarrying out their duties andresponsibilities. I would also like toextend my sincerest appreciation toall previous council members andschool board trustees for theircommunity service over the years. Together, always moving forward,we have built even better places tolive, work, and play. As always, I appreciate hearingyour comments and thoughts onthese and other provincialinitiatives. I encourage you tocontact me by e-mail,[email protected], byphone 204-878-4644 or by mail atBox 517, Lorette, MB R0A 0Y0.Together we can continue to moveDawson Trail and Manitobaforward.


It was one of the most telling and perhaps memorable moments of thedebate over the NDP’s increase of the PST from 7% to 8%. Following acommittee meeting where Manitobans came to voice their displeasurewith the increase, Dawson Trail MLA, Ron Lemieux, referred to thosewho were opposed to the PST increase as “howling coyotes.” The comment was telling because it reflected much of what NDP MLAsfelt about the opposition to the sales tax increase. Despite the fact thatthey had broken an election promise not to raise taxes and were strippingaway a legal right to a public referendum on the PST increase, NDPmembers of the Legislature showed little respect for members of thepublic who opposed the move.

Dear Editor: I read with amazement, Ron Lemieux’sOctober column ‘Report from the Leg-islature’. In it, he claims that for a mere $3 mil-lion that he was able to create 50 newjobs, replace or repair in excess of 96km’s of municipal roads in the easternarea. I will assume this also includes thecost of the materials and paying con-tractors to perform the work. I tried towrap my head around this piece of fi-nancial wizardry. Pinching myself tomake sure it was still 2014 and not 1950.I got to thinking that using your math,Mr. Lemieux, Manitoba should be ableto pave the Trans-Canada highway tothe Ontario border, a distance of about150 kms times two because it is atwinned highway, for a total of 300 km’sfor $9 million and the creation of 150new jobs. Then I realized that I had themakings of a migraine headache on theway. I then thought of the $1.5 billion Bi-pole III project, which increased to $2billion, which has now increased to $4.6billion, mainly because more expensiveold technology is being used we are told.I suspect when this project is completedthat the costs may range up to $19 bil-lion and the line will terminate in PuertoRico. Then I pulled together the painfulmemories of the floodway expansionproject. It was way over budget sixmonths into the work, a new bridge wasdemolished, support piers and all, onlyto build a new, new bridge, although thismay have been the fault of GaryFilmon’s great- great grandparents, ac-cording to the NDP. A planned twinnedbridge on Highway 15 disappeared, onlyto reappear as a three-lane bridge whenmoney miraculously was found to fundit. The pièce de résistance was when thefloodway expansion was completed; theNDP declared that it was done on bud-get. In recent good news, as told by RonLemieux, $115 million from the $300million PST hike somehow became $844million, which increased the economyand exports to the tune of $1.7 billion.If your head is, spinning it could be be-cause of the excess spin-doctors em-ployed by the province, well over 115at last count, or is it 844, or 1,700... I suppose that this is a lesson in NDPtax accounting 101. Now if you excuseme, I have created a new job, oops, Imean a new task to do. Where is theaspirin?David A SutherlandLandmark, MB

Dear Editor: On behalf of The War Amps, I would like to thank you for your article on Ste. Agathe resident Kyle Nordick(September 31), a Junior Counsellor at our recent Western Child Amputee (CHAMP) Seminar. The War Amps philosophy is “amputees helping amputees”. Junior Counsellors, who have gone through ourprograms, speak to the younger amputees on subjects such as keeping active, positive body image, driving,employment and how to handle teasing and staring. Through CHAMP, young amputees are encouraged todevelop a positive attitude towards their amputation and live to their full potential. Coverage like yours certainly helps to inform the public of the resources and programs available to childamputees. The War Amps receives no government grants and its programs are possible through public support ofour Key Tag and Address Label Service. Your coverage will go a long way in helping to spread the word.Sincerely,Danita Chisholm,Executive Director, CHAMP ProgramOttawa, ON

It was all the NDP MLAs who went door to door in the 2011 Electionand Promised “No Tax Increases.” It was all the NDP MLAs who voted for the 2012 Budget that hadrecord tax increases, and for expanding the PST to include home insuranceand even haircuts. In the 2013 Budget, it was all the NDP MLAs who voted to increase thePST from 7% to 8%. In the last week of October 2014 immediately after municipal elections,there have been several NDP cabinet ministers who have come out andtried to unload all the blame for the PST tax increases on the Premier.Several ministers have come out and questioned whether the currentPremier is capable of leading this province. The NDP government has fostered a culture of blame placing. Blamingthe Federal Government, blaming Mother Nature and even blaming theFilmon Government from the 1990’s for their own NDP failures. We now have a dysfunctional NDP team that’s blaming its leader. It isnot just the leader; it is every NDP team member that shares theresponsibility for the failures of this NDP government. While NDP cabinet

On Wednesday October 22, Canadians were shocked by the eventsthat shook the foundation of our nation’s capital. With the unfortunateshooting of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo and having a gunman storm the halls ofParliament Hill, it was unfolding to be a frightening day in Ottawa. At the moment of the attack, I was in the Conservative Party’s caucusmeeting as the Prime Minister was speaking. I heard five or six loudpopping sounds from the other side of the caucus room door. It tookeveryone in the room several seconds to realize what we had heard;however, there was no mistaking the sound of gunfire. The originalburst was followed by an additional forty or fifty rounds. It was a surreal scene that unfolded in front of us as a gunman exchangedgunfire with security officers in Parliament’s Centre Block. Fortunately, a number of our Conservative MPs were former policeofficers and were able to act quickly to secure the room. MPs weredirected to help stack chairs against the doors. It was very interesting tosee the instincts of these former officers kick in immediately. At that point, we still had no idea what was happening. Thoughtsraced through my mind, how many shooters were there? The PrimeMinister is in the room with us, is he the target? Is this a coordinatedattack and if so, what other attacks were simultaneously occurring acrossthe country? Waiting in the caucus room, not knowing the scope of the attack wasmost unsettling. Since MPs were instructed not to communicate usingtheir electronic devices, I made no attempts to comment on social mediauntil much later in the day, when it was safe to do so. This securitymeasure was in place so we would not divulge our location within centreblock. I did however contact my family and staff to let them know that Iwas safe. After approximately fifteen minutes, the Prime Minister was moved toan undisclosed location and the Sergeant-at-Arms, Kevin Vickers, enteredthe room to notify MPs what had transpired in the hallway. He statedthat he had taken down the gunman in front of the Library of Parliament.However, it was still unclear if there were other gunmen.

A Sad Day in Our Nation’s Capital We spent the following 10 hours gathered together in the caucus roomawaiting further instructions. Finally, at approximately 8 pm, we were whiskedaway to another location where the Prime Minister briefed us on the situation.We decided as a caucus that our government would not be intimidated bythis act of violence and terrorism and decided to open the House at 10 amthe next day us usual. Upon returning to work in the morning, bullet holes could be seen in theHall of Honour. It was a sober reminder of what had happened and a reminderthat Parliament will forever bechanged. As the Member of Parliamentfor Provencher, I want to extendmy thoughts and prayers to thefamily of our fallen soldier, Cpl.Nathan Cirillo, who was shot andkilled by the gunman whilestanding on guard at the NationalWar Memorial. Let us neverforget the sacrifice that many ofour Military personnel make in service of our great country. I am incredibly thankful for the security and police personnel whoresponded so quickly and effectively to this situation. Their brave actionslikely saved countless lives. Through this tragedy, we can all truly appreciatewhat these men and women do for our communities and our country. While the peace we often take for granted in our nation may have beentemporarily shaken, we will persevere. Canada will not be intimidated andthis will only strengthen our resolve. We will come out of this stronger andunited. May God keep our land, glorious and free. You may contact my office toll free at 1-866-333-1933 or at 204-326-9889. You may also write my office at 8-227 Main Street, Steinbach, MBR5G 1Y7, e-mail me at [email protected] or visit my website attedfalk.ca.

The Sinking Shipministers have been self-absorbed in blame placing, they have not beenfocused on the needs of Manitobans. They have not been working to make health care better. The Vita ER hasbeen closed for over two years. The Whitemouth Clinic does not have adoctor. Time and time again, the Health Minister has made promises to fixthese problems, but the HealthMinister is too busy blaming thePremier for all their failures. Will theHealth Minister stand up, take theblame for her department, and putManitobans first? We all know that a team cannot bea winning team if they don’t play asone. It is not just the leader; it is everyNDP team member that shares theresponsibility for the failures of thisNDP government. While the NDP squabble, Manitobans suffer. It is time the NDP pulled the plug on itself and call an election, and letManitobans decide who should lead this province. It time for a change. I look forward to hearing from you with any questions or concerns. I canbe reached at my constituency office at 204-424-5406, at my Legislativeoffice at 204-945-4339, and at [email protected].

Who’s Howling Now? At various times during the debate, NDP MLAs said that those who wereconcerned were just Conservative supporters. Other NDP members saidthat within a few months everyone would forget about the increase and thefact the government had lied to them in the election. It was much ado aboutnothing NDP members felt. Since the PST increase, which came into effect last summer, NDP Minister’sand MLAs have continued to defend the increase. After all, each of themvoted in favour of it, despite having months to hear the concerns from theirown constituents. Not a single NDP MLA stood up for their constituentsand voted against the PST increase. All of that made it strange to see the NDP Cabinet mutiny against theirleader Greg Selinger last month. One after another, NDP MLAs startedappearing to say that it was Mr.Selinger who was really responsiblefor the PST increase and he shouldquit. Again, this is despite the fact thatevery NDP MLA, under their ownstrength and using their own legs,stood to vote in favour of the PSTincrease. And, now they want toblame it all on Mr. Selinger? The fact is each NDP MLA has to take responsibility for their individualactions. If they believe that Mr. Selinger has lost the faith of the publicbecause he voted for the PST increase then each NDP MLA has lost thatfaith as well. Of course it’s obvious to anyone watching that the only thing that hascaused this sudden change of position by NDP members is they are downin the polls and they are worried about losing their jobs. It’s not aboutManitobans. It never has been. So, they have decided to fight each other, asManitobans ask, who’s howling now? I appreciate your comments and concerns. If you have any comments onthese or other issues, you can contact me by writing, #3 – 227 Main Street,Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y7, by phone at 204-326-5763, by fax at 204-346-9913, by e-mail at [email protected] or by visiting my websiteat kelvingoertzen.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

How Do YouSpin It?

Thank You for Helping to Spread the Word


By Marianne Curtis

A La Broquerie photographer andpainter has gone back in time andwith the help of local animals andresidents re-imagined a Nativityscene painted in the style ofRembrandt. Last winter, Lynda Toews and herhusband Gary were brainstormingfor ideas on what she could put tocanvas when the idea came to takeadvantage of her love for paintingfarm animals and celebrate her faith. “I grew up in the city and when wemoved here four years ago, I noticedan abundance of farm animals so Istarted to photograph them,” Toewsexplained. “Animals are fascinatingto photograph and to paint. I preferto paint from photos that I tookmyself and sometimes I use severalphotographs to complete apainting.” Wanting to try something different,Toews decided to pay tribute to themost celebrated story in the Bible,the birth of Jesus. “We started to researchconventional Nativity art andtogether we arrived at a new vision.We decided to focus attention onthe very humble and usuallyinvisible Joseph,” Toews continued.With an idea in mind, Toews spentthree months recreating the scene,including purchasing sheets fromthe thrift store and creating periodcostumes for her models. “Since I paint my ownphotographs, we invited severalpeople from our church to come posefor a photo wearing these costumesand set a lamp in the middle of ourliving room to achieve all the desiredlighting effects,” Toews continued.“I also visited nearby hobby farmsto get some of the animal photos Ineeded.” The actual painting took severalweeks to complete. The finishedpiece, titled The Commitment,focuses on Joseph’s commitment toraise a child that was not his own. Italso shows the commitmentsbetween husband and wife,grandfather and grandson,

By Marianne Curtis

Forty-eight men and women curling teams will converge upon thecommunities of Morris and Rosenort near the end of November for theprestigious DEKALB SuperSpiel. For the past six years, the DEKALB SuperSpiel has hosted 16 top calibrewomen and men’s curling teams in Morris. The four day SuperSpiel whichis presented by Meridian, Rocky Mountain Equipment and the Town ofMorris, is taking place November 20 - 24. This year, due to overwhelming support for the spiel from the women’steams and a lengthy waiting list, the event was expanded to nearbyRosenort, allowing the event to accommodate 48 teams - 32 women and 16men. The event will now be held at the Morris Curling Club November 20- 24 and at the Rosenort Arena on November 21 and 22. Reeve Ralph Groening of the RM of Morris is thrilled with the eventscontinued success and the expansion to Rosenort. “This is exciting news for the municipality and gives us the opportunityto showcase the RM, the Rosenort arena and the sport of curling to theworld,” said Groening. Thirty-two women’s teams also increases the value of the CTRS Pointsfor teams hoping to qualify for the 2018 Olympics. Team Jennifer Jones,Canada’s 2014 Olympic Gold Medalist and many other award winningcurlers are expected to participate in the event. World Class Ice maker Greg Ewasko will provide 4 sheets of Olympicquality ice for the teams. The prize money, subject to full entry will increase to $40,000 for thewomen and $30,000 for the men, bringing the total DEKALB SuperSpielpurse to $70,000.

