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Yelyzaveta Datsenko moved to Dauphin from Ukraine four years ago.
She went from living in a city with more than half a million people. Dauphin's population is less than 10,000. To say it was a culture shock would be an understatement. She had to get used to a new school, make new friends, and find new things to do.
Datsenko took everything in stride. She quickly learned that Dauphin was the perfect place to be.
"I really love it here. Even though I came from a much larger city, I really like the small city vibe here," said Datsenko. "Everyone knows each other. Everyone is so friendly. Everyone is willing to help. I really like it here."
It didn't take Yelyzaveta long to find something that has become one of the most important parts of her life. She quickly joined the 50 LCol Barker VC Squadron. She joined the Squadron when she first turned 12.
She heard it was an interesting opportunity and, as they say, the rest is history.
Datsenko said the Dauphin Squadron is a tight-knit and friendly community. Everyone supports each other and she's really enjoyed meeting members of other Squadrons. Four years after first joining the 50 LCol Barker VC Squadron, big congratulations are in order for Datsenko.
She earned her glider pilot wings through the Royal Canadian Air Cadets. This summer at the Gimli Cadet Flying Training Centre, she completed her Glider Pilot scholarship. The course included intensive flight training, taking cadets from dual instruction through to solo flight.
Datsenko developed the knowledge and decision-making skills needed to handle real flying conditions safely and confidently.
She became the first pilot the Dauphin squadron has produced in several years.
"I'm very excited for that to happen. I worked really hard for them. I put a ton of effort in, hoping I would get them one day," said Datsenko. "I'm really excited to fly and build up my hours. It's really exciting, and I'm proud of myself for doing that."
Flight Sergeant Datsenko received her wings at a ceremony on August 21 in Gimli.
Five years ago, Yelyzaveta never expected to have received her pilot wings through the Royal Canadian Air Cadets. The Dauphin squadron, led by commanding officer Captain Marcus Paddock, gave her that chance. Datsenko then made it happen.
If you're interested in joining the Dauphin squadron and following in the footsteps of Yelyzaveta Datsenko, who just five years ago was living in Ukraine, she says it's well worth the journey. While it's challenging at times, if you have what it takes to work hard and put in the effort, nothing is stopping you form achieving great things.
Just look at Datsenko; she's proof.
"I believe if you have enough passion, it's never going to be a chore for you," said Datsenko. "Learning about aviation in general. You have to keep pushing. I promise you, it's going to be one of the best summers you'll ever have."
For more information on the 50 LCol Barker VC Squadron, you can visit their Facebook page.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
The Ashern Rodeo returns this weekend, bringing rodeo action and many other things, including markets and entertainment.
Rachel Postlethwaite, Ashern Ag Society President, said it'll be a packed weekend with near constant events. The Ashern Ag Society also prides itself on making sure the Rodeo is affordable for families, with the highest ticket price being $25 for full weekend access, and free for kids 6 and under.
"There's a little bit of something for everybody I would say, obviously our rodeo performance is the highlight of our weekend, but we also have a street dance for the kids on Friday evening, as well as a fireworks show which is usually pretty awesome, and then on Saturday we have the parade, we've got a pancake breakfast...it's definitely at the top of our list to try to keep it affordable for families in our area, we work really hard to get sponsors, we have a ton of absolutely amazing sponsors that help us make our rodeo affordable for the families in our area," said Postlethwaite.
This being the 34th year of the Ashern Rodeo goes to show they know how to put on a good weekend. Postlethwaite said they've seen a good trend over the past few years of more visitors from farther away, showing people are willing to make the drive to attend.
As with most Ag Societies, the Ashern Ag Society wouldn't be anywhere near as strong as it is without their volunteers. Constantly putting the Ag Society first, Postlethwaite said the Rodeo, and any of the Ag Society's other events, simply wouldn't happen without the hard work of their volunteers.
"I would say the last few years have been really great attendance, we've seen lots of people come out, we're noticing some new faces and stuff so we're getting people that are coming in from farther away, not just local people, and we're expecting the same this year...we are 100% volunteer ran, so this rodeo wouldn't happen without our amazing volunteers and the people that are willing to help out, so they are absolutely 100% instrumental in putting this weekend on," said Postlethwaite.
Postlethwaite said the team is putting finishing touches on the rodeo grounds for the weekend, and she expects everything to go off without a hitch.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
New applicants every two weeks.