La Broquerie Artist CreatesMasterpiece Using Local Models

Toews invited several church members to pose for a photograph, which then became thebasis for the masterpiece, including former Hanover School Division Superintendent JohnPeters who posed as Joseph.

shepherd and flock, and the ewe andlamb. Toews points out other detailssuch as the dorsal stripe on thedonkey’s back that forms the shapeof a cross, pointing to the babyJesus, foreshadowing his ride on adonkey into Jerusalem. Toews will be displaying theoriginal piece, along with otherpieces at the Mennonite HeritageVillage Christmas Craft Sale on

Saturday, November 15, theSoutheast Artist Group show atClearspring Centre on Saturday,November 29 and the Steinbach ArtsCouncil WSO Christmas concert onTuesday, December 2. A limited edition of prints and cardsfeaturing The Commitment areavailable for purchase at theseevents and several locationsthroughout Steinbach.

La Broquerie artist Lynda Toews painted this beautiful piece, called The Commitment, whichpays tribute to Joseph. Photo by Marianne Curtis

Team Jennifer JonesExpected to Play inMorris SuperSpiel

The RM of Piney would like to warnresidents that they have hired an AnimalControl Officer to help curtail any dogissues within the municipality on a feefor service basis. A procedure has beenput in place in regards to use andguidelines when sending out the Officeron a call. Complaints are to be issued to the RMOffice by phone, letter, fax, or email. All complaints being made in theevenings, weekends or holidays are tobe issued to any one of the Councilmembers or Reeve by telephone. If you have any questions or concernsin regards to this matter, please give themunicipal office a call at 204-437-2284or 204-437-2060.

The Town of Ste. Anne has beengranted approval for funding fromthe Municipal Bridge Program toreplace the historical bridge alongFinnegan Road. According to a provincialannouncement made at the end ofOctober, the Manitoba governmenthas granted $70,738 for preliminaryengineering and replacement of theexisting Piney Bridge with culvertson Finnegan Road. The Piney Bridge, which was builtin 1921, was torn down a year agoand the road remains closed. Prior tothe historic bridge’s removal, it wasclosed to traffic for three years aftersustaining significant damageduring previous year’s flooding. Itwould have cost the Town of Ste.Anne $1 million to repair thestructure, or $300,000 to installculverts. They chose the least costlyoption.

Ste. Anne WaterCrossing Gets Funded

Thirteen projects will share acombined $1.14 million for municipalbridge replacement or improvement. The Municipal Bridge Programprovides 50 percent cost-sharedfunding for major municipal bridgerenewal and rehabilitation projects,including the cost of preliminary anddetailed design, and pre-engineering studies. This programis delivered in partnership with theAssociation of ManitobaMunicipalities (AMM) andprovincial funding is providedthrough the Building ManitobaFund.

Piney HiresAnimal Control


By Marianne Curtis

From the moment, you pass through the front gates of the newly opened Kelburn EstatesHealth and Wellness Retreat, one feels like they have been transported into a peacefulparadise. This is exactly why founder Josephine D’Andrea chose this location to realize herdream - to provide a top-notch treatment centre for people struggling with mental healthissues and substance abuse. Located near St. Adolphe, Kelburn Estates Health & Wellness Retreat provides a uniqueintensive 28, 45 and 60-day residential recovery program for first responders and professionalmale and female adults. Kelburn programs focus on the nature of substance abuse andaddictive behaviours as well as the effects on the brain, brain trauma, occurring disordersand their management such as posttraumatic stress syndrome. “From the minute you walk through our doors, we want you to be at home. We want youto participate, we never want you to disconnect,” explained D’Andrea. “We offer a recoveryprogram that takes you from the front door forward.” D’Andrea said the facility has been a dream of hers for a number of years. After watchingher son struggle with addictions, she realized there was no one size fits all treatment programsfor people struggling with mental health issues. “When you are trying to help someone you love, you see what the needs are and whereservices are lacking. I knew as a mother what needed to be done and since I could not findit, I created it,” D’Andrea said. “The addiction is only twenty-percent of the issue; we arehere to treat all the problems.” D’Andrea explained that she handpicked her staff to match that vision also. “I had a vision on what’s needed and looked for people that had those strengths; they fittogether like a jigsaw puzzle,” she added. “We put together all the components that will takeyou into the future.” Kelburn Retreat consists of a 10,000 square foot former private residence that has beenfurnished and prepared for ten guests at a time. Added amenities include an Olympic-sizeIndoor swimming pool, sauna and a games room. The site even boasts a 9 and 18-holeexecutive golf course. The facility is expected to be a place where employers, insurers and Employee AssistancePrograms can send clients. A 30-day stay costs $16,200, which can be covered through avariety of methods, including special financing rates through specific credit cards.

Wellness Retreat OffersRecovery in St. Adolphe

Kelburn Estates Health and Wellness Retreat founder Josephine D’Andrea (centre) gives a tour of the newlyopened facility to a pair of supporters.


As October 21, all thirteen rural cancer hubs, including the one in Steinbach are open andoperational. The official opening of the Steinbach cancer hub is expected to bring fasteraccess to cancer treatment closer to home for families. Southern Health CEO Kathy McPhail said the opening of the Steinbach hub would have atremendous impact on the region. “This second hub in our region will have a tremendous impact,” said McPhail.“Transforming the patient’s journey aligns with our mandate to enhance the patient experienceand to attain standards of excellence.” Community and regional cancer hubs offer enhanced co-ordinated care. The Cancer Navigation Services team provides services in the Steinbach and surroundingcommunities that is based on the Bethesda Campus in Steinbach. Services include a full-time nurse navigator, a psychosocial oncology clinician and a family physician with a specialtyin oncology, a community liaison and a clerk. This supports enhanced access to CancerCareManitoba expertise for patients and healthcare providers across the region. “The opening of the Steinbach hub is bringing faster access to cancer treatment closer tohome for families,” said Health Minister Erin Selby. “This new hub fulfils our commitment toexpand rural chemotherapy sites into cancer hubs across the province. These hubs aremaking a real difference for Manitoba families.” All front-line staff will receive training from CancerCare Manitoba and will support patientsat critical points throughout their treatment. The experts who staff cancer hubs will work with local healthcare providers and patientnavigators to co-ordinate quick diagnosis, treatment and follow up for patients.

Regional Cancer Hub Open


Near the end of last month, I happened to seesome of that white stuff that falls from the skyand occasionally blows around. Since I’m still indenial that our summer may be over and I reallydon’t want to discuss the white rain-like stuffthat I saw, I figured that there would be no bettertime than now to pass on a few Halloween themedjokes. Enjoy!

Why didn’t the little skeleton go to see the scary movie? He didn’t have the guts!Why did the skeleton cross the road? To go to the body shop!What can’t you give the headless horseman? A headache!Where do ghosts go to have fun? To the boo-vies!Why do ghosts shiver and moan? It’s drafty under that sheet!What’s it called when a vampire has trouble with his house? A grave problem!How does a girl vampire flirt? She bats her eyes!Why did the handsome vampire need mouthwash? Because he had bat breath!Why was the mummy so tense? Because he was all wound up! Here are a few jokes for all those zombie lovers out there.What is a zombie’s favourite game? Chase!What did the zombie say to his date? I just love a woman with BRAAAINS!What did one zombie say to the other zombie while they were eating a comedian?This tastes funny!What is black, white and dead all over? A zombie in a tuxedo! It wouldn’t be Halloween without a werewolf or two.What happens if you cross a werewolf with a sheep? You have to get a new sheep!When a werewolf goes to the movies where does he sit? Anywhere he wants to!What does it mean if there’s a werewolf in your fridge in the morning? You had someparty last night! I hope everyone had a safe, fun-filled Halloween with plenty of treats and only afew tricks. Remember, if anyone asks, just tell them that I used to be a werewolf butI’m alright noooooooooow! Until next time, take care and keep your world spinning.

Halloween Humour

On November 18, Marianne CurtisAmazon bestselling author andhead writer for the Dawson TrailDispatch will officially launch herthird full-length book called Rae ofHope: Stories from Survivors at theJake Epp Library in Steinbach. Rae of Hope: Stories fromSurvivors is a collection of realstories, written by real people whohave suffered at the hands of bullies.In each story, contributors dug deepinto their own painful memories andvulnerably exposed their horrorswith the hope that their survival willinspire others to fight. “When the province proposed Bill18 last year, I considered sharing mybullying story publicly for the firsttime. As I pondered going public, Ireceived hundreds of letters ofsupport from people thanking me forbeing courageous and giving thema voice,” stated Curtis. “That waswhen I realized that I needed to helpthose silenced by their abusers, andhelp others share their stories. Bysharing our stories, we take back ourpower and are no longer victims.” Rae of Hope includescontributions from across Canada,the United States and the UnitedKingdom. There are stories by LeahParsons, whose daughter “Heather”

Locally Authored Book Spotlights Survivors of Bullying

Ile-des-Chênes author Marianne Curtis’spersonal bullying survival story, along withthose of almost two dozen other survivorsfrom three different countries are featured inRae of Hope: Stories from Survivors.

committed suicide in Nova Scotia, Evan Wiens, whofought successfully for a gay-straight alliance in theSteinbach Regional high School (SRSS) and CandaceMaxymowich, who was subjected to social mediabullying at an international level during the recent civicelection. Gina Dickason, founder of Families Impacted byBullying (FIBB) in Calgary shares her daughter Jade’sstory publicly for the first time in this unique volume. “Working on Jade’s story was emotionally draining,lots of tears and stirring up lots of feelings. I know tosome degree this is therapeutic, but our girl is still livingwith the aftermath of what happened to her,” explainedDickason. “Her story, like other victims of bullying needsto be told and heard. As difficult as it is, we are trulygrateful to Marianne for giving us this opportunity, inthe hope that it will prevent tragedies happening toothers.” Along with real stories, Rae of Hope: Stories fromSurvivors includes vital information that could helpreaders identify and stop bullying in their home orcommunity. An official book launch is taking place at Jake EppLibrary in Steinbach on November 18, 2014 at 7 pm. Therewill be a number of special guests, including some ofthe contributors. The author is encouraging attendeesto wear blue in support of the Stop Bullying message.

Rae of Hope: Stories from Survivors will be released worldwide on Amazon, Kobo andBarnes and Noble at the start of Bullying Awareness Week, which runs from November 16- 22. To order your signed copy directly from the author visitemeraldpublications.wordpress.com or call Marianne at 204-794-1207.

On October 21 at approximately9:30 pm, St. Pierre-Jolys RCMPreceived a report of a motor vehiclethat had struck a pedestrian onHighway #59 just north of theintersection of Highway 23 in theRM of De Salaberry. A black 2009 Chevrolet Malibutravelling southbound on Highway59, struck a pedestrian standing inthe middle of the road, just north ofHighway 23. The pedestrian, a 30-year-old malefrom St. Malo, was pronounceddeceased at the scene. The two occupants of theChevrolet Malibu, a 32-year-oldfemale and a 16-year-old female, bothfrom St. Pierre-Jolys, were notinjured.

RCMPInvestigatePedestrian

Killed by Car


On Tuesday, December 2, one of the five featured concerts in our seasonticket package is The Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra! An annual holidayfavourite – classical and contemporary music that the whole family willenjoy! Adults $24 and Students $12. SPECIALS! 4 for $54, $6 Music students.Business owners – treat 5 or more staff members, for the $15 corporatespecial! Call now. Grades 5 & 6 ‘Who wants to Conduct the Symphony?’ contest! In ashort paragraph of a few lines, let the Steinbach Arts Council know whyYOU would like to conduct the Symphony and be entered to win theopportunity to conduct the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra! The winnerwill also receive tickets for their whole family to attend the show.

Season Tix Make The Perfect Gift! There are still great seats available for the season package of 5 incredibleshows! This is a time to call up your friends and have those regular ‘datenights’, or, give the package as a gift, that keeps on giving. Call the officeand put it on your card – Christmas shopping is done! Manitoba Theatre Centre - Armstrong’s War, on Tuesday, February 17;Cadence – Unplugged, 4 voices, Monday, March 23; Messiah withCanzona, WSO players and a regional choir of local singers and a communitymusical – Anne of Green Gables on Friday, May 1. Added Attractions include (SAC members get 10% off these addedattractions) Family show – Munsch Upon a Time by Prairie Theatre Exchange, onFriday January 16 at the SRSS. Piano Violin Fusion Fundraiser – Roy and Rosemary – on Wednesday,March 4. Season Ticket holders get 15% off The Roy & Rosemary event.Calling All Violin Lovers! Join our Friday Night Violin group program workshops. SAC is invitingall violin players from the region, all ages and levels, to come and playtogether with other violinists. Faith Fehr will be facilitating these programson Fridays: November 7, November 24 & December 5. The 4 - 8 year oldswill play together from 6:45 – 7:15pm and the 9 - 14 year olds from 7:30 – 8pm. Open recital for everyone on the December 5 evening – fun and food,too! The cost is $16 for the workshops - $4 a session – call the Arts Centreto sign up today!

Still some spots available….Try a drop in class!

Theatre - Backyard Theatre Company for ages 5 – 15. For ages 5 - 8 –register your child and receive 50% off their registration fee! FUSIONMusical Theatre workshopsVisual Arts –Cartoon Illustration, Clay Creators (Hand Building) – DigitalPhotography, Clay Creators (Intro to the Wheel), Mixed Media painting,Digital Photography, Pottery Passion. Creative Wellness - Gentle Flow Yoga, Pilates (On the Ball, Basic Coreand NEW! Cardio Pilates), Belly Dance (Beginner & Advanced), NEW!AcroYoga Languages –Adults – French Level 1 & 2, Spanish Level 1 & 2. NEW! BACKBEAT SCHOOL OF MUSIC – Join other 12 - 17 year oldmusic artists to create music together under the guidance of a music mentor!Get involved today! Dance & Martial Arts with XCOMPANY – Ballet, Jazz, Tap, BroadwayStars, Contemporary, Creative Movement, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop,Breakdance, Chinese and Filipino Martial Arts. Music Lessons – Piano, Voice, Theory, Flute, Guitar, Accordion with theManitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts, or the Southeastern ManitobaTeachers’ Association (SMMTA).Workshops! Photography for Moms – On Saturday, November 22 – Learn tophotograph your children’s creatively! Capture these unforgettablemoments in your child’s life…priceless. Introduction to Aromatherapy – On Saturday, December 6 – Learn thebasics of aromatherapy techniques, soap making, recipes and blending.AFT Bring a Friend Days! Join ArtsforTots – On Wednesday, November 12 - Thursday, November13 from 1 – 3:30 pm for their Bring a Friend Days! Some spaces left….Ages3 - 5 will love learning early childhood development through the Arts –Music, Dance, Drama, Crafts… and Culture.

Rent our Facility We rent out our studios for meetings, recitals, receptions, showers,birthday parties and more. We also rent out chair covers, staging and wineglasses. Affordable prices and great creative space!

Hall gallery ‘Thriving Traditions’ by the Village Quilters

The Mennonite Heritage Quilters have partnered with The SteinbachArts Council to display their beautiful quilts as a hall exhibit. OnWednesday, November 5 – Friday, December 19 – Exhibit Opens – OnWednesday, November 5 at 7 pm at 304 Second Street – Corner of Reimerand Second Street.

Holiday Pops Concert!


We offer programs, activities, services and volunteer opportunities,striving to promote healthy and active living for older adults of thesoutheast region. For more information drop by the Centre, Monday toFriday 9 am - 4 pm, call 204-320-4600 or online patporteralc.com. Membership is only $25 per year for those 55 years of age and older.Benefits include reduced program rates, a voice in business meetings,voting rights and eligibility to serve on the board or committees.

Up and Coming Events and Monthly Programs:

The centre is closed for Remembrance Day on Tuesday, November 11. November Potluck: On Thursday, November 13 at 6 pm. Cost $5 perperson and we ask you to bring a dish large enough to share. We requiresalad, casserole or a dessert. Please call ahead to let us know you arecoming, how many people and what you will be bringing. Contact 204-320-4600 to register. Afternoon Jam: On Thursday, November 20 from 1:30 - 4 pm, join us forour monthly Old Time Band Afternoon Jam. Come out for some coffee,dessert and some great music. Cost $2 in advance for members, $3 inadvance for non-members and $4 at the door for all. Old Time Country Dance: With live Band - Small Town Limits - OnFriday, November 28 at 8 pm. Tickets available at the centre. Advancedtickets are $10 for members, $12 for non-members and $14 at the door.Lunch is served at 10 pm. Annual Christmas Banquet: On Thursday, December 11. Deadline Friday,December 5. Cost $15 for members, $18 for non-members. Tickets availableat the Centre. Punch at 6 pm, Dinner at 6:30 pm. Traditional turkey dinnerwith all of the trimmings. Royal Winnipeg Ballet: Anyone interested in going to the ballet? RWBis offering subsidized tickets to seniors and groups. Senior groups of 10or more are eligible to purchase tickets for $50 plus tax in section B. Pleaselet us know if you are interested and we will organize a bus trip. ContactKathy at 204-320-4603. Pickle Ball: On Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. A racquet sportfor all ages and all athletic ability levels in which two to four players usesolid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a polymerperforated ball over a net. Wear comfortable clothing and lace up, rubber-soled shoes. Cost $2 for each session. Floor Curling and Shuffle: Wednesdays and Tuesdays in our auditorium.Cost is $2 for each session. Computer Classes: Every Wednesday for 1 hour from 9 am - noon.Contact 204-320-4600 to make an appointment. December Birthday Celebration: Wednesday, December 3 at 2 pm.Celebrate with us! Bring your friends! Guests pay $2 for coffee and cake. Old Time Country and Pattern Dance Lessons: Weekly from 7 – 10 pm.Cost per couple for 15 lessons: $125 members and $145 non-members.Dance instructors are Jerry and Sandy Dion from Winnipeg. The Old Time Country Band - On Wednesdays at 7 pm. Cost is $1. Model Trains: Meet from Noon - 4:30 pm. Cost $1 for the afternoon. Pool: Drop in on Monday to Friday from Noon - 4 pm. Regular pool andsnooker available. Cost $1 for the afternoon. Foot Care: On the first Tuesday, first Wednesday and third Tuesday ofthe month from 9 am - 2 pm. Run by a professional foot care nurse. Cost$30. Bring your own towel. Contact the centre to book an appointment forTuesday, November 18. Beltone Hearing: On the third Friday of each month. Contact 1-800-661-2653 for appointment. Parkinson’s Support Group: Meets at the centre on Tuesday, November25 from 1 - 4 pm. Brain Injury Support Group: Meets on Monday, November 24 from 7am- 8:30 pm.Monday 12 - 4:30 pm Drop-in Pool

1 - 4 pm Pickleball1 - 4:30 pm Model Trains1 pm Canasta7 pm Tai Chi

Tuesday 9 am -12 pm Pickleball9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool1:30 - 4 pm Floor Curling and/or Shuffle2:30 - 4:30 pm Family Search7 - 10 pm Dance Lessons

Wednesday 9 am -12 pm Computer classes - call to register10 - 11:30 am Tai Chi12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool1 - 4 pm Cribbage1:30 - 4 pm Floor Curling and/or Shuffle7 - 9 pm Old Time Country Band Practice

Thursday 9 am - 12 pm Pickleball9:30 - 10:30 am P.A.C.E. Program and Urban Poling12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool1 - 4 pm Whist1 - 4 pm Floor Curling and/or Shuffle6 - 9 pm Pickleball

Friday 9 am - 12 pm Floor Curling and/or Shuffle9:30 am - 3 pm Circle of Friends12 - 4:30 pm Drop in Pool

Noon meals are available Monday through Friday. Cost $6. Contact 204-320-4605 by 9 am to reserve your meal for that day. Bring a friend.

By Marianne Curtis

On November 1, three hundredpeople gathered at the NivervilleHeritage Centre for their 8thannual Gala. Guests were treatedto a formal dinner followed bykeynote speaker Alvin Law. Thehighlight of the night was theannouncement that the final phaseof the Heritage Centre, a new lifelease project is underway. The Niverville Heritage LifeLease Project will complete theaging in place vision by providingthe Independent LivingComponent to the vision.Construction is expected to beginin the spring and the Gala markedthe beginning of the marketingcampaign for suites. The LifeLease facility will be connected tothe Niverville Heritage Centre andoffer several suite size options. Gord Damon, spokesperson forNiverville Heritage Holdings saidthe Niverville Heritage Life LeaseProject completes the aging inplace vision by providing theIndependent Living Component. “Heritage Life Retirement Livingwill include a 46 unit life leaseproject that will be fully integratedinto the Heritage Centre and allowthose over 65 the opportunity totake advantage of all the servicesoffered within our communitygathering place,” explainedDamon. “When completed the LifeLease project will result in theHeritage Centre being a fullyintegrated independent, assistedliving, supportive and personalcare housing project that includesmedical services, personalservices, commercial services andsocial gathering point all underone roof consisting of over aquarter million square feet.” The Niverville Heritage Life-lease project will cater mainly tosenior adults. It will particularlyprovide older homeowners with anopportunity to move into smaller,more manageable housing optionsthan their existing homes. The $12million project will be fundedthrough funds raised by theoccupants of the 46 suites. Damonsaid about half the suites arealready spoken for. Residents will be able to choosefrom a variety of support servicessuch as housekeeping, laundryand a la carte food service option.The Life Lease facility will alsoprovide convenient access to allthe health care services alreadyprovided at the Heritage Centre. “Prior to 2007 our communitydid not have these housingoptions and as a result, many

Life Lease Project Announcedat Heritage Event

community members were forcedto move away,” Damon added. Proceeds from the this year’sGala go towards enhancing greenspace for the enrichment ofresidents, staff and the communityat large whenever they visit the

gardens. The Niverville Heritage CentreProject is a collective communitypartnership established to addressthose housing needs, achievingmany of the goals since the officiallaunch to the Project in 2003.

Niverville Heritage Life Lease Project, the final stage of Niverville’s aging in place concept was launched during the Heritage Centre’sannual Gala on November 1.


Drivers are being urged to be extra cautious duringNovember, one of the two worst months for deer-vehiclecrashes in Manitoba. Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) recently releasedthe Top 5 locations in the province for collisions withdeer, noting the Eastman Region ranks as No. 1. The Eastman Region, which includes Steinbach, Lacdu Bonnet, Anola, Birds Hill Park area and Falcon Lakehas an annual collision rate of 1,600, based on statisticscollected by MPI from 2007 to 2013. The top five deer-vehicle collision regions based onannual numbers were Eastman (1,600), Westman (1,500),Interlake (1,100), Pembina Valley (600) andWinnipeg (600). November is the worst month for wildlife-vehiclecollisions (1,600), followed by October (1,400), accordingto MPI. Last year in Manitoba, 300 people were injured inwildlife-related collisions. In the past ten years, sevenpeople in Manitoba have been killed in crashes causedby an animal on a road.

By Marianne Curtis

Four significant community festivals within theregion were pleased to receive festival funding fromthe federal government. On October 14, Provencher MP Ted Falk visitedthe communities of St. Pierre-Jolys, St. Malo,Niverville and Steinbach to make individual fundingannouncements totalling $50,300. The funding wasprovided under Canadian Heritage’s BuildingCommunities Through Arts and Heritage Program. “I am pleased that our Government is supportingfestivals that bring visitors to the region and getresidents involved in their communities,” said Falk.“I applaud the hard work of these organizations andthe many volunteers that help ensure the success ofthese events year after year for all to enjoy!” Roland Gagné, President of the St. Pierre-JolysMuseum is grateful to receive $14,300 in fundingtowards next year’s Cabane Sucre, which takes placein April. “The Sugaring Off Festival shares and celebratesMétis and French-Canadian history, the evolutionof French education in Manitoba and the craft ofmaple syrup and it is important to our community,”explained Gagné. “We are especially glad to get thefunds now because it gives us an opportunity toplan forward.” The Friends of the St. Malo Provincial Park received$11,400 to host the annual Festival of Friends, whichtakes place in February on Louis Riel Day. Activitiesinclude presentations of music, dance and localhistorical Francophone and Métis heritage such astraditional Métis jigging and an interpretive historicalphotograph presentation. “St. Malo is a very busy park and our ultimate goalis to build an all season shelter at the park,” saidRalph Collette, with the Festival of Friends. “We areextremely grateful for any financial help we can getto keep us going.” The Niverville Olde Tyme Country Fair, which isheld in June, received $13,800 to help with theirtwentieth consecutive event. The Steinbach ArtsCouncil’s Summer in the City Festival of Arts &Culture that also takes place in June, received$10,800.

By Marianne Curtis

On October 31, the Federal Government announced that ApprentissageIllimité Inc., a publisher located in St. Adolphe would receive $70,530 infunding from the Canada Book Fund. The funding is expected to help Apprentissage Illimité publish a seriesof books focused on learning French as a second language for childrenacross the country. Raymond Poirier, President of Apprentissage Illimité said that hiscompany is grateful for the support of the government. “This contribution from the Government of Canada through the CanadaBook Fund will allow us to continue publishing books by CanadianFrancophone authors,” stated Poirier.

Deer CollisionRanks Highest inEastern Region

Community Festivals Receive Federal Funding

Above: Roland Gagné, President of the St. Pierre-Jolys Museum, Jacqueline Dotremont,Vice-President of the Museum, Denis Fillion, Mayor of the Village of St-Pierre-Jolys, TedFalk, Provencher MP, Cliff Graydon, Emerson MLA were all on hand for the announcement.Below: Festival of Friends President Leo Roch thanks Provencher MP Ted Falk for thefestival support funding that was recently received.