The first intake is about 120 applicants. The second one is roughly 80. That's 200 applicants.
Add in children, it's between 350 and 400 people that the Dauphin & District Food Bank serve every month.
According to Manitoba Harvest, 60,000 people access food banks every month.
The demand for food banks has surged 150% since 2020. With grocery prices more expensive than ever, the local Food Bank is busier than ever.
Robin Gambler wants to thank you. Without you, the Food Bank couldn't operate.
"The generosity of Dauphin and surrounding communities," said Gambler. "They keep us going. Then we have Kraft donations, businesses that collect food or money for us. The people of Dauphin are amazing for the food bank; they really are."
The Food Bank in Dauphin is looking for donations. Some of their most wanted items include canned brown beans, canned soup, canned meat and fish, tea, sugar, rice, soda crackers, macaroni and cheese, and menstrual products.
If you have the means to donate, contact Robin at the Friendship Centre at 638-5707.
Recently, the Dauphin & District Food Bank partnered with Todd from E-Coil.
Robin then received several boxes of much-needed necessities. It's another sign of local helping local.
Gambler is extremely appreciative of Todd's support.
"Oh, it was great. He kept me posted," said Gambler. "Seeing all the cases of hygiene stuff, I was overwhelmed. It's absolutely fantastic. We appreciate it."
The Food Bank's next intake day is next Thursday. It's from 5:00 to 7:00 at 220 Whitmore Avenue East.
You must bring your Manitoba Health Card to receive food. You can receive a hamper once a month.
If you're struggling to keep up with groceries, Robin and her crew have you covered.
No one should worry about where their next meal comes from. If you need it, the Dauphin & District Food Bank is here for you.
"We don't judge. We don't ask how much money you make," said Gambler. "If you're coming there, you need it. We're here for you."
If you need more information, you can call 638-7853. Leave a message, and someone will get back to you.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Through ups and downs over the years, the script of the Countryfest Community Cinema has had a lot of moments. The latest plot twist: a new general manager, with some fresh ideas of how to revitalize the Cinema.
Angie Neely's background isn't very theatre-related. After schooling and working in healthcare and hospitality, with recent focuses on mental health and counselling, and a much quieter small town she comes from, the Countryfest Community Cinema is presenting a new challenge, one she's eager to take head-on.
"I am new to the community, I just moved out here a year and a half ago, I grew up in a small town where there was very little, but I loved it, so moving out here, it was a little more fast paced, there's a little bit more going on, and being new to the community, I wanted to get involved, and I wasn't sure how to do that," said Neely.
One of the things that surprised Neely about the Cinema is how community-driven it really is. In recent years especially, the Cinema has relied on donations and support from businesses and organizations in the community.
Going forward in her tenure as General Manager, she hopes to strengthen community supports and make partnerships with clubs and businesses, so they don't have to rely on donations as much.
"It is a non-profit, we do rely heavily on the community to keep our doors open, and donations and fundraising, and all of that beautiful stuff, I didn't realize how much of it was included, so I think that's kind of been a bit of a shock for me...I don't want to always be asking for donations, I want a partnership. I want everybody to know in the area that the community theatre is here, it's a hub, it's a beautiful community hub where so many people can go and not only make memories, we're not just movies, we have space for so many other things," said Neely.
After working in the role for two months now, Neely has seen first-hand just how important a facility like the Countryfest Community Cinema really is to the community. She also plans to expand the Cinema's role as a social space and gathering hub, making it a lot more than just a cinema.
"The movie theatre is not just watching movies, it's making memories. Whether that be with your partner, your family, your children, it's a place where everybody can go in the community and be welcome. Very inclusive, it's gonna be a warm, welcoming, beautiful place, and I want people to know they are always welcome to come down, enjoy the space," said Neely.
Neely has also taken an interest in getting involved with the community on the non-professional side, becoming involved with Dauphin Rec and other groups.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
Amber Fisher of Grandview is facing a forgery charge and more.
Fisher was scheduled to be sentenced in court on a theft charge. On August 31, Dauphin RCMP learned she submitted a doctor's note saying she was unable to attend after being seriously injured in a car crash.
The note said the collision happened on July 22.
It was given to her lawyer, who submitted the document, then it was accepted by the courts. The sentencing hearing on a theft charge was adjourned to a later date.