Federal Book Fund Supports Productionof French Teaching Materials

Apprentissage Illimité publishes a modernprogram that was developed especially for thelearning of French as a second language. Provencher MP Ted Falk was on hand topersonally make the announcement. “Throughthe funding announced today, we are pleased tosupport Apprentissage Illimité in its publishingactivities,” said Falk. “Thanks to its efforts,children from across the country will continue tohave access to quality educational materialdedicated to learning French as a secondlanguage.” The main product of Apprentissage Illimité isPaul et Suzanne, a French-languagedevelopment book and CD-Rom collection forchildren from pre-school to grade 3, is used inschools across Canada. It is being usedsuccessfully in French Immersion and FrenchSchools, as well as with French and English pre-school groups. The Paul et Suzanne program isapproved by the departments of education inmost of the Canadian provinces and used ascurriculum support material. In addition, thecompany has also used these two characters in a78-part DVD series for children up to 10 years. The Canada Book Fund, which is administeredby Canadian Heritage, offers about $39.1 millionin support to 300 Canadian book publishers andorganizations every year. Canadian publishersgenerate more than $2 billion in revenue eachyear and employ about 9,000 across Canada.

Provencher MP Ted Falk and Raymond Poirier, President ofApprentissage Illimité Inc., look over Canadian-authoredFrench language books in St. Adolphe.


I normally find it easy to come up with atopic to write about each month and hadbeen pondering this November article for aweek and then just the day before mydeadline, the Federal Governmentannounces some interesting tax cuts thataffect every family with children under age18. So now, my topic is an easy choice! The announcement that is not getting as much attention, but will affect virtually every familyis the increases made to the Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB). Until now, families withchildren under age six received $100 per month (taxable income). Now the amount is increased to $160 per month for children under six and they have createda new benefit for children six to 17, $60 per month. The math works out to $1,920/year forchildren up to age 5 and $720/year for children to age 17. This isn’t completely new money; they have removed the Children’s Tax Credit that was anon-refundable credit worth $338 per child under 18. Nevertheless, the change puts moremoney in families’ pockets. $2.6 Billion is the estimated net cost to the government; but that’s$2.6 Billion in the hands of families (and I’m sure 99% will put the cash back into the economy;rather than save it!) Although the new UCCB is effective January 1 2015, it will be paid retroactive in July 2015(up to six month of benefits will be received in the July payment). The other positive for some families with this announcement is that lower income families andsingle parents often didn’t benefit from the Children’s Tax Credit because it was a ‘non-refundabletax credit’. If you didn’t pay taxes, it didn’t help you. Now some lower income families reallywill benefit with more monthly cash through the UCCB. The second big announcement that will affect some families (but not all) is the Family IncomeSplitting for couples with children under 18 (sharing up to $50,000 of income). This tax cut willbe available for the 2014 tax year, so I’m sure many income tax software producers are scrambling,as soon as they get the fine print from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). That was the reason for putting a cap of $2,000 on it. I did some, “What ifs,” with some realfamilies. The first family: one spouse earns $27,500 and the other earns $70,500. Ok, decent income,but they likely don’t consider themselves ‘wealthy’. By being able to split $16,500 of theincome, they may be saving over $1,100 per year. Here’s another family: one spouse earns $67,000, the other about $5,000; by splitting $23,000of income, the tax savings could be $1,600.That’s real tax savings for families that will likely spend their extra cash flow in our communities. If both spouses earn income under $44,000 then there are no savings as both are in the lowestfederal tax bracket. A couple of months ago, the Children’s Fitness Tax Credit was increased to $1,000 from $500.This is a good break for those families with kids in some of the more expensive activities likehockey and dance (but remember it only increases the actual tax break to $150 from $75; notexactly a windfall.) The really good news was changing it to a refundable tax credit to the lowerincome families or single parents that may pay no taxes and have received no benefit in the past. As the government continues to tweak our personal income tax system, it ensures that I willbe in business for a while: since fewer and fewer taxpayers want to complete and file their owntaxes (in case they miss something!). If our government ever introduced a flat tax, I would be outof business! See you at tax time! CRA opens E-Filing on February 9 2015; my team and I will be readywhen you are! Anni Markmann is a tax professional working, living, and volunteering in our community.Contact Anni at 204-422-6631, [email protected] or 36 Dawson Road in Ste Anne.

By Marianne Curtis

On October 22, the country collectively held its breath as an unknowngunman stormed Parliament Hill and reports of gunfire emerged. Whenthe dust settled, Cpl. Nathan Cirillo was shot and killed by the gunmanwhile standing on guard at the National War Memorial. By the end of theday Sergeant-at-Arms, Kevin Vickers was elevated to hero status forshooting the gunman in front of the Library of Parliament. Provencher MP Ted Falk found himself caught in the chaos as MPsbarricaded themselves in the caucus room by stacking chairs against thedoors. “It was a surreal scene that unfolded in front of us as a gunman exchangedgunfire with security officers in Parliament’s Centre Block,” recalled Falk.“At the moment of the attack, I was listening to the Prime Minister addressour Conservative national caucus meeting when I heard five or six loudpopping sounds from the other side of the caucus room door.” Falk said it took everyone in the room several seconds to realize whatthey had heard; however, there was no mistaking the sound of gunfire. “At that point, we still had no idea how many shooters there were, if ourroom holding the Prime Minister was the target, if it was a coordinatedattack, and if so, if other attacks have simultaneously occurred across thecountry,” Falk continued. “Without a doubt, not knowing the scope of theattack was the most unnerving aspect for everyone in the room. MPs wereinstructed not to communicate using their electronic devices other than tonotify their families and offices that they were safe.” Falk said the MPs were forced to stay sequestered for another ten hoursbefore they were whisked away to another location where they met withthe Prime Minister. “We decided as a caucus that our government would not be intimidatedby this act of violence and terrorism and decided to open the House at10am the next day as usual,” Falk continued. “Upon returning to work in the morning, bullet holes could be seen inthe Hall of Honour. It was a sober reminder of what had happened and areminder that Parliament will forever be changed.” Falk said that he is extremely grateful for the security and police whoresponded to the incident so quickly, and bravely. “While the peace we often take for granted in our nation may have beentemporarily shaken, we will persevere. Canada will not be intimidated andthis will only strengthen our resolve. We will come out of this strongerand united,” Falk concluded. This is the second time that Falk has found himself in the middle of a gunbattle. At the beginning of July, Falk travelled to Israel on a ParliamentaryMission Trip. Shortly after arriving, he was forced to take shelter when hisgroup experienced the threat of rocket fire. Four days later, he witnessedattacks on Israel while returning from a briefing with the Minister of Defence.

Provencher MP Recalls Terror in Ottawa

Bullet holes in the walls of the Hall of Honour give testament to a terrifying day in Ottawa for Provencher MP Ted Falk and the rest of thecountry.

Photo submitted by Provencher MP Ted Falk

Family Tax Cuts


By Marianne Curtis

Nine years ago, thirty-two yearold Sherri Parent, decided to pickup her great-grandmother’spassion for quilting. Since thenshe has become a master quilterwho constantly challenges herselfwith complicated designs andcolourful fabrics. “I had never tried it, until a friendof mine was scrapbooking one dayand the way she designed thepage stood out and I liked it,”Parent recalled. “I decided rightthen and there that I wanted tolearn to do what my great-grandmother loved.” For her first project, Parent chosea nine-patch block, which is anexcellent beginner block with tonsof design potential according toParent. Sewing nine patchestogether to form a larger block,then these larger ones are piecedtogether into whatever final sizethe designer wishes. “I made a queen sized quilt formy mother’s bed,” she admits. “Iwas very ambitious, but Idiscovered that I really enjoyedthe challenge. I have been quiltingever since.” Traditional quilting involveshand sewing the patches together,then placing the material onto along arm where the layers are handstitched together, then finished ona sewing machine or serger. She uses an electronic long arm,which allows her to sew the layerstogether using a unique stitchingpattern, which she designs herself.In one case, a custom quilt createdout of Ford material, has the word

Fourth Generation QuilterKeeps Tradition Alive

Thirty-two year old Sherri Parent finishes a customer’s quilt surrounded by a number of amazing piecesincluding the only quilt she worked with alongside her mother (far left). The quilt beside it was created overfifty years ago by her great-grandmother Elodie Harrison. The ribbon quilt was created from of a friend’s Relayfor Life t-shirts.


‘Ford’ hidden within the stitching. “This gives each quilt I create a uniquelook,” added Parent. “It’s my way ofcreating art.” Parent is confident that her great-grandmother Elodie Harrison would be veryproud of her for revitalizing a craft sheonce loved. Years ago, Elodie was knownas a quilting queen who at 84 could stillproduce a queen sized quilt in three weeks.She would gift them to her children andgrandchildren. She once made forty-twoquilts in one year. “It was something that she loved to do.My grandmother didn’t do as much andneither did my mother,” Parent explained.

“As for me, I can’t make enough.” She admits that it is unusual for awoman her age to take up such atraditional craft. “I find it challenging and I lovecreating my own quilts and designs,”said Parent. “Now, though, it’s not just ahobby, it has become a business,” Parentcontinued. A year ago, she opened Drive 2 SewQuilt and Craft Shop in Brookdale Mall inSteinbach. With the recent closure oftwo quilt shops in other communities,she is confident that her business willcontinue to thrive and grow. She alsoteaches classes for all skill levels.

On October 9, Southern Health board of directorspresented their second annual board meeting sinceamalgamation at the Niverville Heritage Centre. The topic of the night was Moving Forward Togetherwith guest speaker Dr. Michael Rachlis. SouthernHealth CEO Kathy McPhail says the board is familiarwith moving forward as that is what they have beenworking on for the last two years.

“As the first full fiscal year of operations, it will beremembered as a pivotal year of forward momentum inconsolidating programs and services across theregion,” stated McPhail. “It has been a large-scaleundertaking and we made important strides in shapinga regional network of health professionals who striveto work seamlessly together to provide quality healthcare.” “This required a common vision, shared values anda collective regional approach to make our systemstronger for the future,” she added. “When we think of the many great things that takeplace in just one single day in Southern Health-SantéSud, it’s impossible not to be energized about theprogress being made,” McPhail continued. “Althoughchange does not always present itself in a spectacularfashion, it’s important to take each of those dailysuccess stories and add them up, to appreciate thebig differences that do impact on care and improvewhat we do.” “We continue to experience growing demand forservices and we anticipate that we will be called uponto do more within existing resources,” said McPhail.“By making good stewardship a part of daily workand by being efficient and effective in our planningand in everyday operations, we are once again able toend the year in a strong financial position.” Financially, Southern Health ended the year with asurplus of $1.49 million.

Health Meeting Reflectson Accomplishments in

First Two Years

“...we made important stridesin shaping a regional networkof health professionals who

strive to work seamlesslytogether...”


The City of Steinbach is lookingfor volunteers for the Citizens onPatrol Program (COPP). COPP is a crime preventionprogram where community membersact as extra eyes and ears for acommunity and the RCMP. Theorganization’s goal is to improvesafety in the community throughdeterrence, education andawareness. The City is looking for individuals

The large pile of finished compost at the City’s Landfillwas loaded up in record time this year. Eldon Wallman, Solid Waste Department Head saidthe high quality compost is very popular for local yardand gardening projects and that it is was amazing tosee how quickly the material was collected by arearesidents. “This year the compost pile was very popular anddisappeared in only a few days,” said Wallman. “Peoplewere lined up to load their compost.” The compost pile is the result of considerable use ofthe community compost depots. Residents ofSteinbach and area have been diligently bringing their

At the beginning of October, the RM of LaBroquerie decided to enter into an agreement topurchase land needed to expand the community’slagoon. The municipality had been negotiating with theowner of NW31-6-8e, adjacent to the existingmunicipal lagoon with “some urgency” due tocapacity issues with the existing lagoon. Council gave the administration the authority toenter into an agreement to purchase approximately8.1 acres of property for the existing lagoonexpansion. RM of La Broquerie Reeve Lewis Weiss said thisis long awaited good news for La Broquerie. “We are currently being held back from furthergrowth because our lagoon is at capacity,” Weissexplained. “We are looking at doing the projectproperly with an aeration system so that we neverhave to expand it again.” Weiss confirmed that he knew that an agreementfor the land had been made before the election, buthe was not sure on of the purchase price. The RM of La Broquerie is already looking atfunding assistance from Manitoba Infrastructure.

Residents Line Up for Compostcompostable kitchen, yard and garden waste to oneof three depots in the City during the spring andsummer months over the past few years. The materialis then composted, screened at the Steinbach Landfillevery year and used in the City’s parks and gardens,as well as made available to the public at no charge inthe fall. “We encourage residents to continue to bring theirorganic waste to the Landfill’s compost pile yearround,” added Wallman. “Also watch for compostingprograms starting up again in the spring.” He added that the City was grateful to the publicfor their composting efforts and assisting withkeeping compostable waste materials out of thelandfill.

La BroquerieMakes Lagoon

Land Deal

COPPSNeeds

Volunteers

who are interested in making adifference in the community,although you do not have to be aresident to volunteer. Volunteerswho have been looking for a way toget involved in the community orhave an interest in the safety of thecommunity are invited to signup. Interested individuals will berequired to complete a VolunteerApplication and pass a criminalcheck. Both documents are availableonline or can be picked up at CityHall, 225 Reimer Avenue inSteinbach. COPP members will receive trainingand all scheduled patrol shifts areextremely flexible to fit volunteers’availability. For further information, contactBernice McMullan at 204-326-3487or Mary Giesbrecht at 204-346-2561.


By Marianne Curtis

For the eleventh year in a row, Farm Credit Canada (FCC) with the help of a record numberof partners raised more than five million pounds of food for food banks nationwide throughthis year’s Drive Away Hunger. Michael Hoffort, FCC president and CEO said the company is grateful for the generoussupport of communities and customers who make the annual event a success. “FCC Drive Away Hungerdemonstrates our long-termcommitment to the industryby bringing the agriculturecommunity together toshare the food it produceswith those who need itmost,” said Hoffort. “We aregrateful for the generoussupport of our customersand partners and for theircommitment to helping fighthunger across Canada. I’moverwhelmed by theamount of support – wecouldn’t do this withoutthem.” FCC Drive Away Hungeris the largest employee ledfood drive in Canada. Itinvolves driving a tractorand trailer through variouscommunities to collect food and cash donations for food banks across the country. Thistook place in the southeast on October 13. At the end of the tractor tour, 116,713 pounds of food was collected in Manitoba including37,188 pounds collected in Steinbach. “FCC’s Drive Away Hunger campaign is an important food drive in our province, providingsupport directly to our food banks and to the over 60,000 individuals who access them eachmonth in Manitoba,” added Graham Starmer, Executive Director, Manitoba Association ofFood Banks. “Each year FCC employees lead the way to help those in need of essentialfood and we are excited to begin the 11th year!” One hundred percent of donations go to Canadian food banks. In Manitoba, over 60,000people are assisted by food banks every month. Of those assisted, 45 percent are children. Since 2004, FCC employees and community partners have raised over 22 million poundsof food.

By Marianne Curtis

Now that the 2014 baseballseason is over, BaseballManitoba is gearing up torecognize theaccomplishments of everyoneinvolved throughout theseason. At a gala evening plannedtowards the end of November,a volunteer, a coach and ayoung ball player are amongthose slated to be recognizedfor their achievements in thesport. Ile Des Chene resident AlexGrenier, and his son Nic willboth be honoured at the gala.Alex who is very active withthe Carillon Minor Leaguesays he was surprised to benamed Volunteer of the Year. “I guess that locally our clubthought that I had gone overand above this season,”Grenier says. “We applied forthe AAA Pee Wee qualifierand were awarded them andwe really impressed those thatattended.” Grenier says he was the“motivator” behind soddingthe diamond, putting upbatting cages, sodding thetennis court for small kids,bringing in water andelectricity to all the diamondsand bringing infield material

At the end of the first day, 37,188 pounds of food was collected fromvarious businesses, communities and schools throughout the region.

Farm Credit’s Drive AwayHunger Hugely Successful

Ile Des Chene father andSon to be Recognized

to all the diamonds. “I was behind a lot of this, but surely didn’t do all of thework,” Grenier added. “Nonetheless, I am honoured thatmy board decided to award me with naming a diamondafter me. His son Nic, who plays in the Seine River “AA”/ Carillon“AAA” league, has been named Midget Player of theyear. “He had a fantastic year, hitting eight home runs as wellas pitching many games,” Alex praised. “He played on ourlocal Seine River AA midget team that went to provincials,as well as played on the AAA midget Carillon Team as wellas the junior Seine River team and the junior Carillon team.” Curt Brandt, from Blumenort is being named GrassrootsCoach. A total of seventeen awards will be presented at theNovember 22 gala, which is taking place at the HolidayInn Airport West.

This past summer, a diamond at the Optimist Park in Ile des Chenes wasnamed after Alex Grenier, who has dedicated a decade to baseball in theregion. He celebrated with his wife Evelyne, and sons Noah andNicholas.


Colossians 3:1-2...(1)Since, then, you havebeen raised with Christ, setyour hearts on thingsabove, where Christ isseated at the right hand of God. (2) Set your minds on thingsabove, not on earthly things. Let heaven fill your thoughts: (NIV) We probable all agree that the mind does strange things.Perhaps I need to do a reality check while I am at it. You mightbe right; but let us read our text again... let heaven fill yourthoughts. Sounds kind of satisfying and it has that calmingaffect about it, not like the hurried stuff we see in the worldtoday. So, we read it again! Sit back and let heaven fill ourthoughts; watch the stars on a clear night. Allow our thoughtsto run among the stars and imagine for a moment we could beup there, beholding the wondrous beauty of God’s creativepower. “Wow!” But, wait a minute, we are still here living on planet earth andin a physical world at that. However, I do think that God hasgiven us enough information in the Bible allowing us someliberty to stretch our minds and do some thinking outside thisworld in which we live. Christians sometimes forget the fact that Jesus said He waspreparing a special room in a special home in heaven for us,“That mansion in the sky.” Yes! It is natural for you and me tothink about things down here on earth because this is wherewe build our homes, raise and nourish our families... this iswhere we have our forty winks. Still, I think we have the right to think about heavenly thingsas well. I think Christ has given us a special insight into thatpowerful creative work of God and that place which is stillwaiting for us. As we search the Bible with the help of theHoly Spirit, God continues to reveal heavenly thoughts,intensifying our understanding of that which is yet to come. The Bible is always the place to go when we want to grow inChrist. It teaches us that we are identified with Christ when weaccept Jesus Christ into our heart. We believe that He died asour substitute. When Christ rose from the dead, we can saythat we have been raised to a new life, a life that has been setfree from the penalty of sin and the power to have the victoryover sin. Yes! I realize that I still have a sin nature and it givesme a whole lot of trouble. There are times I find myselfcommitting sin, I do not wish to commit sin, but I do. Theanswer for my problem is my identification with Christ. Christis more than just my associate and partner; He is the one whowalks alongside me, like the footprints in the sand story. Someday soon, and I really believe it is soon, you and I willhear the sound of the trumpet blast. It will happen in a flash.The Bible teaches (1 Corinthians 15:51-54) that it will happenin a moment, in the twinkle of an eye. There will be a trumpetcall from the sky and all the Christians who have died willsuddenly become alive with new bodies that will never everagain die. But then, those who are still alive shall suddenly bechanged, and they too shall have new bodies. These earthlybodies of ours, these bodies that grow old and sick and diemust be exchanged for new heavenly bodies that can neverdie, but will live forever... Do you want to be part of thisgroup? But, for now, it means we set our mind and heart on thethings, which are above, on heavenly things, and not so muchon the things of this world. We also take special care toremember what Christ has done for us. That means we judgeeverything in the light of the Cross never forgetting thatChrist died for us to set us free from the judgment to come. Because of our new life in Christ, we now look at this world’swealth, ambitions, and activities for what they are. Yes! Manyof the things we do are necessary; however, we can now lookbeyond our tiny world and see what is waiting for us inheaven. We are part of God’s family, we identify with him andHe identifies with us. One more thing that He does is Heincludes us in His life and we shall take part in His finalvictory. He loves us so much. He has made a place for us, andour victory is sure. To God be the glory great things He hasdone. Would you pray this prayer with me … “Lord Jesus, comeinto my heart. Forgive my sins. I want my life to change. Mythoughts and my attitude need to change. I do not have thepeace in my heart that I yearn for. I really want that peace, joyand happiness that will fulfill my heart’s desire. Please let theHoly Spirit help me be the kind of Christian that will honourYour Name.” Amen.

A VerySpecialRoom


“Pastor, it’s not my fault! It happened because ….” Thereare many scenarios that could be used to finish the abovestatement. These they can be summed up in one little phrase,the Blame Game. People try to justify their actions by blaming them onsomething or someone else. All of us, including myself, havebeen guilty of playing this game. We don’t have to learnhow to do it. It comes natural because of our sinful naturethat we inherited from our original parents, Adam and Eve. In Genesis 3, in the Bible, when God asked Adam if he had eaten fruit from the forbidden tree, hisimmediate response was to blame Eve and even God Himself. Verse 12 says, “The woman whomthou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.” Then when God approached Eve, she blamed her actions on the serpent. “The serpent beguiledme and I did eat.” Another example from the Bible is found in I Samuel 13. King Saul disobeyed God and offered asacrifice that should only have been performed by Samuel, the prophet. When confronted, Saulblamed Samuel for being late and the people who were getting afraid and leaving him. He evenblamed the opposing army, the Philistines. The prophet’s response to Saul and to all of us whoinsist on playing the Blame Game is, “Thou hast done foolishly.” (I Samuel 13:13) The reason we blame others is that we don’t want to accept personal responsibility for ouractions. The only positive way out of our troubled circumstances that we caused, is to learn toblame yourself. People who refuse to blame themselves establish a life pattern of accusing andblaming others over and over again and never realize real victory or joy. In II Samuel 12, King David had done wrong by taking another man’s wife and then having herhusband killed in battle, making it appear as an accident. But when confronted by the prophet,Nathan, the king humbly acknowledged his actions and took full responsibility for them. He said, “Ihave sinned against the Lord.” (Verse 13) The king acknowledged his sin before God and openly took the blame and went to God forforgiveness. God forgave him and restored his joy. In Luke 18, the publican in the temple cried out, “God be merciful to me a sinner.” God is stilllooking for people today like this publican who are honest enough to admit their sin and take theblame and responsibility for it. A clean heart requires an honest admission of our personal guilt.Friend, if you are still playing the Blame Game, isn’t it time to be honest with yourself and alsobefore God and go to Him like King David did acknowledging and confessing your sin to God andlet Him bring true forgiveness and joy? God bless you as you honestly seek Him!

There was a buzz of excitement amongst Providence Pilots athleteson October 22 as they gathered in the gymnasium to hear theannouncement of a $60,000 upgrade to their soccer facilities. Thanks to the donation from TransCanada Corporation, the soccerfacilities in Otterburne will be equipped with a new parking lot, soundsystem, video tower and an electronic scoreboard. The upgrades, which would not be possible without the donation,will not only impact the multi-time MCAC champion Providence Pilots,but also community teams from Otterburne and Grunthal who sharethe facility with the varsity teams throughout the year. Bryce Lord, TransCanada Pipeline Vice President said the decisionto support came after the company met with Providence College overthe winter. The relationship occurred as a result of a gas line blowoutjust outside of the campus. “While we worked here for several months last winter, we got toknow the campus and to see the value of the college,” Lord stated.“We also learned about the soccer pitch, how it’s not just used by thecollege, and decided this would be a great opportunity to impact a lotof people.” Providence College’s Athletic Director Scott Masterson said theupgrades are yet another stamp of legitimacy to a program that hasproven for years now to be one of the finest in the Manitoba soccercommunity. “This is a big boost not just for the reputation of our varsity teams,but also for the soccer community here as well,” stated Masterson.“Our athletes know that we have an exceptional soccer program herewith the success we’ve had over the years, but now other teams andprograms that come out to play will get a better glimpse of a soccercommunity that is really thriving in Otterburne.” The wheels are already in motion with these upgrades, as someprojects are either well on their way to be completed, or are alreadyfinished. Providence hoped to have most, if not all of these upgradescompleted before they host the Manitoba Colleges Athletic ConferenceFinal Fours last weekend.

Current and former attendees of Pansy Chapel gathered at the churchrecently for a dinner and program in honour of longtime PastorLeonard Barkman and his wife Betty. Steinbach MLA, Kelvin Goertzen(who attended Pansy Chapel as a young boy) and his wife Kim wereon hand to present the Barkmans with a gift and offer them thanks fortheir years of pastoral service. Barkman now serves as a SupportPastor in the recently expanded church.

The Blame GameProvidence’s Soccer

Program Gets a Big Boost

The Providence College soccer facilities will receive a major upgrade thanks to a largedonation from TransCanada Corporation.

Pansy PastorHonoured


By Joan Airey

Two country brothers from Coulter in southwesternManitoba found themselves fighting for the same causein World War II. Because Jack Bennett was over in Bishopthorpe,England helping, his uncle and aunts run their hotel for afew weeks he ended up being drafted into the Britisharmy on October 17, 1940. His brother William Henry wasalso called to action joining the Canadian army. “My training consisted of three months at Rhyl KinmillPark Camp in North Wales. I trained as a MT andTechnical Engineer as an operator and driver. There wasvery little training on firing guns, etc. I was one of fourwho passed as a driver mechanic. On February 24, 1941, Imarried Jennie Gair, who I met in 1939 when I arrived inEngland,” said Bennett.