The RCMP later determined the note was a forgery. No reports had been made involving the suspect being in a collision on that day in Manitoba or any province.
On Tuesday, she was arrested without incident.
She also faces a charge of obstructing justice and uttering a forged document.
Fisher, who was fired in 2022, pleaded guilty to theft over $5,000 last summer. While working as CAO, she transferred more than $530,000 of the municipality's money to her bank account.
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Gerry Vermette has served and protected with the Winnipegosis Fire Department for 31 years.
He takes immense pride in what he does. When the phone rings, Gerry will be there.
"The reason why I stay on and do it is my way of giving back to the community," said Vermette. "It's a passion that I have. It's a great experience being a leader and doing things to help people out."
25 years after first joining the department, Vermette was promoted. He was named Fire Chief six years ago and has held the role since.
"It was overwhelming at first," added Vermette. "It was great. It made me feel better. Having that stronger leadership role."
The Winnipegosis Fire Department responds to everything from wildland fires to structure fires, vehicle extrication rescues, and water rescues, and they work with Stars Air Helicopter. They're also looking to expand their services.
If you've ever thought of serving and protecting, now could be the perfect time to step up. The Fire Department is actively recruiting new members. If you decide to join, Gerry says it's a fantastic way to give back.
It's rewarding, and while it comes with its fair share of challenges, it's worth it.
"It's a role that isn't for everyone. It's a role for people who have a passion to be out there helping," said Vermette. "There are many good things about it. It's not only responding to emergencies. There are the fundraising events, different training opportunities, and different socializing things we do at the Fire Department for ourselves."
All recruits will be trained to receive Level One certification through the Office of the Fire Commissioner. That's about a 200 hour process. Training from there is ongoing.
The Department has responded to 24 calls this year. Last year, they responded to 42. They currently have 15 active members. Two of those are part of the junior firefighting program.
Vermette says he's very thankful to have a crew that is always willing to go above and beyond to serve and protect.
"We have a very good crew, excellent crew," said Vermette. "Everybody is willing to drop everything to help others. Some of my members are farmers. They're willing to drop their work to come and help someone who needs it. We have a really, really good crew."
If you're interested, Gerry invites you to Department meetings. They run every second and fourth Tuesday of the month. The meetings are at the Winnipegosis Fire Hall at 136 2nd Street. They run from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
You can also reach out to them on Facebook.
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While staff and students did their best to enjoy summer despite challenges due to flooding in the Parkland region, others continued preparing for the new school year.
Students begin school next Thursday. Preparation for the new year included getting bus routes confirmed, maintenance on buses, and tech-related needs.
Custodians clean all facilities while administration staff plan for the new year.
Superintendent and CEO Suzanne Cottyn says MVSD is very excited to welcome staff and students back.
"We recognize the school year ended in a challenging way for many of our families with the flooding," said Cottyn. "The recovery process is ongoing. We really hope that with the start of the school year, students will find our schools to be welcoming spaces where they can settle into positive routines for the year."
The school year will begin with a new transportation supervisor. After 13 years in the role, Ernest Karpiak stepped away at the end of last year.
John MacKinnon is the new transportation supervisor, and he settled in nicely over the summer.
"The summer was a good time for the transition. It gave him time to get into the office, learn the role, and meet all the staff," said MacKinnon. "Speaking with him the other day, we were talking about the countdown. They're ready to go. Ready to start the year in a good way with our students."
When it comes to bus safety, there are several ways to stay safe. Never approach the bus until it has come to a complete stop and the doors are open. Keep your distance. Take five steps back from the road while waiting for the bus to arrive.
Never cross behind the bus; always cross in front. Make sure the driver notices you before crossing. If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver before picking it up. When on the bus, sit down facing forward.
Hold bags and backpacks in your lap so others don't trip. Never put your head, hands, or objects out the windows. Also remove headphones when approaching or crossing roads and listen for traffic.
Cottyn believes MVSD is a great place for students to learn and grow because they're proactive. They think innovatively and offer flexible programming.
With summer less structured for most, here are some tips to get ready for what's ahead. It's important to get rest and be mentally prepared. Cottyn knows many students will be excited to come back and reconnect with friends and staff.
She realized some will have worries, whether they're entering a new school or grade.
Cottyn challenges all students to think about one thing they're looking forward to this year.