Right after they married Jack Bennett a soldier in the5th Searchlight Company of the Royal Army left to servein the Singapore area. On February 15, 1942 the outfit, hewas serving with capitulated to the overwhelmingJapanese forces. “When Jack was taken prisoner of war I didn’t knowfor six months if he was alive. The only correspondenceallowed was a postcard. I was only allowed 16 words onthe postcards I sent Jack and I had to be careful what Iwrote or they would destroy his mail. When the war was

over, piles of undelivered mail were found in the POWcamps,” recalled Jennie Bennett. Jack Bennett was one of thousands of men who builtthe bridge over the River Kwai, which is now a grim relicthat inspired a celebrated novel and motion picture.Seeking a strategic railway link between Thailand andBurma in World War II, the Japanese forced Alliedprisoners of war, Asian soldiers and workers to lay morethan 250 miles of track through malaria-infested jungle.Thousands died of malnutrition, disease and in Alliedbombings that destroyed part of the bridge. “We carved a cross which we erected in the middle ofthe graveyard. When we buried a prisoner, we wrote hisname and where he was buried on a piece of paper.These were stored in a quinine bottle by the cross.When the bottle was full of names we buried it by thecross hoping someday the war would be over and ourcomrades’ graves would be marked. Prisoners who diedwere buried in a rice sack made of rice straw. Now thegraves are marked and the Thai people care for thegraveyard,” explained Bennett. Today the railway line carries tourists from Bangkok to

Kanchanaburi near the bridge across the River Kwai,where neat rows of gravestones mark the graves ofabout half of the 16,500 prisoners of war that diedbuilding the bridge of death. Over 100,000 Asian soldiersand workers also lost their lives while working on thebridge. “Treatment in the POW camps was inhuman; we weregiven one scoop of rice to eat three times a day. On veryrare occasions, we shared half a pig amongst six hundredmen or we were fed marrow or cucumbers. If you had tencents you could sometimes buy a duck egg,” saidBennett. Prisoners’ clothing was a loincloth and woodenthongs. Suffering from malnutrition, these men toiledlong hours building the bridge across the River Kwai.Even prisoners who were ill with malaria were expected towork by catching twenty flies a day or they would gettheir face slapped. Bennett was one of those prisonerswho eventually contracted and suffered from malaria. “Prisoners caught stealing food were put into ‘hotboxes’ made of bamboo. They couldn’t sit up, stand-upor lay down properly and a hole was dug in one end for atoilet. Others were sent to the guardroom to be kickeduntil they fell down and then kicked until they got upagain. Prisoners were forced to salute all Japanesesoldiers. Anyone trying to escape was shot immedi-ately,” explained Bennett bluntly. Then in August 1945, two American soldiers and a Thaisoldier freed the final prisoner of war campsite. ThePOWs next traveled by truck to Bangkok, flew toRangoon and from there they sailed on the Cynthia toSouthampton, England. Bennett returned home weighingonly 89 pounds. For his courage and heroism, hereceived the Kings Medal, War Medal 1939-45, PacificMedal, Burma Bar and the Star Medal 1939-45. Jack and Jennie Bennett eventually returned to Canadain 1946 and continued farming in the Coulter area. Jack Bennett was my Dad. He never missed observingRemembrance Day and he took time to sell poppies inmemory of his comrades who lost their lives to give usfreedom until he passed away. I am reminded weekly, that when I sit at my computer towrite, 69 years ago my Dad secretly borrowed a pencilfrom an officer in order to keep track of what life was likein his journal as a prisoner struggling for survival in aPOW camp while helping build the bridge across theRiver Kwai. If he was caught writing, he would havebeen severely punished. Remember. Wear your poppies with pride.

“When we buried a prisoner, we wrotehis name and where he was buried ona piece of paper. These were stored ina quinine bottle by the cross. When thebottle was full of names we buried it by

the cross hoping someday the warwould be over and our comrades’

graves would be marked.”


The 2014 Poppy Campaign of the Royal Canadian Legion is underway in Steinbach.Steinbach Branch #190 has begun the distribution of thousands of Poppies to localbusinesses, schools and other venues during this campaign. Members of the Steinbach Branch #190 will conduct the distribution of poppy boxesthroughout Steinbach and boxes will be delivered to a number of communities in thesoutheast. “Due to a number of dedicated volunteers, we are able to deliver poppy boxes tocommunities such as Niverville, Grunthal, Vita and Sprague,” commented PoppyChairman Christie Borkowsky. Members of the community will also have the opportunity to pick up a Poppy frommembers of the Air Cadets, Scouts and Guides at local businesses on Friday, November7 or Saturday, November 8. Donations received during the Poppy Campaign aredeposited in a separate account and may only be used for specific purposes as outlinedby the RoyalCanadianLegion’s PoppyManual. “We are able toassist ourVeterans, theirfamilies and ourcommunities, solong as wefollow the rulesas outlined byDominionCommand andhave approvalfrom our localBranchmembership,” stated Borkowsky. “When the Steinbach Branch #190 decided to make adonation to the Bethesda Hospital for the purchase of a specialized air mattress for thepalliative care program, the $4,000 came from the Poppy Fund; however, approval alsohad to come from Provincial Command as this was considered a special use of Poppyfunds for a community medical device.” The Poppy has been a symbol of Remembrance since 1921 and known internationallyas a symbol of collective reminiscence that honours those who paid the ultimatesacrifice. The Poppy Campaign is the foundation of the Legion’s RemembranceProgram, which provides Poppies to members of the community as well as theopportunity to participate in Remembrance Day services. The Steinbach Legion Branch #190 will be holding the 2014 Remembrance Day serviceat the Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church on Tuesday, November 11.

The Steinbach Legion Community Hall, owned by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch#190, will remain available for rent for special functions well into the coming year. At a recent meeting of the Executive Committee, it was decided to make the facilityavailable for community and family events until at least September 1, 2015. This decisionwas also presented to the membership at the October general meeting. Following thedecision to sell the building, the Legion will begin the process of determining whattype of facility will best suit its future needs. At this time, no steps have been taken toplace the current building up for sale and no formal offers to purchase have been made. Membership is not a requirement to rent the Steinbach Legion Community Hall,which is open to any individual or group, and it has hosted many family functions fromweddings and anniversaries to birthday and retirement parties as well as manyfundraisers, business meetings, and receptions. Membership in the Royal Canadian Legion is opened to any Canadian citizen overthe age of 18 years; military service is not a requirement. The Steinbach Legion would like to thank all of its past, current and future usergroups for their past and ongoing support.

2014 PoppyCampaignUnderway

Steinbach Legion Community Hall RemainsReady for Community Functions


By Marianne Curtis

The Village of St. Pierre-Jolys’Council felt good about their newpositions when they returned tochambers after the election as anacclaimed council, including theirnew Mayor Mona Fallis. Fallis was first elected to councilin 2009 and now that she is mayor,she hopes to move St. Pierre-Jolyspositively into the future. “I have a really good team aroundthe table, and I anticipate that wewill work well together for thebetterment of St. Pierre-Jolys,”stated Fallis. Joining her in councilare seasoned councillors LucNadeau, Brian Martel, RaymondMaynard and Paul Gauthier who isnew to the table. Fallis stated that council is alreadyworking on a number of projects. “We’ve had a three yearmoratorium on construction so nota lot has happened in recent years;we need to expand our lagoon,”explained Fallis. “Once this is done,we expect people to move back toSt. Pierre-Jolys and we want to makesure they feel at home and want tostay and raise their kids here.” Plans include facilities for family

The volunteers from the Bethesda Health Care Auxiliary are quicklymoving towards being able to finish their current fundraising projectthanks to the success of a recent fall book sale. The annual event that took place from October 16 -18 raised $10,200,the second highest amount ever collected during the fall event. Bethesda Hospital Health Care Auxiliary Vice-President Verna Thiessenreported the organizations’ fall book sale successfully raised a significantportion of funds needed towards finishing their current project. Thegroup is currently raising funds to renovate and furnish a family roomin Bethesda Hospital. “We are redoing a room at the hospital, that will be called the ChrysalisRoom, which will be used by families faced with a terminal diagnosis,”said Thiessen. “This will be a room where a family can go to deal with aterminal diagnosis in private, either to talk to make crucial decisions.” Thiessen explained that the room is being called the Chrysalis Roombecause the chrysalis, or hard shell that a caterpillar encases itself inbefore becoming a butterfly, symbolizes rebirth. “Many families are faced with making tough decisions when it comesfrom going from one stage of life to the next,” Thiessen continued. “It isimportant they can do this in a place where they can find peace.” The Bethesda Hospital Health Care Auxiliary expects to spend about$30,000 for furnishings and other fixtures that will make the room suitablefor this use. Work has already started on the room but she does notknow when it will be ready for use.

The Steinbach Arts Council, (SAC) is inviting all violin playersfrom the region of all ages and levels, to come and play togetherwith other violinists. Their goal is to build the Violin Community inthe Steinbach and surrounding area with an invitation to join theFriday Night Violin group program workshops. The call-out is for every violinist, no matter where students taketheir training and teachers are encouraged to send their studentseven if it is to observe. “The violin is such a solo instrument experience, so it’s nice tocome together and play together. There are many benefits to playingwith others, sharing your love of music with others, meeting otherviolinists, and making great music together,” stated the SAC. There will be an open recital for everyone during the evening, onFriday, December 5 with fun and food. To sign up or for moreinformation contact the SAC at 204-346-1077.

On October 4, fifteen authors fromthe southeast gathered atProvidence College for the first everself-publishing boot camp. Hosted by Marianne Curtis,author of Finding Gloria and AlBayne, author of WildernessWanderings - 40 Nature Devotions,the one-day seminar introduced newauthors to the business of self-publishing. Topics included editing,publishing houses, e-books andmarketing. “I want to encourage writers towrite and help guide them throughthe publishing process,” statedBayne. “My hope is that everywriter came away from this seminarequipped to get published.” Those who attended the seminarwalked out with a solid grasp ontraditional and self publishingoptions, the importance ofproofreading, editing and layout,marketing, how to use social media,paperback and e-book options, howto work with consignment,publishing scams and othervaluable information. Laura Reeve, from Prairie Shore

Fall Book Sale Nets $10,200

Calling all Violin Lovers

St. Pierre-Jolys’ new Mayor Mona Fallis is ready for business.


Acclaimed Mayor Ready forBusiness in St. Pierre-Jolys

activities and more focus on culture. “My vision is to make sure youngfamilies have stuff that they willwant, to stay here and things to keepthe seniors here at home whilerespecting our rich past,” Fallis said.This includes installing a splash parkat the Carillon Park, the constructionof an amphitheatre and put morefocus on culture.”

Fallis added that she is lookingforward to working with the new RMof De Salaberry Council. “It is very important that we workwell together for the common goodfor all our residents,” Falliscontinued. “A healthy St. Pierre-Jolys is good for the municipalityand a healthy municipality is goodfor St. Pierre-Jolys.”

Published authors Casia Schreyer, Violet Moore and Robert Stermscheg joined the panel toshare their varied experiences and expertise.

Publishing Boot Camp Helps Local Authors

Botanicals in Gardenton attended inhopes to find information so shecould publish a book called Laura’sGuide to Useful Plants. “There was lots of usefulinformation and shared experiencesand encouragement,” stated Reeves.

“It is good to know what optionsare available for publishing andwhere to look for more information.” In addition to the exchange ofinformation, a few already publishedauthors were among the group andshared their expertise.


Provencher Liberal Candidate Terry Hayward applaudsProvencher MP Ted Falk for adopting the Liberal Partyposition on credit union taxation. “During the 2013 by-election I campaigned to reversethis unfair tax, which has cost credit union members $700million to date,” said Hayward. “I am pleased thatProvencher MP Ted Falk finally agrees with the LiberalParty position on this issue.” Hayward adds it is unfortunate that the ConservativeParty saw the need to increase the tax burden on creditunions. In many communities across Canada credit unionsand caisses populaires are the only financial institutionsavailable to residents, especially in rural and remote areas. “Credit unions are important organizations that supportCanadians from coast to coast. This unfair tax increaseon credit unions has hurt families, small businesses, andlocal economies by taking money out of the pockets ofcredit union members,” stated Hayward who promises tocontinue to urge the Conservative government to reversetheir agenda of higher taxes on credit unions.

On November 5, the President of the Comité scolaire del’École Saint-Joachim, Mr. Gilbert Gauthier and theorganizing committee will be officially launching thesecond year of Operation Red Nose. Last year was the first time that Operation Red Nosewas available to people in the Steinbach and La Broquerieareas. The program was organized and operated by theParent Advisory Committee (PAC) from Ecole St-Joachim,in La Broquerie as a school fundraiser along with partnersfrom the community including the City of Steinbach, RMof La Broquerie and Steinbach RCMP. Ecole St-Joachim PAC Spokesperson Mariette Kirouacreported that last year, the program got off to a slowstart, but by the end of the season, it was well utilized. Inthe first weekend, 18 rides were given and the numbersjumped to 30 the next weekend. The remaining twoweekends saw 42 rides and 36 rides given respectively. The mission of Operation Red Nose is to encourageresponsible behaviour in a non-judgmental manner withregard to impaired driving by enabling communities toprovide a free and confidential chauffeur service to theirmembers, the financial benefits of which are redistributedto local organizations dedicated to youth. Operation Red Nose is a community-based volunteerprogram offering holiday partygoers a safe ride homeduring the holidays. The service is not exclusive tomotorists who have been drinking. It is also available forthose who do not feel fit to drive because of fatigue ormedication.

On Monday night October 20 at the St. Adolphe curling rink, The Rockettes celebrated40 years of curling! Big smiles, hugs and laughter could be heard from the packedhouse as the Rockettes fondly reminisced over their four decades of friendship andlove of the wonderful sport of curling for all ages.

Manitobans have the opportunity toattend pre-budget public consultationsacross the province to share their visionfor the upcoming budget in communitymeetings and online. Over the next month, FinanceMinister Jennifer Howard will bemeeting with citizens across theprovince to discuss next year’sprovincial budget. “We will be listening to people acrossthe province to hear their views on howwe keep our economy growing, keep lifeaffordable and provide thoseopportunities that will keep our kids athome,” stated Howard. “Manitobanshave told us that they want good jobsand opportunities for our young peopleand still want us to protect the servicesthey count on the most.” Pre-budget consultations began whenthe minister met with key economicadvisors on October 20. The next stepwill be participating in town hallmeetings across the province, includingLorette on November 12 at the LoretteParish Hall. The province will also conduct anonline survey and an interactivetelephone town hall to reach a largernumber of people. The telephone formatprovides an update from the minister,as well as allowing people on the line tovote on budget priorities, ask questionsabout the upcoming budget and sharetheir ideas. To register for the telephonetown hall, contact 204-878-4644.

Anyone with an interest in quilting isencouraged to attend the ‘ThrivingTraditions by the Village Quilters’ exhibitat the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre.The exhibit, which runs from November5 to December 19 features pieces createdby a group of volunteers from theMennonite Heritage Village (MHV)called the Village Quilters. Quilting at the Mennonite HeritageVillage started out as a demonstration inthe Chortitz Housebarn during eventdays, much like spinning and pickingtoday. The simple demonstration showeditself to be a lucrative opportunity whenan ambitious special order to createquilts for a ski resort located in Whistler,BC. was received. This project calledCrazy quilts evolved into professional-quality designs and the Village Quiltersbecame an entity of its own within theMHV Auxiliary. “It’s a way for this group of skilledvolunteers to do what they love andspread the joy and warmth of thisbrilliant textile art form,” stated ShannonNeufeld, with the Steinbach Arts Council. The Village Quilters create about fiveto six quilts a year, including some madeto order, some for sale and one for a raffle.Designers, piecers, sewers and quilterswork together in this group to createstunning masterpieces ordered from allover the world.

ProvincialBudget Meeting

to be Held inLorette

QuiltingExhibit

Takes overGallery

Long Live The Rockettes

Executive Team members (L-R) Nancy Barychuck, Marilyn Johnston, Chuck Chateau, Betty Smith andDianne Delorme.

Photo courtesy of Cheryl Kennedy Courcelles, President of the St. Adolphe Rockettes

Operation Red NoseGears up for Second Year

Falk Adopts Piece ofLiberal Playbook

A grade 12 student from Niverville Collegiate hasbecome the first local athlete in our area to bedeclared Tri-Star Athlete of the Week during the2014-2015 school year. On October 1, The the Manitoba High SchoolAthletic Association announced that Lauren Wiebeof the Niverville Panthers soccer team was the TireRecycle Rural High School Athlete of the Week. Wiebe, a 5’7” striker has helped lead the Panthersto three victories and a tie in their last four games.In those four games she has scored 11 goals andwas named Player of the Game twice. “Lauren believes in community and teamwork inall she does,” said her coach Coach Gerald Negrave.“Throughout her athletics or in her role as Student

On October 3 at approximately 10:45 pm, SteinbachRCMP executed a search warrant at a residence in the400 block of Walnut Street in Steinbach. During the search, the RCMP arrested two individualsand seized marihuana and methamphetamine from theresidence. Robert McCauley, 30, of the RM of Ste. Annewas arrested and charged for Possession of Marihuanafor the purpose of trafficking and trafficking marihuana.His next court date is set for December 4, in Steinbach.The name of the second individual arrested will not berelease at this time. A warrant for the arrest of Eric Schinkel, 27, of Steinbachwas also issued for charges related to this investigation. The RCMP stated, “Those who traffic in illicit drugs

NivervilleAthlete Named

Tri-Star

Lauren Wiebe

Council President, Lauren gives ofher time and works to bring out thebest in those around her. A true teamplayer.” Despite a busy athletic schedule,Wiebe maintains a 93% average,while also participating in volleyballand badminton.

Steinbach RCMP InvestigateMarihuana Trafficking

The Manitoba Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum recently announced its 2015inductees. The inductees include outstanding players, builders and teams who have lefttheir legacy, both on and off the baseball field. This year’s roster includes eight individuals and four teams, including the SteinbachMillers (1964-1969) team. The Steinbach Millers won the La Verendrye Leaguechampionship three times together. The Manitoba Baseball Hall of Fame will hold its 19th annual induction banquet onSaturday, June 6, 2015 beginning at 5 pm, at the Morden Event Access Centre where theHall of Fame is located.

Steinbach Millers to be Inducted

destroy lives, homes and communities.The RCMP remains fully committed toenforcing laws against illicit drugs totheir fullest extent.” Anyone with information regardingdrug trafficking is asked to call their localpolice agency or RCMP detachment. If you have any information on thewhereabouts of this individual, you cancontact Steinbach RCMP in person orby phone at 204-326-4452 oranonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or by texting“TIPMAN” plus your message toCRIMES (274637).


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

BlumenortShoebox Packing – Begins Tuesday, November 4 -Thursday,November 6 at the EMC Church. Come pack your OperationChristmas Child shoebox with everything you need in onelocation. We have done the shopping for you, all you do iscome pack your box, give a donation, and have some coffeewith your family and friends. This is an easy project for peopleof all ages. Contact Debbie de Klein 204-424-5838.

East BraintreeAnnual Holiday Artisan & Craft Sale – On Saturday November29 from 11 am - 3 pm at South Moon Studio, Lot 2 Wye Road.$2 entrance fee. Shop local for the holidays this year andcelebrate our local talent. This year we will also have a kid’scraft table, live music, hot delicious food, display of local artand a live art event.

Falcon LakeWhiteshell Community Club is holding a Christmas Craft andGift Bazaar on December 6 from 10 am – 3 pm. For moreinformation please call Cheryl 204-426-5428.

Grand PointeAnnual Grande Pointe Bingo Bowl – On Friday, November 7from 9:30 pm - 12:00 am at the Dakota Bowling Lanes.

GrunthalFirefighters Fall Supper – On Friday, November 7 from 6:30pm - 9:30 pm at the Firehall 339 Main St. Contact Paul Wiebe204-346-2384, [email protected].

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

Ile-des-ChênesAnnual General Meeting Cultural Committee – On Friday,November 7 at 6 pm, followed at 6:30 by music and dance withThe Official Voyageurs from the Festival du Voyageur. Comemeet them and have a good time.

Craft Sale & Trade show - On Saturday, November 29 at theTranscanada Centre Doors from 10 am - 4 pm. Presented byKang’s Taekowndo. Cost is a non-perishable food item or $2admission - door prizes, canteen available.

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

KleefeldSanta Claus & Christmas Tree Lighting – On Saturday December6 at 5:30 – 7:30 pm at the Park & Recreation Centre.

Community Playgroup - for parents, caregivers and childrenages 0-5. Activities include time for playing, stories, songs andsnacks. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at the KleefeldRec Centre. Contact Irene Ascough 204-377-5013.

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

LandmarkHoliday Home Party Vendor & Craft Sale - On Saturday,November 22 from 10 am - 3 pm at the Kinsmen CommunityCentre by the arena, 191 Robert Koop Rd. Cash & carry itemsfrom all of our vendors & crafters! Gifts for everyone on your listincluding your pets! Contact hostesshub.com.

LoretteBook Drive & Fundraising Event - On Saturday December 6from 10 am – 4 pm at Collège Lorette Collegiate, 1082 DawsonRoad. Bibliothèque Taché Library offers a wide variety of booksat affordable prices at our giant used book sale during theChristmas Market sale. Please donate gently used books. Dropthem into specially marked crates at your child’s school. Contact204-878-9488 or [email protected].

Community Christmas Market - On Saturday, December 6 insupport of the Tache Christmas Hampers at the College LoretteCollegiate from 10 am to 4 pm. Local entertainment, silentauction and Tache Library’s first Book Sale.

Community Christmas Concert – On Sunday, December 7 at 7pm at the Notre Dame de Lorette. Featuring Seine Singers,Lorette Community Children’s Choir, Reimer Six, Youth VocalEnsemble and sing along. Cost Adults $5, K-12 $3, Preschoolersfree. Tickets at the door. Contact 204- 878-2016 [email protected].

Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) – Volunteer opportunities.If you go for walks, bike rides, jogs or even just drive aroundthe community, please put on a COPP vest and show yoursupport or help with administrative duties. Can you donate anhour per month? Contact Trevor, [email protected].

New Horizons Seniors - Play cards, Scrabble, Wii and more.Drop in Tuesdays 1-5 pm at Foyer Notre Dame Lorette 12St.Amant Ave. Contact Iris 204-878-3552.

MitchellBreakfast and Social - Every Tuesday morning, 7:30 - 9 amexcept the last Tuesday of the month when the social is heldinstead. Lunch starts at noon at the Mitchell and Area SeniorsCentre. Contact 204-326-6944.

MorrisMurder on the Menu Dinner Theatre & Chamber of CommerceAwards Ceremony - On Friday, November 14 at the MorrisMultiplex Assembly Hall, 380 Stampede Grounds. Doors openat 6 pm, show begins at 6:45 pm. Tickets $45 each or $340 pertable of eight. Cash Bar, specialty Wine Bar, 3-course mealserved in between acts. Reserve your table today. Contact 204-746-2832, [email protected].

Breakfast with Santa – On Saturday, December 6 at 9 - 11 amat the Multiplex in the Bison room. Contact 204-746-2832,[email protected].

Area Senior Services, Inc. -Helping Seniors enjoy theirindependence for as long as possible. Serving Morris, LoweFarm and Rosenort. Contact Resource Coordinator Cheryl D.Waldner, 204-746-6336, [email protected].

New BothwellWinter Craft Show – On Thursday, November 6 at the CommunityClub.

Crib Night – On Friday, November 7 from 7 – 9 pm at theCommunity Club.

NivervilleRemembrance Day - On November 11 at the Heritage Centre,at 10 am. Following the Ceremony, there will be coffee andlunch served. All are welcome.

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

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

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

PineyBingo - Every 2nd Friday at 7 pm.

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

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

RicherSeine River Services for Seniors - Program Contact JulietteRowan Community Resource Coordinator at 204-424-5575 forRicher services or email [email protected].

Richer Recovery AA - Group meets every Thursday and Saturdayfrom 7:30 - 8:30 pm at LUD Hall in Richer. Contact Lee at 204-451-0255.

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

RosenortCommunity Fun Curling Bonspiel – On Sunday, November 23,at the Arena. Register at Rosenort School: 204-746-8355. Cost$80/team Includes random prizes, Turkey draw event, Draw tothe Button event, 3 ends per game, Stick or traditional curling(instruction available. Limited Entries – 32 Team limit – Funevent for all ages. All proceeds go towards the Rosenort SchoolEastern Canada Trip Fund.

SpragueCommunity Christmas Carol Concert – On Saturday, December7 at 3 pm. at the Sprague Hall. Come help us get into the Spiritof Christmas. Lots of carol singing, local talent and a choir,lunch to follow. No cost to attend. Contact Gloria at 204-437-2739.

Bingo - Every 2nd Wednesday at 7 pm.

St. Adolphe50+ Fitness Classes - Every Monday & Friday at 9:30 – 10:30am. Focus on strength, flexibility and range of motionmovement on a variety of equipment, such as weights, stretchtubing and stability balls. Wednesdays 1 - 2 pm workout is forslow flow yoga inspired strength, flexibility, balance andrelaxation. Pre-purchase 10 classes for $40, 5 classes for $20or drop in for $5 per workout. Special deal purchase 30 classes$120 get 8 free. Instructor Janice Burnett, a certified fitnessleader. Contact [email protected].

Fitness Classes –Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 8 - 9pm at the St. Adolphe School Gym. Include cardio fitness,resistance training, flexibility and balance training. Monthlyschedule is provided. All fitness levels are welcome. Optionsare $175 - 35 x $5 per class + 5 classes free, $120 - 20 x $6per class or drop in $7 per class. Certified fitness leader JaniceBurnett. [email protected].

St. Pierre-JolysCraft Sale - On Saturday, November 8 from 10 am - 3 pm at theICSP Gym. Rainbow Auction - Turkey Shoot, 50 tables of crafts,baked goods and products. Admission $2, Children 12 andunder Free. Contact Cecile at 204-433-3202 or Val 204-433-3967.

Remembrance Day – On Tuesday, November 11 at 10:45 amat the St. Pierre Recreational Centre.

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba – Depression supportgroup meetings held on the 4th Tuesday of every month at 7pm. Located at the Health Corner DeSalaberry Hospital. ContactJudy Dunn 444-5228.