"And also, there are lots of staff ready to welcome them and support them," said Cottyn. "I encourage any students or parents who have concerns to reach out early and regularly to the school and classroom teacher. Ask those questions. That way we can have that really good home and school partnership throughout the year."
MVSD has about 3,100 students.
There are around 250 teachers. They have about 150 educational assistants.
Cottyn says the staff comes to do their best on behalf of the students every day.
"I've seen their hearts towards our students and how much they care," added Cottyn. "The extra time they'll put in. I see all of our staff going that extra mile many times to show their care and concerns for students. Really see them and speak up on their behalf. We have many staff who will advocate on behalf of students."
Late last month, the Manitoba government introduced a pilot program for a new health and physical education curriculum. Premier Wab Kinew said every student in Manitoba, from kindergarten through grade 12, will have gym class in-person.
Kinew said the government will change gym so it works for everyone.
It's as much about the kid who thinks working out is no joke as the kid who cracks a joke to skip a turn. Kinew said if a student doesn't want to get changed for gym class, then let's not make them.
This is already in place in some of Mountain View School Division's schools. Space is a key factor. Staffing is another.
"We know the curriculum needed to be revamped. We are looking forward to seeing what that will look like," said Cottyn. "Looking at how we may implement that for our students."
School is right around the corner, and MVSD is ready for a great year.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
A 39-year-old female is dead and a 34-year-old man is recovering from his injuries.
On Monday at 9:55 p.m., Swan River RCMP responded to a collision between an all-terrain vehicle and two pedestrians on the Wuskwi Sipihk First Nation. The two pedestrians were walking in the community on Porcupine Bay.
They were hit from behind by a 21-year-old who was driving the ATV.
Emergency services performed lifesaving measures. However, the female died of her injuries. The male was taken to the hospital with multiple non-life-threatening injuries.
The 21-year-old was arrested outside his home, not far from the collision, while standing near the ATV. It was seized and impounded. He was released from custody on conditions.
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A nine-year-old is dead after a rollover on Monday evening.
At 5:15 on Monday, Dauphin RCMP responded to the rollover involving a utility terrain vehicle outside of a home in the RM of Dauphin.
A 40-year-old man was driving the UTV with his daughter.
The vehicle turned while on the property towards the home when it rolled. The girl suffered significant injuries.
Lifesaving measures were attempted, but they were unsuccessful. The child passed away.
The father was sent to the hospital in Winnipeg with non-life-threatening injuries.
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According to the latest Manitoba Agriculture Crop Report, the Northwest region is 3% complete harvest, while the provincial average is at 11%.
In the Northwest, most of the progress is attributed to 80% harvest completion in winter wheat and fall rye, though other crops have greatly progressed over the past week. Spring wheat and barley harvest is 5% complete in the region, while field pea harvest is up to 15% complete.
Weather was mostly good, leading to crop advancements across the board, though the end of the week brought heavy rainfall in parts of the region. Notably, San Clara weather stations received 71.6mm on Sunday.
Pre-harvest glyphosate applications continue in spring wheat, and desiccation of field peas continues as stages are reached. Desiccation and swathing of canola also continues, with the majority of the crop ranging in stages, from flower/podding to mature, and fields that experienced excess moisture still have patches of delayed growth.
The majority of field peas are now in the R7 stage, and harvest is underway where crops have reached maturity. Yields are reported as lower than average so far. Most soybeans are in the R6 stage and looking good in areas that didn't have excess moisture earlier in the year.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
The Bank of Canada announced earlier this morning they are holding their key interest rate at 2.25%, for the seventh consecutive decision. The last time the interest rate was held steady for seven straight decisions was from September 2023 to April 2024.
The Bank cited a slight rise in inflation to 3% in July after international pressures brought volatility to fuel prices as one reason to hold the rate. They also commented on United States tariffs and Canadian counter-tariffs, and the recent breakdown in trade talks, saying both situations are fluid.
Canada's economy strengthened in Q2 of this year, with the Bank citing a raise in GDP by 3.3%, after notably weak growth in the first quarter.
"With the economy and inflation evolving broadly as forecast in the July MPR, Governing Council agreed to leave the policy rate unchanged. However, the upside risks to inflation have increased, while new tariffs make growth prospects more uncertain," read part of the Bank's interest rate decision.
They also said the Bank of Canada remains committed to maintaining Canadians' confidence in price stability, despite global uncertainty.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