Ste. AnneThe Provencher Federal Liberal Association - Invitation to afundraising dinner in support of Terry Hayward’s preparationfor the 2015 General Election. On Sunday, November 9, at 5pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 132 Centrale Ave. Tickets$35 for regular admission and $25 for Victory Fund and YouthMembers aged 25 and under. Payment by cheque made outto the Provencher Federal Liberal Association, or online atevents.liberal.ca/Event/fundraising-dinner-with-terry-hayward. Contact 204-272-4214.

Remembrance Day Ceremony - On Tuesday, November 11 at10:30 am at Ste. Anne Catholic Church.

Christmas Craft Workshop – On Monday, November 17 from6 - 8:30 pm at the Ste. Anne Elementary/Collegiate Canteen.Learn how to make a beautifully glittered and painted Christmasornament for yourself and that someone special. For anyone,Ages 12 and over. Cost 2 for $30. Register at 204-422-6577 [email protected].

International Cooking Class - On Wednesday, November 19from 6 - 8:30 pm at the Home Ec room at the Ste. AnneCollegiate. Join us in learning to cook authentic and originalfoods from Columbia, India, Bolivia, and the Philippians. Spaceis limited. Register at 204-422-6577 [email protected].

In honor of Bibliotheque Ste. Anne Library’s 20th anniversary,we would like to announce the reopening of the library withspecial thanks to invited guests and to the members of LegionBranch 220. This event will be held at 16, rue de l’Eglise onSaturday November8 at 1 p.m. followed by coffee. Everyone iswelcome.

Computer Courses - Free at the bibliothèque Ste. Anne Library.For appointment, contact Harlee at 204-392-0568.

Paradise Village Squares Dance Club – On Tuesdays, at 7 pmat the Ste. Anne Elementary School, 177 St. Alphonse Avenue.Modern square dance lessons, casual dress, beginner dancersfree, coffee & doughnuts. Contact Laura 204-422-5873 orHenriette 204-422-6948.

Toastmasters - The Carillon Toastmaster Club and pastmembers are invited to join us to help celebrate the 35-yearmilestone on Saturday, September 20 at the Club Jovial in Ste.Anne at 4 pm. Contact Flora 204-792-7095 or Sheryl 204-326-7628.

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

Seine River Services for Seniors – Invite to all seniors interestedin the Wii Bowling game to come, try it out and have fun. OnMonday at 1 pm, at Le Club Jovial. Contact Juliette Rowan at204-424-5285 Community Resource Coordinator for localservices or e-mail [email protected].

Ste. GenevièveLibrary Night - Bibliothèque Taché Library at the CommunityCentre on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, from 6:30- 8 pm. Selection of books in both French and English, allages. Over 21,000 books including audiobooks, DVDs, CDs,large print books and magazines plus they can import booksfrom any library in Manitoba. Special requests can be made to

the librarian, Brandi Schmitz at 204-878 - 9488,bibliotachelibrary.com or in person.

SteinbachNaNoWriMo Write-in – On Saturday, November 8 from 9 am– 12 pm and Thursday, November 13 from 6 – 9 pm, Saturday,November 15 from 10 am – 3 pm, Friday, November 21 from6 – 9 pm, Saturday and November 29 from 9 am – 12 pm atthe Jake Epp Library. National Novel Writing Month - a ‘Write-in’ is a 3 hour session during which writers (both new andprofessional) can come to the library to write in a quietenvironment. The goal for NaNoWriMo is to write a novel (50,000words) in a month. Sign-up at the circulation desk in order toreceive a goody bag at Kick-off. Contact Madison FriesenProgram Coordinator 204-326-6841,[email protected].

Beyond Weddings Expo – On Saturday, November 8 from 10– 11 am at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre, Chrysler Gate.Features wedding professionals in the southeastern and almost40 local vendors. Contact Brenton Thompson 204-392-5659,[email protected].

15th Anniversary Celebration Steinbach & Area Garden Club -On Monday, November 10 at 7 pm at the Mennonite HeritageVillage featuring the award winning movie ‘DIRT’. What is it?What’s in it? Member appreciation prizes, free cake and coffee.$5 non-member admission. Contact sagardenclub.com or 204-326-2396.

Lunch and Learn Women’s Business Network – On Wednesday,November 12 from 11:30 am – 1 pm at 90 Brandt St. NancyMcNaughton, Director at Opening Doors and Sue Fitzgerald,Entrepreneur at Southeast Flower Beds will be speaking to usabout the rewards of finding work that aligns with your naturalgifts and talents. Bring your lunch along, enjoy networkingwith other members and guests, and become inspired. RSVPto Mandy Atiyolil at [email protected].

Clearspring Fall Home & Leisure Show – On Thursday,November 13 - Saturday, Nov 15 Various products and servicesfrom local, provincial, and national companies and home basedbusinesses. Thursdays and Fridays 9:30 am - 9pm and Saturday9:30 am - 6 pm. Contact Glen Bogovics 204-470-4729,[email protected].

Christmas Craft Sale & Trade Show – On Saturday, November15 at the Steinbach Mennonite Heritage Museum. Visit 30+vendors gathered to share/sell their products, toys, jewelry,health products, crafts, hand-made items, baking and more.Cost is free entry. Contact Candace Bueckert 204-434-9695,[email protected]

Healthy Eating Cooking Classes - Every other week onThursdays at South East Helping Hands. No Charge, enjoy ameal with other community members and learn how to plan& prepare healthy meals on a budget. Contact and register204-326-2599 or [email protected].

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

Ladies Get Fit Classes - Sponsored by Eastman ImmigrantServices, every Wednesday at 7:15 pm at the Woodlawn Schoolgym. Aerobic, circuit training, weights, mats and stretchingexercises. Suitable for all ages and levels of fitness. Registercontact Lois 204-346-6609.

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

Green Drinks South Eastman - South Eastman TransitionInitiative presents Green Drinks South Eastman. On the 3rdTuesday of every month at 7 pm at LBees, 5-275 Main St. Graba coffee and discuss sustainable living. [email protected].

The Steinbach Rotary Club - meets every Monday at noon atthe Pat Porter Centre for active living. Contact Cornie at 326-3155.

Mental Health Information and Support sessions - for familyand friends of people with mental health issues are held the2nd Tuesday of every month from 7 – 8:30 pm at the Eden Eastbuilding, 21 Loewen Blvd. Contact Kim at 371-0824 or [email protected]

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

MS Lunch Group- On fourth Thursday of every month, from 12– 1 pm at the Village Green Restaurant. Contact Nadine Konyk,Rural Client Services Coordinator 204-326-1434 or [email protected].

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba individual and supportgroups - for persons experiencing depression, anxiety, stress,bi-polar disorder and other mental health/emotional concerns.Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Jake EppLibrary from 7 – 9 pm. Contact Judy Dunn 204-444-5228.Information and Support Sessions

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

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

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

Steinbach Al-Anon Program - Meetings held on Wednesdaysat 7:30 pm. Steinbach United Church, 541 Main St. Ring thefront door bell.

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

WoodridgeBingo - Every 2nd Sunday night at 7 pm.

GeneralSeine River Services for Seniors - Looking to hire a youth for theCommunity Access Program in the La Broquerie, Ste. Anne andRicher regions. Includes teaching and assisting seniors withcomputers. Pay $12/hr, Term position from November - March.Approx. 18-24 hrs per week (weekdays and/or evenings, canbe flexible). Program is funded by a youth initiative. Applicantsmust be between the ages of 18-28. For more information orto apply for the position, email [email protected] orcall Juliette Rowan at 204-424-5285.

Free Monthly Bus Trips to the Casinos of Winnipeg- On Tuesdays,December 9 from 8:30 am - 7:15 pm. Join us for a great dayof fun and friendship. Visit McPhillips Street Station in themorning and Club Regent in the afternoon. Starting at 8:30 ampick-ups in Steinbach, Ste. Anne and Paradise Village. Mustbe 18 years of age or older. Prizes and cash giveaways everytrip. Bingo played on the bus to and from the casinos for thosewishing to play. Contact Marilyn at 204-326-4939 to reserveyour seat.

The community of St. Pierre-Jolysand the surrounding area are rallyingaround a five-year-old girl who livesin the community. On September 4, Sara Chubey, thedaughter of Derek and Carolle wasdiagnosed with Endocarditis, anextremely rare heart bacteriainfection. The infection damaged aheart valve, which required a flightto Edmonton for emergency open-heart surgery. Corinne Peloquin and her husbandLuc stepped forward to help thefamily financially by hosting afundraiser so the family could focuson taking care of their daughter. “Sara’s heart condition has placeda huge amount of financial strain onher family,” explained Peloquin. “Herrecovery is expected to take 2-3months, during which time herfamily will not be able to maintain anincome.” The October 18 fundraiser raised$13,000 for the family, to go towardsexpenses incurred during theemergency surgery. “We cannot express theoverwhelming gratitude we feel forour community and local business,”said the Chubeys in a statement.“We are happy to be home andcontinue to take Sara to the St. PierreHospital three times a day for an hourand a half for an antibiotictreatment.” The family is optimistic that aftersix weeks of treatment Sara will testfree of the bacteria that caused herillness. Once she recovers, the Chubeyshope to resume their new businessventure. The two couples are thenew owners of the St. Pierre Bigway.They had just taken over thebusiness and were working on theofficial grand-opening plan whenSara was diagnosed.

CommunityRallies Around

Little Girl


The St. Pierre-Jolys Recreation Board was recently presented with a cheque for $5,000from Trans-Canada Pipeline to be in the community. The cheque was presented to St.Pierre-Jolys Recreation Board President Alain Robidoux, Vice President Blair Fallis andSecretary Brian Roy by Trans-Canada Pipeline representative Steve Loney. Trans-CanadaPipeline also donated two overhead projectors for the hall in the spring.

On October 11, the St. Malo Volunteer Fire Department held an open house. During the open house, attendees were able to view a demonstration of the set of, Jaws of Lifeequipment the department recently purchased from a recent loan from the RM of De Salaberry. BSI Insurance was also on hand to give a donation of $3,000 to the department for the equipment fromtheir Because We Care initiative. The volunteer Fire Department is now looking to raise money to help pay for the remainder of thepurchase.

The fourth annual St. Malo Chamber of Commerce Volunteer RecognitionAward night was huge success. On October 25, the St. Malo Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual‘Making a Difference’ award night. As part of the evening, thirteen localvolunteers were recognized by the Chamber for their hard work anddedication to the community. The evening also included live entertainment including a performanceby Corny Rempel who entertained the crowd with his tributes to JohnnyCash and Elvis Presley. Local singers René Robidoux, Lucille Preteau-Royand Karen Preteau capped off the night with renditions of their favouritesongs.

The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC)has created ‘Bring a Friend Days’for their Arts 4 Tots (AFT)Preschool Program. The program is open to childrenages 3 - 5 and from Wednesday,November 12 – Thursday,November 13 SAC is encouragingparents to bring their child and theirchild’s friend in to check out theprogram for free. Sessions will runfrom 1 - 3:30 pm at the Cultural ArtsCentre, 304 Second Street inSteinbach. The program is unique because itteaches early childhooddevelopment through the arts withdance, theatre, music, culture andvisual arts. Professional dancers, actors,visual artists and music teachers

St. Malo HonoursDedicated Volunteers

Volunteers honoured during the evening include, front row, l to r: Irène Comeault, JanineLambert, Lucille Preteau-Roy, Thérèse Morin, Dominike Courcelles and Irène Catellier. Backrow, l to r: Maurice Comeault, Germaine LaPalme, Lynne Goulet, Julien Remillard and ErwinFroese. Missing award recipients are Jeanne Dubois and William Kuryk.

St. Malo Fire DepartmentReceive Jaws of Life

Joyce Dearborn, customer service representative at BSI Insurance St. Malo, presents a cheque of $3,000 to the St. Malo VolunteerFire Department.

Pipeline SupportsSt. Pierre-Jolys Arena

Test Drive the Arts 4 TotsPreschool Program

come in regularly to infuse andinspire learning concepts using theirmediums. They welcome culturaldiversity. Parents love their art’sfocus, indoor and outdoor lessonenvironments, and creative fieldtrips. AFT Preschool also offers newthemes each week, like ‘FourSeasons,’ ‘Celebrate Culture’ and‘All About Me.’ There are alsospecial days like ‘Hat Day,’ PyjamaDay’ and ‘Teddy Bear Picnic.’Festivities include a Christmas showand ‘Moving Up & Graduation’party. Their experienced teachers bringout the best in AFT children.Qualified staff will be in attendanceat all times to encourage and assistchildren in their creativity and

development. Their program alsoaccepts parent volunteers toparticipate in the preschool and helpcraft a creative, safe and positiveenvironment. Tots kick off the day with circletime where they participate in today’sweather, singing, ABC, 123, calendarand story time. Daily, toddlers willparticipate in dress up drama, artdiscovery, music and movement,dance, storytelling, snack time andmore. Biannual progress reports letyou know how your child is doing. Spaces are available in theArtsForTots Preschool Program. Callnow to register, check our websitefor ‘Frequently Asked Questions’and more information aboutArts4Tots – the most creative wayto learn.

dawson trail dispatch november 2014

Documents